bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Constraints Encountered by Banana Growers in Adopting Water Management Practices using Henry Garrett Ranking Technique
Authors: Shanjeevika V. , Balasubramaniam P. , Palanichamy N. Venkatesa , Pirabu J. Venkata , Duraisamy M. R.
Published: September 2022

Aim: To analyze the constraints endured by banana growers in adopting Water Management Practices.

Methodology: Vellore district of North Eastern Zone in Tamil Nadu was purposively selected for the study as it had highest number of revenue blocks under critical groundwater explosion. Two villages from Anaicut block namely Melarasampatti and Vananthanghal were selected for the study. Banana is one of the water intensive crops which has number of water management practices to be followed. Hence banana was selected for the study. Constraints in adopting water management practices was assessed by using Henry Garrett Ranking technique. A total of 80 respondents were selected for the analysis.

Results: Poor quality of drippers (71.68), Insufficiency of drippers for the entire field (63.95), Non availability of materials for mulching (63.16), Physical damage to drippers and microtubers while performing intercultural operations (59.39), Clogging of drippers due to salt water (54.93), Lack of knowledge about tissue cultured banana plantlets (50.86) were the major constraints encountered by the farmers.

Conclusion: We are in crucial need to extirpate these constraints to improve the adoption of water management practices among banana growers.
Long-term Impact of Soil Test and Targeted Yield Based Nutrient Management on Vertical Variability in Carbon Fractions of a Vertisol under Rice-wheat Cropping Sequence
Authors: Raghuwanshi Sourabh , Upadhyay A. K. , Yadav Indra Raj , Patel Raghav
Published: September 2022

Aim: To study the Long-term impact of soil test and targeted yield based nutrient management on vertical variability in carbon fractions of a Vertisol under rice-wheat cropping sequence.

Place and Duration of Study: This research trail was conducted during rabi season of 2020-21 in an on-going research programme of AICRP on STCR initiated during 2008 at the Research Farm of Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur.

Study Design: The study has consisted of six treatments of nutrient management practices based on soil test and targeted yields of rice and wheat (T1: Control; T2: GRD; T3: T.Y. 50 and 45 q ha-1 for rice and wheat; T4: T.Y. 60 q ha-1; T5: T.Y. 50 and 45 q with FYM 5 t ha-1 for rice and wheat and T6: T.Y. 60 q with 5 t FYM ha-1) at different soil depths (0-15, 15-30 and 30-45 cm) which were replicated four times in a randomized block design.A total of 72 post- harvest soil samples of wheat were subjected to determination of carbon fractions across the soil depths.

Results: Results revealed that Carbon fractions in soil were significantly altered by nutrient management practices over soil depths. However, the highest contents of organic and inorganic carbon fractions in soil were obtained under T6 having highest yield target of 60 q along with FYM 5 t ha-1 and the lowest in control. The results showed that contents of carbon fractions of soil were decreased with consecutive increase in soil depths except less labile carbon and inorganic carbon which increased with soil depths.
Attitude Analysis of Agriculture Graduates towards Agriculture Education
Authors: Prasanna P. Laxmi , Bhandhavya M. , Mohapatra B. P.
Published: September 2022

The present study was conducted to analyze the attitude of agriculture graduates towards agriculture education. It is very important to analyze the attitude of agriculture studies towards agriculture education, as this is the one of important sector to serve the farming community in future. The study was conducted in Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar with 60 numbers of respondents by random sampling method. It has been observed that most of the respondents belong to general category, rural back ground, having good academic performance, interested to work as agriculture scientist and neutrally favorable towards agriculture education.
Common Errors in Spinal Impairment Rating: AMA Guides, Sixth Edition, Definitions of Radiculopathy vs Nonverifiable Radicular Complaints
Authors: Talmage James B.
Published: September 2022

In assessing spinal impairment, it is imperative to distinguish between limb pain or numbness that might be radicular, but with no objective verification, from symptoms that represent, in fact, true radiculopathy, ie, pain, numbness, or weakness that was related to objective radiculopathy. In the sixth edition of the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment (AMA Guides), this distinction determines what row in the spine tables is used to rate impairment. Failure to discern between nonverifiable radicular complaints and true radiculopathy is a source of frequent errors in spinal impairment rating. True radiculopathy is pain, numbness, and/or weakness from nerve root damage, most commonly from a disc herniation. This article will review how the AMA Guides has dealt with the concept of radiculopathy through the years.
Best Practices for the Independent Medical Examination of Mental and Behavioral Disorders
Authors: Els Charl , Gelinas Barry , Carter Rose M. , Kertay Les
Published: September 2022

Independent medical examinations (IMEs) are elective evaluations of clinical conditions and differ from a clinical consultation in several important ways. They are conducted in many medicolegal contexts and are performed by a regulated health professional who is not the treating health care provider. An IME seeks objective information about the examinee's diagnoses, functional abilities and impairments, and other features relevant to addressing medicolegal-related cases by relying on multiple data sources. Best practice guidelines have been established for the completion of physical IMEs. However, similar mental and behavioral disorder (M&BD) standards are less common, and M&BD IMEs often do not follow a consistent process. This article offers guidance on applying and adapting existing standards to M&BD IMEs. We outlined the appropriate use of psychiatric nomenclature and how to apply recent changes to Chapter 14 of the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment. The article further offers a mechanism for introducing greater objectivity into an otherwise subjective process by employing relevant psychological validity testing and conducting a coherence analysis in formulating an opinion. In summary, we provide a synopsis of current best practices and offer the examiner a method for aligning M&BD IMEs with equally high standards of excellence.
SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein aggregation is triggered by bacterial lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Petrlova Jitka , Samsudin Firdaus , Bond Peter J. , Schmidtchen Artur
Published: September 2022

