bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALYSIS OF THE SEXUAL VARIABILITY IN THE SHELL OF THE SPANISH UPPER CRETACEOUS TURTLE DORTOKA VASCONICA (PAN-PLEURODIRA, DORTOKIDAE)
Authors: Guerrero Andrea , Pérez-García Adán
Published: July 2021

The present study characterizes the morphological variability related to the sexual dimorphism in the shells of the Spanish Upper Cretaceous turtle Dortoka vasconica. This study is based on the material from its type locality: Laño, Burgos. Two morphotypes were identified there based on the posterior plastral area as well as two for the anterior plastral lobe. However, a correlation with the previously indicated morphotypes could not be established due to the disarticulation of the specimens and the limited information available on the sexual dimorphism of Pleurodira. The morphological variability previously identified for Dortoka vasconica is analysed here through a quantitative approach to evaluate the role that sexual dimorphism plays in the plastron. Comparative material of the main extinct and extant groups of pleurodires is included in this study. The results evidenced a noticeable sexual dimorphism in the anal notch of Dortoka vasconica. Likewise, the comparison of species belonging to several pleurodiran clades shows a wide range of variability in the direction and magnitude of the sexual dimorphism. Thus, a single evolutionary trend cannot be recognized, so that previous assumptions about which morphotype corresponds to each sexual dimorph in some extinct taxa and especially lineages (including basal pan-pleurodires) cannot be confirmed.
Mesenchymal stem cell- mediated immunomodulation and the potential therapeutic application in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Hawwash Nadin Kamal
Published: July 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are self-renewing stromal cells that possess a multipotent differentiation capacity as they can differentiate into numerous cell types such as adipose, bone and cartilage cells. MSCs have generated considerable interest for their remarkable tissue-reparative and immunomodulatory properties whereby MSCs can develop into functional cells at the injury site and control the body’s response to tissue damage respectively. Consequently, MSCs have vast therapeutic potential in treating Crohn’s disease (CD) which is a lifelong inflammatory bowel disease where tissue damage to a section of the gastrointestinaltract occurs. The review aims to discuss the properties of MSCs and explore their potential application in treating CD. This review highlights the tissue-reparative properties of MSCs and specifically focuses on the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs. Results from clinical trials regarding the efficacy and safety of MSCs have been promising, proving that MSCs could potentially be used to treat CD.
The incidence and management of postoperative cystoid macular oedema: a retrospective audit
Authors: Pasunuru Nikitha
Published: July 2021

No abstract
Audit of the Aetiological Investigations Performed in Children with Sensorineural Hearing Loss At Salford
Authors: AlHajeri Saud K , Iqbal Dr Mohammed
Published: July 2021

Objective: This project aims to look at the Audiovestibular Physician’s practice at Salford and how closely it aligns with the gold standard guidelines set in the protocol lately published by the British Association of Audiological Physicians. Method: An audit was done retrospectively on 20 patients suffering from sensorineural hearing loss. As such, patient notes were utilised to ascertain which aetiological investigations have been completed and which were not. Any inadequacy in the aetiological work up has been dissected to help know the underlying reasons. Results: All patients had a thorough history taken and were comprehensively physically examined. 95% of patients underwent imaging in the form of MRI/CT. 80% received CMV testing. 75% underwent ECG testing. 60% received family hearing tests. Only 35% had ophthalmology examinations and 25% underwent urine and genetic testing. Conclusion: In some cases, the low compliance rates were due to the Audiovestibular Physician not ordering the investigation as part of the aetiological work up. This could be improved with the use of a dedicated checklist to act as an aid to the physician. Moreover, genetic counselling has been proposed to attempt to boost the compliance rates with genetic testing and similarly, leaflets briefing patients’ families about the importance of undergoing hearing tests themselves is another promising proposition to help improve the adherence
Soluble Fas ligand drives autoantibody-induced arthritis by binding to DR5/TRAIL-R2
Authors: Jeong Dongjin , Kim Hye Sung , Kim Hye Young , Kang Min Jueng , Jung Hyeryeon , Oh Yumi , Kim Donghyun , Koh Jaemoon , Cho Sung-Yup , Jeon Yoon Kyung , Lee Eun Bong , Lee Seung Hyo , Shin Eui-Cheol , Kim Ho Min , Yi Eugene C , Chung Doo Hyun
Published: July 2021

To date, no study has demonstrated that soluble Fas ligand (sFasL)-mediated inflammation is regulated via interaction with Fas in vivo. We found that FasL interacts specifically with tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF)10B, also known as death receptor (DR)5. Autoantibody-induced arthritis (AIA) was attenuated in FasL (Faslgld/gld)- and soluble FasL (FaslΔs/Δs)-deficient mice, but not in Fas (Faslpr/lprandFas–/–)- or membrane FasL (FaslΔm/Δm)-deficient mice, suggesting sFasL promotes inflammation by binding to a Fas-independent receptor. Affinity purification mass spectrometry analysis using human (h) fibroblast-like synovial cells (FLSCs) identified DR5 as one of several proteins that could be the elusive Fas-independent FasL receptor. Subsequent cellular and biochemical analyses revealed that DR5 interacted specifically with recombinant FasL–Fc protein, although the strength of this interaction was approximately 60-fold lower than the affinity between TRAIL and DR5. A microarray assay using joint tissues from mice with arthritis implied that the chemokine CX3CL1 may play an important downstream role of the interaction. The interaction enhancedCx3cl1transcription and increased sCX3CL1 production in FLSCs, possibly in an NF-κB-dependent manner. Moreover, the sFasL–DR5 interaction-mediated CX3CL1–CX3CR1 axis initiated and amplified inflammation by enhancing inflammatory cell influx and aggravating inflammation via secondary chemokine production. Blockade of FasL or CX3CR1 attenuated AIA. Therefore, the sFasL–DR5 interaction promotes inflammation and is a potential therapeutic target.
Dynamics of primitive streak regression controls the fate of neuromesodermal progenitors in the chicken embryo
Authors: Guillot Charlene , Djeffal Yannis , Michaut Arthur , Rabe Brian , Pourquié Olivier
Published: July 2021

