bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Cannabis sativa Leaves from Nigeria on the Antioxidants Markers in Albino Wistar Rats
Authors: Umoren E. B. , Wopara I. , Adebayo O. G. , Ezike U. A. , Obembe A. O.
Published: November 2020

Background: Cannabis sativa is an annual herbaceous plant in the Cannabis genus. The cannabis plant is widely regarded as a potent psychoactive, medicinal plant. Reportedly used for recreation and as intoxicant. The medical uses of the plant include effective control and management of chronic health problems such as HIV/AIDs, cancer, cachexia, nausea and vomiting, asthma and hypertension. C. sativa is known to possess antioxidative properties. This study therefore investigated the effects of C. sativa on antioxidant concentrations in albino Wistar rats.

Materials and Methods: Thirty (30) rats used for this study were divided into three groups of 10 rats each. Group 1 received distilled water and served as control. Group 2 received C. sativa extract (100 ml/Kg body weight) by gavage and served as low dose group. Group 3 received C. sativa (250 ml/Kg body weight) by gavage and served as high dose group once daily for 28 days.

Results: Catalase (CAT) concentration was significantly lower (P<0.05) in the low dose group as compared with control. In the high dose group, CAT concentration was significantly lower (P<0.05) when compared with the low and control groups respectively. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and Superoxide dismutase (SOD) concentrations were significantly higher (P<0.05) in the low dose group as compared with their respective control. GPx and SOD concentrations were significantly higher (P<0.05) in the high dose groups as compared to low dose and control groups respectively.

Conclusion: CAT concentration decreased dose-dependently, while GPx and SOD concentrations increased dose-dependently among treated groups. Treatment with C. sativa revealed a paradoxical effect on CAT concentration with respect to GPx and SOD concentrations. Therefore, oral ingestion of ethanolic extract of C. sativa may not have significant effect on the body’s antioxidant stores due to the balance created for CAT deficiency by increased GPx and SOD concentrations.
Influence of Integrated Weed Management and Tillage Methods on Soil Physical and Chemical Properties in Maize Production
Authors: Michael G. C. , Gisilanbe S. A. , Dania S. O. , Manthy A. D. , Fagbola O.
Published: November 2020

A two year field experiments were conducted at the College of Agriculture Teaching and Research Farm,   Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria, to evaluate the integrated use of 25% rates of  selected herbicides mixtures (atrazine-pendimethalin (AP1) or primextra (PX1) and cover crops (a vegetable cowpea, "Akidi" (A), Melon (M) and Sweet potato (S) planted sole or mixed at 20,000 stands/ha (1) or 40,000 stands/ha (3) under manual (MT) and tractor tillage (TT) methods used primarily for weed control on soil properties and maize production. The experimental design was a split plot arrangement in a randomized complete block design replicated three times. Tractor Tillage (TT) and Manual Tillage (MT) were the main treatments. The sub treatments included ten integrated weed management (IWM), AP1AI, AP1AS1, AP1S3, AP1MS3, AP1AMS3, PX1A1, PX1AS1, PX1S3, PX1MS3, PX1AMS3 in addition to Weeded 3+6 Weeks After Planting (WAP) (C1) and unweeded(C2) as controls. Descriptive statistics and Analysis of Variance were used to analyze data and the treatment means were compared using standard error at 5%. The level of Na, organic carbon, TN, %clay and %fine sand were higher in MT than TT during the experimental period while Mg, pH, %silt and clay were higher in TT than in MT. Herbicide groups did not significantly influenced soil properties in this study. The Ca2+, K+ and A-VP in all IWM treated plots were higher than the value in C2 . Treatments having Akidi (A1, AS1, AMS3) recorded higher OC than those without (S3, MS3). Therefore, MT improves soil condition and should be used in small scale farming and where TT is used, special consideration of soil type and frequency of use should be moderated. Use of IWM ameliorates fertility losses observed, with preference for mixture with at least a leguminous component.
Study on Optimization of Yeast Level and Duration for Aerobic and Anaerobic Fermentation for Production of Jack Fruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.) Wine
Authors: Anil S. K. , Gidagiri Praveen , Hamsa R. , Jholgikar Praveen
Published: November 2020