SARS‐CoV‐2 spike (S) protein is crucial for virus invasion in COVID‐19. Here, we showed that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can trigger S protein aggregation at high doses of LPS and S protein. We demonstrated the formation of S protein aggregates by microscopy analyses, aggregation and gel shift assays. LPS at high levels boosts the formation of S protein aggregates as detected by amytracker and thioflavin T dyes that specifically bind to aggregating proteins. We validated the role of LPS by blocking the formation of aggregates by the endotoxin‐scavenging thrombin‐derived peptide TCP‐25. Aggregation‐prone sequences in S protein are predicted to be nearby LPS binding sites, while molecular simulations showed stable formation of S protein–LPS higher‐order oligomers. Collectively, our results provide evidence of LPS‐induced S protein aggregation.
Ethnocracy
Authors: Sufian Abu
Published: September 2022

Ethnocracy has become one of the defining features of human geography in studying majoritarian politics, the status of minorities, and political regime dynamics around the world. The prominent Israeli geographer Oren Yiftachel has developed “ethnocracy” as a critical framework and comprehensive theory for analyzing the impact of political regimes on the position and identity of peripheral minorities. Within political regimes, ethnocracy promotes a particular type of ethno‐nationalism that justifies the state's ethnoterritorial logic. A dominant ethnic group expropriates the political system and attempts to assemble political institutions, private organizations, and civic culture to extend its control over state territory and its strategic resources. In recent times, ethnocratic order is evident globally in the guise of ethnopopulism, whereby leading political leaders publicly discriminate against “ethnic ‘others’ to attract support from ‘their own’ ethnic groups.”
Self‐Assembled LaFeO3/ZnFe2O4/La2O3 Ultracompact Hybrids with Enhanced Piezo‐Phototronic Effect for Oxygen Activation in Ambient Conditions
Authors: Zhang Lixuan , Wang Kai , Jia Yanqi , Fang Liping , Han Chen , Li Jiaquan , Shao Zongping , Li Xinyong , Qiu Jieshan , Liu Shaomin
Published: September 2022

Piezoelectric polarization portrays a promising technology to regulate the photogenerated charge carrier separation and transfer behaviors, and the design of multifunctional catalysts with piezo‐phototronic effect is a key step. One strategy is to prepare a composite catalyst combining the ideal properties from each individual component. Herein, a facial dopant‐induced self‐assembling strategy is reported to fabricate an ultracompact nanocomposite (LaFeO3/ZnFe2O4/La2O3) with enhanced efficiency for piezo‐photocatalysis. The composite is synthesized at 800 °C from the one‐pot method, thus the self‐constructed interface is created during multi‐phase formation, providing the intimate grain‐to‐grain contact between the semiconductive LaFeO3 and piezoelectric ZnFe2O4/La2O3 phases. In such a composite, a synergistic effect for oxygen activation is realized via the effective manipulation of the photogenerated charge carrier separation and spatial transportation through the vibration‐created piezopotential. A high piezoelectric coefficient (d33) up to 826 pm V−1 and a superior H2O2 yield of 403 µmol g−1 h−1 (in open air and pure water) are achieved on the optimized composite, outperforming most of the reported lead‐free piezo‐photocatalyst. The ultracompact composite is very robust without any decay in H2O2‐delivering capability after many cyclic tests. This study provides a universal strategy for the rational design of high‐performance piezo‐photocatalysts.
Flexible Ferroelectric Devices: Status and Applications
Authors: Jia Xiaotong , Guo Rui , Tay Beng Kang , Yan Xiaobing
Published: September 2022

Flexible electronic devices have been extensively studied for their advantages of distinguished portability, conformal contact characteristics, and human‐friendly interfaces compared with conventional bulk Si technology. Flexible electronics can be attached to various surfaces like skin and internal organs for human–machine interaction, which has made significant advances in electronics, medicine, neuromorphic computing, etc. Owing to the innovation and maturation of the thin film preparation process, which have promoted the successful preparation of high‐quality flexible ferroelectric films. Herein, the preparation of flexible ferroelectric devices and the progress of their applications in recent years are reviewed. Prevailing methods for preparing flexible ferroelectric films including the van der Waals heteroepitaxy on flexible substrate, delamination of the ferroelectric films on rigid substrate by chemical etching techniques, and direct use of novel 2D ferroelectric materials etc. are summarized. The research progress of flexible ferroelectric devices applied to memories, sensors, photovoltaic devices, and energy harvesters are also be discussed in detail. Moreover, the potential applications of flexible ferroelectric devices in the field of neuromorphic computing are studied, a new trend which contributes to the further development of brain‐like chip systems. Finally, the challenges and prospects of flexible ferroelectric devices in the future advanced electronics are briefly proposed.
Recent Developments on Gas‐Phase Volatile Organic Compounds Abatement Based on Photocatalysis
Authors: Xu Zhenmin , Ren Yuqing , Deng Xiaoming , Xu Mengli , Chai Wei , Qian Xufang , Bian Zhenfeng
Published: September 2022

