bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality Evaluation of Yam (Dioscorea rotundata) and carrot (Daucus carota L.) Flour Blends for Production of Stiff Dough and Biscuits
Authors: Orafa Nguseer Patience , Samuel Osaretin Buraimoh , Daagema Anastasia Angorkuma
Published: March 2021

This study evaluates the quality of yam and carrot flour blends for the production of stiff dough and biscuits. Flour samples were prepared from yam tubers and carrot flours .The carrot flour was used to substitute 5, 10, 15, and 20 of the yam flour on the stiff dough. Biscuits were prepared from various blends of wheat flour, carrot flour and yam flours. The proximate composition, functional properties, vitamin, minerals and sensory attribute of the flour blends were carried out using appropriate standard methods for the analysis. The sensory properties of the stiff dough and biscuits were determined. The proximate composition of the flour blends were significantly (P< 0.05) different for the moisture (7.52.-6.89%), ash (2.00-2.36%), protein (4.90-4.55%), fat (1.41-1.25%) and carbohydrate (82.09-77.73%). The water absorption (2.53 – 4.10%) and least gelation concentration( 6.43-12.03%) of the blends increased while the bulk density  (0.65-0.53 g/ml), dispersibility (1.49 -2.50%), swelling capacity( 2.59 -3.83%) and foaming capacity (26.73-6.44 g/ml).The blends were rich in iron( 8.43-19.22 mg/100g), zinc (7.43-18.11 mg/100g), magnesium (94.54-170.49 mg/100g) and phosphorus (30.63-84.01 mg/100g). The blends were rich in pro-vitamin A (5.51-17.42). Vitamin B1 (0.43-0.84) and vitamin C (4.81-17.81 mg/100g). The sensory scores recorded on the flour blends for appearances (7.10- 8.50), texture (7.40 -8.10), taste (7.10 -7.85), aroma (6.70 -7.60) and acceptability (6.35-7.70) decreased with increasing level of carrot flour in the blends. The biscuits containing  75% wheat flour, 20% yam flour and 5% carrot flour was the most preferred.
The Contribution of Common Interest Groups (CIGs) to Rural Livelihoods Development in Afghanistan: A Case Study of Bamiyan and Herat Provinces
Authors: Khail Miraqa Hussain , Sabawoon Ahmad Sina
Published: March 2021

Common Interest Group (CIG) as a farmer organization is a small voluntary association of poor people and small-scale farmers, usually from the same socio-economic background, who come together on the bases of some mutual interest or common objective. The main objective of this case study, conducted in 2020, was to examine the situation of CIGs in terms of their performance and to assess their role in improving rural livelihoods in Afghanistan. The analysis of data, collected through stratified random sampling technique from 160 CIG members of Bamiyan and Herat provinces, shows that CIG model is one of the successful models for improving the socio-economic status of small-scale famers and rural poverty-stricken population in Afghanistan. CIGs provide agricultural inputs and trainings on improved agricultural technologies to its members on favorable terms and time.
Appraisal of Agricultural Extension Delivery Approaches among Mbororo Fulani Women in the North West Region of Cameroon
Authors: Forbang Loveline Enjoh , Lengha Tonian Nobert , Amungwa Fonteh Athanasius
Published: March 2021

The focus to this study is to make an appraisal on the different agricultural extension delivery approaches that are used to disseminate agricultural innovations to Mbororo Fulani women in the North West region of Cameroon. The study was done between January 2018 to May 2020 and involved only Mbororo Fulani women between the ages of 21-60 years. Primary data was collected through the use of structured questionnaires, observations, focus groups and Interview guides. While secondary data was collected through the study of books, journals, research projects and scientific articles. Multistage sampling techniques were used to select the female farmers for the study. 400 questionnaires were administered randomly to Mbororo women in Mezam, Momo, Boyo, and Donga-Mantung Divisions of the North West Region of Cameroon. Statistical package for social science (SPSS) was used for data analysis and the spearman correlation coefficient test was equally used to verify the hypothesis. Results from the study revealed that farmer field school (37%) and participatory approach (47%) are the most common extension approaches used to provide agricultural innovations to the Mbororo Fulani women in the North West region of Cameroon. Also, the study noted that Mbororo Fulani women in the North West region have limited knowledge about extension delivery approaches needed to bring about innovations in the agricultural sector which they are greatly involved.  It is therefore recommended that Policy makers in agricultural extension related issues, should develop gender sensitive measures to increase Mbororo Fulani women in education and training that can create awareness on the application of extension delivery approaches in the agricultural sector which the find themselves as active participants and this can be done through the creation of Mbororo Fulani female farmer’s cooperatives.
Using Diatom Assemblages and Physicochemical Parameters to Characterize Waterfalls in Western Highlands of Cameroun, West Africa
Authors: Noumssi Bernadette , François Nguetsop Victor , Théophile Fonkou , Francis Kom Meliphe , Paul Ghogue Jean , Joseph Tchoumboue
Published: March 2021