The present investigation on Optimization of yeast level and duration for aerobic and anaerobic fermentationfor production of jack fruit (Artocarpus heterophllyus L.) wine was carried out in the department of Post Harvest Technology, Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture (University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot), Arabhavi, during the year 2010-2011. It consisting of different treatments viz T1 –20 g of yeast for 100 Kg of must+24 hrs aerobic and 7 days anaerobic fermentation, T2-30 g of yeast for 100 Kg of must+24 hrs aerobic and 7 days anaerobic fermentation, T3–20 g of yeast for 100 Kg of must+24 hrs aerobic and 14 days anaerobic fermentation, T4 –30 g of yeast for 100 Kg of must+24 hrs aerobic and 14 days anaerobic fermentation, T5 –20 g of yeast for 100 Kg of must+48 hrs aerobic and 7 days anaerobic fermentation, T6 –30 g of yeast for 100 Kg of must+48 hrs aerobic and 7 days anaerobic fermentation, T7 –20 g of yeast for 100 Kg of must+48 hrs aerobic and 14 days anaerobic fermentation and T8 –30 g of yeast for 100 Kg of must+48 hrs aerobic and 14 days anaerobic fermentation. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with three replications. The main objective was to standardize the optimum yeast level and duration required for aerobic and anaerobic fermentation and also to study various biochemical and organoleptic quality of wine recorded at regular interval during the storage of wine. The highest TSS was maintained in treatment T1 (10.47) and T4 (10.47) in cold condition and in ambient condition T1 (10.43) followed by T2 (10.35) shows highest TSS. The pH value increases from 3.36 (fresh wine) to 3.89 (6 MAS in cold) and 3.84 (6 MAS in ambient) and acidity will decrease from 0.59 to 0.49 (Cold) and 0.52 (ambient). Alcohol content increase from 7.46 to 8.12 percent (Cold) and 8.04 (Ambient). Tannin per cent were showed non significant difference and decreasing trend can be seemed over period of aging, T8 (30 g of yeast + 48 hrs aerobic and 14 days of anaerobic fermentation) observe the highest per cent of tannins throughout the investigation.
Correlation between Central Corneal Thickness and Degree of Myopia among Malaysian Patients Undergoing Laser Keratorefractive Surgery
Authors: Reddy Sagili Chandrasekhara , Shariff Mohd Mansor , Dasrilsyah Aina Malindri
Published: November 2020

Purpose: To determine the central corneal thickness in myopic adult patients scheduled for laser corneal refractive surgery and to explore its correlation with degree of refractive error.

Materials and Methods: The case records of 130 myopic patients who underwent laser corneal refractive surgery in a military hospital over a period of two years were reviewed to determine the central corneal thickness. All patients had 6/6 vision with best correction, and did not have any other anterior segment or fundus diseases in both eyes. The central corneal thickness was measured with Visante Carl Zeiss anterior segment optical coherence tomography instrument.                                                                                                                       

Results: Out of 130 patients, males were more (73, 56.2%); mean age of patients was 33.8 years (range 18-60 years) and majority were Malays (110, 84.6%).  The spherical power of myopia ranged from – 0.5 to – 10.00 D, and the cylindrical power ranged from – 0.25 to – 3.25 D. The mean central corneal thickness of both eyes was 528.2 µm (range 331- 615 µm); in the mild degree of myopia (- 0.50 to - 2.00 D) 527.9 µm, moderate degree (- 2.25 to -5.00 D) 529.4 µm, and high degree (-5.25 to -11.00 D) 523.9 µm.

Conclusion: The anterior segment optical coherence tomography provides noncontact, rapid, pachymetry mapping of the corneal thickness. In Malaysian patients, the mean central corneal thickness of both eyes in myopia was 528.1 µm (range 331- 615 µm). There was no correlation between the mean central corneal thickness and degree of myopia, different genders, age groups, ethnic groups and two eyes.
Developing Models for African Tertiary Education’s Response to COVID-19 Pandemic and Other Emergencies: Adapting Existing Systems, Infrastructure and Practices for Online Teaching
Authors: Owolabi Joshua , Ames Matt , Anthony Kiuna , Muhire Clement , Mojaddam Erfan , Bekele Abebe
Published: November 2020

It is very important to address the need to adapt the existing structure to meet the demands of the emergency situation that has been placed on tertiary institutions globally and with specific emphasis on the African institutions. In the face of the emergency situations such as the one that has been created by the global pandemic covid-19; it is impractical to start building de novo systems to address this challenge. Hence, the practical and logical response to these will simply be to reposition the existing systems in ways that they can be used to achieve optimal results. This paper is an attempt to provide guidance and models for African tertiary institutions in the ongoing attempts to achieve such adaptations with optimum results. One of the realities and effects of the covid-19 is implementation of the social distancing policy and practices in many countries of the world, consequently many schools have either started running virtually or planning to do the same. What this would imply for many African institutions whose curricula are conventional and significantly premised on learning theories that make use of contact instructional methods such as lectures, seminars, group discussions and demonstrations among others would be confronted with the need to transition to the online virtual environment which has a different approach to teaching and learning. There will also be a need to align the new methods of teaching to the learning theories that support the curriculum. Since it would be impractical to develop new curricula immediately, the new methods would rather have to be aligned with the existing curricula. This has to be most properly done as there is the tendency to create misalignment between curricular philosophies and implementation and this would most likely influence the learning and program outcomes. Adaptation is therefore very crucial. Furthermore, while the current scenario has been caused by the covid-19 this guide, the currently proposed models and methods might be useful and applicable in other emergency situations. In order to achieve effective adaptation, we believe that four major factors should be given critical consideration. These include: [1]. Pedagogies and Resources [2]. Instructional Design Adaptation for Online Teaching [3]. Infrastructure: LMS, ICT, System and Connectivity [4]. Implementation and sustainability. This article provides guidance and models for proper adaptations in light of these.
Societal Expectations and Well-being of Academics: Views from University Lecturers in Ghana
Authors: Ofori Dudley W. , Bell Jo
Published: November 2020

Background: The study aimed to investigate how societal expectation on educational accomplishments can affect workplace well-being of university lecturers. University education is seen by society as the highest level of educational accomplishment in a person’s life and people with such accomplishments are often held in higher esteem by society. In Ghana, this expectation puts pressure on lecturers who are known to have attained higher educational accomplishments.

