bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of nutrient characteristics and bacterial community in agricultural soil groups for sustainable land management
Authors: Wongkiew Sumeth , Chaikaew Pasicha , Takrattanasaran Natta , Khamkajorn Thanachanok
Published: May 2022

The soil bacterial community is critical for understanding biological processes in soils and is used for agricultural soil management. The understanding of microorganisms and ecology in different soil groups classified based on soil properties (e.g., minerals, soil texture, location, nitrogen, phosphorus, organic carbon and pH, among others), is limited. To suggest soil management strategies using bacterial data, we classified soils into four groups based on physical–chemical characteristics and elucidated their relationships with soil nutrient characteristics and the bacterial community in agricultural fields in Saraburi Province, Thailand. Results show that soil groups with high bacterial diversity had positive correlations with total Kjeldahl nitrogen and available phosphorus but were negatively affected by total organic carbon and pH levels. Dominant bacterial genera included Lactobacillus, Phascolarctobacterium, Prevotella, Clostridium, Gaiellales and Blautia. Significant key biomarkers were found (p < 0.05). Nutrient-rich soil groups (high available P, acidic pH) were found with genus Agromyces, while low nutrient soil groups (low available P, basic pH) were found with Hydrogenispora, Ignavibacterium and Bauldia. Based on co-occurrence networks, organic degrading bacteria functioned with other bacteria at high degrees of interconnections, suggesting organic amendment, biostimulation and biodegradation using nutrient-rich organic substrates could be used for agricultural soil improvements.
Politicizing mask-wearing: predicting the success of behavioral interventions among republicans and democrats in the U.S.
Authors: Dimant Eugen , Clemente Elena Giulia , Pieper Dylan , Dreber Anna , Gelfand Michele ,   Behavioral Science Units Consortium, Hallsworth Michael , Holzwarth Aline , Tantia Piyush
Published: May 2022

Scientists and policymakers seek to choose effective interventions that promote preventative health measures. We evaluated whether academics, behavioral science practitioners, and laypeople (N = 1034) were able to forecast the effectiveness of seven different messages compared to a baseline message for Republicans and Democrats separately. These messages were designed to nudge mask-wearing attitudes, intentions, and behaviors. When examining predictions across political parties, forecasters predicted larger effects than those observed for Democrats compared to Republicans and made more accurate predictions for Republicans compared to Democrats. These results are partly driven by a lack of nudge effects on Democrats, as reported in Gelfand et al. (J Exp Soc Psychol, 2021). Academics and practitioners made more accurate predictions compared to laypeople. Although forecasters' predictions were correlated with the nudge interventions, all groups overestimated the observed results. We discuss potential reasons for why the forecasts did not perform better and how more accurate forecasts of behavioral intervention outcomes could potentially provide insight that can help save resources and increase the efficacy of interventions.
Associations, overlaps and dissociations between apathy and fatigue
Authors: Daumas Lyne , Corbel Camille , Zory Raphaël , Corveleyn Xavier , Fabre Roxane , Robert Philippe , Manera Valeria
Published: May 2022

Apathy and fatigue have a high prevalence in many pathological populations, but they are also present in healthy adults. The relationship between apathy and fatigue, which are both multidimensional, is still poorly understood. This study aims to describe the associations between the subdimensions of both apathy and fatigue and to investigate their overlaps and dissociations in healthy people. 729 participants (mean age = 30.8 ± 10.7 years) completed online self-assessment questionnaires. The Apathy Motivation Index and Dimensional Apathy Scale were used to assess apathy. The Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory was used to assess fatigue. The executive dimension of apathy showed the strongest correlations with mental fatigue and the two appeared to be underpinned by the same latent factor, according to exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The factor structure of EFA showed overlaps between behavioral apathy and both reduced motivation and activity in fatigue. Emotional and social dimensions of apathy were separately underpinned by a latent factor that comprised no items of fatigue. Apathy and fatigue have reduced activity and mental difficulties in common, whereas emotional and social disorders distinguish apathy from fatigue. This has important implications for assessing apathy and fatigue in the general population, and may be relevant for clinical practice.
Reconstruction of maxillofacial bone defects using patient-specific long-lasting titanium implants
Authors: Lim Ho-Kyung , Choi Young-Jun , Choi Won-Cheul , Song In-Seok , Lee Ui-Lyong
Published: May 2022

The objective of this retrospective study is to verify the effectiveness and safety of patient-specific titanium implants on maxillofacial bones, with a long-term follow-up. Total 16 patients with various maxillofacial defects underwent reconstruction using patient-specific titanium implants. Titanium implants, manufactured by electron beam melting, selective laser sintering, or milling, were inserted into the maxilla, mandible, or zygoma. Long-term follow‐up (36.7 ± 20.1 months) was conducted after the surgery. Bone fusion of the titanium implant body, postoperative infection, implant malunion, functional results, patient satisfaction, subsidence, osteolysis around the implants, and complications were recorded and analyzed at the last follow-up. Of the 28 implants, only one failed to unite with the bone; therefore, revision surgery was performed. No osteolysis or subsidence around the titanium implants nor adverse events were observed; the mean VAS score for satisfaction was 9. All patients enrolled in this trial were esthetically and functionally satisfied with their surgical results, and fixation failure and esthetic dissatisfaction complications were well resolved. Patient-specific titanium showed satisfactory outcomes when used to treat various oral and maxillofacial defects. A 3D printed titanium implant can be effectively used in the reconstruction of the zygoma and mandible instead of autogenous bone without donor site morbidity.
Axial myopia, a protective factor for diabetic retinopathy-role of vascular endothelial growth factor
Authors: Kulshrestha Ashish , Singh Nirbhai , Moharana Bruttendu , Gupta Parul Chawla , Ram Jagat , Singh Ramandeep
Published: May 2022

