bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Feature Selection Method Using Wrapper-based Random Search Strategy and Mutual Information for Remote Sensing Image Classification
Authors: Nisia T. , Rajesh S.
Published: July 2022

Remote sensing image classification is one of the useful image processing tasks and finds application in many real-life scenarios. Image feature is important and unavoidable in classification. It is impossible to get a clear classification result without proper features. So after feature extraction, selecting an efficient and relevant feature is inevitable. Thus, our system proposes a new way of selecting features by a wrapper-based method that works using a randomized search strategy. The process is done in an orderly manner. In each step, the features that contribute less to classification are rejected to bring out the most relevant features. Three steps are followed: (1) Randomized selection (2) Warm start and (3) Cool down. The Randomized selection selects relevant features based on the random search method from the full feature set. Among the selected features, the important features are selected, based on the Mutual Information using the Warm start. Some important features, missed out in Randomized selection, are picked up in Cool down. The system finds out 25% of the most relevant features with greater classification accuracy when compared with classification accuracy obtained using 100% features. The proposed system has been checked for its efficiency with the help of remote sensing-based datasets from the UCI repository and it is found to be more efficient than the other existing methods. The results produced with the selected features are of high accuracy and low computational cost.
A Field Study on Fertility Traits of Holstein Heifer and Cows Artificially Inseminated with Sexed Belgian Blue Sperm and Growth Characteristics of Crossbreed Belgian Blue × Holstein (F1) Male Calves
Authors: Akbaş Aykut , Sari Mehmet , Usta Zafer , Saatci Mustafa
Published: July 2022

The study was conducted to investigate some reproductive traits of Holstein cattle inseminated with imported sexed male Belgian Blue semen and the growth characteristics of calves in Aydın province of Turkey. Totally 82 Holstein cattle including 29 heifers and 53 cows were inseminated. After the inseminations, some reproductive (the number of insemination per conception, conception rate, the dystocia rate, the rate of stillbirth) values were determined in the enterprises. The birth weights of the male calves were determined and in the following periods, the chest girth and body length values were determined for 6 months of age. In the study, it was observed that the average age of the first insemination was 14.05 months for heifers and 38.11 months for cows (P < 0:05). While more than half of the cows (52.08%) became pregnant in the first insemination, a great majority of the pregnancies (69.03%) of heifers occurred in the second inseminations (P < 0:05). The number of inseminations per conception were 2.13 and 1.79 for heifers and cows, respectively. While the conception rate was determined as 47.76% and 55.62% for heifers and cows respectively, dystocia rate were 43.10% and 25.75%, respectively. The average birth weight of the male calves were found as 42.75 kg and the 90th and 180th day live weights were 106.22 kg and 154.16 kg, respectively. While, the height at withers, body length and chest girth values were detected as 80.60 cm, 78.28 cm, 81.04 cm at birth, the same measurements were 94.45 cm, 94.22 cm and 109.79 cm; 108.46 cm, 110.88 cm and 129.45 cm for the 90th and 180th day, respectively. The corresponding study has clearly shown that the application in the project can create a dramatical meaning in dairy farms. This application can be used in dairy farms in a certain period to whole herd or a part of it.
Screening of ferroptosis-related genes in sepsis-induced liver failure and analysis of immune correlation
Authors: Chen Qingli , Liu Luxiang , Ni Shuangling
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Sepsis-induced liver failure is a kind of liver injury with a high mortality, and ferroptosis plays a key role in this disease. Our research aims to screen ferroptosis-related genes in sepsis-induced liver failure as targeted therapy for patients with liver failure.

Methods

Using the limma software, we analyzed the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the GSE60088 dataset downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Clusterprofiler was applied for enrichment analysis of DEGs enrichment function. Then, the ferroptosis-related genes of the mice in the FerrDb database were crossed with DEGs. Sepsis mice model were prepared by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP). ALT and AST in the serum of mice were measured using detection kit. The pathological changes of the liver tissues in mice were observed by hematoxylin-eosin (H & E) staining. We detected the apoptosis of mice liver tissues using TUNEL. The expression of Hmox1, Epas1, Sirt1, Slc3a2, Jun, Plin2 and Zfp36 were detected by qRT-PCR.

Results

DEGs analysis showed 136 up-regulated and 45 down-regulated DEGs. Meanwhile, we found that the up-regulated DEGs were enriched in pathways including the cytokine biosynthesis process while the down-regulated DEGs were enriched in pathways such as organic hydroxy compound metabolic process. In this study, seven genes (Hmox1, Epas1, Sirt1, Slc3a2, Jun, Plin2 and Zfp36) were obtained through the intersection of FerrDb database and DEGs. However, immune infiltration analysis revealed that ferroptosis-related genes may promote the development of liver failure through B cells and natural killer (NK) cells. Finally, it was confirmed by the construction of septic liver failure mice model that ferroptosis-related genes of Hmox1, Slc3a2, Jun and Zfp36 were significantly correlated with liver failure and were highly expressed.

