bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In memoriam: urbanismo, literatura e morte
Authors: Ribeiro André Luiz Rosa
Published: December 2022

Este livro propõe compreender práticas e representações relativas à morte no sul da Bahia, relacionando-as com o contexto histórico de emergência e florescimento do urbanismo regional. Enfoca os mecanismos baseados na construção da memória, utilizados na afirmação do poder de determinados grupos políticos. Na análise das formas arquitetônicas e dos materiais empregados em túmulos percebe-se o vínculo entre os discursos construídos sobre a morte e a trajetória das relações sociais locais.
Experience of COVID-19 disease and fear of the SARS-CoV-2 virus among Polish students
Authors: Turska Elżbieta , Stępień-Lampa Natalia , Grzywna Paweł
Published: December 2022

Background

The SARS-CoV-2 virus pandemic has significantly affected individuals and entire societies. It has caused a number of adverse consequences for public health. It has contributed to lower average life expectancy and significantly reduced the sense of health security. It has affected not only physical but also mental health. COVID-19 infections have become so common in many countries, including Poland, that almost every member of society has either experienced it themselves or has a family member or friend who have been affected by the disease. The investigations undertaken in the article concern the fear of COVID-19 infection among Polish university students, determined by the experience of the disease –whether direct or among loved ones.

Methods

An online survey was conducted with 851 students. It took place between 1 and 15 March 2021, a year after detection of the first case of infection with the virus in Poland. The aim of the study was to find out about the relationship between the experience of COVID-19 disease (whether direct or among people close to the respondent) and fear of this disease among university students in Poland. The analysis used intergroup comparison tests (Mann–Whitney U Test and t-test).

Results

The results indicate that the level of fear of COVID-19 among Polish university students was low (M = 1.98; SD = .49), with women (M = 2.04; SD = .75) presenting statistically higher (t (620.46) = 3.05; p = .002) fear than men (M = 1.87; SD = .74). The situation of the respondent having had a close person fall ill with COVID-19 or die as a result of coronavirus infection was found to be significant for the level of experienced fear of COVID-19 in the studied group (t (469.46) = −2.98; p = .003).

Conclusions

The significantly higher level of fear in the group of young people who knew someone close with severe (fatal) COVID-19 disease indicates that psychological support may be more significant for such people than for individuals who have not experienced such a situation. A similar conclusion can be formulated taking into account the gender criterion, as the results make it possible to predict that women expect more support in a pandemic situation.
Spatio–Temporal Variation of Chlorophyll, Nutrients and Productivity in Lagos Lagoon, Lagos Nigeria Using Remote Sensing Approach
Authors: Adewoyin J. E. , Olaifa F. E. , Akintunde-Alo D. A. , Kappo A. , Muibi K. H.
Published: December 2022

Spatio–temporal variation in Chlorophyll, Nutrients and Primary Productivity of some selected sampling stations in Lagos lagoon were investigated using conventional method from November 2019 to July 2020, in order to compare the result with data from satellite image using MODIS Aqua. Global Positioning Receiver was used to capture the geographic coordinates of the sampling stations.  Water sampling was carried out monthly using standard methods during wet and dry seasons. The observed data were subjected to statistical analysis using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 20. In wet season, the highest mean value for Chlorophyll a (1.15±0.02 µg/L) was recorded in Ofin while the lowest values (0.06±0.01 µg/L) was observed in Okobaba. During the dry season, the highest mean value (0.75±0.10 µg/L) was in Ofin while the lowest mean value (0.27±0.0.08 µg/L) was recorded in Ibeshe. The MODIS satellite variation in chlorophyll-a showed that the highest value of highest recorded value (1.37±0.00 µg/L) was in wet season (Ijede) while the lowest value (0.12±0.01 µg/L) was observed in dry season (Okobaba). The highest transparency value (0.97±0.01 mg/L) was recorded in dry season (Ofin) while the lowest value (0.35±0.25 mg/L) was recorded in wet season (Oworonsoki). The highest mean value of Surface Sea temperature was recorded in the dry season of Apapa (30.28±1.15oC) while the lowest mean value (26.41±1.15oC) was observed in Okobaba in the wet season. The chlorophyll-a concentration analyzed using standard method and MODIS satellite, in both dry and wet seasons in the sampled stations differ greatly from one another in terms of the mean concentration. The primary productivity of Lagos Lagoon was relatively low, with no significant spatial variations between sampling stations. The results of sea surface temperature, transparency and chlorophyll ‘a’ estimation from the MODIS revealed that the values were positively correlated with laboratory result with r2-value of 0.67, 0.80 and 0.77. This indicates that MODIS data and laboratory results generated for Lagos Lagoon were positively related.
Influence of Organic and Inorganic Nitrogen on the Growth and Yield of Wheat
Authors: Moniruzzaman Md. , Rabbi Rakibul Hasan Md. , Paul Newton Chandra , Imran Shahin , Mahamud Md. Asif , Islam Md. Shafiqul , Uddin Md. Romij , Sarker Uttam Kumer
Published: December 2022