The health and environmental problems caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have attracted wide attention. Photocatalytic technology provides a green and sustainable way for VOCs removal. How to build a highly efficient and stable photocatalyst is of great significance to promote the practical application of photocatalysis technology. In this review, the literatures on photocatalytic oxidation in VOCs are surveyed and systematically categorized based on the types of photocatalytic materials. The methods of improving photocatalytic activity are studied, and the deactivation process of photocatalyst is discussed. Finally, the reaction mechanism is summarized according to the charge separation process and the classification of reactive oxygen species.
Characteristics and Neural Correlates of Emotional Behavior during Prefrontal Seizures
Authors: Singh Rinki , Giusiano Bernard , Bonini Francesca , Lagarde Stanislas , Brockington Alice , Trébuchon‐Dafonseca Agnès , Bartolomei Fabrice , McGonigal Aileen
Published: September 2022

Objective

This study was undertaken to characterize clinical expression and intracerebral electroencephalographic (EEG) correlates of emotional expression during prefrontal epileptic seizures.

Methods

We performed a descriptive analysis of seizure semiology in patients explored with stereo‐EEG (SEEG) for pharmacoresistant prefrontal epilepsy, using a semiquantitative score for seizure‐related emotional behavior. Two independent observers scored occurrence and intensity of objective emotional features (face/body movements/vocalization/overall appearance), testing interobserver reliability. Intracerebral electrophysiological changes were documented. Cluster analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) compared behavioral signs with neural SEEG correlates. For each patient, the clinical and anatomoelectrophysiological scores were established, based on a prototypical emotional seizure.

Results

Forty‐two patients (469 seizures) were included. Interobserver correlation for emotional signs was satisfactory (kappa = 0.6–0.8). Prevalence of any subjective and/or objective ictal emotional phenomena was 79% (33/42); objective emotional signs occurred in 27 of 42 subjects (64%). Negatively valenced emotional semiology (ictal feeling of fear, defensive and/or aggressive behaviors) was much more prevalent than positively valenced, prosocial behaviors. Cluster analysis and PCA identified 4 groups with different occurrence of emotional signs and cerebral correlates. Two main clusters of negatively valenced behavior were identified: “active threat response,” associated with seizure organizations involving posterior orbitofrontal cortex, anterior cingulate, and dorsolateral and/or ventrolateral prefrontal cortex; and “passive fear,” associated with amygdala, other mesial temporal structures, and posterior orbitofrontal cortex.

Interpretation

Emotional behaviors, especially fear/threat response, are common in prefrontal seizures, reflecting the role of the prefrontal cortex in emotional control. Different cortical seizure localizations were associated with “passive fear” and “active threat response” seizure behaviors at the group level. ANN NEUROL 2022;92:1052–1065
Tailoring Pure Inorganic Electrolyte for Aqueous Sodium‐Ion Batteries Operating at −60 °C
Authors: Zhu Kunjie , Sun Zhiqin , Jin Ting , Chen Xuchun , Si Yuchang , Li Haixia , Jiao Lifang
Published: September 2022

Aqueous sodium‐ion batteries (ASIBs) have attracted increasing attention for next‐generation energy storage technologies due to their abundant resources and environmentally‐safe, while their application scenarios are severely limited by the high freezing point of conventional aqueous electrolytes. To overcome the aforementioned issues of ASIBs, a novel hybrid 3.5 m Mg(ClO4)2+0.5 m NaClO4 electrolyte (m: mol kg−1) with an ultra‐low freezing point (<−80 °C) is proposed. The exceptional anti‐freezing feature is mainly attributed to the higher ionic potential of Mg2+, greatly affecting the chemical environment of water molecules and inhibiting ice formation under subzero conditions. Benefiting from the superiority of ionic conductivity (4.86 mS cm−1) for the hybrid electrolyte at −60 °C, the full cell of active carbon||NaTi2(PO4)3@C delivers an ultra‐long lifespan of 10000 cycles under 8 C (1 C=133 mA g−1) at −60 °C. More importantly, some representative devices in daily life including smartphone and motor can be powered by ASIBs at −60 °C. Therefore, this work provides a rational and effective strategy for design and application of ASIBs with excellent electrochemical performance that can work in extremely cold environments.
Continued exposure to D‐galactose in postnatal period may inhibit excessive primordial follicle reduction in rats exposed prenatally to D‐galactose
Authors: Dovom Marzieh Rostami , Noroozzadeh Mahsa , Mosaffa Nariman , Zadeh‐Vakili Azita , Piryaei Abbas , Rahmati Maryam , Azar Mahbanoo Farhadi , Tehrani Fahimeh Ramezani
Published: September 2022

