bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virtual screening of carboxylic acid reductases for biocatalytic synthesis of 6‐aminocaproic acid and 1,6‐hexamethylenediamine
Authors: Shi Kun , Li Ju‐Mou , Zhang Zhi‐Jun , Chen Qi , Xu Jian‐He , Yu Hui‐Lei
Published: May 2023

The key precursors for nylon synthesis, that is, 6‐aminocaproic acid (6‐ACA) and 1,6‐hexamethylenediamine (HMD), are produced from petroleum‐based feedstocks. A sustainable biocatalytic alternative method from bio‐based adipic acid has been demonstrated recently. However, the low efficiency and specificity of carboxylic acid reductases (CARs) used in the process hampers its further application. Herein, we describe a highly accurate protein structure prediction‐based virtual screening method for the discovery of new CARs, which relies on near attack conformation frequency and the Rosetta Energy Score. Through virtual screening and functional detection, five new CARs were selected, each with a broad substrate scope and the highest activities toward various di‐ and ω‐aminated carboxylic acids. Compared with the reported CARs, KiCAR was highly specific with regard to adipic acid without detectable activity to 6‐ACA, indicating a potential for 6‐ACA biosynthesis. In addition, MabCAR3 had a lower Km with regard to 6‐ACA than the previously validated CAR MAB4714, resulting in twice conversion in the enzymatic cascade synthesis of HMD. The present work highlights the use of structure‐based virtual screening for the rapid discovery of pertinent new biocatalysts.
Preoperative symptoms of depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment in glioma patients: A cerebral perfusion CT study
Authors: Wang Ke , Fu Wanrui , Li Shenjie , Chen Lizhen , Gan Yajie , Xiang Wei , Chen Ligang , Zhou Jie
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Glioma patients have varying degrees of psychiatric symptoms, which severely affect the quality of life of patients and their families. The present study investigated the correlation between preoperative psychiatric symptoms and local cerebral perfusion parameters of in glioma patients.

Patients and methods

The depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment (CI) scores of 39 patients were assessed separately, and all of the patients underwent a preoperative perfusion computed tomography scan.

Results

This study found that: (1) The incidence of preoperative symptoms of depression, anxiety, and CI was 46.15%, 48.72%, and 25.64%, respectively. (2) Cerebral blood volume (CBV) (lesion‐sided [LS] occipital lobe white matter [WM] and parietal lobe WM and normal‐sided temporal lobe WM), permeability surface (PS) (LS temporal lobe gray matter [GM] and parietal lobe WM) in the depression group were significantly decreased (p < .05). (3) CBV (LS occipital lobe WM), cerebral blood flow (LS parietal lobe GM, centrum ovale and frontal lobe WM and normal‐sided frontal lobe WM, temporal lobe WM and parietal lobe WM), and mean transition time (MTT) (normal‐sided frontal lobe WM and temporal lobe WM) in the anxiety group were significantly increased (p < .05). (4) CBV (LS temporal lobe GM), MTT (LS anterior limb of internal capsule), and PS (LS thalamus) in the CI group were significantly increased (p < .05).

Conclusion

This study showed that glioma patients had different levels of psychological distress in glioma patients before surgery, which may be related to the changes in brain perfusion caused by the tumor.
Clinical features of ischemic stroke in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation combined with intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis
Authors: Wu Ning , Wang Xinli , Jia Shuai , Cui Xiaomei , Wang Yaozhen , Li Jian , Zhang Xiaojun , Wang Yanqiang
Published: May 2023

Background

Nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) and intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) are major causes of ischemic stroke. Relatively few studies have focused on the risk factors and clinical features of ischemic stroke caused by NVAF combined with ICAS.

Method

We retrospectively evaluated NVAF and/or ICAS in patients with acute ischemic stroke admitted within 72 h after stroke. All patients with acute ischemic stroke underwent diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), computed tomography angiography (CTA), and/or digital subtraction angiography (DSA). NVAF was detected by routine electrocardiogram or 24‐h Holter examination, Doppler echocardiography, and contrast echocardiography of the right heart.

Results

Among the 635 enrolled patients, NVAF, ICAS, and NVAF+ICAS were diagnosed in 170 (26.77%), 255 (40.16%), and 210 (33.07%) patients, respectively. Patients in the NVAF+ICAS group were older (p < .001), specifically aged ≥75 years (p < .001). The admission time of the NVAF+ICAS group was shorter (p < .001) than that of the ICAS group. The admission NIHSS score of the NVAF group was higher than that of the NVAF+ICAS group (p < .001). HsCRP, NTpro‐BNP, and LEVF levels were significantly different among the three groups (p < .001). NVAF+ICAS ischemic stroke occurred mainly in the right hemisphere (52.4%).