Diatoms are mostly aquatic plants, growing in various environmental conditions and habitat. Because of their high sensitivity to environmental variations and rapid response to degradation, they are used as biological indicators. This study aimed to analyses the physicochemical parameters and diatoms assemblages of waterfalls. This will allow determining the key environmental factors that are responsible for both diatoms and Podostemaceae spatial and temporal distribution in the studied area.Water and diatoms samples were taken respectively for the physicochemical and biological analysis. Diatoms samples were collected by scraping the bedrocks and submerged plants; diatoms were subsequently identified to the species level using a light microscope. For physicochemical data analysis, a principal component analysis approach was used while diatom’s data were submitted to a correspondence trophic analysis. A total of 169 diatom species were identified in both waterfalls. Podostemaceae poor waterfalls were more species-rich (127) than the rich ones (110). Podostemaceae poor and Podostemaceae rich waterfalls were characterized with low mineralization, low values of pH and oxygen saturated water. The observed assemblages were composed of oligotrophic to eutrophic species, acidophilic, neutrophilic and high to moderate oxygen saturated water taxa. The ecology of different species revealed that dissolved oxygen was the main parameter which controls the distribution of diatoms, and probably the Podostemaeceae one in the two type of waterfalls Podostemaceae poor waterfalls are characterized by Fragilariacapucina and Gomphonema gracile. Podostemacea rich waterfalls were characterized by Eunotiafaba, Eunotiarhomboïdea, Pinnularia microstauron, Gomphonema procerum and Gomphonema clavatum.
Electrophysiological Detection of Asymptomatic Neuropathy in Alcohol Dependence Syndrome Patients- A Cross Sectional Observational Study
Authors: Visweshwar Arvind , Hanifah Mohamed , Murugesan . , Avudaiappan . , Prakash Arun
Published: March 2021

Aim: To detect the prevalence of asymptomatic neuropathy using nerve conduction study among alcohol dependence syndrome patients and to investigate the existence or not of correlation between duration, quantity of alcohol consumption and neuropathy.

Study Design: Observational cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of General Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Pondicherry, affiliated to Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University, India between February 2019 and August 2020.

Methods: Alcohol dependence syndrome patients, asymptomatic for neuropathy were prospectively included and, patients who were symptomatic and had other comorbid conditions that can cause neuropathy were excluded. Patients were then submitted to nerve conduction studies. In patients who had neuropathy, duration and quantity of alcohol consumption were compared for correlation.

Results: This study included 65 male patients who were mostly middle aged heavy drinkers of alcohol. 73.8% (n=48) had neuropathy. Our research showed longer the duration, larger the quantity of alcohol consumption, and higher the Cut-Annoyed-Guilty-Eye (CAGE score), more were the prevalence of neuropathy. This research also used Severity Of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SAD-Q) scoring for screening alcohol dependence which showed patients with neuropathy were moderate drinkers. We did not find correlation with age of patients and neuropathy.

Conclusion: This research results like correlation of prevalence of neuropathy and duration of alcohol consumption and quantity of alcohol consumption were in contrast with previous studies on alcoholic neuropathy. This research used SAD-Q scoring for dependence, future researches can throw light on usage of SAD-Q score in asymptomatic neuropathy and the correlation of neuropathy with alcohol consumption.
Effect of Plant growing Structures and Media on Yield of Tomato in the Rooftop Garden
Authors: Akter Most Tania , Islam Mohammad Mahbub , Bithy Parvin Akter , Parvin Suraya , Bari Md. Ehtasham
Published: March 2021

This experiment was carried out at the rooftop garden of the Department of Agricultural Botany, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University (SAU), Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh from October 2017 to March 2018 to evaluate the response of tomato to different plant growing structures and composition of growing media in the rooftop garden. The experiment had two factors, factor A- two plant growing structures, viz., S1 = Plastic pot, S2 = Earthen pot and factor B - six different plant growing medium viz. M0 = Soil 100% (w/w) + inorganic fertilizer (IF)/(control), M1 = Soil 80% (w/w) + 20% cowdung (w/w) + IF, M2 = Soil 70% (w/w) + 30% cowdung (w/w) + IF, M3 = Soil 90% (w/w) + 10% vermicompost (w/w) + IF, M4 = Soil 80% (w/w) + 20% vermicompost (w/w) + IF, M5 = Soil 80% (w/w) + 10% cowdung (w/w) + 10% vermicompost (w/w) + IF. The factorial experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications. The experimental results yield contributing characters and yield of tomato significantly influenced by different plant growing structures and various composition of plant growing media and also their combination. Considering plant growing structures, the S1 gave the highest flower clusters per plant, flowers per plant, fruit length and fruit breadth.  The maximum yield of fruits per plant (1.69 kg) was also obtained from plastic pot. The M5 had the highest flower clusters per plant, flowers per plant, fruit length and fruit diameter. The maximum yield of fruits per plant (2.17 kg) was recorded from the M5. The highest yield of fruits per plant (2.15 kg) was obtained from the treatment combination of S1M5. This experimental results suggest that S1M5 be able to increase the fruit yield of BARI tomato14 for rabi season in the rooftop garden.
Effective Dealing with Insider Threats a Comparison of Qualitative and Quantitative Research
Authors: Withanachchi Chamara
Published: March 2021

This paper studies and compare qualitative and quantitative research paper to find what research methodology is having disengages and disadvantages of such research. This paper is based on mainly two articles to do the said comparison. This will be discussed about the relevant articles that have been selected on the main theme of the research study. It can be understood that these findings are also based on the literature review of the study because all the data are gathered from secondary resources.
Place of Groundnut in the Cropping System, Constraints, Local Taxonomy and Farmers' Criteria for Characterizing Groundnut Cultivars in Niger
Authors: Garba Nana Mariama Idi , Toudou Abdoulkarim , Ibrahim Maman Laouali Adamou , Soumana Idrissa , Bakasso Yacoubou
Published: March 2021