To assess the effects of organic and inorganic N fertilizers regarding wheat yield and growth a field experiment was carried out from November 2019 to March 2020 at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. There were three replications of the experiment, which was set up using a randomized full block design. The experiment comprises four varieties viz. BARI Gom-28, BARI Gom-30, BARI Gom-31, BARI Gom-32 and five levels of N viz. Control, 90 kg N ha-1 from prilled urea (PU), 57 kg N ha-1 from prilled urea (PU) + 3 t ha-1 poultry manure (PM) as organic N source, 62 kg N ha-1 from PU + 5 t ha-1 cowdung as organic N source, 29 Kg N ha-1 from PU + 4 t ha-1 vermicompost as organic N source. The outcome of the experiment revealed that there were substantial differences in the growth and yield of wheat due to different varietal effects and application of organic and inorganic nitrogen fertilizers, although some of the attributes were not found significant. At growth, BARI Gom-32 produced the highest number of total tillers hill-1 and leaf area index, while the highest number of total tillers hill-1 and leaf area index were obtained from 57 kg N ha-1 from PU and 3 t ha-1 PM at 20, 40, 60 and 80 DAS. At harvest, the highest number of effective tillers plant-1 (2.82), filled grain spike-1 (32.06), 1000-grain weight (61.07 g), grain yield (3.94 t ha-1), straw yield (5.85 t ha-1) and harvest index (40.11%) were obtained from BARI Gom-32. While, application of 57 kg N ha-1 from PU and 3 t ha-1 PM produced the tallest plant (95.49 cm), number of total tillers plant-1 (3.96), number of effective tillers plant-1 (3.20), filled grain spike-1 (36.61), 1000-grain weight (60.18 g from T5), grain yield (4.34 t ha-1), straw yield (6.23 t ha-1) and harvest index (41.07%). Again, the maximum number of total tillers plant-1 (4.06), number of effective tillers plant-1 (3.46), filled grain spike-1 (39.13), 1000-grain weight (64.62 g), grain yield (4.38 t ha-1), straw yield (6.27 t ha-1 ) and harvest index (41.16%) were found from BARI Gom-32 in combination with 57 kg N ha-1 from prilled urea and 3 t ha-1 poultry manure. Therefore, it can be concluded that BARI Gom-32 in combination with 57 kg N ha-1 from prilled urea and 3 t ha-1 poultry manure was more potential in terms of yield and would be suggested for the cultivation of wheat.
Suitability of Representative Concentration Pathway Climate Change Scenarios to Project Weather Elements in the Agro-climatic Zones of Egypt
Authors: Noreldin Tahany , Othman Doaa O. , Hameed Samia M. Abd-El
Published: December 2022

The objective of this study was to compare between measured weather data (2010-2019) and projected data for the same period obtained from three global climate models (HadGEM2-ES, CSIRO-Mk3-6-0, and MIROC5), with its four RCPs scenarios (RCP2.6, RCP4.5, RCP6.0 and RCP8.5) developed for the five agro climatic zones of Egypt and determine the most suitable scenario to be used in each agro-climatic zone for projection of the effect of climate change in the future on the agro-climatic zones of Egypt. Our results revealed that the four climate change scenarios developed from the three models show high level of suitability in the projection of the three studied weather elements. Climate change scenario RCP6.0 and RCP8.5 developed by HadGEM2-ES and CSIRO-Mk3-6-0 attained the highest agreement between measured and projected values of the studied weather elements. Whereas, climate change scenario RCP2.6, RCP6.0 and RCP8.5 developed by MIROC5 attained the highest agreement between measured and projected values of the studied weather elements. Thus, we recommend the use these models in the projection of the effect of climate change in the future in the agro-climatic zones of Egypt.
Profitability Assessment of Sprinkler Irrigated Maize Production in Semi-Arid area of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
Authors: Bashir Ali Umar , Muhammed Goni, , Isah M. A. , Ngala Adam Lawan
Published: December 2022

Water has been identified as one of the scarce inputs, which can severely restrict agricultural production and productivity unless it is carefully conserved and managed. Increasing the adoption of irrigation technology is an important requirement for increasing Nigeria’s agricultural productivity. Farmers use the furrow irrigation method and fixed irrigation interval schedule for maize production in this region. The irrigation method used by the farmers has become unsustainable due to low yield, low water use efficiency, low quality of maize kernels and low net farm income. Thus, there is a growing gap between the demand for maize and its production to meet the food requirement for the growing population. The aim of this study was to determine the profitability of sprinkler irrigation method for maize production in semi-arid environment of Nigeria. Two field experiments were conducted in the 2014 and 2015 seasons at the Teaching and Research Farm of Ramat Polytechnic Maiduguri, Borno State which is located in the semi-arid region of Northern Nigeria. The sprinkler irrigation system used consisted of a reservoir, mainline and six laterals spaced 12 meters apart. Each treatment was irrigated using two laterals and each lateral has a control valve for regulating the flow of water.  Each lateral consisted of three double nozzle sprinklers spaced 6 meters apart along the lateral. The diameters of the mainline and the laterals were 101.6 and 31.75mm respectively. The area irrigated by the sprinkler system was cleared and marked out into plots of sizes 12m2. Scheduling was on the use of tensiometer, pan evaporation and fixed irrigation interval. Irrigation was conducted in the plots monitored by the tensiometer whenever the trigger level of 30cb is reached. The crops were irrigated at 1.0 IW/CPE ratio for optimum yield based on the evaporation pan method.  The profitability analysis result revealed that Sprinkler irrigation was found to be a profitable irrigation method for maize production with net farm income of $460.8 and benefit cost ratio of 1.99. Based on the results, it is recommended that farmers in the semi-arid region of Nigeria should use the sprinkler irrigation method for improved maize production.
Resilient Infrastructure as a Tool for Flood Risk Management in Nigeria: A Review
Authors: Onugba Michael Attah , Onugba Abraham , Bamigboye Margaret Eke
Published: December 2022

