bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of climate change on the geographical distribution and niche dynamics of Gastrodia elata
Authors: Hu Juan , Feng Ying , Zhong Haotian , Liu Wei , Tian Xufang , Wang Yehong , Tan Tao , Hu Zhigang , Liu Yifei
Published: July 2023

Background

Gastrodia elata is widely used in China as a valuable herbal medicine. Owing to its high medicinal and nutrient value, wild resources of G. elata have been overexploited and its native areas have been severely damaged. Understanding the impacts of climate change on the distribution of this endangered species is important for the conservation and sustainable use of G. elata.

Methods

We used the optimized maximum entropy model to simulate the potential distribution of G. elata under contemporary and future time periods (1970–2000, 2050s, 2070s, and 2090s) and different climate change scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5). Under these conditions, we investigated the key environmental factors influencing the distribution of G. elata as well as the spatial and temporal characteristics of its niche dynamics.

Results

With high Maxent model accuracy (AUCmean = 0.947 ± 0.012, and the Kappa value is 0.817), our analysis revealed that annual precipitation, altitude, and mean temperature of driest quarter are the most important environmental factors influencing the distribution of G. elata. Under current bioclimatic conditions, the potentially suitable area for G. elata in China is 71.98 × 104 km2, while the highly suitable region for G. elata growth is 7.28 × 104 km2. Our models for three future periods under four climate change scenarios indicate that G. elata can maintain stable distributions in southern Shaanxi, southwestern Hubei, and around the Sichuan basin, as these areas are highly suitable for its growth. However, the center of the highly suitable areas of G. elata shift depending on different climatic scenarios. The values of niche overlap for G. elata show a decreasing trend over the forecasted periods, of which the niche overlap under the SSP3-7.0 scenario shows the greatest decrease.

Discussions

Under the condition of global climate change in the future, our study provides basic reference data for the conservation and sustainable utilization of the valuable and endangered medicinal plant G. elata. It is important to carefully choose the protection area of G. elata wild resources according the suitable area conditions modeled. Moreover, these findings will be valuable for providing insights into the breeding and artificial cultivation of this plant, including the selection of suitable areas for planting.
Study of Gaps in Adoption of Improved Orange Production Technologies in Maharashtra, India
Authors: Gedam Pravin C. , Padaria R. N.
Published: July 2023

Orange is the second most important fruit crop of Maharashtra. However, the productivity of fruit is found to be dwindling which might be due to the gaps in adoption of recommended technical know-how. Therefore, the study was undertaken to assess the adoption gaps of recommended orange technologies and the influence of socio-economic characteristics on the adoption gaps. The average gap was to the tune of 31.89 per cent.  As far as the association and influence of profile characteristic are concerned, it was found that size of land, source of credit, annual income, experience in farming and knowledge level of the orange growers, knowledge of GAP practices, mass media exposure and socio-economic status had negative correlation with adoption gaps (P= .01) whereas size of land holding and knowledge level, knowledge of GAP practices and annual income had negative influence on adoption gaps (P= .01). The study recommends that the proper extension and communication strategies should be developed for the dissemination of orange production technologies in state. Also, the public and private extension support systems are needed to be reoriented so that they can act more efficiently to provide necessary information about orange cultivation. The present study was conducted in Amravati and Nagpur districts of Maharashtra. An ‘ex post facto’ research design was used for the study. A sample of 200 orange growers was selected through stratified random sampling method for the study. The results of the study shows that most of the orange growers had gap in application of micro nutrient (44.76 %) followed by fruit drop measures (43.16 %) and plant protection measures (42.75%). The average gap was to the tune of 31.89 per cent.  As far as the association and influence of profile characteristic are concerned, it was found that  size of land, source of credit, annual income, experience in farming and knowledge level of the orange growers, knowledge of GAP practices, mass media exposure and socio-economic status had negative correlation with adoption gaps (P= .01) whereas size of land holding and knowledge level, knowledge of GAP practices and annual income had negative influence on adoption gaps (P= .01). The study recommends that the proper extension and communication strategies should be developed for the dissemination of orange production technologies in state. Also, the public and private extension support systems are needed to be reoriented so that they can act more efficiently to provide necessary information about orange cultivation.
Silicosis Among Immigrant Engineered Stone (Quartz) Countertop Fabrication Workers in California
Authors: Fazio Jane C. , Gandhi Sheiphali A. , Flattery Jennifer , Heinzerling Amy , Kamangar Nader , Afif Nawal , Cummings Kristin J. , Harrison Robert J.
Published: July 2023

Importance

Silicosis associated with inhalation of respirable crystalline silica among engineered stone countertop fabrication workers is an emerging health concern.

Objective

To describe clinical, socioeconomic, and occupational characteristics of patients diagnosed with silicosis associated with engineered stone in California.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This case series included reported cases of silicosis associated with fabrication of engineered stone countertops, as identified by statewide surveillance by the California Department of Public Health (2019-2022). Data analysis was performed from October 2022 to March 2023.

Exposures

Patient interviews and medical record abstractions were used to assess occupational exposure to respirable crystalline silica, including duration of work tenure and preventive measures undertaken.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Demographics, clinical characteristics, health care utilization, and clinical outcomes were obtained, including vital status, hypoxia, and lung transplant.

