bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF DUAL-LAYERED OSMOTIC PUMP CONTROLLED-RELEASE TABLETS OF CEFIXIME
Authors: Tyagi Rahul , Sharma Pankaj Kumar , Gupta Dilip Kumar
Published: July 2021

Background: This study aims to formulate, optimize and evaluate the osmotic tablet of cefixime. It improves the site specification and provides the controlled release of drug once – a – day through this drug delivery system. Cefixime assumes a significant part in dissolvability restricts other than dissolvable sort. It might increase the bioavailability of drugs by the preparation of the osmotic tablet. Method: The forming core tablet does a formulation of Controlled Porosity Osmotic Tablets (CP1 – CP9) using an ingredient like sodium chloride, PVP K30, Microcrystalline cellulose various ratios. The coating of the core tablet is done by Cellulose Acetate, PEG 400, with statistical ratios. Result: On depending upon the various evaluation parameters like hardness, diameter, friability, weight variation, content uniformity, In vitro release, CP9 formulation gave better consequence. The percentage of drug release is >95%. The optimized CP9 batch showed a maximum correlation of 0.992 with a zero-order drug release kinetic model. Conclusion: A controlled release formulation of cefixime based on osmotic technology, were developed. The release from the developed formulation was independent of pH and agitational intensity of the release media; the formulation fitted well into zero-order kinetics, indicating the release to be drug load independent. Drug release was directly proportional to the initial pore level but inversely related to the membrane weight. The release was inversely associated with the release media's osmotic pressure, confirming osmotic pumping as the central mechanism of release.
RANDOMIZED CONTROL TRIAL ON ERANDAMULA GHANAVATI WITH NASYA IN MANYAGRAHA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS
Authors: Solanke Sunil , Kabra Prakash
Published: July 2021

Background: Cervical spondylosis is defined as degenerative changes occurring in the discs and cervical spine. Stating these changes is to be almost universal in the elderly. Cervical Spondylosis correlated with Manyagraha in Ayurvedic perspective. Aim: Aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of Erandamula Ghanavati and Anu Taila Nasya in Manyagraha. Methods: The Group in which Erandamula Ghanavati and Anutaila Nasya were given to patients was termed as Trial Group. The Group in which Panchatikta Ghrita Guggulu and Anutaila Nasya were given to patients was termed as Control Group. During this study 104 patients out of 150 were equally divided into Trial and Control Group by lottery method and comparative study was done. Statistical analysis was done using appropriate tests. Results: Erandamula Ghanavati along with Anu Taila Nasya has reduces symptoms of Manyagraha. Total effect of therapy is more in Trial group as compared to the Control Group. Discussion: As stated by Charak Erandamula is best Vatahara drug. Its Rasa, Virya and Vipak are helpful to alleviate Vata. Erandamula having Snigdha, Madhuraproperties is going to be beneficial in Dhatukshayajanya Vatavyadhi. Conclusion: Erandamula Ghanavati along with Anu Taila Nasya has beneficial for patients of Manyagraha.
Morphometric Analysis of Khag Micro-Watershed in North-West Himalayas of Kashmir Using GIS and Remote Sensing Techniques
Authors: Yadav Rajnish , Bhat Mohammad Iqbal , Rasool Faisul-Ur- , Bangroo Shabir Ahmed , Ahmad Roheela , George Twinkle Rachel , Bharteey Prem Kumar
Published: July 2021

Morphometric analysis is of vital importance in any hydrological research and is inevitable in development and management of watershed. Using the watershed as the main unit of morphometric characterization is the most logical choice, as well as geomorphological and hydrological processes take place within the drainage basin. A critical assessment and evaluation of morphometric parameters of Khag micro-watershed was accomplished through measurement of relief, linear and aerial aspects using Geographical Information System (GIS). The watershed boundaries, aspect, slope, digital elevation model (DEM), profile graph of topography, drainage order and drainage density mapswere generated for detailed study of micro-watershed using Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) data. The study area was designated as fourth order basin with the drainage area of 34.32 km2 and shows dendritic drainage pattern. The total length, drainage density and mean bifurcation ratio (Rb) were found to be 38.84 km, 1.13km/km2 and 1.73, respectively. The Khag micro-watershed showed the greater Rb value, which directs a strong structural control in the runoff pattern. A decrease in the stream frequency of flow was also observed with an increase in the order of flow. The shape parameters such as circulatory ratio, elongation ratio, length of over land flow, form factor and drainage texture of Khag micro-watershed were 0.42, 0.56, 0.43 km, 0.24 and 1.66, respectively. The Khag micro-watershed is elongated in shape and dendritic in drainage pattern. This can be attributed to the fact that the lithology and structural controls are more or less uniform. Relative relief and ruggedness number were 0.065 and 2.39 and are likely to subject the micro watershed to maximum soil erosion that demands, instantaneous soil conservation measure to be taken by watershed managers for its stability and sustainability. These studies area advantageous for the planning of rainwater harvesting and the management of the catchment area.
Agro-Morpho-Pedological Evaluation of Soils under Hevea in Marginal Zones: The Case of the Departments of Man and Toumodi
Authors: Antoine Koffi , Lopez Essehi Jean , Dogniméton Soro , Métangbo Diomandé , Lewis Kouakou Boukhamy Wilson , Djézou Konan , Samuel Obouayeba
Published: July 2021

