bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Diarrhoea in a Nigerian Community: Prevalence, Risk Factors and Associated Quality of Life
Authors: Jemilohun Abiodun Christopher , Elikwu Charles John , Adeleye Olufunke Oluwatosin , Ajiro Theophilus Oludare , Fasesan Oluwatoyin Adetutu , Akande Kolawole Oluseyi
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Diarrhoea, in general, is well investigated but the epidemiology of Functional Diarrhoea (FDr) as a disease entity has not been adequately evaluated globally, and more especially, in the sub-Saharan African population. Aim: To determine the prevalence and risk factors of FDr, and the associated quality of life in a Nigerian community. Materials and Methods: The study was a community-based cross-sectional survey involving 515 consenting adults aged 18-70 years. Data collection was done from February to March 2019. Ten participants were excluded because of inappropriately filled questionnaires, thus leaving a total of 505 subjects. The research instrument contained sociodemographic information, the Rome IV Functional Bowel Disorder questionnaire, the Short Form 12, version 2 Health Survey (SF-12v2) questionnaire, the Beck Depression and Anxiety Inventories, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Early Trauma Inventory-Self Report. Respondents who were positive for FDr were the cases while those who had no FDr were the controls in the data analysis. Independent Student t-test was used to compare means. The odds ratios of prospective risk factors of FDr were calculated with logistic regression. Odds Ratios (OR) >1 and p-value ≤0.05 were considered significant. Results: The mean age of the participants was 32.7±12.9 years. Six participants {1.2% (95% CI, 0.4%-2.4%)} had FDr with a 1:2 Male/Female ratio. Functional diarrhoea had a statistically significant association with depression (18.0±12.8 vs 8.2±9.5, p-value=0.021) only among the possible risk factors considered. The mean SF-12v2 scale scores, except Vitality, were lower in subjects with FDr than the controls, though only Social Functioning was statistically significant (p-value=0.003). Conclusion: The prevalence of FDr is low in the present study population. The disease is associated with depression and it impacts the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) negatively.
The Gray Never Married: An Integrative Review
Authors: Hamedanchi Arya , Khankeh Hamid Reza , Momtaz Yadollah Abolfathi , Zanjari Nasibeh
Published: February 2021

Introduction: The increasing marriage age in societies can have many consequences, one of which is the emerging phenomenon of singlehood in older age. Meanwhile, most of the available studies on the never married older adults; have only focused on a limited area of their life and many of the results are not consistent. Aim: To classify the results of various studies on the characteristics of never married older adults and to identify the gaps in the literature with a holistic approach. Materials and Methods: An integrative review method was utilised for gathering and analysing data from February 2019 to August 2019. A total of 1007 articles were extracted by searching PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest and other available records. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, ultimately 40 related articles (published between 1975 and 2019), were selected and analysed. The extracted findings were coded and classified into the sub and main categories. Results: In the analysis step, 33 of the extracted articles had a quantitative approach and only seven of them had used qualitative or mixed methods. The relevant results in the articles were coded and clustered in 11 subcategories and three main categories of “as well as others”, “singleness as a premium” and “downsides”. These clusters illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of being single in later life as reported in the reviewed studies. Conclusion: The study discusses consistent as well as contradictory results. Most studies on the never married older adult are quantitative and have been conducted in developed countries. The controversial and unknown perspectives should be explored in further researches, using different approaches.
Congenital Lacrimal Fistula in a Seven-Year-Old Female: A Rare Cause of Epiphora
Authors: Kher Praveena , Motwani Jigna
Published: February 2021

Congenital lacrimal fistulas are rare epithelium-lined tracts that tend to have a direct communication between skin and the lacrimal drainage system. These are benign developmental abnormalities, that may require no treatment. This is a rare diagnosis since patients are usually asymptomatic and presents only when epiphora is associated. When symptomatic, congenital lacrimal fistula presents as epiphora, or mucoid discharge, rarely patients could develop nasolacrimal duct obstruction, which may present as recurrent dacryocystitis. Thorough clinical examination is the best way to diagnose the condition, where a fistula ostium may be found inferonasal to medial canthus of the eye. Further, lacrimal probing and irrigation is helpful. Surgical management of the fistula is advised only if the disease is symptomatic which ranges from simple excision to dacryocystorhinostomy. This is a report of one such patient with congenital lacrimal fistula which was treated surgically by fistulectomy.
Aetiological Subclassification of Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Mahfoz Turki M Bin , Alandejani Talal
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a major health problem with very high prevalence worldwide. The information available about the pathophysiology of the disease is not enough to allow development of curative therapies. Classification of CRS is based on the presence of asthma and allergy that can be useful to understand the disease aetiology and allow better patient’s care through individualised treatment plans. Aim: To classify CRS cases into subgroups depending mainly on the presence of asthma and allergy in addition to comparing the characteristics of these subgroups. Materials and Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was carried out, and the data of CRS’ patients were collected from medical records of consecutive patients attending the ENT clinic in, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Saudi Arabia. Based on collected data, CRS cases were classified into six subclasses, and patients’ characteristics such as gender and Immunoglobulin E (IgE) values in these subclasses were compared. Data entry and statistical analysis was carried out in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Mean, Standard Deviation (±SD) for numerical parametric variables and Inter-Quartile Range (IQR) for numerical non-parametric variables was calculated. Appropriate statistical tests like Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) for parametric data and Kruskal Wallis test for non-parametric were applied. Results: The most prevalent subclass was Non-Asthmatic Sinusitis without Allergy (NASsA) 30 (48.4%) followed by, Asthmatic Sinusitis Without Allergy (ASsA) 13 (21.0%), Asthmatic Sinusitis With Allergy (AScA) 6 (9.7%), Non-Asthmatic Sinusitis With Allergy (NAScA) 5 (8.1%) and Allergic Fungal Sinusitis (AFS) 5 (8.1%). The highest levels of total IgE were found in patients with NAScA. It was found that nasal polyps’ presence was significantly linked to higher Computed Tomography (CT) Lund-Macky scores and MASNOT (Modified Arabic Sino-Nasal Outcome Test) scores. Conclusion: Classification of CRS based on the presence of asthma and allergy can be an informative tool for providing better care to CRS patients.
Identifying Landmark Achievements in Primary Eye Care Promotion in Nigeria in Accordance with Alma – Ata Declaration of 1978: A Review
Authors: Moyegbone J. E. , Nwose E. U. , Nwajei S. D. , Agege E. A. , Odoko J. O. , Igumbor E. O. , Akuirene O. A.
Published: February 2021

