bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous quantitative analysis of 11 constituents in Viticis Fructus by HPLC‐HRMS and HPLC‐DAD combined with chemometric methods
Authors: Wu Tingfen , Ma Zhiguo , Zhang Ying , Wu Menghua , Cao Hui
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Viticis Fructus is the dried ripe fruit of Vitex trifolia L. (VTF) or V. trifolia subsp. litoralis Steenis (VTLF). Different botanical sources of the same herbal medicines may have different clinical efficacies, but few studies have reported the comparative identification of VTF and VTLF.

Objectives

To establish a high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the simultaneous assay of 11 constituents in Viticis Fructus, to compare the chemical compositions of VTF and VTLF, and to identify chemical markers for the discrimination and quality evaluation of the two botanical origins of Viticis Fructus.

Methodology

An HPLC‐diode array detection (DAD)‐high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) method was developed for the simultaneous separation and quantification of 11 constituents in 21 batches of Viticis Fructus samples from different sources in China. Moreover, chemometrics were performed to compare and discriminate VTF and VTLF samples.

Results

The results from 11 batches of VTF and 10 batches of VTLF were compared for 11 components, of which 3,4‐dicaffeoylquinic acid and 3,5‐dicaffeoylquinic acid were identified and quantified in Viticis Fructus for the first time. The quantitative analysis showed significantly higher chlorogenic acid and casticin contents in VTLF than in VTF, and the chemometric analysis indicated that chlorogenic acid and casticin were responsible for the significant differences between VTF and VTLF; these two compounds might be used as chemical markers to distinguish the two original plant sources of Viticis Fructus.

Conclusions

The present work provides useful information for understanding the chemical differences between VTF and VTLF. This work also provides feasible methods for the quality evaluation and discrimination of herbal medicines originating from multiple botanical sources.
Do problem‐solving skills help mitigate emotional distress through perceived control and self‐efficacy in parents of children with cancer?
Authors: Levesque Ariane , Béliveau Julianne , Ogez David , Marcil Valérie , Curnier Daniel , Laverdière Caroline , Sinnett Daniel , Péloquin Katherine , Sultan Serge
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Parents of children with cancer face psychological challenges that can result in significant distress. It has been found that problem‐solving (PS) could mitigate emotional distress (ED) in this population, but mechanisms of this relation are poorly understood. This study aimed to assess whether there is a link between PS and ED through perceived control and self‐efficacy.

Methods

We included 119 parents (67 mothers, 52 fathers, including 50 couples) whose child was diagnosed with cancer. We evaluated whether PS was associated with ED through perceived control and self‐efficacy in couples of parents.

Results

We found no direct association between PS and ED (β = −0.01, p = 0.92). Our results indicated a significant indirect effect between ED and PS with perceived control as the intermediary variable (β = −0.24, p < 0.001, 95% CI [−0.41, −0.11]). However, there was no indirect association between ED and PS with self‐efficacy as the intermediary variable (β = −0.04, p = 0.26, 95% CI [−0.11, 0.09]). The effect size was large in magnitude (R2 = 0.59 for ED).

Conclusion

The mitigating role of PS on ED is better explained by an enhanced experience of control than by improved self‐efficacy. Future interventions should directly target the action mechanism behind PS and ED in both mothers and fathers by targeting their perceived control.
The 2 min step test: A reliable and valid measure of functional capacity in older adults post coronary revascularisation
Authors: Chow Jaclyn Jie Ling , Fitzgerald Claire , Rand Sarah
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Exercise training is the central component in Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR). A baseline assessment of aerobic capacity is paramount for exercise prescription and safety. The Two‐Minute Step Test (2MST) has been used to measure aerobic capacity in healthy older adults. However, the reliability and validity of the 2MST in older adults post‐coronary revascularisation (CRV) is unknown.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted in a single CR centre. Two 2MSTs and one six‐minute walk test (6MWT) were completed in a single session. The 2MST measurements were recorded by two raters for each individual. The six‐minute walk distance (6MWD) and 2MST steps recorded by both raters were analysed to determine the relationship and agreement between measurements.

Results

Thirty one participants with a median (IQR) age of 66 (62,73) years old were included in the study post CRV. Strong positive correlations were found between steps achieved during the 2MSTs and the 6MWD (r = 0.87, 95% CI 0.82–0.91, p < 0.0001). Excellent inter‐rater reliability was demonstrated between raters during the 2MSTs (ICC = 0.999–1.000, p = 0.000). Excellent relative test‐retest reliability was demonstrated in both 2MSTs recorded by both raters (ICC = 0.927–0.934, p = 0.000). However, absolute test‐retest reliability may have been limited by a learning effect between repeated 2MSTs.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that the 2MST may be used as an alternative to the 6MWT as an outcome measure for aerobic capacity in older adults post‐CRV. However, a practice trial is recommended at baseline to account for a learning effect.
Protective effects of 4‐geranyloxy‐2,6‐dihydroxybenzophenonel on DSS‐induced ulcerative colitis in mice via regulation of cAMP/PKA/CREB and NF‐κB signaling pathways
Authors: Wang Mingqiang , Li Yanzhen , Su Jianhui , Bai Jingyan , Zhao Zhongxiang , Sun Zhanghua
Published: November 2022

