bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender differences in the application of anthropometric measures for evaluation of obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Polesel Daniel Ninello , Nozoe Karen Tieme , Tufik Sergio Brasil , Bezerra Andreia Gomes , Fernandes Maria Teresa Bechere , Bittencourt Lia , Tufik Sergio , Andersen Monica Levy , Hachul Helena
Published: February 2020

This study aims to investigate anthropometric measures and their effectiveness as screening method for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in each gender. We also evaluated which measures were associated with OSA in the adult population of a large metropolitan city, Sao Paulo, Brazil. 552 women and 450 men were submitted to polysomnography (PSG), and the anthropometric measurements as body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio, neck and waist circumference were collected. The measurements were then compared with the OSA classification established by the PSG. In women, waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio were found to be the best predictor, while in men, the factors with great potential for identification varied according to severity of the disease, highlighting waist-to-height ratio, neck circumference and BMI had strongest association. The accuracy of the classification in relation to mild-to-severe OSA based on cut-off values of 92.5cm for waist circumference was greater than 72.9% in men, and 78.9% in women based on cut off values of 95cm. Regarding severe OSA, cut-off values of 116.1cm were greater than 91.3% accurate in the male population, and 95.1% in the female population with a cut-off value of 126.5cm. The study found waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio to be the best measure to assess sleep-disordered breathing in women. Waist-to-height ratio and neck circumferences were the best measures in men with mild OSA, but BMI was more closely associated with severe OSA. The present study identified the anthropometric variables with the highest risk for OSA and their respective cutoff value, according to gender.
The Effectiveness of Melatonin in Head Banging: A case report
Authors: Metin Ozge , Eynalli-Gok Ezgi , Kuygun-Karci Canan , Yolga-Tahiroglu Aysegul
Published: February 2020

Head banging is one of the three typical subtypes of rhythmic movement disorder. It typically involves anteroposterior movements of the head. Rhythmic movement disorder usually resolves in early childhood but less commonly persists into adolescence and adulthood. Although benzodiazepines commonly used, the universal effectiveness of any pharmacologic agent has not been approved. Herein, we present an 8-year-old girl patient suffered from head banging who responded to melatonin after in failure to imipramine treatment. Although nocomplete remission has been obtained, this is the first melatonin trial in a child patient with headbanging.
School burnout and sleep in Finnish secondary school students
Authors: Lehto Juhani E. , Kortesoja Laura , Partonen Timo
Published: February 2020

Introduction Studies have shown that poor sleep is related to burnout, but research to date has not yet explored sleep-related factors in relation to school burnout.

Methods A total of 555 students, aged 15 to 20 years, participated in this study. The participants reported their diurnal patterns, sleep quality, tiredness, and school burnout in printed questionnaires. Using logistic regression analysis, the study examined how sleep-related factors explained school burnout.

Results School burnout was related to daytime sleepiness, tiredness and poor sleep quality. Neither time in bed, social jet lag nor diurnal preferences could explain school burnout.

Conclusion The results contribute to the growing evidence showing the importance of sleep for well-being.
Thermo-parasomnia. Prediction of a possible sleep disorder or entity
Authors: Soca Rodolfo
Published: February 2020

Parasomnias are a group of sleep disorders that are characterized by the presence of undesirable behavioral, experiential, or autonomic nervous system events during sleep initiation, within sleep, or during arousals from any stage of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) or rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. During wakefulness and NREM sleep, the hypothalamus plays a central role in thermoregulation. REM sleep has a very distinct thermoregulatory response that is characterized by an inhibition of hypothalamic control over body temperature, with resulting poikilothermia. The role of the thermoregulatory features of REM sleep is currently unknown. Drawing conclusions from other parasomnias one can assume that a disorder could exist in which the thermoregulatory features of REM sleep are impaired. The existence of this condition may have eluded current research because most of the research on thermoregulation has been completed using animal models or healthy volunteers. If this disorder were to exist, it could be associated with metabolic disorders, or with neurodegenerative conditions, and perhaps it could be an early biomarker for alpha-synucleinopathies in idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder. New and evolving wearable technologies offer the promise of facilitating the monitoring of core body temperature and the testing of this hypothesized thermoregulatory autonomic disorder and its clinical correlates.
Índice social de desenvolvimento (ISD): cálculo para municípios da região metropolitana de Campinas/SP
Authors: Souza Celso Fabricio Correia de , Mastrodi Neto Josué , Souza Celso Correia de , Frainer Daniel Massen
Published: February 2020