In classical descriptions of vertebrate development, the segregation of the three embryonic germ layers completes by the end of gastrulation. Body formation then proceeds in a head to tail fashion by progressive deposition of lineage-committed progenitors during regression of the primitive streak (PS) and tail bud (TB). The identification by retrospective clonal analysis of a population of neuromesodermal progenitors (NMPs) contributing to both musculoskeletal precursors (paraxial mesoderm) and spinal cord during axis formation challenged these notions. However, classical fate mapping studies of the PS region in amniotes have so far failed to provide direct evidence for such bipotential cells at the single-cell level. Here, using lineage tracing and single-cell RNA sequencing in the chicken embryo, we identify a resident cell population of the anterior PS epiblast, which contributes to neural and mesodermal lineages in trunk and tail. These cells initially behave as monopotent progenitors as classically described and only acquire a bipotential fate later, in more posterior regions. We show that NMPs exhibit a conserved transcriptomic signature during axis elongation but lose their epithelial characteristicsin the TB. Posterior to anterior gradients of convergence speed and ingression along the PS lead to asymmetric exhaustion of PS mesodermal precursor territories. Through limited ingression and increased proliferation, NMPs are maintained and amplified as a cell population which constitute the main progenitors in the TB. Together, our studies provide a novel understanding of the PS and TB contribution through the NMPs to the formation of the body of amniote embryos.
Insula to mPFC reciprocal connectivity differentially underlies novel taste neophobic response and learning in mice
Authors: Kayyal Haneen , Chandran Sailendrakumar Kolatt , Yiannakas Adonis , Gould Nathaniel , Khamaisy Mohammad , Rosenblum Kobi
Published: July 2021

To survive in an ever-changing environment, animals must detect and learn salient information. The anterior insular cortex (aIC) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) are heavily implicated in salience and novelty processing, and specifically, the processing of taste sensory information. Here, we examined the role of aIC-mPFC reciprocal connectivity in novel taste neophobia and memory formation, in mice. Using pERK and neuronal intrinsic properties as markers for neuronal activation, and retrograde AAV (rAAV) constructs for connectivity, we demonstrate a correlation between aIC-mPFC activity and novel taste experience. Furthermore, by expressing inhibitory chemogenetic receptors in these projections, we show that aIC-to-mPFC activity is necessary for both taste neophobia and its attenuation. However, activity within mPFC-to-aIC projections is essential only for the neophobic reaction but not for the learning process. These results provide an insight into the cortical circuitry needed to detect, react to- and learn salient stimuli, a process critically involved in psychiatric disorders.
High expression of PIMREG predicts poor survival outcomes and is correlated with immune infiltrates in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jiang Feng , Liang Min , Huang Xiaolu , Shi Wenjing , Wang Yumin
Published: July 2021

Background

PIMREG is upregulated in multiple cancer types. However, the potential role of PIMREG in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unclear. The present study aimed to explore its clinical significance in LUAD.

Methods

Using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases, we obtained 513 samples of LUAD and 59 normal samples from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases to analyze the relationship between PIMREG and LUAD. We used t and Chi-square tests to evaluate the level of expression of PIMREG and its clinical implication in LUAD. The prognostic value of PIMREG in LUAD was identified through the Kaplan–Meier method, Cox regression analysis, and nomogram. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) were performed to screen biological pathways and analyze the correlation of the immune infiltrating level with the expression of PIMREG in LUAD.

Results

PIMREG was highly expressed in patients with LUAD. Specifically, the level of PIMREG gradually increased from pathological stage I to IV. Further, we validated the higher expression of PIMREG expressed in LUAD cell lines. Moreover, PIMREG had a high diagnostic value, with an -AUC of 0.955. Kaplan–Meier survival and Cox regression analyses revealed that the high expression of PIMREG was independently associated with poor clinical outcomes. In our prognostic nomogram, the expression of PIMREG implied a significant prognostic value. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) identified that the high expression PIMREG phenotype was involved in the mitotic cell cycle, mRNA splicing, DNA repair, Rho GTPase signaling, TP53 transcriptional regulation, and translation pathways. Next, we also explored the correlation of PIMREG and tumor-immune interactions and found a negative correlation between PIMREG and the immune infiltrating level of T cells, macrophages, B cells, dendritic cells (DCs) , and CD8+ T cells in LUAD.

