bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bisphenol A Disrupt Endogenous Estrone, Estriol and Estradiol Levels in Female Albino Wistar Rats
Authors: E. Oguazu Chinenye , C. Ezeonu Francis , O. Enemali M. , I. Ubaoji Kingsley
Published: August 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a contaminant with increasing exposure and exerts both toxic and estrogenic effects on cells The general population is potentially exposed to many chemicals that can affect the endocrine system. These substances are called endocrine disruptors (EDs), and among them Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most widely used and well-studied. This study investigates the possibility of blood serum endogenous estrogens levels perturbations at prevailing low exposure rates of BPA in albino Wistar rats. Eleven experimental groups each containing five (10) female rats were administered graded doses of BPA/kg body weight (bw)/day. The first control group was given water. Animals blood were collected weekly for twelve weeks and serum sample specimens analyzed by routine diagnostic procedures for estrogens assay using Chemwell Chemical Analyzer. Significantly increased concentrations of estrone and estradiol were observed, alongside significant decreased estriol concentrations, at all concentrations of BPA exposure at different time suggesting that bisphenol A upsets endogenous esrogens and causes perturbation of estradiol concentrations. These findings point to the overall disruption of estrogen metabolism.
Use of Agro-Insecticide, Plant Extracts and Resistance Inducers to Manage Yellow Vein Mosaic of Okra
Authors: Yadav Pankaj , Malik Vinod Kumar , Kumar Rakesh , Yadav Lokesh , Kumar Satish , Chauhan Ravinder Singh , Singh Manjeet
Published: July 2022

Production of okra is under threat due to certain biotic and abiotic factors. Okra yellow vein mosaic virus (OYVMV) is a devastating disease of okra, caused by monopartite and bipartite begomovirus and transmitted by whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci Gen.). Yield loss due to this virus is quite high, up to 80-94 percent is reported under heavy infection. The efficacy of Malathion with botanicals and resistance inducers were tested against OYVMV in the field conditions for the effective management of the disease. The result revealed that among all the treatments malathion 50 EC (2 ml/litre) in combination with sarpagandha leaves extract (10%) had recorded the lowest terminal per cent disease index (PDI) (15.55%) during all the observation periods as compared to untreated check plot (71.68%). The fruit yield was also recorded highest (3833.20 kg/ha) in this treatment as compared to control (1811.15 kg/ha) and other treatments. For the evaluation of resistance inducers, the seeds were soaked in salicylic acid with concentrations of 50, 100 and 150 mg/litre water and Trichoderma viride @ 5 g/litre water at the time of sowing and later sprayed with the same doses at 15 days interval. Amongst different treatments, salicylic acid @ 150 mg/litre as seed priming and spray @ 150 mg/litre water recorded significantly less terminal PDI (28.89%) as well as the highest fruit yield as compared to other treatments and untreated check plot (73.33%). The treatment with bioagent Trichoderma viride @ 5 g/litre as seed priming and spray @ 5 g/litre water also effective in reducing the disease severity and increasing fruit yield significantly as compared to control.
Development of Eco-friendly Technology for the Management of Dry Land Saline Soil
Authors: Lalitha Gandikota Rupa , Sekaran N. Chandra , Selvi D. , Kalaiselvi T.
Published: August 2022