Among the ecological conditions of the environment allowing profitable rubber cultivation, rainfall and the physico-chemical characteristics of the soil are the most important. With this in mind, a study on the adaptability of rubber trees to new agro-morphopedological zones was conducted in the departments of Man and Toumodi. The methodology used to achieve this objective is the realization of pedological pits coupled with physico-chemical laboratory analyses. The open soil profiles reveal that the soils belong mainly to the Ferralsols class with distinctive characteristics, except for those of Kimoukro which belong to the Cambisols class. The Toumodi soils, with a sandy-clay texture (15-35% clay), have a high content of coarse sand (over 40%) and good internal drainage in the surface horizons. They are less dense (≤ 1 g/cm3), with a high coarse element load (40%). These soils are chemically rich with a slightly acidic pH. For the Man soils, the sandy-clay texture, with more than 50% clay, from surface to depth, was the most representative fraction. The coarse element load (≥ 50%) and bulk density (≥ 1.5 g/cm3) were more important. These strongly acidic soils are rich in nitrogen and carbon. Exchangeable bases and CEC are important, mainly, in the upper horizons. In addition, the soil profiles observed in these two departments revealed two major pedogenetic processes: reworking and rejuvenation. At the agronomic level, vegetative growth and rubber production of rubber trees were better in Man than in Toumodi. The physico-chemical characteristics of the soils indicate that the departments of Man and Toumodi are favorable for rubber cultivation, although the soils in Man department are more suitable for cultivation.
The Perception of Mothers on Malaria, Toxoplasmosis and their Pathological Consequences in the Mother and Baby in Biyem-Assi Yaounde
Authors: Ndamukong-Nyanga Judith Lum , Lucile Todjom Chysine , Linda Kitio Falone , Dolly-Misper Signi, Demanou Teubow
Published: July 2021

Malaria is a parasitic disease that causes morbidity and mortality in many areas of the world especially in Sub-Saharan Africa and particularly in Cameroon. It is characterised by febrile manifestation, liver inflammation and anaemia. Toxoplasmosis is another parasitic infection caused by an obligate intracellular parasite (Toxoplasma gondii) and is found in many countries of the world. It causes spontaneous abortion in pregnant women and hydrocephally in new- born babies. Malaria and Toxoplasmosis co-infections can cause serious pathological consequences on both mother and fœtus.  The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of malaria, toxoplasmosis, and malaria and toxoplasmosis coinfection in pregnant women during ante natal consultations at Biyem - Assi hospital and to assess their knowledge of the pathological consequences of malaria, toxoplasmosis, and coinfection on the mother and baby. It was a cross-sectional study. Blood samples were collected by finger-prinking and structured questionnaires were administered to 226 pregnant women. The results showed that 39.38 %, 23 % and 8.4 % of women tested positive for malaria, toxoplasmosis and coinfection respectively. The most commonly cited consequence of theses infections was spontaneous abortion. The results obtained showed a significant association between the level of education and the level of knowledge of women about toxoplasmosis and coinfection of toxoplasmosis and malaria (p < 0.05). The level of knowledge of the pregnant woman is not satisfactory as regards toxoplasmosis and co-infection but quite good as regards malaria. The studies have revealed the need for continouos education on toxoplasmosis for pregnant women and girls of childbearing age, and more comprehensive preventive measures. The implementation of public health and education policies that take into account economic, social, environmental and cultural differences are of prime importance.
Lenvatinib in Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma (ATC) in a Tertiary Caner Hospital- a Single Institute Experience
Authors: Sharma Rakesh , Dattatreya P. S. , Suresh A. V. S. , Vamsy Ch Mohana
Published: July 2021

Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma (ATC) is an aggressive rare form of caner with limited treatment options and short survival. In view of initial case reports have shown some good clinical response with lenvatinib, we used the same in our institute. We are presenting a retrospective series of 4 cases between 2018-2021. It showed very promising results with 75% showing clinically meaningful regression of tumor. Hypertension is the most common side effect, which should be aggressively managed. We feel that, lenvatinib remains a safe and effective option to explore in patients with refractory anaplastic thyroid carcinoma.
Do Diaspora Remittances Guarantee Food Security in Nigeria?
Authors: Enakhe Onime, Bright , Ijeoma E. Kalu,
Published: July 2021

The burgeoning remittances into Nigeria and their effect on the economy have received renewed attention in recent times. Literature has suggested the existence of a relationship between remittances and food security. The extent to which this is true for Nigeria is uncertain. Using Vector Error Correction Model (VECM), this study examined the link between remittances and food security using secondary data for the period 1980 to 2018. Findings revealed a robust long and short-run relationship between remittances and food security. In the short-run, a positive and significant relationship was found between remittances and food security in the current period such that a 1 per cent increase in remittances was associated with a 5.08 per cent improvement in food security. In the long-run, a cointegrated relationship was observed as the error correction term depicting this relationship was well-behaved, properly signed and significant indicating that any previous period deviation in long-run equilibrium is corrected in the current period at an adjustment speed of 28.8 per cent. In addition, the Granger test suggests a unidirectional causality running from remittances to food security such that past values of remittances determined food security during the period investigated. Consequent to the findings, the study recommended with a caveat, the design and proper implementation of a diaspora and remittances policy to cater for the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora to improve remittance receipts and by implication, food security. However, since remittances alone cannot guarantee food security in Nigeria, this study further recommends a holistic and multidimensional approach to address the food security challenge and close the food deficit gap.
Awareness about Nanotechnology among Upcoming Clinicians in Vidarbha, Maharashtra
Authors: Maldhure Swati , Sonwani Vaibhav , Ambad Ranjeet , Chandi Dhruba Hari
Published: July 2021