Flooding is a disaster which may occur naturally or as an effect of human activities. Flooding which is a global hazard has resulted in devastating effects on humans and the environment. Thousands of lives are lost and properties worth several millions of dollars are destroyed annually due to flooding in Nigeria. Various Flood Risk Management (FRM) approaches have been employed to manage this menace in Nigeria resulting in little success. This paper highlights the types, causes and impact of flooding in Nigeria as well as evaluate the efforts at local and national levels in FRM. After due considerations of performance and lapses of past efforts, the article advances the resilient infrastructure approach as a formidable and sustainable FRM option for Nigeria.
The Likelihood of the Saudi Population to Accept Covid-19 Vaccine
Authors: Alshehri Abdulaziz Jaber , Alqorashi Amani Mohammad , Felemban Bahaa Ali , Alsayed Fahad Oudah , Bagazi Ghadah Omar , Shalabi Maram , Aldousari Mohammed Mefleh , Almohammadi Nehad Abdul Rahman , Almuwallad Meshal Abdulrahman , Hamzi Samirah Hassan , Almawardi Souad Ayman
Published: December 2022

Background: The global spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (COVID-19) pandemic has threatened public health systems and aggravated international economic situations. The study investigated the different factors affecting the feasibility of Saudi intention to take Covid-19 Vaccines. A Cross-sectional study based on an online questionnaire from February 2021 to April 2021.

Results: Most respondents would wear a face mask during all activities with a positive attitude toward using hand sanitizers to prevent COVID-19. Most respondents (88.8%) still needed to be vaccinated, and less than half of them stated that they have a family member or a close relative who got immunized (43.4%), the acceptance of vaccination if the vaccine is generally available was 64.4%. More than half of the respondents agreed about the vaccine’s safety while 34.8% stated having fears about the vaccine.

Conclusion: The participants have proper information about the Covid-19 pandemic, preventive measures, and the role of vaccines in preventing the spread of the disease with a high acceptance rate of vaccines and low levels of fear regarding the side effects of the vaccines.
Craniotomy, a Love Story
Authors: Benvenuto Christine
Published: December 2022

In this narrative medicine essay, a mother describes the process of diagnosis, craniotomy, and recovery her child experienced as a tribute to her child’s courage.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients Hospitalized With COVID-19 During the First 4 Waves in Zambia
Authors: Minchella Peter A. , Chanda Duncan , Hines Jonas Z. , Fwoloshi Sombo , Itoh Megumi , Kampamba Davies , Chirwa Robert , Sivile Suilanji , Zyambo Khozya D. , Agolory Simon , Mulenga Lloyd B.
Published: December 2022

Importance

Few epidemiologic studies related to COVID-19 have emerged from countries in Africa, where demographic characteristics, epidemiology, and health system capacity differ from other parts of the world.

Objectives

To describe the characteristics and outcomes of patients admitted to COVID-19 treatment centers, assess risk factors for in-hospital death, and explore how treatment center admissions were affected by COVID-19 waves in Zambia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study assessed patients admitted to COVID-19 treatment centers in 5 Zambian cities between March 1, 2020, and February 28, 2022.

Exposures

Risk factors for in-hospital mortality, including patient age and severity of COVID-19, at treatment center admission.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Patient information was collected, including inpatient disposition (discharged or died). Differences across and within COVID-19 waves were assessed. Mixed-effects logistic regression models were used to assess associations between risk factors and in-hospital mortality as well as between characteristics of admitted patients and timing of admission.

Results

A total of 3876 patients were admitted during 4 COVID-19 waves (mean [SD] age, 50.6 [19.5] years; 2103 male [54.3%]). Compared with the first 3 waves (pooled), the proportion of patients who were 60 years or older admitted during wave 4, when the Omicron variant was circulating, was significantly lower (250 of 1009 [24.8%] vs 1116 of 2837 [39.3%]; P < .001). Factors associated with in-hospital mortality included older age (≥60 vs <30 years; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.55; 95% CI, 2.34-5.52) and HIV infection (aOR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.07-1.79). Within waves, patients who were admitted during weeks 5 to 9 had significantly higher odds of being 60 years or older (aOR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.79-2.45) or having severe COVID-19 at admission (aOR, 2.49; 95% CI, 2.14-2.90) than those admitted during the first 4 weeks.

Conclusions and Relevance

The characteristics of admitted patients during the Omicron wave and risk factors for in-hospital mortality in Zambia reflect data reported elsewhere. Within-wave analyses revealed a pattern in which it appeared that admission of higher-risk patients was prioritized during periods when there were surges in demand for health services during COVID-19 waves. These findings support the need to expand health system capacity and improve health system resiliency in Zambia and other countries with resource-limited health systems.
Analysis of Human Leukocyte Antigen DR Alleles, Immune-Related Adverse Events, and Survival Associated With Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Use Among Patients With Advanced Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Akturk Halis Kaan , Couts Kasey L. , Baschal Erin E. , Karakus Kagan E. , Van Gulick Robert J. , Turner Jacqueline A. , Pyle Laura , Robinson William A. , Michels Aaron W.
Published: December 2022

Importance

Treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has increased survival in patients with advanced malignant melanoma but can be associated with a wide range of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The role of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)–DR alleles in conferring irAE risk has not been well studied.