Background: Alma Ata declaration form the bed rock that link primary health care (PHC) and health promotion to enable individuals and communities to increase control over the determinants of health. The declaration is meant to address the main health problems in the community by providing promotive, preventive, curative and rehabilitative services including visual impairment.

Objective: To evaluate the landmark achievement of eye health promotion for prevention of visual impairment in Nigeria.

Methods: A non-systematic review of published literatures was adopted to develop this narrative review. Literatures searches were done through PubMed, google scholar and biomed central. Search terms included primary eye care (PEC), health promotion and Nigeria. 45 articles were reviewed.

Results: Landmark achievement includes elimination of blinding trachoma and onchocerciasis as a public health problem following the treatment of 120 million people. Evaluation of the collaboration between Sightsavers, UK and the Ministry of Health in Sokoto State (Northern Nigeria) on VISION 2020 – Right to Sight program; showed an increase in the proportion of persons aged 50 years and over without visual impairment from 54.7% in 2005 to 77.3% in 2016. The prevalence of blindness in same age range declined from an estimated 11.6% to 6.8%, severe VI from 14.2% to 4.3% and moderate VI from 19.5% to 11.4%. A reduction in the estimated all‑age blindness prevalence by more than a half from 2.0% in 2005 to approximately 0.75% in 2016 was reported. No known similar evaluation was surveyed in the southern part of Nigeria to the knowledge of the researchers. However, non-integration of eye health promotional policy into PHC have left the Nigerian population in the miry clay of sustained prevalence of avoidable visual impairment.

Conclusion: Alma Ata Declaration called on all governments to formulate national policies, strategies and plans of action to launch and sustain primary healthcare, integration of PEC and eye health promotional policies into PHC system to reduce the public health burden of avoidable visual impairment.
Effects of body size, diet, and transience on the demography of the arboreal boid snake Corallus grenadensis on Carriacou (Grenada Grenadines, West Indies)
Authors: Henderson Robert W. , Hileman Eric T. , Sajdak Richard A. , Harrison Billie C. , Powell Robert , Bradke Danielle R.
Published: February 2021

Remarkably little is known about the demography of snakes in the family Boidae. This lack of information may be attributed, in part, to low population densities on the Neotropical mainland, rendering capture‐recapture methods impractical for many species. Conversely, islands support fewer species but snake densities can be much higher. Corallus grenadensis is an arboreal boid endemic to the Grenada Bank and, relative to mainland boids, can be amazingly abundant. As young, its diet is comprised largely of native Anolis lizards, a ubiquitous and abundant food source; it then undergoes an ontogenetic shift in diet to a less abundant resource, rodents. From 2015 to 2019, we marked 254 C. grenadensis and used capture–recapture models to estimate abundance, capture probabilities, survival, and the proportion of transients. We hypothesized that the transient effect would increase with body size (snout–vent length [SVL]), prompted by their ontogenetic shift in diet. Capture probabilities increased with sampling effort and decreased with increasing SVL. Abundance ranged from 96 to 141 individuals and annual resident survival was 0.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.54–0.83. The proportion of transients increased with increasing SVL, with the estimate being distinguishable from zero starting at ~810 mm SVL, coinciding with the size at which their dietary shift from ectothermic to endothermic prey begins. Ontogenetic dietary shifts are widespread in snakes and occur in at least 11 of 17 species of West Indian boids. Thus, the prominence of transients in our study may be indicative of its demographic and ecological importance among other snake species.
Lysine 268 adjacent to transmembrane helix 5 of hamster P‐glycoprotein is the major photobinding site of iodomycin in CHO B30 cells
Authors: Demmer Annette , Thole Hubert , Raida Manfred , Tümmler Burkhard
Published: February 2021

P‐glycoprotein (Pgp) detoxifies cells by exporting hundreds of chemically dissimilar hydrophobic and amphipathic compounds and is implicated in multidrug resistance (MDR) in the treatment of cancers. Photoaffinity labeling of plasma membrane vesicles of MDR CHO B30 cells with the anthracycline [125I]‐iodomycin, subsequent sequential cleavage with BNPS‐skatol and endoproteinase Lys‐C, and the Edman sequencing of the purified photoaffinity‐labeled peptide identified the lysine residue at position 268 in the hamster Pgp primary sequence as the major photobinding site of iodomycin in CHO B30 cells. Lysine 268 is located adjacent to the cytosolic terminus of transmembrane 5. According to thermodynamic and kinetic analyses, this location should present the equilibrium binding site of ATP‐free Pgp for daunomycin and iodomycin in B30 cells.
Knowledge‐based planning in robotic intracranial stereotactic radiosurgery treatments
Authors: Yu Suhong , Xu Huijun , Zhang Yin , Zhang Xin , Dyer Michael A. , Hirsch Ariel E. , Tam Truong Minh , Zhen Heming
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To develop a knowledge‐based planning (KBP) model that predicts dosimetric indices and facilitates planning in CyberKnife intracranial stereotactic radiosurgery/radiotherapy (SRS/SRT).