Hypericum sampsonii Hance has traditionally been used to treat enteritis and diarrhea. As one of the main benzophenones isolated from H. sampsonii, 4‐geranyloxy‐2,6‐dihydroxybenzophenonel (4‐GDB) has been shown to possess anti‐inflammatory effects. However, the therapeutic effect and potential mechanisms of 4‐GDB in ulcerative colitis (UC) remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the role of 4‐GDB in UC using a dextran sulfate sodium‐induced colitis mouse model. Intragastric administration of 4‐GDB (20 mg/kg/day) for 8 days significantly attenuated colonic injury, reduced the expression of inflammatory mediators, and improved colonic barrier function in mice with colitis. Furthermore, in vivo and in vitro experiments indicated that 4‐GDB could activate cAMP/PKA/CREB and inhibit the NF‐κB pathway. Collectively, 4‐GDB may be a potential agent for treating UC by regulating the cAMP/PKA/CREB and NF‐κB pathways.
Hypoxia‐induced pulmonary hypertension upregulates eNOS and TGF‐β contributing to sex‐linked differences in BMPR2+/R899X mutant mice
Authors: Erewele Ejehi O. , Castellon Maricela , Loya Omar , Marshboom Glenn , Schwartz Andrew , Yerlioglu Kayla , Callahan Christopher , Chen Jiwang , Minshall Richard D. , Oliveira Suellen D.
Published: November 2022

Dysfunctional bone morphogenetic protein receptor 2 (BMPR2) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) have been largely implicated in the pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH); a life‐threatening cardiopulmonary disease. Although the incident of PAH is about three times higher in females, males with PAH usually have a worse prognosis, which seems to be dependent on estrogen‐associated cardiac and vascular protection. Here, we evaluated whether hypoxia‐induced pulmonary hypertension (PH) in humanized BMPR2+/R899X loss‐of‐function mutant mice contributes to sex‐associated differences observed in PAH by altering eNOS expression and inducing expansion of hyperactivated TGF‐β‐producing pulmonary myofibroblasts. To test this hypothesis, male and female wild‐type (WT) and BMPR2+/R899X mutant mice were kept under hypoxic or normoxic conditions for 4 weeks, and then right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH) were measured. Chronic hypoxia exposure elevated RVSP, inducing RVH in both groups, with a greater effect in BMPR2+/R899X female mice. Lung histology revealed no differences in vessel thickness/area between sexes, suggesting RVSP differences in this model are unlikely to be in response to sex‐dependent vascular narrowing. On the other hand, hypoxia exposure increased vascular collagen deposition, the number of TGF‐β‐associated α‐SMA‐positive microvessels, and eNOS expression, whereas it also reduced caveolin‐1 expression in the lungs of BMPR2+/R899X females compared to males. Taken together, this brief report reveals elevated myofibroblast‐derived TGF‐β and eNOS‐derived oxidants contribute to pulmonary microvascular muscularization and sex‐linked differences in incidence, severity, and outcome of PAH.
Sources of anisotropy in the Reynolds stress tensor in the stable boundary layer
Authors: Gucci Federica , Giovannini Lorenzo , Stiperski Ivana , Zardi Dino , Vercauteren Nikki
Published: November 2022

Data collected by 12 sonic anemometers over the Plaine Morte Glacier (Swiss Alps) during the Snow Horizontal Arrays Turbulence Study are used to investigate sources of anisotropy in the Reynolds stress tensor for stable boundary layers. A coarse‐graining approach is applied to evaluate transfers of kinetic energy across scales, and internal gravity waves (IGWs) are detected with a suitable criterion. Both approaches are combined with a classification of anisotropy based on the barycentric map of 1 min Reynolds stress tensors. A wind‐speed threshold is found that discriminates between regimes with a different dominant topology of the Reynolds stress tensor. One‐component and isotropic states are frequent for low wind speed and strong stratification, whereas two‐component axisymmetric states dominate the high wind speed regime with strong vertical shear. Results suggest that the presence of IGWs is mostly responsible for one‐component states, and additionally influences the relative amount of kinetic and potential energy in the perturbation field. To provide supporting evidence, a complementary analysis of a clean IGW detected during a field campaign in Dumosa (Australia) is presented. This case study highlights how waves contribute to drive the Reynolds stress tensor towards the one‐component limit. Cases are shown where a linear detrending procedure may be effective in filtering out waves and avoid their spurious contributions in turbulence statistics.
Evaluating classifier predictive performance in multi‐class problems with balanced and imbalanced data sets
Authors: Vanacore Amalia , Pellegrino Maria Sole , Ciardiello Armando
Published: November 2022

A major issue in classification problems arises when dealing with class imbalance, which requires the adoption of a suitable performance measure able to handle imbalanced data sets. This paper introduces the Balanced and its weighted version Balanced as classifier performance measures suitable for both balanced and imbalanced data sets. The performances of the proposed measures are compared against those of other well‐known performance measures through an empirical comparison using several algorithms and data sets. Moreover, the applicability of Balanced is showcased through an illustrative example dealing with steel plate faults classifications, where class imbalance typically occurs due to non‐common defects which, though rare, may seriously impact steel quality.
Active fault‐tolerant control based on sparse recovery diagnosis: The twin wind turbines case
Authors: Makni Mariem , Haidar Ihab , Barbot Jean‐Pierre , Plestan Franck
Published: November 2022