Objective

To evaluate the association between irAEs and treatment response, survival, and the presence of HLA-DR alleles after ICI therapy in advanced melanoma.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This case-control study used the patient registry and biobanked samples from the tertiary referral University of Colorado Cancer Center. Specimens and clinical data were collected between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2021. Patients with advanced (stage III unresectable and stage IV) melanoma who received ICI therapy (n = 132) were included in the analysis.

Exposures

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (anti–cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4, anti–programmed cell death protein 1 or its ligand, or the combination) for the treatment of advanced melanoma.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The association between irAEs and response to therapy, survival, and HLA-DR alleles.

Results

Among the cohort of 132 patients with advanced melanoma (mean [SD] age, 63.4 [7.2] years; 85 men [64%] and 47 women [36%]) treated with ICIs, 73 patients had at least 1 irAE and 59 did not have an irAE. Compared with patients without an irAE, patients with an irAE had higher treatment response rates (50 of 72 [69%] vs 28 of 57 [49%]; P = .02) and increased survival (median, 4.8 [IQR, 0.2-9.6] vs 3.2 [IQR, 0.1-9.2] years; P = .02). Specific HLA-DR alleles were associated with the type of irAE that developed: 7 of 10 patients (70%) who developed type 1 diabetes had DR4; 6 of 12 (50%) who developed hypothyroidism had DR8; 5 of 8 (63%) who developed hypophysitis had DR15; 3 of 5 (60%) who developed pneumonitis had DR1; and 8 of 15 (53%) who developed hepatitis had DR4.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that IrAEs are associated with treatment response rates and increased survival after ICI therapy for advanced melanoma. Because distinct HLA-DR alleles are associated with given adverse events, HLA genotyping before ICI therapy may aid in identifying risk for specific irAEs that could develop with such treatment.
Si/SiO2@Graphene Superstructures for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ma Yiru , Qu Huiqi , Wang Wenna , Yu Yueqin , Zhang Xinghao , Li Bin , Wang Lei
Published: December 2022

The superstructure composed of various functional building units is promising nanostructure for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) anodes with extreme volume change and structure instability, such as silicon‐based materials. Here, a top‐down route to fabricate Si/SiO2@graphene superstructure is demonstrated through reducing silicalite‐1 with magnesium reduction and depositing carbon layers. The successful formation of superstructure lies on the strong 3D network formed by the bridged‐SiO2 matrix coated around silicon nanoparticles. Furthermore, the mesoporous Si/SiO2 with amorphous bridged SiO2 facilitates the deposition of graphene layers, resulting in excellent structural stability and high ion/electron transport rate. The optimized Si/SiO2@graphene superstructure anode delivers an outstanding cycling life for ≈1180 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1 over 500 cycles, excellent rate capability for ≈908 mAh g−1 at 12 A g−1, great areal capacity for ≈7 mAh cm−2 at 0.5 mA cm−2, and extraordinary mechanical stability. A full cell test using LiFePO4 as the cathode manifests a high capacity of 134 mAh g−1 after 290 loops. More notably, a series of technologies disclose that the Si/SiO2@graphene superstructure electrode can effectively maintain the film between electrode and electrolyte in LIBs. This design of Si/SiO2@graphene superstructure elucidates a promising potential for commercial application in high‐performance LIBs.
Co‐Polymer Carrier with Dual Advantages of Cartilage‐Penetrating and Targeting Improves Delivery and Efficacy of MicroRNA Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhao Yipu , Deng Xudong , Tan Shenxing , Zhang Jie , Han Jiangfan , Wang Xue , Pei Jiawei , Li Hui , Deng Xiaoni , Yin Chong , Yin Dachuan , Tian Ye , Qian Airong
Published: December 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating joint disease affecting nearly 400 million people with no efficient etiological therapies. OA is primarily identified by cartilage destruction, and gradual degeneration of the whole joint would happen when the OA progresses. Hence, cartilage has been identified as the primary therapeutic target of OA. Unfortunately, numerous barriers block the delivery of therapeutic agents into cartilage, including avascular traits and high hardness of the extracellular matrix. Herein, a cartilage‐targeting peptide (CAP) modified polyvinylamine (PVAm)‐ poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) copolymer (CAP‐PVAm‐PLGA) is designed, which can form spherical nanoparticles with the r‐miR‐140 (CPP‐NPs). CPP‐NPs possessed enhanced mechanical properties due to the introduction of PLGA to vehicles. Meanwhile, CAP endowed the cartilage targeting which facilitated CPP‐NPs localization in cartilage. With such dual advantages, CPP‐NPs exhibited outstanding penetrability and accumulation in cartilage even subchondral bone, and can penetrate to a depth of 1000 µm into human cartilage. The degeneration area of cartilage is reduced by 65% and synovial inflammation score by 80% in OA mice, and the microarchitecture of subchondral bone is also ameliorated. These studies established a promising platform for therapeutic RNA delivery in OA therapy that overcame the cartilage barriers.
Molecular Electronics: Creating and Bridging Molecular Junctions and Promoting Its Commercialization
Authors: Li Tianming , Bandari Vineeth Kumar , Schmidt Oliver G.
Published: December 2022

