bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A validation of Emotiv EPOC Flex saline for EEG and ERP research
Authors: Williams Nikolas S. , McArthur Genevieve M. , de Wit Bianca , Ibrahim George , Badcock Nicholas A.
Published: August 2020

Background

Previous work has validated consumer-grade electroencephalography (EEG) systems for use in research. Systems in this class are cost-effective and easy to set up and can facilitate neuroscience outside of the laboratory. The aim of the current study was to determine if a new consumer-grade system, the Emotiv EPOC Saline Flex, was capable of capturing research-quality data.

Method

The Emotiv system was used simultaneously with a research-grade EEG system, Neuroscan Synamps2, to collect EEG data across 16 channels during five well-established paradigms: (1) a mismatch negativity (MMN) paradigm that involved a passive listening task in which rare deviant (1,500 Hz) tones were interspersed amongst frequent standard tones (1,000 Hz), with instructions to ignore the tones while watching a silent movie; (2) a P300 paradigm that involved an active listening task in which participants were asked to count rare deviant tones presented amongst frequent standard tones; (3) an N170 paradigm in which participants were shown images of faces and watches and asked to indicate whether the images were upright or inverted; (4) a steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP) paradigm in which participants passively viewed a flickering screen (15 Hz) for 2 min; and (5) a resting state paradigm in which participants sat quietly with their eyes open and then closed for 3 min each.

Results

The MMN components and P300 peaks were equivalent between the two systems (BF10 = 0.25 and BF10 = 0.26, respectively), with high intraclass correlations (ICCs) between the ERP waveforms (>0.81). Although the N170 peak values recorded by the two systems were different (BF10 = 35.88), ICCs demonstrated that the N170 ERP waveforms were strongly correlated over the right hemisphere (P8; 0.87–0.97), and moderately-to-strongly correlated over the left hemisphere (P7; 0.52–0.84). For the SSVEP, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was larger for Neuroscan than Emotiv EPOC Flex (19.94 vs. 8.98, BF10 = 51,764), but SNR z-scores indicated a significant brain response at the stimulus frequency for both Neuroscan (z = 12.47) and Flex (z = 11.22). In the resting state task, both systems measured similar alpha power (BF10 = 0.28) and higher alpha power when the eyes were closed than open (BF10 = 32.27).

Conclusions

The saline version of the Emotiv EPOC Flex captures data similar to that of a research-grade EEG system. It can be used to measure reliable auditory and visual research-quality ERPs. In addition, it can index SSVEP signatures and is sensitive to changes in alpha oscillations.
Evolution of Mycotoxins during Maize Grains Storage in Triple Bags Containing Plants Biopesticides (Lippia multiflora and Hyptis suaveolens)
Authors: Gaël Yao Vanessa , Biego G. Henri Marius , Constant Konan K. , Leonce Niamketchi G. , Coulibaly Adama
Published: August 2020

In Côte d’Ivoire, maize plays an essential role as subsistence, commercial and socio-cultural culture. To consume good quality corn, it is necessary to preserve the sanitary quality through a good storage method. The aim of study was to evaluate sanitary quality of stored maize in triple bags containing plants biopesticides. Maize grains were collected in March 2016 in the north of Côte d’Ivoire. The fresh leaves of Lippia multiflora and Hyptis suaveolens were collected and dried in sunlight for 7 days in the center of Côte d'Ivoire. Triple bags were bought in Abidjan market. All this material was sent to the Laboratory of Biochemistry and Food Sciences, Félix Houphouët-Boigny University, Côte d’Ivoire, to perform the experiment. A central composite design was used for sample constitution. Ten treatments were obtained for the experimentation. The first treatment was conservation of 50 kg of maize grain in a polypropylene bag. The second treatment was conservation of 50 kg of maize grain in a triple bag. The other eight treatments were carried out with PICS bags each containing 50 kg of maize grain and different proportions of chopped leaves Lippia multiflora and Hyptis suaveolens. Thus, a control group with polypropylene bag (TPPB0), a control group in triple bag without biopesticides (TPB0) and 8 experimental lots of triple bags noted TB1 containing 0.625kg L. multiflora and 0.625kg H. suaveolens, TB2 with 0.40 kg of L. multiflora and 1.60 kg of H. suaveolens, TB3 with 1.60 kg of L. multiflora and 0.40 kg of H. suaveolens, TB4 with 0.10 kg of L. multiflora and 0.40 kg of H. suaveolens, TB5 with 0.40 kg of L. multiflora and 0.10 kg of H. suaveolens, TB6 with 2.5 kg of L. multiflora and 2.5 kg of H. suaveolens, TB7 with 1.25 kg of L. multiflora and TB8 with 1.25 kg of H. suaveolens have been used. The contents of moisture, water activity, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), ochratoxin A (OTA), fuminosin B1 (FB1) and zearalenone (ZEA) were studied. The levels of AFB1, OTA, FB1 and ZEA resulted from maize grains treated with biopesticides were significantly lower than those recorded with untreated maize of control bags. The results show AFB1 levels (from 4.17 ± 0.05 to 5.15 ± 0.06 μg/kg), OTA levels (from to 4.58 ± 0.25 to 6.10 ± 0.01 μg/kg), FB1 levels (from 4.96 ± 0.07 μg/kg to 7.42 ± 0.06 μg/kg) and ZEA levels (from 4.66 ± 0.10 μg/kg to 8.78 ± 0.14 μg/kg). Maize samples stored in triple bagged bags with different proportions of biopesticide were significantly lower than those recorded in the polypropylene woven sample bag (TPPB0) and in the triple bagged control bag (TPB0) during the storage period. Storage of maize grains in triple bags with the leaves of L. multiflora and H. suaveolens appears as a method of effective and inexpensive conservation to ensure the sanitary quality of maize. This inexpensive and easy-to-use treatment should be popularized among farmers.
Evaluation of Farmers’ Willingness to Pay (WTP) for Sesame Seed Driller Machine Rental Service in Kafta-Humera District, Western Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebre Yemane Hailu
Published: August 2020

