bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supply and Demand Relationship of Taxi Battery Exchange Based on Big Data: A Case Study of Beijing, China
Authors: Gao Zhenhua , Wang Jing , Ren Wenrui
Published: May 2021

The power exchange mode is widely applied in the rental field as an efficient energy supply method for new energy vehicles. The power supply-demand relationship analysis swaps. In particular, the quantitative spatial analysis of sub-regions is of great significance for optimizing the spatial layout of power swapping stations, better operation of taxis, and more efficient power swapping stations. Therefore, this paper analyzes the correlation between the ten states of taxis and the corresponding power exchange. The present analysis targets the limitations in the existing methods to analyze the power exchange supply and demand and utilizing the big data pertaining to real-time taxi operation, order-taking mode, and station-swapping operation. As per the correlations, a calculation method is established to determine the power exchange demand based on the location where the orders are received and the matching method of the power exchange supply and demand. Besides verifying the scientific nature and feasibility of the method empirically, this study also ensured its great flexibility, which allows it to adapt to more complicated social scenarios. The big data analysis indicates that determining the spatial distribution of demand based on the location from where the taxi orders are received is far more rational and practical. Thus, this study has a vital role in guiding the location and layout of interchange stations.
How a Brazilian Public University Understands Sustainability: A Study Based on Sociological Discourse Analysis
Authors: Melo José Florentino Vieira de , Coelho Ana Lúcia de Araújo Lima , Carvalho Guilhardo Barros Moreira de , Costa Nicolle Sales da
Published: May 2021

This paper aims to analyze the sustainability discourse manifested by a public institution dedicated to higher education located in the northeastern region of Brazil, the Federal University of Paraiba, during the time interval between the years 2009 and 2020. It used Sociological Discourse Analysis as a research method. It also used the documentation produced by the institution as a data source, in particular its Institutional Development Plans and Management Reports, as well as the media content produced and broadcast by its television channel and magazine. The research also used conversations held with employees linked to organizational management and observations recorded through photographs. Some questions were the basis for the data analysis: Who is the speaker; What is the position of the speaker; Which audiences did the speaker target; What did the speaker silence in the discourse; How did the speaker organize the speech; The research discovered discursive positions, narrative configurations, and semantic spaces that revealed an institution focused on its social function. It used teaching, research, and extension activities to be active in contact with society but placed its internal challenges in the background. It emerged that, despite understanding the importance of sustainability, internal actions to transform the organization into a laboratory for experimentation in this sense decreased due to the prioritization of combating recurrent socio-economic problems.
Fibonacci-triple sequences and some fundamental properties
Authors: Singh Bijendra , Sikhwal Omprakash
Published: May 2021

Fibonacci sequence stands as a kind of super sequence with fabulous properties. This note presents Fibonacci-Triple sequences that may also be called 3-F sequences. This is the explosive development in the region of Fibonacci sequence. Our purpose of this paper is to demonstrate fundamental properties of Fibonacci-Triple sequence.
Uniqueness of meromorphic functions sharing two sets with finite weight ii
Authors: Banerjee Abhijit
Published: May 2021

With the help of the notion of weighted sharing of sets we deal with the well known question of Gross and prove some uniqueness theorems on meromorphic functions sharing two sets. Our results will improve and supplement some recent results of the present author.
Approximation numbers of matrix transformations and inclusion maps
Authors: Gupta M. , Acharya L. R.
Published: May 2021

In this paper we establish relationships of the approximation numbers of matrix transformations acting between the vector-valued sequence spaces spaces of the type $\lambda(X)$ defined corresponding to a scalar-valued sequence space $\lambda$ and a Banach space $(X,\|.\|)$ as $$\lambda(X)=\{\overline x=\{x_i\}: x_i\in X, \forall~i\in \mathbb{N},~\{\|x_i\|_X\}\in \lambda\};$$ with those of their component operators. This study leads to a characterization of a diagonal operator to be approximable. Further, we compute the approximation numbers of inclusion maps acting between $\ell^p(X)$ spaces for $1\leq p\leq \infty$.
New properties of the Jung-Kim-Srivastava integral operators
Authors: Frasin B. A.
Published: May 2021

The object of the present paper is to prove new subordinations results of analytic functions defined by two integral operators $P^{^\alpha }$ and $% Q_{_\beta }^{^\alpha }$. Several corollaries and consequences of the main results are also considered.
Coefficient estimate for a subclass of close-to-convex functionswith respect to symmetric points
Authors: Mehrok B. S. , Singh Gagandeep , Gupta Deepak
Published: May 2021

For reals $A,B,C,D$  such that  $-1\le D \le  B< A\le  C\le 1$, a subclass $K_s(A,B;C,D)$ of analytic functions $f(z)=z+\sum_{k=2}^\infty a_kz^k $ in the open unit disc $E=\{z:|z|<1\} $ is introduced. The object of the present paper is todetermine the coefficient estimate for functions $f(z)$ belonging tothe class  $K_s(A,B;C,D)$.
Recovering singular differential operators on noncompact star-type graphs from Weyl functions
Authors: Yurko V.
Published: May 2021

Bessel-type differential operators on noncompact star-type graphs are studied. We establish properties of the spectral characteristics and then we investigate the inverse problem of recovering the operator from the so-called Weyl vector. For this inverse problem we prove a uniqueness theorem and propose a procedure for constructing the solution using the method of spectral mappings.
Relationship Between School Performance and Breakfast Quality in Refugee Children: Case Study of Mardin Region
Authors: Deger Vasfiye Bayram , Arslan Nurgul , Dag Ibrahim , CifCi Sema
Published: May 2021