Long axial length is one of the ocular protective factors in development of diabetic retinopathy (DR). In this study we examined the effect of axial length (AL) on aqueous humor vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels in patients with diabetes mellitus with or without DR. Forty-eight eyes of 48 participants were divided into three groups of 16 each. Group A consisted of non-diabetic patients, Group B had diabetic patients without DR, and Group C had diabetic patients with treatment-naive non-proliferative DR (NPDR). The groups were further subdivided based on axial lengths i.e., AL ≤ 23.30 mm (A1, B1, C1) and AL > 23.30 mm (A2, B2, C2). Undiluted aqueous humor was obtained during cataract surgery to measure the VEGF levels. We observed significant decrease in VEGF concentration in patients with AL ≥ 23.30 mm as compared with AL ≤ 23.30 mm in non-diabetic as well as diabetic patients. As the eye elongates, there is less secretion of VEGF in non-diabetics as well in diabetics with or without DR. Our findings strengthened the concept that an increase in AL leads to less VEGF in diabetic eyes, thus leading to less severe DR changes.
Diagnostic performance of oral swab specimen for SARS-CoV-2 detection with rapid point-of-care lateral flow antigen test
Authors: Mane Arati , Jain Shilpa , Jain Ankita , Pereira Michael , Sirsat Atul , Pathak Gaurav , Bhoi Vikalp , Bhavsar Shailaja , Panda Samiran
Published: May 2022

We evaluated the performance of oral swab specimen both health-care worker (HCW) collected and self-collected for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) detection with rapid antigen test (RAT) as compared to reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Of the 529 participants enrolled, 121 (22.8%) were RT-PCR positive. Among the RT-PCR positives, 62 (51.2%) were RAT positive using oral swab. When compared with RT-PCR, RAT with oral swab had sensitivity and specificity of 63.3 and 96.8% respectively among symptomatic individuals. No statistically significant difference was observed in RAT positivity with HCW collection and self-collection, p = 0.606. Ct values were significantly lower in RT-PCR and RAT positive samples (ORF gene: 18.85 ± 4.36; E gene: 18.72 ± 4.84) as compared to RT-PCR positive and RAT negative samples (ORF gene: 26.98 ± 7.09; E gene: 26.97 ± 7.07), p < 0.0001. Our study demonstrated moderate sensitivity of RAT with oral swab in symptomatic individuals. Oral swab was the preferred sampling by almost all participants in terms of convenience and comfort as compared to nasopharyngeal swab. Oral swabs have utility for SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection among symptomatic individuals residing in remote rural areas and can serve as an initial screening tool during COVID-19 spikes when cases rise exponentially and laboratory capacities for RT-PCR testing become overwhelmed.
Coherence resource power of isocoherent states
Authors: Losada Marcelo , Bosyk Gustavo M. , Freytes Hector , Sergioli Giuseppe
Published: May 2022

We address the problem of comparing quantum states with the same amount of coherence in terms of their coherence resource power given by the preorder of incoherent operations. For any coherence measure, two states with null or maximum value of coherence are equivalent with respect to that preorder. This is no longer true for intermediate values of coherence when pure states of quantum systems with dimension greater than two are considered. In particular, we show that, for any value of coherence (except the extreme values, zero and the maximum), there are infinite incomparable pure states with that value of coherence. These results are not peculiarities of a given coherence measure, but common properties of every well-behaved coherence measure. Furthermore, we show that for qubit mixed states there exist coherence measures, such as the relative entropy of coherence, that admit incomparable isocoherent states.
Multiple sclerosis genetic and non-genetic factors interact through the transient transcriptome
Authors: Umeton Renato , Bellucci Gianmarco , Bigi Rachele , Romano Silvia , Buscarinu Maria Chiara , Reniè Roberta , Rinaldi Virginia , Pizzolato Umeton Raffaella , Morena Emanuele , Romano Carmela , Mechelli Rosella , Salvetti Marco , Ristori Giovanni
Published: May 2022

A clinically actionable understanding of multiple sclerosis (MS) etiology goes through GWAS interpretation, prompting research on new gene regulatory models. Our previous investigations suggested heterogeneity in etiology components and stochasticity in the interaction between genetic and non-genetic factors. To find a unifying model for this evidence, we focused on the recently mapped transient transcriptome (TT), that is mostly coded by intergenic and intronic regions, with half-life of minutes. Through a colocalization analysis, here we demonstrate that genomic regions coding for the TT are significantly enriched for MS-associated GWAS variants and DNA binding sites for molecular transducers mediating putative, non-genetic, determinants of MS (vitamin D deficiency, Epstein Barr virus latent infection, B cell dysfunction), indicating TT-coding regions as MS etiopathogenetic hotspots. Future research comparing cell-specific transient and stable transcriptomes may clarify the interplay between genetic variability and non-genetic factors causing MS. To this purpose, our colocalization analysis provides a freely available data resource at www.mscoloc.com.
Characteristics of summer hourly precipitation under different urbanization background in central China
Authors: Tang Yonglan , Xu Guirong , Wan Rong , Wang Xiaofang
Published: May 2022