A construção de índices em unidades subnacionais são de extrema importância para fornecer informações pormenorizadas para avaliação da situação e acompanhamento de políticas públicas considerando aspectos de sustentabilidade social. Os índices e indicadores são essenciais porquanto servem como guia para tomadas de decisão em vários níveis, permitindo mensurar o progresso e o atingimento dos objetivos do desenvolvimento social estabelecidos em ações governamentais. Esta pesquisa visa encontrar evidências sobre o desenvolvimento social dos municípios da Região Metropolitana de Campinas/SP (RMC) mediante a construção e avaliação do Índice Social de Desenvolvimento (ISD). Esse índice servirá de subsídio, em futura pesquisa, para construção do Índice de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (IDS) para a RMC. No resultado, detectou-se fragilidade social na Região Metropolitana de Campinas, em que somente dois municípios atinges um patamar 'aceitável' de sustentabilidade social para um conjunto de 62 indicadores. Espera-se que o presente estudo sirva de referência para formulação e aplicação de políticas públicas de desenvolvimento metropolitano mais eficazes, além de possibilitar a criação de um banco de informações (painel de índices e indicadores) para monitoramento e avaliação a partir de um Observatório ou de uma Sala de Situação Gerencial.
Las referencias a Paléfato en la Grande e General Estoria, de Alfonso X el Sabio, dentro de la tradición mitográfica
Authors: Alganza Roldán Minerva
Published: February 2020

Este artículo analiza las referencias al Περὶ ἀπίστων de Paléfato, procedentes de los Chronici canones de Eusebio y Jerónimo, en la General Estoria de Alfonso X. Tras la presentación de estas obras, en el comentario de cada episodio se abordan las particularidades de las distintas versiones encuadrándolas en la tradición mitográfica antigua y medieval, así como, en su caso, la adaptación a nuevos contextos históricos e ideológicos. El estudio concluye con algunas notas sobre la recepción de Paléfato por parte de Eusebio y en el scriptorium del rey Sabio.

This paper analyzes the references to Palaephatus’ Περὶ ἀπίστων, from the Chronici canones by Eusebius and Jerome, in the General Estoria of Alfonso X. After the presentation of these works, in the commentary of each episode the particularities of different versions, their relationships within ancient and medieval mythographical tradition, and, where appropiate, adaptation to new historical and ideological contexts are discussed. The study concludes with some notes on the reception of Palaephatus by Eusebius and in the scriptorium of the Wise King.
Resenhas
Authors: Zanotelli Claudio
Published: February 2020

Resenhas dos livros: Commun. La révolution au XXI siècle. Ensaio de Pierre Dardot e Christian Laval. Editora La Découverte, Paris, 2014, 593 p., A diversidade da Geografia brasileira. Escalas e dimensões da análise e da ação. Rio de Janeiro: Editora Consequência, 2016, 543 p.
Clinical Impact of two Different Diagnostic Strategies in the First- and Second-Line Treatment of Locally Advanced or Metastatic EGFR-Mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Gancitano Giovanni , Ravasio Roberto , Cattelino Lorenzo , Di Procolo Paolo , Cortinovis Diego
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND: A histopathological and mutational diagnosis has become a priority in the correct choice of the most appropriate cancer therapy for NSCLC. In the absence of a molecular analysis, the therapeutic choice will be directed towards platinum-based chemotherapy, thus preventing, in the presence of a specific mutation, the benefits deriving from the administration of a target therapies (TT).AIM: the present analysis was carried out with the aim of estimating the clinical impact, expressed in terms of progression free survival (PFS), associated with the use of the combined strategy (tissue biopsy and liquid biopsy) or the tissue strategy in the EGFR+ mNSCLC population.METHODS: A pre-existing cost-consequence model was adapted to estimate the annual number of mNSCLC patients with or without the EGFR mutation in order to decide the oncological treatment to be administered in first (1L) or second line (2L). In 1L, against the presence of the EGFR mutation, the administration of a Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI), such as osimertinib, gefitinib, erlotinib or afatinib, was considered; in the absence of the EGFR mutation, the administration ofstandard platinum-based chemotherapy was instead considered. With reference to 2L, in the presence of the EGFR T790M mutation, only osimertinib was considered. In the absence of the EGFR T790M mutation, the administration of the standard platinum-based chemotherapy was also considered. The PFS data associated with each of the drugs considered were extrapolated from the respective clinical studies. Key variables were tested in the sensitivity analysis.RESULTS: The adoption of the combined strategy (tissue biopsy and liquid biopsy), by virtue of a greater number of patients treated with TKIs, would make it possible to increase the average PFS in the range of 1.1-3,7 months in the 1L and by 1.4 months in the 2L.CONCLUSION: These results show how the adoption of a correct diagnostic strategy is critical in order to optimize the choice of the therapeutic path in the 1L and 2L of mNSCLC. The addition of the liquid biopsy to the classic diagnostic path (tissue biopsy) would in fact allow to obtain an increase in therapeutic efficacy (average PFS).
The perceived time value importance for enrolment in online masters courses: an extension of the Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Reza Mazandarani Mohammad , Royo-Vela Marcelo
Published: February 2020