Results

This case series identified 52 male patients meeting inclusion criteria; median (IQR) age was 45 (40-49) years, and 51 were Latino immigrants. Ten (19%) were uninsured, and 20 (39%) had restricted-scope Medi-Cal; 25 (48%) presented initially to an emergency department. A delay in diagnosis occurred in 30 (58%) patients, most commonly due to alternative initial diagnoses of bacterial pneumonia (9 [30%]) or tuberculosis (8 [27%]). At diagnosis, 20 (38%) patients had advanced disease (progressive massive fibrosis) with severely or very severely reduced forced expiratory volume in 1 second in 8 (18%) and 5 (11%), respectively. Of the cases, 10 (19%) were fatal; median (IQR) age at death was 46 (38-51) years, and 6 patients (12%) were alive with chronic resting hypoxia. Eleven were referred for lung transplant: 3 underwent transplant with 1 fatality; 7 were declined transplant, with 6 fatalities; and 1 died prior to listing. Median (IQR) work tenure was 15 (10-20) years; 23 (45%) reported use of water suppression for dust mitigation, and 25 (48%) continued to fabricate stone after being diagnosed with silicosis.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this case series performed in California, silicosis associated with occupational exposure to dust from engineered stone primarily occurred among young Latino immigrant men. Many patients presented with severe disease, and some cases were fatal.
Comparison of Dietary Intake Before vs After Taxes on Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and Nonessential Energy-Dense Foods in Mexico, 2012 to 2018
Authors: Batis Carolina , Castellanos-Gutiérrez Analí , Sánchez-Pimienta Tania G. , Reyes-García Alan , Colchero M. Arantxa , Basto-Abreu Ana , Barrientos-Gutiérrez Tonatiuh , Rivera Juan A.
Published: July 2023

Importance

Tax evaluations have shown effectiveness in reducing purchases of taxed items. However, few studies have looked at changes in overall dietary intake according to national surveys.

Objective

To estimate the contribution of taxed and untaxed beverages and foods to dietary intake over time, and the nutritional dietary profile in total beverages and foods consumed.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used data from 3 National Health and Nutrition Surveys of a nationally representative sample of participants aged older than 1 year in Mexico from 2012 (pretax), 2016, and 2018 (posttax). Data were analyzed from September 2021 to December 2022.

Exposure

Taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages and nonessential energy-dense foods implemented since 2014.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The outcomes were the contribution of taxed and untaxed beverages to total beverage volume, the contribution of taxed and untaxed foods to total food energy, and the energy density and content of added sugars and saturated fats. Outcomes were assessed with 24-hour recalls (24HR) (2012 and 2016) and Food Frequency Questionnaires (FFQ) (2012, 2016, and 2018), and were adjusted by sociodemographic and macroeconomic variables.

Results

A total of 17 239 participants were analyzed from 2012, 18 974 from 2016, and 30 027 from 2018; approximately 50% were men, and approximately 75% lived in urban areas. According to 24HRs, the contribution of taxed beverages to total beverage volume changed −2.3 (95% CI, −4.4 to −0.2) percentage points from 2012 to 2016, while water increased. The contribution of taxed foods to total food energy changed −3.0 (95% CI, −4.2 to −1.8) percentage points, while untaxed whole grains, processed meats, other animal sources, and sugars and desserts increased. The content in total beverages of added sugars changed −1.1 kcal/100 mL (95% CI, −2.0 to −0.2), and in total foods, the content of added sugar changed −0.6 %kcal (95% CI, −1.0 to −0.2), saturated fat changed −0.8 %kcal (95% CI, −1.1 to −0.4), and energy density changed −9.8 kcal/100 g (95% CI, −13.8 to −5.8). Main results were consistent with the FFQ (up to 2018), with some differences in subgroups and nutritional components.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this study on 3 cross-sectional national dietary surveys are consistent with previous evaluations; after tax implementation, there was a decrease in the contribution of taxed items. Furthermore, some unhealthy untaxed items increased, but the content of unhealthful nutritional components, particularly added sugar, in overall beverages and foods decreased.
Multi‐Body Biomarker Entrapment System: An All‐Encompassing Tool for Ultrasensitive Disease Diagnosis and Epidemic Screening
Authors: Ren Qinqi , Jiang Leying , Ma Shenhui , Li Tong , Zhu Yang , Qiu Rui , Xing Yun , Yin Feng , Li Zigang , Ye Xiyang , Zhang Yaping , Zhang Min
Published: July 2023

Ultrasensitive identification of biomarkers in biofluids is essential for the precise diagnosis of diseases. For the gold standard approaches, polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, cumbersome operational steps hinder their point‐of‐care applications. Here, a bionic biomarker entrapment system (BioES) is implemented, which employs a multi‐body Y‐shaped tetrahedral DNA probe immobilized on carbon nanotube transistors. Clinical identification of endometriosis is successfully realized by detecting an estrogen receptor, ERβ, from the lesion tissue of endometriosis patients and establishing a standard diagnosis procedure. The multi‐body Y‐shaped BioES achieves a theoretical limit of detection (LoD) of 6.74 aM and a limit of quantification of 141 aM in a complex protein milieu. Furthermore, the BioES is optimized into a multi‐site recognition module for enhanced binding efficiency, realizing the first identification of monkeypox virus antigen A35R and unamplified detection of circulating tumor DNA of breast cancer in serum. The rigid and compact probe framework with synergy effect enables the BioES to target A35R and DNA with a LoD down to 991 and 0.21 aM, respectively. Owing to its versatility for proteins and nucleic acids as well as ease of manipulation and ultra‐sensitivity, the BioES can be leveraged as an all‐encompassing tool for population‐wide screening of epidemics and clinical disease diagnosis.
A Colorimetric Label‐Free Sensor Array of Metal–Organic‐Framework‐Based Fabry–Pérot Films for Detecting Volatile Organic Compounds and Food Spoilage
Authors: Zhan Kuo , Jiang Yunzhe , Qin Peng , Chen Yunlin , Heinke Lars
Published: July 2023