Conclusions

High levels of PIMREG correlated with poor prognosis and immune infiltrates in LUAD.
Weight-dependent susceptibility of tilapia to tilapia lake virus infection
Authors: Roy Sri Rajiv Kumar , Yamkasem Jidapa , Tattiyapong Puntanat , Surachetpong Win
Published: July 2021

The emergence of tilapia lake virus (TiLV) has had a severely negative impact on global tilapia aquaculture. TiLV infection has been reported at different life stages of tilapia, with more emphasis on fry and fingerlings; however, the virulence and pathology of TiLV at different tilapia size remains unexplored. In this study, tilapias from a single spawning were raised to 5 g, 25 g, and 65 g, and subsequently challenged by the intraperitoneal injection and cohabitation of a virulent strain of TiLV. The cumulative mortality, viral load, and histopathology of the fish were determined until 22 days post-infection (dpi). The cumulative mortality of the 5 g, 25 g, and 65 g fish was 85% (±1.67), 55% (±2.89), and 51.67% (±7.49), respectively. At 14 dpi, the mean TiLV load in the liver of the 5 g fish was significantly higher than in the 25 g and 65 g fish. All the weight groups showed severe pathological changes in the liver, spleen, and intestine after TiLV infection, but no particular difference was otherwise noted during the study with the exception of higher pathological scores in the liver of the small fish at 14 dpi. Overall, this study indicated that small fish are more susceptible to TiLV infection than large fish. Although multiple factors, including environmental factors, farm management practices, strains of virus could contribute to different susceptibility of fish to viral infection, the present study provides the evidence to support that fish weight affects the mortality and clinical outcome during TiLV infection. More intensive measures such as strict biosecurity and disease surveillance during the susceptible weight should therefore be emphasized to reduce the impact of this virus.
A Review of Leadership: Different Leadership Theories and Styles Relevant to Education Leadership
Authors: Perera Poorna , Witharana Thanuja , Withanage Prabath
Published: July 2021

This academic investigation on education leadership theories and styles sought to investigate the effect of different leadership styles practicing in educational organizations and their impact on overall performance of the organization. A summarized overview of the meaning of leadership is followed by an elaborated enquiry on different leadership theories and styles. This study followed a qualitative research approaches where secondary research data from previously published research articles will be integrated and interpreted. This article validates that identification and application of proper leadership theory and style is crucial in educational organization success. Knowledge on range of effective leadership approach offers the prospect to further refine the existing school leadership by accepting and employing the basic principles and styles of those. Based on the available reliable literature, this theoretical study concludes that understanding the most suitable leadership style or the combination of leadership styles is crucial in achieving common goal attainment which is ultimately result in organizational/ school overall success.
Prevalence Rate of Vibrio cholerae and other Vibrio Species Isolated from Stool Samples in Andoni Community of Rivers State
Authors: Azike C. A. , Agi V. N. , Nwokah E. G. , Wachukwu C. K. , Chukwuemeka D. T.
Published: July 2021

This study aims at determining the prevalence of Vibrio cholerae among the people of Andoni Local Government. One hundred stool samples were collected after administering well-structured questionnaire and were analysed with standard microbiological techniques which includes; macroscopy, microscopy, culture on thiosulphate-citrate-bile salts-sucrose agar, Gram staining and biochemical tests (indole, motility, catalase and oxidase tests). Results showed a prevalence of 30% of Vibrio cholerae. Vibrio parahaemolyticus was also isolated with a prevalence rate of 42%. Among the predisposing factors, the prevalence rate of vibrio species based on demographic data showed positive with 77.8% of those tested within the age range 11-15years, 80% of those tested within the age range 16-20years while 6-10years and 26-30years had 0%. Among the sexes, 78.2% of the females and 64.4% of males tested were positive. In the religion category, 75.8% positive among Christians tested and 33.3% among other religious groups tested. Based on educational qualification, the primary students 42.9% of those tested were positive, 85.2% for secondary and 0% among tertiary students. Among the occupational status, 83.3 of those doing business, 20% of civil servants, 73.3% of self-employed and 75% of students were positive among each category tested. Based on the different communities, 100% of those from Ajakajak, 100% from Apahia, 100% of those from Dema, 71.4% of those from Ibotirem, 66.7% of those from Udung-Ama and 0% of those from Ngo were positive among each category tested. Most of the cholera infection observed were because of a bad water source and contaminated sea food consumption
Why Recessive Lethal Alleles Have Not Disappeared?
Authors: Jormakka Jorma , Ghosh Sourangshu
Published: July 2021

The article derives the probability for lethal recessive alleles in the case of recessive disadvantage or advantage. It is shown that recessive advantage of a lethal gene can be detected by the ratio of heterozygotes and homozygotes. This demonstrates that higher IQ of certain ethnic groups cannot be explained by recessive advantage of lethal genes. The article shows that lethal genes can survive in the population if some lineages of families have much more children than the average.
Protective effect of Boysenberry Juice on Ferric Nitrilotriacetate-induced Renal Injury in Mice
Authors: Hashimoto Takashi , Kiyota Maki , Kanazawa Kazuki
Published: July 2021

Boysenberry (Rubus loganbaccus × baileyanus Britt.) is one of the popular berries in Western countries. In the present study, the effect of the boysenberry juice on ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe-NTA)-induced renal injury was investigated. ICR mice (7 weeks old, male) were ad libitum administered boysenberry juice for 1 week, and were intraperitoneally injected Fe-NTA (5 mg Fe/kg body weight) as an oxidant to renal. The consumption of boysenberry juice suppressed the Fe-NTA-increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in kidney and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). These results indicate that the consumption of boysenberry juice reduces the risk of oxidative stress.
Screening of Salt Tolerant Potato Genotypes using Salt Stress and Molecular Markers
Authors: Mawa Mir Jannatul , Haque Md. Ashraful , Saikat Mohammad Mehfuz Hasan , Islam Shah Mohammad Naimul
Published: July 2021

Aims: To screen potato genotypes for salt tolerance using in vitro salt stress and moleulcar markers.