The relationship between sub-daily precipitation and urbanization is widely concerned because short-term precipitation is sensitive to urbanization and difficult to predict. Using the data of summer hourly precipitation and urban development during 2007–2019 at four urban stations and an atmospheric background monitoring station in central China, this study investigates the characteristics of hourly precipitation and hourly extreme precipitation (HEP) under different urbanization background. It is found that high urbanization level may benefit precipitation intensity but not for accumulated precipitation amount and precipitation frequency, and it is also conducive to the occurrence of hourly precipitation within [20, 50) mm. Precipitation amount and frequency for hourly precipitation within [5, 50) mm have similar diurnal variation at fixed station, yet the diurnal variation of precipitation intensity is insignificant. The differences in temporal variation of precipitation are related to urbanization and terrain. Both high urbanization level and speed are conducive to summer HEP; especially summer HEP intensity may increase gradually under sustainable urbanization development. Although growth-type HEP occurs frequently with main contribution to total HEP precipitation amount in central China regardless of urbanization level, the frequency and contribution of continuous-type HEP tends to increase under high urbanization level and speed.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of fusion rate enhancements and bone graft options for spine surgery
Authors: Tavares Wagner M. , de França Sabrina Araujo , Paiva Wellingson S. , Teixeira Manoel J.
Published: May 2022

Our study aimed to evaluate differences in outcomes of patients submitted to spinal fusion using different grafts measuring the effectiveness of spinal fusion rates, pseudarthrosis rates, and adverse events. Applying the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement, this systematic review and meta-analysis identified 64 eligible articles. The main inclusion criteria were adult patients that were submitted to spinal fusion, autologous iliac crest (AIC), allograft (ALG), alloplastic (ALP; hydroxyapatite, rhBMP-2, rhBMP-7, or the association between them), and local bone (LB), whether in addition to metallic implants or not, was applied. We made a comparison among those groups to evaluate the presence of differences in outcomes, such as fusion rate, hospital stay, follow-up extension (6, 12, 24, and 48 months), pseudarthrosis rate, and adverse events. Sixty-four studies were identified. LB presented significantly higher proportions of fusion rates (95.3% CI 89.7–98.7) compared to the AIC (88.6% CI 84.8–91.9), ALG (87.8% CI 80.8–93.4), and ALP (85.8% CI 75.7–93.5) study groups. Pseudarthrosis presented at a significantly lower pooled proportion of ALG studies (4.8% CI 0.1–15.7) compared to AIC (8.6% CI 4.2–14.2), ALP (7.1% CI 0.9–18.2), and LB (10.3% CI 1.8–24.5). ALP and AIC studies described significantly more cases of adverse events (80 events/404 patients and 860 events/2001 patients, respectively) compared to LB (20 events/311 patients) and ALG (73 events/459 patients). Most studies presented high risk-of-bias scores. Based on fusion rates and adverse events proportions, LB showed a superior trend among the graft cases we analyzed. However, our review revealed highly heterogeneous data and a need for more rigorous studies to better address and assist surgeons’ choices of the best spinal grafts.
Non-canonical Wnt signaling participates in Jagged1-induced osteo/odontogenic differentiation in human dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Kornsuthisopon Chatvadee , Chansaenroj Ajjima , Manokawinchoke Jeeranan , Tompkins Kevin A. , Pirarat Nopadon , Osathanon Thanaphum
Published: May 2022

Osteoblast differentiation requires the interaction of various cell signaling pathways to modulate cell responses. Notch and Wnt signaling are among the crucial pathways that control numerous biological processes, including osteo/odontogenic differentiation. The aim of the present study was to examine the involvement of Wnt signaling in the Jagged1-induced osteo/odontogenic differentiation in human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). The Wnt-related gene expression was analyzed from publicly available data of Jagged1-treated human dental pulp cells. The mRNA expression of Wnt ligands (WNT2B, WNT5A, WNT5B, and WNT16) and Wnt inhibitors (DKK1, DKK2, and SOST) were confirmed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Among the Wnt ligands, WNT2B and WNT5A mRNA levels were upregulated after Jagged1 treatment. In contrast, the Wnt inhibitors DKK1, DKK2, and SOST mRNA levels were downregulated. Recombinant WNT5A, but not WNT2B, significantly promoted in vitro mineral deposition by hDPSCs. Wnt signaling inhibition using IWP-2, but not DKK1, inhibited Jagged1-induced alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, mineralization, and osteo/odontogenic marker gene expression in hDPSCs. In conclusion, Jagged1 promoted hDPSC osteo/odontogenic differentiation by modulating the non-canonical Wnt pathway.
Experimental and theoretical evaluations on Oleuropein as a natural origin corrosion inhibitor for copper in acidic environment
Authors: Deyab M. A. , Mohsen Q. , Bloise E. , Lazzoi M. R. , Mele G.
Published: May 2022