Purpose. The main objective of this research is to obtain a better understanding of the impact of perceived time value on the intention of pursuing an online Master’s degree for its applicants. For this reason, perceived time value is added to the Technology Acceptance Model.
Design/methodology/approach. Data are collected from a purposive sample of 147 individuals, who were interested to continue their higher education. Both, online and personal surveys are used to collect data. Achieved data are analysed by structural equation modelling.
Findings. The results show that the perceived time value is significantly related to the ease of use and perceived utility, which in turn, show a significant effect on the attitude towards enrolment. Also the attitude towards enrolment is positively and significantly related to the Behavioural Intention towards studying an online Master (BIS). On the other hand, the perceived utility does not show a significant relationship with BIS.
Research limitations/implications. This paper only examines the perceived time value before attending an online Masters. This perception may change after starting such courses. Additionally, there might be more factors influencing their intention toward a particular higher education system that is not mentioned in this article.
Practical implications. This research can help the designers of these courses to understand the perception of the value of the time of the applicants before starting an online Master and thus, help them to plan their future marketing strategies more successfully.
Originality/value. This article demonstrates the effect of the motivating factors of the applicants for enrolment in an online Master by analyzing the importance of managing and saving time, resulting in more free time.
Selective egg cell polyspermy bypasses the triploid block
Authors: Mao Yanbo , Gabel Alexander , Nakel Thomas , Viehöver Prisca , Baum Thomas , Tekleyohans Dawit Girma , Vo Dieu , Grosse Ivo , Groß-Hardt Rita
Published: February 2020

Polyploidization, the increase in genome copies, is considered a major driving force for speciation. We have recently provided the first direct in planta evidence for polyspermy induced polyploidization. Capitalizing on a novel sco1-based polyspermy assay, we here show that polyspermy can selectively polyploidize the egg cell, while rendering the genome size of the ploidy-sensitive central cell unaffected. This unprecedented result indicates that polyspermy can bypass the triploid block, which is an established postzygotic polyploidization barrier. In fact, we here show that most polyspermy-derived seeds are insensitive to the triploid block suppressor admetos. The robustness of polyspermy-derived plants is evidenced by the first transcript profiling of triparental plants and our observation that these idiosyncratic organisms segregate tetraploid offspring within a single generation. Polyspermy-derived triparental plants are thus comparable to triploids recovered from interploidy crosses. Our results expand current polyploidization concepts and have important implications for plant breeding.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of multi-vesicular release is determined by heterogeneity of release sites within central synapses
Authors: Maschi Dario , Klyachko Vitaly A
Published: February 2020

A synaptic active zone (AZ) can release multiple vesicles in response to an action potential. This multi-vesicular release (MVR) occurs at most synapses, but its spatiotemporal properties are unknown. Nanoscale-resolution detection of individual release events in hippocampal synapses revealed unprecedented heterogeneity among vesicle release sites within a single AZ, with a gradient of release probability decreasing from AZ center to periphery. Parallel to this organization, MVR events preferentially overlap with uni-vesicular release (UVR) events at sites closer to an AZ center. Pairs of fusion events comprising MVR are also not perfectly synchronized, and the earlier event tends to occur closer to AZ center. The spatial features of release sites and MVR events are similarly tightened by buffering intracellular calcium. These observations revealed a marked heterogeneity of release site properties within individual AZs, which determines the spatiotemporal features of MVR events and is controlled, in part, by non-uniform calcium elevation across the AZ.
Ethics of technology and design ethics in socio-technical systems
Authors: Fiore Eleonora
Published: February 2020

This paper addresses many of the issues deriving from both design activity itself and the introduction of technology into everyday life. Relevant authors like Papanek (1984), Thackara (2005) and Manzini (2006) warned about the risks of design activity, as well as the consequences of bringing products to the world. Papanek defined design as the second most harmful profession one can practice, while Thackara claims that design is the cause of many troubling situations in our world (Mink, 2016). Manzini advocates the imminent need for a paradigm shift towards both a more sustainable design and way of living. In , Papanek pointed out that designers have a social and moral responsibility for the consequences of their innovations (Mink, 2016). For this reason, first we cannot ignore the advice, but also, we genuinely believe that designers should include ethical principles in their education. This paper seeks to address design ethics focusing on socio-technical systems and the new challenges introduced by both the Internet of things and artificial intelligence. The methodological framework combines the developed in human computer interaction ()   and computer ethics with a methodology based on need, requirements and performances developed in architecture. This approach is applied to the development of connected appliances, to conduct our reflections on an applied case study. Some guidelines are drawn at the end of this paper to guide designers in achieving a greater understanding of the ethical implications involved in the design process, establishing the responsibilities and limits of the designer.
Seasonal contributions of nutrients from small urban and agricultural watersheds in northern Poland
Authors: Matej-Lukowicz Karolina , Wojciechowska Ewa , Nawrot Nicole , Dzierzbicka-Głowacka Lidia Anita
Published: February 2020