The use of row planter in Ethiopia for sesame production is almost at the infant stage, and most seeds were typically sown through manual broadcasting as the tariff of imported agricultural machinery (row planter) is high. This shows that poor and small-scale farmers are unable to purchase row planter/sesame seed driller machine/ as its cost is expensive and their land is small. Hence, this study has assessed farmers' willingness to pay to rent sesame seed driller machine service by conducting a survey of 124 farmers in Kafta-humera district, western Tigray, Ethiopia. A survey questionnaire related to CVM was designed and face-to-face interviews were made to collect the data. The descriptive result showed that 85.48% of the farmers were willing to rent the Sesame seed driller machine with a mean of ETB 911.37 per hectare. The Probit regression results confirm that the educational level, access to extension service, the income of the household, and access to credit were the factors that affecting the farmers’ level of willingness to pay positively. However, the cultivable land size was negatively influencing willingness to rent sesame seed driller machine by the farmers. Regarding the perception of farmers, majority of the respondents were perceived positively particularly with the statements of “sesame seed driller machine decreases weed occurrence and makes easy to control weed, increases sesame grain yield and it makes farmers financially profitable". However, they perceived negatively on that it drills a higher seed rate and missed plant to some extent. The study, therefore, recommends encouraging well educated and better off people to engage in sesame farming, overhauling agricultural extension services. Moreover, it is suggested that investors, cooperatives or private companies should introduce sesame seed driller machine not only for themselves but also to rent service at a fair price.
Growth Performance of Giant Gourami (Osphronemus goramy) Fingerlings Cultured in Circular Containers with Water Current
Authors: Satriawan Rafi , Iskandar . , Bangkit B. S. Ibnu , Lili Walim
Published: August 2020

This research aims to determine the application of different water currents in a round container that can provide the most optimal effect on the growth rate of giant gourami (Osphronemus goramy) fingerlings. The method used in this research was an experimental method using a completely randomized design (CRD), which consists of three treatments and four replicates The treatment was the use of aeration stone in a round container A (control), B (water current 0.1 m s-1 in a round container) and C (water current 0.1 m s-1 combined with a venturi in a round container). The fish size used in this research was 2-3 cm obtained from Gourami and Nilem Breeding Centre, Singaparna, West Java Province. Fish were kept in water gallons with a volume of 19 L. Each gallon contained 30 fish. The feeding rate was 5% from biomass. The feed was given three times daily. Every ten days the weight data were collected and used for adjusting the feeding rate. The water quality during the research (40 days) was observed every seven days while survival rate, absolute weight growth, daily growth rate, feed conversion ratio and feed efficiency were observed every ten days. Based on the results of the research, the best reuslt was treatment C (water current of 0.1 m s-1 combined with venturi in a round container) had the highest survival rate (SR) of 58%, absolute weight growth (3.5 g), daily growth rate (1.69%), feed conversion ratio (2.01) and feed efficiency (50%).
Influence of Weather Parameters on Foliar Diseases of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) in Coastal Ecosystem of West Bengal, India
Authors: Adhikary Nayan Kishor , Roy Krishnendu , Biswas Kajal Kumar
Published: August 2020

Sesame is one of the most important oilseed crops in India due to mainly its high quality seed oil and antioxidant properties. Occurrence of foliar diseases, like Alternaria leaf spot and Cercospora leaf spot has become a major constraint in recent years for successful and profitable cultivation of sesame. Field experiments were conducted with sesame var. savitri in a factorial randomized block design with three different dates of sowing with 15 days interval and two different plant protection situations (Protected i.e., treated with disease control protocols and unprotected i.e., control), replicated four times, during two consecutive summer seasons of 2018 and 2019 at Agricultural Experimental Farm, Institute of Agricultural Science, University of Calcutta, Baruipur, South 24 Parganas. The diseases incidence was estimated and correlated with the weather parameters. The average of weather parameters viz., maximum temperature, minimum temperature, relative humidity (morning), relative humidity (evening) and rainfall prior to seven days of disease appearance were considered for study the correlation between the weather factors and the disease. In 2018, disease incidences of the plants shown at third date of sowing (26th April, 2018) in both the protected and unprotected plots had significant (P=.05) but negative correlation with maximum temperature. For plants sown at first date of sowing (27th March, 2018) in 2018 had disease incidences significantly (P=.05) and positively correlated with minimum temperature. However, in 2019, except for the relation between disease incidences in the unprotected plots and maximum temperature, all other disease-temperature correlations were non-significant. Disease incidences were positively and significantly correlated with relative humidity (both morning and evening) in all dates of sowing irrespective of experimental years, except with morning relative humidity at first date of sowing in first year. Total rainfall was positively and significantly correlated with disease incidences at all dates of sowing in 2018; however, such relation was non-significant in 2019.
Arsenic Mitigation Approach in Soil by Some Indigenous Sources of Biochar Made at Low Pyrolysis Temperature
Authors: Ferdousi N. , Huq S. M. Imamul
Published: August 2020