The groundnut is a leguminous, olea-proteaginous, cultivated in all the tropical zones throughout the world. In Niger, groundnut is used both as a cash and food crop and is highly valued for its nutritional and economic qualities. In order to show the local diversity of groundnut and its place in the cultivation system in Niger, a prospecting survey and seed collection was conducted in the regions of Zinder, Maradi, Tahoua and Dosso, which account for more than 90% of the national production. Two hundred and seventeen (217) producers were surveyed, using a quota-oriented technic. It emerged from this study that groundnut is generally grown pure or in association with cereals (millet, sorghum) or other legumes (cowpea, sorrel, sesame). Few producers know the varieties they use (55 437, RRB, JL 24, FLEUR 11); the rest only know the local names of the varieties (El Laray, El Haoussa, MargaMarga, El Dakar, Mai Silbi, Garangagia, Bahaoussa, El Masar, Tsougouné, El Arba'in). This denomination depends on the origin of the variety, its morphology and earliness. The seeds are generally sold or used for transformation and the leaves are also either sold or kept for animals. Haulms are mostly given to animals during the dry season. The prices of haulms and seeds are higher during the same period and therefore vary according the periods. Producers cited several constraints related to groundnut production which are Insufficient fertilizer, diseases and insect pests, insufficient rainfall, and problem of seeds quality.
Effect of Mechanic Village Activities on Selected Soil Properties in Abakaliki Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Njoku C. , Mbah C. N. , Elom O. , Agwu J. O.
Published: March 2021

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of mechanic village on selected soil physico-chemical properties and heavy metals content in Abakaliki Southeastern Nigeria. Five replicate soil samples were collected from arable land (Control), lorry automobile repair site (Lorry), motorcycle automobile repair site,(motorcycle) car and bus repair site(car and bus),  automobile spare parts market (spare parts). These samples were taken to laboratory for the determination of selected soil physico-chemical properties and heavy metal content. The data obtained from this research was analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) based on CRD and difference between treatment means were dictated using F-LSD at P < 0.05. The result showed significantly (p < 0.05) adverse effect among the different automobile locations studied with respect to control in bulk density, total porosity, mean weight diameter and aggregate stability. The chemical properties of soils of mechanic village were also significantly adversely affected by mechanic village. The observed heavy metals in mechanic village were higher than the recommended ranges in soils. Therefore, it advisable that some agronomical practices that could increase the nutrients and lower the heavy metals level should be employed in order to get high crop yield and safe produce.
Solution of Euler’s Differential Equation and AC-Laplace Transform of Inverse Power Functions and Their Pseudofunctions, in Nonstandard Analysis
Authors: Morita Tohru
Published: March 2021

It is shown that the index law of the Riemann-Liouville fractional derivative is recovered when nonstandard analysis is applied, and then the solutions of Euler’s differential equation are obtained in nonstandard analysis, where infinitesimal number appears. They are given in the form, from which the solutions in distribution theory are obtained. In the derivation, the AC-Laplace transforms of functions tν and tν(loge t) m for complex number ν and positive integer m, are used. By using these formulas, the AC-Laplace transforms of functions t− n + andt− n +(loge t) m for positive integers n and m, and their pseudofunctions are obtained with the aid of nonstandard analysis.
The Prevalence and Associated Factors of Caesarean Section at Noakhali Sadar, Bangladesh
Authors: Alam Syeda Saima , Rahman Tanjina , Ghosh Susmita , Akhter Tanzina , Rume Dilruba Jahan , Faruk Mohammad Omar , Ahmed Shakil , Munna Rakibul Islam
Published: March 2021

Background: The present Caesarean section (C-Section) delivery rate is 33% in Bangladesh which is almost double what is recommended by the World Health Organization for each country. C-section delivery is related to surgical complications, thus increase the rate of hospitalization and reduce women’s quality of life. However, data on C-section delivery rates in different areas in this country are limited. Keeping this in mind, the objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with C-section deliveries in Noakhali district, Bangladesh.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 400 women of child-bearing age from Noakhali district, Bangladesh, who had either cesarean (215) or normal vaginal delivery (185) in the last two years using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 and frequency tabulation, binary and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to achieve the study objective.

Results: The prevalence of C-Section in the study area was 53.75%, which was higher than the current Bangladeshi C-section prevalence rate. The most important predictors of C-section delivery among the study area were the mother’s nutritional status, education of the respondent and her husband, family income, normal representation of the fetus, prolong labor pain during delivery, delivery in a private facility, term delivery, and baby’s birth weight. The adjusted odds of undergoing C-section was higher among respondents who were overweight (AOR=6.53; CI=3.007 to 14.18), had LBW baby (AOR= 4.641; CI=2.066 to 10.42), family income more than or equal 20,000 (AOR =3.038; CI=1.056 to 8.743),prolong labor pain during delivery (AOR = 6.027; CI=2.829 to 12.84), performed delivery in private facility (AOR= 27.88; CI=11.55 to 67.33) and mal-presentation of the fetus (AOR = 6.867; CI=2.519 to 18.72).