The unambiguous detection and classification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are crucial in many fields. For using VOC‐sensing to explore the alteration and spoilage of food, very inexpensive sensors are desired. Simple colorimetric sensors seem highly attractive for these applications. Here, a label‐free, colorimetric sensor array made of metal‐organic‐framework‐based (MOF‐based) Fabry‐Pérot (FP) films is presented where the signal read‐out is performed either by their optical spectra or by pictures taken with a smartphone camera. Exposing the FP‐MOF‐films to various VOCs causes a reversible shift of the photonic pattern, where the magnitude of the shift depends on the VOC type, its concentration, and the MOF structure. The application of machine‐ learning‐ algorithms on the sensor data allows to identify the VOCs with a high classification accuracy (92% at 100 ppm). It is shown that the sensor array read‐out can also be performed with a common smartphone camera, also precisely classifying the VOC analytes. Moreover, fresh and spoiled food, like milk and meat, is distinguished by its head space. Thus, the study presents a very inexpensive platform of small colorimetric sensors that allow determining the quality, alteration, and spoilage of food, and it may contribute to realizing smart labels and intelligent packaging.
Hydrogel‐Based Flexible Energy Storage Using Electrodes Based on Polypyrrole and Carbon Threads
Authors: Ruthes Jean G. A. , Deller Andrei E. , Pameté Emmanuel , Riegel‐Vidotti Izabel C. , Presser Volker , Vidotti Marcio
Published: July 2023

Developing new flexible and electroactive materials is a significant challenge to producing safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly energy storage devices. This study introduces a promising electrolyte system that fulfills these requirements. First, polypyrrole (PPy) nanotubes are electropolymerized in graphite‐thread electrodes using methyl orange (MO) templates in an acidic medium. The modification increases the conductivity and does not compromise the flexibility of the electrodes. Next, flexible supercapacitors are built using hydrogel prepared from poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/sodium alginate (SA) obtained by freeze–thawing and swollen with ionic solutions as an electrolyte. The material exhibits a homogenous and porous hydrogel matrix allowing a high conductivity of 3.6 mS cm−1 as‐prepared while displaying great versatility, changing its electrochemical and mechanical properties depending on the swollen electrolyte. Therefore, it allows its combination with modified graphite‐thread electrodes into a quasi‐solid electrochemical energy storage device, achieving a specific capacitance (Cs) value of 66 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1. Finally, the flexible device exhibits specific energy and power values of 19.9 W kg−1 and 3.0 Wh kg−1, relying on the liquid phase in the hydrogel matrix produced from biodegradable polymers. This study shows an environment friendly, flexible, and tunable quasi‐solid electrolyte, depending on a simple swell experiment to shape its properties according to its application.
Airflow‐Driven Triboelectric‐Electromagnetic Hybridized Nanogenerator for Biomechanical Energy Harvesting
Authors: Alves Tiago , Rodrigues Cátia , Callaty Carlos , Duarte Candido , Ventura João
Published: July 2023

The increasing use of wearable electronics calls for sustainable energy solutions. Biomechanical energy harvesting appears as an attractive solution to replace the use of batteries in wearables, as the body generates sufficient power to drive small electronics. In particular, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have emerged as a promising approach due to its lightweight and high power density. In this work, a TENG is hybridized with an electromagnetic generator (EMG) to harvest energy from the foot strike. An enclosed radial‐flow turbine is optimized and used to convert the foot‐strike low‐frequency linear movement into a higher‐frequency rotational motion (by a factor of ≈12). Besides increasing the motion frequency, the employed mechanism is physically robust and enables a continuous operation from irregular mechanical excitations. A single TENG unit operating in the freestanding mode generated an optimal power of 4.72 µW and transferred a short‐circuit charge of 2.3 nC. The TENG+EMG hybridization allows to power a digital pedometer even after the mechanical input stopped. Finally, the energy harvester is incorporated into a commercial shoe to power the same pedometer from foot walking. The obtained results validate the developed prototype ability to serve as a portable power source that can drive sensors and wearable electronics.
Highly Efficient C/N‐Fused Architecture for Narrowband Deep‐Blue Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence
Authors: Patil Vilas Venunath , Lim Junseop , Cho Sung Min , Lee Jun Yeob
Published: July 2023