This article deals with the design of an active fault‐tolerant control (AFTC) for a twin wind turbine consisting of two wind turbines mounted on the same tower. When one of the turbines is impacted by electrical faults, precisely a stator inter‐turn short circuits fault or a demagnetization fault, the sparse recovery diagnosis method is used for the detection, isolation and estimation of the active fault. An AFTC law is designed for the supervision of the faulty machine. Both methods, concerning diagnosis and control, are based on homogeneous theory and consequently converge in finite time. Simulation results highlighting the relevance of the proposed approach are also presented.
Drone‐mounted audio‐visual deterrence of bats: implications for reducing aerial wildlife mortality by wind turbines
Authors: Werber Yuval , Hareli Gadi , Yinon Omer , Sapir Nir , Yovel Yossi
Published: November 2022

Wind energy is a major and rapidly expanding renewable energy source. Horizontal‐axis wind turbines, the main tool in this industry, induce mortality in flying animals and consequently bring about conservation concerns and regulatory restrictions. We utilized a unique combination of RADAR, LIDAR and ultrasonic acoustic recorders to test the utility of a novel technology meant to prevent wind turbine‐related mortality in bats. Our drone‐mounted deterrent device produces a pulsating combination of strong auditory and visual signals while moving through the air. LIDAR was used to assess the device's impact below its flight altitude and RADAR to assess its influence above its flight altitude. Continuous acoustic recordings from ground level to ~400 m above‐ground‐level were used to monitor bat activity in the research site. We recorded the nightly altitudinal distributions of multiple bat species throughout the experiment. Analysis revealed a significant change in activity while the deterrent was flying compared to baseline conditions. We also recorded a significant ~40% decrease below and a significant ~50% increase above the deterrent's flight altitude during its operation compared to the post‐flight control. The tested technology is independent of wind farm activities and does not require modifying wind turbine form or operation procedures. The device differs from previously proposed solutions by being dynamic – moving in the airspace and emitting constantly changing signals – thus decreasing the probability of animal habituation. Our findings suggest that the deterrent could dramatically decrease wind turbine‐related mortality by deterring bats from approaching rotor‐swept airspace. Focused implementation in conditions where bat activity and energy production are in conflict may provide a practical, cost‐effective mortality mitigation solution compared to current alternatives. Thus, our results should be considered by the wind‐turbine industry and environmental monitoring and animal conservation organizations, as well as by regulatory agencies, when pursuing alleviation of wind turbine‐related mortality.
Time‐series remote sensing of rice paddy expansion in the Yellow River Delta: Towards sustainable ecological conservation in the context of water scarcity
Authors: Huang Chong , Zhang Chenchen
Published: November 2022

Large river deltas are usually ecologically important wetland habitats, but also fertile agricultural exploitation areas, creating a conflict of long‐running substantial interest between agricultural expansion and wetland conservation. Over the past several years, large‐scale cultivation of water‐consuming rice has been growing rapidly in the semi‐arid climate of the Yellow River Delta (YRD). Timely monitoring of rice cultivation dynamics is of great significance for sustainable ecological conservation of the delta, which has insufficient freshwater resources. This study proposed a stratified metrics‐based method that integrates statistical spectral indices and phenological metrics at different growing stages to improve the accuracy of rice paddy classification in areas where rice and wetlands coexist. We applied the method to time‐series Sentinel‐1/2 images to produce annual rice paddy maps of the YRD from 2016 to 2021. Together with rice paddy data from 2011 to 2015 from Statistical Yearbooks of Dongying Bureau of Statistics, we investigated the expansion dynamics over the past decade and in this paper discuss the advantages and disadvantages of rice cultivation expansion over wetland ecosystem conservation. Rapid expansion of rice cultivation intensifies water conflicts, and adversely affects wetland restoration in the YRD. Considering the important ecological services of rice paddies as alternative habitats, we argue for maintaining a reasonable scale of rice paddies and optimizing their distribution as a potential solution to achieving the overall sustainable conservation of the YRD in the context of water scarcity.
The impact of countries' culture norms and innovations on their adaptive capacity to climate change
Authors: Abdelzaher Dina M. , Martynov Aleksey
Published: November 2022

Innovation has been discussed as a mechanism to help markets adapt to the consequences of climate change but the adoption of innovation is shaped by a set of formal and informal institutions, one of which is national culture norms. In this empirical study, we examine the impact of innovation on adaptive capacity to climate change then investigate how national culture norms enhance or weaken this relationship, using a database of 42 countries across the period of 2009–2020. We find that innovation has a positive effect on countries' adaptive capacity to climate change and the culture dimensions of Uncertainty Avoidance and Future Orientation moderate this relationship, such that countries scoring high on Uncertainty Avoidance and Future Orientation are better able to channel innovation into the adaptive capacity to climate change. Furthermore, while we found that Uncertainty Avoidance and Future Orientation had a direct positive impact on adaptive capacity, the dimension of institutional collectiveness had no significant impact. Implications for policy makers are discussed.
Practical implementation of the partial ordering continual reassessment method in a Phase I combination‐schedule dose‐finding trial
Authors: Mozgunov Pavel , Jaki Thomas , Gounaris Ioannis , Goddemeier Thomas , Victor Anja , Grinberg Marianna
Published: November 2022