The making of new things at an incredibly small “nano” scale (100,000 times smaller than the human hair) is called nanotechnology and it is one of the most exciting and fast-moving technology in today’s world. Scientists and engineers have been working hard to make the maximum utilization of this knowledge towards applications like cure for certain diseases, to create certain renewable sources of energy and to bring human race safety into next millennium, thus nanomedicine being one of the most important evolution of nanotechnology.

In this research, we have done a cross sectional observation, knowledge, perception and attitude study among 56 residents of various clinical departments of Datta Meghe Medical College. According to our survey, it was evident that only 48.21% of the residents were aware of the science of nanotechnology. Television was the source for most of them to know about it. Approximately 35.71% knew the size of nanoparticles which is really low. Of all the residence who knew about nanotechnology, most of the (42.86%) them knew about its application in healthcare whereas comparatively less (28.57%) were aware of its applications in areas besides healthcare. As expected very few (14.29%) had practically used this advanced science in health care. And hardly any knew about limitations or long-term side effects of nanotechnology in health care but most of them supported it.

With our limited analysis and discussion, we could conclude that awareness and knowledge about nanotechnology among residents who are our upcoming clinicians, was deficient in more than half of them and inadequate among those who had. Universities need to add this subject in their curriculums and have an interdisplinary approach towards this recent advance so that all the medical students and upcoming clinicians have awareness and adequate knowledge regarding nanotechnology & nanomedicine which is going to be the future of medicine having significant impact on our health, comfort and lifestyle.
Study of Glutathione S Transferases and Malondialdehyde Levels in Male Smokers from Vidharbha Region, India
Authors: Ambad Ranjit S. , Nagtilak Suryakant , Kondalkar Ankita , Anjankar Ashish
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Free radicals are compounds having two unpaired electrons. Free radicals oxidize macromolecule in the body, including proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids.

The body uses antioxidants to fight free radicals. Antioxidants may come from the diet or be generated internally (endogenous). Endogenous antioxidants include superoxide dismutase, glutathione (GSH), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase.

Aim: To study of glutathione s transferases and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in male smokers from Vidharbha region attending Datta Meghe Medical College

Materials and Methods: A minimum sample size of 80 was used with 40 smoking males and 40 non-smoking males. This was a cross-sectional analytical observational analysis conducted in the medical study.

Result: The mean GSH concentrations of the smoking and non-smoking research participants were 1.69 ± 0.97 mol/L and 2.20 ± 1.40 mol/L, respectively, when plasma GSH concentrations were measured. Smokers had lower plasma GSH concentrations than non-smokers, but the disparity was not statistically significant (p=0.1885) suggests that smoking has no discernible effect on GSH levels.

Conclusion: Smoking tends to reduce plasma GSH while rising plasma MDA levels in men. Owing to a loss of antioxidant potential and a higher oxidative load, smokers are more susceptible to oxidant stress. Young smokers, in particular, should quit smoking as soon as possible before developing health complications in order to reap the full benefits of quitting.
Improving Mechanical Properties of GH4169 Alloys by Reversing the Deformation and Aging Sequence
Authors: Ran Qian , Xiang Song , Tan Yuanbiao
Published: July 2021

Herein, the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of GH4169 alloys obtained by solution treatment–deformation–two‐stage aging (SDA) and solution treatment–two‐stage aging–deformation (SAD) are investigated. The results show that the density of average geometrically necessary dislocations and the size of γ" precipitates in the SAD sample are larger than that in the SDA sample. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the SAD sample is 1651 ± 24 MPa, which is 171 MPa higher than that of the SDA sample, whereas the fracture elongation of the SAD sample decreases only 3.4%. The significant increment of the UTS in the SAD samples is attributed to the contributions of the dislocation strengthening and precipitation strengthening. SAD processing could be considered as a more effective approach to enhance the mechanical properties of GH4169 alloys.
The Advantage of Nanowire Configuration in Band Structure Determination
Authors: Dimitrievska Mirjana , Hage Fredrik S. , Escobar Steinvall Simon , Litvinchuk Alexander P. , Stutz Elias Z. , Ramasse Quentin M. , Fontcuberta i Morral Anna
Published: July 2021

Earth‐abundant and environmentally friendly semiconductors offer a promising path toward low‐cost mass production of solar cells. A critical aspect in exploring new semiconducting materials and demonstrating their enhanced functionality consists in disentangling them from the artifacts of defects. Nanowires are diameter‐tailored filamentary structures that tend to be defect‐free and thus ideal model systems for a given material. Here, an additional advantage is demostrated, which is the determination of the band structure, by performing high energy and spatial resolution electron energy‐loss spectroscopy in aloof and inner beam geometry in a scanning transmission electron microscope. The experimental results are complemented by spectroscopic ellipsometry and are excellently correlated with first principles calculations. This study opens the path for characterizing the band structure of new compounds in a non‐destructive and prompt manner, strengthening the route of new materials discovery.
A Conformable, Gas‐Permeable, and Transparent Skin‐Like Micromesh Architecture for Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Li Ya‐Lei , Liu Yan‐Hua , Chen Lin‐Sen , Xu Jian‐Long
Published: July 2021