Conclusion

NVAF with ICAS ischemic stroke is more likely to occur in older patients. Infarctions occurred mainly in the right cerebral hemisphere. Neurological deficits in NVAF are more severe than those in NVAF combined with ICAS and in simple ICAS ischemic strokes. HsCRP, LEVF, andNTpro‐BNP seem to be closely associated with NVAF+ICAS ischemic stroke.
Like a shot‐through manubrium: A rare presentation of skeletal tuberculosis
Authors: Fujiwara Tomohiro , Yanai Hiroyuki , Hagiya Hideharu
Published: May 2023

A 22‐year‐old Vietnamese woman presented with anterior chest swelling. Computed tomography revealed an osteolytic lesion in the manubrium, whereas MRI showed an extra‐osseous expansion. A needle biopsy showed granuloma formation, whereas a 3‐week mycobacterial culture indicated Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Manubrium/sternum involvement in tuberculosis is extremely rare but should be considered.
A rare case of soft tissue sarcoma in the supraclavicular region: A case report
Authors: Kato Ronald , Kibudde Solomon , Mwondha Yusuf , Farah Starlin
Published: May 2023

Sarcomas of the head and neck account for about 2% of all head and neck malignancies in adults. The median age at diagnosis is 50–54 years with a slight male predominance. The rarity of these sarcomas and lack of prospective trials make it difficult to reach valid conclusions. A 36‐year‐old woman was referred to our hospital because of an expanding non‐pulsatile mass in the right supraclavicular fossa with associated numbness and paresthesia of the right forearm. The patient reported that the mass had gradually enlarged for the past 5 months. She had no history of trauma or any chronic illnesses. A physical examination revealed a mass measuring approximately 7 cm × 5 cm above the right clavicle with no palpable thrill or bruit. Ultrasound‐guided biopsy was done and the histology report revealed soft tissue cells, fatty cells, and skeletal muscle cells; no tumor cells were identified. Magnetic resonance angiogram studies were made and revealed a highly vascularized supraclavicular mass. Under a multidisciplinary approach, the mass was resected. Head and neck sarcomas are relatively rare tumors and those of the head and neck account for about 2% of all head and neck malignancies and 4%–10% of all sarcomas in adults. The main histologic subtypes are rhabdomyosarcoma, osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and angiosarcoma.
Persistent level 1 hypoglycemia due to hypothyroidism and underlying Neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Nguyen Hoang , Nguyen Quynh Thu , Thet Zeyar , Hoang Thanh D.
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

Hypoglycemia in non‐diabetic patients is rare and may be due to various etiologies. It is important to recognize hypoglycemia early and appropriately manage hypoglycemia in patients with neurofibromatosis 1 and hypothyroidism.

Non‐diabetic hypoglycemia is not common and can be seen in certain conditions like Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). We report a rare case of 66‐year‐old man with hypothyroidism and NF1 who developed a persistent level 1 hypoglycemia.
A difficult case of Hodgkin lymphoma mimicking tuberculosis in a young female patient: A case report
Authors: Roumi Jamal Bakri , Farho Mohamad Ali , Hariri Mohamad Moafak , Khoury Abdullah
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

Due to overlapping clinical symptoms, it may be difficult to distinguish between Hodgkin lymphoma and tuberculosis. Repeated investigations, especially biopsy and histopathological examination, may be helpful to establish a correct diagnosis. Herein, we present a case of Hodgkin's lymphoma misdiagnosed as tuberculosis so we always need evidence‐based medicine in our medical life.

Distinguishing between Hodgkin's Lymphoma and tuberculosis is challenging. A 23‐year‐old patient has been diagnosed with tuberculosis; based on clinical and radiological findings. After the therapy, her condition worsened. Cervical lymphadenopathy was detected. A biopsy was performed and the diagnosis was classical Hodgkin lymphoma. After the treatment, the patient improved significantly.
Temporal lobe hemorrhage as a complication of HSV encephalitis: a case report
Authors: Rijal Ashes , Chaudhary Sharmila , Shah Sangam , Itani Asmita , Suryabanshi Anil , Thapa Sangharsha
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

This case underlined the importance of having high suspicion for lobar hemorrhage as a rare but deadly complication of herpes simplex virus encephalitis and shone light upon the added complexity it poses on management on an already deadly disease.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) encephalitis is the most common type of sporadic encephalitis that inflicts high rates of morbidity and mortality. Differentiating a progressing encephalitis syndrome from a lobar hemorrhage as a complication presents a challenge and requires great vigilance and insight on part of the treating physician.
Pembrolizumab induced pericardial tamponade: A case report
Authors: Uczkowski Dariusz , Ashraf Hamza , Sekhri Arunabh , Samad Arbaz
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

The occurrence of a large pericardial effusion is not a commonly noted adverse event associated with pembrolizumab and our report demonstrates that a rapid development can be diagnosed with close monitoring and triage to acute medical settings.

Pembrolizumab is an immune checkpoint inhibitor used in various types of cancers. Pericardial tamponade is a rare side effect reported in only very few case reports. Early recognition and therapeutic intervention is vital in all cases. We report a case of a 54‐year‐old male with Stage 3 lung adenocarcinoma who developed cardiac tamponade secondary to pembrolizumab and subsequently required pericardial window.
Direct and transfer hydrogenation of furfural over MOF‐derived Pd‐Cu@C catalysts
Authors: Xia Xinxin , Gao Yuxin , Li Pei , Fu Mengyao , Zhu Lingyi , Li Cuiqin , Li Feng
Published: May 2023