Diffuse sources of pollution like agricultural or urban runoff are important factors in determining the quality of surface waters, although they are more difficult to monitor than point sources. The objective of our study was to verify assumptions that the inflow from agricultural nutrient sources is higher than from urbanized ones. It has been done by comparing the nutrients and organic matter concentrations and loads for three small streams in northern Poland (Pomerania Region). Two streams flowing through agricultural catchments and an urban stream flowing through the city of Gdansk were analysed. Concentrations of nutrients: N-NO${}_{3}^{-}$ N-NH${}_{4}^{+}$, P-PO${}_{4}^{3-}$, total phosphorus, total nitrogen and COD were measured 1–3 times per month in the period from July 2017 to December 2018 in agricultural watersheds and from October 2016 to March 2018 for an urban stream. Seasonal changes in concentrations were analysed with descriptive statistics tools. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to point out the most significant factors determining variations in nutrients and organic matter concentrations with respect to different seasons. The factors included a number of characteristics regarding the catchment and streams: total catchment area, stream length, watershed form ratio, stream slope, flow rate and land use with respect to paved areas, agricultural areas and green areas (parks, forests, meadows and pastures). Although concentrations of nitrogen compounds were higher in streams flowing through agricultural areas, our study showed that total concentrations of phosphorus were higher in the urban stream, especially in summer. In agricultural areas the summer concentrations of nutrients were not high, which was probably due to dense vegetation. The correlation between P-PO${}_{4}^{3-}$ concentration and size of agricultural area in the catchment was observed in winter when no vegetation field cover exists. Our study shows an urgent need to monitor the nutrient loads carried with urban streams especially if discharged into receivers prone to eutrophication.
Unexpectedly high genetic diversity in a rare and endangered seabird in the Hawaiian Archipelago
Authors: Antaky Carmen C. , Conklin Emily E. , Toonen Robert J. , Knapp Ingrid S.S. , Price Melissa R.
Published: February 2020

Seabirds in the order of Procellariiformes have one of the highest proportions of threatened species of any avian order. Species undergoing recovery may be predicted to have a genetic signature of a bottleneck, low genetic diversity, or higher rates of inbreeding. The Hawaiian Band-rumped Storm Petrel (‘Akē‘akē;Hydrobates castro), a long-lived philopatric seabird, suffered massive population declines resulting in its listing under the Endangered Species Act in 2016 as federally Endangered. We used high-throughput sequencing to assess patterns of genetic diversity and potential for inbreeding in remaining populations in the Hawaiian Islands. We compared a total of 24 individuals, including both historical and modern samples, collected from breeding colonies or downed individuals found on the islands of Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawai‘i. Genetic analyses revealed little differentiation between breeding colonies on Kaua‘i and the Big Island colonies. Although small sample sizes limit inferences regarding other island colonies, downed individuals from O‘ahu and Maui did not assign to known breeding colonies, suggesting the existence of an additional distinct breeding population. The maintenance of genetic diversity in future generations is an important consideration for conservation management. This study provides a baseline of population structure for the remaining nesting colonies that could inform potential translocations of the EndangeredH. castro.
Nutritional Composition, Functional Properties and Food Applications of Millet Grains
Authors: Abah C. R. , Ishiwu C. N. , Obiegbuna J. E. , Oladejo A. A.
Published: February 2020

Millet is an important nutritious ancient minor cereal food crop. This work reviews the composition, functional properties and food application of millet grains. The review shows that this cereal grains is a good source of carbohydrate and starch, with minute proteins, fat, vitamins and other nutrients. The functional properties of the cereal grains (Millet) was also evaluated and the findings gotten from various authors shows that the grains has a good functional properties in terms of their bulk density, oil absorption capacity, water absorption capacity, least gelatinization temperature and host of others. The pasting properties were also researched on and various authors attested to the potentiality of the grains in terms of the pasting properties. The food applications of the grains was not left out since the basic essence of this review is to see to the betterment of the livelihood of human, as such the various foods that can be produced from these grains were also looked into foods like millet ball “Fura”, tuwo, gruel, alcoholic beverages (like pito, burukutu) and non-alcoholic beverages (like “kunu zaki”) where all examined and conclusively the grains were rich sources of meals.
Compilation of Humor Scale for Applied Undergraduates in Fuzhou
Authors: Lin Shan , Hung Chien-Jen , (TF) Yen Tsai-Fa
Published: February 2020

The objective of this study aims at developing measure scale of sense of humor (SOH). The initial measure items were collected by reverent literature review of previous studies. Data was collected by questionnaire survey from an applied college and a total of 350 valid samples were received with a responded rate of 83%. The results of structure equation modeling (SEM) showed that the adequately reliability and validity of the scale could be met. Furthermore, five factors named humor creation, humor applied, humor attitude, humor collection, and humor copy were extracted from twenty measure items. Finally some suggestions were drawn to the college.
Morphological and Structural Characterization of Rhizospheric Endomycorrhiza Communities Associated with Rice Grown in the Sahelian Zone (Chad)
Authors: Nadjilom Yoradi , Takoukam Toukam Steve , Tobolbaï Richard , Ngakou Albert
Published: February 2020