Molecular electronics is driven by the dream of expanding Moore's law to the molecular level for next‐generation electronics through incorporating individual or ensemble molecules into electronic circuits. For nearly 50 years, numerous efforts have been made to explore the intrinsic properties of molecules and develop diverse fascinating molecular electronic devices with the desired functionalities. The flourishing of molecular electronics is inseparable from the development of various elegant methodologies for creating nanogap electrodes and bridging the nanogap with molecules. This review first focuses on the techniques for making lateral and vertical nanogap electrodes by breaking, narrowing, and fixed modes, and highlights their capabilities, applications, merits, and shortcomings. After summarizing the approaches of growing single molecules or molecular layers on the electrodes, the methods of constructing a complete molecular circuit are comprehensively grouped into three categories: 1) directly bridging one‐molecule–electrode component with another electrode, 2) physically bridging two‐molecule–electrode components, and 3) chemically bridging two‐molecule–electrode components. Finally, the current state of molecular circuit integration and commercialization is discussed and perspectives are provided, hoping to encourage the community to accelerate the realization of fully scalable molecular electronics for a new era of integrated microsystems and applications.
Tamm‐Plasmon Exciton‐Polaritons in Single‐Monolayered CsPbBr3 Quantum Dots at Room Temperature
Authors: Yen Meng‐Cheng , Lee Chia‐Jung , Yao Yung‐Chi , Chen Yuan‐Ling , Wu Sheng‐Chan , Hsu Hsu‐Cheng , Kajino Yuto , Lin Gong‐Ru , Tamada Kaoru , Lee Ya‐Ju
Published: December 2022

Constructing polaritonic devices in monolithic, ultra‐compact photonic architectures with monolayer‐featured exciton‐emitters is decisive to exploit the coherent superposition between entangled photonic and excitonic eigenstates for potential realizations of optical nonlinearities, macroscopic condensations, and superfluidity. Here, a feasible strategy for exciton‐polariton formations is demonstrated by implementing a Tamm‐plasmon (TP) polaritonic device with the active material composed of single‐monolayered perovskite (CsPbBr3) quantum dots (QDs). The metallic character of the TP configuration is able to concentrate its resonance mode into a confined region beyond the diffraction limit, which highly overlaps, both spatially and spectrally, with the single‐monolayered CsPbBr3 QDs embedded inside. The mode volume of the device is hence reduced dramatically, leading to an enhanced light–matter coupling strength for the polaritonic emission at room temperature. In particular, it is found that the dispersion relation of the TP polaritonic device is tunable by detuning the excitonic and photonic eigenmodes and that the polariton–polariton interaction energy is strongly dependent on the polariton's spin state. The presented strategy is a determinant step toward the realization of strong light–matter coupling and polariton spintronics in the CsPbBr3 QDs with a single‐monolayered feature.
Microneedle Sensors for Multiplex Applications: Toward Advanced Biomedical and Environmental Analysis
Authors: Omar Rawan , Zheng Youbin , Wang Jing , Haick Hossam
Published: December 2022

Microneedles (MNs) are versatile tiny devices that have attracted interest in various fields including medicine, environment, food and agriculture due to their unique properties, such as low‐cost, simplicity, pain‐free application and minimally invasive penetration, therapeutic efficacy, biosensing ability, and biocompatibility. These properties along with the MNs distinctive geometry including dimension control, material type and fabrication techniques have enabled the optimization of MNs based on each desired application. This review summarizes the latest advances in MN‐based sensors in a variety of fields and provides a bird's eye view over the wide range of applications, starting from material and fabrication techniques to advanced sensor types in the biomedical and environmental fields for both sensing and treatment, and showing the profound advantages of this emerging tool in clinical and sustainable fields.
Metal Halides Based Flexible X‐Ray Detectors
Authors: Wang Shuo , Chen HuanYu , Jin Zhiwen
Published: December 2022

Recently, metal halides (MH) flexible X‐ray detectors have attracted remarkable research interest owing to their great potential for non‐planar imaging, which can eliminate imaging ghosting caused by the misfit between the detector and the object. In this review, recent progress in flexible X‐ray detectors, including advanced optimized techniques of MH and novel flexible substrate structures, is summarized. In addition, the main photoelectric property characterizations are depicted along with their detailed physical meaning and analytical methods. To conclude, the existing vital gap between development status and commercial requirements and the corresponding optimization research directions is also covered.
Regulatory Fibroblast‐Like Synoviocytes Cell Membrane Coated Nanoparticles: A Novel Targeted Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Liu Yuan , Rao Peishi , Qian Hongyan , Shi Yesi , Chen Shiju , Lan Jingying , Mu Dan , Chen Rongjuan , Zhang Xinwei , Deng Chaoqiong , Liu Gang , Shi Guixiu
Published: December 2022

Fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS) are the main cell component in the inflamed joints of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). FLS intimately interact with infiltrating T cells. Fibroblasts have potent inhibitory effects on T cells, leading to the resolution of inflammation and immune tolerance. However, this “regulatory” phenotype is defect in RA, and FLS in RA instead act as “proinflammatory” phenotype mediating inflammation perpetuation. Signals that orchestrate fibroblast heterogeneity remain unclear. Here, it is demonstrated that different cytokines can induce distinct phenotypes of FLS. Interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) is pivotal in inducing the regulatory phenotype of FLS (which is termed FLSreg) characterized by high expressions of several inhibitory molecules. Rapamycin enhances the effect of IFN‐γ on FLS. Based on the characteristics of FLSreg, a novel biomimetic therapeutic strategy for RA is designed by coating cell membrane derived from FLSreg induced by IFN‐γ and rapamycin on nanoparticles, which is called FIRN. FIRN show good efficacy, stability, and inflammatory joint targeting ability in an RA mouse model. The findings clarify how fibroblast phenotypes are modulated in the inflammatory microenvironment and provide insights into novel therapeutic designs for autoimmune diseases based on regulatory fibroblasts.
An efficient and universal solar interfacial photothermal reactor toward liquid phase oxidation
Authors: Wu Chen , Wang Wenbin , Zhu Kai , Li Wenrui , Cai Dong , Chen Zhanwei , Wang Peng , Zhang Qiuyu , Zhang Hepeng
Published: December 2022