Monitoring the concentration of useful biomarkers via electronic skins (e‐skins) is highly important for the development of wearable health management systems. While some biosensor e‐skins with high flexibility, sensitivity, and stability have been developed, little attention has been paid to their long‐term comfortability and optical transparency. Here, a conformable, gas permeable, and transparent skin‐like Cu2O@Ni micromesh structural glucose monitoring patch is reported. With its self‐supporting micromesh structure, the skin‐like glucose monitoring patch exhibits excellent shape conformability, high gas permeability, and high optical transmittance. The skin‐like glucose biosensor achieves real‐time monitoring of glucose concentrations with high sensitivity (15 420 µA cm−2mM−1), low detection limit (50 nM), fast response time (＜2 s), high selectivity, and long‐term stability. These desirable performance properties arise from the synergistic effects of the self‐supporting micromesh configuration, high conductivity of the metallic Ni micromesh, and high electrocatalytic activities of the Cu2O toward glucose. This work presents a versatile and efficient strategy for constructing conformable, gas permeable, and transparent biosensor e‐skins with excellent practicability towards wearable electronics.
NiO‐Co3O4‐rGO as an Efficient Electrode Material for Supercapacitors and Direct Alcoholic Fuel Cells
Authors: Askari Mohammad Bagher , Salarizadeh Parisa , Beheshti‐Marnani Amirkhosro , Di Bartolomeo Antonio
Published: July 2021

Transition metal oxides can be performant electrode materials for supercapacitors and alcohol oxidation if their conductivity and capacity are improved. Herein, an advanced nanocomposite material made of NiO‐Co3O4 on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is synthesized by a one‐step hydrothermal method for supercapacitors and methanol/ethanol oxidation. It is demonstrated that the nanocomposite is a promising material for energy storage as NiO‐Co3O4‐rGO supercapacitor electrodes achieve a specific capacity of 149 mAh g−1 (894 F g−1) at a current density of 0.5 A g−1, the discharge time of 689 s, and excellent stability of 95% after 6000 cycles. Moreover, NiO‐Co3O4‐rGO shows a current density of 15 and 10 mA cm−2 in methanol and ethanol oxidation reactions, respectively, along with excellent stability.
Near‐Zero Thermal Expansion Ba1−xSrxZn2Si2O7‐Based Microwave Dielectric Ceramics for 3D Printed Dielectric Resonator Antenna with Integrative Lens
Authors: Zou Zheng‐Yu , Lou Yi‐Hui , Song Xiao‐Qiang , Jiang Hai , Du Kang , Yin Chang‐Zhi , Lu Wen‐Zhong , Wang Xiao‐Chuan , Wang Xiao‐Hong , Fu Ming , Lei Wen
Published: July 2021

High‐gain, low‐weight, wide bandwidth, and miniaturized lens antennas with stable properties against temperature are intensely required in extreme environments such as aerospace field. However, high‐performance microwave dielectric ceramics with near‐zero thermal expansion and frequency shift with temperature are very rare; moreover, the requirement of 3D printing processes also restricts their developments. Ba0.4Sr0.6Zn2Si2O7with negative coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), which originates from the stretched [ZnO4] tetrahedral chain to the twisted one alongb‐axis with temperature, and CaTiO3with positive temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf) can effectively adjust both CTE and τfof Zn1.8SiO3.8to near‐zero value in 0.95(0.9Zn1.8SiO3.8–0.1Ba0.4Sr0.6Zn2Si2O7)–0.05CaTiO3ceramic. Then, a Ku‐band Luneburg lens integrative antenna fabricated by stereolithography 3D printing technology exhibits an average gain of 8.06 dBi at 10.45–11.39 GHz and 10.3 dBi at 12.27–13.45 GHz, which has potential applications in temperature‐stable satellite communication.
An Efficient Hole Transporting Polymer for Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Wu Wenhai , Chen Zhao , Zhan Yunfeng , Liu Bochen , Song Weidong , Guo Yue , Yan Ji , Yang Xiaolong , Zhou Zhi , Wong Wai‐Yeung
Published: July 2021