In Chad, rice is grown for its starchy seeds or caryopses, but is also for consumption in the form of seeds pasta with soup. However, little or no work has been conducted in Chad to assess the composition of endomycorrhiza community inhabiting the plant rice rhizospheres. Hence, the main objective of this study was to investigate on native endomycorrhiza that are efficient to establish a symbiotic relationship with two rice varieties in the Sahelian zone in Chad. Two rice varieties were grown in a pot experiment on composite soils samples from Laï, Kelo, Kolobo and N’Djamena for 3 months. Parameters such as mycorrhizal frequency, intensity, specific density and richness were determined following to the standard methods. After spore extraction, species description and characterization were obtained through the informations provided by the International Vesicular Mycorrhizal fungi collection (INVAM): http://invam.caf.wv.edu/fungi/taxonomy/species ID.htm. The highest specific endomycorrhizal density (97.3%) and richness (11%) were registered respectively at kelo, Laï and Kolobo. The endomycorrhizal frequency and intensity were respectively between 4.33-7.33% and 0.8-2.9% for the two rice varieties. Eleven endomycorrhiza species belonging to six genera were identified from different soil samples. These include Septoglomus (S. constrictum, S. deserticola); Rhizophagus (R. aggregatus, R. fasciculatus, R. intraradices); Acaulospora (A. lacunosa, A. rugosa, A. trappei); Claroideoglomus lamellosum; Glomus pansihalos and Diversispora epigae. S. constrictum was the most dominant and frequent species found in all the soil sampling sites, while R. aggregatus was the less frequently encountered specimen. The lowest macorrhizal richness and frequency obtained is a proof that cultivation of rice dependent on endomycorrhiza in this zone. The multi-native endomycorhiza spores identified are the active principle to be included in the bioinoculants production in order to increase and improve the production of rice in the south of Chad.
Nigerian Genres of Music could be a Therapeutic Stratagem against Alcohol-induced Hippocampal Damage in Experimental Models: Evidences from Neurobehavioural, Oxidative Markers, Histochemical and Pyramidal Cell Evaluations
Authors: Ajeleti A. O. , G. Akunna G. , Olabiyi O. , Balogun O. , H. Ayoade O. , O. Adewale V.
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Memory is a cognitive function essential to everyday life. Alcohol causes damage to the hippocampus. Music (especially Mozart music) has been reported to enhance memory function.

Aim: This study investigated the possible role of different genres of Nigerian music (Afro-Hiphop and Fuji) on alcohol-induced hippocampal toxicity.

Methodology: Thirty-six (36) Adult Wistar rats (105 g-160 g) were randomly distributed into 6 groups. Group A were administered 5 ml/kg b.wt. of distilled water everyday for 28 days. Group B rats were administered 5 ml/kg b.wt. of alcohol (20%) for 2 weeks. However for the first 2 weeks, the rats in Groups C and D were administered 5 ml/kg b.wt. of alcohol (20%) and the rats in Groups E and F were exposed to Nigerian Fuji and hip hop music at 75dB-83dB respectively for 4 hours daily. For the last 2 weeks, the rats in C and D were exposed to Nigerian hip hop and fuji music respectively 75dB-83dB, for 4 hours daily and the rats in Group E and F were administered 5 ml/kg b.wt of alcohol.

Results: Higher memory capacity, oxidative status and normal histo-architecture of the hippocampus in group A rats were recorded. However, Group B rats showed a non-significant (p≥0.05) increase in body weight, higher and lower memory capacity as shown by Morris water maze test and Y-Maze respectively, significant decrease (p≤0.05) in oxidative stress markers (SOD, CAT, GSH) and a significant (p≤0.05) increase in MDA and Acetylcholinesterase, structural distortion and neuronal degeneration as evident by a significant (p≤0.05) decrease in number of pyramidal cells when compared to the rats in groups A, C-F. The rats in group C-F had changes in their memory capacity at the 14th and 28th day.

Conclusion: Music (AfroHip-Hop and Fuji) improved the histo-architecture of alcohol-distorted hippocampus in rats. However they do not have a definite effect on spatial memory.
Determinants of Disparity between Antenatal Bookings and Institutional Deliveries in Port Harcourt, Southern Nigeria
Authors: Kasso Terhemen , Chibianotu Ojimah , Ogu Rosemary
Published: February 2020

Aim: To determine the reasons why women deliver outside institutions where they register for antenatal care.

Study Design: Qualitative study.

Place and Duration of Study: Antenatal clinic of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital in February 2018.

Methodology: A qualitative study using in-depth interviews (IDIs) was conducted in Port Harcourt, Nigeria to collect information on various reasons why women do not deliver where they received antenatal care (ANC) or with skilled birth attendants (SBAs). This was done using structured interview guides. Specifically, we asked 30 pregnant women to elucidate the circumstances that lead women to deliver in places other than where they had received antenatal care, and recommendations to enhance the number of women delivering with skilled birth attendants. All in-depth interviews were audio-taped, transcribed and content-analyzed.

Results: Thirty IDIs were carried out. The women were all pregnant; aged 20 to 43 years old with mean age of 32.9 ± 5.5 years. The broad themes that emerged from their responses: Cost/financial reasons relating to inability to afford the cost of care in the hospitals, personal reasons such as fear of Caesarean section, and hospital-related reasons such as health workers’ strike action.