Background: Many studies have found that the academic success of school-age children is proved to be in close relation with regular and healthy nutrition. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the relationship between breakfast quality and academic success of refugee primary-school children. Methods: After scanning 24 schools in the city center, 384 students who were refugee Syrians from primary schools in Mardin city center were included. In addition to the demographic characteristics of the individuals, breakfast habits of these students were investigated. Results: In this study, 91.6% of the children stated that they have breakfast habits. The reasons for skipping breakfast among students of all levels can be listed as being late for school (67.8%) and not liking to have breakfast (18.8%). The breakfast quality index (BQI) score was low in both boys and girls and all age groups. According to this marked value, all age groups had poor nutrition in terms of breakfast. Although girls showed a significant difference in all age groups (P = 0.046), this difference was not significant among boys (P = 0.671). The number of students with a breakfast quality score higher than 8 was very low. It was observed that boys had the highest academic success with the lowest breakfast quality score. The breakfast quality score of girls with the best academic success ranged between 4 - 7 points. Conclusions: It was observed that academic success was linked to having breakfast habit, and students had breakfast habit performed relatively better in school compared to those who did not.
Literatür Taraması: Dağınık Yazılım Geliştirmede Yaşanan Zorluklar
Authors: Kahya Murat Dogus , Şeneler Çağla
Published: May 2021

Küresel şirketler tarafında son on yılda farklı lokasyonlarda yazılım geliştirme popüler olmaya başladı.Farklı lokasyonlarda geliştirme ile birlikte, aynı lokasyonda yazılım geliştirmede yaşanmayan yeni zorluklar ortaya çıkmaya başladı.Bununla birlikte yazılım geliştirme toplulukları iletişim, koordinasyon ve kontrol süreçlerinin yaşadığı zorlukları son yıllarda araştırıyor. Fakat son yıllarda yayınlanan çalışmalar çoğunlukla bir kaç şirketi göz önünde bulunduran deneysel ve vaka çalışmalarını içermektedir. Bu çalışmada 2007 ile 2017 yılları arasnındaki deneysel çalışmalar derlenerek zamansal, coğrafik ve sosyo-kültürel açılarından yaşanan zorluklar literatür incelemesi olarak sunulacaktır. Makale kapsamında 607 çalışma incelenerek bulunan sonuçlar araştırmacılar ile paylaşılmaktadır.Sonraki araştırmalar ve çıkarımlar raporun en sonunda sunulmaktadır.
Evaluation of a New Rapid Antigen Detection Test for the Diagnosis of Influenza Virus Infection in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Southern India
Authors: Vangara Harika , Kalawat Usha , Kumar B Siddhartha , Badur Manohar , Madhusudan Mukkara , Mudhigeti Nagaraja , Dakshinamurthy Soumya
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Rapid antigen testing can help in early diagnosis of Influenza in resource limited settings in patients presenting with Influenza Like Illness (ILI). Aim: To evaluate the usefulness of Rapid Influenza Direct antigen Testing (RIDT) in comparison to Real Time Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) for diagnosis of Influenza virus infection in clinically suspected patients with ILI in a tertiary care hospital. Material and Methods: A prospective observational independent study was done to evaluate RIDT for Influenza virus infection, considering RT-PCR as gold standard. Throat swabs and nasal swabs from patients meeting Category 3 definition of ILI by Ministry Of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) were collected from July 20th, 2019 to October 20th, 2019 from hospitals in and around the study area. Onsite Rapid test (Biogenix, China) was used as per manufactures instructions for rapid detection of Influenza antigen. RNA extraction was done using Qiagen kit followed by RT-PCR using primer, probes recommended by National Institute of Virology (NIV, Pune) as per their protocols. Data was recorded on a predesigned proforma and managed using Microsoft Excel 2018 (Microsoft Corp, Redmond, WA). The Statistical software MedCalc version 9.1 for Windows was used for data analysis. Results: The overall sensitivity of the RIDT was 37.9% and specificity was 94.4%. The Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and Negative Predictive Value (NPV) were 73.3% and 78.8%, respectively. Kappa was calculated to be 0.37 that suggested a fair agreement between RIDT and RT-PCR. When the Cycle threshold (Ct) values were compared to the results of RIDT, there were more false positives at low Ct value and more false negatives at high Ct values. Conclusion: The RIDT is not useful in screening during an outbreak in acute care settings. The negative result of RIDT should be followed up with RT-PCR. With a strong clinical suspicion, it is better to start antivirals than wait for laboratory report in severely ill patients with ILI.
Evaluation of Concurrent Malaria and Dengue Infections among Febrile Patients- A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Vasava Sangita Devubhai , Lakhani Sucheta Jitendra , Lakhani Jitendra Devjibhai
Published: May 2021