Biochar is being reported now a-days to potentially reduce the bioavailability of arsenic (As). A pot culture and an in vitro incubation study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of biochar produced from different sources (viz., cow dung, poultry manure and sewage sludge) at low temperature (250ºC) on the phytoavailability of As. An experimental setup containing two sets of treatments (As and no-As) were followed. Biochar was applied at the rate of 5t/ha to the soils that received As treatment at a rate of 1mg/L As (80% arsenite and 20% arsenate). After 45 days of growth of Kalmi (Ipomoea aquatica), plant and soil samples were analyzed. Biochar insignificantly increased plant growth.  Biochar was observed to be more effective in alleviating As accumulation in plant than the biomass. The incubation study was done for 0, 15, 30 and 45 days to diagnose the temporal sorption of water soluble As by biochars. All the biochar materials reduced As availability than their corresponding biomass materials. Measurement of different physical (e.g. surface area, morphology, elemental composition), chemical (CEC, nutrient content, As) and physicochemical (pH) properties of the biochar showed that through pyrolysis process nitrogen(N), sulfur (S), phosphorus (P) content and pH of the biomass decreased and on the other hand potassium (K), As content and CEC increased. Slow pyrolysis process and variation in biomass material influenced the properties and behavior of biochar. Among the biochars, sewage sludge biochar showed the maximum and cowdAsung showed the minimum sorption capacity for As. Due to the threat of As to health and environment, this topic requires more consideration.  Moreover, covering all the above issues, this study identifies research gaps in the use of biochar as an adsorbent for As and proposes potential areas for future application of biochar.
Demographic Factors Associated with Dengue in Saint Lucia
Authors: Lee Brendan
Published: August 2020

Aims: To identify demographic variables associated with dengue in Saint Lucia.

Study Design:  Retrospective quasi experimental study of secondary data.

Place and Duration of Study: Data was accessed from the Ministry of Health Saint Lucia, the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority and the Central Statistics Office Saint Lucia, 2011-2017.

Methodology: This study included 1869 cases tested for dengue between 2011 and 2017 identified through regular surveillance in Saint Lucia. There were 1310 confirmed cases, of which 667 were male and 643 were female. Data on education, employment, and unemployment levels, population density, hospital access and tourist arrivals were accessed from local Saint Lucian agencies to determine their relationships with the occurrence of dengue.

Results: The largest prevalence of dengue from the sample was found in the district of Castries (29.6%) and 25% of the cases occurring in the adult group (19-44). It was found that over 40 % of the dengue cases occurred in the population when between 12500 to 14000 persons (medium level) had tertiary education. Logistic regression of the data allowed the demonstration of strong significant relationships between age, the 13-18-year age group (P<.001, OR 4.091 [CI 2.628-6.369]) and tertiary education (P<.001, OR 4.785 [CI 2.896- 7.905]) and occurrence of dengue.

Conclusion: Age and education, along with other variables such as location, tourist visitor arrival, employment status, and population density were found to be associated with dengue in Saint Lucia. Further research is warranted to better characterize these relationships and understand how they could be used to develop predictive models for use in public health prevention programmes.
Studies on Storage Quality Evaluation of Dried Wild Pomegranate Arils (Anardana) Prepared in Mechanical Cabinet Drier
Authors: Thakur Abhimanyu , Thakur N. S. , Hamid .` , Kumar Pradeep , Gautam Sunakshi
Published: August 2020

Wild pomegranate (Punica granatum L.), fruit is widely found in hilly slopes of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir. It contains higher amount of acid content along with other quality characteristics. To exploit the appreciable amount of acid content in this fruit, a popular dried product known as anardana was prepared in mechanical cabinet drier from the fruits procured from Karsog area of Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India (1265 m above mean sea level). The anardana was packed in aluminium laminated pouch with vacuum (ALPV), aluminium laminated pouch (ALP) and gunny bags which were stored under ambient and refrigerated storage conditions so as to study the effect of packaging and storage on its quality. During storage, moisture, water activity, reducing sugars, NEB (Non enzymatic browning), HMF (Hydroxymethyl furfural) and furfural content increased whereas, TSS (Total soluble solids), titratable acidity, total sugars, ascorbic acid, anthocyanins, starch, total fibre and residual SO2 decreased during storage. After 12 months of storage period, higher retention of various quality characteristics was observed in anardana packed in ALPV followed by ALP and gunny bags. However, changes were slower in refrigerated storage conditions as compared to that under ambient conditions.
Breast Carcinoma- A Review
Authors: Rajkumar Shreya , Darwin P. , Karthikeyan C. T.
Published: August 2020

Breast malignancy has fast overtaken ovarian malignancy as the leading cause of death in women. A number of factors attribute to the rise in breast cancer, including obesity, food habits and carcinogen exposure. This article is a review of breast malignancy, and its pathological nature, and highlights the significance of axillary staging as a prognostic factor, and hence the importance of axillary investigation.
HÁ UMA DISCRICIONARIEDADE TÉCNICA?
Authors: Pereira Nobre Júnior Edilson
Published: August 2020

O presente artigo se propõe a discorrer sobre algo novo, mas com coração antigo, qual seja a natureza da atividade técnica desenvolvida pela Administração Pública, mostrando que, em regra, cuida-se de competência vinculada, a permitir seu exame pela jurisdição.