Copper corrosion in acidic cleaning solutions is a major worry for heat exchangers. Corrosion inhibitors derived from natural sources might be a viable option. The isolation of Oleuropein compound from olive leaf and investigation of its anticorrosion potential for copper in 1.0 M H2SO4solution are reported here. All experimental results from LC–MS, FT-IR,1H and13C-NMR characterizations support the molecular structure of Oleuropein. Electrochemical and gravimetric tests were used to evaluate the corrosion inhibition capabilities of Oleuropein. According to polarization investigation, Oleuropein is a mixed-type inhibitor. Oleuropein's inhibitory efficacy increases with concentration, attaining an optimum value (98.92%) at 100 mg L−1. At high temperatures, Oleuropein can be considered an efficient inhibitor. Thermodynamic variables for the activation operation and copper dissolution were computed and addressed as well. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) examinations revealed that Oleuropein produced an outer layer on the copper surface, shielding it from severe acid damage. Quantum chemical simulations were employed to propose molecular explanations for Oleuropein's inhibitory actions.
Factors affecting compliance with national accreditation essential safety standards in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Althumairi Arwa , Alzahrani Amal , Alanzi Turki , Al Wahabi Salem , Alrowaie Summaya , Aljaffary Afnan , Aljabri Duaa
Published: May 2022

Accreditation is a widespread culture internationally and nationally. The effectiveness of compliance with accreditation standards was positively correlated with health care settings’ performance in multiple aspects: leadership, professional performance, patient safety and organizational culture. There is limited knowledge of the national compliance rate with accreditation standards. Therefore, it is important to assess the hospital compliance with accreditation rate in the Kingdom Saudi Arabia (KSA) and its related factors. This paper presents a quantitative cross-sectional study. Data were extracted from the annual Essential Safety Requirement (ESR) survey database from the Central Board for Accreditation of Health care Institutions (CBAHI) research center during the period 2016 to 2018. Hospitals that started their operation after the first ESR survey round in 2016 or shut down during the study period were excluded. The hospital scoring was on a scale of 0 to 100 and classified as follows: score 2 if the hospital satisfactory compliance (Fully Met) was ≥ 80% and score 1 if particular compliance (Partially Met) was ≥ 50% to < 80%. Then, a score of 0 indicated insufficient compliance (Not Met) when < 50% and a score of not applicable (NA) if the standard does not apply to the hospital. A total of 437 hospitals were surveyed in 20 regions in the KSA and had an overall compliance rate on average that was higher among private hospitals than among public hospitals (77% vs. 66%). Overall, private hospitals had a significantly better compliance rate than public hospitals (mean rate = 84% vs. 68%, respectively, P = 0.019). Large hospitals had more compliance with some standards than smaller hospitals. After adjusting for the year of the survey report, the private hospital type was more compliant than the public hospital. This study supports mandatory accreditation programs for both public and private health sectors, with increased monitoring by the concerned parties (i.e., CBAHI and the Ministry of Health). The authors encourage the application of accreditation for specialized and independent health services.
Usefulness of the CHAMPS score for risk stratification in lower gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Tajika Munehiko , Matsuhashi Tamotsu , Shimodaira Yosuke , Fukuda Sho , Tsuji Tsuyotoshi , Sugawara Kae , Saruta Youhei , Takahashi Yasutaka , Watanabe Kenta , Iijima Katsunori
Published: May 2022

We have recently developed a simple prediction score, the CHAMPS score, to predict in-hospital mortality in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding. In this study, the primary outcome of this study was the usefulness of the CHAMPS score for predicting in-hospital mortality with lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). Consecutive adult patients who were hospitalized with LGIB at two tertiary academic medical centers from 2015 to 2020 were retrospectively enrolled. The performance for predicting outcomes with CHAMPS score was assessed by a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and compared with four existing scores. In 387 patients enrolled in this study, 39 (10.1%) of whom died during the hospitalization. The CHAMPS score showed good performance in predicting in-hospital mortality in LGIB patients with an AUC (95% confidence interval) of 0.80 (0.73–0.87), which was significantly higher in comparison to the existing scores. The risk of in-hospital mortality as predicted by the CHAMPS score was shown: low risk (score ≤ 1), 1.8%; intermediate risk (score 2 or 3), 15.8%; and high risk (score ≥ 4), 37.1%. The CHAMPS score is useful for predicting in-hospital mortality in patients with LGIB.
Foot–ankle therapeutic exercise program can improve gait speed in people with diabetic neuropathy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Monteiro Renan L. , Ferreira Jane S. S. P. , Silva Érica Q. , Cruvinel-Júnior Ronaldo H. , Veríssimo Jady L. , Bus Sicco A. , Sacco Isabel C. N.
Published: May 2022

This study sought to determine whether a foot–ankle therapeutic exercise program can improve daily physical activity (i.e. number of steps) and fast and self-selected gait speed in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). In this single-blind randomized controlled trial and intention-to-treat analysis, 78 volunteers with DPN were allocated into a control group, which received usual care, and an intervention group (IG), which received usual care plus a 12-week foot–ankle exercise program. The adherence at 12 weeks rate in the IG was 92.3% (36 participants) and the dropout was 5.1% in the control group (2 participants). The number of steps and self-selected gait speed did not change significantly in either group (p > 0.05), although a 1,365-step difference between groups were observed at 1-year followup. The 12-week foot–ankle therapeutic exercises improved significantly fast-gait speed (primary outcome) (p = 0.020), ankle range of motion (p = 0.048), and vibration perception (secondary outcomes) (p = 0.030), compared with usual-care at 12 weeks. At 24 weeks, the IG showed better quality of life than controls (p = 0.048). At 1-year, fast-gait speed and vibration perception remained higher in the IG versus controls. Overall, the program may be a complementary treatment strategy for improving musculoskeletal and functional deficits related to DPN.

Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT02790931 (06/06/2016).
Normalized unitary synaptic signaling of the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex predicted by deep learning of experimental recordings
Authors: Moradi Keivan , Aldarraji Zainab , Luthra Megha , Madison Grey P. , Ascoli Giorgio A.
Published: May 2022

Biologically realistic computer simulations of neuronal circuits require systematic data-driven modeling of neuron type-specific synaptic activity. However, limited experimental yield, heterogeneous recordings conditions, and ambiguous neuronal identification have so far prevented the consistent characterization of synaptic signals for all connections of any neural system. We introduce a strategy to overcome these challenges and report a comprehensive synaptic quantification among all known neuron types of the hippocampal-entorhinal network. First, we reconstructed >2600 synaptic traces from ∼1200 publications into a unified computational representation of synaptic dynamics. We then trained a deep learning architecture with the resulting parameters, each annotated with detailed metadata such as recording method, solutions, and temperature. The model learned to predict the synaptic properties of all 3,120 circuit connections in arbitrary conditions with accuracy approaching the intrinsic experimental variability. Analysis of data normalized and completed with the deep learning model revealed that synaptic signals are controlled by few latent variables associated with specific molecular markers and interrelating conductance, decay time constant, and short-term plasticity. We freely release the tools and full dataset of unitary synaptic values in 32 covariate settings. Normalized synaptic data can be used in brain simulations, and to predict and test experimental hypothesis.
Anti-corrosive Applications of Iron, Copper and Titanium Oxides
Authors: Aslam Ruby , Mobin Mohammad , Zehra Saman , Verma Chandrabhan , Aslam Jeenat
Published: May 2022

When metals come into contact with moisture and air, they liberate electrons and form metallic ions. Corrosion is a natural, spontaneous process that results in the metal being stable. Corrosion may be controlled in several ways. For many engineering fields, nanotechnology is an emerging solution for protecting metals and alloys against various extreme corrosive conditions. Metal oxide nanoparticles (MNPs) have been used to prevent corrosion in different structural materials, including steels, copper, aluminum, and magnesium alloys. MNPs have been generated using a variety of processes, including sol–gel, anodization, electroplating, and electroless plating. This chapter focuses on the fundamental science, synthesis, characterization, and anti-corrosive application of copper oxide, titanium oxide, and iron oxide.
Natural Fiber-based Nanocomposites as Corrosion Inhibitors
Authors: Kumar Das Atanu , Islam Md Nazrul , Akter Afroza , Promie Ahsan Rajib , Billah Md. Morsaline , Akanda Md Jahurul Haque
Published: May 2022

Corrosion constitutes one of the troublesome issues in different industries, i.e., automotive, marine, construction, oil and gas. Protection from corrosion aims at reducing maintenance costs with higher production for the industry. Due to high toxicity, chromate-based coatings remain an environmental concern. This has necessitated the development of an organic-based coating with higher anti-corrosive performance. The adhesion capability of coating on metal surfaces can be improved through the incorporation of nanocomposites, which in turn can protect the metal from corrosion. Owing to their novel mechanical and electrochemical properties, types of nanocomposites dictate the types of nanostructured filler. The inclusion of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) in epoxy-Zn rich coating shows better anti-corrosive performance for mild steel. In addition, silver nanoparticles and chitosan-based nanocomposite coating can protect mild steel from corrosion. However, the performance of the nanocomposite coating depends on the types of nanoparticles and additives, the concentration of the dispersed particles and mixing processes. In this chapter, the use of natural fiber-based nanocomposites in corrosion protection, and their synthesis and performance have been discussed. Alongside this, the potential of natural fiber-based nanocomposites for corrosion protection has been pointed out.
Identifying chemical and physical changes in wide-gap semiconductors using real-time and near ambient-pressure XPS
Authors: Astley Simon , Hu Di , Hazeldine Kerry , Ash Johnathan , Cross Rachel E. , Cooil Simon , Allen Martin W. , Evans James , James Kelvin , Venturini Federica , Grinter David C. , Ferrer Pilar , Arrigo Rosa , Held Georg , Williams Gruffudd T. , Evans D. Andrew
Published: May 2022

The temperature-dependence of photoemission from a gold alloy, n-type β-Ga2O3 and p-type diamond reveals reversible and irreversible changes in energy, due to changes in surface chemistry, band-bending, thermal expansion and a surface photovoltage.
Real-time visualization of the Suzuki reaction using surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy and a moveable magnetic nanoparticle film
Authors: Yin Lu , Wu Qian , Zhang Chenjie , Xu Minmin , Yuan Yaxian , Yao Jianlin
Published: May 2022

SERS has been developed as a promising operando technique to visualize the processes of Suzuki reaction based on a moveable Fe3O4@Au nanoparticle film. It opens a new window for screening the reaction conditions effectively.
A stereospecific total synthesis of dl-hexahydroapoerysopine
Authors: Fang Da-Shu , Deng Jun , Zheng Jianfeng , Li Wei-Dong Z.
Published: May 2022

An efficient acid-mediated stereospecific skeletal rearrangement for the total synthesis of dl-hexahydroapoerysopine, an intriguing and historically important Apo rearrangement product of the aromatic Erythrina alkaloids, is described.
Fast one-pot synthesis of a Se-rich MnCdSe solid solution for highly efficient cocatalyst-free photocatalytic H2 evolution
Authors: Liu Jieqian , Bao Yining , Liu Yimin , Yang Jingren , Fujita Toyohisa , Zeng Deqian
Published: May 2022