Methods: The study used a qualitative research approach to solicit views from 18 public university lecturers in Ghana. Interpretative Phenomenology Approach (IPA) for data analysis was used to interpret the opinions of lecturers about what society expects of them, how that affects their well-being at work and shifts that are needed to address those expectations.

Results: The study found that society indeed expects a lot from university lecturers (core university functions and other cultural and economic issues). Societal expectations have both positive and negative effects on the well-being of lecturers. Findings show that respect that lecturers receive from society provides leverage for positive well-being, while financial pressures placed on them tend to create emotional stresses which impact negatively on their well-being.

Conclusion: To our knowledge, this study is the first of its kind to examine the experiences of well-being amongst university academics in Ghana. Results suggest that how the role of university academics is perceived by society can create pressures which affect their well-being negatively. This study highlights the importance of these findings and their impact on well-being. It shows that societal expectations are linked to sociocultural beliefs and economic factors in a developing country context. The authors recommend a mind-set shift amongst society and academics to bring expectations from both sides closer together; through education; engaging community talks on the pressures of societal expectations and demands to create awareness, and observing cultural beliefs that impact the understanding of well-being issues. These initiatives could potentially reduce the pressure of unrealistic expectations on academics and other “knowledge workers”.
‘Tuesday Morning’, the schoolboy and Mann
Authors: Finlay Nyree , Duffy Paul , Wright Dene , Maldonado Adrián , Cerón-Carrasco Ruby
Published: November 2020

The rediscovery of human remains, correspondence and other unpublished excavation archival material in the Glasgow Museums collection of Ludovic McLellan Mann prompted the reappraisal of a short archaeological investigation undertaken in April 1931 at Holm Park, near Ballantrae, Ayrshire, by a schoolboy, Eric French and his biology teacher, William Hoyland. This article offers a re-evaluation of their fieldwork which exposed two inhumation burials, named ‘Tuesday Morning’ and ‘Tuesday Afternoon’. Eight dog whelk shells remain from an overlying diffuse shell midden spread that may reflect the remnants of a dye-processing site. The skeletons and marine shells went on temporary display at Bryanston School, Dorset. The area south of Ballantrae is well known for prehistoric flint scatter sites and the finds presented the intriguing possibility that the burials might be Mesolithic in age, the excavators believing they might even be Palaeolithic. A collection of flint cores, initially associated with the archive, now appears unrelated to this excavation for it was found with a note written by a local lithic collector, William Edgar. New osteological analysis confirmed the presence of at least two adult individuals, and one bone sample returned an early medieval radiocarbon date. This evidence contributes to national understandings of early historic burial practices in unenclosed cemeteries during the transition from Iron Age pagan to Christian burial rites, important given the paucity of 1st millennium evidence in south-west Scotland. It also offers insight into an earlier account of multiple inhumation burials, found in the general vicinity in 1879, although aspects of the precise location and relationship between the two discoveries is currently unresolved. Mann’s correspondence with French’s father, a prominent Glasgow industrialist, and with Hoyland reveals the character of archaeological social networks in western Scotland during the 1930s which have been a neglected aspect of research to date.

Canmore ID 60957

Canmore ID 60935

Canmore ID 275902
New dates for enclosed sites in north-east Scotland
Authors: Noble Gordon , O'Driscoll James , MacIver Cathy , Masson-MacLean Edouard , Sveinbjarnarson Oskar
Published: November 2020

This article presents the results of a programme of investigation into the enclosed settlements/forts and promontory forts of north-east Scotland, undertaken as part of the Northern Picts project. Reconnaissance excavations are reported on for nine sites: Crathie Point and Durn Hill, northern Aberdeenshire (Banffshire); Barmkyn of North Keig, Hill of Keir, Hill of Christ’s Kirk and Cnoc Cailliche (Wheedlemont), central Aberdeenshire; and Doune of Relugas, Knock of Alves and Wester Tulloch, Moray. Targeted excavation was undertaken at all examples and in the majority of cases produced a basic chronology for key phases of occupation/enclosure at the sites in question. Thirty-two new radiocarbon dates are presented, with a number of sites producing Iron Age dates, but a smaller number also revealing early medieval phases of occupation and use.

Canmore ID 17947

Canmore ID 17973

Canmore ID 17701

Canmore ID 19341

Canmore ID 18141

Canmore ID 17215

Canmore ID 15755

Canmore ID 16214

Canmore ID 15766
The promises and challenges of early non‐small cell lung cancer detection: patient perceptions, low‐dose CT screening, bronchoscopy and biomarkers
Authors: Kalinke Lukas , Thakrar Ricky , Janes Sam M.
Published: November 2020