Photothermal catalysis has attracted great attention owing to high solar energy utilization efficiency, and great progress has been achieved in gas‐phase catalysis. However, photothermal catalysis in liquid‐phase shows a limited performance, due to high specific heat capacity of liquid. Herein, an interfacial photothermal catalytic (IPC) strategy applying an IPC leaf was designed for liquid‐phase catalysis using benzyl alcohol oxidation as the model reaction. On even ground, the benzaldehyde generation rate (8.7 mmol gcat−1 h−1) of the IPC system with Ce‐doped MnO2 as photothermal catalyst was almost 4.8 times and 3 times of bulk photothermal catalysis and the relative bulk thermal catalysis. Experimental results proved that this excellent catalytic performance could be attributed to both the high temperature achieved and the enhanced lattice oxygen activity by solar irradiation. This IPC system also exhibited good universality and long‐term durability. Our work innovatively created a green strategy to obtain fine chemicals with only solar irradiation.
An increase in the developmental tempo affects the secular trend in height in male Austrian conscripts birth cohorts 1951–2002
Authors: Kirchengast Sylvia , Juan Alfred , Waldhoer Thomas , Yang Lin
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Using population‐based data on height in Austria from birth cohort 1951 to 2002, we aim to evaluate the secular trends in height and developmental tempo among Austrian young men.

Methods

Data were obtained from the Austrian conscription medical examination. We included 1 205 112 conscripts (18–<20 years) who were born between 1951 and 2002 and 853 645 conscripts (17–<19 years) who were born between 1961 and 2002. Height was measured during the medical examination and was used to evaluate the secular trends of mean height over time. Furthermore, the mean difference in height between conscripts of 17‐ and 18 years old were compared across birth cohorts.

Results

The mean height of conscripts aged 17 years increased by 2.2 cm (p < .0001) in between 1961 and 2002. The mean height of conscripts aged 18 years increased by 4.3 cm (p < .0001) between 1951 and 2002. However, the increase in mean height has slowed down since the 1970 s. The difference in mean height between 17 and 18 years old widened from about 0.1 cm in 1961 to 0.3 cm around 1970 and then steadily narrowed again to 0.1 cm at the end of the study period.

Conclusions

The increasing trend in height slows at the end of the 20th century, the developmental tempo at the population level, however, continued to increase. The difference in mean height between 17 and 18 years old narrowed, which may indicate that young men reached their final height earlier.
Optical Nonlinearity of Emerging ZrS2 and HfS2 Semiconductors
Authors: Lu Chunhui , Ge Yanqing , Luo Mingwei , Xu Xinlong
Published: December 2022

Compatible with existing processing technology, chemical vapor deposition method is used to synthesize ZrS2 and HfS2 films a a large scale. The nonlinear optical properties are characterized by Z‐scan measurement with femtosecond pulses at 800 nm. The results show that saturable absorption happens in ZrS2 owing to the larger ground state absorption than the excited state absorption, while reverse saturable absorption appears in HfS2 due to the two‐photon absorption. The figure of merit values of ZrS2 (≈4.30 ± 0.12 × 10−15 esu cm) and HfS2 (≈6.0 ± 1.4 × 10−15 esu cm) are much larger than those of MoS2 and graphene in ultrafast nonlinear optical performance at the wavelength of 800 nm.
Stainless Steel‐Like Passivation Inspires Persistent Silicon Anodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Lin Jie , Wang Laisen , Xie Qingshui , Luo Qing , Peng Dong‐Liang , Buddie Mullins C. , Heller Adam
Published: December 2022

Passivation of stainless steel by additives forming mass‐transport blocking layers is widely practiced, where Cr element is added into bulk Fe−C forming the Cr2O3‐rich protective layer. Here we extend the long‐practiced passivation concept to Si anodes for lithium‐ion batteries, incorporating the passivator of LiF/Li2CO3 into bulk Si. The passivation mechanism is studied by various ex situ characterizations, redox peak contour maps, thickness evolution tests, and finite element simulations. The results demonstrate that the passivation can enhance the (de)lithiation of Li‐Si alloys, induce the formation of F‐rich solid electrolyte interphase, stabilize the Si/LiF/Li2CO3 composite, and mitigate the volume change of Si anodes upon cycling. The 3D passivated Si anode can fully retain a high capacity of 3701 mAh g−1 after 1500 cycles and tolerate high rates up to 50C. This work provides insight into how to construct durable Si anodes through effective passivation.
Aluminoborates as Nonlinear Optical Materials
Authors: Jiao Jiahao , Zhang Min , Pan Shilie
Published: December 2022