Conclusion:  Evidence from our study indicates that pregnant women’s non-use of skilled birth attendants during childbirth even when they received antenatal care in the hospital is mainly due to financial, personal and hospital-related reasons. These factors are modifiable and should be targeted to increase delivery with skilled attendants, a key strategy for the reduction of maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity.
Characterization of Faecal Sludge from Pit Latrines to Guide Management Solutions in Cape Coast, Ghana
Authors: Awere Eric , Appiah Obeng Peter , Asirifua Obeng Panin , Bonoli Alessandra
Published: February 2020

This study characterised faecal sludge from public ventilated improved pit (VIP) latrines in Cape Coast to assess their potential impact on the environment and to guide the selection of appropriate management solutions. The paper also estimates the amount of beneficial resources wasted due to the lack of a faecal sludge (FS) treatment facility. The study employed a quantitative design involving laboratory analysis of FS sampled from 13 purposively sampled VIP latrines in Cape Coast, Ghana. Sampling activities were carried out in January and February (dry season) and September and October (wet season) of 2015. Samples of unhardened pit latrine sludge were collected from all 13 pit latrines for quality assessment. Physicochemical parameters (moisture content, COD, BOD5, total solids and total volatile solids) of homogenous samples from the surface, middle and bottom of pit contents were analysed following standard procedures. Apart from total solids, all other parameters decreased with the depth of sampling and the differences were statistically significant (p<.01). Seasonal variation in faecal sludge characteristics was not significant except for BOD5. A high COD: BOD5 (3.8-4.5:1) shows faecal sludge that is characterised by slowly degradable organic matter. Even though the FS at the bottom of the pits was found to be the most stabilized, its characteristic parameters indicate that discharging it into the environment without any further treatment would pose a significant threat to public health.  The characteristics suggest that co-composting would be the most appropriate option for treating the FS and also underscore the fact that the VIP latrine technology is not suitable for use as a public toilet.
Role of Temperature in Na2SO4–K2SO4 Deposit Induced Type II Hot Corrosion of NiAl Coating on a Commercial Ni‐Based Superalloy
Authors: Wang Yaping , Pillai Rishi , Yazhenskikh Elena , Frommherz Martin , Müller Michael , Naumenko Dmitry
Published: February 2020

The life span of gas turbine coatings may be restricted by type II hot corrosion when exposed at elevated temperatures in aggressive environments during service. Herein, the temperature dependence of corrosion morphologies and kinetics of NiAl coating on a second‐generation single crystalline Ni‐based superalloy is studied to provide an insight into the possible corrosion mechanisms. A series of tests are performed at 600–800 °C in air‐300 ppm SO2 atmosphere with Na2SO4–20% K2SO4 salt mixture as deposit. Severe attack is observed at both 700 and 750 °C after 24 h exposure, whereas at 600 and 800 °C, only a minor attack is found. The results indicate that the corrosion rate is strongly governed by Na2SO4–NiSO4 liquid formation, and temperature affects the attack rate of the outer coating (mainly β‐NiAl phase) primarily by changing the required minimum SO3 partial pressure to stabilize this liquid. The influence of temperature and on phase equilibrium of the salt and oxide mixture is calculated with an in‐house developed thermodynamic database. The predicted minimum for liquid formation calculated with the database is consistent with the experimental results.
Proximity Effect in Crystalline Framework Materials: Stacking‐Induced Functionality in MOFs and COFs
Authors: Kuc Agnieszka , Springer Maximilian A. , Batra Kamal , Juarez‐Mosqueda Rosalba , Wöll Christof , Heine Thomas
Published: February 2020

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) consist of molecular building blocks being stitched together by strong bonds. They are well known for their porosity, large surface area, and related properties. The electronic properties of most MOFs and COFs are the superposition of those of their constituting building blocks. If crystalline, however, solid‐state phenomena can be observed, such as electrical conductivity, substantial dispersion of electronic bands, broadened absorption bands, formation of excimer states, mobile charge carriers, and indirect band gaps. These effects emerge often by the proximity effect caused by van der Waals interactions between stacked aromatic building blocks. Herein, it is shown how functionality is imposed by this proximity effect, that is, by stacking aromatic molecules in such a way that extraordinary properties emerge in MOFs and COFs. After discussing the proximity effect in graphene‐related materials, its importance for layered COFs and MOFs is shown. For MOFs with well‐defined structure, the stacks of aromatic building blocks can be controlled via varying MOF topology, lattice constant, and by attaching steric control units. Finally, an overview of theoretical methods to predict and analyze these effects is given, before the layer‐by‐layer growth technique for well‐ordered surface‐mounted MOFs is summarized.
Polymorphic Spin, Charge, and Lattice Waves in Vanadium Ditelluride
Authors: Won Dongyeun , Kiem Do Hoon , Cho Hwanbeom , Kim Dohyun , Kim Younghak , Jeong Min Yong , Seo Changwon , Kim Jeongyong , Park Je‐Geun , Han Myung Joon , Yang Heejun , Cho Suyeon
Published: February 2020

Lattice distortion, spin interaction, and dimensional crossover in transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have led to intriguing quantum phases such as charge density waves (CDWs) and 2D magnetism. However, the combined effect of many factors in TMDs, such as spin–orbit, electron–phonon, and electron–electron interactions, stabilizes a single quantum phase at a given temperature and pressure, which restricts original device operations with various quantum phases. Here, nontrivial polymorphic quantum states, CDW phases, are reported in vanadium ditelluride (VTe2) at room temperature, which is unique among various CDW systems; the doping concentration determines the formation of either of the two CDW phases in VTe2 at ambient conditions. The two CDW polymorphs show different antiferromagnetic spin orderings in which the vanadium atoms create two different stripe‐patterned spin waves. First‐principles calculations demonstrate that the magnetic ordering is critically coupled with the corresponding CDW in VTe2, which suggests a rich phase diagram with polymorphic spin, charge, and lattice waves all coexisting in a solid for new conceptual quantum state‐switching device applications.
Resonant Tunneling Spectroscopy to Probe the Giant Stark Effect in Atomically Thin Materials
Authors: Zheng Shoujun , Jo Sanghyun , Kang Kyungrok , Sun Linfeng , Zhao Mali , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Moon Pilkyung , Myoung Nojoon , Yang Heejun
Published: February 2020