Methods

Forty CyberKnife SRS/SRT plans were retrospectively used to build a linear KBP model which correlated the equivalent radius of the PTV (req_PTV) and the equivalent radius of volume that receives a set of prescription dose (req_Vi, where Vi = V10%, V20% … V120%). To evaluate the model’s predictability, a fourfold cross‐validation was performed for dosimetric indices such as gradient measure (GM) and brain V50%. The accuracy of the prediction was quantified by the mean and the standard deviation of the difference between planned and predicted values, (i.e., ΔGM = GMpred − GMclin and fractional ΔV50% = (V50%pred − V50%clin)/V50%clin) and a coefficient of determination, R2. Then, the KBP model was incorporated into the planning for another 22 clinical cases. The training plans and the KBP test plans were compared in terms of the new conformity index (nCI) as well as the planning efficiency.

Results

Our KBP model showed desirable predictability. For the 40 training plans, the average prediction error from cross‐validation was only 0.36 ± 0.06 mm for ΔGM, and 0.12 ± 0.08 for ΔV50%. The R2 for the linear fit between req_PTV and req_vi was 0.985 ± 0.019 for isodose volumes ranging from V10% to V120%; particularly, R2 = 0.995 for V50% and R2 = 0.997 for V100%. Compared to the training plans, our KBP test plan nCI was improved from 1.31 ± 0.15 to 1.15 ± 0.08 (P < 0.0001). The efficient automatic generation of the optimization constraints by using our model requested no or little planner’s intervention.

Conclusion

We demonstrated a linear KBP based on PTV volumes that accurately predicts CyberKnife SRS/SRT planning dosimetric indices and greatly helps achieve superior plan quality and planning efficiency.
Mechanism of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticle Interaction with Hairy Root Cultures during Nanoharvesting of Biomolecules
Authors: Khan Md Arif , Fugate Madeleine , Rogers Dennis T. , Sambi Jatinder , Littleton John M. , Rankin Stephen E. , Knutson Barbara L.
Published: February 2021

Cellular uptake and expulsion mechanisms of engineered mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) are important in their design for novel biomolecule isolation and delivery applications such as nanoharvesting, defined as using nanocarriers to transport and isolate valuable therapeutics (secondary metabolites) out of living plant organ cultures (e.g., hairy roots). Here, temperature‐dependent MSNP uptake and recovery processes in hairy roots are examined as a function of surface chemistry. MSNP uptake into hairy roots and time‐dependent expulsion are quantified using Ti content (present for biomolecule binding) and fluorescence spectroscopy of fluorescently tagged MSNPs, respectively. The results suggest that functionalization and surface charge (regulated by amine group attachment) play the biggest role in the effectiveness of uptake and recovery. Comparison of MSNP interactions with hairy roots at 4 and 23 °C shows that weakly charged MSNPs functionalized only with Ti are taken up and expelled by thermally activated mechanisms, while amine‐modified positively charged particles are taken up and expelled mainly by direct penetration of cell walls. Amine‐functionalized MSNPs move spontaneously in and out of plant cells by dynamic exchange with a residence time of 20 ± 5 min, suggesting promise as a biomolecule nanoharvesting platform for plant organ cultures.
Modeling of Alloying Effect on Isothermal Transformation: A Case Study for Pearlitic Steel
Authors: Qiao Ling , Zhu Jingchuan , Wang Yuan
Published: February 2021

Machine learning (ML) has been rapidly revolutionizing many fields and plays a vital role in materials science. To understand the microstructure of steels and even obtain optimized processing parameters, accurate predictions on the time–temperature–transformation (TTT) diagram are in urgent need. Herein, artificial neural network (ANN), support vector machine (SVM), and extreme learning machine (ELM) models are developed and compared for quantitatively predicting typical features, such as the nose tip temperature and incubation period, of TTT diagrams for pearlitic steels. As an important evaluating indicators of prediction accuracy, the correlation coefficient (R2), the root mean square error (RMSE), and the mean absolute percent error (MAPE) are used to evaluate the proposed models. The results show that the proposed SVM model exhibits higher prediction accuracy compared with the ANN and ELM and demonstrates the advantage of the machine learning approach in predictions of TTT diagrams. Moreover, a series of experiments demonstrate that the proposed SVM predictor performs favorably, with satisfactory prediction accuracy. The microstructures of the isothermal transformation products of the prepared pearlitic steel are investigated using dilatation and microscopy technique.
Recent Trends and Prospects in the Copper‐Catalysed “on Water” Reactions
Authors: Shilpa Thomas , Neetha Mohan , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: February 2021