Ultraviolet (UV) and Deep‐UV (DUV, λ<200 nm) nonlinear optical (NLO) materials play a significant role to convert the wavelength of laser for producing UV/DUV coherent light in the laser industry. The Al [Ne]3s23p1 atom with empty d orbitals can form sp3, sp3d, and sp3d2 hybrid orbitals when bonding with O/F atoms, which leads to the construction of [AlOmFn] (m+n=4, 5, 6) units. Therein, aluminoborates have received intensive attention due to the effective structural and functional adjustment effects of the diverse Al−O/F units. Accordingly, numerous aluminoborates as candidates for the next generation of UV/DUV NLO materials were discovered. In this review, recently discovered aluminoborates are overviewed and analyzed, including their syntheses, crystal structure features, and second‐order NLO performances. We aim to provide the latest progress and outlook on the crystal chemistry of aluminoborates and boost the finding of the next NLO candidates with high performances.
Synthesis of Chiral Sulfoximines via Iridium‐Catalyzed Regio‐ and Enantioselective C−H Borylation: A Remarkable Sidearm Effect of Ligand
Authors: Song Shu‐Yong , Zhou Xiaoyu , Ke Zhuofeng , Xu Senmiao
Published: December 2022

Transition metal‐catalyzed enantioselective C−H activation of prochiral sulfoximines for non‐annulated products remains a formidable challenge. We herein report iridium‐catalyzed enantioselective C−H borylation ofN‐silyl diaryl sulfoximines using a well‐designed chiral bidentate boryl ligand with a bulky side arm. This method is capable of accommodating a broad range of substrates under mild reaction conditions, affording a vast array of chiral sulfoximines with high enantioselectivities. We also demonstrated the synthetic utility on a preparative‐scale C−H borylation for diverse downstream transformations, including the synthesis of chiral version of bioactive molecules. Computational studies showed that the bulky side arm of the ligand confers high regio‐ and enantioselectivity through steric effect.
Folding‐Induced Promotion of Proton‐Coupled Electron Transfers via Proximal Base for Light‐Driven Water Oxidation
Authors: Noll Niklas , Groß Tobias , Shoyama Kazutaka , Beuerle Florian , Würthner Frank
Published: December 2022

Proton‐coupled electron‐transfer (PCET) processes play a key role in biocatalytic energy conversion and storage, for example, photosynthesis or nitrogen fixation. Here, we report a series of bipyridine‐containing di‐ to tetranuclear Ru(bda) macrocycles 2 C–4 C (bda: 2,2′‐bipyridine‐6,6′‐dicarboxylate) to promote O−O bond formation. In photocatalytic water oxidation under neutral conditions, all complexes 2 C–4 C prevail in a folded conformation that support the water nucleophilic attack (WNA) pathway with remarkable turnover frequencies of up to 15.5 s−1 per Ru unit respectively. Single‐crystal X‐ray analysis revealed an increased tendency for intramolecular π‐π stacking and preorganization of the proximal bases close to the active centers for the larger macrocycles. H/D kinetic isotope effect studies and electrochemical data demonstrate the key role of the proximal bipyridines as proton acceptors in lowering the activation barrier for the crucial nucleophilic attack of H2O in the WNA mechanism.
Lipid Analysis by Mass Spectrometry coupled with Laser Light
Authors: Kirschbaum Carla , Pagel Kevin
Published: December 2022

Lipids are small but complex biomolecules that feature an immense structural and functional diversity. The molecular structure and biological functions of lipids are intricately linked. Therefore, modern lipid analysis strives for complete structural elucidation and spatial mapping of individual species in tissues. Mass spectrometry is the uncontested key technology in lipidomics but cannot achieve this goal as a standalone technique. In particular, the distinction between frequently occurring isomers constitutes a major challenge. A promising step towards complete structural analysis of lipids consists in the coupling of mass spectrometry with laser light. Here we review recent advances in lipidomics applications employing laser‐induced ultraviolet and infrared photodissociation and ion spectroscopy, which substantially increase the gain in structural information. Fundamental concepts, instrumentation and promises of these powerful emerging techniques for future lipid analysis are outlined.
Near‐Infrared Spectroscopic Characterization of Cardiac and Renal Fibrosis in Fixed and Fresh Rat Tissue
Authors: Adegoke John A. , Gassner Callum , Sharma Varun J. , Patel Sheila K. , Jackett Louise , Afara Isaac O. , Raman Jaishankar , Burrell Louise M. , Wood Bayden R.
Published: December 2022

Invited for this month‘s cover are the collaborating group(s) of Center for Biospectroscopy at Monash University and Austin Health at the University of Melbourne, University of Eastern Finland and the University of Queensland. The cover‐art shows a handheld near‐infrared spectroscopic probe to detect fibrosis in real time using a murine model. More information can be found in the Research Article by John A. Adegoke, Jaishankar Raman, Bayden R. Wood, and co‐workers.
Multiple Open and Closed Nodal‐Line Phonons in Solids with a 1 Space Group
Authors: Wang Xiaotian , Sun Tingting , Xie Chengwu , Yuan Hongkuan , Tie Yang , Zhang Zeying , Zhang Gang
Published: December 2022