Lung cancer survival statistics are sobering with survival ranking among the poorest of all cancers despite the addition of targeted therapies and immunotherapies. However, improvements in tools for early detection hold promise. The Nederlands–Leuvens Longkanker Screenings Onderzoek (NELSON) trial recently corroborated the findings from the previous National Lung Screening Trial low‐dose Computerised Tomography (NLST) screening trial in reducing lung cancer mortality. Biomarker research and development is increasing at pace as the molecular life histories of lung cancers become further unravelled. Low‐dose CT screening (LDCT) is effective but targets only those at the highest risk and is burdensome on healthcare. An optimally designed CT screening programme at best will only detect a low proportion of overall lung cancers as only those at very high‐risk meet screening criteria. Biomarkers that help risk stratify suitable patients for LDCT screening, and those that assist in determining which LDCT detected nodules are likely to represent malignant disease are needed. Some biomarkers have been proposed as standalone lung cancer diagnosis tools. Bronchoscopy technology is improving, with better capacity to identify and obtain samples from early lung cancers. Clinicians need to be aware of each early lung cancer detection method’s inherent limitations. We anticipate that the future of early lung cancer diagnosis will involve a synergistic, multimodal approach, combining several early detection methods.
Work Productivity and Economic Burden of Systemic Sclerosis in a Multiethnic Asian Population
Authors: Xiang Ling , Kua Sandra M. Y. , Low Andrea H. L.
Published: November 2020

Objective

To assess work productivity, identify associated factors and evaluate the economic burden of systemic sclerosis (SSc) in a multiethnic Asian population.

Methods

Data on employment status and work productivity loss were collected. Associations between demographic and disease characteristics and unemployment status, work productivity loss, and activity impairment were examined using logistic and linear regression analyses, as appropriate. Costs of unemployment and work productivity loss were estimated using the human capital approach.

Results

Of 111 patients with a mean disease duration of 9.1 years, 33 (29.7%) were unemployed. Their mean age at unemployment was 44.2 years, equating to 22.8 years of lost employment. No demographic and disease characteristics were significantly associated with unemployment status in multivariable analysis. Of 73 employed patients, 39 (53.4%) reported work productivity loss, accounting for 45.9% of the working week. The presence of hyperlipidemia (coefficient –19.01, P = 0.03) was associated with work productivity loss in multivariable analysis. In total, 37 of 78 employed patients (47.4%) and 19 of 33 unemployed patients (57.6%) reported activity impairment, accounting for 42.2% and 50.0%, respectively, of the preceding week. The presence of hyperlipidemia (coefficient –18.56, P < 0.01) was associated with activity impairment in multivariable analysis. Annual cost of unemployment and work productivity loss were estimated to be $53,244 and $13,045 (Singapore dollar) per patient, respectively.

Conclusion

SSc imposes significant unemployment and work productivity loss and causes a substantial economic burden to both affected individuals and society. Modifying the identified factors associated with unemployment and work productivity loss may reduce the burden of SSc.
Functionalized Mesoporous Photonic Crystal Film for Ultrasensitive Visual Detection and Effective Removal of Mercury (II) Ions in Water
Authors: Kou Donghui , Ma Wei , Zhang Shufen
Published: November 2020

Mercury ion (Hg2+) contamination is a worldwide serious environment problem; exploring smart sensing and adsorption materials are urgently demanded for Hg2+ monitoring and removal. Herein, a simple 1D photonic crystal to first ever feature capabilities of visually quantitative determination and effective adsorption toward Hg2+ is facilely constructed by integrating a specifically designed thiourea‐functionalized nanocopolymer layer with a mesoporous TiO2 layer. Based on strong chelation and porous structure, Hg2+ is easily adsorbed on the copolymer and triggers vertically volumetric shrinkage, resulting in highlighted wavelength blue‐shifts and color changes in a broad Hg2+ level scope. Utilizing the adsorption characteristic, Hg2+ existing in aqueous media can be effectively removed by the photonic film with a remarkable uptake capacity of 739.6 mg g−1. This portable nanolayered film exhibits full regeneration, facile recovery, desirable selectivity toward Hg2+, and shields interference from other metal ions, which enables future application for environmental determination and remediation. Furthermore, a novel nanopolymer‐based two‐regime Hg2+‐capturing mechanism is first revealed by quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring, providing valuable references for future relevant adsorption researches.
Through‐Space CBr···π Halogen Interaction: Efficient Modulation of Reaction‐Based Photochromism and Photoluminescence at Crystalline States for Irradiation Time‐Dependent Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Zhou Zhibiao , Liu Qing , Chen Xian , Xu Gaoqiang , Wang Shuodong , Tu Yujie , Zhang Jia , Zheng Xiaoyan , Xiang Jiannan , Feng Xing , Zhang Yang , Xie Sheng , Zeng Zebing , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: November 2020

Reaction‐based photo‐responsive molecular systems have been used as a reliable platform for building intelligent materials, but often suffer from high inactivity in terms of conversion efficiency and reversibility when it comes to solid‐state applications. Herein, a class of Spiro‐conjugated diphenylindene (DPI) aggregation‐induced emission materials that exhibit solid‐state photocyclization‐based photochromism and photoluminescence, achieved by manipulating through‐space CBr···π halogen interactions is reported. In the crystalline state, the Spiro bridge enables a pair of perpendicularly configured CBr···π interactions that suppress photoluminescence while activating a highly reversible (>10 000 cycles) and efficient photochromism based on photocyclization. After breaking this intermolecular CBr···π interaction, for example, by grinding, the solid‐state photochromic properties are sensitively de‐activated. In addition, this spontaneously reversible photochromism behavior gives a controllable decolorization time (from a few seconds to a few minutes), depending on the light exposure conditions, while displaying a luminescence change. In a proof‐of‐principle study, these photo‐function features demonstrate an attractive potential for novel anti‐counterfeiting applications. This work reveals the efficient regulation of CBr···π halogen interactions for spatial molecular packing, molecular electronic transitions, and chemical transformations, paving the way for the development of solid‐state intelligent materials with good reversibility.
Tailored Mesoporous Inorganic Biomaterials: Assembly, Functionalization, and Drug Delivery Engineering
Authors: Zou Yidong , Huang Biaotong , Cao Liehu , Deng Yonghui , Su Jiacan
Published: November 2020