Experimental Design: The experiment was arranged in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications.

Place of the Study: The experiment was conducted at the Molecular Biology and Tissue Culture Laboratories, Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, Bangladesh.

Methodology: In vitro screening of five potato genotypes (CIP 112, CIP 117, CIP 120, CIP 127, and CIP 128) was done in an agar medium using tissue culture technique at different concentrations of salt viz. 0.0, 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 120 mM of NaCl. All genotypes were further analysed through SSR markers using three primers. The DNA bands were visualized on gel electrophoresis and scored for polymorphic loci, gene diversity, and genetic distance. NTSYSpc program was used for constructing  unrooted neighbor-joining tree and scatter diagram.

Results: Potato genotypes CIP 112 and CIP 117 emerged as the most salt tolerant genotypes with the highest plant height, shoot dry weight, root length, and root dry weight at different concentrations of NaCl. CIP 127 and CIP 128 were poorly tolerant to salt stress. The most sensitive genotype CIP 120 produced minimum plant height, shoot dry weight, root length, and root dry weight at different NaCl concentrations. Results indicated that significant differences were found among cultivars. The banding pattern of microsatellite confirmed a distinct polymorphism among salt tolerant, moderately salt tolerant and salt sensitive lines. The clustering pattern of the potato genotypes suggests that variations occur due to genotypic variation and possibly not epigenetic adaptation under salt stress conditions.

Conclusion: The salt tolerant pototo genotypes CIP 112 and CIP 117 can be used for developing salt tolerant genotypes.
Knowledge and Practice of Food Hygiene among Food Vendors in Selected Primary Schools within Sokoto Metropolis
Authors: Isah Balarabe A. , Musa Yahaya , Bello Malami M. , Danmadami Abdauaziz M. , Yunusa Edzu. U
Published: July 2021

Aims: This study aims to assess the knowledge and practice of food hygiene among food vendors in primary schools within Sokoto metropolis.

Study Design:  A cross-sectional descriptive study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Sokoto metropolis, Northwest Nigeria between June and December 2020.

Methodology: Eighty-seven food handlers were selected from 11 randomly selected primary schools that met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected via the use of interviewer administered questionnaire and observation checklist.  and was analyzed using statistical package for social scientists (SPSS) version 23. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and frequencies of the various variables were tabulated.

Results: Eighty-seven (87) food handlers with mean age of 31.95 ± 15.12 years were enrolled, out of this, 93.1% were females and only 6.9% were males. Ninety-two percent of the respondents had good knowledge of food hygiene while 78.2% had good practice and 79.3% had good level of neatness. There was no statistically significant association between the knowledge of food hygiene and any of the socio-demographic characteristics of respondents. However, there was statistically significant association between the practice of food hygiene and age category (p-value=0.001) as well as marital status of the respondents (p-value=0.001). There was also statistical significance between the level of neatness of the food handlers and age category (p-value= 0.001), marital status (p-value 0.001) and educational status (p-value 0.001).

Conclusion: Food handlers in primary schools within Sokoto metropolis generally have good knowledge of food hygiene but this was not reflected in their hygiene practices. It is recommended that a massive health education directed at both the general public and food handlers should be provided in such a way that it enables people take necessary steps towards preventing foodborne illnesses.
Some Geometric Properties of a Non-Strict Eight Dimensional Walker Manifold
Authors: Longwap Silas , Bitrus Gukat G. , Chigozie Chibuisi
Published: July 2021

An 8 dimensional Walker manifold (M; g) is a strict walker manifold if we can choose a coordinate system fx1; x2; x3; x4; x5; x6; x7; x8g on (M,g) such that any function f on the manfold (M,g), f(x1; x2; x3; x4; x5; x6; x7; x8) = f(x5; x6; x7; x8): In this work, we dene a Non-strict eight dimensional walker manifold as the one that we can choose the coordinate system such that for any f in (M; g); f(x1; x2; x3; x4; x5; x6; x7; x8) = f(x1; x2; x3; x4): We derive cononical form of the Levi-Civita connection, curvature operator, (0; 4)-curvature tansor, the Ricci tensor, Weyl tensorand study some of the properties associated with the class of Non-strict 8 dimensionalWalker manifold. We investigate the Einstein property and establish a theorem for the metric to be locally conformally at.
Consumer Vs Producer Misperception: The Case of French Wine
Authors: Pavlovskaia Elena Fauquet-Alekhine- , Alekhine Philippe Fauquet-
Published: July 2021

Aims: The study aimed at assessing the similarities and the differences between French wine producers’ perception of Belarusian consumers and the actual behavior of Belarusian consumers.

Study design:  Questionnaires filled in individually were used to compare consumers and producers’ perception. The questionnaire was made up of general questions addressing socio-demographic data, the kind of beverage preferred, the frequency of consumption of wine, the type of wine preferred, the origin of the wine preferred (producer country), the price and the criteria for purchasing wine. The aim was to get to know their profiles, their habits regarding purchasing and consuming alcohol and more specifically wine.

Place and Duration of Study: Consumer survey was undertaken in 2018 in Belarus and producers survey was undertaken in 2019 in France.

Methodology: Subjects were all volunteers. Belarussian consumer subjects were healthy (especially no addiction to alcohol, no food disorders) and adult. French participants were experienced producers or novices separated in two sub-samples. Comparison between answers used t-test and z-test.