Unlike electron systems, the phonon system has its own advantages (such as no limitations regarding Fermi energy and the effect of spin‐orbit coupling) and, therefore, can be viewed as a unique platform to predict spinless nodal‐line states. Nodal‐line phonons can be divided into open and closed nodal‐line phonons from a mathematical point of view. In this work, using first‐principle calculations, we select Ba(AgS)2 and Ca(ZnP)2, with the space group 1, as examples of realistic materials to investigate the difference between the open and closed nodal‐line phonons. Two phonon band‐crossing points (PBCPs) along the K–Γ and H–A paths are present in their phonon spectra, and they correspond to closed nodal lines in Ba(AgS)2 and open nodal lines in Ca(ZnP)2, respectively. The difference between these two types nodal‐line phonons is explained through symmetry analysis. All the nodal‐line phonons are topologically nontrivial, with the prominent phonon surface states well separated from the bulk states, favorable for experimental detection. This work offers a deep understanding of the open and closed nodal‐line phonons. It also proposes ideal candidates with multiple open and closed nodal‐line phonons for follow‐up experimental confirmation.
Synthesis of green emissive terbium(III) complexes for displays: Optical, electrochemical and photoluminescent analysis
Authors: Nehra Kapeesha , Dalal Anuj , Hooda Anjli , Saini Raman Kumar , Singh Devender , Kumar Sumit , Malik Rajender Singh , Kumar Ramesh , Kumar Parvin
Published: December 2022

A series of heteroleptic terbium(III) complexes with fluorinated 2‐thenoyltrifluoroacetone (TTFA) and other heteroaromatic units have been synthesized. The developed heteroleptic complexes were inspected via elemental study, cyclic voltammetry, thermal analysis and spectroscopic investigations. Optical band‐gap data proposed the conducting property of prepared complexes. The photoluminescence emission profiles illustrated peaks based on terbium(III) cation (Tb3+) positioned at ~617, 586, 546 and 491 nm, imputed to 5D4 to 7FJ (J = 3,4,5,6) transitions separately. Most intense peak at 546 nm corresponding to 5D4 → 7F5 transition is accountable for the green emissive character of developed complexes. The luminous character of complexes reveals the sensitization of Tb3+ by ligands. Color parameters further corroborates the green emanation of Tb3+ complexes. The photometric characteristics of complexes recommended their usages in designing display devices.
Simultaneous determination and quality evaluation of 16 compounds in Ligustri Lucidi Fructus covering different regions and processed products using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Li Xiaoan , Jia Jianzhong , Li Tao , Zhao Zefeng , Ren Chaoxiang , Liu Haijing , Pei Jin
Published: December 2022

A quantitative analysis method and a chemical pattern recognition method were developed to evaluate raw Ligustri Lucidi Fructus (LLF) from different regions and different processed products. In this study, a comprehensive strategy using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry quantitative analysis method was established for the simultaneous determination of 16 components in 47 batches of LLF covering 19 regions belonging to 8 provinces and 24 batches of different processed products (steamed LLF without auxiliary material, wine‐steamed LLF, salt‐steamed LLF, and vinegar‐steamed LLF). The results of this study indicated that the proposed method was reliable and accurate for the rapid analysis proved by detection limit, quantification limit, precision, and accuracy. Furthermore, principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis were employed to analyze the experimental data, showing that the best‐quality samples of 47 batches of raw LLF were S47 (Lantian, Shaanxi), S39 (Pingyang‐2, Shandong), S38 (Pingyang‐1, Shandong), and S45 (Lingbao, Henan), whereas the worst‐quality samples were S7–S16 (Huzhou, Zhejiang). In 24 batches of processed products, the best‐quality samples were S48 (salt steamed 2 h), S60 (wine steamed 2 h), and S61 (wine steamed 4 h). Meanwhile, the heat map showed that the contents of triterpenoid saponins, including C16 (ursolic acid), C15 (oleanic acid), and C14 (maslinic acid), were higher than those of other compounds in 71 batches of samples. These results suggested that the quality of raw LLF in the central and northern regions was better than that in the southern regions, and regarding the processed products, different auxiliary materials had little effect on the quality of LLF, but steaming time of 2 h was appropriate. Briefly, this study proposed a multiparameter quantitative analysis method for the overall quality control of raw LLF samples covering different regions in China and different processed LLF.
An altered oral microbiota induced by injections of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle‐labeled periodontal ligament stem cells helps periodontal bone regeneration in rats
Authors: Shi Zihan , Jia Lu , Zhang Qian , Sun Liuxu , Wang Xinyue , Qin Xuan , Xia Yang
Published: December 2022

Stem cell injection is good for periodontal regeneration due to the capacity of stem cells to differentiate toward osteogenic direction and to regulate the production of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines. However, injected cells are difficult to track in vivo. And there is microbiota in oral cavity, the dysbiosis of which leads to the damage and loss of periodontal tissue. Here, we demonstrated an enhanced periodontal repair was due to an altered oral microbiota. Periodontal defects were surgically prepared in rats, and periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) labeled by superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles (PC‐SPIO) were injected, with PDLSCs and saline treatments as controls. Detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histological staining, PC‐SPIO was major at limited areas in regenerated periodontal tissues. PC‐SPIO‐treated rats achieved better periodontal regeneration than the other two groups. Concurrently, the oral microbiota of PC‐SPIO‐treated rats was changed, presenting SPIO‐Lac as a biomarker. SPIO‐Lac assisted periodontal repair in vivo, inhibited the inflammation of macrophages induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and antibacterial in vitro. Therefore, our study proved that SPIO‐labeled cells can be tracked in periodontal defect and highlighted a potential positive role of an oral microbiota in periodontal regeneration, suggesting the possibility of periodontal repair promotion by manipulating oral microbiota.