Introduction: There are several tropical mosquito borne infections, such as Malaria and Dengue, these are the two major and common arthropod borne infections that cause high morbidity and mortality in many patients and are major public health concern worldwide. Concurrent malaria and dengue infection is an important condition that is infrequently reported. Aim: To find out the prevalence rate of co-infection for both dengue and malaria and also to associate the severity of such co-infections with symptoms and haematological parameters. Materials and Methods: In observational cross-sectional study, samples were collected from 604 febrile patients clinically suspected for malaria and dengue attending the Medicine Out Patient Department (OPD) of Dhiraj Hospital, Gujarat, India. The samples were diagnosed for malaria by using rapid malaria antigen test kit and peripheral blood smear microscopy for the identification of Plasmodium spp. The dengue NS-1 antigen, (Immunoglobulin) IgM and IgG antibodies rapid kit were use to rule out dengue infection. The statistical analysis done by software EPI info. Results: In the present study, out of 604, 58 patients (9.6%) were positive for malaria and 80 patients (13.24%) were positive for dengue, while 21 patients (3.47%) were having concomitant infection with both dengue and malaria. The most affected age group was 31-60 years, 45.53%. The study revealed male preponderance (61.59%), hepatomegaly and jaundice were seen in 52.38% patients, haemorrhagic manifestations in 23.80%, kidney failure in 4.76% (1), and thrombocytopenia (platelet count <150,000/cubic millimeter (cmm)) were noted in 95.23% patients. Conclusion: It is mandatory to test any febrile patient for both malaria and dengue so that the diagnosis of the patient is not held back by missing any one. The clinicians who treat febrile patients in or from endemic areas must thoroughly examine and diagnose for both malaria and dengue, still one or the other is positive. Vector control, health education and good hygiene are community based preventive measures that are needed to control both the diseases.
Utility of Kumkum as a Counterstain in Histopathological Evaluation of Cervix: An Unexplored Archaic Behooveful Colourant
Authors: Navya N , Kumarguru BN , Ramaswamy AS , Swethadri GK , Janakiraman P
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The turmeric extract has been used as a potential alternative for eosin on routine histopathology sections. Kumkum is made from saffron flowers of Crocus sativus L. with mild use of turmeric. Aim: To evaluate the staining characteristics of kumkum solution as a counterstain and to compare the staining characteristics of kumkum solution and turmeric solution in histopathology sections of cervix tissue. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective observational study conducted at a rural tertiary care referral institute, PES Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, India, from May 2019 to July 2019. For each case, cervix tissue sections were stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E), Haematoxylin and Turmeric (H&T) and Haematoxylin and Kumkum (H&K). The staining characteristics of H&T and H&K was documented and evaluated using a scoring system by comparing with that of conventional H&E sections. The parameters were analysed for statistical significance. Chi-square test and two-sample t-test were the statistical tools used to analyse the data. All statistical calculations were done through statistical software STATA version 14.1. Results: A total of 57 cases were analysed. H&K was better than H&T with respect to contrast at low power, morphological details of cytoplasm, nucleus and acellular structures (p<0.001). The overall performance of H&K was better than H&T and was statistically highly significant (p<0.001). Conclusion: Kumkum appears to be an efficient counterstain for demonstrating various structures in histopathology sections of cervix tissue. It may be considered as an unexplored archaic behooveful colourant. The utility of kumkum may be extended to study the histopathology of other tissues and organ systems in the body.
Cutaneous Diphtheria by Nontoxigenic Corynebacterium Diphtheriae in Diabetic Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Singla Pooja , Mane Pratibha , Singh Prashant
Published: May 2021

Chronic diabetes mellitus is a significant risk factor for skin and soft tissue infections. Corynebacterium diphtheriae is a rare cause of wound infection in chronic diabetic patients. Here, a rare case of wound infection by non-toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriaein a chronic diabetic 45-year-old female patient has been reported. She presented with multiple discharging punched out ulcers on lower back. Diagnosis was confirmed by conventional PCR detecting rpoB gene and toxigenicity testing by Elek’s gel precipitation test. Patient was treated with IV benzylpenicillin and regular dressing. Isolation of single opportunistic microorganism creates a characteristic feature in the present case.
Correlation of Gamma Glutamyl Transferase with Traditional Risk Markers of Cardiovascular Disease in Different Obesity Phenotypes
Authors: Meena Amit Kumar , Sharma Sonali , Gupta Barkha , Ahmed Asrar
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The increased prevalence of overweight, obesity, and metabolic syndrome has revealed that liver enzymes have a potential role as determinants of metabolic conditions such as, hyperlipidemia, and Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). Aim: The study aimed to investigate the correlation between liver enzymes with anthropometric indices of obesity and lipid profile in different obese phenotypes at a tertiary care. Materials and Methods: The present observational study was conducted on a total of 180 obese participants of either gender in the age group 18-59 years from December 2018 to May 2019. These were further divided into two phenotypic groups viz., Metabolically Healthy Obese (MHO group; n=90) and Metabolically Unhealthy Obese (MUHO group; n=90) according to NCEP ATP III criteria.Traditional cardiovascular risk factors were evaluated in the study participants through anthropometric viz., Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist Circumference (WC), Hip Circumference (HC), waist–hip ratio (WHR), blood pressure and biochemical investigations i.e., serum glucose, lipid profile and liver enzymes. Data was analysed by using Microsoft excel software. Results: Among 180 obese participants, 76 were males and 104 females with mean age 40.42±10.84 years. In MUHO phenotype, Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) showed a strong positive correlation with BMI (r=0.413, p=0.00001), lipid parameters viz., LDL-C (r=0.3785, p=0.0001), TC (r=0.2953, p=0.0023), TG (r=0.2623, p=0.006) and negative correlation with HDL-C (-r=0.3167, p=0.001). No significant correlation was found in MHO phenotype between liver enzymes, BMI and lipid profile parameters. Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that GGT shows a strong positive correlation with traditional risk factors in MUHO participants. Thus, raised GGT may be considered as a risk marker of CVD in MUHO phenotype.
Laboratory Diagnosis of SARS Corona Virus-2 Infection: Single Centre Experience of First 12,000 Samples
Authors: Patil Prashant , Thosani Pratik , Karade Santosh , Anand Kavita Bala , Shergill SPS , Sen Sourav , Gupta Rajiv Mohan
Published: May 2021