A novel Se-rich MnCdSe solid solution with tunable band structures and enormous Se active sites was prepared via a facile one-pot method, and presents highly efficient visible-light-induced photocatalytic H2 evolution without any cocatalyst.
Novel SnO2(ZnO:Sn)m superlattice nanoparticles for ultra-low ppb-level H2S detection
Authors: Huang Jianan , Xu Bojia , Ge Binghui , Xu Yi , Cao Baobao
Published: May 2022

Novel SnO2(ZnO:Sn)m superlattice nanoparticles were synthesized by a simple method of annealing ZnO nanoparticles precoated with a sol–gel Sn–Zn–O precursor, showing an ultra-low H2S detection limit of 5 ppb with good selectivity.
Topological fine structure of smectic grain boundaries and tetratic disclination lines within three-dimensional smectic liquid crystals
Authors: Monderkamp Paul A. , Wittmann René , te Vrugt Michael , Voigt Axel , Wittkowski Raphael , Löwen Hartmut
Published: May 2022

Coexisting nematic and tetratic order at grain boundaries in 3d smectic liquid crystals. For hard rods confined to a spherical cap (left), two planes with low nematic order (middle) are observed, bounded by tetratic line disclinations (right).
Non-Markovian diffusion of excitons in layered perovskites and transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Kurilovich Aleksandr A. , Mantsevich Vladimir N. , Mardoukhi Yousof , Stevenson Keith J. , Chechkin Aleksei V. , Palyulin Vladimir V.
Published: May 2022

The diffusion of excitons in perovskites and transition metal dichalcogenides shows clear anomalous, subdiffusive behaviour in experiments. We develop a non-Markovian mobile–immobile model which explains this behaviour.
Promotional effect of Sn additive on the chlorine resistance over SnMnOx/LDO catalysts for synergistic removal of NOx and o-DCB
Authors: Wang Jiaqing , Xing Yi , Su Wei , Li Kongzhai , Ma Zhiliang , Zhang Wenbo , Zhang Hui
Published: May 2022

Sn additive greatly improves the chlorine resistance of manganese-based catalysts by introducing more acid sites.
A heterogeneous Rh/CPOL-BINAPa&PPh3 catalyst for hydroformylation of olefins: chemical and DFT insights into active species and the roles of BINAPa and PPh3
Authors: Zhang Jinrong , Li Jin , Li Kechao , Zhao Jinyu , Yang Zhengyi , Zong Lingbo , Chen Jianbin , Xie Cong-Xia , Zhao Xiu-Xiu , Jia Xiaofei
Published: May 2022

A reusable Rh/CPOL-BINAPa&PPh3 catalyst was used for heterogeneous hydroformylation of olefins, affording the corresponding linear aldehydes with excellent regioselectivities and high TON values. The active Rh–H species were studied in detail.
Emerging investigator series: contributions of reactive nitrogen species to transformations of organic compounds in water: a critical review
Authors: Scholes Rachel C.
Published: May 2022

Reactive nitrogen species (RNS) pose a potential risk to drinking water quality because they react with organic compounds to form toxic byproducts.
Understanding trends in the mercury oxidation activity of single-atom catalysts
Authors: Yang Weijie , Chen Xuelu , Feng Yajun , Wang Fei , Gao Zhengyang , Liu Yanfeng , Ding Xunlei , Li Hao
Published: May 2022

Transition metal single-atom catalysts with nitrogen-doped carbon substrates were designed and analyzed as the catalysts to oxidize Hg0 with O2, using density functional theory calculations, scaling relation analysis, and microkinetic modeling.
Metal-free photo-induced heteroarylations of C–H and C–C bonds of alcohols by flow chemistry
Authors: Cao Zhu , Ji Meishan , Wang Xinxin , Wu Xinxin , Li Yahong , Zhu Chen
Published: May 2022

Practical, metal-free heteroarylations of inert C–H and C–C bonds of unprotected aliphatic alcohols are achieved in a ‘stop-flow’ micro-tubing reactor, and can be readily scaled up by a continuous-flow method.
μ-Oxo-bridged iron(iii) complexes for the selective reduction of aromatic ketones catalyzed through base promoted in situ nanoparticle formation
Authors: Tyagi Nidhi , Viji Mambattakkara , Ramaiah Danaboyina
Published: May 2022

Selective TH of aromatic ketones catalyzed by μ-oxo-diiron complexes and in situ NP formation in the presence of a base gave excellent yields (∼99–100%).
Purification of silicon from waste photovoltaic cells and its value-added application in lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Yang Nina , Xi Fengshuo , Chen Xiuhua , Li Shaoyuan , Ma Wenhui , Lei Yu , Deng Rong
Published: May 2022

A facile and promising method was proposed to make full use of waste photovoltaic cell natural characteristics by fabricating the PSi/Li/N@C composite as high-performance LIB anode material.
Machine learning-based prediction of the adsorption energy of CO on boron-doped graphene
Authors: Zhang Qingwei , Zeng Rui , Lu Yunhua , Zhang Junan , Zhou Wanji , Yu Jintao
Published: May 2022

To accurately and quickly investigate the adsorption ability of different boron-doped graphene for CO, 1864 different sets of CO adsorption energy on boron-doped graphene were obtained by simulation, and an overall framework based on machine learning was proposed.
Enhanced dielectric properties of PVDF-based composite film with BaTiO3@SrTiO3nanoparticles
Authors: Zhao Yang , Zhang Yongming , He Zemin , Zhang Huimin , Wang Haiyang , Zhao Yuzhen
Published: May 2022