Recalling the serious hazards imposed by the “ungreen” techniques used over the years, chemists are now expected to adopt synthetic tactics that strictly adhere to the three E's of green chemistry: Environmental, Economical and Energy efficient. Among the various measures undertaken to improve the benignity of a chemical system, top priority has been given for identifying abundant, non‐toxic and non‐flammable greener solvents such as water, replacing detrimental organic solvents. Despite the safer aspects, reactions in aqueous solutions hardly meet the green chemical standards, particularly due to the challenging product isolation and purification techniques. Sharpless's demonstration of, until then almost unknown, “on water” effect was a major breakthrough in the realm of sustainable organic chemistry. Needless to say, integration of homo‐/heterogeneous water‐compatible catalysts under “on water” conditions without deteriorating its efficiency, has also awakened the industrial prospects of the protocol. Among the various transition metals, copper complexes or salts are considered as first line catalysts due to their irrevocable contributions to the synthetic world. Also, due to the water tuneable nature of these catalysts, many copper‐catalysed organic transformations that once required harsh conditions, could now be obtained using clean and safe protocols. This review comprehends the recent advancements in the copper‐catalysed “on water” reactions covering literatures since 2006.

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Medical student experiences of applying into emergency medicine during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A multi‐institutional survey of emergency medicine–bound medical students
Authors: Jauregui Joshua , Kessler Ross , Villalón Nicholas , House Joseph , Cole Michael , Kman Nicholas , Shandro Jamie
Published: February 2021

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic added new and great uncertainty to the typical approach to applying into emergency medicine (EM) for medical students. There are little data on students’ lived experience of applying during this time period. We performed a multi‐institutional survey of EM‐bound students’ experiences with preparing to apply into EM during the pandemic.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional survey design study of fourth‐year students preparing to apply into EM during the 2020–2021 academic year. All self‐identified EM‐bound students at four participating institutions were recruited by email in June 2020 to participate in a 13‐item, 5‐point Likert‐scale survey. Univariate descriptive statistics, response rate, and nonresponse bias were calculated.

Results

Sixty‐seven of 125 eligible students responded for an overall response rate of 53.6%. Nonresponse bias for specific survey items ranged from 0.01 to 0.12. Students rated the importance of securing an EM rotation at their home institution the highest of any item (mean ± SD = 4.81 ± 0.68). Students indicated higher satisfaction with advice from their department of EM (mean ± SD = 4.28 ± 0.75) than from their school of medicine (mean ± SD = 3.52 ± 0.89). Students indicated higher confidence in their home EM rotations’ ability to assure adequate personal protective equipment (PPE; mean ± SD = 3.91 ± 0.83) than an away rotation (mean ± SD = 2.82, 1.09). Students reported feeling between moderately and quite stressed about applying into EM this year (mean ± SD = 3.49 ± 1.01), but reported the financial stress the lowest of any item (mean ± SD = 1.46 ± 0.84). Students rated it highly important that away rotations prioritize students from institutions without an EM residency (mean ± SD = 4.51 ± 0.93).

Conclusion

Medical students applying into EM during the COVID‐19 pandemic felt confident in their EM advisors’ recommendations and their home institution's PPE provision. Students with EM residency programs at their schools recognized the importance of away rotations being prioritized for students from schools without EM residency programs. Strong EM advising is important to students.
Sectional model of a prairie buffer strip in a laboratory flume for water quality research
Authors: Craig Andrew J. , Soupir Michelle L. , Rehmann Chris R.
Published: February 2021

Vegetative buffers have shown promising results in reducing runoff volume, sediment, nutrients, and manure‐borne contaminants in runoff from agricultural fields. Although these vegetative buffer systems have been extensively tested in field and plot‐scale studies that utilize either natural or simulated rainfall, studies of such systems under highly controlled conditions in the laboratory have been limited. Here, we present the development of a new system for laboratory testing of a full‐scale, sectional, physical model of a new practice under the Continuous Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Clean Lakes, Estuaries, and Rivers (CLEAR) Initiative, CP‐43 Prairie Strips. This work includes the extraction of prairie strip sections from the field and their integration into an existing laboratory flume facility with specific auxiliary features to facilitate overland flow experimentation. As a proof of concept run, a potassium chloride (KCl) tracer study was conducted to verify system functionality and inform future work. The tracer pulse was injected under saturated conditions and the response was monitored through surface water (upstream and downstream of the prairie strip model) and subsurface water (infiltrated) sampling with continuous flow rate monitoring at the sampling locations. The tracer test provided highly resolved breakthrough curves (BTCs) with 93.5% of the injected tracer mass recovered, and provided useful information on flow partitioning, velocities, and dispersion characteristics along the surface and through the subsurface profile of the model. This model prairie strip system is expected to be useful in optimizing the performance of prairie strips under highly controlled flow and contaminant source conditions.
Wiedemann–Rautenstrauch syndrome in an Indian patient with biallelic pathogenic variants in POLR3A
Authors: Majethia Purvi , Girisha Katta Mohan
Published: February 2021

Wiedemann–Rautenstrauch syndrome (WRS; MIM# 264090) is a rare neonatal progeroid disorder resulting from biallelic pathogenic variants in the POLR3A. It is an autosomal recessive condition characterized by growth retardation, lipoatrophy, a distinctive face, sparse scalp hair, and dental anomalies. Till date, 19 families are reported with WRS due to variants in POLR3A. Here, we describe an 18 months old male child with biallelic c.2005C>T p.(Arg669Ter) and c.1771‐7C>G variant in heterozygous state identified by exome sequencing in POLR3A leading to WRS phenotype. The variant c.1771‐7C>G was earlier found to be associated with hereditary spastic ataxia. We emphasize on the phenotype in an Indian patient with WRS.
Modular Synthesis of Unsymmetrical 1,4‐Diamino‐2‐butynes by Cu–Catalyzed Sequential Decarboxylative A3‐Coupling/Petasis Reaction/A3‐Coupling
Authors: Zhu Shuangyuan , Feng Huangdi , Hu Shengyun , Guo Tingting , Li Ming , Tan Shaoying , Huang Liliang , Huang Junhai
Published: February 2021