Ideal hole transporting polymers used in quantum dot (QD) light‐emitting diodes (QLEDs) should possess the features such as high conductivities and stabilized highest occupied molecular orbitals (HOMOs). Herein, an efficient polymer (named CNPr‐TFB) is achieved by rationally adding a relatively weak electron‐withdrawing group (2‐cyanopropan‐2‐yl, CNPr) on a TFB like hole transporting polymer. CNPr‐TFB exhibits a superior hole conductivity and much more stabilized HOMO in comparison with TFB. Therefore, much more holes are delivered into the QD emissive layers and a balanced recombination of electron and hole in the QLEDs is achieved. The external quantum efficiencies of the red, green, blue, and white QLEDs made by CNPr‐TFB as the hole transporting layer (HTL) are 20.7%, 16.6%, 11.3%, and 15.0%, respectively, which are increased by 1.4–2.3 times in comparison with those of devices based on the commonly used TFB HTL. Meanwhile, the CNPr‐TFB‐based QLEDs also exhibit longer operation lifetimes than those of devices using the TFB HTL. These results confirm that CNPr‐TFB with the features of high conductivity and stabilized HOMO can be an excellent HTL material for the QLED applications
Electrostatic Distortion of Melt‐Electrowritten Patterns by 3D Objects: Quantification, Modeling, and Toolpath Correction
Authors: O'Connell Cathal D. , Bridges Olivia , Everett Cameron , Antill‐O'Brien Natasha , Onofrillo Carmine , Di Bella Claudia
Published: July 2021

Melt electrowriting (MEW) is an electrohydrodynamic process capable of producing organized patterns of micrometer‐scale polymer fibers. Integrating MEW with other additive manufacturing technologies, such as extrusion‐printing or bioprinting, offers tantalizing possibilities for multi‐scale biofabrication of anatomically shaped scaffolds. However, introducing 3D structures onto the conventionally flat collector plate significantly complicates the MEW process because these objects perturb the electrostatic field. Here, the systematic investigation of how simple 3D objects (hemispheres) distort MEW patterns printed in their vicinity is reported. The authors assess the influence of a series of parameters on fiber deflection including: distance from the hemisphere, hemisphere size and material composition, height of the nozzle, translation speed, applied voltage, and applied pressure. In light of these data, a model which captures the basic physics behind the deflection phenomenon is derived. An optimization algorithm to calculate tool‐paths which pre‐emptively account for these deviations is also introduced. Finally, the authors validate how G‐code produced by this algorithm effectively corrects the distortion effect, restoring the ability to create well‐defined MEW patterns in the vicinity of 3D objects. This study suggests a foundation for understanding the complexities of MEW on non‐planar collectors, and towards multitechnology biofabrication.
Visible Light‐Mediated Synthesis of Se−S Bond‐Containing Peptides
Authors: Lapcinska Sindija , Dimitrijevs Pavels , Arsenyan Pavel
Published: July 2021

A visible light‐initiated method has been developed for preparation of Se−S bond‐containing peptides. The method is based on generation of sulfur‐centered radical employing organic dye. The protocol is tolerant to unprotected peptides with “sensitive” amino acids. The stability of Se−S bond is evaluated in buffers at different pH (3.0–10.0) and also in the presence of oxidants and reducing agents. Additionally, the ability of Se−S bond to serve as an oxidation sensitive linker in biocompatible materials has been confirmed.

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High Shunt Resistance SnO2‐PbO Electron Transport Layer for Perovskite Solar Cells Used in Low Lighting Applications
Authors: Bi Zhuoneng , Zhang Shaohong , Thandapani Marimuthu , Zhu Yanqing , Zheng Yupeng , Liem Nguyen Quang , Xiao Xiudi , Xu Gang , Guerrero Antonio , Xu Xueqing
Published: July 2021

Hybrid perovskites are promising materials for new sustainable photovoltaic applications to operate under low lighting conditions, such as the reuse of residual photons that are wasted during indoor lighting. The requirements for a perovskite solar cell (PSC) to offer maximum power conversion efficiency (PCE) under low illumination conditions are not totally clear in the literature. In this work, the PCE of the commonly used SnO2 electron transport layer (ETL) is improved by a facile method, doping the precursor nanoparticles with small concentrations of a Pb source. Under low illumination conditions (i.e., 0.1 mW cm−2) the PCE is enhanced from 18.8% to 34.2%. From a complete analysis of the ETLs and devices using several structural and electrical techniques it is observed that the parameter that improves the most is the shunt resistance of the device which avoids the parallel leakage of the photogenerated current. The present work clearly shows that the shunt resistance is a very important parameter that needs to be optimized in PSCs for low illumination conditions.
A Multidimensional Evaluation Method for the Service Life of Scrapped Copper Wires
Authors: Yu Huiling , Sun Hao , Liu Weixia , Zhang Ruiqiu , Yan Yurong , Wu Songping
Published: July 2021

To answer ever‐growing challenges in the copper industry, the recycling of secondary copper resources has aroused much interest. However, an evaluation method for the service life of scrapped copper wires is lacking to date. In this work, a data‐based, multicategorized solution is built to rationally assess evolution law of economic value with time flow for recycled copper‐cored wires, covering their one‐way full cycle including reproduction, storage and sale, and final utilization. Here, the results of reproduced cycles, product life, and service life are logically integrated to establish an inherent relation between engineering and sociology by computer science. Such work provides a multiangle perspective for the value evolution emerging in reproduction/application of waste resources. The basic method originating from the current research is expected to throw light on assessing similar scenes.
Energy Level Alignment at the C60/Monolayer‐WS2 Interface on Insulating and Conductive Substrates
Authors: Ma Jie , Amsalem Patrick , Schultz Thorsten , Shin Dongguen , Xu Xiaomin , Koch Norbert
Published: July 2021