Results: Producers have a correct representation of the type of wine sought by Belarusian consumers and of the criteria to select it but misperceive who shop for wine and how it is consumed. In addition, French producers imagine their wine to be preferred while it is this of Moldavia.

Conclusion: This may lead the producers to offer the wrong product for the wrong consumer target and contribute to explain why French wines only ranked fourth regarding importation of wine in Belarus while France is the world's leading wine exporter. This also suggests that the teaching program in French wine schools might be adapted.
How Corporate Social Responsibility Can Buffer the Unfavorable Outcomes of the Brand in Crisis: A Mediation Role of Corporate Hypocrisy and Gratitude in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alrayees Nouf , Alhidari Abdullah
Published: July 2021

Aims: The paper aims to clarify the conceptual relationship among CSR, corporate hypocrisy, gratitude, satisfaction with corporate COVID19 response, eWOM, and crisis resiliency. It proposes modelling the influence of CSR in the COVID19 pandemic in buffering customers’ negative behavior via the firm being honest and customers being more appreciative. The study aims to expand the domain of CSR in crises by the mediation effect of the psychological mechanisms: corporate hypocrisy and gratitude on satisfaction with corporate COVID19 response. This study also attempts torede fine CSR incrises. Study design: The paper opted for a conceptual paper based on the situational crisis situation ‘SCCT’ theory and the reciprocity cycle of customer gratitude. Results: The paper provides conceptual insights about how CSR can mitigate customers’ negative behavior or increase their positive behaviors. It suggests that the SCCT theory and the reciprocity cycle of customer gratitude can theoretically explicate the relationships among CSR, corporate hypocrisy, gratitude, satisfaction with corporate COVID19 response, eWOM, and crisis resilience.

Conclusion: This research presents a theoretical explanation on how CSR can mitigate the negative consequences from firms being hypocritic or expand the positive outcomes from customers’ being more grateful during the COVID19 in Saudi Arabia in the telecommunication industry. This paper explains how CSR can buffer the negative effects of crises. Finally, the authors have redefined CSR in difficult situations.
Geoelectrical and Physicochemical Evaluation of Soil Corrosivity on Metallic Pipelines: A Case Study
Authors: Akinlabi Ismaila Abiodun , Olaiya Moshood Lekan
Published: July 2021

Geoelectrical sounding and physicochemical analyses were conducted on the topsoil underlying Osupa area in Ogbomoso, south western Nigeria to evaluate the soil corrosivity on the metallic water pipelines across the area. Schlumberger electrical resistivity soundings were conducted at 24 stations with electrode spacing varied from 1 to 100 m. The resistivity data were interpreted by using partial curve matching and computer-aided 1D inversion. Physicochemical analyses were also conducted on soil samples collected from about 1 m depth in test pits dug at points coincident with the sounding stations, following the BS/AWWA/ANSI Standards for Corrosivity testing to determine the soil pH, redox potential, moisture content and chloride content. The soil corrosivity was evaluated based on soil resistivity alone and the combined effect of soil pH and resistivity. The studied soils have resistivity ranging from 10 Ωm to 492 Ωm and thickness varying from 0.5 m to 4.6 m. The pH, moisture content, redox potential and chloride content range from 4.22 to 8.41, 14.33% to 29.09%, +50 mV to +97 mV and 102 ppm to 196 ppm respectively. The corrosivity intensity, based on the combined effect of soil pH and resistivity is essentially Medium-to- Medium-High being Medium at 10 locations, Medium-High at 8 locations, and High, Medium-Low, and Low at 2 locations each. More reliable information can be obtained about soil corrosivity toward buried metallic structures if the combined effect of the soil parameters affecting soil corrosion is considered.
Levothyroxine Administration Timing in Hypothyroidism Patients
Authors: Albalawi Mohammed Saleh Daher , Alharbi Shoog Mohsen R. , Albalawi Reem Hammad M. , Alasmari Khaled Abdullah S. , Alatawi Nada Sulaiman E. , Alatwi Thamer Awad , Altemani Marwan Fahad H. , Alahmadi Lina Saleh S. , Basmih Abeer Abdulrhman , Sayis Asmaa Ali Z. , Filmban Doaa Mohammad S. , Alzahrani Ahmed Abdullah Y.
Published: July 2021

Levothyroxine is a synthetic T4 hormone that is biochemically and physiologically identical to the natural hormone, and it is used when the body is deficient in the natural hormone. This study was conducted to summarize the current evidence that compare evidence supporting morning dose to evening dose of levothyroxine in patients with hypothyroidism‎. A simple systematic review was carried out, searching databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and EBSCO. The authors extracted the needed data. There is conflicting data regarding effectiveness of morning dose versus evening dose in management of levothyroxine. More studies reported effectiveness of bedtime dose more than breakfast dose in hypothyroidism management. Numerous studies reported effectiveness of bedtime dose more than breakfast dose in hypothyroidism management. The most resent evidences recommended that, if possible, L‐T4 be consistently taken either 60 minutes before breakfast or at bedtime (3 or more hours after the evening meal), for optimal, consistent absorption.
Preventive Measures to Conquest COVID-19: A Mini-review
Authors: Sawarkar Gaurav , Sawarkar Punam
Published: July 2021