Conclusions: The health care system in Noakhali and other districts in Bangladesh urgently needs policy guidelines to monitor C-Section delivery indications to avoid high rates of unnecessary C-Section.
Colocolic Intussusception Associated with Octangium sp. (Digenea: Microscaphidiidae) in a Green Sea Turtle Chelonia mydas
Authors: Oliveira Radan Elvis Matias de , Rossi Silmara , Attademo Fernanda Löffler Niemeyer , Santoro Thiago Almeida , Revorêdo Rafael Ângelo , Farias Daniel Solon Dias de , Lima Mariana Almeida , Batista Jael Soares , Silva Flávio José de Lima , Gavilan Simone Almeida , Oliveira Moacir Franco de
Published: March 2021

Reports of intussusception in sea turtles are generally linked to marine debris ingestion; therefore, only a few cases of the disease are associated with parasitic infestations. The objective of this study was to describe the necropsy findings of the first reported case of colocolic intussusception in a green sea turtle Chelonia mydas, associated with the helminth Octangium sp. A juvenile female green sea turtle, which was registered and rescued by the team from the Cetaceans Project of Costa Branca, State University of Rio Grande do Norte, was examined. The animal died 1 d after being treated and was immediately submitted for necropsy. Our findings indicated that parasitic infestation by Octangium sp. in the green sea turtle caused intussusception and consequently led to the animal’s death. Early diagnosis and surgical correction are fundamental for a good prognosis and, consequently, for successful rehabilitation of marine species.
Centimeter‐Sized Molecular Perovskite Crystal for Efficient X‐Ray Detection
Authors: Ma Chuang , Chen Fang , Song Xin , Chen Ming , Gao Lili , Wang Peijun , Wen Jialun , Yang Zhou , Tang Youzhi , Zhao Kui , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: March 2021

Molecular perovskites have demonstrated great potential for ferroelectrics and nonlinear optics; however, their charge transport properties for optoelectronics have rarely been explored. Here, understanding of charge transport behavior of molecular perovskite under X‐ray excitation based on centimeter‐scale TMCM‐CdCl3 (TMCM+, trimethylchloromethyl ammonium) single crystal is demonstrated. The crystal is fabricated from an aqueous solution and exhibits a large bandgap of 5.51 eV, with the valence band maximum mainly dominated by the Cl‐p/Cd‐d states and the conduction band minimum primarily by Cd‐s/Cl‐p states. Charge mobility exceeding 40 cm2 V−1 s−1 and mobility–lifetime (µτ) product on the order of 10−4 cm2 V−1 for the crystal are observed. These excellent optoelectronic properties translate to an efficient photoresponse under X‐ray excitation, with the sensitivity reaching 128.9 ± 4.64 µC Gyair−1 cm−2 [fivefold higher than that of the commercialized amorphous selenium (α‐Se)] and a low detection limit of 1.06 μC Gyair−1 s−1 (10 V bias). This work pioneers a superior metal‐based molecular perovskite single‐crystal based paradigm for optoelectronic investigation, which may lead to the discovery of a new generation of X‐ray detection and imaging materials.
Engineering Fractal Photonic Metamaterials by Stochastic Self‐Assembly of Nanoparticles
Authors: Fusco Zelio , Tran-Phu Thanh , Cembran Arianna , Kiy Alexander , Kluth Patrick , Nisbet David , Tricoli Antonio
Published: March 2021

The scale‐invariant features of fractal‐structured materials offer significant opportunities for the manipulation of short‐ and long‐range light–matter interactions in a 3D space, with recent photonics applications including biomolecular sensing and visible‐blind photodetectors. The development of synthesis methods for the large‐scale fabrication of fractal metamaterials with tuneable hierarchy bears significant potential and is the focus of many research fields. Among various fabrication routes, Brownian's motion‐driven coagulation of nanomaterials, below their sintering temperature, leads to fractal‐like structures presenting self‐similar properties at different length scales. Herein, an in‐depth investigation of the properties of fractal metamaterials obtained via the scalable self‐assembly of hot aerosols of TiO2, Bi2O3, and Au‐Bi2O3 nanoparticles, chosen as representative photonic materials, is reported. The fractal properties of these aerosol‐synthesized nanoparticle powders and thin films are systematically investigated via small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), image analysis, and theoretical modeling. It is demonstrated that in the diffusion‐limited aggregation (DLA) regime the fractal dimensions are preserved and in the range of 1.75–1.83 during the formation of the nanoparticle agglomerates, independently of the material. These findings provide a flexible platform for the engineering of macroscale 3D nanomaterials with hierarchical properties with potential applications ranging from energy harvesting to photocatalysis and sensing.
Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor/Quatsome Nanoconjugates: A Robust Topical Delivery System for Complex Wound Healing
Authors: Ferrer‐Tasies Lidia , Santana Hector , Cabrera‐Puig Ingrid , González‐Mira Elisabet , Ballell‐Hosa Lídia , Castellar‐Álvarez Carla , Córdoba Alba , Merlo‐Mas Josep , Gerónimo Haydee , Chinea Glay , Falcón Viviana , Moreno‐Calvo Evelyn , Pedersen Jan Skov , Romero Jessica , Navarro‐Requena Claudia , Valdés Calixto , Limonta Miladys , Berlanga Jorge , Sala Santiago , Martínez Eduardo , Veciana Jaume , Ventosa Nora
Published: March 2021