Combining a transition metal dichalcogenide monolayer (ML) and molecular semiconductors is an attractive route for forming nanoscale hybrid van der Waals heterostructures with potentially novel (opto‐)electronic properties. The energy level alignment at the hybrid interface governs these properties, but precise determination of the interfacial electronic structure is challenging due to the pronounced excitonic nature of both components and the non‐trivial band structure of the inorganic ML. For instance, dielectric screening by the supporting substrate of such a heterostructure may impact the energy levels, but very few experiments have attended to this important issue to date. Here, it is shown how photoelectron spectroscopy can be used to unravel the energy level line‐up at the C60/ML‐WS2 interface supported on an insulating (sapphire) and a semi‐metallic (graphite) substrates. On both substrates, an almost identical staggered type‐II level alignment is determined. However, C60/ML‐WS2 exhibits stronger n‐type characteristics on sapphire, which is suggested to be due to native donor‐type defects of ML‐WS2. While these remain occupied and active on the insulating substrate, they are emptied into the charge reservoir of the conductive substrate. These insights should be considered in the future design of functional heterostructures of inorganic ML and molecular semiconductor materials.
Life‐Cycle Assessment Considerations for Batteries and Battery Materials
Authors: Porzio Jason , Scown Corinne D.
Published: July 2021

Rechargeable batteries are necessary for the decarbonization of the energy systems, but life‐cycle environmental impact assessments have not achieved consensus on the environmental impacts of producing these batteries. Nonetheless, life cycle assessment (LCA) is a powerful tool to inform the development of better‐performing batteries with reduced environmental burden. This review explores common practices in lithium‐ion battery LCAs and makes recommendations for how future studies can be more interpretable, representative, and impactful. First, LCAs should focus analyses of resource depletion on long‐term trends toward more energy and resource‐intensive material extraction and processing rather than treating known reserves as a fixed quantity being depleted. Second, future studies should account for extraction and processing operations that deviate from industry best‐practices and may be responsible for an outsized share of sector‐wide impacts, such as artisanal cobalt mining. Third, LCAs should explore at least 2–3 battery manufacturing facility scales to capture size‐ and throughput‐dependent impacts such as dry room conditioning and solvent recovery. Finally, future LCAs must transition away from kg of battery mass as a functional unit and instead make use of kWh of storage capacity and kWh of lifetime energy throughput.
Multi‐Functional Hydrogels for Flexible Zinc‐Based Batteries Working under Extreme Conditions
Authors: Zhao Siyuan , Zuo Yayu , Liu Tong , Zhai Shuo , Dai Yawen , Guo Zengjia , Wang Yang , He Qijiao , Xia Lingchao , Zhi Chunyi , Bae Jinhye , Wang Keliang , Ni Meng
Published: July 2021

Zinc‐based batteries are potential candidates for flexible energy storage due to their high capacity, low cost, and intrinsic safety. Hydrogel electrolytes with saturated aqueous solvents can provide remarkable electrochemical performance while retaining satisfactory flexibility for zinc‐based batteries. The past decades have witnessed their fast growth. However, the study of zinc‐based batteries with hydrogel electrolytes under extreme conditions is still in the early stages and many technical issues remain to be addressed. In this review, the physical and chemical properties of hydrogel electrolytes are discussed for application in zinc‐based batteries. Strategies towards hydrogel electrolytes and flexible zinc‐based batteries under extremely high/low temperatures or under deformation conditions and their behaviors are reviewed and analyzed. Moreover, design strategies for all‐around hydrogel electrolyte that are appropriate for use in all these extreme conditions are proposed. A perspective discussing the challenges and future directions of hydrogel electrolyte for zinc‐based batteries is also provided.
Comparison of Levitt's CO breath test and the 15N‐glycine labeling technique for measuring the lifespan of human red blood cells
Authors: Ye Lei , Ji Yongqiang , Zhou Cong , Luo Junfeng , Zhang Li , Jing Liping , Zhao Xin , Guo Jie , Gao Qingyan , Peng Guangxin , Li Yang , Li Yuan , Li Jianping , Fan Huihui , Yang Wenrui , Yang Yang , Ma Yongjian , Zhang Fengkui
Published: July 2021

The red blood cell (RBC) lifespan is an important physiological indicator of clear significance in clinical research, used for the differential diagnosis of various diseases such as anemia, compensatory phase hemolysis, and polycythemia. The 15N‐glycine labeling technique is the gold standard method for determining RBC lifespans. However, the usefulness of this technique in clinical settings is seriously hindered by the several weeks required to complete the analyses. Levitt's CO breath test is another reliable technique for determining RBC lifespans, with a simpler protocol giving much faster results, making it more useful in clinical applications. We compared the CO breath test and 15N‐glycine labeling technique for measuring the human RBC lifespan. We investigated human RBC lifespans where each subject undertook both the 15N‐glycine labeling technique and the CO breath test. The correlation between the results from these two methods was analyzed. Eight of the ten subjects successfully completed the study. The RBC lifespan values obtained by Levitt's CO breath test were lower than those obtained by the 15N‐glycine labeling technique. The RBC lifespan values determined from the 15N‐glycine labeling technique and the CO breath test were significantly correlated, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of R = 0.98 (p < 0.05), while the R2 of the linear regression equation was 0.96. The CO breath test exhibits as good performance as the 15N‐glycine labelling technique in distinguishing healthy subjects from subjects with hemolysis. The result suggests that the CO breath test is a reliable method for quickly determining human RBC lifespans in clinical applications.
Prosper Lucas and his 1850 “Philosophical and Physiological Treatise on Natural Heredity”
Authors: Kendler Kenneth S.
Published: July 2021