To develop an eco-friendly and economically viable biological technology to alleviate dry land salinity, an incubation experiment was carried out at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during 2021-22 in saline soils with varied EC values viz., 4, 5 and 6 dS m-1 collected from Adivalli village of Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu. The soils were treated with microbial cultures developed from both TNAU (Bacillus subtilus) and CSSRI (CSR-GROW-SURE bio-stimulant which consists of CSR-M-16 (Bacillus licheniformis), CSR-A-11 (Lysnibacillus fusiformis), CSR-A-16 (Lysinibacillus sphaericus)) at different rates namely 1, 2 and 3 L ha-1 under two varied moisture regimes this is 75% and 100% field capacity. The results of the study showed that application of irrespective of microbial cultures (CSSRI / TNAU) and moisture regimes (75% /100% field capacity) were effective in reducing the soil EC and SAR. The CSR-GROW-SURE at 3 L ha-1 had reduced the salinity to the tune of 7 to 9 % and SAR from 26 to 27 % and it was on par with TNAU culture at 3 L ha-1 which also reduced the EC from 6 to 9 % and SAR between 25 and 26 % after 90 days of incubation. The results of both the moisture regimes namely 75% and 100% FC were comparable but a little higher effect was pronounced at 100% FC.
Sales Anomaly Detection Using Automatic Time Series Decomposition
Authors: Ngongo Nevie Chrislie Kinzonzi , Darteh Oscar Famous
Published: July 2022

This study proposes an automated time series decomposition (ATSD) technique for sales anomaly detection using weekly ice cream sale data from Google Trends with the caption "(Mobile AL-Pensacola (Ft. Walton Beach) FL. In this study, an empirical approach based on automatic time series decomposition (ATSD) was used to detect anomalies in sales data. A historical quantitative weekly ice cream sales data between periods of 9 April 2017 to 3 April 2022 consisting of 261 data points was used. The process for discovering the anomalous sales point includes importing of the necessary libraries, data visualization, construction of the ATSD model, creating the time series components from original data (seasonal, trend, residual), calculating the estimated from the original, and finally, the extraction of the anomalous sales. Anomalies were first discovered during the data visualization stage, which revealed some abnormal sales in mid-2019, late-2019, and early 2020. However, after applying the ATSD, our model detected anomalies with the specific dates of these anomalies. Following the application of the ATSD, our results indicate that the proposed anomaly detection approach can reliably detect anomalies with the dates of these anomalies. Because this technique worked well with our data, we assume it will work with any time series data.
Ayurvedic Shodhan Treatment Approach for the Management of Ksheenshukra (Oligozoospermia)
Authors: Kumar Lokesh , Katara Pankaj Kumar , Chaturvedi Sonal
Published: August 2022

The main cause of a childless couple's lack of societal support is the depressing ignorance and maltreatment of the causes of childlessness and its treatment. Childless couples are socially and emotionally vulnerable in many parts of the world because of this isolation. The pressure to become pregnant may be directed at women in various societies, and she is frequently the one who suffers the most from its effects. One of the primary reasons for male infertility is low sperm count (oligozoospermia), which is associated with Ksheena Shukra (oligozoospermia). Before administering Vajikarana medications, Shodhana procedures must be carried out, especially because Virechana Karma has been recommended in cases with Shukra Dushti [1].
Dividend Distribution Policy and Corporate Response Behavior: Analytical Research on Companies in the Industrial Sector on the Iraq Stock Exchange
Authors: Anssari Majid Ahmed AL , Al Sabti Ala Alddin Abdulwahab
Published: August 2022

This study was designed to investigate the effect of dividend policy on the performance of companies operating in the industrial sector in Iraq. Steady performance can be controlled by using four variables: firm size, firm growth, financial leverage (debt-to-equity ratio), and corporate governance index. The data used in the current study were represented seven years period (2014-2020). The data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, correlation, OLS regression, Lagrangian multiplier, Haussmann test, constant effects models and random effects. Furthermore, the main results of each objective obtained were followed up through the analysis method adopted. The results of the present study revealed a negative correlation between the dividend policy and profitability. Just as the size of the company, and the leverage came with a negative moral effect.
The Place of Soul in Therapy, or the Place of Therapy in Soul
Authors: Palmer Helen , Hubbard Peter
Published: August 2022