There is a growing medical interest in combining several agents and optimizing their dosing schedules in a single trial in order to optimize the treatment for patients. Evaluating at doses of several drugs and their scheduling in a single Phase I trial simultaneously possess a number of statistical challenges, and specialized methods to tackle these have been proposed in the literature. However, the uptake of these methods is slow and implementation examples of such advanced methods are still sparse to date. In this work, we share our experience of proposing a model‐based partial ordering continual reassessment method (POCRM) design for three‐dimensional dose‐finding in an oncology trial. In the trial, doses of two agents and the dosing schedule of one of them can be escalated/de‐escalated. We provide a step‐by‐step summary on how the POCRM design was implemented and communicated to the trial team. We proposed an approach to specify toxicity orderings and their a‐priori probabilities, and developed a number of visualization tools to communicate the statistical properties of the design. The design evaluation included both a comprehensive simulation study and considerations of the individual trial behavior. The study is now enrolling patients. We hope that sharing our experience of the successful implementation of an advanced design in practice that went through evaluations of several health authorities will facilitate a better uptake of more efficient methods in practice.
Bayesian additive regression trees for multivariate skewed responses
Authors: Um Seungha , Linero Antonio R. , Sinha Debajyoti , Bandyopadhyay Dipankar
Published: November 2022

This paper introduces a nonparametric regression approach for univariate and multivariate skewed responses using Bayesian additive regression trees (BART). Existing BART methods use ensembles of decision trees to model a mean function, and have become popular recently due to their high prediction accuracy and ease of use. The usual assumption of a univariate Gaussian error distribution, however, is restrictive in many biomedical applications. Motivated by an oral health study, we provide a useful extension of BART, theskewBARTmodel, to address this problem. We then extendskewBARTto allow for multivariate responses, with information shared across the decision trees associated with different responses within the same subject. The methodology accommodates within‐subject association, and allows varying skewness parameters for the varying multivariate responses. We illustrate the benefits of our multivariateskewBARTproposal over existing alternatives via simulation studies and application to the oral health dataset with bivariate highly skewed responses. Our methodology is implementable via theRpackageskewBART, available on GitHub.
Director departure following political ideology (in)congruence with an incoming CEO
Authors: Busenbark John R. , Bundy Jonathan , Chin M.K.
Published: November 2022

Research Summary

Political ideologies play a critical role in how individuals view the world and their social interactions. Management scholars have theorized about how executives' politics may influence their firms' activities, but organizational research has not yet fully embraced the political science logic that bidirectional ideological alignment is perhaps the most influential factor in crafting social circles. We incorporate this perspective by theorizing about how political ideology (in)congruence between an incoming CEO and directors impacts whether those directors retain their seat or depart from the board. Coalescing political research with the socio‐behavioral view of directorships, we argue that ideological incongruence is related to departure and congruence enhances retention. In post hoc analyses, we also uncover preliminary evidence that the salience of ideological incongruence supersedes congruence in director departure.

Managerial Summary

Executives' political ideologies have a profound impact on the organization, so it is imperative to understand whether the political views of those in the upper echelons play a role in cultivating who sits at the apex of the firm. In this study, we find that directors are inclined to remain on the board when they share a political ideology with an incoming CEO, but that they are also apt to depart from their positions when their political views do not align with the incoming CEO. In intriguing quantitative analyses, we also unearth that, like most individuals in society, directors are perhaps more repelled by a CEO with an opposing political ideology than they are attracted to a CEO with similar political leanings.
Probing Local Force Propagation in Tensed Fibrous Gels
Authors: Goren Shahar , Levin Maayan , Brand Guy , Lesman Ayelet , Sorkin Raya
Published: November 2022

Fibrous hydrogels are a key component of soft animal tissues. They support cellular functions and facilitate efficient mechanical communication between cells. Due to their nonlinear mechanical properties, fibrous materials display non‐trivial force propagation at the microscale, that is enhanced compared to that of linear‐elastic materials. In the body, tissues are constantly subjected to external loads that tense or compress them, modifying their micro‐mechanical properties into an anisotropic state. However, it is unknown how force propagation is modified by this isotropic‐to‐anisotropic transition. Here, force propagation in tensed fibrin hydrogels is directly measured. Local perturbations are induced by oscillating microspheres using optical tweezers. 1‐point and 2‐point microrheology are combined to simultaneously measure the shear modulus and force propagation. A mathematical framework to quantify anisotropic force propagation trends is suggested. Results show that force propagation becomes anisotropic in tensed gels, with, surprisingly, stronger response to perturbations perpendicular to the axis of tension. Importantly, external tension can also increase the range of force transmission. Possible implications and future directions for research are discussed. These results suggest a mechanism for favored directions of mechanical communication between cells in a tissue under external loads.
Medium‐Entropy‐Alloy FeCoNi Enables Lithium–Sulfur Batteries with Superb Low‐Temperature Performance
Authors: Pang Xiaowan , Geng Haitao , Dong Shaowen , An Baigang , Zheng Shumin , Wang Bao
Published: November 2022