Ayurveda is the bunch of blooms having multiple spectrums to prevent health and immune to fight with present and future trends of viruses. The principles of Ayurveda make life span extensive and healthy. COVID-19 is the todays crisis situation, world wide people are in dread to respiratory disease symptoms as primary indicators of corona virus. So, Ayurveda literature have the various remedies to strengthening respiratory system with preventive measures like Pranayama, Yoga, Meditation, Good sleep, Diet, Lifestyle and Medication. Prevention is the need of the time to fight with COVID-19 because there is no treatment and vaccines till date.
An Analysis of Arches of Foot: A Comparison between Ink Foot Print Method and Custom Made Podoscope Device Method
Authors: Vijayakumar K. , Subramanian Rameshkumar , Senthilkumar S. , Dineshkumar D.
Published: July 2021

The present study aimed to assess the validity of the podoscopic images compared with ink footprint methods (comparing the two different methods using the same parameters). Objective: The evaluation of the reliability and accuracy of arch angle (AA) is the purpose of this paper's study. It includes Chippaux-Smirak Index (CSI), Staheli Index (SI), and Arch Index (AI) by comparing footprints obtained from ink footprint and custom-made podoscopic footprints. Methods: Measurements of AA, CSI, SI, and AI are obtained from ink footprints and custom-made podoscope among 416 healthy participants (aged 21 to 65). Accuracy and reliability were calculated for all the footprint indices obtained using the two methods. Minimal detectable change and the Standard error (SE) of measurement were also calculated. Results: SPSS Statistical software (version 20) at 95% confidence interval was used to execute and observe the statistical analysis. Descriptive analysis was used to calculate the Mean and standard deviations (SD). The intrarater reliability of ink footprints and podoscopic footprints were analyzed using Intraclass correlation (IC) executed at 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Reliability of the podoscopic method was interpreted when the values (≥0.75) as excellent, (0.4-0.74) as moderate, and (0-0.39) as poor. Our study reported that AA, CSI, SI, and AI obtained from the ink footprints and podoscope had high intrarater reliability and reproducible. The podoscope was designed in a lightweight manner for transportation purposes and utilized in under-served and rural areas. This custom-made device may be utilized in orthopedics, and it can also be used to collect data and for diagnostic purposes.
Phase Engineering of Atomically Thin Perovskite Oxide for Highly Active Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Li Qun , Wu Jiabin , Wu Tao , Jin Hongrun , Zhang Nian , Li Jia , Liang Wenxi , Liu Meilin , Huang Liang , Zhou Jun
Published: July 2021

Ultrathin perovskite oxides with tailored crystal structures are promising catalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) owing to their high intrinsic catalytic activity and large exposed active surface area. However, the synthesis of phase‐controllable perovskite oxide nanosheets with thickness down to a few nanometers remains a challenge since the formation of a perovskite phase often requires long‐time calcination at high temperatures. Here, a salt‐templated strategy for fabrication of atomically thin perovskite oxide of LaMnO3 with tailored phase structure for highly active OER catalysts is reported. The orthorhombic structure of LaMnO3 nanosheets demonstrates much higher electrochemical activity than the tetragonal or hexagonal phase and the benchmark IrO2 catalyst, exhibiting extremely small onset overpotential (≈70 mV) and a low overpotential (≈324 mV at 10 mA ) in alkaline solution. The remarkable OER activity of this catalyst is attributed to the desired surface binding energetics (or the unique electronic structures) inherent to the orthorhombic phase, as predicted by density functional theory calculations and confirmed by experimental measurements. Further, it is believed that this study paves a new path toward rational the design of perovskite oxide nanosheets with desired phase structures for many applications.
Universal Platform for Scalable Semiconductor‐Superconductor Nanowire Networks
Authors: Jung Jason , Op het Veld Roy L. M. , Benoist Rik , van der Molen Orson A. H. , Manders Carlo , Verheijen Marcel A. , Bakkers Erik P. A. M.
Published: July 2021

Semiconductor‐superconductor hybrids are commonly used in research on topological quantum computation. Traditionally, top‐down approaches involving dry or wet etching are used to define the device geometry. These often aggressive processes risk causing damage to material surfaces, giving rise to scattering sites particularly problematic for quantum applications. Here, a method that maintains the flexibility and scalability of selective area grown nanowire networks while omitting the necessity of etching to create hybrid segments is proposed. Instead, it takes advantage of directional growth methods and uses bottom‐up grown indium phosphide (InP) structures as shadowing objects to obtain selective metal deposition. The ability to lithographically define the position and area of these objects and to grow a predefined height ensures precise control of the shadowed region. The approach by growing indium antimonide nanowire networks with well‐defined aluminium and lead (Pb) islands is demonstrated. Cross‐section cuts of the nanowires reveal a sharp, oxide‐free interface between semiconductor and superconductor. By growing InP structures on both sides of in‐plane nanowires, a combination of platinum and Pb can independently be shadow deposited, enabling a scalable and reproducible in situ device fabrication. The semiconductor‐superconductor nanostructures resulting from this approach are at the forefront of material development for Majorana based experiments.
Robust and High Photoluminescence in WS2 Monolayer through In Situ Defect Engineering
Authors: Cui Qilong , Luo Ziyu , Cui Qirui , Zhu Wen , Shou Hongwei , Wu Chuanqiang , Liu Zhanfeng , Lin Yunxiang , Zhang Pengjun , Wei Shiqiang , Yang Hongxin , Chen Shuangming , Pan Anlian , Song Li
Published: July 2021

The photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) grown transition‐metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) films is often much lower than their mechanically exfoliated counterparts, making the coexistence of large‐area and high PLQY in TMDs monolayer a huge challenge. Here, an in situ defect engineering strategy is reported to fundamentally dilutes the impact of intrinsic sulfur vacancy on tungsten disulfide (WS2) monolayer. By ingeniously incorporating oxygen atoms in the sulfur vacancy sites of WS2 lattice via the CVD method, oxygen doped WS2 monolayer exhibits remarkably improved optical properties. The PLQY is uniformly enhanced by nearly two orders and can reach up to 9.3%, which is even higher than mechanically exfoliated counterparts. Besides, strong W‐O bonds endow materials with superior environment stability, and the high PLQY could persist with an endurance of up to 3 months under ambient conditions without any protection. More in‐depth insights from the first‐principle calculations illustrate that the enhancement mechanism is the synthetic action of the suppression of nonradiative recombination and conversion from trion to neutral, and the excellent stability arises from repaired saturated coordination bonds at sulfur vacancy sites. This method opens up more possibilities for both fundamental exciton physics and optoelectronics applications.
Formation of 3D Self‐Organized Neuron‐Glial Interface Derived from Neural Stem Cells via Mechano‐Electrical Stimulation
Authors: Tai Youyi , Ico Gerardo , Low Karen , Liu Junze , Jariwala Tanvi , Garcia‐Viramontes David , Lee Kyu Hwan , Myung Nosang V. , Park B. Hyle , Nam Jin
Published: July 2021

Due to dissimilarities in genetics and metabolism, current animal models cannot accurately depict human neurological diseases. To develop patient‐specific in vitro neural models, a functional material‐based technology that offers multi‐potent stimuli for enhanced neural tissue development is devised. An electrospun piezoelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF‐TrFE)) nanofibrous scaffold is systematically optimized to maximize its piezoelectric properties while accommodating the cellular behaviors of neural stem cells. Hydro‐acoustic actuation is elegantly utilized to remotely activate the piezoelectric effect of P(VDF‐TrFE) scaffolds in a physiologically‐safe manner for the generation of cell‐relevant electric potentials. This mechano‐electrical stimulation, which arose from the deflection of the scaffold and its consequent generation of electric charges on the scaffold surface under hydro‐acoustic actuation, induces the multi‐phenotypic differentiation of neural stem cells simultaneously toward neuronal, oligodendrocytic, and astrocytic phenotypes. As compared to the traditional biochemically‐mediated differentiation, the 3D neuron‐glial interface induced by the mechano‐electrical stimulation results in enhanced interactions among cellular components, leading to superior neural connectivity and functionality. These results demonstrate the potential of piezoelectric material‐based technology for developing functional neural tissues in vitro via effective neural stem cell modulation with multi‐faceted regenerative stimuli.
Intrinsic Electron Localization of Metastable MoS2 Boosts Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction to Ammonia
Authors: Lin Gaoxin , Ju Qiangjian , Guo Xiaowei , Zhao Wei , Adimi Samira , Ye Jinyu , Bi Qingyuan , Wang Jiacheng , Yang Minghui , Huang Fuqiang
Published: July 2021

The advancement of efficient electrocatalysts toward the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is critical in sustainable ammonia synthesis under ambient pressure and temperature. Manipulating the electronic configuration of electrocatalysts is particularly vital to form metal–nitrogen (MN) bonds during the NRR through regulating the active electronic states of sites. Here, in sharp contrast to stable 2H MoS2 without metal chains, MoMo bonding in metastable polymorphs of MoS2 bulk (zigzag chain in the 1T′ phase and diamond chain in the 1T″′ phase) is discovered to significantly increase intrinsic electron localization around the metal chains. This can enhance the charge transfer from the adsorbed nitrogen molecule to the metal chains, allowing for boosted NRR kinetics. The electrochemical experiments show that the NH3 yield rate and the faradaic efficiency of the metastable 1T″′ MoS2 rich with abundant Mo–Mo bonds are about 9 and 12 times above average than those of 2H MoS2, correspondingly. Theoretical simulations reveal the high local electron density surrounding the MoMo chains and sites can promote π back‐donation, which is beneficial for increasing nitrogen adsorption, strengthening the MN bonds, and reducing the cleavage barrier of the triple NN bond.
Sandwich‐Like Encapsulation of a Highly Luminescent Copper(I) Complex
Authors: Matejdes Marián , Stöter Matthias , Czerwieniec Rafał , Leitl Markus , Rosenfeldt Sabine , Schumacher Thorsten , Albert Jonas , Lippitz Markus , Yersin Hartmut , Breu Josef
Published: July 2021

A small molecular weight cationic copper(I) complex showing high luminescence quantum yield based on a thermally activated delayed fluorescence mechanism is immobilized between two 1 nm thin silicate layers. Partial ion exchange of the emitter into a synthetic layered silicate (fluorohectorite) yields an ordered heterostructure with two types of strictly alternating interlayers: a monolayer of the cationic emitter and a monolayer of hydrated Na+ cations. Osmotic swelling of the latter produces dispersions of double‐stacks in which the emitter monolayer is encapsulated between two silicate layers. The electrostatic attraction of the emitter interlayer with the oppositely charged silicate layers exerts electrostatic pressure on the emitter. Compared to crystalline salt, rigid confinement for the encapsulated emitter provides improved thermal stability and increased emission quantum yield at ambient temperature. The suspension of delaminated, micrometer‐sized double‐stacks of 3.9 nm thickness allows for easy solution processing of low‐cost optoelectronic devices, such as light‐emitting electrochemical cells and organic light‐emitting diodes.
Luminogens Based on Cyano‐Substituted Anthracene Isomers: Different Molecular Packing and Distinct Piezochromic Properties
Authors: Li Jinyu , Gao Lei , Lu Tong , Feng Zijun , Jiang Dongyan , Du Chunya , Wang Kai , Lu Ping , Zou Bo
Published: July 2021