Emitters with high color purity and small full width at half maximum (FWHM) have attracted considerable attention in recent years. In this work, a novel narrow‐emitting thermally activated delayed fluorescent (TADF) emitter, p‐FLDID, is developed through C/N fusion. The p‐FLDID is developed through core structure modification instead of peripheral substituent engineering. The design approach activates the TADF pathway and regulates emission in the deep‐blue region. The multiresonance (MR) type p‐FLDID emitter exhibits deep‐blue emission with a peak wavelength of 449 nm, FWHM of 26 nm, Stokes shift of 13 nm, and a photoluminescence quantum yield of ≈97%. The rigid structure of p‐FLDID not only restricts the molecular motion of the conjugated backbone structure but also results in a high horizontal emitting dipole orientation of 91%. The fabricated p‐FLDID‐based organic light‐emitting diode exhibits deep blue emission with an external quantum efficiency of 22.0%, a FWHM of 29 nm, and a CIEy of 0.073. The present work demonstrates that high‐efficiency TADF emission with a high‐purity blue color can be realized via C/N fusion.
Current Problems and Solutions for Solar‐Driven Interfacial Distillation from a Practical Perspective
Authors: Xu Ying , Zhang Qian , Ma Jiaxiang , Wang Yu , Xia Yan , Wang Wei
Published: July 2023

Solar‐driven interfacial distillation (SDID) is becoming an effective green technology for the treatment and reuse of unconventional water sources in the past few years. However, the established design and detection of SDID systems may involve different problems regarding practical application. Herein, through a series of literature research, this work summarizes the current evaluation parameters of SDID performance and the distilled water quality, highlights the importance of evaporation and distilled water collection rate, emphasizes that volatile organic compounds would become a new pollution feature in evaporation process, and suggests that insoluble salt crystallization and microbial corrosion should be considered during the design phase to ensure the constant use of the solar evaporators.
Melt‐Encoded‐Tags for Expanded Optical Readout in Digital PCR (METEOR‐dPCR) Enables Highly Multiplexed Quantitative Gene Panel Profiling
Authors: Liu Dong Dong , Muliaditan Daniel , Viswanathan Ramya , Cui Xu , Cheow Lih Feng
Published: July 2023

Digital PCR (dPCR) is an important tool for precise nucleic acid quantification in clinical setting, but the limited multiplexing capability restricts its applications for quantitative gene panel profiling. Here, this work describes melt‐encoded‐tags for expanded optical readout in digital PCR (METEOR‐dPCR), a simple two‐step assay that enables simultaneous quantification of a large panel of arbitrary genes in a dPCR platform. Target genes are quantitatively converted into DNA tags with unique melting temperatures through a ligation approach. These tags are then counted and distinguished by their melt‐curve profiles on a dPCR platform. A multiplexing capacity of M^N, where M is the number of resolvable melting temperature and N is the number of fluorescence channel, can be achieved. This work validates METEOR‐dPCR with simultaneous DNA copy number profiling of 60 targets using dPCR in cancer cells, and demonstrates its sensitivity for estimating tumor fraction in mixed tumor and normal DNA samples. The rapid, quantitative, and highly multiplexed METEOR‐dPCR assay will have wide appeal for many clinical applications.
Longitudinal rates of atrophy and tau accumulation differ between the visual and language variants of atypical Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Sintini Irene , Graff‐Radford Jonathan , Schwarz Christopher G. , Machulda Mary M. , Singh Neha Atulkumar , Carlos Arenn F. , Senjem Matthew L. , Jr Clifford R. Jack , Lowe Val J. , Josephs Keith A. , Whitwell Jennifer L.
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION

Atypical variants of Alzheimer's disease (AD) include the visual variant, known as posterior cortical atrophy (PCA), and the language variant, known as logopenic progressive aphasia (LPA). Clinically, rates of disease progression differ between them.

METHODS

We evaluated 34 PCA and 29 LPA participants. Structural magnetic resonance imaging and 18F‐flortaucipir positron emission tomography were performed at baseline and at 1‐year follow‐up. Rates of change in tau uptake and grey matter volumes were compared between PCA and LPA with linear mixed‐effects models and voxel‐based analyses.

RESULTS

PCA had faster rates of occipital atrophy. LPA had faster rates of left temporal atrophy and faster rates of tau accumulation in the parietal, right temporal, and occipital lobes. Age was negatively associated with rates of atrophy and tau accumulation.

DISCUSSION

Longitudinal patterns of neuroimaging abnormalities differed between PCA and LPA, although with divergent results for tau accumulation and atrophy.

HIGHLIGHTS

The language variant of Alzheimer's disease accumulates tau faster than the visual variant.

Each variant shows faster rates of atrophy than the other in its signature regions.