Conclusion

The identification of ferroptosis-related genes Hmox1, Slc3a2, Jun and Zfp36 in the present study contribute to our understanding of the molecular mechanism of sepsis-induced liver failure, and provide candidate targets for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
Awareness Level of Geographical Indication (GI) on Madurai Malli
Authors: Rajeshwaran M. , Rani A. Janaki , Sabarinathan C.
Published: July 2022

The study aims to assess the awareness level of Geographical indication on Madurai Malli in Madurai district. It was found that Majority of the respondents were having low level of awareness on GI Madurai malli. It was inferred from farmers in the study area doesn’t know the real benefits of GI and its importance in the socio-economic development of the community. In the domestic market the farmers really find any changes in the price hike due to GI tag might be the reason for low level of awareness on Geographical indication on Madurai Malli among the beneficiary respondents.
Influence of Phosphorous and Foliar Spray of Zinc on Growth and Yield of Lentil (Lens culinaris M.)
Authors: Chandan Nitta , Debbarma Victor , Mounika Sammeta , Mohan Neeraganti
Published: July 2022

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi season of 2021-22, at crop research farm of Department of Agronomy at Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj in North Eastern plains of Eastern Uttar Pradesh with the objective to study the Influence of Phosphorus and Foliar Spray of Zinc on Growth and yield of lentil (Lens culinaris M.) Var. KSL-0903 was conducted on Randomized block design comprising of 9 treatments designated as (T1-T9) with different combination of Phosphorus and Foliar Spray of Zinc on which are replicated thrice. The experimental results revealed that [Phosphorus 50kg/ha+ Zinc 0.75%] gave the tallest plants (54.53cm), Number of nodules/plant (8.66), Plant dry weight (12.73g), number of pods/plant (163.3), number of seeds/pod (2.00), test weight (25.13g), Seed yield (1.908t/ha), Stover yield (3.534 t/ha). The treatment 9 [Phosphorus 50kg/ha+ Zinc 0.75%] recorded highest net return (66348.30 INR /ha), highest gross return (97308.30 INR/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (2.14).
Evaluation of Plasma Levels of Interleukin 6 and Iron Status of Volleyball Players in a Nigerian University
Authors: Obeagu Emmanuel Ifeanyi , Anierobi Chinecherem Cynthia , Eze Gloria Chizoba , Chukwueze Chidimma Maureen , Makonyonga Rutendo Denise , Amadi Nkiruka Millicent , Hassan Rifkatu
Published: July 2022

To determine the levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and iron status of volleyball players in Madonna University, Elele, Rivers State, Nigeria. A total number of 80 subjects were recruited for the study, comprising of 40 subjects before playing volleyball (20 males and 20 females) and 40 subjects after playing volleyball (20 males, 20 females) from Madonna University Nigeria, Elele Campus, Rivers State, Nigeria. The data obtained from the study were presented as Mean ± SD in tables and analysed using student t-test for parametric data using SPSS version 20. The level of significance was set at p<0.05. The results of Table 1 showed that there was increase (p=0.003) in interleukin 6 (IL-6) after playing volleyball compared to before playing volleyball and no significant change (0.079) in iron after playing volleyball compared to before playing volleyball. Table 2 showed that there was no significant increase (p=0.164) in interleukin 6 (IL-6) of males compared to females and no significant change (p=0.589) in iron of males compared to females. Table 3 showed that there was no significant increase (p=0.921) in interleukin 6 (IL-6) of volleyball players aged 15-25 Years compared to volleyball players aged 26-35 Years and no significant change (p=0.503) in iron of volleyball players aged 15-25 Years compared to volleyball players aged 26-35 Years respectively. The study found an increase in interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels in volleyball players after games as opposed to levels before games, demonstrating that physical exercise raises interleukin 6 levels while having no impact on iron levels.
IMPLEMENTING VERTICAL GREENERY ON OFFICE FAÇADE OPENING TO IMPROVE INDOOR LIGHT QUALITY
Authors: Kristanto Luciana , Ekasiwi Sri Nastiti Nugrahani , Dinapradipta Asri
Published: July 2022

In medium-rise office building on tropical climate, façade fenestration mostly dominated by glass curtain wall. In this case, an effort should be done to control the daylight penetration and to shade glare of low sun angle especially from west orientation. The idea is utilized the vertical greenery system (VGS) on facade opening, how it performs as glare limitation as well as accommodating view. Firstly, the variable of artificial shading to light parameter are studied. Then, the previous research of VGS were explored, to find its influential variables. The last step was developed recommendation of VGS implementation on office facade opening to improve light quality. Finding from the study, the most influential variables are the plant species suitable to the climate condition, its canopy leaves area as light variable, and the placement; an integration the plants construction system with other facade elements which consider light angles of incidence and viewer’s sightlines.
Characteristics of CaFe Plasma Parameters by Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Technique
Authors: Hachim Hanaa S. , Aadim Kadhim A.
Published: July 2022

In this work, the effect of laser energy on the properties of a CaFe plasma generated by a Q-switched Nd: YAG laser at the fundamental wavelength was studied using spectroscopy. The Boltzmann plot and Stark broadening method were used to measure the main plasma parameters (electron temperature and electron density). The electron temperature ranged (1.295 -1.929) eV, the electron density ranged (2.25 - 3) ×1018𝑐𝑚−3, and the laser energy ranged (400 – 700) mJ. Other basic plasma properties were also measured, including the Debye length, and the plasma frequency. Laser energy affects all plasma parameters, according to our results.
Dignidade animal na justificação dos direitos animais
Authors: Jesus Carlos Frederico Ramos de
Published: July 2022