Infectious or immune diseases have caused serious threat to human health due to their complexity and specificity, and emerging drug delivery systems (DDSs) have evolved into the most promising therapeutic strategy for drug‐targeted therapy. Various mesoporous biomaterials are exploited and applied as efficient nanocarriers to loading drugs by virtue of their large surface area, high porosity, and prominent biocompatibility. Nanosized mesoporous nanocarriers show great potential in biomedical research, and it has become the research hotspot in the interdisciplinary field. Herein, recent progress and assembly mechanisms on mesoporous inorganic biomaterials (e.g., silica, carbon, metal oxide) are summarized systematically, and typical functionalization methods (i.e., hybridization, polymerization, and doping) for nanocarriers are also discussed in depth. Particularly, structure–activity relationship and the effect of physicochemical parameters of mesoporous biomaterials, including morphologies (e.g., hollow, core–shell), pore textures (e.g., pore size, pore volume), and surface features (e.g., roughness and hydrophilic/hydrophobic) in DDS application are overviewed and elucidated in detail. As one of the important development directions, advanced stimuli‐responsive DDSs (e.g., pH, temperature, redox, ultrasound, light, magnetic field) are highlighted. Finally, the prospect of mesoporous biomaterials in disease therapeutics is stated, and it will open a new spring for the development of mesoporous nanocarriers.
The Art of Constructing Black Phosphorus Nanosheet Based Heterostructures: From 2D to 3D
Authors: Thurakkal Shameel , Feldstein David , Perea‐Causín Raül , Malic Ermin , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: November 2020

Assembling different kinds of 2D nanosheets into heterostructures presents a promising way of designing novel artificial materials with new and improved functionalities by combining the unique properties of each component. In the past few years, black phosphorus nanosheets (BPNSs) have been recognized as a highly feasible 2D material with outstanding electronic properties, a tunable bandgap, and strong in‐plane anisotropy, highlighting their suitability as a material for constructing heterostructures. In this study, recent progress in the construction of BPNS‐based heterostructures ranging from 2D hybrid structures to 3D networks is discussed, emphasizing the different types of interactions (covalent or noncovalent) between individual layers. The preparation methods, optical and electronic properties, and various applications of these heterostructures—including electronic and optoelectronic devices, energy storage devices, photocatalysis and electrocatalysis, and biological applications—are discussed. Finally, critical challenges and prospective research aspects in BPNS‐based heterostructures are also highlighted.
Nanocomposite Hydrogel with Tantalum Microparticles for Rapid Endovascular Hemostasis
Authors: Albadawi Hassan , Altun Izzet , Hu Jingjie , Zhang Zefu , Panda Anshuman , Kim Han‐Jun , Khademhosseini Ali , Oklu Rahmi
Published: November 2020

Endovascular embolization to treat vascular hemorrhage involves pushing coil‐shaped metal wires into the artery repeatedly until they are densely packed to slow the blood flow and clot. However, coil embolization is associated with high rebleeding rates, unpredictable economics and, most importantly, they rely on the patient's ability to make a clot. These issues are exacerbated when the patient is anticoagulated or coagulopathic. A novel bioengineered tantalum‐loaded nanocomposite hydrogel for gel embolic material (Ta‐GEM) that can be rapidly delivered using clinical catheters for instant hemostasis regardless of the coagulopathic state is reported. Ta‐GEM formulation is visible by most of the clinically available imaging modalities including ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and fluoroscopy without significant artifact. In addition, Ta‐GEM can be retrieved, allowing temporary vascular occlusion, and it can be used to rescue cases of failed coil embolization. Ta‐GEM occlusion of first‐order arteries such as the renal artery and iliac artery in a swine model is found to be safe and durable; by 28 days, 75% of the injected Ta‐GEM in the arterial lumen is replaced by dense connective tissue. Altogether, this study demonstrates that Ta‐GEM has many advantages over the current technologies and has potential applications in clinical practice.
Wafer‐Scale Diisopropylammonium Bromide Films for Low‐Power Lateral Organic Ferroelectric Capacitors
Authors: Jin Wei , Xu Mingsheng , Zhou Xiaojie , Wang Jiao , Cai Yichen , Jawad Husnain , Yan Mengge , Tian Bobo , Nie Qingmiao , Yan Bo , Cong Chunxiao , Qiu Zhi‐Jun , Liu Ran , Hu Laigui
Published: November 2020