Age negatively influences rates of atrophy and tau accumulation in both variants.
A Glutathione‐Responsive Luminescence Sensor Based on Dual‐Emissive Persistent Luminescent Nanoparticles for Ratiometric Tumor Imaging
Authors: Gao Xue‐Mei , Gu Tian‐Yue , Chen Ke‐Lin , Zhao Xu , Yan Xiu‐Ping
Published: July 2023

Persistent luminescent nanoparticles (PLNP) have outstanding advantages in low‐background imaging. However, avoiding exogenous interference and false positive signals to achieve precise imaging is still a problem. In addition, it is also a great challenge to intelligently control the size of PLNP. Herein, we report an intelligent luminescence ratiometric sensor based on ultra‐small dual‐emissive PLNP for precise tumor‐targeted imaging. ZnGa2O4:Cr PLNP with a particle size of c.a. 5–10 nm and two emission peaks at 708 nm and 501 nm were firstly synthesized by thermal decomposition method along with systematical controlling the amount of chromium. PLNP‐Mal@Cy5.5 sensor was further constructed with a constant ratio (I708/I501) which is not interfered by exogenous factors such as detection time window and probe concentration. However, high concentrations of glutathione in the tumor microenvironment can specifically trigger the change of I708/I501 and cause the sensor to self‐assemble into clusters at tumor site, thus realizing long‐term retention and specificity imaging.
β‐Carboline Alkaloids Resist the Aggregation and Cytotoxicity of Human Islet Amyloid Polypeptide
Authors: Wang Yanan , Huo Yan , Wang Shao , Zheng Ting , Du Weihong
Published: July 2023

β‐Carboline alkaloids have a variety of pharmacological activities, such as antitumor, antibiosis and antidiabetes. Harmine and harmol are two structurally similar β‐carbolines that occur in many medicinal plants. In this work, we chose harmine and harmol to impede the amyloid fibril formation of human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), by a series of physicochemical and biochemical methods. The results indicate that harmine and harmol effectively prevent peptide fibril formation and alleviate toxic oligomer species. In addition, both small molecules exhibit strong binding affinities with hIAPP mainly through hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions, thus reducing the cytotoxicity induced by hIAPP. Their distinct binding pattern with hIAPP is closely linked to the molecular configuration of the two small molecules, affecting their ability to impede peptide aggregation. The study is of great significance for the application and development of β‐carboline alkaloids against T2DM.
Erosion‐Corrosion of Materials in Industrial Equipment: A Review
Authors: Rao Padmalatha , Mulky Lavanya
Published: July 2023

Erosion‐corrosion (E−C) is one of the most intense forms of metal degradation observed whenever a static metallic material is in contact with dynamic liquid. Efficiency of industrial plant mainly depends upon the condition of various components of the equipment. Collective mechanism of corrosion and erosion results in severe surface deterioration with heavy material loss due to synergistic effect. Erosion‐corrosion is mainly observed in the pipelines used in oil and gas industries, petroleum industries, heat exchanges and mainly in marine equipment. Free flowing saline water, containing different grades of sand particles adversely affect marine equipment. Numerous reports are available discussing the impact of erosion‐corrosion in chemical industries. Single report documenting all types of prototypes, comparative study of erosion corrosion of various engineering materials and control techniques is highly limited. This review gives vivid account of various types of prototypes, comparative study of erosion‐corrosion of various engineering materials, various factors affecting tribology of system and control techniques is a systematic way. Application of corrosion inhibitors appears to be an effective method to reduce erosion‐corrosion. This review highlights the importance of understanding the mechanism of erosion‐corrosion in industrial equipment and provides a succinct overview of erosion‐corrosion synergism.
Qualitätskontrolle im chemischen Recycling
Authors: Moos Simone Beatrice
Published: July 2023

Durch Techniken wie ICP‐OES und die Elementaranalyse kann die Qualität von Ausgangsstoffen und Endprodukten des chemischen Recyclings schnell und einfach kontrolliert werden. Die wichtigsten Elemente sind hierbei Cl, S, N, Na, Si, Fe, Pb, Ca und Hg.
Increased Oxygen Evolution Activity in pH‐Universal Electrocatalyst: Urea‐Modified NiFeCoCN Medium‐Entropy Alloy†
Authors: Lv Hongwei , Ye Zhiguo , Pei Feng , Peng Xinyuan , Huang Juntong , Li Duosheng , Jin Zhong
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

The kinetic process of a slow oxygen evolution reaction (OER) always constrains the efficiency of overall water electrolysis for H2 production. In particular, nonprecious metal electrodes for the OER have difficulty in possessing excellent electrocatalytic activity and stability in pH‐universal media simultaneously. In this work, urea is first used as a pore‐forming agent and active C/N source to fabricate a nanoporous NiFeCoCN medium‐entropy alloy (MEA) by high‐temperature sintering based on the nanoscale Kirkendall effect. The NiFeCoCN MEA achieves an overpotential of 432 mV at a current density of 10 mA·cm–2 and a lower Tafel slope of 52.4 mV·dec–1 compared to the IrO2/Ti electrode (58.6 mV·dec–1) in a 0.5 mol/L H2SO4 solution. In a 1 mol/L KOH solution, the NiFeCoCN MEA obtains an overpotential of 175 mV for 10 mA·cm–2 and a Tafel slope of 40.8 mV·dec–1, which is better than IrO2/Ni foam. This work proves a novel strategy to design and prepare nanoporous MEA materials with desirable C/N species, which provides promising prospects for the industrial production of H2 energy.
A General Enantioselective C−H Arylation Using an Immobilized Recoverable Palladium Catalyst
Authors: Salameh Nihad , Valentini Federica , Baudoin Olivier , Vaccaro Luigi
Published: July 2023