(a) SEM image and (c) TEM image of BT particles before coating. (b) SEM image and (d) TEM image of BT@ST nanoparticles.
Facile synthesis of nanosized mordenite and beta zeolites with improved catalytic performance: non-surfactant diquaternary ammonium compounds as structure-directing agents
Authors: Li Shaojie , van de Poll Rim C. J. , Kosinov Nikolay , Hensen Emiel J. M.
Published: May 2022

Nanosized MOR and BEA zeolites were directly synthesized using simple diquaternary ammonium compounds. The nanosized zeolites show improved catalytic performance in Friedel–Crafts and n-alkane hydroconversion reactions.
Palladium-catalyzed [3 + 3] annulations of 1-alkyl-indolin-2-imines and dialkyl (2-methylenepropane-1,3-diyl) dicarbonates
Authors: Li Yuming , Jie Jiyang , Xiao Weixin , Yang Haijun , Fu Hua
Published: May 2022

Palladium-catalyzed [3 + 3] annulations of 1-alkyl-indolin-2-imines and dialkyl (2-methylenepropane-1,3-diyl) dicarbonates leading to pyrido[2,3-b]indole derivatives have been developed for the first time.
Computational insights on the origin of enantioselectivity in reactions with diarylprolinol silyl ether catalysts via a radical pathway
Authors: Lam Ching Ching , Goodman Jonathan M.
Published: May 2022

The stereoselective reaction of 1,4-dicarbonyls with diarylprolinol silyl ether catalysts was studied with force field and density functional theory calculations.
Transition-metal-free, visible-light-induced multicomponent synthesis of allylic amines and tetrahydroquinolines
Authors: Wang Jian
Published: May 2022

A visible-light-induced, 1,2,3,5-tetrakis-(carbazolyl)-4,6-dicyanobenzene (4CzIPN) catalyzed synthesis of allylic amines andtetrahydroquinolines through ‘all-alkyl’ α-amino radicals and anilinoalkyl radicals has been developed.
Effects of oppositely charged moieties on the self-assembly and biophysicochemical properties of polyurethane micelles
Authors: Pan Zhicheng , Yang Guangxuan , Liu Jian , Yuan Jinfeng , Pan Mingwang , Li Jiehua , Tan Hong
Published: May 2022

The interchain electrostatic attraction by oppositely charged moieties severely disturbs the function of GQA in micelles, leading to poor self-assembly, micellization, and stabilization. Longer mPEG chain cannot fully alleviate this negative effect.
Molecularly imprinted polymer nanogels targeting the HAV motif in cadherins inhibit cell–cell adhesion and migration
Authors: Medina Rangel Paulina X. , Mier Alejandra , Moroni Elena , Merlier Franck , Gheber Levi A. , Vago Razi , Maffucci Irene , Tse Sum Bui Bernadette , Haupt Karsten
Published: May 2022

Molecularly imprinted polymer nanogels (MIPs) as synthetic antibody mimics against the HAVDI epitope of N-cadherin specifically inhibit cell–cell aggregation and tumor cell invasiveness by blocking cadherin-mediated interactions.
Stereoisomer effect on ferroelectric nematics: stabilization and phase behavior diversification
Authors: Zhou Junchen , Xia Runli , Huang Mingjun , Aya Satoshi
Published: May 2022

Stabilization and diversification of phase behaviors in ferroelectric nematics driven by a stereoisomer effect are observed, which in turn modulates the viscoelastic and ferroelectric properties.
Double-dome superconductivity in germanium phosphides
Authors: Fei Ge , Duan Shuai , Cui Yangfan , Liu Yunxian , Chen Xin , Liu Xiaobing
Published: May 2022

Double-dome superconductivity in phosphorous-rich germanides was investigated by first-principles calculations. The results revealed a maximal Tc ∼ 20 K in newly predicted I4/m GeP4 at 120 GPa, attributed to the strong electron-phonon coupling.
Caregiver Burden in Head and Neck Cancer Dysphagia Cases
Authors: Nund Rebecca L. , Brown Bena
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

The medical complications and psychosocial impacts of dysphagia on people with head and neck cancer (HNC) are well recognized in research and clinical practice. Improved survival rates and the shift to outpatient care have resulted in an increasing demand for family members to take on a caregiving role in the home. Caregivers must perform a variety of tasks on a daily basis in support of people with dysphagia, which they may not feel adequately prepared to take on. The purpose of this article is to describe the current literature regarding identifying caregivers of people with dysphagia in HNC and explore the research to date on providing support to caregivers of people with dysphagia in HNC.

Conclusions:

Despite the recognized importance, there are a limited number of instruments available to accurately identify and measure the impact of dysphagia in HNC on caregivers. Further to this, there are currently no interventions that have specifically been developed to support caregivers of people with dysphagia in HNC. In the absence of evidence-based interventions, clinicians can draw on the principles of patient- and family-centered care in order to better meet the needs of people with dysphagia and their caregivers.
Asynchronous mode‐dependent sampled‐data control of non‐homogeneous Markovian jump linear systems via an improved looped‐functional approach
Authors: Nguyen Khanh Hieu , Park PooGyeon , Kim Sung Hyun
Published: May 2022