 
A JUDICIALIZAÇÃO DA POLÍTICA, A POLITIZAÇÃO DA JUSTIÇA E O PAPEL DO JUIZ NO ESTADO CONSTITUCIONAL SOCIAL E DEMOCRÁTICO DE DIREITO
Authors: Da Cunha Jr Dirley
Published: August 2020

O texto procura indicar a expansão da atribuição do Juiz como exigência da sociedade contemporânea, que tem dele reclamado um destacado dinamismo ou ativismo na efetivação dos preceitos constitucionais, em geral, e na defesa dos direitos humanos e valores substanciais, em especial. Essa demanda social tem propiciado um crescente reconhecimento do fenômeno do controle judicial das políticas públicas, por meio de uma intervenção do Poder Judiciário na análise dos programas políticos do Estado, a fim de aferir o seu cumprimento em face dos princípios e regras da Constituição. Busca demonstrar que nesse cenário de mudanças, exsurge, com considerável importância, o fenômeno relativo à judicialização da política, que só se tornou factível ante a politização da justiça e a redefinição do papel do Juiz na sociedade contemporânea.
RISCO SANITÁRIO E VONTADE HUMANA: APROXIMAÇÕES E COMPLEMENTARIDADES NO ESTILO DE VIDA CONTEMPORÂNEO
Authors: De Souza Delgado Joedson , Ferreira Filho Ottoni
Published: August 2020

Na história da vigilância sanitária, o risco sempre foi o cerne de sua atuação. Todavia, nunca vivemos em uma sociedade tão repleta de ameaças como a atual. O medo irracional penetra a vontade humana e amplifica o perigo de destruir a plena capacidade de analisar os riscos inerentes ao consumo insensato, tendo em vista que é dominado pelo sentimento e não pela razão. A proposta deste artigo tem por desiderato analisar o risco sanitário com seus elementos atuais à luz da aproximação dialética da ação volitiva entre a filosofia de Immanuel Kant e Arthur Schopenhauer que diferem nas perspectivas teóricas, mas que se aproximam em alguns aspectos e, assim, permitem a desconstrução da vulnerabilidade de itens reinantes na coletividade, como a incredulidade e a falta de sentido para a vida moderna. Com supedâneo na filosofia pragmática da linguagem e aporte interpretativo de outros estudiosos, pretendemos destacar que a vontade egoísta inata do ser humano com suas competições, intrigas e rivalidades, apenas torna o quadro do dano potencializado, devendo a Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária atuar em tal ambiente. 
CONCEITOS NECESSÁRIOS À COMPREENSÃO DAS CONTRIBUIÇÕES PARA A SEGURIDADE SOCIAL
Authors: Roberto Lyrio Pimenta Paulo
Published: August 2020

O presente estudo se destina ao exame dos principais conceitos, necessários ao estudo das contribuições para a Seguridade Social, localizados fora do âmbito tributário. Sem a sistematização dessas noções teóricas não se pode compreender os problemas relativos à exigência de tais tributos
FORMAÇÃO DO DIREITO TRIBUTÁRIO COMO DISCIPLINA JURÍDICA: RECORTES E EXCLUSÕES
Authors: De Barros Correia Neto Celso
Published: August 2020

O texto analisa os limites que definem o Direito Tributário, como ramo jurídico, especialmente sua separação em relação ao Direito Financeiro, e as implicações práticas e atuais que tais limitações trazem para o debate jurídico. Apontam-se dois tipos de recortes metodológicos. Os recortes externos excluem da análise jurídica do tributo considerações relativas à finalidade (Política) e à eficácia (Economia) e os recortes internos afastam a análise jurídica do tributo dos demais ramos jurídicos, inclusive o Direito Financeiro.
A MATRIZ CONSTITUCIONAL DO ADICIONAL DE ICMS DESTINADO AOS FUNDOS ESTADUAIS DE COMBATE À POBREZA: QUESTÕES CONTROVERSAS E A CONSTITUCIONALIZAÇÃO SUPERVENIENTE
Authors: Zancanaro Queiroz André , Aurélio Pereira Valadão Marcos , Moreira Lopes Rodrigo
Published: August 2020

Este artigo busca descrever os aspectos da competência constitucional para criar o adicional de ICMS destinado aos Fundos Estaduais de Combate à Pobreza, previsto nos artigos 82 e 83 do ADCT , acrescidos pelas Emendas Constitucionais nº 31, de 2000, e de nº 42, de 2003). Para tanto, critica-se a opção legislativa de incluir o texto no ADCT, tratando dos aspectos desta parte da Constituição. Aborda-se, ainda, a natureza deste adicional, enquanto tributo ou regra de destinação constitucional de impostos, sua aplicabilidade aos contribuintes optantes pelo regime privilegiado de tributação do Simples Nacional, além de outras questões relacionadas ao exercício desta competência legislativa. Por fim, investiga-se sobre a constitucionalização superveniente das leis estaduais que contrariam as regras constitucionais de competência instituída pelo artigo 4º da Emenda Constitucional nº 42, de 2003 e a possibilidade desta convalidação ocorrer por prazo indeterminado por aplicação da Emenda Constitucional nº 67, de 2010.
VALUES, MULTICULTURALISM AND SOCIAL POWER
Authors: José Casali Bahia Saulo
Published: August 2020