1,4‐diamino‐2‐butynes are important structural motifs in biologically active molecules, however, their synthesis with high selectivity remains a challenge. Herein, we develop an effective and straightforward strategy for the modular synthesis of unsymmetrical 1,4‐diamino‐2‐butynes with a high chemoselectivity. This transformation involves a cascade process of copper‐catalyzed decarboxylative A3‐coupling, Petasis reaction, and A3‐coupling, providing a rapid route for synthesizing various target products with broadly functional tolerance and up to 76% yield.
Stable Thermotropic 3D and 2D Double Gyroid Nanostructures with Sub‐2‐nm Feature Size from Scalable Sugar–Polyolefin Conjugates
Authors: Nowak Samantha R. , Lachmayr Kätchen K. , Yager Kevin G. , Sita Lawrence R.
Published: February 2021

Ultra‐low molecular weight disaccharide–polyolefin conjugates with cellobiose, lactose and maltose head groups and atactic polypropene tails, such as 1, undergo a series of irreversible thermotropic order–order transitions with increasing temperature to provide nanostructured phases in the sequence: lamellar (L), hexagonal perforated lamellar (HPL), double gyroid (DG) and hexagonal cylindrical (C). The DG phase displays exceptional stability at ambient temperature and features two interpenetrating sugar domain networks having a sub‐2‐nm strut width and a lattice parameter, aDG, of 13.1 nm. The unique stability of this DG phase extends further within ultrathin films all the way down to the two‐dimensional limit of 15 nm in which film thickness, l, is now less than the surface‐oriented unit cell height, hDG. In addition to raising the fundamental question of what minimally constitutes a Schoen triply periodic minimal surface and DG lattice, these results serve to establish the class of sugar–polyolefin conjugates as a new material platform for nanoscience and nanotechnology.
Efficient Photoelectrochemical Conversion of Methane into Ethylene Glycol by WO3 Nanobar Arrays
Authors: Ma Jun , Mao Keke , Low Jingxiang , Wang Zihao , Xi Dawei , Zhang Wenqing , Ju Huanxin , Qi Zeming , Long Ran , Wu Xiaojun , Song Li , Xiong Yujie
Published: February 2021

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) conversion of methane (CH4) has been extensively explored for the production of value‐added chemicals, yet remains a great challenge in high selectivity toward C2+ products. Herein, we report the optimization of the reactivity of hydroxyl radicals (.OH) on WO3 via facet tuning to achieve efficient ethylene glycol production from PEC CH4 conversion. A combination of materials simulation and radicals trapping test provides insight into the reactivity of .OH on different facets of WO3, showing the highest reactivity of surface‐bound .OH on {010} facets. As such, the WO3 with the highest {010} facet ratio exhibits a superior PEC CH4 conversion efficiency, reaching an ethylene glycol production rate of 0.47 μmol cm−2 h−1. Based on in situ characterization, the methanol, which could be attacked by reactive .OH to form hydroxymethyl radicals, is confirmed to be the main intermediate for the production of ethylene glycol. Our finding is expected to provide new insight for the design of active and selective catalysts toward PEC CH4 conversion.
The use of recycled low‐density polyethylene films from protective prepreg for the development of nanocomposites with bentonite clay
Authors: Severino Pamela Rodrigues Passos , Braga Natália Ferreira , de Melo Morgado Guilherme Ferreira , Marini Juliano , Ferro Orestes , Passador Fábio Roberto , Montagna Larissa Stieven
Published: February 2021

Prepreg is a pre‐impregnated composite fiber where a thermoset polymer matrix material is present. Before being used, these materials are kept at low temperatures and have a low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) film for your protection. The increase in the use of structural composites based on prepregs causes an increase in the amount of protective LDPE film. This material is usually discarded or incinerated and can cause great damage to the environment. Thus, the present work aimed to study the feasibility of recycling up to 100% of protective LDPE (rLDPE) to develop blends‐based nanocomposites with rLDPE/virgin LDPE (60/40, 70/30, 80/20, 90/10 and 100/0) with the addition of 5 wt% of compatibilizer agent (maleic anhydride grafted LDPE, LDPE‐g‐MA), and 1 wt% of bentonite (BNT) using a co‐rotational twin‐screw extruder, followed by hot pressing in a hydropneumatic press and die‐cutting. Water absorption test, thermal aging resistance, morphological characterization by scanning electron microscopy, mechanical properties by Izod impact strength and tensile tests, and differential scanning calorimetry were performed. By the results, it was possible to verify the viability of 100% of the recycling of rLDPE. The results showed a good distribution of 1 wt% of BNT in the matrix, better mechanical properties when compared with virgin LDPE. Furthermore, the thermal properties, water absorption test, and thermal aging resistance showed no statistical differences between the samples. These results confirm the effectiveness and the environmental gain in the use of the recycled material.
Characterization study of flax/strontium titanate/polypropylene composite for low‐k dielectric applications
Authors: Prashanth P.V.S. Hari , Jayamani Elammaran , Soon Kok Heng , Rahman Md. Rezaur , Bakri Muhammad Khusairy Bin
Published: February 2021