A multitude of microparticles and nanoparticles is developed to improve the delivery of different small drugs and large biomolecules, which are subject to several hindering biological barriers that limit their optimal biodistribution and therapeutic effects. Here, a soft, reliable, and scalable method based on compressed CO2 is reported for obtaining nanoconjugates of recombinant human epidermal growth factor and nanovesicles called quatsomes, where the latter consists of cholesterol and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide. These nanoconjugates exhibit appropriate values of the major critical quality attributes of colloidal nanomedicines, such as controlled and narrow nanoscopic particle size distribution (which play important roles in determining their stability), drug loading, drug release, drug protection, targeting ability, and bioactivity. Also, they exhibit a dual action by 1) inbuilt antimicrobial activity preventing infections and 2) promoting regeneration of granulation tissue and re‐epithelialization with complete closure of complex wounds. Therefore, such nanoconjugates are a potential nanomedicine for the topical treatment of complex wounds, particularly diabetic foot ulcers and venous leg ulcers.
Reduced Graphene Oxide Tattoo as Wearable Proximity Sensor
Authors: Kedambaimoole Vaishakh , Kumar Neelotpala , Shirhatti Vijay , Nuthalapati Suresh , Kumar Saurabh , Nayak Mangalore Manjunatha , Sen Prosenjit , Akinwande Deji , Rajanna Konandur
Published: March 2021

The human body is punctuated with wide array of sensory systems that provide a high evolutionary advantage by facilitating formation of a detailed picture of the immediate surroundings. The sensors range across a wide spectrum, acquiring input from noncontact audiovisual means to contact‐based input via touch and taste. The ambit of sensing can be extended further by imparting the body with increased noncontact sensing capability through the phenomenon of electrostatics. Here, a graphene‐based tattoo sensor is presented for proximity sensing, employing the principle of electrostatic gating. The sensor shows a remarkable change in resistance upon exposure to objects surrounded with static charge on them. Compared to prior work in this field, the sensor demonstrates the highest recorded proximity detection range of 20 cm. It is ultrathin, highly skin conformal, and comes with a facile transfer process such that it can be tattooed on the human skin, unlike other graphene‐based proximity sensors reported before. Present work details the operation of wearable proximity sensor while exploring the effect of mounting body on the working mechanism. A possible role of the sensor as an alerting system against unwarranted contact with objects in public places especially during the current COVID‐19 pandemic is also explored.
Tunable Electroluminescence for Pure White Emission From a Perovskite‐Based LED
Authors: Vashishtha Parth , Brown Alasdair A. M. , Pu Suan Hui , Mhaisalkar Subodh , Mathews Nripan
Published: March 2021

Halide perovskite nanocrystals are a promising candidate for lighting applications. However, the production of white light emitting diodes (LEDs) is still a major challenge due to halide ion segregation. In this work, it is demonstrated that reducing the thickness of the perovskite layer in an LED stack can modulate the recombination zone, such that a tunable emission can be obtained. This comprises of an orange electromer emission from a hole‐transport layer (HTL), green electroluminescence from the perovskite active layer, and a blue monomer emission from the same HTL. Overall, a pure white emission can be achieved after successful device optimization, which is particularly challenging for LEDs in which the emission originates solely from perovskite layer. It is anticipated that this methodology could be employed on any type of green‐emitting nanocrystals to fabricate white LEDs.
Cellulose for Light Manipulation: Methods, Applications, and Prospects
Authors: Reimer Martin , Zollfrank Cordt
Published: March 2021

Cellulose is one of the most abundant biopolymers on earth. It is a sustainable and renewable raw material with many beneficial properties. Due to its availability, nontoxicity, environmental friendliness, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, cellulose is one of the world's most used biopolymers. Cellulose is currently establishing its role as a strong potential candidate for advanced applications in various engineering fields. In addition, cellulose and some of its derivatives exhibit properties, which recommend themselves for use in optical applications and for manipulating light in a targeted manner. In the last decades, efforts were directed toward the production of artificial ordered structures such as photonic crystals, chiral nematic liquid crystals or Bragg stacks, as well as disordered structures such as random lasers from cellulose in order to tailor the interaction of visible light with biopolymers. Due to its sustainable availability and its ability to manage light interactions, cellulose is increasingly used in optoelectronic devices to replace fossil‐based polymers. Cellulose and its derivatives can be consequently applied as optical fibers, probes, organic light emitting diodes, flexible touch screens, and solar cells. The present review provides an overview of the processability and applications of cellulose and its derivatives for the specific manipulation of light.
Market integration and agricultural development: The case of Tibet's ruminant livestock industries
Authors: Brown Colin , Zhang Jing , Zhuoga Deqing , Baiyang Weisi , Yadav Lava
Published: March 2021

Expanding livestock production is widely promoted as a way of improving livelihoods of smallholder farmers. However the rudimentary, insular and relatively small size of markets in which many smallholders operate means that rapid livestock industry expansion can have an adverse impact on prices and livelihoods. The link between market integration, livestock industry development and smallholder livelihoods is examined in the case of ruminant livestock industry expansion in Tibet. The analysis finds some transmission between Chinese and Tibetan sheepmeat prices and that this integration with the broader Chinese market and its favourable medium term outlook is crucial to any livestock industry expansion given the current low margins for sheep for Tibetan farmers. While Tibet milk prices exceed eastern China prices, and evidence of transmission is less pronounced, the outcome for smallholder Tibetan dairy farmers in doubling their cow numbers is better in an integrated market than in an insular market. Thus the analysis highlights the importance for ruminant livestock industry expansion in Tibet of integration with broader Chinese markets while also highlighting the need to consider market integration when assessing livestock industry development strategies for smallholder farmers. [EconLit Citations: Q12, Q13]
Equilibrium catalyst from a fluidized catalytic cracking unit separated by metal content by using carbon nanotubes and a biphasic system
Authors: Briggs Nicholas M. , Crossley Steven P.
Published: March 2021

During fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) operations FCC catalyst particles become contaminated with various metals. These metals impact FCC performance and currently requires equilibrium catalyst (ECAT) mixtures consisting of a blend of FCC particles with a time spent in the reactor ranging from minutes to several months to be continuously extracted and sold as low value products or sent to landfills. Here a unique method to recycle FCC ECAT particles is presented, which separates ECAT particles by metal content by synthesizing carbon nanotubes and nanofibers on the ECAT particles surface and using a biphasic system. ECAT with low metal content can be sent back to the FCC unit for further use while ECAT with high metal content can be used for other purposes. Further, we show these treated ECAT materials of high metals content will absorb oil on the surface of water and may prove useful for oil spill clean‐up applications.
Kinetics simulation of propylene epoxidation over different Ti species in TS‐1
Authors: Zhang Miao , Zuo Yi , Li Tonghui , Liu Min , Yang Hong , Guo Xinwen
Published: March 2021

A thorough experimental investigation on the kinetic behavior of liquid‐phase propylene epoxidation over TS‐1 and tetrapropylammonium hydroxide (TPAOH) treated TS‐1 catalysts was conducted in a fixed‐bed reactor. The amounts of different coordinated Ti species in the catalysts were quantified by spectroscopies, and their catalytic performances of the epoxidation and alcoholysis of propylene oxide were measured by kinetic modeling. The study shows that the TPAOH treatment converted some of the tetrahedrally coordinated Ti to octahedrally coordinated Ti, and both species were active for the epoxidation and alcoholysis. The superior catalytic performance observed over the TPAOH treated TS‐1 is due to two factors, the increased percentage of active sites, and reduced energy barrier for epoxidation on the octahedrally coordinated Ti. In addition, as the H2O2 conversion increases, the adsorption equilibrium constant of propylene oxide plays a more decisive role than the activation energy for the selectivity of propylene glycol monomethyl ethers.
Peer‐based interventions targeting suicide prevention: A scoping review
Authors: Bowersox Nicholas W. , Jagusch Jennifer , Garlick James , Chen Jason I. , Pfeiffer Paul N.
Published: March 2021

Peers of individuals at risk for suicide may be able to play important roles in suicide prevention. The aim of the current study is to conduct a scoping review to characterize the breadth of peer‐delivered suicide prevention services and their outcomes to inform future service delivery and research. Articles were selected based on search terms related to peers, suicide, or crisis. After reviews of identified abstracts (N = 2681), selected full‐text articles (N = 286), and additional references (N = 62), a total of 84 articles were retained for the final review sample.

Types of suicide prevention services delivered by peers included being a gatekeeper, on‐demand crisis support, crisis support in acute care settings, and crisis or relapse prevention. Peer relationships employed in suicide prevention services included fellow laypersons; members of the same sociodemographic subgroup (e.g., racial minority), workplace, or institution (e.g., university, correctional facility); and the shared experience of having a mental condition. The majority of published studies were program descriptions or uncontrolled trials, with only three of 84 articles qualifying as randomized controlled trials. Despite a lack of methodological rigor in identified studies, peer support interventions for suicide prevention have been implemented utilizing a diverse range of peer provider types and functions. New and existing peer‐delivered suicide prevention services should incorporate more rigorous evaluation methods regarding acceptability and effectiveness.
Wild chimpanzee offspring exhibit adult‐like foraging patterns around the age of weaning
Authors: Lonsdorf Elizabeth V. , Stanton Margaret A. , Wellens Kaitlin R. , Murray Carson M.
Published: March 2021

Objectives

The prolonged juvenile period exhibited by primates is an evolutionary conundrum. Here we examine wild chimpanzee feeding development in the context of two hypotheses regarding prolonged development in primates: the needing‐to‐learn hypothesis and the expensive brain hypothesis.

Material and Methods

We studied wild chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) offspring at Gombe National Park, Tanzania. We analyzed 41 years of observational behavioral data collected between 1975 and 2016 from 81 offspring. We characterized feeding development in the first 10 years of life via four different measures: (1) proportion of observation time spent feeding; (2) diet composition; (3) diet breadth; and (4) diet maturity as measured by similarity to maternal diet. We used mixed effects models to examine changes with age and by sex, while controlling for season.

Results

Feeding time, diet breadth, and diet maturity exhibited the most substantial increases with age in the first 6 years, with no significant change thereafter. Males and females showed different patterns of change in diet breadth by age, but did not differ by age 10. Diet composition did not change significantly with age and did not differ by sex.