Organic ferroelectrics, particularly the polymer polyvinylidene fluoride and its copolymer polyvinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene, have received much attention owing to their low cost, flexibility, and convenient thin film fabrication. However, development of this outstanding material for electronic applications is significantly impeded by its attributes of large coercive electric fields and poor spontaneous polarization. While the recent breakthroughs reveal that several kinds of molecular ferroelectrics (e.g., diisopropylammonium bromide (DIPAB)) can exhibit excellent properties comparable to inorganic ferroelectrics, it is still difficult to obtain high‐quality continuous thin films for ferroelectric devices with high performance. In this work, a simple solution strategy is used for the preparation of large‐area high crystallinity or even single‐crystal DIPAB films. Subsequently, planar ferroelectric capacitors are developed with large in‐plane ferroelectric polarization. These capacitors possess excellent memory function with small operating voltages (1–3 V), and a record remnant polarization of 13 µC cm−2 for organic ferroelectric devices. The findings have the potential to pave the way for the substitution of conventional ferroelectric polymers with DIPAB films for future organic ferroelectric devices.
Trade‐Off Between Data Retention and Switching Speed in Resistive Switching ReRAM Devices
Authors: Siegel Sebastian , Baeumer Christoph , Gutsche Alexander , von Witzleben Moritz , Waser Rainer , Menzel Stephan , Dittmann Regina
Published: November 2020

Memristive switching devices are promising for future data storage and neuromorphic computing applications to overcome the scaling and power dissipation limits of classical CMOS technology. Many groups have engineered bilayer oxide structures to enhance the switching performance especially in terms of retention and device reliability. Here, introducing retention enhancement oxide layers into the memristive stack is shown to result in a reduction of the switching speed not only by changing the voltage and temperature distribution in the cell, but also by influencing the rate‐limiting‐step of the switching kinetics. In particular, it is demonstrated that by introducing a retention enhancement layer into resistive switching SrTiO3 devices, the kinetics are no longer determined by the interface exchange reaction between switching oxide and active electrode, but depend on the oxygen ion migration in the additional interface layer. Thus, the oxygen migration barrier in the additional layer determines the switching speed. This trade‐off between retention and switching speed is of general importance for rational engineering of memristive devices.
Key Roles of Trace Oxygen Treatment for High‐Performance Zn‐Doped CuI p‐Channel Transistors
Authors: Liu Ao , Zhu Huihui , Shim Kyu In , Hong Jisu , Jung Haksoon , Han Jeong Woo , Noh Yong‐Young
Published: November 2020

The development of transparent and high‐performance p‐type semiconductors as a counterpart of n‐type metal oxide semiconductors has attracted significant interest for the integration of complementary circuits and p–n junction devices. This study investigates the effect of trace O2 for high‐performance and solution‐processed inorganic p‐channel Zn‐doped copper iodide (CuI) thin‐film transistors (TFTs) via a combined computation–experiment approach. The absorbed O2 molecules in the CuI film can occupy iodine vacancies, acting as trap passivator. Meanwhile, the strong electronegativity of O2 enables electron capture from the CuI matrix, leading to p‐doping. Trace O2‐treated Zn‐doped CuI TFTs exhibit significantly improved electrical performance compared to untreated devices. Optimized TFTs exhibit a high field‐effect hole mobility of 4.4 cm2 V−1 s−1, high on/off current ratio of ≈107, and small hysteresis. These findings provide a clear basis for realizing reproducible and high‐performance metal‐halide (e.g., CuI and perovskite) optoelectronic devices using low‐cost solution process.
Coordination Engineering of Single‐Atom Catalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction: A Review
Authors: Zhang Jincheng , Yang Hongbin , Liu Bin
Published: November 2020

Future renewable energy supplies and a sustainable environment rely on many important catalytic processes. Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) are attractive because of their maximum atom utilization efficiency, tunable electronic structures, and outstanding catalytic performance. Of particular note, transition‐metal SACs exhibit excellent catalytic activity and selectivity for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR)—an important half reaction in fuel cells and metal–air batteries as well as for portable hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production. Although considerable efforts have been made on the synthesis of SACs for ORR, the regulation of the coordination environments of SACs and thus the electronic structures still pose a big challenge. In this review, strategies for manipulating the coordination environments of SACs are classified into three categories, including regulation of the center metal atoms, manipulation of the surrounding environment connecting to the center metal atom, and modification of the geometric configuration of the support. Finally, some issues regarding the future development of SACs for ORR are raised and possible solutions are proposed.
High‐Entropy Metal Sulfide Nanoparticles Promise High‐Performance Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Cui Mingjin , Yang Chunpeng , Li Boyang , Dong Qi , Wu Meiling , Hwang Sooyeon , Xie Hua , Wang Xizheng , Wang Guofeng , Hu Liangbing
Published: November 2020

Transition metal sulfides with a multi‐elemental nature represent a class of promising catalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) owing to their good catalytic activity. However, their synthesis remains a challenge due to the thermodynamic immiscibility of the constituent multimetallic elements in a sulfide structure. Herein, for the first time the synthesis of high‐entropy metal sulfide (HEMS, i.e., (CrMnFeCoNi)Sx) solid solution nanoparticles is reported. Computational and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis suggest that the (CrMnFeCoNi)Sx exhibits a synergistic effect among metal atoms that leads to desired electronic states to enhance OER activity. The (CrMnFeCoNi)Sx nanoparticles show one of the best activities (low overpotential 295 mV at 100 mA cm−2 in 1 m KOH solution) and good durability (only slight polarization after 10 h by chronopotentiometry) compared with their unary, binary, ternary, and quaternary sulfide counterparts. This work opens up a new synthesis paradigm for high‐entropy compound nanoparticles for highly efficient electrocatalysis applications.
Patient understanding of diagnostic ultrasound examinations in an Australian private radiology clinic
Authors: Starcevich Amy , Lombardo Paul , Schneider Michal
Published: November 2020

Purpose

To determine patient understanding and expectations of ultrasound imaging and its safety, sources of examination information and levels of examination anxiety.