Lithium‐sulfur battery suffers from sluggish kinetics at low temperatures, resulting in serious polarization and reduced capacity. Here, this work introduces medium‐entropy‐alloy FeCoNi as catalysts and carbon nanofibers (CNFs) as hosts. FeCoNi nanoparticles are in suit synthesized in cotton‐derived CNFs. FeCoNi with atomic‐level mixing of each element can effectively modulate lithium polysulfides (LiPSs), multiple components making them promising to catalyze more LiPSs species. The higher configurational entropy endows FeCoNi@CNFs with extraordinary electrochemical activity, corrosion resistance, and mechanical properties. The fractal structure of CNFs provides a large specific surface area, leaving room for volume expansion and Li2S accumulation, facilitating electrolyte wetting. The unique 3D conductive network structure can suppress the shuttle effect by physicochemical adsorption of LiPSs. This work systematically evaluates the performance of the obtained Li2S6/FeCoNi@CNFs electrode. The initial discharge capacity of Li2S6/FeCoNi@CNFs reaches 1670.8 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C under ‐20 °C. After 100 cycles at 0.2 C, the capacity decreases from 1462.3 to 1250.1 mAh g−1. Notably, even under ‐40 °C at 0.1 C, the initial discharge capacity of Li2S6/FeCoNi@CNFs still reaches 1202.8 mAh g−1. After 100 cycles at 0.2 C, the capacity retention rate is 50%. This work has important implications for the development of low‐temperature Li‐S batteries.
Functional CNTs@EMIM+‐Br− Electrode Enabling Polysulfides Confining and Deposition Regulating for Solid‐State Li‐Sulfur Battery
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Pengfei , Zhang Menghang , Pan Hui , He Xuewei , He Ping , Zhou Haoshen
Published: November 2022

With an extremely high theoretical energy density, poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)‐based solid‐state lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries are emerging as one of the most feasible and safest battery storage systems. However, the long‐term cycling performance is severely impeded by polysulfides (Li2Sn, n = 4–8) shuttling and terrible electrode passivation from the electronic insulating Li2S. Here, a novel cathode through chemically grafted 1‐Ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide (EMIM+‐Br−) to carbon nanotube (CNTs) for PEO‐based Li‐S batteries is reported (CNTs@EMIM‐Br/S). Concretely, bi‐functional mediator EMIM+‐Br− not only inhibits the polysulfides shuttling by strong chemical interactions via EMIM+, but also facilitates the electrochemical kinetics for promoting the formation of 3D particulate Li2S through high donor anion (Br−). Satisfactorily, dual‐function CNTs@EMIM‐Br/S cathode exhibits high sulfur utilization with the capacity of up to 1298 mAh g−1, and keeps high capacity retention of 80.2% at 0.2 C after 350 cycles, exceeding that of many reported PEO‐based solid‐state Li‐S batteries. This work will open a new door for rationally designed architecture to enable the practical applications of advanced Li‐S batteries.
SMART Silly Putty: Stretchable, Malleable, Adherable, Reusable, and Tear‐Resistible Hydrogels
Authors: Chen Mingtao , Murphy Brendan B. , Wang Yuchen , Vitale Flavia , Yang Shu
Published: November 2022

Cell engineering, soft robotics, and wearable electronics often desire soft materials that are easy to deform, self‐heal readily, and can relax stress rapidly. Hydrogels, a type of hydrophilic networks, are such kind of materials that can be made responsive to environmental stimuli. However, conventional hydrogels often suffer from poor stretchability and repairability. Here, hydrogels consisting of boronic ester dynamic covalent bonds in a double network of poly(vinyl alcohol)/boric acid and chitosan are synthesized, which demonstrate extreme stretchability (up to 310 times the original length), instant self‐healing (within 5 s), and reusability and inherent adhesion. Their instant stress relaxation stems from a low activation energy of the boronic ester bond exchange (≤20 kJ mol−1) and contributes to the extreme stretchability and self‐healing behaviors. Various water‐dispersible additives can be readily incorporated in the hydrogels via hand kneading for potential applications such as soft electronics, bio‐signal sensing, and soft artificial joints.
Ni Single Atoms on MoS2 Nanosheets Enabling Enhanced Kinetics of Li‐S Batteries
Authors: Dong Chenxu , Zhou Cheng , Li Yan , Yu Yongkun , Zhao Tianhao , Zhang Ge , Chen Xinhui , Yan Kaijian , Mai Liqiang , Xu Xu
Published: November 2022

The practical application of Li‐S batteries is seriously hindered due to its shuttle effect and sluggish redox reaction, which requires a better functional separator to solve the problems. Herein, polypropylene separators modified by MoS2 nanosheets with atomically dispersed nickel (Ni‐MoS2) are prepared to prevent the shuttle effect and facilitate the redox kinetics for Li‐S batteries. Compared with pristine MoS2 nanosheets, Ni‐MoS2 nanosheets exhibit both excellent adsorption and catalysis performance for overcoming the shuttle effect. Assembled with this novel separator, the Li‐S batteries exhibit an admirable cycling stability at 2 C over 400 cycles with 0.01% per cycle decaying. In addition, even with a high sulfur loading of 7.5 mg cm−2, the battery still provides an initial capacity of 6.9 mAh cm−2 and remains 5.9 mAh cm−2 after 50 cycles because of the fast convention of polysulfides catalyzed by Ni‐MoS2 nanosheets, which is further confirmed by the density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Therefore, the proposed strategy is expected to offer a new thought for single atom catalyst applying in Li‐S batteries.
Zero‐knowledge‐based distributed auditing protocol
Authors: Far Saeed Banaeian , Asaar Maryam Rajabzadeh , Haghbin Afrooz
Published: November 2022