We herein report a general and efficient enantioselective C−H arylation of aryl bromides based on the use of BozPhos as the bisphosphine ligand and SP‐NHC‐PdII as recoverable heterogeneous catalyst. By exploiting the “release and catch” mechanism of action of the catalytic system, we used BozPhos as a broadly applicable chiral ligand, furnishing high enantioselectivities across all types of examined substrates containing methyl, cyclopropyl and aryl C−H bonds. For each reaction, the reaction scope was investigated, giving rise to 30 enantioenriched products, obtained with high yields and enantioselectivities, and minimal palladium leaching. The developed catalytic system provides a more sustainable solution compared to homogeneous systems for the synthesis of high added‐value chiral products through recycling of the precious metal.
Study of the efficiency of ozone synthesis in a point‐to‐plain discharge in N2–O2 mixtures
Authors: Pugach S. G. , H. V. Taran , D. V. Kudin , Pashchenko I. A.
Published: July 2023

The experimental results of the ozone synthesis and electrodynamic characteristics of the point‐to‐plane DC voltage corona discharge in N2–O2 mixtures at atmospheric pressure are presented. Four different modes of DC corona discharge were investigated: stationary mode of positive point‐to‐plane discharge, two non‐stationary (streamers) modes of positive point‐to‐plane discharge, and mode of negative point‐to‐plane discharge. It was shown that ozone synthesis highly depends on discharge modes and correlates with discharge conditions appropriated to dissociative attachment processes. In the case of positive point‐to‐plane discharge, ozone synthesis behavior is similar to that of the pulse component of the discharge current. It was shown that the mode with secondary streamers propagation is the most effective for ozone production among the four different modes of the point‐to‐plane DC corona discharge.
Understand ASD differences in women for accurate referral, diagnosis, and accommodation
Authors: Bedrossian Louise
Published: July 2023

Leo Kanner (1943) and Hans Asperger (1944), whose studies included only boys, initially and independently identified autism, noting three basic characteristics: (1) social difficulties, (2) communication problems, and (3) repetitive and restrictive activities. (see Leo Kanner, Autistic disturbances of affective contact, 2 Nervous Child 217 (1943); Hans Asperger, ‘Autistic psychopathy’ in childhood (U. Frith, trans. 1991)). But it was not until 1980 that the term “autism” appeared in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders‐III. Not until 1994 did Asperger's syndrome, or high‐functioning autism, appear in the DSM‐IV. And in the 2013 DSM‐5, Asperger's syndrome disappeared, merging into the integrated category of autism spectrum disorder.
Utilizing Google Bard to help students with disabilities
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2023

In March 2023, this column featured a conversation with ChatGPT and asked how disability services offices and students with disabilities could use the generative AI chatbot to further the success of such students (https://bit.ly/43X7kRW). In this month's column, we ask Google Bard similar questions.
Learn importance of interactive process for students seeking accommodations due to GAD
Authors: Masinter Michael R.
Published: July 2023

An ever‐growing number of students who present with a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) seek accommodations ranging from extended testing time and attendance flexibility to deadline extensions and roommate‐free rooms. Although Section 504 requires that disability services providers give each accommodation request individualized consideration through the interactive process, it does not require providers to grant accommodations simply because a health care provider has supplied a GAD diagnosis.
Learn when a school official's personal observations are considered education records
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2023

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act generally prohibits a college or university from disclosing personally identifiable information in a student's education record to a third party without consent. However, in an April 2023 guidance document, the Student Privacy Policy Office explained that “information that a school official obtains through personal knowledge or observation … is generally not protected by FERPA's limitations on the disclosure of education records, even if that information is also contained in an education record” (Student Privacy Policy Office, Guidance for School Officials on Student Health Records, April 12, 2023, https://bit.ly/3Nu74UK).
Research shows attending classes in person leads to greater academic success
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2023

There has long been a belief in academia that attending classes in person leads to greater academic success than nonattendance and/or reliance on recorded lectures. Researchers at the University of Bath set out to test this notion and identify other factors that influence student performance at the postgraduate level, such as whether a student has some type of disability.
Accommodations and Accessibility
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2023

An overview of the key topics faced by disability services providers with citations to noteworthy cases, statutes, regulations, and additional sources.
Sphingid caterpillars conspicuous patches do not function as distractive marks or warning against predators
Authors: Barrone Julia , Vidal Mayra C. , Stevenson Robert
Published: July 2023

To avoid predation by visual predators, caterpillars can be cryptic to decrease detectability or aposematic to warn predators of potential unpalatability. However, for some species, it is not clear if conspicuous patches are selected to avoid predation. For example, Pandora sphinx (Eumorpha pandorus, Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) caterpillars are assumed to be palatable and have both cryptic (green, brown) and conspicuous (orange, red) color morphs. Five lateral, off‐white to yellow patches on either side may serve as a warning for predators or to draw attention away from the caterpillar's form to function as distractive marks. We conducted a field study in three temperate fragmented forests in Massachusetts to investigate the potential utility of E. pandorus coloration and conspicuous patches. Using four plasticine caterpillar prey model treatments, green and red with and without lateral conspicuous patches, we tested the effects of color, patch patterning, and seasonality on attack rates by a variety of taxa. We found that 43% of the prey models (n = 964) had bite marks by an array of predators including arthropods (67.5%), birds (18.2%), rodents (11.5%), and large mammals (2.8%). Arthropods as dominant predators align with conclusions from previous studies of prey models placed near ground level. Attack rates peaked for arthropods in late August and early September but were more constant across trials for vertebrates. Arthropods, a heterogeneous group, as indicated by the variety of bite marks, showed significantly higher attack rates on green colored prey models and a tendency of higher attack on solid (non‐patch patterned) prey models. Vertebrates, more visually oriented predators, had significantly higher attack rates on red colored prey models and patch patterned prey models. Thus, our results did not suggest that conspicuous patch patterning reduced predation and therefore, we did not find support for the distractive mark hypothesis or warning hypothesis. Further, our study shows clear contrasting interpretations by different predators regarding visual defensive strategies.
Review: Numerical simulation approaches of crystalline‐Si photovoltaics
Authors: Sugiura Takaya , Nakano Nobuhiko
Published: July 2023