Owing to the self‐reducing ability of palladium acetate in solutions, an ethanol solution containing Pd0 particles was prepared and coated in‐situ into copper metal–organic framework (Cu‐MOF), forming Pd@Cu‐MOF in a coated structure. The Pd@Cu‐MOF was reduced under N2 or H2 to form carbon‐coated Pd‐Cu@C. The pyrolysis and carbonization of Cu‐MOF and the reduction of Cu2+ were studied. The Cu‐MOF under either N2 or H2 was pyrolyzed and carbonized, but the Cu2+ reduction mechanisms were different. The high‐temperature carbothermic reduction of Cu2+ under N2 produced Cu0, but during low‐temperature reduction under H2, the reducing H2 reduced Cu2+ to Cu0. Furfural hydrogenation experiments showed that compared with H2, the Pd‐Cu@C prepared under N2 reduction displayed higher furfural hydrogenation activity. The catalytic activity of Pd‐Cu@C prepared from in‐situ Pd0 coating was higher than the Pd/Cu@C prepared from the impregnation method. With i‐propanol as the solvent, the catalytic hydrogenation of furfural under H2 consisted of direct catalytic hydrogenation with molecular hydrogen as the hydrogen source and catalytic transfer hydrogenation with i‐propanol as the hydrogen donor. The catalytic activity of direct catalytic hydrogenation is higher than the catalytic transfer hydrogenation.
An Indium Synthetic Etioporphyrin for Organic Electronics: Aggregation and Photoconductivity in Thin Films
Authors: Koifman Oskar I. , Rychikhina Ekaterina D. , Travkin Vlad V. , Sachkov Yury I. , Stuzhin Pavel A. , Somov Nikolay V. , Yunin Pavel A. , Zhabanov Yuriy A. , Pakhomov Georgy L.
Published: May 2023

A new complex of indium(III)chloride with etioporphyrin‐I was synthesized and characterized. As with naturally occurring extraligated etioporphyrins, the InCl‐EtioP−I spectrum in solution has a very strong B‐band and a more than an order of magnitude weaker Q‐band, but this difference diminishes in solid films of InCl‐EtioP−I obtained by thermal evaporation in vacuum. In a solid, molecules have a tight convex‐convex arrangement in a 2D double layered structure with interplane distance of 3.066 Å. The conductivity of films can easily be activated by the action of temperature or light. In the cells with symmetrical lateral contacts the photocurrent exceeds the dark current by about three orders of magnitude, with the contribution of photons in the Q‐band range being greater than expected from the experimental or calculated absorption spectrum. The Q‐bands contribute significantly to the photovoltaic effect in the ITO/InCl‐EtioP−I/Al sandwich cells. Such cells show an untypically strong signal in the photodiode regime, which yields the spectral detectivity of 10^12 Jones.
Reducing the generation time in winter wheat cultivars using speed breeding
Authors: Schoen Adam , Wallace Sydney , Holbert Meghan Fisher , Brown‐Guidera Gina , Harrison Stephen , Murphy Paul , Sanantonio Nicholas , Van Sanford David , Boyles Richard , Mergoum Mohamed , Rawat Nidhi , Tiwari Vijay
Published: May 2023

Reducing generation time is critical to achieving the goals of genetic gain in important crops like wheat (Triticum aestivum). Speed breeding (SB) has been shown to considerably reduce generation times in crop plants. Unlike spring wheat cultivars, winter wheat varieties require typically 6–9 weeks of cold treatment, called vernalization, for flowering which extends the generation time for the development of improved winter wheat cultivars. Here, we optimized the SB method using a set of 48 diverse soft red winter wheat (SRWW) cultivars by testing vernalization duration, light and temperature requirements, and the viability of seeds harvested after different durations post‐anthesis under extended daylight conditions. We have found that using a 22‐h setting (22 h day/2 h night, 25°C/22°C) in high‐density 50‐cell trays results in rapid generation advancement. We used genotypic data for a panel of soft red winter wheat varieties from the regional programs to determine the impact of photoperiod and vernalization alleles on the efficiency of the SB approach. Using a set of 48 SRWW cultivars and germplasm from Maryland and four other public breeding programs, we establish that this protocol can allow for the advancement of four generations per year in controlled conditions for winter wheat varieties, experimental lines, or emerging cultivars. Our work shows the potential to reduce generation time by ∼30 days per generation faster than what had been reported in the SB strategies for winter wheat, thus allowing for a quicker turnaround time from original cross to genetically stable experimental genotypes that can be tested in field settings.
Effect of Temperature and H Flux on the NH3 Synthesis via Electrochemical Hydrogen Permeation
Authors: Ripepi Davide , Schreuders Herman , Mulder Fokko M.
Published: May 2023

Ammonia is an indispensable commodity and a potential carbon free energy carrier. The use of H permeable electrodes to synthesize ammonia from N2, water and electricity, provides a promising alternative to the fossil fuel based Haber‐Bosch process. Here, H permeable Ni electrodes are investigated in the operating temperature range 25–120 °C, and varying the rate of electrochemical atomic hydrogen permeation. At 120 °C, a steady reaction is achieved for over 12 h with 10 times higher cumulative NH3 production and almost 40‐fold increase in faradaic efficiency compared to room temperature experiments. NH3 is formed with a cell potential of 1.4 V, corresponding to a minimum electrical energy investment of 6.6 kWh kg−1
. The stable operation is attributed to a balanced control over the population of N, NHx and H species at the catalyst surface. These findings extend the understanding on the mechanisms involved in the nitrogen reduction reaction and may facilitate the development of an efficient green ammonia synthesis process.
High school quality is associated with cognition 58 years later
Authors: Seblova Dominika , Eng Chloe , Avila‐Rieger Justina F. , Dworkin Jordan D. , Peters Kelly , Lapham Susan , Zahodne Laura B. , Chapman Benjamin , Prescott Carol A. , Gruenewald Tara L. , Arpawong Thalida Em. , Gatz Margaret , Jones Rich J. , Glymour Maria M. , Manly Jennifer J.
Published: May 2023