Blockchain‐based data outsourcing has attracted a huge deal of attention in recent years. However, key management and reliance on pre‐defined or randomly‐selected third‐party auditors (TPAs) are still challenging owing to refusing to collaborate or break auditing policies. Additionally, it is impossible to store secrets in smart contracts (SCs) for signing or auditing. Thus, in the present study, a zero‐knowledge (ZK)‐based distributed auditing protocol (DAP) is provided. In this protocol, a user‐based key generation mechanism offers users security against curious authorities based on no TPA causing them to reveal no knowledge about under‐auditing data. Based on Pointcheval's and Sanders's signature scheme, as a ZK‐based randomizable signature applied in an SC to handle the auditing process, the proposed DAP provides confidential transactions and user accountability. Evaluation indicates that the proposed ZK‐based DAP is efficient for the user side and it is the fastest DAP in the blockchain.
Characterization of Physicochemical Properties of Hypochlorite Oxidized Starches and Their Suitability for Making Starch Noodles
Authors: Shi Runjie , Tang Ning , Zhang Xiaojun , Cheng Yongqiang
Published: November 2022

The effects of hypochlorite oxidation on physicochemical properties of mung bean, potato, and pea starches, and the suitability of oxidized starches for making starch noodles are investigated. The formation of carboxyl groups in starches during the oxidation is more favorable under milder alkaline conditions (pH 8). The oxidized starches show a decrease in viscosity but an increase in conclusion temperature and gelatinization enthalpy due to the introduction of carboxyl groups. Moreover, the observed increase or decrease is highly correlated with the carboxyl contents of the oxidized starches. In addition, the introduction of carboxyl groups can effectively retard the starch retrogradation as indicated by changes in the light transmittance. The quality of the starch noodles can be improved by adding oxidized starches, and 5% is an appropriate amount for making starch noodles with respect to the overall quality.
Maximum ground level concentration for Gaussian plume formula using standard and Briggs methods
Authors: Essa Khaled S. M. , El Saied Sawsan I. M.
Published: November 2022

This work aims to determine the maximum concentration and downwind distance at the earth's surface in two methods Briggs and standard for two conditions are slightly unstable and neutral by using the Gaussian equation at different effective heights and wind seeped at (8.9, 8.5 and 8 m/s) under lateral and vertical dispersion coefficient measurement.
Mycoplasmafelisabscess infection and lymphadenomegaly in a cat
Authors: Travail Victoria , Peak Kerry
Published: November 2022

A 1‐year 4‐month‐old, male, neutered domestic longhair was presented for investigation of lameness and lethargy. Pyrexia and swelling of the left antebrachium was noticed on clinical examination. Despite treatment with various antibiotics (cefovecin, then amoxicillin and marbofloxacin), the pyrexia and lameness persisted. A computed tomography scan revealed a cavitary lesion and diffuse soft tissue swelling in the left axilla/thoracic wall, with associated moderate to marked lymphadenomegaly of multiple lymph nodes. Aspirates from the cavitary lesions revealed neutrophilic inflammation, and the lymph nodes were consistent with reactive lymphoid hyperplasia and neutrophilic lymphadenitis. Routine aerobic and anaerobic bacterial cultures were negative. AMycoplasmaculture was positive, and theMycoplasma felispolymerase chain reaction was positive at a high level (Ct 16.6). The patient was subsequently treated with doxycyline and the clinical signs resolved. The difficulty of culturingMycoplasmaspp. should raise the awareness of veterinarians to perform specific culture or polymerase chain reaction forMycoplasmaspp.
Green stormwater infrastructure: A critical review of the barriers and solutions to widespread implementation
Authors: Heidari Bardia , Randle Sayd , Minchillo Dean , Jaber Fouad H.
Published: November 2022

Rapid urbanization, aging infrastructure, and climate change impacts have put a strain on existing stormwater drainage systems. One commonly acknowledged solution to relieve such stress is Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI). Interest in GSI technology has been growing. However, the level of implementation in many areas around the world lags behind the interest level. This study aims to critically review the body of literature from the last decade to determine the main barriers to wide adoption and the offered solutions to overcome them. Based on a review of 92 peer‐reviewed journal articles published between 2012 and 2022, we classify barriers and solutions into six categories: socio‐cultural, financial, institutional and governance, legislative and regulatory, technical, and biophysical. Based on observations and conclusions from the reviewed articles, we recommend the following pillars and considerations for more GSI adoption: increasing awareness and outreach programs; enhancing knowledge and data co‐production and dissemination; acknowledging interdependency and context‐specificity of many of the challenges and solutions; prioritizing integrated and participatory watershed planning; overcoming institutional path‐dependencies; prioritizing innovative solutions; giving specific consideration to maintenance protocols; considering the role of public entities; and actively engaging with communities.