This paper investigates the asynchronous mode‐dependent sampled‐data control synthesis for non‐homogeneous Markovian jump systems subject to generalised transition rates and bounded conditional probabilities. To increase the reality in system modelling, the asynchronous phenomenon between plant mode and sampled plant mode (i.e. control mode) is explored along with the non‐homogeneous nature of the Markov process, and the time variability of the conditional probabilities indicating the degree of the asynchronous phenomenon is imposed on the stabilisation process. Moreover, to achieve less conservative results, a reinforced looped‐functional is established by introducing two novel time‐integrated states, so that more detailed state information can be utilised during the stabilisation process, and an effective relaxation technique is proposed so that the zero‐sum and boundary constraints of multiple time‐varying parameters can be sufficiently utilised when transforming the parameterised stabilisation conditions into linear matrix inequalities.
A framework of system integration and integration value analysis: Concept and case studies
Authors: Jia Hongjie , Wang Huiyuan , Cao Yan , Mu Yunfei , Xu Xiandong , Yu Xiaodan
Published: May 2022

In modern society, system integration that enables multiple subsystems to function as one is emerging in various fields like industry, commerce, and infrastructure. Although it has been proved that integration value could be tapped to the maximum with controllable cost by optimising the integration schemes in certain fields, there is still a lack of a general method for modelling and analysing the process of system integration. To address this need, this paper proposes an analysis framework of system integration. The concepts of integration object, integration strategy, integration time, integration cost and integration value are introduced to describe the integration process. Further, three optimisation models of the local optimisation (OPT1), phase optimisation (OPT2) and integration optimisation (OPT3) are constructed. The proposed framework can also supervise and compare the performance of intermediate processes of different integration schemes. Two case studies in the commerce and energy fields are analysed to illustrate the function of the proposed framework.
Prediction and Analysis of Household Energy Consumption by Machine Learning Algorithms in Energy Management
Authors: Rambabu M. , Ramakrishna N.S.S. , Polamarasetty P Kumar
Published: May 2022

Now the world is becoming more sophisticated and networked, and a massive amount of data is being generated daily. For energy management in residential and commercial properties, it is essential to know how much energy each appliance uses. The forecast would be more clear and practical if the task is based purely on energy usage data. But in the real world, it’s not the case, energy consumption is strongly dependent on weather and surroundings also. In a home appliances network when measured/observed data is available then algorithms of supervised-based machine learning provide an immeasurable alternative to the annoyance associated with many engineering and data mining methodologies. The patterns of household energy consumption are changing based on temperature, humidity, hour of the day, etc. For predicting household energy consumption feature engineering is performed, and models are trained by using different machine learning algorithms such as Linear Regression, Lasso Regression, Random Forest, Extra Tree Regressor, XG Boost, etc.. To evaluate the models R square is used as the forecasting is based on time. R square tells how much percentage of variance in the dependent variable can be predicted. Finally, it is suggested that tree-based models are giving best results.
College Election System using Blockchain
Authors: Mani Aanchal , Patil Samarjeet , Sheth Soham , Kondaka Lakshmi Sudha
Published: May 2022

Blockchain is a distributed system that confirms security and reliability. It has started a new era of a solid and consensus system. Because of blockchain's emphasis on security, many other operations and processes are adopting the same reliable approach. Almost all processes and operations are now encouraged to be computed electronically in the digital Ethereum network that has been presented. In the current situation, we have seen what the conduction of elections has done to the worsening situation of the Covid-19 Pandemic. The proposed system uses an Ethereum network on a blockchain platform to implement a college voting system, making use of the Aadhar API. E-voting will help to support transparency and voters' trust to reduce corruption and unreliability in the voting processes. The use of this system will allow a voter to vote from home while also having the assurity that this process is completely secure and reliable due to the use of blockchain technology.
Resume Classification using various Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Pal Riya , Shaikh Shahrukh , Satpute Swaraj , Bhagwat Sumedha
Published: May 2022

With the onset of the epidemic, everything has gone online, and individuals have been compelled to work from home. There is a need to automate the hiring process in order to enhance efficiency and decrease manual labour that may be done electronically. If resume categorization were done online, it would significantly save paperwork and human error. The recruiting process has several steps, but the first is resume categorization and verification. Automating the first stage would greatly assist the interview process in terms of speedy applicant selection. Classification of resumes will be performed using Machine Learning Algorithms such as Nave Bayes, Random Forest, and SVM, which will aid in the extraction of skills and show diverse capabilities under appropriate job profile classes. While the abilities are being extracted, an appropriate job profile may be retrieved from the categorised and pre-processed data and shown on the interviewer’s screen. During video interviews, this will aid the interviewer in the selection of candidates.
Diabetic Retinopathy Detection From Fundus Images Using Multi-Tasking Model With EfficientNet B5
Authors: Bhawarkar Yash , Bhure Kaustubh , Chaudhary Vinayak , Alte Bhavana
Published: May 2022

Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a common eye disease that affects over 3 million people annually. People with diabetes are more prone to suffer from Diabetic Retinopathy. This condition can cause blurring of vision and blindness. Early detection and treatment are the most effective ways to manage Diabetic Retinopathy. Due to the huge number of diabetic patients and the need for more accurate and automatic diagnosis, the development of deep neural networks has been acknowledged. One of the issues with deep learning classification tasks, particularly in the medical field, is a lack of labelled training data. Transfer learning enables the deep learning model to be trained with a minimal Training Dataset. In Deep convolutional networks, transfer learning can be utilized to solve the problem of insufficient training data. Previous studies on deep neural networks have been promising. Through a color fundus photography study, we have developed a model to identify the different stages of Diabetic Retinopathy using Deep learning. Our proposed model has achieved 87% of accuracy with the help of EfficientNet model. The main aim of this work is to develop a robust system for detecting DR automatically.