Prosper Lucas (1808–1885) is a unique figure in the history of psychiatric genetics. A physician‐alienist, he authored one of the most important books on human genetics in the mid‐19th century cited frequently by Darwin: the 1,500 page treatise—Philosophical and Physiological Treatise on Natural Heredity (1847–1850). This book contained a novel theory of the nature of inheritance and a detailed review of the heredity of a range of human traits and disorders, including various forms of insanity. Lucas postulated four forms of heredity (direct, crossed, indirect, and atavistic), supported the importance of hereditary factors in insanity, accepted the inheritance of acquired characteristics, considered it important to examine both ancestors and collateral relatives, and recognized that heredity could influence both primary insanity and insanity secondary to other medical conditions. He reviewed the then available literature on most major forms of insanity including separate sections on hallucinations and suicidal monomania. The literature consisted of case reports of unusual families with high concentrations of illness. Lucas advocated for the homogeneity of transmission of forms of illness in families but recognized that—just as the form of illness could evolve within individuals over time—it could change forms when transmitted between relatives.
Supramolecular Bioimaging through Signal Amplification by Combining Indicator Displacement Assay with Förster Resonance Energy Transfer
Authors: Geng Wen‐Chao , Ye Zhongju , Zheng Zhe , Gao Jie , Li Juan‐Juan , Shah Muhammad Raza , Xiao Lehui , Guo Dong‐Sheng
Published: July 2021

Fluorescent chemosensors are powerful imaging tools in the fields of life sciences and engineering. Based on the principle of supramolecular chemistry, indicator displacement assay (IDA) provides an alternative approach for constructing and optimizing chemosensors, which has the advantages of simplicity, tunability, and modularity. However, the application of IDA in bioimaging continues to face a series of challenges, including interfering signals, background noise, and inconsistent spatial location. Accordingly, we herein report a supramolecular bioimaging strategy of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)‐assisted IDA by employing macrocyclic amphiphiles as the operating platform. By merging FRET with IDA, the limitations of IDA in bioimaging were addressed. As a proof of concept, the study achieved mitochondria‐targeted imaging of adenosine triphosphate in live cells with signal amplification. This study opens a non‐covalent avenue for bioimaging with advancements in tunability, generality, and simplicity, apart from the covalent approach.
Reversible Ligand Exchange in Atomically Dispersed Catalysts for Modulating the Activity and Selectivity of the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Kim Jae Hyung , Shin Dongyup , Kim Jinjong , Lim June Sung , Paidi Vinod K. , Shin Tae Joo , Jeong Hu Young , Lee Kug‐Seung , Kim Hyungjun , Joo Sang Hoon
Published: July 2021

Rational control of the coordination environment of atomically dispersed catalysts is pivotal to achieve desirable catalytic reactivity. We report the reversible control of coordination structure in atomically dispersed electrocatalysts via ligand exchange reactions to reversibly modulate their reactivity for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The CO‐ligated atomically dispersed Rh catalyst exhibited ca. 30‐fold higher ORR activity than the NHx‐ligated catalyst, whereas the latter showed three times higher H2O2 selectivity than the former. Post‐treatments of the catalysts with CO or NH3 allowed the reversible exchange of CO and NHx ligands, which reversibly tuned oxidation state of metal centers and their ORR activity and selectivity. DFT calculations revealed that more reduced oxidation state of CO‐ligated Rh site could further stabilize the *OOH intermediate, facilitating the two‐ and four‐electron pathway ORR. The reversible ligand exchange reactions were generalized to Ir‐ and Pt‐based catalysts.
Anti‐Swelling Gradient Polyelectrolyte Hydrogel Membranes as High‐Performance Osmotic Energy Generators
Authors: Bian Guoshuai , Pan Na , Luan Zhaohui , Sui Xin , Fan Wenxin , Xia Yanzhi , Sui Kunyan , Jiang Lei
Published: July 2021

Emerging asymmetric ionic membranes consisting of two different porous membranes show great superiority in harvesting clean and renewable osmotic energy. The main barriers constraining their applications are incompatible interfaces and a low interfacial ionic transport efficiency, which are detrimental to the long‐term stability and improvement of the power density. Here, continuous‐gradient all‐polysaccharide polyelectrolyte hydrogel membranes prepared by ultrafast reaction/diffusion have been demonstrated to enable high‐performance osmotic energy conversion. Besides an inherent high ion conductivity and excellent ion selectivity, the anti‐swelling polyelectrolyte gradient membranes preserve the ionic diode effect of the asymmetric membranes to facilitate one‐way ion diffusion but circumvent adverse interfacial effects. In consequence, they can present ultrahigh power densities of 7.87 W m−2 by mixing seawater and river water, far superior to state‐of‐the‐art membranes.
Fabrication and characterization of alginate/chitosan hydrogel combined with honey and aloe vera for wound dressing applications
Authors: Saberian Mostafa , Seyedjafari Ehsan , Zargar Seyed Jalal , Mahdavi Fatemeh Sadat , Sanaei‐rad Parisa
Published: July 2021