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Planning Water

Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and Awareness
Framing Police Encounters: The Dramaturgy of Authority
Authors: Bielejewski Aaron
Published: November 2022

A key feature of police work, and arguably the defining feature of the entire institution of policing, is the police encounter: any of the variety of situations in which police officers engage in face-to-face encounters with non-police individuals. Encounters between police and citizens take place in public and in private, at work and at home, during the day and at night; in contexts which can be familiar and routine to police or unique and problematic. They can involve individuals known to the police or strangers who only become known to the officers within the context of the encounter.
On the Gleason-Kahane-Żelazko Theorem for Associative Algebras
Authors: Roitman Moshe , Sasane Amol
Published: November 2022

The classical Gleason-Kahane-Żelazko Theorem states that a linear functional on a complex Banach algebra not vanishing on units, and such that $$\Lambda (\textbf{1})=1$$

Λ
(
1
)
=
1

, is multiplicative, that is, $$\Lambda (ab)=\Lambda (a)\Lambda (b)$$

Λ
(
a
b
)
=
Λ
(
a
)
Λ
(
b
)

for all $$a,b\in A$$

a
,
b
∈
A

. We study the GKŻ property for associative unital algebras, especially for function algebras. In a GKŻ algebra A over a field of at least 3 elements, and having an ideal of codimension 1, every element is a finite sum of units. A real or complex algebra with just countably many maximal left (right) ideals, is a GKŻ algebra. If A is a commutative algebra, then the localization $$A_{P}$$

A
P

is a GKŻ-algebra for every prime ideal P of A. Hence the GKŻ property is not a local-global property. The class of GKŻ algebras is closed under homomorphic images. If a function algebra $$A\subseteq {\mathbb {F}}^{X}$$

A
⊆

F

X

over a subfield $${\mathbb {F}}$$
F
of $${\mathbb {C}}$$
C
, contains all the bounded functions in $${\mathbb {F}}^{X}$$

F

X

, then each element of A is a sum of two units. If A contains also a discrete function, then A is a GKŻ algebra. We prove that the algebra of periodic distributions, and the unitisation of the algebra of distributions with support in $$(0,\infty )$$

(
0
,
∞
)

satisfy the GKŻ property, while the algebra of compactly supported distributions does not.
Comprehensive monitoring of a special mixture of prominent endocrine disrupting chemicals in human urine using a carefully adjusted hydrolysis of conjugates
Authors: Denghel Heike , Göen Thomas
Published: November 2022

Many xenobiotics were identified as possible endocrine disruptors during the last decades. Structural analogy of these substances to natural hormones may lead to agonists or antagonists of hormone receptors. For a comprehensive human biomonitoring of such substances, we developed a simple, reliable, and highly sensitive method for the simultaneous monitoring of the parameters bisphenol A, triclosan, methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, benzophenone-1, benzophenone-3, 3,5,6-trichloropyridin-2-ol, p-nitrophenol, genistein, and daidzein in urine. Thereby, optimization of the enzymatic hydrolysis and the use of β-glucuronidase from E. coli K12 as well as sulfatase from Aerobacter aerogenes ensures the acquisition of intact analytes without cleavage of ester bonds among parabens. Validation of the method revealed limits of detection between 0.02 and 0.25 µg/L as well as limits of quantification between 0.08 and 0.83 µg/L. Thereby, the use of analyte-free surrogate matrix for calibration and control material influenced the sensitivity of the procedure positively. Furthermore, excellent precision in and between series was observed. Good absolute and relative recoveries additionally proved the robustness of the multimethod. Thus, the procedure can be applied for exploring the exposome to these prominent endocrine disruptors in the general population.

Graphical Abstract
Fixing N2 into cyanophycin: continuous cultivation of Nostoc sp. PCC 7120
Authors: Trentin Giulia , Piazza Francesca , Carletti Marta , Zorin Boris , Khozin-Goldberg Inna , Bertucco Alberto , Sforza Eleonora
Published: November 2022

Two diazotrophic cyanobacteria (Anabaena cylindrica PCC 7122 and Nostoc sp. PCC 7120) were cultivated to produce cyanophycin, a nitrogen reserve compound, under nitrogen fixing conditions. In preliminary continuous experiments, Nostoc sp. was shown to be more efficient, accumulating a higher amount of cyanophycin and showing a greater capability to fix atmospheric nitrogen in the biomass (67 mgN d−1 of fixed nitrogen per liter of culture). The operating conditions were then optimized to maximize the cyanophycin productivity: the effect of incident light intensity, residence time and nitrogen availability were investigated. Nitrogen availability and/or pH played a major role with respect to biomass production, whereas phosphorus limitation was the main variable to maximize cyanophycin accumulation. In this way, it was possible to achieve a stable and continuous production of cyanophycin (CGP) under diazotrophic conditions, obtaining a maximum cyanophycin productivity of 15 mgCGP L−1 d−1.

Key points

• Diazotrophic cyanobacteria produce stable amount of cyanophycin in continuous PBR.

• Nostoc sp. proved to be more efficient in producing cyanophycin than Anabaena sp.