Methods

1070 consecutive patients presenting to a private, regional radiology practice in New South Wales, Australia between 16th May and 14th June 2019, were invited to complete a survey while waiting for their non‐interventional ultrasound examination. The survey included questions on demographic characteristics, knowledge such as examination risks and safety, ultrasound expectations such as dissemination of results, sources of examination information and levels of participant anxiety. Data were analysed using Kruskal–Wallis tests (SPSS v. 25) to determine statistical associations between participant demographic factors, knowledge, anxiety level and the main source of examination information.

Results

A total of 215/1070 (20%) patients voluntarily participated in the study. Most were female (74%, 159/215), with a median (range) age of 55 (18–92) years. Participant's median (range) score of ultrasound imaging knowledge was 3 (0–5) scored out of six and indicated uncertainty regarding the ultrasound procedure, result dissemination and ultrasound safety. Participants with previous personal experience had significantly higher levels of ultrasound imaging knowledge than those whose primary information source was their referring doctor (P = 0.0005) or the internet (P = 0.026). Significantly higher levels of ultrasound examination knowledge were also associated with lower self‐reported levels of anxiety (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Participants had incomplete ultrasound examination knowledge, including misconceptions regarding safety and result dissemination, some of which could be clarified by the sonographer at the beginning of the ultrasound examination.
Head‐to‐head comparison of clinical performance of CSF phospho‐tau T181 and T217 biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease diagnosis
Authors: Karikari Thomas K. , Emeršič Andreja , Vrillon Agathe , Lantero‐Rodriguez Juan , Ashton Nicholas J. , Kramberger Milica Gregorič , Dumurgier Julien , Hourregue Claire , Čučnik Saša , Brinkmalm Gunnar , Rot Uroš , Zetterberg Henrik , Paquet Claire , Blennow Kaj
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Phosphorylated tau (p‐tau) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is an established Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarker. Novel immunoassays targeting N‐terminal and mid‐region p‐tau181 and p‐tau217 fragments are available, but head‐to‐head comparison in clinical settings is lacking.

Methods

N‐terminal‐directed p‐tau217 (N‐p‐tau217), N‐terminal‐directed p‐tau181 (N‐p‐tau181), and standard mid‐region p‐tau181 (Mid‐p‐tau181) biomarkers in CSF were evaluated in three cohorts (n = 503) to assess diagnostic performance, concordance, and associations with amyloid beta (Aβ).

Results

CSF N‐p‐tau217 and N‐p‐tau181 had better concordance (88.2%) than either with Mid‐p‐tau181 (79.7%–82.7%). N‐p‐tau217 and N‐p‐tau181 were significantly increased in early mild cognitive impairment (MCI)‐AD (A+T–N–) without changes in Mid‐p‐tau181 until AD‐dementia. N‐p‐tau217 and N‐p‐tau181 identified Aβ pathophysiology (area under the curve [AUC] = 94.8%–97.1%) and distinguished MCI‐AD from non‐AD MCI (AUC = 82.6%–90.5%) signficantly better than Mid‐p‐tau181 (AUC = 91.2% and 70.6%, respectively). P‐tau biomarkers equally differentiated AD from non‐AD dementia (AUC = 99.1%–99.8%).

Discussion

N‐p‐tau217 and N‐p‐tau181 could improve diagnostic accuracy in prodromal‐AD and clinical trial recruitment as both identify Aβ pathophysiology and differentiate early MCI‐AD better than Mid‐p‐tau181.
Impurity Control in Catalyst Design: The Role of Sodium in Promoting and Stabilizing Co and Co2C for Syngas Conversion
Authors: Asundi Arun S. , Hoffman Adam S. , Nathan Sindhu S. , Boubnov Alexey , Bare Simon R. , Bent Stacey F.
Published: November 2020

The design of supported heterogeneous catalysts requires a detailed understanding of the structure and chemistry of the active surface. Although the chemical components of the active phase, support material, and process feed are typically considered to be the most important factors governing catalyst structure and performance, many common commercial supports contain trace impurities, which can have profound effects on catalyst properties. In this work, we study silica‐supported cobalt‐based catalysts, which are widely used in syngas conversion to value‐added products. Supported metallic Co is a commercial Fischer‐Tropsch catalyst, whereas Co2C has shown promise for the direct conversion of syngas to higher oxygenates. This study examines the effects of Na, a commonly detected support impurity and a frequently used promoter, on the structure and reactivity of Co and Co2C. We show that trace Na impurities significantly decrease catalyst activity of supported metallic Co, and that high Na concentrations result in Co2C formation and a loss in Fischer‐Tropsch activity. However, in Co2C catalysts, Na plays an important role in stabilizing the Co2C phase, but excess Na decreases catalyst activity. We use in situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy to study Co2C formation and decomposition in the Na‐free catalyst under carburization and reaction conditions. The work reveals the importance of carefully controlling alkali metal content, particularly at trace levels, in catalyst design.
Optimizing the Reduction Potential of Sulfonamides on Polyamidoamine Dendrimers
Authors: Ghosh Animesh , Tan Nigel C. S. , Shi Raymond R. S. , Webster Richard D. , Steele Terry W. J.
Published: November 2020