Hydrogels can be one of the best polymeric wound dressings due to the desirable properties of wound healing. In this study, emphasizing the use of natural biomaterials such as Aloe vera and honey in the structure of cross‐linked polymers, a novel hydrogel was produced that might be applied to healing wounds. In the beginning, four hydrogel groups were made from a combination of Sodium Alginate and Chitosan with Aloe vera extract and honey in optimum concentrations. Then the structure of those was evaluated by SEM and FTIR. After confirming hydrogels' structural properties, their physical properties, including swelling, porosity, density, mass loss, stability, and WVTR, were examined. Besides, the hydrogel biocompatibility was assessed by analyzing the cell viability and hemolytic activity. Adhesion of the cells to the hydrogel was also observed by SEM imaging. The results showed that the designed hydrogel has a porous structure with interconnected cavities, which their size can provide suitable conditions for cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation. Also, their physical and structural properties can be a strong suit to wound healing. Although honey's application can weaken the hydrogel structure, honey has beneficial properties due to its complex biomolecules. In contrast, Aloe vera in hydrogel generally improved the hydrogel's specificity for wound healing. According to the results of this study, taking advantage of hydrogels containing honey and Aloe vera based on alginate and chitosan polymers led to the formation of an acceptable structure and biocompatibility that can be used in future researches to repair tissues, especially wounds.
Safe approaching control for spacecraft rendezvous with disturbances: A positive system approach
Authors: Xu Yuhan , Wang Chenliang , Qiao Jianzhong , Guo Lei
Published: July 2021

This paper concerns about the safe approaching in rendezvous with spherical envelops of spacecraft. Based on the nonnegative characteristic of positive systems, a novel strategy of controlling the relative distance positive and convergent is proposed to guarantee no‐collision approaching. The dynamics of the relative distance is decoupled from that of the relative angles. A nonlinear disturbance observer is designed, and two anti‐disturbance controllers are constructed to reject the effect of disturbances for the subsystems of relative distance and angles. Under the controllers, the closed‐loop subsystem of relative distance is a positive and stable system, while that of relative angles is a general stable system satisfying the given time‐varying constraints. Particularly, a theorem is proposed to present the conditions of controllers to ensure the system positivity under a class of external inputs without nonnegativity default. Finally, simulation results are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of proposed methods.
Functional connectivity within an anxiety network and associations with anxiety symptom severity in middle‐aged adults with and without autism
Authors: Tung Ryan , Reiter Maya A. , Linke Annika , Kohli Jiwandeep S. , Kinnear Mikaela K. , Müller Ralph‐Axel , Carper Ruth A.
Published: July 2021

Anxiety is highly prevalent in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). However, few functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies of ASDs have focused on anxiety (and fewer still on anxiety in middle‐aged adults). Thus, relationships between atypical connectivity and anxiety in this population are poorly understood. The current study contrasted functional connectivity within anxiety network regions across adults (40–64 years) with and without autism, and tested for group by functional connectivity interactions on anxiety. Twenty‐two adults with ASDs (16 males) and 26 typical control (TC) adults (22 males) completed the Beck Anxiety Inventory and a resting‐state fMRI scan. An anxiety network consisting of 12 regions of interest was defined, based on a meta‐analysis in TC individuals and two studies on anxiety in ASDs. We tested for main effects of group and group by anxiety interactions on connectivity within this anxiety network, controlling for head motion using ANCOVA. Results are reported at an FDR adjusted threshold of q < 0.1 (corrected) and p < 0.05 (uncorrected). Adults with ASDs showed higher anxiety and underconnectivity within the anxiety network, mostly involving bilateral insula. Connectivity within the anxiety network in the ASD group showed distinct relationships with anxiety symptoms that did not relate to ASD symptom severity. Functional connectivity involving the bilateral posterior insula was positively correlated with anxiety in the ASD (but not the TC) group. Increased anxiety in middle‐aged adults with ASD is associated with atypical functional connectivity, predominantly involving bilateral insula. Results were not related to ASD symptom severity suggesting independence of anxiety‐related effects.

Lay Summary

Anxiety is very common in adults with autism but the brain basis of this difference is not well understood. We compared functional connectivity between anxiety‐related brain regions in middle‐aged adults with and without autism. Adults with autism were more anxious and showed weaker functional connections between these regions. Some relationships between functional connectivity and higher anxiety were specific to the autism group. Results suggest that anxiety functions differently in autism.
Gutachten, Experimentalunterricht und Aufklärung ‐ Etablierungsstrategien der Bayerischen Akademie der Wissenschaften
Authors: Splinter Susan
Published: July 2021

The paper discusses what lay behind the successes of the Bavarian Academy of Science, which was established in 1759. To this end the academic day‐to‐day operations during the first five decades of its existence are being analyzed in four different fields of activity (academia, popularization, distribution of natural knowledge, expertise). It is shown that the academy with its skills und competences operated in several geographical areas and social spaces and acted as advisor for governmental institutions. The Academy established itself as an important institution for collecting, popularizing, and distributing natural knowledge in the residential city of Munich as well in the Bavarian state and took part in the modernization process in Bavaria. It was a transformative institution.