This study reviews the current methods of numerical simulations for crystalline‐Si (c‐Si) photovoltaic (PV) cells. The increased demand for PV devices has led to significant improvements in the performance of solar cell devices. The main contribution comes from c‐Si solar cells, which constitute 90% of the industry. Numerical analysis is effective for predicting, developing, and optimizing cell performances as the cell structures become more complex and include several parameters. However, conventional methods cannot simulate improved device structures with complex configurations. Additional physics is necessary to evaluate these cell structures. This study introduces methods for evaluating these cell structures using physical modeling and highlights the latest examples of simulations of c‐Si solar cells.
Content of nitrate and nitrite in commercial and self‐made beetroot juices and the effect of storage temperature
Authors: Bescos Raul , Rollason Mark L. , Davies Tanisha S. , Casas‐Agustench Patricia
Published: July 2023

Popularity of beetroot juice (BJ) is growing due to its high inorganic nitrate content and its potential physiological benefits. However, the content of is not indicated in most commercial BJs and it can be affected by seasonal changes and storage conditions. This study analyzed the content of and nitrite in five and two commercial and self‐made BJs, respectively, that were purchased in the summer and winter periods. The effect of storage temperature (20°C, 4°C, and −20°C) and pH was also analyzed. In nonconcentrated BJs, the content was 34 ± 20% (p = .075) in the winter than in the summer. was fully degraded in self‐made BJ after 3 days at 20°C. This effect was attenuated by 78% and 82% when it was kept at 4°C and −20°C, respectively. The addition of lemon juice (5%) to self‐made BJ was another useful approach to avoid degradation for 3 days when it was kept at 20°C. Regarding , self‐made BJ had higher concentration (0.097 ± 0.01 mg/mL) compared to commercial BJs (<0.1 mg/mL; p = .001). The pH of self‐made BJ was higher (6.3 ± 0.1) compared to commercial BJs (4.5 ± 0.3; p = .001). These results suggest that the content of in nonconcentrated BJs can substantially differ across the year and this is an important factor to take into account when recommending BJs to promote some of its potential physiological benefits.
The impact of rivastigmine on post‐surgical delirium and cognitive impairment; a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Massoudi Nilofar , Mohit Babak , Fathi Mohammad , Nooraei Navid , Hannani Kia Kazemzadeh , ArianNik Mohsen
Published: July 2023

Background

Delirium is an acute and transient disorder of brain function that often occurs in post‐surgical patients. Rivastigmine is a cholinesterase inhibitor drug that has been proposed as an adjuvant drug in recent years, still, despite significant theoretical evidence, few clinical studies have been performed on its impact on delirium.

Aim

Due to the widespread use of cholinesterase inhibitors in pediatric and adult surgery, the present study aims to investigate the impact of Rivastigmine as a cholinesterase inhibitor on delirium after radical surgery.

Methods

In this randomized double‐blind clinical trial, a hundred recruited patients were randomly assigned to either Rivastigmine (n = 50) or placebo (n = 50) groups, and we measured post‐operative impact on delirium, by Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) score, and cognitive impairment, by the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE). Our univariate and multivariate logistical regression models assessed this hypothesized impact.

Results

Treatment with Rivastigmine was significantly associated with reduced day one post‐op delirium, as measured by CAM score (Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.35, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.11 to 0.97, p = 0.05), and cognitive impairment, as measured by MMSE (OR = 0.25, 95% CI 0.1 to 0.59, p = 0.0022). These associations became stronger after controlling for age, blood loss, and post‐op blood sodium levels: Delirium (OR = 0.23, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.92, p = 0.05), cognitive impairment (OR = 0.12, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.42, p = 0.000178).

Conclusion

The significant result of our randomized clinical trial is that pre‐op Rivastigmine treatment may be associated with a substantial drop in patients experiencing post‐op delirium and post‐op cognitive impairment.
Epidemiologic transition of lung cancer mortality in Italy by sex, province of residence and birth cohort (1920‐1929 to 1960‐1969)
Authors: Catelan Dolores , Biggeri Annibale , Bucchi Lauro , Manno Valerio , Pappagallo Marilena , Stoppa Giorgia , Grippo Francesco , Frova Luisa , Zamagni Federica , Crialesi Roberta , Minelli Giada
Published: July 2023