Este artigo aborda a consistência da ideia de dignidade na justificação dos direitos animais. Por influência de Kant, a dignidade é vista como atributo exclusivo do ser humano, em virtude de sua racionalidade e autonomia. Este atributo pode ser estendido aos animais? O trabalho mostrará como quatro filósofos da ética animal enfrentaram esse problema: Peter Singer, Tom Regan, Gary Francione e Christine Korsgaard. Veremos como a senciência, em Singer, embasa a igual consideração de interesses entre animais e seres humanos, sem, no entanto, atribuir direitos àqueles. Regan parte de outro fundamento: os animais devem ter direitos porque são sujeitos de uma vida. Francione considera confuso e restritivo o critério utilizado por Regan, reabilitando a senciência e defendendo que todos os animais sencientes devem ser invioláveis. A inviolabilidade traduz-se na personalidade: os animais devem ser pessoas para não serem utilizados como propriedade. Korsgaard concorda que a senciência é o critério para que animais devam ser sujeitos de direito, aduzindo que são fins em si mesmos tão somente pela senciência. Diferentemente dos seres humanos, porém, são fins em si mesmos em sentido passivo, o que não os impede de terem dignidade, no sentido kantiano. Ao reinterpretar Kant, Korsgaard articula o vínculo entre senciência e dignidade, permitindo falar-se em dignidade animal como fundamento, filosoficamente embasado, dos direitos animais.
Plato, life of
Authors: Scholz Peter
Published: July 2022

Plato (428/7–348/7bce), son of Ariston of Athens, was one of the most important philosophers in antiquity. A student of Socrates, he founded the philosophical community known as the Academy. He travelled several times to Sicily, where he had a sometimes difficult relationship with the tyrants of Syracuse.
Hermias, tyrant of Atarneus
Authors: Scholz Peter
Published: July 2022

Hermias was a tyrant of Atarneus in Asia Minor in the fourth centurybce(ca. 350–341) until his execution by the Persian king. His origins are poorly known. He was well‐known as a friend of Aristotle, who married his niece.
Damascus Covenant
, the (Dead Sea Scrolls)
Authors: Dimant Devorah
Published: July 2022

The
Damascus Covenant
, a text known from both the Cairo Genizah and the Dead Sea Scrolls, describes the covenant concluded by the Qumran community during a sojourn in Damascus. The work was probably assembled in the late second or early first century
bce
although some components may have been composed earlier.
Army, Late Antiquity
Authors: Whately Conor
Published: July 2022

In 235 ce, at the beginning of Late Antiquity, though the Roman army had changed from the army of 14 ceat the end of the reign of Augustus, it was still broadly similar. By the seventh century, and in the aftermath of the Arab invasion of the Near East, the transformation of the Roman army had been completed, with significant differences with regard to its organization, size, tactics, strategy, and operations. What had been a heavily armed force, which sought to engage its foes head‐on and whose primary strength lay in its infantry, had become a force that often sought to avoid pitched battle unless left with no alternative, and whose strength lay in its cavalry.
Artisans, trades, and guilds, Late Antiquity
Authors: Gibbs Matt
Published: July 2022

Continuing an earlier practice, artisans from a variety of crafts and trades came together – perhaps under compulsion – to form associations, or more commonly, guilds. These associations offered advantages not only to their members, but also to the state in respect to the collection of taxes, the control and use of labor, and the supply of food and services.
Lex Manciana
Authors: Kehoe Dennis
Published: July 2022

The
Lex Manciana
was a tenure arrangement on imperial estates in North Africa during the Early Roman Empire.
Alinda
Authors: Blümel Wolfgang
Published: July 2022

Alinda was an ancient city in Caria in western Asia Minor. In the fourth century
bce
it was one of the most strongly fortified places in Caria. Significant remains survive, including parts of the city wall.
Potaissa (Cluj, Romania)
Authors: Alexandrescu Cristina‐Georgeta
Published: July 2022

Potaissa was an important Roman town that developed near the legionary camp on the main strategic and commercial thoroughfare of Dacia. Its ruins lie under the present‐day town of Turda.
Kallippos (Callippus) of Eleusis
Authors: Sakeshima Kyohei
Published: July 2022

Kallippos, son of Moirokles, of Eleusis was an Athenian general and diplomat who flourished in the 270s and 260sbce. He is best known for commanding the Athenian force at Thermopylai against the Gauls in 279bce.
Causes of Death Among Individuals With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus by Race and Ethnicity: A Population‐Based Study
Authors: Taylor Tiffany , Anastasiou Christine , Ja Clairissa , Rush Stephanie , Trupin Laura , Dall'Era Maria , Katz Patricia , Barbour Kamil E. , Greenlund Kurt J. , Yazdany Jinoos , Gianfrancesco Milena A.
Published: July 2022

Objective

Non‐White populations are at higher risk of developing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and have more severe outcomes, including mortality. The present study was undertaken to examine how specific causes of death vary by race and ethnicity, including Asian and Hispanic individuals.

Methods

The California Lupus Surveillance Project included SLE cases identified among residents of San Francisco County, CA during January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2009. Cases were matched to the National Death Index over a 10‐year period. Logistic regression examined age‐adjusted differences in causes of death by race, ethnicity, and sex. Age‐standardized mortality ratios between individuals with SLE and the corresponding general population were calculated for the leading cause of death, and observed versus expected deaths were estimated.