We aimed to compare the ovarian reserve of rats exposed to oral D‐galactose during prenatal and early life with rats exposed to D‐galactose only during the prenatal period. Fifteen female pregnant Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups. The first and second groups were fed a D‐galactose enriched diet (35%) from the third day of pregnancy to parturition (PP) and the third day to the end of lactation (PL), respectively. The control group (C group) was fed a standard diet. The study population was the female offspring of three groups (PP′, PL′, and C′), in which some reproductive factors were examined between 45 and 50 days of age. When compared with the PP′ group, the number of primordial follicles was significantly higher in the PL′ group at PND 45–50 (40 vs. 30; p = .01); however, the antimullerian hormone level was significantly reduced in the PL′ group versus control group (−2.2, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −2.83, −1.53 ng/ml p = .000), and follicle‐stimulating hormone level significantly increased in PP′ group versus control (4.5 mIU/ml, 95% CI: 1.40–7.62, p = .005). There was no significant difference in leukocyte infiltration or antiovarian antibody among the groups. Continued exposure to D‐galactose during the lactation period inhibits the primordial follicle loss in rats in terms of producing fewer atretic follicles.
Getting patients back for routine colorectal cancer screening: Randomized controlled trial of a shared decision‐making intervention
Authors: Sepucha Karen R. , Valentine Kathrene D. , Atlas Steven J. , Chang Yuchiao , Fairfield Kathleen M. , Ha Jasmine , Leavitt Lauren , Lee Vivian , Percac‐Lima Sanja , Richter James M. , Simmons Leigh
Published: September 2022

Thousands of colonoscopies were canceled during the initial surge of the COVID‐19 pandemic. As facilities resumed services, some patients were hesitant to reschedule. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a decision aid plus telephone coaching would increase colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and improve patient reports of shared decision making (SDM). A randomized controlled trial assigned adults aged 45–75 without prior history of CRC who had a colonoscopy canceled from March to May 2020 to intervention (n = 400) or usual care control (n = 400) arms. The intervention arm received three‐page decision aid and call from decision coach from September 2020 through November 2020. Screening rates were collected at 6 months. A subset (n = 250) in each arm was surveyed 8 weeks after randomization to assess SDM (scores range 0–4, higher scores indicating more SDM), decisional conflict, and screening preference. The sample was on average, 60 years old, 53% female, 74% White, non‐Hispanic, and 11% Spanish speaking. More intervention arm patients were screened within 6 months (35% intervention vs 23% control, p < 0.001). The intervention respondents reported higher SDM scores (mean difference 0.7 [0.4, 0.9], p < 0.001) and less decisional conflict than controls (−21% [−35%, −7%], p = 0.003). The majority in both arms preferred screening versus delaying (68% intervention vs. 65% control, p = 0.75). An SDM approach that offered alternatives and incorporated patients' preferences resulted in higher screening rates. Patients who are overdue for CRC screening may benefit from proactive outreach with SDM support.
Complex, high‐risk percutaneous coronary intervention types, trends, and in‐hospital outcomes among different age groups: An insight from a national registry
Authors: Shamkhani Warkaa , Rashid Muhammad , Mamas Mamas
Published: September 2022

Background

Complex, high‐risk percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (CHiP) is increasingly being undertaken in octogenarians. However, limited data exist on CHiP types, trends, and outcomes in the octogenarian.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study from a national registry dataset on CHiP undertaken in patients with stable angina in England and Wales (January 2006 and December 2017) according to three age groups (group 1 [G1]: < 65 years; group 2 [G2]: 65–79 years; and group 3 [G3]: ≥80 years).

Results

Of 424,290 elective PCI procedures, 138,831 (33.0%) were CHiP [G1: 46,832 (33.7%); G2: 59,544 (42.9%); G3: 32,455 (23.4%)]. Among CHiP types, chronic total occlusion (CTO) (49.2%), prior coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) (30.4%), and severe vascular calcification (21.8%) were common in G1; prior CABG (42.9%), CTO (32.9%), and severe vascular calcifications (27%) were common in G2; prior CABG (15.8%), severe vascular calcification (15.5%), and chronic renal failure (11.1%) were common CHiP among the octogenarians. The older age groups had higher adjusted odds (aOR) for adverse outcomes [G2: mortality, aOR 1.7, 95% confidence interval (CI): (1.3–2.3); major bleeding, aOR 1.3, 95% CI (1.1–1.5); MACCE, aOR 1.2, 95% CI (1.0–1.3); G3: mortality, aOR 2.6, 95%CI (1.9–3.6); major bleeding, aOR 1.4, 95% CI (1.1–1.7); MACCE, aOR 1.3, 95% CI (1.1–1.5)].

Conclusion

There were significant differences in the types of CHiP cases undertaken and clinical outcomes across age groups.
Controlling the Surface Reactivity of Hybrid Ti3CN MXene via In‐situ Electrocatalysis
Authors: Uwadiunor Ekenedilichukwu , Johnson Denis , Hansen Kyle , Djire Abdoulaye
Published: September 2022

Two‐dimensional (2D) carbide and nitride MXenes possess properties that are desirable for a broad range of electrocatalytic applications including the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). These properties include high surface area, hydrophilicity, heterogeneity of redox‐active transition metals, and tunable surface functionalities allowing for low HER overpotentials. In this paper, we report on the cathodic etching and −O/−OH functionalization of hybrid Ti3CN upon the application of an external potential for improved HER performance and show that the active sites for HER on this MXene catalyst are located primarily on the −O− and −OH functional groups. The overpotential for the hybrid Ti3CN improves by 350 mV upon in‐situ −O/−OH functionalization and etching, reaching −0.46 V vs. RHE at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, much lower than those reported for the benchmark Ti3C2 carbide MXene. These results provide a path forward to tuning the electrocatalytic activity of MXenes and related electrocatalysts for water splitting.
Biorefineries in Kraft pulp mills for biofuels production: A critical review
Authors: Oliveira Kátia D. , Cademartori Pedro H. G. , Muniz Graciela I. B. , Luz‐Junior Luiz F. L. , Ávila‐Neto Cícero N.
Published: September 2022