We leveraged a unique school‐based longitudinal cohort—the Project Talent Aging Study—to examine whether attending higher quality schools is associated with cognitive performance among older adults in the United States (mean age = 74.8). Participants (n = 2,289) completed telephone neurocognitive testing. Six indicators of high school quality, reported by principals at the time of schooling, were predictors of respondents’ cognitive function 58 years later. To account for school‐clustering, multilevel linear and logistic models were applied. We found that attending schools with a higher number of teachers with graduate training was the clearest predictor of later‐life cognition, and school quality mattered especially for language abilities. Importantly, Black respondents (n = 239; 10.5 percentage) were disproportionately exposed to low quality high schools. Therefore, increased investment in schools, especially those that serve Black children, could be a powerful strategy to improve later life cognitive health among older adults in the United States.
Predicting ecological outcomes using fuzzy interaction webs
Authors: Pearson Dean E. , Clark‐Wolf T. J.
Published: May 2023

The past 100 years of empirical research in ecology have generated tremendous knowledge about the component interactions that structure ecological communities. Yet, we still lack the ability to reassemble these puzzle pieces to predict community responses to perturbations, a challenge that grows increasingly urgent given rapid global change. We summarize key advances in community ecology that have set the stage for modeling ecological systems and briefly review the evolution of ecological modeling efforts to identify critical hurdles to progress. We find that while Robert May demonstrated that quantitative models could theoretically predict community interactions nearly 50 years ago, in practice, we still lack the ability to predict ecological outcomes with reasonable accuracy for three reasons: (1) quantitative models require precise data for parameterization (often unavailable) and have restrictive assumptions that are rarely met; (2) estimating interaction strengths for all network components is extremely challenging; and (3) determining which species are essential to include in models is difficult (model structure uncertainty). We propose that fuzzy interaction webs (FIW), borrowed from the social sciences, hold the potential to overcome these modeling shortfalls by integrating quantitative and qualitative data (e.g., categorical data, natural history information, expert opinion) for generating reasonably accurate qualitative predictions sufficient for addressing many ecological questions. We outline recent advances developed for addressing model structure uncertainty, and we present a case study to illustrate how FIWs can be applied for estimating community interaction strengths and predicting complex ecological outcomes in a multitrophic (plants, herbivores, predators), multi‐interaction‐type (competition, predation, facilitation, omnivory) grassland ecosystem. We argue that incorporating FIWs into ecological modeling could significantly advance empirical and theoretical ecology.
Glass half full: A diary and interview qualitative investigation of flourishing among adolescents living with chronic pain
Authors: Parsons Ryan D. , McParland Joanna L. , Halligan Sarah L. , Goubert Liesbet , Jordan Abbie
Published: May 2023

Background

Counter to paediatric pain literature that typically highlights the deleterious impacts associated with adolescent chronic pain, evidence suggests that some adolescents flourish in their experience of pain. This study sought to explore how adolescents experience, understand and perceive flourishing while living with chronic pain.

Methods

Twenty‐four adolescents aged 11–24 years were recruited via clinical and online settings. All adolescents were asked to complete daily diary entries, with a subset of 10 participants asked to complete follow‐up interviews.

Results

Inductive reflexive thematic analysis generated two themes: ‘Appreciating the moment’ and ‘Becoming a better version of myself’. Themes addressed how self and other comparisons facilitated a renewed appreciation for achievements and pleasures in life due to living with chronic pain. Adolescents further demonstrated a perception of continued personal and social growth in their experience of chronic pain, including increased emotional maturity, resilience, positivity, kindness and improved communication skills.

Conclusions

We conclude that adolescents can experience positive changes in functioning and flourish in some domains of life despite, or resulting from, chronic pain. Further research with an exclusive focus on flourishing is needed to build on this work and address this important gap in knowledge.

Significance

We present evidence that adolescents can flourish when living with chronic pain. Such knowledge may inform the development of positive psychological treatment strategies that are focused on reinforcing adolescents’ existing strengths, to expand on current treatment options for adolescents living with chronic pain.
Catalytic conversion of polysulfides by atomic layer deposition derived titanium nitride for high‐performance lithium‐sulfur batteries
Authors: Nizami Ameer , Yang Zhao , Deng Sixu , Li Ruying , Li Xia , Sun Xueliang
Published: May 2023

Lithium‐Sulfur (Li‐S) batteries as the next‐generation battery system have an ultrahigh theoretical energy density. However, the limited conversion of polysulfides in sulfur cathodes deteriorates the performance of Li‐S batteries. In this study, we develop a novel titanium nitride (TiN) catalyst for sulfur cathodes via atomic layer deposition (ALD). The synthesized ALD‐TiN catalyst shows controllable ultrafine particle size (<2 nm) and uniform distribution at the nanoscale in the carbon matrix. Combined with electrochemical analysis and multiple post‐characterization techniques, ALD‐TiN demonstrates an excellent catalytic effect to facilitate the nucleation and deposition of Li2S, which effectively suppresses the dissolution and shuttle of polysulfides. The as‐prepared sulfur cathodes, with the assistance of TiN catalyst, exhibit excellent cycling performance at a high rate (4 C) and deliver 200% higher discharge capacity than the pristine Sulfur‐pristine porous carbon composite cathodes.
Optimization control of the double‐capacity water tank‐level system using the deep deterministic policy gradient algorithm
Authors: Ye Likun , Jiang Pei
Published: May 2023