Results

The study included 812 individuals of White (38%), Asian (36%), Black (20%), and mixed/other/unknown (5%) race; 15% identified as Hispanic. One hundred thirty‐five deaths were recorded, with a mean ± SD age at death of 62.2 ± 15.6 years. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) was the leading cause of death overall (33%), and across all racial and ethnic groups, followed by rheumatic disease (18%) and hematologic/oncologic conditions (18%). CVD as the underlying cause of death was 3.63 times higher among SLE cases than in the general population. CVD deaths for those with SLE were nearly 4 and 6 times higher for Asian and Hispanic individuals with SLE, respectively, compared to the general population.

Conclusion

Individuals with SLE experience a disproportionate burden of CVD mortality compared to the general population, which is magnified for Asian and Hispanic groups.
Twinning–Detwinning Deformation Mechanism in Ti–15Mo Alloy and Its Effect on the Microstructure Evolution and Yield Strength
Authors: Zhang Yu , Li Xiao , Xin Renlong , Wang Ke
Published: July 2022

{332}<113> twinning is an important deformation mode for metastable β–Ti alloys. However, little is known on the reverse detwinning process and its hardening effect. Herein, detwinning behavior in Ti–15Mo alloy and its effect on the microstructure evolution and yield strength is investigated. Twins are generated during pre‐tension along the rolling direction. Then, the pre‐twinned samples are compressed in the same direction by different strains. It is shown that compressive yield strength is significantly improved by pre‐tension compared with the as‐received alloy. Microstructure characterization reveals that almost all the twins generated in pre‐tension were detwinned during the reverse compression. New twins appear in some β grains by increasing the compression strain. The variant with the highest Schmid factor (SF) is likely selected for twinning. Some paired twins formed at grain boundaries do not have the highest SF, but have a large strain compatibility factor (m′), implying a strong influence from local stress. Profuse slip traces are observed, which transferred across the detwinned regions during the reverse compression, causing severe stress concentrations in the primary twin domains. Based on the experimental observations, a possible strengthening mechanism by the twinning–detwinning behavior is proposed and discussed.
Charge Extraction in Flexible Perovskite Solar Cell Architectures for Indoor Applications – with up to 31% Efficiency
Authors: Teixeira Cristina , Spinelli Pierpaolo , Castriotta Luigi Angelo , Müller David , Öz Senol , Andrade Luísa , Mendes Adélio , Carlo Aldo Di , Würfel Uli , Wojciechowski Konrad , Forgács Dávid
Published: July 2022

Perovskite Solar Cells (PSCs) are well known for their high efficiencies under 1 sun (AM1.5G), however, PSC can also generate power by harvesting the low‐light available indoors. Here, three flexible PSC architectures are presented for indoor applications: with a metal electrode aiming for high efficiency; carbon electrode aiming for high stability and compatibility with large‐scale production; and hole transport material (HTM)‐free carbon for simplifying the fabrication process. A maximum efficiency of 30.9% (30.0%) under 1000 lux (200 lux) is obtained for a PSC with gold electrode. A maximum efficiency of 25.4% (24.7%) and 23.1% (22.3%) is obtained for the carbon devices with and without HTM, respectively, under 1000 lux (200 lux). To the best of the author's knowledge, the efficiency values presented here for a device with a carbon‐based electrode, with and without HTM, are the record values for a flexible PSC at indoor light conditions. Furthermore, the HTM‐free carbon device kept 84% of its initial efficiency after 1000 h at MPPT and lost virtually no performance after 1000 h at 85 °C. Also, non‐encapsulated devices of all configurations withstood 1600 h in air with a maximum loss in efficiency of 6%.
In Situ Growth of Covalent Organic Framework Nanosheets on Graphene as the Cathode for Long‐Life High‐Capacity Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Xiaolin , Jin Yucheng , Wang Hailong , Yang Xiya , Zhang Pianpian , Wang Kang , Jiang Jianzhuang
Published: July 2022

The poor electronic and ionic conductivities of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) severely restrict the development of COF‐based electrodes for practical rechargeable batteries, therefore inspiring more research interest from the direction of both material synthesis and technology. Herein, a dual‐porous COF, USTB‐6, with good crystallinity and rich redox‐active sites is conceived and fabricated by the polymerization of 2,3,8,9,14,15‐hexa(4‐formylphenyl)diquinoxalino [2,3‐a:2′,3′‐c]phenazine and 2,7‐diaminopyrene‐4,5,9,10‐tetraone. In particular, the heterogeneous polymerization of the same starting materials in the presence of graphene affords uniformly dispersed COF nanosheets with a thickness of 8.3 nm on a conductive carbon substrate, effectively enhancing the electronic conductivity of the COF‐based electrode. Such a graphene‐supported USTB‐6 nanosheets cathode when used in a lithium‐ion battery exhibits a specific capacity of 285 mA h g−1 at a current density of 0.2 C and excellent rate performance with a prominent capacity of 188 mA h g−1 at 10 C. More importantly, a capacity of 170 mA h g−1 is retained by using the USTB‐6 nanosheets cathode after 6000 cycles charge and discharge measurement at 5 C.
Orbital Shift‐Induced Boundary Obstructed Topological Materials with a Large Energy Gap
Authors: Mao Ning , Li Runhan , Dai Ying , Huang Baibiao , Yan Binghai , Niu Chengwang
Published: July 2022