This study demonstrates the characterization of flax fiber reinforced polypropylene‐strontium titanate composite and dielectric study for low‐k dielectric applications. The composite was studied through thermal, morphological, and compositional aspects. Thermogravimetry analysis, differential scanning calorimetry shows a higher thermal stability with low glass transition temperatures and lowered decomposition temperatures of 375°C. The morphological study on the surface of this composites had revealed closely packed layers of fiber, ceramic and polymer matrix, which deduces the increased dielectric constants between 3.92 and 4.25 after the addition of strontium titanate. The dielectric constant was found to be significantly higher with a 78% increase with strontium titanate inclusion at relaxation frequencies between 1 kHz and 2 MHz, respectively. Besides, the dielectric property data showed that dielectric permittivity of 4.2 (low k) with the inclusion of natural fibers and ceramic at higher frequencies and lowered corresponding dielectric losses. The infrared spectroscopy results also show a reduction in hydroxyl groups and confirms the presence of bonds that are subjected to high interfacial bonding.
In vivo‐ and in silico‐driven identification of novel synthetic quinoxalines as anticonvulsants and AMPA inhibitors
Authors: Abulkhair Hamada S. , Elmeligie Salwa , Ghiaty Adel , El‐Morsy Ahmed , Bayoumi Ashraf H. , Ahmed Hany E. A. , El‐Adl Khaled , Zayed Mohamed F. , Hassan Memy H. , Akl Eman N. , El‐Zoghbi Mona S.
Published: February 2021

The lack of effective therapies for epileptic patients and the potentially harmful consequences of untreated seizure incidents have made epileptic disorders in humans a major health concern. Therefore, new and more potent anticonvulsant drugs are continually sought after, to combat epilepsy. On the basis of the pharmacophoric structural specifications of effective α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) antagonists with an efficient anticonvulsant activity, the present work reports the design and synthesis of two novel sets of quinoxaline derivatives. The anticonvulsant activity of the synthesized compounds was evaluated in vivo according to the pentylenetetrazol‐induced seizure protocol, and the results were compared with those of perampanel as a reference drug. Among the synthesized compounds, 24, 28, 32, and 33 showed promising activities with ED50 values of 37.50, 23.02, 29.16, and 23.86 mg/kg, respectively. Docking studies of these compounds suggested that AMPA binding could be the mechanism of action of these derivatives. Overall, the pharmacophore‐based structural optimization, in vivo and in silico docking, and druglikeness studies indicated that the designed compounds could serve as promising candidates for the development of effective anticonvulsant agents with good pharmacokinetic profiles.
Adaptive Hüllen und Strukturen
Authors: Sobek Werner , Sawodny Oliver , Bischoff Manfred , Blandini Lucio , Böhm Michael , Haase Walter , Klett Yves , Mahall Mona , Weidner Stefanie , Burghardt Timon , Leistner Philip , Maierhofer Mathias , Park Sumee , Reina Guido , Roth Daniel , Tarín Cristina
Published: February 2021

Die „Große Beschleunigung“ bei Bevölkerungszahlen, klimaschädlichen Emissionen, Wasserverbrauch und vielem anderen stellt die gesamte Menschheit vor große Herausforderungen. Dies trifft besonders auf das Bauschaffen zu. Es gilt, zukünftig für mehr Menschen mit weniger Material emissionsfrei zu bauen. Hierfür muss unsere Art des Planens, Bauens und Nutzens von Bauwerken neu gedacht und neu konzipiert werden. Auf der bautechnischen Seite bedeutet dies die konsequente flächendeckende Umsetzung von Leichtbaustrategien. Zu diesen zählt neben dem klassischen Leichtbau und den Gradientenbauweisen auch das Bauen mit adaptiven Hüllen und Strukturen. Unter Adaptivität sind dabei unterschiedliche Veränderungen der Geometrie, der physikalischen Eigenschaften von einzelnen Bauteilen oder von ganzen Bauwerken zu verstehen. Durch Adaption können Spannungsfelder homogenisiert, Bauteilverformungen reduziert und bauphysikalische Verhalten von Bauteilen verändert werden. All dies verringert nicht nur den Materialbedarf, sondern liefert auch einen wesentlichen Beitrag zur Steigerung des Nutzerkomforts. Adaptivität im weiteren Sinne bezeichnet einen ganzheitlichen Ansatz, in dem die Anpassung sozialer, kultureller und räumlicher Erfahrungen sowie architektonischer und planerischer Handlungsweisen eng mit den technologischen Entwicklungen verknüpft wird. Die Zusammenführung dieser Perspektiven ist Anspruch des SFB, um ganzheitliche Lösungen für eine zukünftige gebaute Umwelt zu finden.
Effects of synthesis methods and different concentrations of Eu3+ ions on the emission properties of Sr2SiO4 phosphors
Authors: Fan Yu , Chen Chin‐Ta , Yang Cheng‐Fu , Cheng Yung‐Mao
Published: February 2021