• P deprivation is the major variable to increase cyanophycin productivity in continuous.
Imputation Strategies for Clustering Mixed-Type Data with Missing Values
Authors: Aschenbruck Rabea , Szepannek Gero , Wilhelm Adalbert F. X.
Published: November 2022

Incomplete data sets with different data types are difficult to handle, but regularly to be found in practical clustering tasks. Therefore in this paper, two procedures for clustering mixed-type data with missing values are derived and analyzed in a simulation study with respect to the factors of partition, prototypes, imputed values, and cluster assignment. Both approaches are based on the k-prototypes algorithm (an extension of k-means), which is one of the most common clustering methods for mixed-type data (i.e., numerical and categorical variables). For k-means clustering of incomplete data, the k-POD algorithm recently has been proposed, which imputes the missings with values of the associated cluster center. We derive an adaptation of the latter and additionally present a cluster aggregation strategy after multiple imputation. It turns out that even a simplified and time-saving variant of the presented method can compete with multiple imputation and subsequent pooling.
Sutureless versus conventional deep sclerectomy for management of open angle glaucoma
Authors: Kotb Mohamed Sabry , El Gharbawy Shahenda Ahmed , Abdelrahman Ahmed Mostafa , Makled Hebatalla Samir
Published: November 2022

Introduction

To compare sutureless deep sclerectomy to conventional deep sclerectomy regarding their lowering effect on intraocular pressure (IOP) in cases with open-angle glaucoma.

Methods

This is a prospective interventional randomized comparative study that included 60 eyes of 50 patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) who were indicated for surgical intervention. Patients were recruited from the glaucoma subspecialty clinic of the Cairo University teaching hospital and were divided into two groups: group A (underwent sutureless deep sclerectomy) and group B (underwent conventional deep sclerectomy).

Results

Both surgeries showed significant reduction of IOP all through the study period: in group A, mean reduction was 71.37%, 53.35%, 50.3%, and 44.33% at 1st day, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months respectively, and in group B, mean reduction was 57.62%, 40.63%, 37.41%, and 31.68% at 1st day, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months, respectively. Comparison between percentage of reduction in both groups showed no statistically significant difference. Also, use of anti-glaucoma medications dropped significantly at 6 months postoperatively in both groups with no significant difference between the 2 groups. Regarding reported complications, 12.9% in group A and 10.3% in group B presented with non-serious complications. One month postoperatively, UBM detected non-functioning blebs in 6.4% of group A and 3.4% in group B. Other cases with non-functioning blebs were detected at 3 and 6 months postoperatively, and all cases were managed.

Conclusion

Sutureless deep sclerectomy seems to be a safe and effective modification, with significant IOP reduction in POAG.
Die Subventionierung des Gaspreises als Alternative zur Abschöpfung von „Übergewinnen“
Authors: Höffner Eckhard , Schubert Hermann
Published: November 2022

Im Zusammenhang mit der Steigerung der Preise für Energie und den bei einzelnen Unternehmen stark gestiegenen Gewinnen sind Forderungen nach einer Übergewinnsteuer laut geworden. Die Bundesregierung spricht von Zufallsgewinnen, im Englischen „windfall“ (Fallobst) profits. Das Verständnis von diesen Gewinnen als außergewöhnlich und unverdient beruht wesentlich darauf, dass sie nicht durch eigene Leistung erwirtschaftet seien, sondern Folge der Preissteigerung im Zusammenhang mit dem Angriff Russlands auf die Ukraine und der Steigerung der Gaspreise. Die Profitierenden gelten einerseits als Krisenoder Kriegsgewinner:innen, während auf der anderen Seite die hohen Energiekosten als eine wesentliche Ursache für eine drohende schwere Rezession und Inflation (Stagflation) ausgemacht werden; ganz abgesehen von der Unsicherheit hinsichtlich der Energieversorgung auf dem bisherigen Niveau.
Eliminating the Wavefunction from Quantum Dynamics: The Bi-Hamilton–Jacobi Theory, Trajectories and Time Reversal
Authors: Holland Peter
Published: November 2022

We observe that Schrödinger’s equation may be written as two real coupled Hamilton–Jacobi (HJ)-like equations, each involving a quantum potential. Developing our established programme of representing the quantum state through exact free-standing deterministic trajectory models, it is shown how quantum evolution may be treated as the autonomous propagation of two coupled congruences. The wavefunction at a point is derived from two action functions, each generated by a single trajectory. The model shows that conservation as expressed through a continuity equation is not a necessary component of a trajectory theory of state. Probability is determined by the difference in the action functions, not by the congruence densities. The theory also illustrates how time-reversal symmetry may be implemented through the collective behaviour of elements that individually disobey the conventional transformation ($$\mathrm{T}$$
T
) of displacement (scalar) and velocity (reversal). We prove that an integral curve of the linear superposition of two vectors can be derived algebraically from the integral curves of one of the constituent vectors labelled by integral curves associated with the other constituent. A corollary establishes relations between displacement functions in diverse trajectory models, including where the functions obey different symmetry transformations. This is illustrated by showing that a ($$\mathrm{T}$$
T
-obeying) de Broglie-Bohm trajectory is a sequence of points on the (non-$$\mathrm{T}$$
T
) HJ trajectories, and vice versa.
Algorithm for Determination of Cutoff Frequency of Noise Floor Level for Terahertz Time-Domain Signals
Authors: Reyes-Reyes E.S. , Carriles-Jaimes R. , Castro-Camus E.
Published: November 2022

The frequency-dependent signal-to-noise ratio of terahertz time-domain signals is a relevant source of uncertainty for parameters measured with it. It also limits the total usable bandwidth of such signals. In the great majority of cases, the processes to establish the limits of this usable bandwidth are determined based on the experience of the user. Therefore, it is desirable to develop a procedure to automate this calculation. In this work, a method to estimate the bandwidth of terahertz time-domain signals is presented. Different spectra were analyzed, showing the potential of the algorithm in the calculation of cutoff frequencies which delimits the usable bandwidth.