Boundary obstructed topological phases caused by Wannier orbital shift between ordinary atomic sites are proposed, which, however, cannot be indicated by symmetry eigenvalues at high symmetry momenta (symmetry indicators) in bulk. On the open boundary, Wannier charge centers can shift to different atoms from those in bulk, leading to in‐gap surface states, higher‐order hinge states or corner states. To demonstrate such orbital shift‐induced boundary obstructed topological insulators, eight material candidates are predicted, all of which are overlooked in the present topological databases. Metallic surface states, hinge states, or corner states cover the large bulk energy gap (e.g., more than 1 eV in TlGaTe2) at related boundary, which are ready for experimental detection. Additionally, these materials are also fragile topological insulators with hourglass‐like surface states.
Brittle PCDTPT Based Elastic Hybrid Networks for Transparent Stretchable Skin‐Like Electronics
Authors: Guo Shanlei , Tong Yanhong , Wang Xue , Zhang Mingxin , Yu Hongyan , Ren Hang , Tang Qingxin , Lu Guanghao , Liu Yichun
Published: July 2022

Organic semiconductors offer the opportunity to develop intrinsically stretchable skin‐like electronics for future applications. However, the lack of intrinsically stretchable materials is still a fundamental challenge, originating from the brittle nature of most organic semiconductors with the fracture strain at a few percent (<10%). Here, a stretchable semiconductor composite is reported by blending the brittle poly[4‐(4,4‐dihexadecyl‐4H‐cyclopenta[1,2‐b:5,4‐b′]dithiophen‐2‐yl)‐alt‐[1,2,5]thiad‐iazolo [3,4‐c] pyridine] (PCDTPT) semiconductor with the crack‐onset strain only at 5% and the styrene‐ethylene‐butylene‐styrene elastomer. This blend films present the increased crack‐onset strain up to 182% and superior optical transparency (>95% at 550 nm), with mobility as high as 2.31 cm2 V−1 s−1. The depth‐dependence light absorption spectra and the conductive atomic force microscopy images in horizontal and vertical directions of the blend film confirm the nonuniform distribution of PCDTPT fibers with sandwiched structure, which weakens the effect of device configuration on mobility. Compared with the conventional uniform film, the sandwiched film weakens the effect of device configuration on mobility. The fully transparent stretchable transistors with the blend films show the outstanding ductility and high optical transparency. This work opens up a feasible path for brittle organic semiconductors used in the transparent stretchable transistor, presenting their promising potential in future see‐through skin‐like electronics.
Favorable outcome of geriatric telemedicine for frail older adults with COVID‐19 staying at home during the omicron tsunami in Hong Kong
Authors: Kong Tak‐kwan
Published: July 2022

Hong Kong was hit by a tsunami of COVID‐19 in mid‐February 2022, impacting on frail older adults with high COVID‐19 mortality. Two older adults with COVID‐19 managed by geriatric telemedicine at home were reported with favorable outcome despite severe frailty (Clinical Frailty Score 7). Stressed by COVID‐19, both presented with the geriatric giants or frailty syndromes of brain failure (delirium) and balance failure (falls). Their successful outcome resulted not from COVID‐19 antiviral treatment, but individualized holistic person‐centered care attending to the frailty syndromes: optimized treatment of comorbid conditions by medication review, medication reduction on recognition of drug‐induced hypotension and hypoglycaemia, appropriate use of medication to reduce iatrogenesis, caregivers' replenishment of fluid and nutrition deficit, oxygen support during critical hypoxic period, and recognition and early treatment of superimposed infections (bacterial respiratory tract superinfection, herpes zoster). Their social support was good. Family members and helpers became invaluable resources in providing the much‐needed personal care, nutrition, hydration, comfort, and health monitoring to keep the geriatrician informed of their condition and to draw up an individualized management plan. Home environment and human presence were therapeutic in delirium care, avoiding damage from separation and isolation commonly practiced in this COVID‐19 pandemic.
SpeedMixing: Rapid Tribochemical Synthesis and Discovery of Pharmaceutical Cocrystals without Milling or Grinding Media**
Authors: Teoh Yong , Ayoub Ghada , Huskić Igor , Titi Hatem M. , Nickels Christopher W. , Herrmann Brad , Friščić Tomislav
Published: July 2022

We present SpeedMixing, a rapid blending technology, as an approach for fast mechanosynthesis and discovery of model pharmaceutical cocrystals through rapid spinning in the absence of bulk solvents and milling/grinding media. Syntheses of pharmaceutical cocrystals based on the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) carbamazepine, dihydrocarbamazepine, and nicotinamide demonstrate SpeedMixing as a method for rapid, scalable, as well as controllable and selective synthesis of cocrystals, cocrystal polymorphs and stoichiomorphs, including the discovery of an unexpected methanol solvate of the archetypal cocrystal of carbamazepine and saccharin, which has eluded extensive screens over 20 years.
Agglomeration tendency and activated carbon concentration effects on activated carbon‐polysulfone mixed matrix membrane performance: A design of experiment formulation study
Authors: Lewis Jeremy , Alshami Ali , Talukder Musabbir , Owoade Ademola , Baker Kelsey , Onaizi Sagheer
Published: July 2022

Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) are effective materials for emerging separation applications. While MMMs show promise, various membrane formation schemes have produced particle agglomerations, surface ruptures, and varying separation performance as a result. In this work, a replicated 2 × 23 full factorial design of experiment (DOE) and a mixture analysis was conducted to investigate the effects of activated carbon, polyethylene glycol (PEG), and solvent type, used during MMM formation. Aniline blue filtration was used as a model for performance. A thorough analysis was conducted on contact angle, agglomeration frequency, water flux, and dye rejection. Specifically, a novel and facile method to study agglomeration tendencies is presented. Among other trends, agglomeration tendencies were mitigated by the addition of PEG during the fabrication process. Water flux increased from 10 to 55 LMH when PEG was used as a pore former and dye rejection increased from 72% to 90% with the addition of AC particles.
Evaluation of nanofibril chitosan@8‐formyl‐7‐hydroxy‐coumarin hydrogel having distinct auto‐fluorescence efficiency: Structure–properties relation, improved antioxidant, and cellular imaging
Authors: Ghorai Shubhankar , Jana Biswajit , Pan Dipika , Ramasamy Thilagam , Parshi Nira , Arumugam Gnanamani , Ganguly Jhuma
Published: July 2022

The modification at the branching of chitosan using 8‐formyl‐7‐hydroxy‐coumarin (ChCm) through chemically cross‐linked has been structured for hydrogel fabrication. ChCm produced stable mechanical properties, improved swelling capacity, and delayed degradation for new cross linking‐functionalized during experimental works. It also imparted high antioxidant potency. The swelling water ratio of this hydrogel makes it robust and elastic, providing a mechanical basis to keep the hydrogel strong and steady. A remarkable self‐fluorescence behavior has been witnessed. The distinct photo‐sensitiveness has been studied thoroughly as time, temperature, and solvent‐dependent spectral analysis to establish the ESIPT mechanism and improve stability in various conditions. Detailed instrumental‐structural evaluations are explored as required, and optimized the gel skeleton and photo activities are using DFT calculations. The effectiveness of radical scavenging using DPPH, antioxidant power using FRAP assay, and chelation ability have been observed during the evaluation of antioxidant potency for hydrogel. The role of phenolic‐OH is very significant not only for optical fluorescence enhancement by ESIPT but also for the improved antioxidant abilities. As well as being less toxic, bio‐compatible, and photostable, it could be used to image fibroblast 3T3 cells by fluorescence; current hydrogel has gained vast potential for developing dynamic biomaterials in multiple applications.
The impact of cellulose nanocrystals on the rheology of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and sodium alginate
Authors: Cui Shaoning , Cui Congli , Ge Shengju , Xie Wei , Yu Mengting , Li Ying , Sun Qingjie , Xiong Liu
Published: July 2022

At present, the physical properties of hydrocolloids limit their wide application in food industry. To improve the viscoelasticity of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and sodium alginate (SA), cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were added into CMC and SA solutions to regulate the non‐Newtonian flow behaviors of composite systems under different conditions. The rheological properties of CMC/CNCs or SA/CNCs composite systems were studied using steady rheological measurements, dynamic rheological measurements, and creep compliance experiments. It was found that the viscosities and elastic modulus of CMC were positively related to CNCs concentrations in acid, neutral or alkaline environments. When the CNCs content was higher than 5% at pH 9.45, the gelation of CMC was accelerated, and the gelation strength was increased. The damping factor of SA decreased with increasing calcium ions contents. When calcium ions content was higher than 0.07%, the damping factor of SA was less than 1, indicating that SA system achieved gel transformation. The effect of CNCs on the apparent viscosity, shear stress, and storage modulus of CMC was more obvious in comparison to that of SA. Overall, as a rheology modifier, CNCs can minimize the contents of food colloids in any functional fluid while maintaining the thickening rheology.
Thermomechanical and optical characteristics of nanoquartz‐ and nanozircon‐filled poly(methyl methacrylate) composites
Authors: Hilmi Allif Rosyidy , Purnamasari Novita Dwi , Wulandari Wiwit , Sari Anisa Indah , Fauziyah Nur Aini , Asrori M. Zainul , Pratapa Suminar
Published: July 2022

The thermomechanical and optical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/quartz and PMMA/zircon composites at filler content variations of 0, 1, 2.5, and 5 wt% have been studied. The silica quartz and zircon powders were derived from local sands collected from Tanah Laut, South Kalimantan, and Kereng Pangi, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, respectively. The nanoquartz and nanozircon fillers (herewith were designated as quartz and zircon respectively) were obtained by milling these powders for 15 h. Dynamic mechanical analysis was used to acquire the storage modulus and glass transition temperature as the thermomechanical properties of the PMMA/quartz and PMMA/zircon composites. Meanwhile, the optical properties were determine using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. Results indicate that zircon fillers can improve the storage modulus of the composites up to 1.85 times that of PMMA alone. Zircon is more effective than silica in improving the storage modulus of PMMA. Implementing the degradation rate model shows us that all the composites have nearly the same degradation behavior in the glassy region. Moreover, the addition of fillers decreases the band gap energies.
Toward the cholinesterase inhibition potential of TADDOL derivatives: Seminal biological and computational studies
Authors: Costantino Andrea R. , Charbe Nitin , Duarte Yorley , Gutiérrez Margarita , Giordano Ady , Prasher Parteek , Dua Kamal , Mandolesi Sandra , Zacconi Flavia C.
Published: July 2022