Sr2‐xSiO4‐xEu (x = 0.01, 0.02, 0.035, and 0.05) phosphors were synthesized at 1000–1,300°C for 2 h in two different processes, the solid‐state reaction (SSR) method and a two‐step (TS) method, and these results revealed three important findings. The secondary Sr3SiO5 phase was observed in 1,300° C‐TS‐synthesized Sr2‐xSiO4‐xEu powder, but no raw materials or secondary phases were observed in the SSR‐prepared Sr2‐xSiO4‐xEu powders. The concentration quenching effect of Eu3+ ions was really observed in TS‐prepared Sr2‐xSiO4‐xEu phosphors, which was not observed in SSR‐prepared Sr2‐xSiO4‐xEu phosphors. High emission intensity of charge transition state (CT) band was observed in the photoluminescence excitation spectra, for that the 265 and 393 nm were used as the excitation wavelengths of Sr2‐xSiO4‐xEu phosphors. Sr2‐xSiO4‐xEu phosphors under different synthesis processes and excitation wavelengths would have different main emission peaks in the photoluminescence emission spectra. In this study, we also well discussed and explored the relationships of photoluminescence properties with the dipole transitions (electric or magnetic) of Eu3+ ions and the different coordination structures of Sr+2 ions.
Dissipation kinetics and dietary risk assessment of spiromesifen on major summer vegetables using good agricultural practices
Authors: Dubey Jatiender Kumar , Katna Sapna , Shandil Deepika , Devi Nisha , Singh Gaganpreet , Singh Gagandeep , Singh Shubhra , Kaushik Ekta , Sharma Ajay
Published: February 2021

Dissipation kinetics and dietary risk assessment of spiromesifen is worked out on four summer vegetables, viz. okra, chilli, capsicum and brinjal (eggplant or aubergine) during March–April 2015 at the experimental farm of the Department of Entomology, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry Nauni, Solan using good agricultutral practices. Two foliar applications of spiromesifen @ 144.0 g.a.i./ha each were given at 10 days interval with a knapsack sprayer with the first application at the fruit initiation stage. Sample were collected up to 15 days after pesticide application and processed using a modified QuEChERS method, which was validated by doing recovery studies having recovery range and RSD within established guidelines of SANCO. Estimation of spiromesifen residues was conducted on GC–MS. The initial deposits after spraying of spiromesifen on okra, capsicum, chilli and brinjal fruit after 2 h of treatment were 1.327, 0.727, 0.800 and 0.738 mg/kg, respectively. The residues persisted up to 7 days and further dissipated and declined below the limit of quantification of <0.025 mg/kg at 10 days after treatment in all of the crops under investigation. Dissipation of spiromesifen followed first‐order kinetics. The spiromesifen residues dissipated to half in 1.6, 1.8, 1.9 and 1.7 days with the suggested safe waiting period of 8.9, 5.2, 6.0 and 7.0 in the respective crops. The hazard quotient was <1 and theoretical maximum dietary intake was less than the maximum permissible intake, which was less than the maximum residue limit in all of the vegetable crops under investigation.
Fundamental to achieving fast separations with high efficiency: A review of chromatography with superficially porous particles
Authors: Luo Chuping , DeStefano Joseph J. , Langlois Timothy J. , Boyes Barry E. , Schuster Stephanie A. , Godinho Justin M.
Published: February 2021

Types of particles have been fundamental to LC separation technology for many years. Originally, LC columns were packed with large‐diameter (>100 μm) calcium carbonate, silica gel, or alumina particles that prohibited fast mobile‐phase speeds because of the slow diffusion of sample molecules inside deep pores. During the birth of HPLC in the 1960s, superficially porous particles (SPP, ≥30 μm) were developed as the first high‐speed stationary‐phase support structures commercialized, which permitted faster mobile‐phase flowrates due to the fast movement of sample molecules in/out of the thin shells. These initial SPPs were displaced by smaller totally porous particles (TPP) in the mid‐1970s. But SPP history repeated when UHPLC emerged in the 2000s. Stationary‐phase support structures made from sub‐3‐μm SPPs were introduced to chromatographers in 2006. The initial purpose of this modern SPP was to enable chromatographers to achieve fast separations with high efficiency using conventional HPLCs. Later, the introduction of sub‐2‐μm SPPs with UHPLC instruments pushed the separation speed and efficiency to a very fast zone. This review aims at providing readers a comprehensive and up‐to‐date view on the advantages of SPP materials over TPPs historically and theoretically from the material science angle.
Exploring virtue ethics in psychodynamic psychotherapy: latent changes in humility, affect regulation, symptoms and well‐being
Authors: Jankowski Peter J. , Captari Laura E. , Sandage Steven J.
Published: February 2021

A rising interest in virtues in psychotherapy has spurred empirical exploration of their influence on both mental health symptoms and well‐being. As such, we explored the virtue ethics premise that growth in the virtue of humility may ameliorate mental health symptoms and promote well‐being. We also examined whether change in experiential avoidance was a mechanism of these changes. Using a multiple simultaneous latent change score model, we analysed latent changes among humility, experiential avoidance and the outcomes of symptoms and social well‐being in a sample of clients (N = 778; M = 31.56 years of age; 59.4% female; 78.1% White) who received outpatient contemporary relational psychotherapy at a community mental health training clinic. Results indicated that change in humility corresponded to changes in symptoms and social well‐being through change in experiential avoidance. Clinical implications centre on clinicians attending closely to client experiences of oscillation between self‐abasement and self‐superiority and utilising small ways within the therapeutic encounter to foster humility.
Battery swallow‐induced tracheoesophageal fistula in a pediatric patient
Authors: Nguyen Lindsey N. , Ramanathan Sathish , Vahabzadeh‐Monshie Hamid R. , Borders Jack C. , de Armendi Alberto J.
Published: February 2021

Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is an abnormal connection between the trachea and esophagus. Rare acquired TEF arises from trauma, caustic fluids ingestion, and iatrogenic injuries (ventilation, esophageal atresia repair, radiation, or tracheal/esophageal stents). We discuss the diagnosis, anesthetic management, and surgical correction of battery swallow‐induced TEF, not previously reported in the pediatric anesthesia and otorhinolaryngology literatures.
Invasive ductal breast carcinoma preceded by CALR‐positive essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Ali Elrazi A. , Elmalik Hind , Omar Nabil E. , Yassin Mohamed A.
Published: February 2021

Persistent thrombocytosis in patients with cancer needs workup because it can be linked to essential thrombocytosis. The management should be individualized to start treatment for low‐risk essential thrombocytosis due to the combined risk of thrombosis.
Metastasis to the lateral lingual lymph node located behind the submandibular gland: A case of squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue
Authors: Suzuki Masami , Eguchi Kohtaro
Published: February 2021

Inconsistency in the definition of LLNs may be a hurdle in ensuring the accuracy of the evidence. Refinements in the classification of LLNs, based on the fascial anatomy and lymphatic vessels, are warranted.
Carbon‐based flexible self‐supporting cathode for lithium‐sulfur batteries: Progress and perspective
Authors: Xiao Qinghuiqiang , Yang Jinlin , Wang Xiaodong , Deng Yirui , Han Peng , Yuan Ning , Zhang Lei , Feng Ming , Wang Chang‐an , Liu Ruiping
Published: February 2021

The flexible self‐supporting electrode can maintain good mechanical and electrical properties while retaining high specific capacity, which meets the requirements of flexible batteries. Lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs), as a new generation of energy storage system, hold much higher theoretical energy density than traditional batteries, and they have attracted extensive attention from both the academic and industrial communities. Selection of a proper substrate material is important for the flexible self‐supporting electrode. Carbon materials, with the advantages of light weight, high conductivity, strong structural plasticity, and low cost, provide the electrode with a large loading space for the active material and a conductive network. This makes the carbon materials meet the mechanical and electrochemical requirements of flexible electrodes. In this paper, the commonly used fabrication methods and recent research progresses of the flexible self‐supporting cathode with a carbon material as the substrate are introduced. Various sulfur loading methods are summarized, which provides useful information for the structural design of the cathode. As the first review article of the carbon‐based flexible self‐supporting LSB cathodes, it provides valuable guidance for the researchers working in the field of LSB.
Corn and soybean response to sulfur fertilizer in West Tennessee
Authors: Cannon Kacey , McClure M. Angela , Yin Xinhua , Sams Carl
Published: February 2021

With improved crop yields and reduced atmospheric S deposition, Mid‐South U.S. soils may require S fertilization in deficient soils. The objectives of this study were to identify optimal at‐planting S rate for corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yield, and evaluate the impact of S rate on crop growth, leaf nutrient level, and seed S. Small plot replicated field studies were conducted in 2015 and 2016 at a S‐deficient site in Milan, TN. Ammonium sulfate [(NH4)2SO4] was broadcast applied at planting at 0, 10, 20, and 30 lb S acre–1. Soybean leaf S concentration at early bloom was similar to the zero S control, but concentrations of Fe, Mn, and Cu were reduced, and Zn was increased. These effects increased with S rate. Corn leaf tissue S concentration increased with S rate at sixth‐leaf and silking, while Fe, Mn, and Cu decreased as S rate increased, similar to the soybean experiment. Soybean seed S level increased with rate of S, while corn seed S increased with lowest S rate but did not respond to S rate. Seed N and seed weight were not affected by S rate for either crop. The small increase in soybean yield was not significant. Corn yield increased with applied S in both years. Overall, application of S fertilizer at ≥10 lb S acre–1 improved corn but not soybean yield in a low soil organic matter (SOM), S deficient medium‐textured soil.
Ensiling alfalfa and alfalfa–bermudagrass with ferulic acid esterase‐producing microbial inoculants
Authors: Hendricks Taylor J. , Hancock Dennis W. , Tucker Jennifer J. , Maia Fabio J. , Lourenco Jeferson M.
Published: February 2021

New silage inoculants contain a bacterial strain that produces ferulic acid esterase (FAE), which may facilitate lignin breakdown and increase the ensiled forage's digestibility. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a FAE‐producing microbial inoculant for improving fermentation characteristics, nutritive value, and digestibility of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) (ALF) or alfalfa–bermudagrass [Cyondon dactylon (L.) Pers.] (ABG) silage. This study was conducted at the University of Georgia Tifton Campus in Tifton, GA, and the J. Phil Campbell Research and Extension Center in Watkinsville, GA, on 0.25 acres of previously established ‘Bulldog 805′ alfalfa (Tifton) and a hybrid bermudagrass interseeded with Bulldog 505 alfalfa (Watkinsville). Forage was harvested twice during the growing season at 10% bloom of the alfalfa to simulate lignin content differences during the growing season. Harvested forage was treated with one of three treatments [FAE‐producing microbial inoculant (MI + FAE), a heterofermentative microbial forage inoculant (MI), or an untreated water control] before being packed into miniature silos to undergo a 60‐d fermentation. After a fermentation period, forage was analyzed for fermentation characteristics, nutritive value, and digestibility parameters. The inoculant treatment tended (P < .1) to affect total volatile fatty acid production in alfalfa; ABG was unaffected (P = .91). Inoculant treatment also did not affect in vitro dry matter digestibility of either forage (P = .22 and .33 for ALF and ABG, respectively). The MI + FAE treatment did not improve fermentation characteristics, nutritive value, or digestibility parameters compared with the MI inoculant.