O artigo tem como objetivo discutir as três formas de relacionamento entre culturas: o universalismo cultural (monoculturalismo, integracionismo cultural ou assimilacionismo) e suas formas (exógeno e endógeno), o relativismo cultural e o multiculturalismo. Será discutida a crise do multiculturalismo, para concluir que as identidades de grupo não são categorias naturais, mas aprendidas, com o que elas podem ser abandonadas ou alteradas. Assim, identidades nacionais seriam úteis, mas apenas em determinadas circunstâncias. A comunidade de interesses e valores comuns requer uma cultura comum em aspectos básicos, a fim de permitir a convivência social. Após esta primeira conclusão, o artigo pretende discutir alguns aspectos dos centros formais de poder social. Assim, procura responder como um poder se torna institucionalizado em organizações sociais formais; qual é a fonte do poder político e como ele é convertido em instituições de governança; como o direito é gerado pela sociedade e como ele se desenvolve; como se dá o consentimento por aqueles que são governados; qual é o papel do sistema legal e dos direitos humanos na distribuição do poder social; e como a sociedade tem melhorado o acesso e a distribuição equitativa do poder nos últimos séculos.
A RELATIVIDADE CONTEMPORÂNEA PARA O EXERCÍCIO INTERNO DA SOBERANIA PELOS ESTADOS
Authors: Jorge P. de C. Lima Mário
Published: August 2020

O processo de globalização iniciado no século 20 tem realizado inúmeras alterações nos comportamentos sociais, entre estes, a redução do protagonismo solitário dos Estados na condução das sociedades, hoje partilhado com a atuação de atores não governamentais. O efeito do surgimento de fenômenos como a globalização e a participação de novos atores conduz a perceber o fim do exercício absoluto da soberania pelo estado, que passa a operar suas prerrogativas de modo relativo. Essa relatividade se verifica sobretudo na constatação de limites ao exercício externo da soberania pelos estados na comunidade internacional. No entanto, a causa da relatividade do exercício da soberania dos estados decorre dos efeitos dos fenômenos contemporâneos sobre o exercício da soberania no âmbito interno, ao interferir e limitar o conteúdo e funções essenciais da concepção pioneira da soberania como poder absoluto.
La resolución de conflictos de los ciudadanos con la administración pública a través del defensor del pueblo. Aproximación a las figuras del ombudsman español y portugués
Authors: Miranda Gonçalves Rubén
Published: August 2020

El Ombudsman nació, aproximadamente, en el año 1809 en Suecia. Desde entonces, otros países del entorno fueron configurando dicha institución en sus ordenamientos jurídicos internos como garante de la defensa de los derechos fundamentales y de las libertades públicas.

Las ventajas de que ofrece son varias: es un órgano independiente y no partidista, es el encargado de resolver las quejas específicas de los ciudadanos contra las injusticias y errores de la Administración Pública y, como órgano dotado de auctoritas, emite recomendaciones.

En el presente estudio, además de analizar la figura del Ombudsman español, se hace una pequeña referencia a la institución del Ombudsman portuguesa.
Diastereoselective Isomerization of (E)‐β‐Nitroenones into β‐Nitro‐β,γ‐Unsaturated Ketones under Microwave Conditions
Authors: Chiurchiù Elena , Xhafa Sonila , Ballini Roberto , Maestri Giovanni , Protti Stefano , Palmieri Alessandro
Published: August 2020

We report herein an unprecedented conversion of β‐nitroenones into β‐nitro‐β,γ‐unsaturated ketones. The reaction proceeds under microwave irradiation, furnishing products in good yields and excellent diastereoselectivity. The mechanism of the reaction has been rationalized by means of DFT modelling, which showed that sequential enolization/isomerization steps allowed to break the conjugation of the reagent. The E isomer is preferentially formed thanks to the solvent, which acts catalytically and dictates the regiochemical outcome. Moreover, the obtained β‐nitro‐β,γ‐unsaturated ketones have been efficiently converted into 1,2,5‐trisubstituted pyrroles by a one‐pot approach.

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Synthesis of Biquinolines via a Pd‐Catalyzed Borylation Reaction
Authors: Gupta Shiv S. , Sharma Krishna K. , Prajapati Manoj , Rathod Gajanan K. , Jain Rahul
Published: August 2020

Synthesis of biquinolines starting from easily available haloquinolines via a Pd‐catalyzed borylation reaction in the presence of inexpensive bis(pinacolato)diboron is described. The reaction involves Pd(dppf)Cl2 ⋅ CH2Cl2‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of haloquinolines with bis(pinacolato)diboron to afford in situ generated heteroarylboronates. The intermediate heteroarylboronates immediately undergoes homocoupling to afford biquinolines in good to excellent yields in short reaction time. The scope of the reaction was demonstrated by its successful extension to structurally related N‐heterocycles.
Exposure to environmental black carbon exacerbates nasal epithelial inflammation via the reactive oxygen species (ROS)–nucleotide‐binding, oligomerization domain–like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3)–caspase‐1–interleukin 1β (IL‐1β) pathway
Authors: Li Ying , Ouyang Yuhui , Jiao Jian , Xu Zhaojun , Zhang Luo
Published: August 2020

Background

Allergic rhinitis(AR) is an increasing challenge to public health worldwide. Exposure to environmental black carbon (BC) is associated with increased risk of allergic rhinitis, but the molecular mechanisms underlying its toxicity have not been fully elucidated. The aims of the present study were therefore to determine the effect of BC on the expression of interleukin 1β (IL‐1β) and to investigate the mechanism underlying BC‐induced IL‐1β production in pollen‐sensitized human nasal epithelial cells (hNECs).