Process control systems are subject to external factors such as changes in working conditions and perturbation interference, which can significantly affect the system's stability and overall performance. The application and promotion of intelligent control algorithms with self‐learning, self‐optimization, and self‐adaption characteristics have thus become a challenging yet meaningful research topic. In this article, we propose a novel approach that incorporates the deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) algorithm into the control of double‐capacity water tanklevel system. Specifically, we introduce a fully connected layer on the observer side of the critic network to enhance its expression capability and processing efficiency, allowing for the extraction of important features for water‐level control. Additionally, we optimize the node parameters of the neural network and use the RELU activation function to ensure the network's ability to continuously observe and learn from the external water tank environment while avoiding the issue of vanishing gradients. We enhance the system's feedback regulation ability by adding the PID controller output to the observer input based on the liquid level deviation and height. This integration with the DDPG control method effectively leverages the benefits of both, resulting in improved robustness and adaptability of the system. Experimental results show that our proposed model outperforms traditional control methods in terms of convergence, tracking, anti‐disturbance and robustness performances, highlighting its effectiveness in improving the stability and precision of double‐capacity water tank systems.
Study on flame propagation characteristics of deposited coal dust explosion induced by pressure waves of different intensities
Authors: Hou Zhenhai , Wang Deming , Luo Shengyun , Zhong Qiu , Lu Yansen , Zhang Wei , Zhu Yunfei , Wu Shun
Published: May 2023

In the hope of studying the laws of secondary explosion induced by gas explosion shock waves lifting deposited coal dust (CD) in coal mines, the paper discusses the explosion overpressure, composite flame propagation characteristics and the acceleration mechanism of composite flame with the aid of a self‐built gas explosion experiment pipeline. The experimental results demonstrate that under the methane concentrations of 7.5%, 9.5% and 11.5%, the explosion time‐overpressure curves present same variation trend at different measuring points. Specifically, they all surge first, then decrease to a negative value and increase in oscillations, ultimately stabilizing at around 0 MPa. The presence of deposited CD in the reaction has an insignificant impact on the explosion overpressure at the measuring points, and the maximum overpressures all appear near the P2 (0.75 m away from the ignition source) measuring point. However, the deposited CD exerts a considerable influence on the flame's instantaneous velocity, especially on the flame structure during flame propagation. In stark contrast, when the methane concentration is 7.5%, the single flame has a larger instantaneous velocity than the composite flame and it exhibits finger flame, flat flame and tulip flame successively. Compared with the blue flame produced by pure methane combustion, the composite flame shows a bright white light strip that is distributed along the pipeline axis, accompanied by more obvious stratified combustion. The high‐pressure wave intensity and the flame front temperature jointly promote the overall turbulence intensity in the area where CD is swept up, resulting in continuous acceleration of the composite flame.
Building US food‐energy‐water security requires avoiding unintended consequences for ecosystems
Authors: Kucharik Christopher J , Booth Eric G , Loheide Steven P , Power Rebecca , Rissman Adena R , Seifert Jenny , Turner Monica G
Published: May 2023

Food‐energy‐water (FEW) systems are increasingly vulnerable to shocks. Repeated floods, worsening droughts, sudden tariffs, and disease outbreaks all underscore the importance of strengthening production systems during a time of rapid global change. However, the laws, regulations, and incentive programs that govern these sectors were often developed in isolation, creating fragmented and lagged responses to previous crises, ineffective governance of FEW security, and unintended effects even when achieving policy goals. Here, we examine the Mississippi River Basin in the Midwest US to illustrate how policies designed to address one challenge had other unanticipated consequences. We argue for a long view of the future that honors the interconnectedness of FEW sectors with ecosystems (FEWE); values non‐provisioning ecosystem services; and prioritizes incentives that improve FEW production, farm profitability, and ecosystem health. Now is the time for reassessment of how well FEWE provide security to all humans and the environment, and to support integrated policies that avoid unintended future consequences.
Functionalized magnetic covalent organic framework nanocomposites for high‐efficiency adsorption of ethyl carbamate from liquor
Authors: Yang Shuying , Wang Yahui , He Jingyi , Yang Ruixi , Ma Xin , Yuan Yahong , Yue Tianli , Sheng Qinglin
Published: May 2023