Each atomic layer in van der Waals heterostructures possesses a distinct electronic band structure that can be manipulated for unique device operations. In the precise device architecture, the subtle but critical band splits by the giant Stark effect between atomic layers, varied by the momentum of electrons and external electric fields in device operation, has not yet been demonstrated or applied to design original devices with the full potential of atomically thin materials. Here, resonant tunneling spectroscopy based on the negligible quantum capacitance of 2D semiconductors in resonant tunneling transistors is reported. The bandgaps and sub‐band structures of various channel materials could be demonstrated by the new conceptual spectroscopy at the device scale without debatable quasiparticle effects. Moreover, the band splits by the giant Stark effect in the channel materials could be probed, overcoming the limitations of conventional optical, photoemission, and tunneling spectroscopy. The resonant tunneling spectroscopy reveals essential and practical information for novel device applications.
Tunable Structural Color Patterns Based on the Visible‐Light‐Responsive Dynamic Diselenide Metathesis
Authors: Liu Cheng , Fan Zhiyuan , Tan Yizheng , Fan Fuqiang , Xu Huaping
Published: February 2020

Structural color materials with reversible stimuli‐responsiveness to external environment have been widely used in sensors, encryption, display, and other fields. Compared with other stimuli, visible light is highly controllable both temporally and spatially with less damage to materials, which is more suitable for structural color patterning. Herein, a new diselenide‐containing shape memory material is prepared and used for creating patterns via visible light stimulus. In this system, the structural color originates from birefringence of stretched materials, whose shapes can be fixed while maintaining the mechanical stress. The fixed stress can be released by diselenide metathesis under visible light irradiation. By regulating the wavelength or irradiation time with a commercial projector, the pattern with tunable structural colors is realized and the structural color pattern can be erased and rewritten arbitrarily. During the patterning process, the optical signal is first stored as mechanical signal and then transformed back to optical signal. It is a new method for preparing visible‐light‐responsive structural color material and has great potential in display devices, anticounterfeiting labels, and data storage.
Highly Elastic and >200% Reversibly Stretchable Down‐Conversion White Light‐Emitting Diodes Based on Quantum Dot Gel Emitters
Authors: Le Thanh‐Hai , Choi Yunseok , Kim Semin , Lee Unhan , Heo Eunseo , Lee Haney , Chae Subin , Im Won Bin , Yoon Hyeonseok
Published: February 2020

Combining the characteristics of different materials offers exciting new opportunities for advanced applications in various fields. Herein, white light‐emitting diodes (WLEDs) with >200% reversible stretchability are fabricated using six‐color quantum dots (QDs) gel emitters. Stable aqueous‐phase alloy core/shell QDs with high quantum yield are obtained via ligand exchange using a ternary solvent system. Transparent and highly stretchable gels with large pores are created by binary‐solvent‐based gelation at low temperatures. Importantly, the QDs and the gel originate from the same two solvents, which make the QDs highly compatible with the gelation process. Consequently, QDs of six different colors are incorporated into the gel without any property degradation. The excellent optical properties of the QDs in the liquid phase (e.g., 17% higher photoluminescence (PL) intensity) are retained in the gel phase. The QD gel (QDG) exhibits elastic deformation up to 200%, with uniform PL over the entire gel. A down‐conversion WLED built using the QDG emitter produces cool white light with a color temperature of 6100 K, a color rendering index of 94, and a luminous efficacy of 72 lm W−1. In addition, the performance of the QDG‐based WLED remains unchanged even after more than 1000 bending/stretching cycles.
Electrochemical Sulfonylation of Alkynes with Sulfonyl Hydrazides: A Metal‐ and Oxidant‐Free Protocol for the Synthesis of Alkynyl Sulfones
Authors: Mo Zu‐Yu , Zhang Yu‐Zhen , Huang Guo‐Bao , Wang Xin‐Yu , Pan Ying‐Ming , Tang Hai‐Tao
Published: February 2020

Herein, an electrochemical oxidative cross‐coupling reaction between terminal alkynes and sulfonylhydrazides has been developed. Tetrabutylammonium iodide is used as the electrolyte and redox medium. The significant advantages of this method are high atom efficiency, functional group tolerance, and transition metal‐ and oxidant‐free conditions. Most of the compounds exhibit good inhibitory activity on tumor cell lines, and one of the compounds can inhibit cell migration and induce apoptosis in HeLa cells.

magnified image
CRISPR/Cas Systems in Genome Editing: Methodologies and Tools for sgRNA Design, Off‐Target Evaluation, and Strategies to Mitigate Off‐Target Effects
Authors: Manghwar Hakim , Li Bo , Ding Xiao , Hussain Amjad , Lindsey Keith , Zhang Xianlong , Jin Shuangxia
Published: February 2020