p‐Toluenesulfonamide serves as an important functional group to protect alkyl amines. However, the electrochemical deprotection of sulfonamides requires relatively high reduction potentials (−2.4 V vs SCE) that would interfere with other functional groups. Previous investigations suggest that methods are available to decrease the reduction potential, but no systematic investigation has been conducted that evaluates the reduction potential as a function of aryl‐substitution, mediator, or multi‐arm grafting. Cyclic voltammetric studies of a library of bis‐sulfonamides bearing different aryl substituents in DMF reveals that p‐NO2 substituted bis‐sulfonamide has the lowest reduction potential. Further investigations aimed at lowering the cathodic potential with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon mediators display negligible or no impact. This optimized condition was successfully applied to fully p‐nitrobenzenesulfonyl protected generation‐zero and generation‐one polyamidoamine dendrimers (G0.0‐PAMAM‐Ns and G1.0‐PAMAM‐Ns, respectively), demonstrating successful amine protection and deprotection on dendrimers for the first time.
The Kinetics of Droplet Sedimentation in Liquid‐Liquid Extraction
Authors: Bol Pornprapa , Rudelstorfer Georg , Grafschafter Annika , Siebenhofer Matthäus
Published: November 2020

Liquid‐liquid extraction is a major separation process in chemical industry. Beside appropriate design of mass transfer equipment, successful design of phase separation equipment is an important issue. Therefore, the separation of liquid‐liquid dispersions was investigated and modeled with kinetic approaches to gain information for settler design. A modified first‐order sedimentation rate model, a first‐order consecutive step rate model, and a mixed‐order rate model were applied and compared to the experimental data. The advantage of kinetic modeling of the rate of sedimentation, specifically addressing the impact of viscosity and electrolyte concentration, was successfully demonstrated.
Cesium Ion‐Mediated Microporous Carbon for CO2 Capture and Lithium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Lee Hyeon Jeong , Ko Dongah , Kim Joo‐Seong , Park Youngbin , Hwang Insu , Yavuz Cafer T. , Choi Jang Wook
Published: November 2020

Activated carbon has been used in a wide range of applications owing to its large specific area, facile synthesis, and low cost. The synthesis of activated carbon mostly relies on potassium hydroxide (KOH)‐mediated activation which leads to the formation of micropores (<2 nm) after a washing step with acid. Here we report the preparation of activated carbon with an anomalously large surface area (3288 m2 g−1), obtained by employing an activation process mediated by cesium (Cs) ions. The high affinity of the carbon lattice for Cs ions induces immense interlayer expansion upon complexation of the intercalant Cs ion with the carbon host. Furthermore, the Cs‐activation process maintains the nitrogen content of the carbon source by enabling the activation process at low temperature. The large surface area and well‐preserved nitrogen content of Cs‐activated carbon takes advantage of its enhanced interaction with CO2 molecules (for superior CO2 capture) and lithium ions (for improved Li ion storage), respectively. The present investigation unveils a new approach toward tuning the key structural properties of activated carbon; that is, controlling the affinity of the carbon host for the intercalant ion when they engage in complex formation during the activation process.
Area‐Minimizing Currents mod 2Q: Linear Regularity Theory
Authors: De Lellis Camillo , Hirsch Jonas , Marchese Andrea , Stuvard Salvatore
Published: November 2020

We establish a theory of Q‐valued functions minimizing a suitable generalization of the Dirichlet integral. In a second paper the theory will be used to approximate efficiently area minimizing currents mod(p) when p = 2Q, and to establish a first general partial regularity theorem for every p in any dimension and codimension . © 2020 The Authors. Communications on Pure and Applied Mathematics published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Protocols for Experimental Sjögren's Syndrome
Authors: Bagavant Harini , Deshmukh Umesh S.
Published: November 2020

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a systemic autoimmune disease affecting multiple organ systems. Salivary and lacrimal gland involvement cause dry mouth and dry eye and are the most common clinical presentations of the disease. Patients with SS also have autoantibodies targeting multiple nuclear and cytoplasmic antigens. Innate immune activation plays a critical role in SS pathogenesis. This article describes the activation of specific innate immune pathways in mice to study SS salivary gland manifestations. Methodologies for evaluating salivary gland inflammation and salivary function are described. This article also describes protocols for in‐house assays to measure autoantibody titers in serum. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC

Basic Protocol 1: Acceleration of Sjögren's syndrome by activating the toll‐like receptor 3 pathway

Basic Protocol 2: Induction of Sjögren's syndrome by activating the stimulator of interferon genes pathway

Alternate Protocol: Acceleration of Sjögren's syndrome by the administration of Freund's incomplete adjuvant

Support Protocol 1: Evaluating salivary gland function

Support Protocol 2: Evaluating salivary gland inflammation

Support Protocol 3: Measuring autoantibody titers by indirect immunofluorescence