Introduction: First spotted in Wuhan, China, World Health Organisation declared the deadly outbreak caused by novel Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS CoV-2) as global pandemic on March 11, 2020. With over 72 million cases globally till December 2020, countries need to gear up to detect, isolate and treat Corona Virus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) cases. Laboratories play a crucial role in diagnosis thereby instituting early contact tracing and quarantine measures. The laboratory based COVID-19 diagnostic testing data may help in formulating strategies to contain the spread of infection. Aim: To describe key patient variables of the respiratory samples processed for SARS-CoV-2 by Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) at a diagnostic laboratory. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive, single centre study carried out at ICMR approved COVID-19 diagnostic laboratory, nasopharyngeal swabs received in Viral Transport Medium (VTM) were tested for SARS-CoV-2 infection by RT-PCR. Key patient variables, like age, gender, symptoms and sample positivity rate were tabulated. The demographic and clinical data of samples tested were summarised by medians and Interquartile Range (IQR) for continuous variables and by proportions for categorical variables. Results: A total of 12,187 samples were received between 21st March to 8th July 2020. The data from 11,196 individuals were complete and were included in the analysis. Overall, 2,053 samples were tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 indicating positivity rate of 18.33%. Sample positivity was highest (63.91%) among high-risk contacts of a laboratory confirmed case. The maximum number of samples tested belonged to age group of 21-40 years and male predominance was observed. Conclusion: Although social distancing, mask usage, hand hygiene and respiratory etiquettes are important measures for containment of COVID-19, strengthening and capacity building of laboratory network is crucial for mitigating the pandemic.
Morphometry of the Thyroid Gland and its Correlation with Various Anthropometric Parameters in Asymptomatic Indian Young Adults- A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Aggarwal Nikhil , Sehgal Garima , Pankaj Arvind Kumar , Verma Rakesh Kumar , Parihar Anit , Manik Punita
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The volume, shape and size of the thyroid gland varies with age and sex. Morphometry of the thyroid with particular emphasis on its volume is an essential and most important parameter which must be evaluated. It is helpful in the diagnosis and monitoring of various thyroid diseases. Aim: To evaluate the volume of the normal thyroid gland and thickness of thyroid isthmus by ultrasonography and to observe its correlation with sex, height, weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), Neck Circumference (NC), Body Surface Area (BSA) and Lean Body Mass (LBM) in asymptomatic subjects. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study which included 100 volunteers (50 males and 50 females) from among 1st year MBBS/BDS students, who were attending classes in the Department of Anatomy, King George’s Medical University, UP, Lucknow during April 2019-March 2020. Detailed information (sex, height, weight, NC) was recorded for every subject. Also, BMI, BSA and LBM were calculated for each. Thereafter, ultrasound was performed to measure the dimensions of the thyroid gland. The statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. Student t-test (to test the significance of two means), Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and bivariate correlation using Karl Pearson correlation coefficient (r) were used as statistical tests; and p-value <0.05 was regarded as statistically significant. Results: The mean volume of the right lobe of the thyroid gland was found to be 3.89±1.28 mL and of left side was 3.59±1.09 mL. The mean total volume of thyroid gland was 7.48±2.22 mL. In males, it was found to be 8.32±2.30 mL and in females, it was 6.63±1.78 mL. The mean thickness of thyroid isthmus was 2.09±0.66 mm. The correlation of total thyroid volume with all the anthropometric parameters was significant, while correlation of isthmus thickness was statistically significant with LBM and NC only. Conclusion: Presentstudy provides a normative reference data for the physicians and surgeons to consider while dealing with everyday cases of thyroid hypoplasia or goiter in their Outpatient Department (OPD)/Inpatient Departments (IPDs).
Molecular Detection of Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase Resistance in Escherichia coli from Poultry Droppings in Karu, Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Tama S. C. , Ngwai Y. B. , Pennap G. R. I. , Nkene I. H. , Abimiku R. H.
Published: May 2021

Aims: This study investigates and reports the production of extended spectrum beta-lactamase in Escherichia coli isolates in poultry droppings sourced from selected poultry farms in Karu, Nigeria

Study Design:  Cross sectional study

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, between August 2019 and February 2020.

Methodology: Escherichia coli was isolated from the samples using standard cultural and microbiological methods. Antibiotic susceptibility testing and minimum inhibitory concentrations were evaluated as described by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). The detection of ESBL production in E. coli isolates was carried out using double disc synergy test.  In addition, molecular detection of ESBL genes was carried out using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) method.