Space‐time analysis of mortality risk is useful to evaluate the epidemiologic transitions at the subnational level. In our study, we analysed the death certificate records for lung cancer in Italy in 1995‐2016, obtained from the Italian National Institute of Statistics. Our objective was to investigate the spatial‐temporal evolution of lung cancer mortality by sex and province of residence (n = 107) using the birth cohort as relevant time axis. We built Bayesian space‐time models with space‐time interactions. Among males (n = 554 829), mortality peaked in the 1920‐1929 cohort, followed by a generalised decline. Among females (n = 158 619), we found novel original evidence for a peak in the 1955‐1964 cohort, equivalent to a 35‐year delay, with a downward trend being observed thereafter. Over time, the documented north‐south decreasing mortality gradient has been replaced by a west‐east decreasing gradient. Naples has become the province at highest risk in Italy, both among males and females. This pattern is consistent with an epidemiologic transition of risk factors for lung cancer to the south‐west of the country and raises concern, because 5‐year age‐standardised net survival from the disease in this geographic area is lower than in northern and central Italy. The variability of mortality rates among provinces has changed over time, with an increasing homogeneity for males and an opposite trend for females in the more recent birth cohorts. These unprecedented observations provide evidence for a profound spatio‐temporal transition of lung cancer mortality in Italy.
In France, the organization of perinatal care has a direct influence on the outcome of the mother and the newborn: Contribution from a French nationwide study
Authors: Levaillant Mathieu , Garabédian Charles , Legendre Guillaume , Soula Julien , Hamel Jean‐François , Vallet Benoît , Lamer Antoine
Published: July 2023

Objective

To investigate maternal and neonatal outcomes after a delivery in France in 2019, according to hospital characteristics and the impact of distance and time of travel on mother and newborn.

Methods

All parturients above 18 years of age who delivered in 2019 and were identified in the French health insurance database were included, with their newborns, in this retrospective cohort study. Main outcome measures were Severe Maternal Morbidity score and the Neonatal Adverse Outcome Indicator (NAOI).

Results

Among the 733 052 pregnancies included, 10 829 presented a severe maternal morbidity (1.48%) and 77 237 had a neonatal adverse outcome (10.4%). Factors associated with an unfavorable maternal or neonatal outcome were Obstetric Comorbidity Index, primiparity, and cesarean or instrumental delivery. Prematurity was associated with less severe maternal morbidity but more neonatal adverse outcomes. Time of travel above 30 min was associated with a higher NAOI rate.

Conclusions

Results suggest the efficiency of regionalization of perinatal care in France, although a difference in both outcomes persists according to unit volume, suggesting the need for a further step in concentrating perinatal care. Perinatal care organization should focus on mapping the territory with high‐level, high‐volume maternity throughout the territory; this suggests closing down high‐volume units and improving low‐volume ones to maintain coherent mapping.
Bacterial extracellular vesicles: A position paper by the microbial vesicles task force of the Chinese society for extracellular vesicles
Authors: Wen Minghui , Wang Jingyu , Ou Zihao , Nie Guangjun , Chen Ye , Li Min , Wu Zhiwei , Xiong Sidong , Zhou Hongwei , Yang Zifeng , Long Gang , Su Jiacan , Liu Han , Jing Yingying , Wen Zhenke , Fu Yuxuan , Zhou Tieli , Xie Hui , Guan Wenda , Sun Xi , Wang Zhang , Wang Juan , Chen Xunxun , Jiang Linglei , Qin Xiaolin , Xue Yicong , Huang Mei , Huang Xinyue , Pan Ruoru , Zhen Haojun , Du Yuqi , Li Qianbei , Huang Xixin , Wu Yuanyuan , Wang Pingping , Zhao Kening , Situ Bo , Hu Xiumei , Zheng Lei
Published: July 2023

Recently, the interest in extracellular vesicles released by bacteria has rapidly increased. Bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs) have been involved in bacteria‐bacteria and bacteria‐host interactions, which strengthen health or bring about various pathologies. However, BEV separation, characterization, and functional studies require the establishment of guidelines and further optimization in order to stimulate the development of science in BEV research and a following successful transformation into clinical applications. This position paper is authored by the Microbial Vesicles Task Force of the Chinese Society for Extracellular Vesicles (CSEV) composed of experienced medical laboratory specialists, microbiologists, virologists, biologists and material biologists who are actively engaged in BEV research. Herein, we present a concise description of BEV research and discover challenges and critical gaps in current BEV‐based analyses for clinical applications. Finally, we also offer suggestions and considerations to improve experimental reproducibility and interoperability in BEV research to promote progress in the field.
The social determinants of mental health and professional counseling: A call to action
Authors: Lenz A. Stephen , Lemberger‐Truelove Matthew E.
Published: July 2023

We live in a complex and interconnected world with individual‐ and community‐level development and well‐being shaped by numerous variables. Given this multi‐deterministic nature of development, counselors are called to integrate the social determinants of mental health (SDMH) into key activities including clinical assessment, case conceptualization, treatment planning, prevention programming, education and training, and scientific inquiry. We discuss the consistency between the humanistic roots of the counseling profession with its values for developmental, preventative, and wellness‐oriented care and practices associated with the integration of the SDMH. We also provide a supportive rationale for the integration of SDMH into counseling practice through review of several key concepts: (a) upstream, midstream, and downstream influences on mental health; (b) the social gradient of mental health; (c) integrating population‐level perspectives on mental health and mental illness; (d) the functional roles of protective and risk factors; and (e) embodying a justice‐ and equity‐focused orientation.