Ethyl carbamate (EC) is a kind of genotoxic and carcinogenic substance and potentially harmful to human health. In this study, simple and effective removal of EC from liquor samples by using the magnetic mesoporous adsorbent (Fe3O4@COFs) was investigated. Gas chromatography and triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (GC‐MS/MS) was used to monitor the whole of adsorption process. The results showed that the adsorbent has high efficiency and fast adsorption capacity. Under the optimized adsorption parameters, pseudo‐first‐order and pseudo‐second‐order kinetic models were employed to reveal the underlying sorption mechanism. Results indicated that the adsorption of EC on Fe3O4@COFs is more consistent with the pseudo‐second‐order model. Furthermore, an effective method for the adsorption and detection of EC was successfully developed, which exhibited good linearity with R2 ranging from 0.9954 to 0.9998, satisfactory recoveries in the range of 86.9%–116.2%, and the relative standard deviations (RSD) was lower than 5.8%. Fe3O4@COFs showed good stability and excellent performance in removing EC from liquor samples. It is expected that the proposed magnetic COFs hold great promise for liquor sample pretreatment and be extended for application in other fields.
Formula feeding and associated factors among mothers with infants 0–6 months old in Mettu Town, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Kera Abeza Mitiku , Zewdie Asrat , Akafu Wakuma , Kidane Radiet , Tamirat Meseret
Published: May 2023

Adequate nutrition during infancy is essential for children's normal development and well‐being. However, the duration of breastfeeding has been declining and is being replaced by formula feeding, particularly in the urban communities of developing countries, including Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to assess formula feeding and its associated factors, as relatively little information is available regarding this problem in Ethiopia, particularly in Mettu Town. A community‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted in Mettu Town from May 17 to July 1, 2021, among 366 mothers with infants 0–6 months old. A simple random sampling technique was used in this study. Pre‐tested semi‐structured questionnaires were used to collect the data. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were performed, and variables with a p‐value <0.05 in the final model were declared statistically significant with formula feeding found to be 28.4% [95% CI: (24.0–33.0)]. Primiparity [AOR = 3.27, 95% CI: (1.71–6.27)], cesarean delivery [AOR = 2.62, 95% CI: (1.28–5.35)], initiation of breastfeeding after 24 h [AOR = 3.5, 95% CI: (1.74–10.0)], employed mothers [AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: (1.29–4.19)], positive attitude toward formula feeding [AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: (1.29–4.19)], and poor knowledge of formula feeding [AOR = 2.6, 95% CI (1.49–4.74)] were factors significantly associated with formula feeding. Almost one‐third of the mothers were formula feeding their infants. Primiparity, maternal employment, initiation of breast milk after 24 h, cesarean delivery, poor maternal knowledge, and positive attitude toward formula feeding were among the contributing factors to this high formula‐feeding practice. Hence, much effort should be invested in educating pregnant and lactating mothers to improve their knowledge of formula feeding while working on activities that change their attitude toward formula feeding.
Disrupted hippocampal synchrony following maternal immune activation in a rat model
Authors: Munn Robert G. K. , Wolff Amy , Speers Lucinda J. , Bilkey David K.
Published: May 2023

Maternal immune activation (MIA) is a risk factor for schizophrenia and other neurodevelopmental disorders. MIA in rats models a number of the brain and behavioral changes that are observed in schizophrenia, including impaired memory. Recent studies in the MIA model have shown that the firing of the hippocampal place cells that are involved in memory processes appear relatively normal, but with abnormalities in the temporal ordering of firing. In this study, we re‐analyzed data from prior hippocampal electrophysiological recordings of MIA and control animals to determine whether temporal dysfunction was evident. We find that there is a decreased ratio of slow to fast gamma power, resulting from an increase in fast gamma power and a tendency toward reduced slow gamma power in MIA rats. Moreover, we observe a robust reduction in spectral coherence between hippocampal theta and both fast and slow gamma rhythms, as well as changes in the phase of theta at which fast gamma occurs. We also find the phasic organization of place cell phase precession on the theta wave to be abnormal in MIA rats. Lastly, we observe that the local field potential of MIA rats contains more frequent sharp‐wave ripple events, and that place cells were more likely to fire spikes during ripples in these animals than control. These findings provide further evidence of desynchrony in MIA animals and may point to circuit‐level changes that underlie failures to integrate and encode information in schizophrenia.
Proportion and number of cancer cases and deaths attributable to behavioral risk factors in Vietnam
Authors: Ha Linh , Tran An , Bui Linh , Giovannucci Edward , Mucci Lorelei , Song Mingyang , Le PhuongThao D. , Hoang Minh , Tran Huong , Kim Giang , Pham Tung
Published: May 2023

Identifying modifiable risk factors that contribute to cancer is essential in setting up preventive strategies. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the number and proportion of cancer cases and deaths attributable to five behavior‐related risk factors—tobacco smoking, second‐hand smoking, alcohol consumption, high body mass index and insufficient physical activity in Vietnam in 2020. Population attributable fractions were calculated for relationships of risk factors and cancer types based on sufficient evidence according to IARC or strong evidence according to WCRF/AICR. Relative risks were retrieved from meta‐analyses where possible. Prevalence of risk factors was obtained from the most current available nationally representative population surveys in Vietnam. Cancer cases and deaths were obtained from GLOBOCAN 2020. An estimated 40.5% of all cancer cases in men (39 924 cases) and 7.8% in women (6542 cases) were attributable to these risk factors. The proportions of cancer deaths attributable to these risk factors were 44.0% in men (32 807 cases) and 8.9% in women (4235 cases). Tobacco smoking was the leading cause of cancer cases and deaths in men, followed by alcohol consumption and high BMI. In women, high BMI accounted for the highest proportion of cancer cases and second‐hand smoking accounted for the highest proportion of cancer deaths. Lung and upper aerodigestive tract cancer cases and deaths could have been reduced at least by half if these risk factors had been eliminated. To reduce cancer incidence and mortality, preventive actions focusing on tobacco control are likely to have the most significant impact, especially in men.
SMEs' diversification of financing sources: Strategy or desperation?
Authors: Chit Myint Moe , Rizov Marian
Published: May 2023