Methods

Nasal mucosal samples collected from 10 patients undergoing nasal surgery were used to isolate and culture epithelial cells as air‐liquid interface (ALI) cultures. Cultures exposed to BC ± pollen allergen for 24 hours were assessed for the presence of IL‐1β, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and activation of the nucleotide‐binding, oligomerization domain–like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Furthermore, the mechanisms underlying BC ± pollen allergen–induced IL‐1β in hNECs were evaluated.

Results

Exposure to BC significantly increased the production of IL‐1β and ROS and the expression of NLRP3 in hNECs, compared with control, all of which were significantly increased further by exposure to a combination of BC and pollen. Incubation of hNECs with N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) significantly attenuated BC ± pollen‐induced expression of ROS, NLRP3, and IL‐1β. NLRP3 and Caspase‐1 inhibitors (MCC950 and YVAD) significantly inhibited IL‐1β expression and NLRP3 activation, but not NLRP3 expression following exposure to BC ± pollen.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that exposure to BC and pollen can exaggerate oxidative stress and significantly increase the expression of IL‐1β in hNECs, and that this may involve a pathway integrating ROS–NLRP3–Caspase‐1–IL‐1β signaling.
Modification of the wood‐plastic composite for enhancement of formaldehyde clearance and the 3D printing application
Authors: Jiang Qi , Xu Yifan , Chen Mingliang , Meng Qinghua , Zhang Chongyin
Published: August 2020

As the formaldehyde is one of the main indoor pollutants, the purpose of this study is to effectively remove indoor formaldehyde pollution by using environmentally friendly 3D printing ornaments. The wood 3D printing filaments cellulose/polylactic acid composite (Cellu/P) was selected as the starting material, and 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) was used for chemical modification to obtain a series of cellulose composite materials with amino groups. The modified composite materials (APTES@Cellu/P) were characterized by Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and mechanical tests, and a formaldehyde removal experiment was performed. The feasibility of 3D printing was evaluated, and the process of 3D printing‐functionalized customized ornaments was proposed, and then a school emblem was used for modeling, printing, and surface modification. Compared with the commercially traditional activated carbon, 3D printing‐customized ornaments of APTES@Cellu/P material has a better formaldehyde removal effect, and can even avoid the secondary pollution that is common to the activated carbon.
Low‐cycle fatigue behavior of flexible3Dprinted thermoplastic polyurethane blends for thermal energy storage/release applications
Authors: Rigotti Daniele , Dorigato Andrea , Pegoretti Alessandro
Published: August 2020

Thermal energy storage (TES) materials constituted by a microencapsulated paraffin having a melting temperature of 6°C and a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) matrix were prepared through fused deposition modeling. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs demonstrated that the microcapsules were homogeneously distributed within the matrix, with a rather good adhesion within the layers of 3D printed specimens, even at elevated concentrations of microcapsules. The presence of paraffin capsules having a rigid polymer shell lead to a stiffness increase, associated to a decrease in the stress and in the strain at break. Tensile and compressive low‐cycles fatigue tests showed that the presence of microcapsules negatively affected the fatigue resistance of the samples, and that the main part of the damage occurred in the first fatigue cycles. After the first 10 loading cycles at 50% of the stress at break, a decrease in the elastic modulus ranging from 60% for neat TPU to 80% for composite materials was detected. This decrease reached 40% of the original value at 90% of the stress at break after 10 cycles. Differential scanning calorimetry tests on specimens after fatigue loading highlighted a substantial retention of the original TES capability, in the range of 80%–90% of the pristine value, even after 1000 cycles, indicating that the integrity of the capsules was maintained and that the propagation of damage during fatigue tests took probably place within the surrounding polymer matrix. It could be therefore concluded that it is possible to apply the developed blends in applications where the materials are subjected to cyclic stresses, both in tensile and compressive mode.
From 2D Graphene Nanosheets to 3D Graphene‐based Macrostructures
Authors: Mohd Firdaus Rabita , Berrada Nawal , Desforges Alexandre , Mohamed Abdul Rahman , Vigolo Brigitte
Published: August 2020

The combination of exceptional functionalities offered by 3D graphene‐based macrostructures (GBMs) has attracted tremendous interest. 2D graphene nanosheets have a high chemical stability, high surface area and customizable porosity, which was extensively researched for a variety of applications including CO2 adsorption, water treatment, batteries, sensors, catalysis, etc. Recently, 3D GBMs have been successfully achieved through few approaches, including direct and non‐direct self‐assembly methods. In this review, the possible routes used to prepare both 2D graphene and interconnected 3D GBMs are described and analyzed regarding the involved chemistry of each 2D/3D graphene system. Improvement of the accessible surface of 3D GBMs where the interface exchanges are occurring is of great importance. A better control of the chemical mechanisms involved in the self‐assembly mechanism itself at the nanometer scale is certainly the key for a future research breakthrough regarding 3D GBMs.
Exfoliation of Na2Ti3O7 into Colloidal Nanosheets with Enhanced Discharge Capacity
Authors: Lee Won‐Jae , Lee Minseop , Paek Seung‐Min
Published: August 2020