Kraft pulp production generates residues and by‐products of significant importance to the mill. Solid residues from forestry activities are commonly used to generate steam in power boilers. In the recovery cycle, black liquor generates steam (and subsequently energy) by burning in the Tomlinson boiler, while white liquor is regenerated. Well‐developed alternative technologies can use these residues and by‐products to generate different types of biofuels. This review addresses the use of such technologies integrated with Kraft mills, in the concept of biorefineries, showing advantages, disadvantages, and successful examples. Solid residues from forestry can be used to produce bio‐oil through processes such as fast pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction. Bio‐oils are currently used for heating through combustion in commercial/industrial boilers, but greater appreciation occurs if used as biofuels, which is done through catalytic upgrading processes. Black liquor gasification generates synthesis gas, which can be burned for energy co‐generation, used to produce synthetic fuels, or as a hydrogenating agent for bio‐oil or crude tall oil catalytic upgrading. Kraft biorefineries are gradually being implemented, justifying efforts to improve existing and new biomass conversion technologies.
Photoswitchable, Water‐Soluble Bisazobenzene Cross‐Linkers with Enhanced Properties for Biological Applications
Authors: Volarić Jana , Thallmair Sebastian , Feringa Ben L. , Szymanski Wiktor
Published: September 2022

Photoswitchable cross‐linkers are light‐responsive molecules that can be attached at two locations to a target biomolecule to modulate its activity. Under irradiation, the cross‐linker changes the distance between the residues it spans, affecting the structure and function of the labeled target. Efficient photocontrol is enabled especially by cross‐linkers with large end‐to‐end length change upon switching. The design of water‐soluble azobenzene‐based cross‐linkers for applications in chemical biology remains challenging due to major issues regarding synthesis and purification. Furthermore, the solubility and photochemical properties of the reported systems are frequently not suitable in aqueous media. Herein we report two water‐soluble bisazobenzene cross‐linkers with extended half‐lives and high photostationary state isomer distributions that can be achieved upon irradiation. We present molecules that enable cross‐linking of biomolecular residues within one target, or are bridging two proteins to allow the study of protein–protein interactions, which paves the way for light‐based manipulation of under‐explored biological targets.
Wireless charging for cardiac pacemakers based on class‐D power amplifier and a series–parallel spider‐web coil
Authors: Mahmood Amal Ibrahim , Gharghan Sadik Kamel , Eldosoky Mohamed A. , Soliman Ahmed M.
Published: September 2022

Biomedical implants (BMIs) and biomedical sensors (BMSs) help to improve quality of life, detect diseases, provide monitoring of vital signs, and take over the role of malfunctioning organs. These implants and sensors require continuous battery power to work effectively, but the batteries used are restricted by their limited capacity and lifetime. This research reported here involved the design and implementation of a wireless charging system based on a series–parallel spider‐web coil (WPT‐SP‐SWC), specifically for cardiac pacemakers. The experimental design investigated several important parameters, including air gap, applied source voltage, coil size, and operating frequency. Performance metrics were evaluated in terms of output DC voltage, delivered output power, and power transfer efficiency. The target voltage was 5 V, which is adequate to charge a BMI such as a pacemaker, and three source voltages (5, 15, and 25 V) were tested. The design was examined at six operating frequencies, ranging from 1.78 MHz to 6.78 MHz. The most favorable results were achieved at 1.78 MHz. Power transfer efficiencies at a 10 mm air gap were 95.75% and 92.08% for applied voltages of 5 V and 15 V, respectively. The effectiveness of the proposed system was also validated by comparing the findings with previous articles.
Negative quadrant glitch suppression control of ball‐screw‐driven stage for machine tool by friction compensation and initial value compensation
Authors: Hayashi Takumi , Fujimoto Hiroshi , Isaoka Yoshihiro , Terada Yuki
Published: September 2022

Ball‐screw‐driven stages are widely used as feed systems of industrial equipment such as machine tools. Rolling friction in the stages causes a large tracking error called a quadrant glitch at a velocity reversal. Although the model‐based friction compensation reduces the quadrant glitch, it often leads to a tracking error in the direction opposite to the quadrant glitch. This study aims to present a control system that reduces both the quadrant glitch and opposite‐direction error. This is achieved by combining the model‐based friction compensation and initial value compensation. The effectiveness of the proposed control system is verified by simulations and experiments with two‐axis experimental setup.
Stabilizing the C−N Double Bond Character in Fumaramide with the Aid of Superacids
Authors: Bayer Marie C. , Greither Nikolaus , Bockmair Valentin , Nitzer Alexander , Kornath Andreas J.
Published: September 2022