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a degenerative neurological disease characterized by gradual loss of cognitive skills and memory. The exact pathogenesis involved still remains unrevealed, but several studies indicate the involvement of an array of different enzymes, underlining the multifactorial character of the disease. Inhibition of these enzymes is therefore a powerful approach in the development of AD treatments, with promising candidates, including acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), and monoamine oxidase. Interestingly, AChE is the target of a major pesticide family (organophosphates), with several reports indicating an intersection between the pesticide's activity and AD. In this study, various TADDOL derivatives were synthesized and their in vitro activities as AChE/BuChE inhibitors as well as their antioxidant activities were studied. Molecular modeling studies revealed the capability of TADDOL derivatives to bind to AChE and induce inhibition, especially compounds 2b and 3c furnishing IC50 values of 36.78 ± 8.97 and 59.23 ± 5.31 µM, respectively. Experimental biological activities and molecular modeling studies clearly demonstrate that TADDOL derivatives with specific stereochemistry have an interesting potential for the design of potent AChE inhibitors. The encouraging results for compounds 2b and 3c indicate them as promising scaffolds for selective and potent AChE inhibitors.
The relationship among summer atmospheric boundary layer height over the Taklimakan Desert, its land surface parameters and Eurasian circulation
Authors: Wang Minzhong , Zhang Jiantao
Published: July 2022

To investigate the relationship among summer atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) over the Taklimakan Desert (TD), its land surface parameters and large scale meteorological field, the Urumqi Institute of Desert Meteorology of China Meteorological Administration conducted a comprehensive observation of boundary layer in Tazhong, the hinterland of TD from July 1 to 31, 2016. The correlations between the ABL height and surface sensible heat, latent heat, air temperature, turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) and buoyancy term are analyzed by using the observed GPS sounding data, the surface layer micro meteorological data in the hinterland of the TD and ERA5 reanalysis data so as to study the correlation of the ABL height and Eurasian circulation field. The research results indicate: (1) The height of summer ABL over the TD does not fully correspond with the variation tendency of surface sensible heat flux. In addition to surface sensible heat, large scale advection and residual mixed layer (RML) are also crucial factor influencing ABL. (2) The surface TKE over the TD is consistent with ABL height variation, with the correlation coefficient of 0.62. Hence the equation of ABL height and TKE is expressed as: Y = 1609.2X4 – 12,828X3 + 35,617X2 –39,514X + 15,858. (3) When the ABL height over the TD is quite high, 500 hPa altitude in Xinjiang is mostly controlled by anticyclone circulation, and the easterly low level jet (LLJ) tends to be formed at 850 hPa the next night. (4) The high correlation areas of summer ABL height over the TD and Eurasian temperature field are Xinjiang and Balkash Lake region. Significant positive correlation is identified between the ABL height and the temperature field at 850, 700, and 500 hPa of the above regions. The maximum correlation coefficient reaches 0.7. The study deepens the understanding of the relationship among the ABL process over the TD, land surface parameters and Eurasian circulation.
Arabidopsis plants engineered for high root sugar secretion enhance the diversity of soil microorganisms
Authors: Song Min , Zhang Xingjian , Yang Jintao , Gao Chen , Wei Yahong , Chen Shaolin , Liesche Johannes
Published: July 2022

Plants secrete sugars from their roots into the soil, presumably to support beneficial plant‐microbe interactions. Accordingly, manipulation of sugar secretion might be a viable strategy to enhance plant health and productivity. To evaluate the effect of increased root sugar secretion on plant performance and the soil microbiome, we overexpressed glucose and sucrose‐specific membrane transporters in root epidermal cells of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. These plants showed strongly increased rates of sugar secretion in a hydroponic culture system. When grown on soil, the transporter‐overexpressor plants displayed a higher photosynthesis rate, but reduced shoot growth compared to the wild‐type control. Amplicon sequencing and qPCR analysis of rhizosphere soil samples indicated a limited effect on the total abundance of bacteria and fungi, but a strong effect on community structure in soil samples associated with the overexpressors. Notable changes included the increased abundance of bacteria belonging to the genus Rhodanobacter and the fungi belonging to the genus Cutaneotrichosporon, while Candida species abundance was reduced. The potential influences of the altered soil microbiome on plant health and productivity are discussed. The results indicate that the engineering of sugar secretion can be a viable pathway to enhancing the carbon sequestration rate and optimizing the soil microbiome.
Interaction study of salvianolic acids for injection on pharmacokinetics of clopidogrel in rats using LC–MS/MS
Authors: Zheng Dayong , Li Xiao , Chu Yang , Li Yazhuo , Li Dekun , Ju Aichun , Wu Yi , Xie Yuesheng , Li Wei
Published: July 2022