Results: All (100%) samples collected had E. coli. Antibiotic resistances in the isolates in decreasing order were as follows: ampicillin (96.7%), streptomycin (94.4%), sulphamethoxazole /trimethoprim (87.8%), amoxicillin/ clavulanic acid (61.1%), gentamicin (52.2%), ciprofloxacin (40.0%), ceftazidime (35.6%), cefotaxime (31.1%), imipenems (22.2%), cefoxitin (13.3%). The commonest antibiotic resistant phenotype was AMP-SXT-S-CTX-CN (8.8%). Multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) was observed in 92.2% (83/90) of the isolates with the common MAR indices being 0.5 (26.5%), 0.6 (19.2%), 0.4 (13.2%) and 0.9 (10.8%). Fifty nine of the eighty beta-lactam resistant isolates (73.7%) were confirmed ESBL producers. 55 of the 59 ESBL positive isolates (93.2%) carried bla genes as follows:   blaSHV (50/55, 90.9%), blaTEM (31/55, 56.3%) and blaCTX-M (46/55, 83.6%). Thirty six (65.5%) of the 55 isolates carried two bla genes (blaSHV and blaTEM, blaTEM and blaCTX-M, and blaCTX-M and blaSHV).

Conclusion: The E. coli isolates showed lower resistances to cefoxitin, imipenem, cefotaxime, ceftazidime, and ciprofloxacin and most isolates were MAR, with resistance to 5 antibiotics being the most predominant. In addition, blaSHV gene was the most common ESBL gene detected in the confirmed ESBL-producing E. coli isolates.
Mid-afternoon Outdoor Biometeorological Conditions in a Hot-humid Climate of Minna in Nigeria, West Africa during the Year 2012
Authors: Njoku Christian A. , Orisakwe Ikenna , Ojeh Vincent N.
Published: May 2021

The human biometeorological conditions at mid-afternoon during 12 months of 2012 in the city of Minna North-Central Nigeria have been evaluated based on energy budget indices (UTCI and PET) using climate parameters -air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and solar radiation) observed at 15:00LST as input into the Rayman model. Air temperature demonstrated strongest significant correlation coefficient (r) with UTCI and PET (r= 0.91, r= 0.93) (P<0.0001) while windspeed show weakest association with them(r=-0.10, r=-0.20) (P<0.03, P<0.001) respectively. March and August were characterized by peak and slightest monthly thermal stress conditions according to both indices. The correlation coefficient between both indices was significantly (P<0.0001) very strong (r=0.98) and more noticeable for equivalent temperatures in strong stress thresholds (UTCI>=32°C, PET>=35°C), which shows that both indices can be used indifferently in warm climates. However, during May to October, UTCI better expressed warm conditions than PET mainly due to the difference in the definition of reference environment for both indices; this study is relevant to the urban sightseeing industry as tourists would most likely opt for a period of lesser thermal discomfort.
Phytochemical Screening and High-performance Thin-layer Chromatography Quantification of Vitex trifolia Leaves Hydro-alcoholic Extract: Potential Anti-inflammatory Properties
Authors: Ghafari Ahmad Tamim , Jahidin Aisyah Hasyila , Zakaria Yuslina , Hasan Mizaton Hazizul
Published: May 2021

Aims: The present study aims to evaluate the phytochemical composition of Vitex trifolia (V. trifolia) leaves hydro-alcoholic extract and to report for the first time, its phenolic content using a validated high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method.

Study Design:  Qualitative phytochemical analysis and HTLC densitometric quantitative analysis.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia, from March 2020 to December 2020.

Methodology:  The preliminary phytochemical screening was carried out qualitatively. The HPTLC analysis was performed on glass-backed 60 F254 silica gel plates using a two steps gradient elution method of the mobile phase. In the first step, methanol was used to develop the plates until 40 mm of developing distance, while in the second step, plates were developed with n-hexane:ethyl acetate:acetic acid (20:9:1, v/v/v) until 80 mm of developing distance. Detection and quantification were performed by densitometric analysis at 254 nm. The method was validated as per the International Council for Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) guideline in terms of linearity, precision, accuracy, the limit of detection (LOD), and the limit of quantification (LOQ).

Results: The preliminary phytochemical screening of V. trifolia leaves hydro-alcoholic extract showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, phytosterols, and terpenoids. The developed HPTLC method was proved to be linear, precise, and accurate. The LOD and LOQ of the method were determined to be 2.01 µg/band and 6.08 µg/band, respectively. The total phenolic content of the extract was calculated from the standard gallic acid calibration plot and found to be 136.94 ± 4.02 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g of dried extract.

Conclusion:  This preliminary study revealed that V. trifolia has a considerable amount of phenolic compounds, which can potentially contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. Further pharmacological investigations are being carried out to support the folkloric claims.
Counseling Practices of Pharmacists at Medical Stores/Pharmacies in Karachi Pakistan
Authors: Syed Nayel , Baig Mirza Tasawer , Arsalan Adeel , Syed Aiman , Khan Abid , Shahid Uzma , Basit Uzma , Ali Bushra Imtiaz , Khan Shahzada Azam
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Dispensing medicines means delivering complete knowledge about the medicine being dispensed to that patient. Patient’s counseling regarding their medications play a very important role to achieve the high efficacy and proper constancy on therapy. The aim of the study was to evaluate the counseling practices of pharmacist from customers’ perspective.

Methodology: This was a descriptive cross sectional study, conducted among who were selected at random at pharmacies/ medical stores, while purchasing medications for them and/or for their loved ones. The study finally included 365 patients or attendants of the patients. The data obtained were analyzed using appropriate statistical analysis through SPPS version 25.