Fumaramide was reacted with the superacidic systems XF/SbF5 and XF/BF3 (X=H, D) leading to the formation of the O‐diprotonated species. Using an equimolar amount of the Lewis acids relating to fumaramide, a mixture of the diprotonated salt and the diadduct with O‐coordinated HF was obtained. The salts [C4H2X6N2O2]2+[(BF4)−]2 and [C4H2X6N2O2]2+[(SbF6)−]2 (X=H, D) were characterized by low‐temperature vibrational spectroscopy. Single‐crystal X‐ray structure analyses were carried out for the compounds [C4H8N2O2]2+[(BF4)−]2, C4H6N2O2⋅⋅⋅2HF, and fumaramide. To discuss the experimental results, quantum chemical calculations were executed at the B3LYP/aug‐cc‐pVTZ level of theory. To investigate the impact of the protonation on the resonance +M effect and the electron distribution concerning the conjugated system ESP maps, NPA charges, and NBO analyses were consulted. Due to the protonation, the nitrogen lone pair contributes completely to the formation of the C=N π‐bond, stabilizing the C=N double bond character. Since no monoprotonation of fumaramide is observed, amide hydrolysis is possible simultaneously on both amide groups.
Synergistic moisturizing activity and antioxidant activity between crude polysaccharides and flavonoids in discarded stem of Trollius chinensis bunge
Authors: Zhang Saimin , Guo Qiwei , Xin Yu , Li Qixuan , Liu Yang
Published: September 2022

In this article, the synergistic effect in moisturizing activity and antioxidant activity between the promising unconventional polysaccharide and flavonoids from stems of Trollius chinensis bunge (TCS) was investigated. The results showed that the mixture with the mass ratio (w/w) of 7:3 (flavonoids to polysaccharides) appeared better moisture retention (73.08 ± 2.4%) and scavenging effects on·OH radicals (85.46 ± 0.52%). Meanwhile, the mixture with the mass ratio (w/w) of 3:7 (flavonoids to polysaccharides) unveiled better scavenging effects on DPPH radicals (44.10 ± 0.81%) and reducing capacity. The results confirmed that the polysaccharides and flavonoids from TCS have good synergistic effects in moisturizing activity and antioxidant activity, and have the potential to be used in the food industry as edible films or edible packaging materials.
Characterization of biodegradable food packaging films prepared with polyamide 4: Influence of molecular weight and environmental humidity
Authors: Zhang Di , Nie Rong , Zhang Chunyue , Wang Yibing , Wang Li , Chen Tao , Zhao Liming
Published: September 2022

The development of biodegradable packaging materials focuses on their barrier properties and mechanical properties, which are critical parameters for food protection. Synthetic biodegradable material polyamide 4 (PA4) may offer outstanding capacities for packaging due to its rigid molecular structure. The current study originally reveals the various physical properties of PA4 films and explores the influence of its internal structure, molecular weight, and external environment, environmental humidity, on its performance to provide further guidance for PA4 application. PA4 (Mη = 18,000 g/mol) films showed tensile strength (TS) of 47.5 ± 1.3 MPa, elongation at break (EB) of 228% ± 30%, oxygen permeability of 7.83 ± 3.32 × 10−17 cm3 m−1 s−1 Pa−1, and water vapor permeability of 4.34 ± 0.06 × 10−11g m−1 s−1 Pa−1. The TS and EB of PA4 improved slightly with increasing molecular weight, while the barrier characteristic remained unchanged. The moisture adsorption capabilities of PA4 films were similar to natural hydrophilic polymers. The mechanical characteristic of PA4 changed from brittle to ductile with the increase in relative humidity. Overall, PA4 can be considered to be a promising food packaging material since it presented better mechanical and oxygen barrier properties than those of commercial food packaging polymers.
Antioxidants and clinical outcomes of patients with coronavirus disease 2019: A systematic review of observational and interventional studies
Authors: Foshati Sahar , Mirjalili Fatemeh , Rezazadegan Mahsa , Fakoorziba Farnoosh , Amani Reza
Published: September 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a newly emerging viral infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). Oxidative stress appears to be a prominent contributor to the pathogenicity of SARS‐CoV‐2. Therefore, we carried out a systematic review of human observational and interventional studies to investigate the role of some antioxidants such as vitamins A, E, D, and C, selenium, zinc, and α‐lipoic acid in the main clinical outcomes of subjects with COVID‐19. Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, and Medline were searched using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and non‐MeSH terms without restrictions. Finally, 36 studies for vitamins C and D, selenium, and zinc were included in this systematic review; however, no eligible studies were found for vitamins A and E as well as α‐lipoic acid. The results showed the promising role of vitamin C in inflammation, Horowitz index, and mortality; vitamin D in disease manifestations and severity, inflammatory markers, lung involvement, ventilation requirement, hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and mortality; selenium in cure rate and mortality; and zinc in ventilation requirement, hospitalization, ICU admission, biomarkers of inflammation and bacterial infection, and disease complications. In conclusion, it seems that antioxidants, especially vitamins C and D, selenium, and zinc, can improve multiple COVID‐19 clinical outcomes. Nevertheless, more studies are necessary to affirm these results.
Capital flow data—A guide for empirical analysis and real‐time tracking
Authors: Koepke Robin , Paetzold Simon
Published: September 2022

This paper provides an analytical overview of the most widely used capital flow datasets. The paper is written as a guide for academics who embark on empirical research projects and for policymakers who need timely information on capital flow developments to inform their decisions. We address common misconceptions about capital flow data and discuss differences between high‐frequency proxies for portfolio flows. In a nowcasting “horse race” we show that high‐frequency proxies have significant predictive content for portfolio flows from the balance of payments (BoP). We also construct a new dataset for academic use, consisting of monthly portfolio flows broadly consistent with BoP data.
Chronic endometritis positively correlates with the aggravation of intrauterine adhesions but has limited effects on reproductive prognosis with antibiotic application
Authors: Xiang Rui , Li Manchao , Gu Zhongjia , Liu Huijun , Zeng Haitao , Peng Jintao
Published: September 2022

Objective

To assess the effect of chronic endometritis (CE) diagnosed by CD138 staining on the aggravation of intrauterine adhesions (IUAs), and the reproductive prognosis after transcervical resection of adhesions (TCRA).