Pure organic materials with piezochromic property have been intensively studied in recent years. Many examples describe response to both mechanical grinding and hydrostatic pressure, but the examples in realizing high color contrast as well as high sensitivity, especially under high external pressure, are very rare which hampers their practical applications as pressure sensors. Herein, two anthracene‐based structural isomers, NDHA‐p and NDHA‐m, are developed applying 9,10‐bis(diphenylmethylene)‐9,10‐dihydroanthracene (DHA) as the basic skeleton and substituted by four cyano groups on para‐ or meta‐positions of the periphery benzene rings, respectively. In high‐pressure experiment, as compared to the NDHA‐m which shows a color contrast of 60 nm and a sensitivity of 7.87 nm·GPa‐1, NDHA‐p exhibits a dramatically larger color contrast of 138 nm and higher sensitivity of 13.20 nm·GPa‐1, whose performance is among the best pure organic piezochromic materials so far. The systematical experimental and theoretical analyses indicate that NDHA‐p possesses a lower crystal density, relatively looser molecular packing mode, and higher degree of electronic communications than NDHA‐m, which are responsible for the excellent piezochromic performance. This design method will open a new avenue for controlling the molecular packing configuration of luminescent materials via structural isomerization, and further extending their applications.
Understanding the Fundamentals of Microporosity Upgrading in Zeolites: Increasing Diffusion and Catalytic Performances
Authors: Qin Zhengxing , Zeng Shu , Melinte Georgian , Bučko Tomáš , Badawi Michael , Shen Yanfeng , Gilson Jean‐Pierre , Ersen Ovidiu , Wei Yingxu , Liu Zhongmin , Liu Xinmei , Yan Zifeng , Xu Shutao , Valtchev Valentin , Mintova Svetlana
Published: July 2021

Hierarchical zeolites are regarded as promising catalysts due to their well‐developed porosity, increased accessible surface area, and minimal diffusion constraints. Thus far, the focus has been on the creation of mesopores in zeolites, however, little is known about a microporosity upgrading and its effect on the diffusion and catalytic performance. Here the authors show that the “birth” of mesopore formation in faujasite (FAU) type zeolite starts by removing framework T atoms from the sodalite (SOD) cages followed by propagation throughout the crystals. This is evidenced by following the diffusion of xenon (Xe) in the mesoporous FAU zeolite prepared by unbiased leaching with NH4F in comparison to the pristine FAU zeolite. A new diffusion pathway for the Xe in the mesoporous zeolite is proposed. Xenon first penetrates through the opened SOD cages and then diffuses to supercages of the mesoporous zeolite. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate that Xe diffusion between SOD cage and supercage occurs only in hierarchical FAU structure with defect‐contained six‐member‐ring separating these two types of cages. The catalytic performance of the mesoporous FAU zeolite further indicates that the upgraded microporosity facilitates the intracrystalline molecular traffic and increases the catalytic performance.
Molecular markers and GGE biplot analysis for selecting higher‐yield and drought‐tolerant maize hybrids
Authors: Sedhom Sedhom A. , El‐Badawy Mahmoud El. M. , Hosary Ahmed A. A. El , Abd El‐Latif Mahmoud S. , Rady Asmaa M. S. , Moustafa Mahmoud M. A. , Mohamed Shereen A. , Badr Omnia A. M. , Abo‐Marzoka Sayed A. , Baiumy Khaled A. , El‐Nahas Marwa M.
Published: July 2021

Improving maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes for higher productivity and tolerance to drought stress depends mainly on physiological and molecular markers. Therefore, this study aims at breeding maize for drought tolerance and high potentiality by selection based on molecular markers, photosynthetic parameters; and easy graphic methods that help in selecting elite genotypes across diverse environments. An 8 × 8 half diallel analysis was used at two locations involving drought and normal irrigation treatments to study parental genetic diversity (GD) and combining ability (general combing ability [GCA] and specific combining ability [SCA]) in F1 of maize. Fingerprinting of parents was made using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Fifty‐eight alleles were ranged from two to five alleles per locus with an average of 0.63 alleles per locus. The average of polymorphic information content (PIC) was 0.63. Cuvette temperature (oc) was lowest by the cross L14 × L36. The cross L8 × L34 expresses the highest value for Quantum sensor (μmol m–2 s–1), net CO2 assimilation rate and chlorophyll content. As for leaf diffusive resistance (LDR) four crosses exhibited significant desirable LDR values. Concerning rate of leaf transpiration (LTR) (μg cm−2 S−1) the cross (L5 × L104) gave the lowest value. Most hybrids exhibited desirable values for drought susceptibility index. For grain yield plant–1, five F1 crosses, that is, L5 × L34, L8 × L14, L8 × L14, L30 × L104, and L36 × L104 expressed the most desirable SCA effects. These crosses are promising in maize breeding programs. Based on GGE biplot analysis, genotype nos. 8 and 10 exhibited the highest grain yield plant−1 and ranked the first across all environments.