Life sciences have been revolutionized by genome editing (GE) tools, including zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator‐Like effector nucleases, and CRISPR (clustered regulatory interspaced short palindromic repeats)/Cas (CRISPR‐associated) systems, which make the targeted modification of genomic DNA of all organisms possible. CRISPR/Cas systems are being widely used because of their accuracy, efficiency, and cost‐effectiveness. Various classes of CRISPR/Cas systems have been developed, but their extensive use may be hindered by off‐target effects. Efforts are being made to reduce the off‐target effects of CRISPR/Cas9 by generating various CRISPR/Cas systems with high fidelity and accuracy. Several approaches have been applied to detect and evaluate the off‐target effects. Here, the current GE tools, the off‐target effects generated by GE technology, types of off‐target effects, mechanisms of off‐target effects, major concerns, and outcomes of off‐target effects in plants and animals are summarized. The methods to detect off‐target effects, tools for single‐guide RNA (sgRNA) design, evaluation and prediction of off‐target effects, and strategies to increase the on‐target efficiency and mitigate the off‐target impact on intended genome‐editing outcomes are summarized.
Liquid‐State Optoelectronics Using Liquid Metal
Authors: Kozaki Takashi , Saito Satoshi , Otsuki Yota , Matsuda Ryosuke , Isoda Yutaka , Endo Takuma , Nakamura Fumika , Araki Takuto , Furukawa Taichi , Maruo Shoji , Watanabe Masayoshi , Ueno Kazuhide , Ota Hiroki
Published: February 2020

Liquid‐state electronics utilizing functional liquids confined in soft templates as the sensing and actuating component present the ideal platform for enabling conformal coverage of electronic systems on curved and soft surfaces. However, to date, optoelectronic devices based on functional liquid materials as represented by photodetectors and optical memories still have not been proposed; this advancement is crucial to scaling up current liquid‐state devices to a system level. Optoelectronic devices based on liquid metal and photo‐switchable ionic liquid with liquid–liquid heterojunction technology are proposed. The sensing and memory schemes presented are generic for different liquid‐state devices and that enables different functionality to be added to the liquid‐state electronics. As a proof of concept, demonstrations are made of a light sensor composed of the ionic liquid and an optical memory using a composite of the ionic liquid and polypropylene glycol. These devices are important advancements toward the realization of liquid‐state electronic systems.
Multifunctional Electronic Skin Based on Perovskite Intermediate Gels
Authors: Ye Tengling , Wang Qiao , Tian Changhao , Singh Ranbir , Zhang Yaping , Liu Zhiwei , Fang Xikui , He Dongqing
Published: February 2020

Electronic skin (e‐skin) has attracted extensive attention owing to its potential application in biomedical sensors, intelligent robots, and bionic prostheses. To imitate better or even surmount the perceptive capabilities of human skin, multifunctional e‐skin is an important trend in the field. A novel stable perovskite intermediate gel (PIGel) is obtained during the MA2SnI6 perovskite crystallization process. This Sn‐based PIGel exhibits good conductivity and outstanding wettability on different polymer substrates. Based on these properties, it is successfully applied to the field of e‐skin. Flexible and stretchable multifunctional e‐skin sensors are developed based on it. Stretching, finger bending, voice recognition, pulse monitoring, temperature, and electricity response are achieved in one e‐skin device. In addition, the MA2SnI6 perovskite single crystal is prepared by solvent engineering. The formation mechanism of the PIGel and MA2SnI6 single crystal is studied in detail. This work broadens the selection range of sensing materials for e‐skin and paves the way to achieve multifunctional sensors with the facile fabrication process.
Structure Design and Composition Engineering of Carbon‐Based Nanomaterials for Lithium Energy Storage
Authors: Geng Hongya , Peng Yan , Qu Liangti , Zhang Haijiao , Wu Minghong
Published: February 2020

Carbon‐based nanomaterials have significantly pushed the boundary of electrochemical performance of lithium‐based batteries (LBs) thanks to their excellent conductivity, high specific surface area, controllable morphology, and intrinsic stability. Complementary to these inherent properties, various synthetic techniques have been adopted to prepare carbon‐based nanomaterials with diverse structures and different dimensionalities including 1D nanotubes and nanorods, 2D nanosheets and films, and 3D hierarchical architectures, which have been extensively applied as high‐performance electrode materials for energy storage and conversion. The present review aims to outline the structural design and composition engineering of carbon‐based nanomaterials as high‐performance electrodes of LBs including lithium‐ion batteries, lithium–sulfur batteries, and lithium–oxygen batteries. This review mainly focuses on the boosting of electrochemical performance of LBs by rational dimensional design and porous tailoring of advanced carbon‐based nanomaterials. Particular attention is also paid to integrating active materials into the carbon‐based nanomaterials, and the structure–performance relationship is also systematically discussed. The developmental trends and critical challenges in related fields are summarized, which may inspire more ideas for the design of advanced carbon‐based nanostructures with superior properties.