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), which are being considered as possible alternatives to lithium‐ion batteries, have attracted great scientific and industrial interest because sodium is inexpensive and more abundant than lithium. Among various anode materials for SIBs, Na2Ti3O7, with a layered structure, has a high potential due to its stable electrochemical sodiation/desodiation behavior. However, Na2Ti3O7 has a large band‐gap energy and a zigzag framework, which results in low electrical conductivity and poor sodium‐ion diffusion. Thus, to circumvent such drawbacks, in this study, Na2Ti3O7 was successfully exfoliated by the soft‐chemical exfoliation technique via a two‐step intercalation reaction. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies show that the obtained exfoliated material is composed of thin nanosheets. Electrochemical sodium‐ion storage tests showed that the exfoliated nanosheets had a much higher discharge capacity than bare bulk Na2Ti3O7, revealing that the exfoliation process could be utilized to develop new electrode materials with enhanced energy‐storage properties.
Improving MOOC learning performance in China: An analysis of factors from the TAM and TPB
Authors: Wang Yanrong , Dong Chunyu , Zhang Xiaowen
Published: August 2020

Recent years have seen a rapid development in the integration of information technology into China's higher education provision. Massive open online courses (MOOCs) have played a vital role in spreading and sharing educational content in China, but problems have been identified with sustaining the learning process, leading to low completion rates. This study integrates the technology acceptance model and the theory of planned behavior to build a theoretical model of the mechanism behind MOOC learning performance. Data were collected from an online questionnaire (N = 638) completed by participants in MOOCs offered by Anhui Agricultural University. Structural equation modeling was then used to analyze the participants' self‐reported MOOC learning experience and outcomes and verify the hypothesized path to improving MOOC learning performance. The results indicate that perceived usefulness, learning attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and learning behavior had significant effects on learning performance, while perceived ease of use was not a significant factor.
The impact of using program visualization techniques on learning basic programming concepts at the K–12 level
Authors: Mladenović Monika , Žanko Žana , Aglić Čuvić Marin
Published: August 2020

Novices enrolled in introductory programming courses often face many difficulties. These difficulties are more emphasized when novices are K–12 students. Many new visual programming languages have primarily been designed to provide a smooth introduction to programming for children. However, at some point, a general‐purpose text‐based programming language should be used. A well‐known and studied method is to visualize program execution to assist novices in forming correct mental models. Although many studies have investigated the effects of using visualizations in teaching and learning, most of them focus on courses taught at the university level. Studies that focus on investigating the impact of program visualizations at the K–12 level are, to the best of our knowledge, scarce. Therefore, we investigated the impact of using program visualizations with a group of K–12 students. Because of the underrepresentation of girls in computer science and known gender stereotypes, we additionally investigated student performance based on gender. Our research included 98 fifth‐grade students from three elementary schools. The lectures in the experimental group included different visualization techniques, including a program visualization tool and PowerPoint animations, whereas the control group had no program visualizations. All students learned Python as part of their curriculum. We present the results of our research in this paper.
When do low‐power customers complain? The joint effects of chronic sense of personal power and complaint success on complaining intentions
Authors: Popelnukha Anastasia , Weng Qingxiong (Derek) , Ali Ahmed , Atamba Cynthia
Published: August 2020

In the customer complaint literature, researchers have found that the lack of an incidental sense of power is one of the reasons why customers do not complain. However, two issues are left unanswered: does a chronic sense of power influence consumer complaining behavior, and how individuals who feel chronically powerless can be encouraged to complain when dissatisfied. The present study is intended to address this topic. Drawing on the approach–inhibition theory of power, we argue that the probability of complaint success increases the complaint behavior of customers with a low chronic sense of power, thereby mitigating the differences in the complaint behavior of consumers with low and high power. The three studies indicated that a low chronic power was negatively associated with complaining intentions and that this association was mitigated by the perceived success of complaining.
Multiple cutaneous ulcers revealing a primary cutaneous Epstein‐Barr virus‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Tedbirt Billal , Dubois Sydney , Cellier Lucie , Carvalho Priscille , Stamatoullas Aspasia , Courville Philippe , Deschamps‐Huvier Aurélie , Etancelin Pascaline , Deniel Anne , Tilly Hervé , Jardin Fabrice , Joly Pascal , Camus Vincent
Published: August 2020

Primary cutaneous EBV‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma is an exceptional and aggressive neoplasia with a poorer prognosis than other cutaneous lymphoma. Our observation points out the rarity of the presentation and the dismal clinical course.
MoC nanoclusters anchored Ni@N‐doped carbon nanotubes coated on carbon fiber as three‐dimensional and multifunctional electrodes for flexible supercapacitor and self‐heating device
Authors: Liu Fan , He Jietong , Liu Xiaoyu , Chen Yuke , Liu Zhen , Chen Duo , Liu Hong , Zhou Weijia
Published: August 2020