Results: 289 (81.37%) patients were counseled when they purchased antibiotics about the completion of the therapy and to take the doses timely. Only 4 patients were told about missing a dose.

Conclusion: There were different results of candidates majority of them were satisfied with on-going pharmacy service but some were not. Candidates also told about the lack of information given by the health care professional /pharmacist prior to dispensing.
Workplace violence in nursing: A concept analysis
Authors: Al-Qadi Mahmoud Mustafa
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To clarify the concept of workplace violence in nursing and propose an operational definition of the concept.

Methods

The review method used was Walker and Avant’s eight-step method.

Results

Identification of the key attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of the concept resulted in an operational definition of the concept. The proposed operational definition identifies workplace violence experienced by nurses as any act or threat of verbal or physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the worksite with the intention of abusing or injuring the target.

Conclusions

Developing insights into the concept will assist in the design of new research scales that can effectively measure the underlying issues, provide a framework that facilitates nursing interventions, and improve the validity of future studies.
Long working hours and burnout in health care workers: Non-linear dose-response relationship and the effect mediated by sleeping hours—A cross-sectional study
Authors: Lin Ro-Ting , Lin Yu-Ting , Hsia Ying-Fang , Kuo Chin-Chi
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Burnout among health care workers is highly prevalent and has profound impact on quality of care. Hospital on-duty schedules lead to long working hours and short sleeping hours; both are common factors associated with burnout. We examined the dose-response relationship and the potential mediating role of sleeping hours on the association between working hours and burnout among health care workers.

Methods

We collected data on the burnout status, using the Mandarin version of the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (subscales measure work-related and personal burnouts), working hours, sleeping hours, and relevant measures for 2081 health care personnel who underwent a routine health examination in a medical center in Taiwan during 2016-2017. Four subgroups were compared: physicians (n = 369), nurses (n = 973), technicians (n = 391), and administrators (n = 348).

Results

Average weekly working hours are associated with burnout scores in a non-linear dose-response manner. Compared with a work week of 40 hours, the odds ratio of work-related burnout doubled when hours exceeded 60, tripled when hours exceeded 74, and quadrupled when hours exceeded 84. Physicians’ burnout is less susceptible to incremental increases in working hours, compared to the situations in other health care workers. The proportions eliminated by reducing sleeping hours were 25%-73% for physicians and 7%-29% for nurses respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that working hours are associated with burnout, and the association was partially mediated by sleeping hours.
Plasma lipid metabolites associate with diabetic polyneuropathy in a cohort with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Rumora Amy E. , Guo Kai , Alakwaa Fadhl M. , Andersen Signe T. , Reynolds Evan L. , Jørgensen Marit E. , Witte Daniel R. , Tankisi Hatice , Charles Morten , Savelieff Masha G. , Callaghan Brian C. , Jensen Troels S. , Feldman Eva L.
Published: May 2021

Objective

The global rise in type 2 diabetes is associated with a concomitant increase in diabetic complications. Diabetic polyneuropathy is the most frequent type 2 diabetes complication and is associated with poor outcomes. The metabolic syndrome has emerged as a major risk factor for diabetic polyneuropathy; however, the metabolites associated with the metabolic syndrome that correlate with diabetic polyneuropathy are unknown.

Methods

We conducted a global metabolomics analysis on plasma samples from a subcohort of participants from the Danish arm of Anglo‐Danish‐Dutch study of Intensive Treatment of Diabetes in Primary Care (ADDITION‐Denmark) with and without diabetic polyneuropathy versus lean control participants.

Results

Compared to lean controls, type 2 diabetes participants had significantly higher HbA1c (p = 0.0028), BMI (p = 0.0004), and waist circumference (p = 0.0001), but lower total cholesterol (p = 0.0001). Out of 991 total metabolites, we identified 15 plasma metabolites that differed in type 2 diabetes participants by diabetic polyneuropathy status, including metabolites belonging to energy, lipid, and xenobiotic pathways, among others. Additionally, these metabolites correlated with alterations in plasma lipid metabolites in type 2 diabetes participants based on neuropathy status. Further evaluating all plasma lipid metabolites identified a shift in abundance, chain length, and saturation of free fatty acids in type 2 diabetes participants. Importantly, the presence of diabetic polyneuropathy impacted the abundance of plasma complex lipids, including acylcarnitines and sphingolipids.

Interpretation

Our explorative study suggests that diabetic polyneuropathy in type 2 diabetes is associated with novel alterations in plasma metabolites related to lipid metabolism.
Tuning Flexibility–Rigidity Conversion of Liquid Metal/Polyurethane Composites by Phase Transition for Potential Shape Memory Application
Authors: Wu Yunhui , Fang Zeyang , Wu Wenjian , Li Kunquan , Lin Maohua , Dang Zhimin
Published: May 2021