Discussion

We found that chimpanzee offspring attained adult‐like feeding behaviors between 4 and 6 years of age, concomitant with the completion of weaning. Thus, our data do not support the needing‐to‐learn feeding skills hypothesis of a prolonged juvenile period, but additional data are needed to evaluate how and when adolescent chimpanzees are able to make foraging decisions independent of their mothers. Existing data on growth provides support for the expensive brain hypothesis, however, these hypotheses are not necessarily mutually exclusive. As more studies across taxa accumulate sufficient datasets on a range of developmental metrics, we will be able to achieve a more robust understanding of prolonged development in primates.
Nonreciprocal Amplification in Coupled‐Rotating Cavities Around Exceptional Points
Authors: Peng Rui , Zhao Chengsong , Yang Zhen , Xiong Biao , Zhou Ling
Published: March 2021

A nonreciprocal‐amplified scheme for signal transmission is proposed in a coupled rotation‐cavity system, where the two cavities rotate with opposite directions, and an optical parametric amplifier (OPA) is attached to one cavity. The coupling between cavities can effectively compensate and enhance the frequency shift of the Sagnac effect, and a perfect nonreciprocity can be achieved. Owing to the introduction of an OPA medium, eigenvalues of the dynamic matrix exhibit exceptional points (EPs), and the amplified‐nonreciprocal transmission can be obtained around EPs.
Enhanced Surface Ligands Reactivity of Metal Clusters by Bulky Ligands for Controlling Optical and Chiral Properties
Authors: Deng Guocheng , Malola Sami , Yuan Peng , Liu Xianhu , Teo Boon K. , Häkkinen Hannu , Zheng Nanfeng
Published: March 2021

Surface ligands play critical roles in determining the surface properties of metal clusters. However, modulating the properties and controlling the surface structure of clusters through surface‐capping‐agent displacement is challenging. Herein, [Ag14(SPh(CF3)2)12(PPh3)4(DMF)4] (Ag14‐DMF; DMF=N,N‐dimethylformamide), with weakly coordinated DMF ligands on surface silver sites, was synthesized by a mixed‐ligands strategy. Owing to the high surface reactivity of Ag14‐DMF, the surface ligands are labile, easily dissociated or exchanged by other ligands. Based on the enhanced surface reactivity, easy modulation of the optical properties of Ag14 by reversible “on‐off” DMF ligation was realized. When chiral amines were introduced to as‐prepared products, all eight surface ligands were replaced by amines and the racemic Ag14 clusters were converted to optically pure homochiral Ag14 clusters as evidenced by circular dichroism (CD) activity and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD). This work provides a new insight into modulation of the optical properties of metal clusters and atomically precise homochiral clusters for specific applications are obtained.
E. coli Nickel‐Iron Hydrogenase 1 Catalyses Non‐native Reduction of Flavins: Demonstration for Alkene Hydrogenation by Old Yellow Enzyme Ene‐reductases**
Authors: Joseph Srinivasan Shiny , Cleary Sarah E. , Ramirez Miguel A. , Reeve Holly A. , Paul Caroline E. , Vincent Kylie A.
Published: March 2021

A new activity for the [NiFe] uptake hydrogenase 1 of Escherichia coli (Hyd1) is presented. Direct reduction of biological flavin cofactors FMN and FAD is achieved using H2 as a simple, completely atom‐economical reductant. The robust nature of Hyd1 is exploited for flavin reduction across a broad range of temperatures (25–70 °C) and extended reaction times. The utility of this system as a simple, easy to implement FMNH2 or FADH2 regenerating system is then demonstrated by supplying reduced flavin to Old Yellow Enzyme “ene‐reductases” to support asymmetric alkene reductions with up to 100 % conversion. Hyd1 turnover frequencies up to 20.4 min−1 and total turnover numbers up to 20 200 were recorded during flavin recycling.
Synthese von trifluorierten Tetralinen durch I(I)/I(III)‐katalysierte Ringexpansion: programmieren von Konformationen über [CH2CH2] → [CF2CHF] Isosterismus
Authors: Neufeld Jessica , Stünkel Timo , Mück‐Lichtenfeld Christian , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Gilmour Ryan
Published: March 2021

Gesättigte, fluorierte Carbocyclen haben sich als wichtiges Gerüst in der heutigen Wirkstoffforschung etabliert. Um das aktuelle Portfolio zu erweitern, wurde eine neue Methode zur Synthese von trifluorierten Tetralinen entwickelt. Fluorierte Methylenindane dienen dabei als geeignete Substrate und unterliegen einer effizienten, difluorierenden Ringexpansion mit in situ erzeugtem p‐TolIF2 (>20 Beispiele, bis zu >95 % Ausbeute). Eine Reihe verschiedener Substituenten wird unter den katalytischen Reaktionsbedingungen toleriert und das Ergebnis wird zusätzlich durch Hammett Analyse bestätigt. Die Röntgenstrukturanalyse zeigt, dass die CH‐F‐Bindung eine pseudoaxiale Orientierung einnimmt, welche mit einer Stabilisierung der σC‐H→σC‐F* Wechselwirkung einhergeht. Das Ersetzen des symmetrischen [CH2‐CH2]‐Motivs durch das nicht‐symmetrische [CF2‐CHF]‐Motiv beseitigt die Konformationsentartung und führt zu einem vorhersagbaren Halbsessel. Die erhaltenen Konformationen dieses neuartigen strukturellen Gleichgewichts wurden durch Computeranalyse untersucht und das Ergebnis steht im Einklang mit der stereoelektronischen Theorie.
Segmented Flow Processes to Overcome Hurdles of Whole‐Cell Biocatalysis in the Presence of Organic Solvents
Authors: Adebar Niklas , Nastke Alina , Löwe Jana , Gröger Harald
Published: March 2021