Methods

Sixty‐three patients with severe IUAs (group A) and 119 patients with moderate IUAs (group B) were included in this retrospective study. TCRA and endometrial biopsy with CD138 staining were performed. Participants in each group were classified into two subgroups: CE group and NCE group (without CE). Patients were treated with a course of oral antibiotics for 2 weeks after TCRA. Embryo transfer would be performed if patients had embryos after operations.

Results

Increased incidence of CE was found in group A (18/63, 28.57%) compared with group B (18/119, 15.13%) (P = 0.030). No significant differences were found in the comparisons of chemical pregnancy rate, early miscarriage rate, or full‐term pregnancy rate between the CE group and NCE group (P > 0.05), in either the subgroup analysis of group A and group B, or the total analysis.

Conclusion

CE has a positive correlation with the aggravation of IUAs. CE did not have a negative impact on the reproductive prognosis of patients with moderate or severe IUAs after TCRA followed by antibiotic administration.
Charting the landscape of the environmental exposome
Authors: Wei Xin , Huang Zinuo , Jiang Liuyiqi , Li Yueer , Zhang Xinyue , Leng Yuxin , Jiang Chao
Published: September 2022

The exposome depicts the total exposures in the lifetime of an organism. Human exposome comprises exposures from environmental and humanistic sources. Biological, chemical, and physical environmental exposures pose potential health threats, especially to susceptible populations. Although still in its nascent stage, we are beginning to recognize the vast and dynamic nature of the exposome. In this review, we systematically summarize the biological and chemical environmental exposomes in three broad environmental matrices—air, soil, and water; each contains several distinct subcategories, along with a brief introduction to the physical exposome. Disease‐related environmental exposures are highlighted, and humans are also a major source of disease‐related biological exposures. We further discuss the interactions between biological, chemical, and physical exposomes. Finally, we propose a list of outstanding challenges under the exposome research framework that need to be addressed to move the field forward. Taken together, we present a detailed landscape of environmental exposome to prime researchers to join this exciting new field.
General Bayesian time‐varying parameter vector autoregressions for modeling government bond yields
Authors: Fischer Manfred M. , Hauzenberger Niko , Huber Florian , Pfarrhofer Michael
Published: September 2022

US yield curve dynamics are subject to time‐variation, but there is ambiguity about its precise form. This paper develops a vector autoregressive (VAR) model with time‐varying parameters and stochastic volatility, which treats the nature of parameter dynamics as unknown. Coefficients can evolve according to a random walk, a Markov switching process, observed predictors, or depend on a mixture of these. To decide which form is supported by the data and to carry out model selection, we adopt Bayesian shrinkage priors. Our framework is applied to model the US yield curve. We show that the model forecasts well, and focus on selected in‐sample features to analyze determinants of structural breaks in US yield curve dynamics.
Raiders of the lost high‐frequency forecasts: New data and evidence on the efficiency of the Fed's forecasting
Authors: Chang Andrew C. , Levinson Trace J.
Published: September 2022

We introduce a new dataset of real gross domestic product (GDP) growth and core personal consumption expenditures (PCE) inflation forecasts produced by the staff of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. In contrast to the eight Greenbook forecasts a year the staff produce for Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meetings, our dataset has roughly weekly forecasts. We use these data to study whether the staff forecasts efficiently. Prespecified regressions of forecast errors on forecast revisions show the staff's GDP forecasts exhibit time‐varying inefficiency between FOMC meetings, and also show some evidence for inefficient inflation forecasts.
Investigating the structure, solubility, and antibacterial properties of silver‐ and copper‐doped hydroxyapatite
Authors: Weiss Katie M. , Kucko Sierra K. , Mokhtari Sahar , Keenan Timothy J. , Wren Anthony William
Published: September 2022

Hydroxyapatite (HA) powders were synthesized by the wet precipitation method in which two experimental compositions were synthesized (10 mol%Ag‐HAandCu‐HA) where the CaNO3content was partially substituted with AgNO3and Cu(NO3)2. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to characterize changes to theHAstructure as the dopants (Cu2+, Ag+) were incorporated into the materials structure. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) determined confirmed the compositions and found that the Ca/P ratio was 1.63 for the control (HA) whileAg‐HAandCu‐HAexhibited (X + Ca)/P ratios of 1.79 and 1.65, respectively. Antibacterial efficacies were evaluated againstE.coliandS.aureus, as a function of surface area and incubation time. The more prominent antibacterial effects were observed with bothAg‐HAandCu‐HAand the materials antibacterial influence was maintained with respect to time. Ion release studies of eachHAcomposition (15, 30, and 45 days) showed thatCu‐HAreleased significantly more Cu2+(36.1 ± 5.1 mg/L) than Ag+(2.9 ± 1.2 mg/L) fromAg‐HA. Analysis of each composition incubated in simulated body fluid (SBF) exhibited surface depositions that are likely calcium phosphate (CaP). Cytocompatibility testing in MC 3T3 Osteoblasts showed slight reductions in cell viability when tested using MTT assay, however cell adhesion studies were positive for each composition.
Aloe vera and ofloxacin incorporated chitosan hydrogels show antibacterial activity, stimulate angiogenesis and accelerate wound healing in full thickness rat model
Authors: Khan Ahmad , Andleeb Anisa , Azam Maryam , Tehseen Saimoon , Mehmood Azra , Yar Muhammad
Published: September 2022