Composites with the capability of rigid variation through environmental stimulus have attracted great attention, attributing to their huge potential for shape memory electronics. To date, the rigid variation of composites stimulated by the body temperature is still a great challenge. Herein, the liquid metal‐coated polyurethanes (PUs) that have flexibility–rigidity transition properties due to the presence of a gallium coating that can undergo phase transition from solid to liquid in response to body temperature heating are described. The liquid metal particles are bonded onto the PU skeleton treated by microwave plasma elastic, constructing liquid metal/PU composites. The strong oxidizing ability of gallium forms a thin Ga2O3 oxide film constructing a shell structure of the stable particle. Such novel strategy consists of the elastomeric skeleton and the gallium phase switching coating, making the fabricated composites capable of mechanical tunability. The modulus of composites can turn from 35 to 2008.9 kPa and return to 35 kPa under the body temperature, which allows for a convenient and simple method to produce shape memory effects. This approach provides a straightforward method to stimulate shape memory properties through the body temperature. Thus, they may be suitable for new applications in soft electronics.
Engineering Next Generation Cyclized Peptide Ligands for Light‐Controlled Capture and Release of Therapeutic Proteins
Authors: Prodromou Raphael , Day Kevin N. , Saberi‐Bosari Sahand , Schneible John D. , Mabe Matthew D. , San Miguel Adriana , Daniele Michael A. , Pozdin Vladimir , Menegatti Stefano
Published: May 2021

Photo‐affinity adsorbents (i.e., translucent matrices functionalized with ligands featuring light‐controlled biorecognition) represent a futuristic technology for purifying labile biologics. In this study, a framework for prototyping photo‐affinity adsorbents comprising azobenzene‐cyclized peptides (ACPs) conjugated to translucent porous beads (ChemMatrix) is presented. This approach combines computational and experimental tools for designing ACPs and investigating their light‐controlled isomerization kinetics and protein biorecognition. First, a modular design for tailoring ACP's conformation, facilitating sequencing, and streamlining the in silico modeling of cis/trans isomers and their differential protein binding is introduced. Then, a spectroscopic system for measuring the photo‐isomerization kinetics of ACPs on ChemMatrix beads is reported; using this device, it is demonstrated that the isomerization at different light intensities is correlated to the cyclization geometry, specifically the energy difference of trans versus cis isomers as calculated in silico. Also, a microfluidic device for sorting ACP‐ChemMatrix beads to select and validate photo‐affinity ligands using Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 (VCAM‐1) as target protein and cycloAZOB[GVHAKQHRN‐K*]‐G‐ChemMatrix as model photo‐affinity adsorbent is presented. The proposed ACPs exhibit rapid and defined light‐controlled isomerization and biorecognition. Controlling the adsorption and release of VCAM‐1 using light demonstrates the potential of photo‐affinity adsorbents for targets whose biochemical liability poses challenges to its purification.
Rechargeable Potassium–Selenium Batteries
Authors: Huang Xiang Long , Guo Zaiping , Dou Shi Xue , Wang Zhiming M.
Published: May 2021

Rechargeable potassium–selenium (K–Se) batteries, as an emerging electrochemical energy storage system, has recently captured intensive attention due to the desirable natural abundance and low redox potential of elemental potassium as well as the relatively high electronic conductivity and impressive theoretical volumetric capacity of elemental selenium. Although great progress on cathode materials design and electrochemical performance improvement has been made, K–Se batteries are still confronted with a series of key challenges, including low reactive activity, shuttle effect, volume expansion, potassium dendrite growth, and high chemical activity of potassium metal. The recent advances in rechargeable K–Se batteries are comprehensively summarized with an emphasis on discussing the electrochemical mechanisms and central challenges, presenting the synthesis, properties, and electrochemical performance of selenium‐based cathode materials, and extending potential tactics for tackling the key issues and developmental directions for future research.
Unravelling Magnetic Nanochain Formation in Dispersion for In Vivo Applications
Authors: Nandakumaran Nileena , Barnsley Lester , Feoktystov Artem , Ivanov Sergei A. , Huber Dale L. , Fruhner Lisa S. , Leffler Vanessa , Ehlert Sascha , Kentzinger Emmanuel , Qdemat Asma , Bhatnagar‐Schöffmann Tanvi , Rücker Ulrich , Wharmby Michael T. , Cervellino Antonio , Dunin‐Borkowski Rafal E. , Brückel Thomas , Feygenson Mikhail
Published: May 2021

Self‐assembly of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) into 1D chains is appealing, because of their biocompatibility and higher mobility compared to 2D/3D assemblies while traversing the circulatory passages and blood vessels for in vivo biomedical applications. In this work, parameters such as size, concentration, composition, and magnetic field, responsible for chain formation of IONPs in a dispersion as opposed to spatially confining substrates, are examined. In particular, the monodisperse 27 nm IONPs synthesized by an extended LaMer mechanism are shown to form chains at 4 mT, which are lengthened with applied field reaching 270 nm at 2.2 T. The chain lengths are completely reversible in field. Using a combination of scattering methods and reverse Monte Carlo simulations the formation of chains is directly visualized. The visualization of real‐space IONPs assemblies formed in dispersions presents a novel tool for biomedical researchers. This allows for rapid exploration of the behavior of IONPs in solution in a broad parameter space and unambiguous extraction of ​the parameters of the equilibrium structures. Additionally, it can be extended to study novel assemblies formed by more complex geometries of IONPs.
Ultrathin‐Walled 3D Inorganic Nanostructured Networks Templated from Cross‐Linked Cellulose Nanocrystal Aerogels
Authors: Hiltunen Arto , Or Tyler , Lahtonen Kimmo , Ali‐Löytty Harri , Tkachenko Nikolai , Valden Mika , Sarlin Essi , Cranston Emily D. , Moran‐Mirabal Jose M. , Vapaavuori Jaana
Published: May 2021