Salvianolic acids for injection (SAI) is developed from traditional Chinese medicine and approved for the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Clopidogrel is an inhibitor of platelet aggregation, which is often prescribed for patients in combination with SAI. This present study aimed to assess the effects of SAI on the pharmacogenomics, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of clopidogrel, thereby ensuring the safety and efficacy of coadministration. In vitro cytochrome P450 isoenzyme assays were performed in human liver microsomes using LC–MS/MS method to assess the metabolites of CYPs substrates. The effects of SAI on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic behaviors of clopidogrel were investigated in rats. The main pharmacokinetic parameters were analyzed using LC–MS/MS. Prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, bleeding time, and inhibition of platelet aggregation were measured to evaluate the effects of pharmacodynamics. Our study revealed that the clinical dose of SAI has no significant inhibitory effect on clopidogrel‐related liver microsome metabolic CYP450 isoenzymes. Moreover, SAI did not affect the pharmacokinetics of clopidogrel when rats were administered both single and multiple doses. In pharmacodynamic study, SAI has no effect on platelet aggregation rate, prothrombin time, and activated partial thromboplastin time of clopidogrel but could significantly prevent the risk of bleeding caused by clopidogrel.
Metastatic melanoma of the heart: Retrospective cohort study and systematic review of prevalence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes
Authors: Balinski Alexander M. , Vasbinder Alexi L. , Kerndt Connor C. , Catalan Tonimarie C. , Parry Nathan P. , Rehman Rafey A. , Blakely Pennelope , Yeow Raymond Y. , Leja Monika J. , Lao Christopher D. , Fecher Leslie A. , Hayek Salim S.
Published: July 2022

Background

Cardiac metastasis of melanoma is rare and typically diagnosed post‐mortem. Here we perform a retrospective cohort study and systematic review of patients with metastatic melanoma to characterize prevalence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of cardiac metastasis.

Methods

We reviewed the electronic medical records of all outpatients with metastatic melanoma who underwent evaluation at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor from January 2009 to January 2022, identifying patients with a clinical or histopathologic diagnosis of cardiac metastasis. We performed a systematic review of the literature to summarize the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with melanoma and cardiac metastasis.

Results

Overall, 23 of 1254 (1.8%) patients with metastatic melanoma were diagnosed with cardiac metastasis. Cardiac metastasis was reported in the right ventricle (65%), left ventricle (35%), and right atrium (35%). A total of 11 (48%) patients experienced at least one cardiovascular complication after the diagnosis of cardiac metastasis, the most common being arrhythmia (30%), heart failure (22%), and pericardial effusion (17%). Immunotherapy was more commonly used in patients with cardiac metastasis (80% vs 65%; p = 0.005). Mortality at 2‐years post‐diagnosis was higher for patients with cardiac metastasis compared to those without (59% vs 37%; p = 0.034). Progression of malignancy was the underlying cause of death of all patients.

Conclusions

Cardiac metastasis occurs in <2% of patients with metastatic melanoma, can affect all cardiac structures, and is associated with various cardiovascular complications and high mortality.
Comparative evaluation of the functionality of faba bean protein isolates with major legume proteins in the market
Authors: Shi Dai , Nickerson Michael T.
Published: July 2022

Background and Objectives

The production of faba beans (Vicia Faba L.) is emerging in the Canadian prairies. To investigate their utilization potential as value‐added ingredients, the physicochemical and functional properties of protein isolates prepared from three faba bean cultivars (Fabelle, Malik, and Snowbird) currently grown in Canada were compared with those of yellow pea (CDC Amarillo) and soybean (AAC 26‐15).

Findings

Higher than pea (23.1%), the faba bean had protein contents of ~31.4% and a small amount of fat (~1.2%). The protein isolates of faba bean (FPI), pea (PPI), and soy (SPI) were broadly comparable in surface tension, protein solubility, and oil holding capacity; however, surface charge was higher for FPI. The interfacial tension, water holding capacity, foaming, and emulsifying properties were also generally similar between FPI and PPI but different from SPI. Among faba bean cultivars, Snowbird was richer in protein with a higher proportion of legumins and was better at stabilizing emulsions while having a lower emulsifying activity.

Conclusions

The functionalities of FPI broadly resembled those of PPI, while being comparable or higher to those of SPI, suggesting the potential of using FPI as an alternative functional ingredient in product formulations.

Significance and Novelty

The study on the representative cultivars of Canadian‐grown faba beans updated the knowledge base concerning the functional differences among cultivars and how they compete with major legume proteins in the market, while providing insights on possible applications of faba bean protein ingredients.
Polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS) as Sustainable Reductant in the Titanocene Catalyzed Epoxide Hydrosilylation
Authors: Schacht Jonathan Heinrich , Wu Shangze , Klare Sven , Höthker Sebastian , Schmickler Niklas , Gansäuer Andreas
Published: July 2022

Here, we describe that polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS) is a sustainable terminal reductant in the titanocene catalyzed hydrosilylation of epoxides. The products formally constitute the anti‐Markovnikov products of H2O‐addition to alkenes. PMHS is not only a more sustainable and cheaper reductant than other silanes such as PhSiH3 and Ph(Me)SiH2. It also results in a higher diastereoselectivity of epoxide reduction.
Reactivity of Primary Phosphines and Primary Phosphine Sulfides towards Imines
Authors: Lamberink Jan‐Willem , Boyle Paul D. , Gilroy Joe B. , Noël James J. , Blacquiere Johanna M. , Ragogna Paul J.
Published: July 2022

Reactivity of primary phosphines with two stoichiometric equivalents of imine results in the formation of bis‐α‐aminophosphines (2 a–e), which can be subsequently oxidized in the presence of S8 or H2O2 to generate air stable bis‐α‐aminophosphine sulfides (2 b–m(S/O)). To elucidate the mechanism of this three‐component reaction, Hammett analysis, kinetic isotope effect (KIE), and trapping experiments were performed. Ultimately a P(V)–P(III) tautomerization is invoked, followed by nucleophilic attack by the P(III) species to generate the desired products.