In modern process development, it is imperative to consider biocatalysis, and whole‐cell catalysts often represent a favored form of such catalysts. However, the application of whole‐cell catalysis in typical organic batch two‐phase synthesis often struggles due to mass transfer limitations, emulsion formation, tedious work‐up and, thus, low yields. Herein, we demonstrate that utilizing segmented flow tools enables the conduction of whole‐cell biocatalysis efficiently in biphasic media. Exemplified for three different biotransformations, the power of such segmented flow processes is shown. For example, a 3‐fold increase of conversion from 34 % to >99 % and a dramatic simplified work‐up leading to a 1.5‐fold higher yield from 44 % to 65 % compared to the analogous batch process was achieved in such a flow process.
Palladium‐Mediated Cγ−H Functionalization of Alicyclic Amines
Authors: Aguilera Ellen Y. , Sanford Melanie S.
Published: March 2021

This paper describes a new method for the transannular functionalization of the γ‐C−H bonds in alicyclic amines to install C(sp3)−halogen, oxygen, nitrogen, boron, and sulfur bonds. The key challenge for this transformation is controlling the relative rate of Cγ−H versus Cα−H functionalization. We demonstrate that this selectivity can be achieved by pre‐complexation of the substrate with Pd prior to the addition of oxidant. This approach enables the use of diverse oxidants that ultimately install various heteroatom functional groups at the γ‐position with high site‐ and diastereoselectivity.
Trifluorinated Tetralins via I(I)/I(III)‐Catalysed Ring Expansion: Programming Conformation by [CH2CH2] → [CF2CHF] Isosterism
Authors: Neufeld Jessica , Stünkel Timo , Mück‐Lichtenfeld Christian , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Gilmour Ryan
Published: March 2021

Saturated, fluorinated carbocycles are emerging as important modules for contemporary drug discovery. To expand the current portfolio, the synthesis of novel trifluorinated tetralins has been achieved. Fluorinated methyleneindanes serve as convenient precursors and undergo efficient difluorinative ring expansion with in situ generated p‐TolIF2 (>20 examples, up to >95 %). A range of diverse substituents are tolerated under standard catalysis conditions and this is interrogated by Hammett analysis. X‐ray analysis indicates a preference for the CH−F bond to occupy a pseudo‐axial orientation, consistent with stabilising σC−H→σC−F* interactions. The replacement of the symmetric [CH2−CH2] motif by [CF2−CHF] removes the conformational degeneracy intrinsic to the parent tetralin scaffold leading to a predictable half‐chair. The conformational behavior of this novel structural balance has been investigated by computational analysis and is consistent with stereoelectronic theory.
The Paradoxical Effects of COVID‐19 in Italian Systemic Practice: Clinical and Teaching ‘Insights’
Authors: Trotta Barbara , Mosconi Andrea
Published: March 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has impacted the personal and professional lives of all of us and has laid the bases for a social and cultural change. This article is written as a reflection on the paradoxical effects of the ‘viral phenomenon.’ We wish to highlight the opportunities and changes that have arisen from the emergency situation, especially through the use of the online setting, both in the clinical work and training activities of systemic therapists. This article is not intended to be a panegyric on the merits of digital sessions, but an appraisal, also through clinical examples, of the contributions that technology may give to our practices. We do not consider technology as a substitute, but as an integration and enrichment of the therapist's and trainer's tools. This tough experience may be transformed into an opportunity for learning new techniques and practices in which the screen becomes a useful support.
Prenatal maternal infection and risk for autism in offspring: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Tioleco Nina , Silberman Anna E. , Stratigos Katharine , Banerjee‐Basu Sharmila , Spann Marisa N. , Whitaker Agnes H. , Turner J. Blake
Published: March 2021

While prenatal maternal infection has received attention as a preventable and treatable risk factor for autism, findings have been inconsistent. This paper presents the results of a meta‐analysis to determine whether the weight of the evidence supports such an association. Studies with a categorical diagnosis of autism as the outcome and an assessment of its association with prenatal maternal infection or fever (or the data necessary to compute this association) were included. A total of 36 studies met these criteria. Two independent reviewers extracted data on study design, methods of assessment, type of infectious agent, site of infection, trimester of exposure, definition of autism, and effect size. Analyses demonstrated a statistically significant association of maternal infection/fever with autism in offspring (OR = 1.32; 95% CI = 1.20–1.46). Adjustment for evident publication bias slightly weakened this association. There was little variation in effect sizes across agent or site of infection. Small differences across trimester of exposure were not statistically significant. There was some evidence that recall bias associated with status on the outcome variable leads to differential misclassification of exposure status. Nonetheless, the overall association is only modestly reduced when studies potentially contaminated by such bias are removed. Although causality has not been firmly established, these findings suggest maternal infection during pregnancy confers an increase in risk for autism in offspring. Given the prevalence of this risk factor, it is possible that the incidence of autism would be reduced by 12%–17% if maternal infections could be prevented or safely treated in a timely manner.

Lay Summary

This study is a meta‐analysis of the association of maternal infection during pregnancy and subsequent autism in offspring. In combining the results from 36 studies of this association we find that a significant relationship is present. The association does not vary much across the types of infections or when they occur during pregnancy. We conclude that the incidence of autism could be substantially reduced if maternal infections could be prevented or safely treated in a timely manner.