With the rapid development of different kinds of wearable electronic devices, flexible and high‐capacity power sources have attracted increasing attention. In this study, a facile strategy to fabricate Ni nanoparticles embedded in N‐doped carbon nanotubes (CNTs) (Ni@NCNTs) homogeneously coated on the surface of carbon fiber with a multistructural component of molybdenum carbide (MoC/Ni@NCNTs/CC) was synthesized. There are two forms of MoC in MoC/Ni@NCNTs/CC, including the MoC nanoclusters in a size of 2 to 4 nm anchored on Ni@N‐doped CNTs and the MoC nanoparticles as an interface between MoC/Ni@NCNTs and carbon cloth (CC). Multifunctional MoC/Ni@NCNTs/CC served as both positive and negative electrode and a heater in flexible supercapacitors and in wearable devices, which exhibited excellent electrochemical and heating performance. Besides, an all‐solid‐state supercapacitor consists of two pieces of MoC/Ni@NCNTs/CC that exhibited extraordinary energy storage performance with high‐energy density (78.7 µWh/cm2 at the power density of 2.4 mW/cm2) and excellent cycling stability (≈91% capacity retention after 8000 cycles). Furthermore, all‐solid‐state flexible supercapacitors were incorporated with an MoC/Ni@NCNTs/CC electrode into self‐heating flexible devices for keeping the human body warm. Thus, MoC/Ni@NCNTs/CC is a promising electrode material for flexible and wearable storage systems and heating electronic application.
Synthesis, Purification, and Characterization of a Structured Lipid Based on Soybean Oil and Coconut Oil and Its Applications in Curcumin‐Loaded Nanoemulsions
Authors: Ji Shengyang , Wu Jin , Xu Feiran , Wu Ying , Xu Xiaoying , Gao Houbin , Ju Xingrong , Xiong Wenfei , Wang Lifeng
Published: August 2020

Single natural vegetable oils may have some drawbacks in terms of structure and function. Enzymatic interesterification can greatly improve the quality of natural vegetable oils. In this study, soybean oil (SO) and coconut oil (CO) are combined to synthesize structured lipids (SLs) using Lipozyme RM IM as a catalyst to modify the structure of coconut oil, which can make coconut oil have better physicochemical properties. A total of 55.73% structured lipids of total triacylglycerols are synthesized under the optimum reaction conditions. The main fatty acids of SL‐SOCO are linoleic (C18:2, 37.11%), oleic (C18:1, 21.73%), and lauric (C12:0, 14.05%). The most abundant TAG species in SL‐SOCO are (14:0‐18:1‐18:3), (12:0‐14:0‐18:3), and (14:0‐14:0‐18:3) with the relative content of 10.56%, 7.13%, and 5.52%, respectively. Compared to the crystallization curves of SOCO, SL‐SOCO showed a delayed crystallization and a decreased enthalpy. Moreover, the curcumin nanocarrier prepared by SL‐SOCO as the oil phase has good stability, encapsulation efficiency (91.12%), and improved bioavailability (54.02%). To conclude, SL‐SOCO with monounsaturated fatty acid, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and medium‐chain fatty acids has good structural composition and SL‐SOCO nanoparticles have excellent applications in drug delivery system.

Practical Applications: The prepared SLs can be used as one kind of functional lipids, which has the potential to improve lipid metabolism. In addition, it can be used as an oil phase to prepare carriers for encapsulating active substances, which have good stability, improved encapsulation efficiency, and bioavailability.
Sensor application of mobile nursing integrated workstation measurement system based on SOA architecture model in nursing information management
Authors: Fu Ailan , Han Huifang
Published: August 2020

Based on the current status of the mobile medical market, combined with the specific needs of clinical care, this article analyzes the needs and business models of mobile nursing integrated workstations in detail, and combines the user's usage habits with the SOA architecture implemented by WebService. XML, as a standard format for data exchange between heterogeneous systems, and the data exchange method of ORACLE object technology, complete the interaction of data information; and use mobile intelligent devices to achieve the first‐time data collection at the bedside, and design mobile care integration workstation.
MHD nonlinear natural convection flow of a micropolar nanofluid past a nonisothermal rotating disk
Authors: Ibrahim Wubshet , Zemedu Chaluma
Published: August 2020

The aim of this analysis is to examine the steady, laminar boundary layer flow of a micropolar nanofluid owing to a rotating disk in the presence of a magnetic field and thermal and solutal nonlinear convection and nonisothermal parameters. The governing joined partial differential equations are converted into nonlinear ordinary differential equations by means of available transformations. The equations are calculated using the method bvp4c from Matlab software. The convergence test has been maintained; for the number of spots greater than the appropriate mesh number of points, the precision is not influenced, but the set time is boosted. Moreover, various quantities of the main parameters on skin friction coefficients, wall couple stress coefficients, Nusselt number, Sherwood number, velocities, temperature, and concentration of nanofluid are analyzed by means of tables and graphs. The results indicate that the presence of the nonisothermal parameter boosts the radial skin friction, temperature, and Sherwood number but causes decaying concentration distributions, the azimuthal skin friction coefficient, and Nusselt number that indicate the diffusion of momentum occurs more around the surface of the rotating disk.
The failed promise of IeCT for development: Aunt Ofelia replies to her letter 20 years later
Authors: Gomez Ricardo
Published: August 2020

This paper reflects on the nature of social changes brought about by information and communication technologies for development (ICTD or ICT4D) over the past two decades. We respond to the 2002 Letter to Aunt Ofelia, a publication that resulted from collective workshop of ICTD practitioners in Latin America. The Letter to Aunt Ofelia, written in the form of a letter to an imaginary aunt, presented seven proposals for equitable development using ICT. In this note, we use the epistolary format again as a response from the imaginary aunt, to present 10 challenges that represent failures and setbacks of ICT working against rather than for human development. These challenges pertain to commerce, services, media, surveillance, algorithmic control, addiction, misinformation, acceleration, loneliness, and environmental degradation. These 10 issues deserve our critical attention and creative energies if we are to truly harness the power of ICT for human development with equity, prosperity, and social justice.