The paper's objective is to provide a large sample evidence on small and medium enterprises' (SMEs) financing source diversification patterns. We use the large World Bank Enterprise Survey (WBES) sample of SMEs from 135 developing and emerging economies. We find that the extent of financing source diversification is significantly affected by firm‐specific and country‐specific characteristics. Commonly, (unconstrained) SMEs specialise their financing in retained earnings. However, SMEs experiencing financial constraints often rely on diversified financing sources. We provide theoretical justification and empirical evidence of a quadratic relationship between financial constraints and financing source diversification: SMEs experiencing a moderate degree of financial constraints use the most diversified sources of financing. This finding, combined with the evidence that financially unconstrained SMEs use fewer financing sources, suggests that diversification of financing sources by SMEs is a strategic choice based on the optimal complementarity of financing sources achieved through the credit multiplier channel.
Global incidence and mortality trends of corpus uteri cancer and associations with gross domestic product, human development index, lifestyle, and metabolic risk factors
Authors: Huang Junjie , Chan Wing Chung , Ngai Chun Ho , Lok Veeleah , Zhang Lin , Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo , Xu Wanghong , Zheng Zhi‐Jie , Elcarte Edmar , Withers Mellissa , Wong Martin C. S. ,   NCD Global Health Research Group, Association of Pacific Rim Universities
Published: May 2023

Objective

To evaluate the worldwide distribution, risk factors, and temporal trends of corpus uteri cancer for different countries and age groups.

Method

Data relating to corpus uteri cancer in 2020 were retrieved from the Global Cancer Observatory database. Data from Cancer Incidence in Five Continents and the WHO mortality database were used for trend analysis. Age‐standardized rates (ASR, per 100 000 persons) were calculated for incidence and mortality. Joinpoint regression analysis was used to estimate the 10‐year annual average percent change (AAPC).

Results

A total of 417 367 new cases and 97 370 new deaths of corpus uteri cancer were reported globally in 2020. The highest incidence was observed in high‐income countries. Higher ASR of mortality of corpus uteri cancer was associated with a higher gross domestic product per capita, higher Human Development Index, and higher prevalence of smoking, alcohol drinking, physical inactivity, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and lipid disorders. There was a substantial increasing trend of corpus uteri cancer, with the largest AAPC in incidence found in Japan, followed by India, Chile, Korea, and Thailand.

Conclusion

The incidence and mortality of corpus uteri cancer have been increasing substantially for the past 10 years. Intensive lifestyle modifications are needed, especially among younger women.
Mpox in pregnancy: Management, risks and challenges in Africa and lessons from the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Ubom Akaninyene Eseme , Oiwoh Sebastine Oseghae , Ajiboye Akinyosoye Deji , Nyeche Solomon , Appiah‐Kubi Adu , Sokunbi Aisha Ebehireme , Mbiiza Christabel Mweene , Olanrewaju Fatai Olatunde , Ighorodje Edesiri Ejovwoke , Akinkugbe Ayesha , Okoeguale Joseph , Ojo Oluwaseun Dorcas , Unwaha Emmanuel Adeiza , Oriji Peter Chibuzor , Adebawojo Tolulope Oluwatimileyin , Ekwebalam Obinna Prince , Okwaraoha Treasure Inyeneobong , Ijarotimi Omotade Adebimpe , Eifediyi Reuben Agbons , Okogbenin Sylvanus Akhalufo , Okwor Tochi , Ikimalo John Igemo , Kuti Oluwafemi , Fasubaa Olusola Benjamin , Ogoina Dimie
Published: May 2023

Data on mpox in pregnancy are currently limited. Historically, only 65 cases in pregnancy have been reported globally since mpox was discovered in 1958. This includes 59 cases in the current outbreak. Vertical transmission was confirmed in one patient. Pregnant women are at high risk of severe disease owing to immunological and hormonal changes that increase susceptibility to infections in pregnancy. African women appear to be at higher risk of mpox infection and adverse outcomes in pregnancy for epidemiological and immunologic reasons, in addition to the background high rates of adverse feto‐maternal outcomes in the region. This risk is potentially heightened during the COVID‐19 pandemic due to the possibility of mpox virus exportation/importation as a result of the lifting of movement restrictions and trans‐border travels between countries affected by the current outbreak. Furthermore, coinfection with mpox and COVID‐19 in pregnancy is possible, and the clinical features of both conditions may overlap. Challenges of diagnosis and management of mpox in pregnancy in Africa include patients concealing their travel history from healthcare providers and absconding from/evading isolation after diagnosis, shortage of personal protective equipment and polymerase chain reaction testing facilities for diagnosis, vaccine hesitancy/resistance, and poor disease notification systems. There is a need for local, regional and global support to strengthen the capacity of African countries to address these challenges and potentially reduce the disease burden among pregnant women in the continent.
Twin birth rates and obstetric interventions in Iceland: A nationwide study from 1997 to 2018
Authors: Ontiveros Jamie , Gunnarsdóttir Jóhanna , Guðnadóttir Sigurbjörg Anna , Aspelund Thor , Einarsdóttir Kristjana
Published: May 2023

Objective

Twin pregnancies are associated with increased antepartum and intrapartum risks. Limited multiple embryo transfers are associated with decreased twin birth rates. We aimed to study the effect of 2009 Icelandic regulations on twin birth rates and examine obstetric intervention rates for twin births during the study period.