Burns are potentially fatal and physically debilitating injuries, causing psychological and physical scars and result in chronic disabilities. A well vascularized wound bed is required to achieve complete and scar free wound closure. For many centuries, a variety of herbal plants have been used for wound healing, among these aloe vera (AV) has been found to be very effective in wound healing. Secondly, the main reason for delayed wound healing is bacterial infections. Ofloxacin (OX) has been reported as an active antibacterial drug for topical infections and it is effective against both positive and negative bacterial strains. In current research three different concentrations of OX (0.5, 2.5, and 5 mg) were loaded into chitosan (CS)/AV based hydrogels prepared by freeze gelation. The surface morphology of prepared CS/AV based OX loaded hydrogels were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In drug release analysis, 0.5 mg OX loaded hydrogel showed a sustained drug release behavior over 3 days period. An effective dose dependent antibacterial activity was exhibited by OX loaded hydrogels. Alamar Blue cells viability assay revealed that 0.5 mg OX hydrogel (CA 0.5 OX) showed comparatively better 3 T3 fibroblast cells proliferation as compared to CA 2.5 OX (2.5 mg OX) and CA 5 OX hydrogel (5 mg OX). Moreover, all OX loaded hydrogels showed good angiogenic activity in CAM bioassay while higher angiogenic potential was observed from CA 0.5 OX containing comparatively lower concentration of OX. These OX incorporated CS/AV based hydrogels are promising wound dressings for future clinical use.
The performance of exchange—correlation functionals in describing electron density parameters of saddle point structures along chemical reactions
Authors: Kossaka Macedo Gabriel , Haiduke Roberto Luiz Andrade
Published: September 2022

This work is focused on evaluating the performance of exchange‐correlation functionals from density functional theory in providing descriptor values derived from the electron density of saddle point structures (transition states) in chemical reactions. The properties investigated were obtained from the quantum theory of atoms in molecules, including atomic charges and electron density topological data at the bond critical points. In addition, parameters from the Interacting quantum atom energy partition were used as well in this comparative study. The reference values are attained in coupled cluster calculations with iterative single and double excitations (CCSD). Six elementary reactions are considered here: CO + H2 ↔ H2CO, CO + H2O ↔ HCOOH, HCN ↔ HNC, H + F2 ↔ HF + F, H + N2 ↔ HN2, and H + CO ↔ HCO. In general, the BB1K functional (hybrid‐meta‐generalized gradient approximation) provides the best description of these properties. Our study indicates that an intermediate percentage of nonlocal exact exchange, around 40%–55% (perhaps even larger), is probably required for attaining more accurate values with actual functionals, although this condition is not able of explaining all the trends observed.
Erdös–Hajnal conjecture for new infinite families of tournaments
Authors: Zayat Soukaina , Ghazal Salman
Published: September 2022

Erdös–Hajnal conjecture states that for every undirected graph there exists such that every undirected graph on vertices that does not contain as an induced subgraph contains a clique or a stable set of size at least . This conjecture has a directed equivalent version stating that for every tournament there exists such that every ‐free ‐vertex tournament contains a transitive subtournament of order at least . This conjecture is known to hold for a few infinite families of tournaments. In this article we construct two new infinite families of tournaments—the family of so‐called galaxies with spiders and the family of so‐called asterisms, and we prove the correctness of the conjecture for these two families.
Pure laparoscopic vs open right hepatectomy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: A propensity score‐matched analysis
Authors: Nam Yi‐yeon , Hong Suk Kyun , Hong Su young , Lee Sola , Choi YoungRok , Yi Nam‐Joon , Lee Kwang‐Woong , Suh Kyung‐Suk
Published: September 2022

Background/Purpose

Since minimally invasive surgery has been incorporated in overall surgery, pure laparoscopic technology is involved in most hepatectomies, including right hepatectomy, in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, its feasibility and safety in right hepatectomy are still controversial owing to the limited literature. This study aimed to compare the short‐ and long‐term outcomes of pure laparoscopic right hepatectomy (PLRH) with those of open right hepatectomy (ORH) in patients with HCC.

Methods

The prospectively collected medical records of 327 patients with HCC who underwent right hepatectomy between January 2010 and April 2020 at Seoul National University Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. We performed 1:1 propensity score matching between the PLRH and ORH groups. The primary end point was short‐term outcomes, including hospital stay, blood loss, and morbidity; the secondary end point was long‐term outcomes, including overall and recurrence‐free survival.

Results

Forty‐nine patients were included in each group. Patients who underwent PLRH had a shorter postoperative hospital stay than those who underwent ORH (12.2 vs 8.9 days; P < .001). The requirement for blood transfusion was significantly lower in the PLRH group than in the ORH group (10.2% vs 2.0%; P = .010). The operative time (P = .479) and proportion of major complications (P = .487) were comparable between the groups. There were no significant differences in overall survival (P = .524) and the recurrence‐free survival rate (P = .576) between the groups.

Conclusions

Postoperative outcomes, including oncological outcomes, were comparable between PLRH and ORH, showing that PLRH can be a safe and feasible option to replace ORH in patients with HCC.