A key challenge in the development of materials for applications in the fields of opto‐ and nanoelectronics, catalysis, separation, and energy conversion is the ability to fabricate 3D inorganic semiconductive nanostructures in a precisely‐controlled and cost‐effective manner. This work describes the fabrication of 3D nanostructured TiO2 monoliths by coating ultraporous cross‐linked cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) aerogel templates with TiO2 layers of controlled thickness via atomic layer deposition (ALD). Following calcination, the resulting hollow inorganic ultraporous 3D networks form the thinnest self‐supporting semiconductive structure (7 nm) fabricated directly on a conductive substrate. The CNC‐templated ALD–TiO2 electrodes are applied toward photoelectrochemical water splitting. The results show that a TiO2 coating as thin as 15 nm produces a maximum water splitting efficiency, resulting in materials savings and reduced fabrication time.
Control of Stepwise Hg2+ Reduction on Gold to Selectively Tune its Peroxidase and Catalase‐Like Activities and the Mechanism
Authors: Chen Yao , Shen Xiaomei , Carmona Unai , Yang Fan , Gao Xingfa , Knez Mato , Zhang Lianbing , Qin Yong
Published: May 2021

The flexible regulation of enzyme‐like activities of nanozyme is of great importance in biomedical applications. However, the current modulation strategies usually lack activity specificity to reveal precise tuning of the desired activity. In this work, it is demonstrated for the first time that the Hg2+ on surfaces of Au film can be reduced in a chemical path of Hg(II) → Hg(I) → Hg(0) via anti‐Galvanic reaction. Furthermore, it is amazing that the generated Hg0 via Hg(NO3)2 treatment contributes to greatly boosted peroxidase and catalase activities of Au films due to the formation of Au@Hg amalgam, while the main Hg+ species on Au formed by HgCl2 modification results in only catalase‐like activity acceleration. Based on this, the peroxidase‐ and catalase‐like activities of gold can be selectively modulated by controlling the stepwise reduction of Hg2+. Further density functionality theory (DFT) calculations reveal that it is the significantly lowered activation energy by Au@Hg amalgam that accounts for the acceleration of both peroxidase and catalase reaction. These results demonstrate a novel avenue to specifically modulate the enzyme‐mimicking activities of Au, which not only facilitates the design of nanozymes with specific activity, but also broadens their biological usage.
Layer‐by‐Layer 2D Ultrathin Conductive Cu3(HHTP)2 Film for High‐Performance Flexible Transparent Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhao Weiwei , Chen Tiantian , Wang Weikang , Bi Shuaihang , Jiang Mengyue , Zhang Kenneth Yin , Liu Shujuan , Huang Wei , Zhao Qiang
Published: May 2021

2D conductive metal–organic frameworks (2D c‐MOFs) naturally possess high active sites, large specific surface areas, and fast ion transport for energy‐storage devices. However, the intelligent exploration of 2D c‐MOFs for the emerging flexible transparent supercapacitors (FTSCs) with excellent photoelectric property and electrochemical activity is rarely implemented. Herein, 2D conductive ultrathin Cu3(HHTP)2 (HHTP = 2,3,6,7,10,11‐hexahydroxytriphenylene) film is synthesized on the indium tin oxide/polyethylene terephthalate (ITO/PET) substrate for flexible transparent conductive electrodes (FTCEs) through the layer‐by‐layer assembly method. The interconnected conductive frameworks possess the cooperative superiority of low internal resistance, fast electrolyte ion diffusion, and quick electron transfer. Cu3(HHTP)2‐15/ITO/PET FTCEs show high photoelectric property of T550 nm = 82.2% and Rs = 49.1 Ω sq−1, and high areal capacitance (CA) of 1700 µF cm−2. The corresponding symmetrical FTSCs (T550 nm = 62.1%) exhibit excellent CA of 939.2 µF cm−2 at the current density of 7 µA cm−2, superior rate capability (63.9% at 150 µA cm−2), long‐term cycling stability (85% after 3000 cycles), and mechanical flexibility under different bending angles. This work provides key insights into the design and synthesis of 2D c‐MOF films for flexible transparent energy‐storage devices.
High‐Linearity, Response‐Range Adjustable Force Sensors Based on a Yarn/Film/Spacer Triboelectric Device Design
Authors: Cao Yuying , Shao Hao , Wang Hongxia , Yang Xiao , Gao Qi , Cheng Tinghai , Fang Jian , Lin Tong
Published: May 2021

In this study, a novel triboelectric device is developed that consists of a silicone‐coated conductive yarn and a PET film as active substances, and an elastic spacer as a force controller. The silicone‐coated yarn is prepared by applying a thermally curable silicone to conductive yarns using a simple but continuous method. The device made of 20 cm long yarn can generate peak voltage as high as 225 V and current outputs of 2.4 µA. The elastic spacer functions to maintain the yarn and PET film in a separate state when no force is loaded and to adjust the response threshold and detection range by changing the spacer area. In comparison to the triboelectric force‐sensors reported previously, this yarn/film device shows a much larger detection range (24–380 N) and higher flexibility in tuning the detection range. The output voltage‐input force curves of the devices have an R2 value above 0.91, indicating the good linearity between the input force and voltage output. Moreover, a theoretical model is developed to elucidate the influence of the spacer area on the detection range and sensitivity. Such a yarn/film/spacer sensor design may be useful for the development of low‐cost force sensors for various applications.