Methods

The study included all births (N = 94 028) in Iceland during 1997–2018. Twin birth rates and obstetric intervention rates were compared over birth year periods using modified Poisson regression adjusted for confounders.

Results

An observed decrease in the twin birth rate trend was most notable from 2006 until 2009. Twin birth decreased in 2009–2013 (prevalence ratio [PR] 0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.64–0.86) and in 2014–2018 (PR 0.74, 95% CI 0.64–0.86) compared with 1997–2002. This decrease was only evident for women aged 30+ years in stratified analysis. Induction of labor rates increased from 26% in 1997–2002 to 44% in 2014–2018 (adjusted rate ratio [ARR] 2.10, 95% CI 1.72–2.57) whereas elective cesarean section (ARR 0.80, 95% CI 0.59–1.07) and urgent cesarean section (ARR 0.79, 95% CI 0.63–1.00) rates appeared to decline.

Conclusion

Twin births decreased during the study period. International guidelines published before the Icelandic regulations may have affected twin birth rates in Iceland. Induction of labor rates for twins increased while cesarean section rates decreased.
Waterlogging and salinity: Cause and effect in the framework of a social, environmental and financial nexus
Authors: Vlotman Willem F.
Published: May 2023

Waterlogging and salinity are the effect of something that happened upstream of the point of observation, the cause. The most common responses to solving the twin problem of waterlogging and salinity are installing drainage, providing more irrigation water, cleaning existing outfall drains regularly and maintaining low groundwater levels. This article emphasizes that looking for the cause of the effect would have to be the first action to be undertaken. It may be that a sustainable solution is upstream of the location of the problem. Involving stakeholders' right from the beginning and creating dialogues with all involved throughout the process of initiating, planning, designing, constructing, operating and maintaining a drainage and irrigation system is essential. Performing a triple bottom line within the framework of a water–food–energy nexus is recommended.

Areas with waterlogging and salinity are generally well‐known locally (i.e. in‐country), but the extent not necessarily. This is readily overcome by an aerial survey with camera‐equipped drones (remote sensing) or by tapping into the fast libraries of space‐based imagery.

Innovative products such as the Capiphon Drainage, the Hydroluis drainpipe–envelope combination and SwarmFarm robots to monitor on‐farm irrigation and drainage are described.
Accessibility in video gaming: An overview and implications for English language arts education
Authors: von Gillern Sam , Nash Brady
Published: May 2023

Scholars in recent years have explored the connections between video games, literacy, and learning. Research illustrates that video games can serve as texts for engagement and analysis in English language arts classrooms. Scholars have also demonstrated how games themselves effectively integrate a complex array of learning principles that help players understand and progress in the game. In this article, we explore how recent efforts in game design to promote accessibility for differently abled gamers have implications for literacy education that can promote inclusivity and equity in English language arts classrooms. While recognizing the social construction of the concept of (dis)abilities, we explore existing literature on the video games, literacy, accessibility, and universal design for learning. We then demonstrate specific ways that video game designers promote visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive accessibility for gamers and share how literacy educators can draw upon these strategies to promote accessibility in their curriculum and instruction to help all students engage, learn, and thrive.
Engineering of poly(caprolactone) and poly(glycerol sebacate) small‐diameter vascular prosthesis with quercetin
Authors: Ferrari Pier Francesco , Aliakbarian Bahar , Barisione Chiara , Kahn Cyril J. F. , Arab‐Tehrany Elmira , Palombo Domenico , Perego Patrizia
Published: May 2023

The fabrication of biodegradable, bioabsorbable, and biocompatible vascular scaffolds with enhanced mechanical and biological properties that are able to modulate local inflammation and induce endothelialization after surgical implant is still a challenge. In this work, a fibrous scaffold, made of poly(ε‐caprolactone) and poly(glycerol sebacate), was fabricated to be potentially used as a small‐diameter graft in vascular surgery. The novelty of this research is represented by the direct incorporation of quercetin, a well‐known antioxidant compound with several biological properties, into a polymeric scaffold obtaining a vascular construct able to modulate two key factors involved in postsurgical inflammation, matrix metalloproteinase‐9 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase. For its production, an electrospinning apparatus, a solution made of the two polymers (both 20% (w/v), mixed at the ratio 1:1 (v/v)), and free quercetin (0.05% (w/v)) were used. Scanning electron and atomic force microscopies were employed to investigate the morphological properties of the fabricated electrospun scaffolds. Furthermore, physicochemical properties, including Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, mass loss, fluid uptake, quercetin release, mechanical properties, and biological activity of the scaffolds were studied. The expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐1, and of endothelial nitric oxide synthase was evaluated when the quercetin‐functionalized scaffold was exposed to  human endothelial cells treated with tumor necrosis factor‐α. The results of this study confirmed the feasibility of incorporating free quercetin during the electrospinning process to impart biological properties to small‐diameter vascular prostheses.