As modern psychotherapy looks beyond its rationale and scientific antecedents, the spotlight is beginning to fall on the definition of soul and its relationship to psychotherapy. The questions that show up in this enquiry tends to focus on where soul might be acknowledged in psychotherapy, and then on how this particular aspect of therapy might be done. These a reasonable questions, yet put in this way, they underscore an assumption about this relationship. This assumption is predicted on the notion that soul is an aspect of therapy, that it is 'in' therapy.
Life and How to Survive It and The Nemesis File
Authors: Greener Peter
Published: August 2022

Families and How to Survive Them, Skynner and Cleese, Methuen, London, was released to worldwide acclaim in 1983 and instantly became a best seller. Life and How to Survive it is the second part of the project the authors began in 1980. They "wanted to make available to the general public, in a way that was easy to absorb, those aspects of psychological knowledge we had found most helpful ourselves, towards making life more understandable, meaningful and enjoyable".
Long-term impact of overnight shiftwork implementation on pediatric residents' mental wellness: A repeated cross-sectional survey
Authors: Nakao Hiro , Nomura Osamu , Kubota Mitsuru , Ishiguro Akira
Published: July 2022

Objectives

The Japanese government partially enacted the “Work Style Reform Bill” in 2019. The National Center for Child Health and Development (NCCHD) introduced an Overnight Call Shift (OCS) system for pediatrician training. We conducted a follow-up survey in 2019 to investigate the long-term effectiveness of the OCS system to improve the pediatric residents' mental wellness at NCCHD.

Methods

We conducted a questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey for pediatric residents in 2019 to compare the data with those of the previous survey in 2012. The questionnaire includes demographic data, working conditions data, and mental wellness assessment by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CES-D) and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI).

Results

The collection rate for the 2019 survey was 94.5% (37 participants/39 eligible). Compared to 2012, there were no significant changes in demographic data and working hours, a significant increase by about 30% in residents who took daytime off after night work, about 10% decrease in residents who scored 16 and above on the CES-D, and a significant decrease in the mean score for depersonalization (DP) in the MBI. Multiple regression analyses showed that daytime off after night work was the decreasing factor for CES-D and Emotional exhaustion (EE).

Conclusions

The overnight shiftwork system shortened the pediatric residents' duty hours somewhat, and imposed an impact on the pediatric residents' mental wellness.
Improving reproducibility and performance of radiomics in low‐dose CT using cycle GANs
Authors: Chen Junhua , Wee Leonard , Dekker Andre , Bermejo Inigo
Published: July 2022

Background

As a means to extract biomarkers from medical imaging, radiomics has attracted increased attention from researchers. However, reproducibility and performance of radiomics in low‐dose CT scans are still poor, mostly due to noise. Deep learning generative models can be used to denoise these images and in turn improve radiomics’ reproducibility and performance. However, most generative models are trained on paired data, which can be difficult or impossible to collect.

Purpose

In this article, we investigate the possibility of denoising low‐dose CTs using cycle generative adversarial networks (GANs) to improve radiomics reproducibility and performance based on unpaired datasets.

Methods and materials

Two cycle GANs were trained: (1) from paired data, by simulating low‐dose CTs (i.e., introducing noise) from high‐dose CTs and (2) from unpaired real low dose CTs. To accelerate convergence, during GAN training, a slice‐paired training strategy was introduced. The trained GANs were applied to three scenarios: (1) improving radiomics reproducibility in simulated low‐dose CT images and (2) same‐day repeat low dose CTs (RIDER dataset), and (3) improving radiomics performance in survival prediction. Cycle GAN results were compared with a conditional GAN (CGAN) and an encoder–decoder network (EDN) trained on simulated paired data.

Results

The cycle GAN trained on simulated data improved concordance correlation coefficients (CCC) of radiomic features from 0.87 (95%CI, [0.833,0.901]) to 0.93 (95%CI, [0.916,0.949]) on simulated noise CT and from 0.89 (95%CI, [0.881,0.914]) to 0.92 (95%CI, [0.908,0.937]) on the RIDER dataset, as well improving the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of survival prediction from 0.52 (95%CI, [0.511,0.538]) to 0.59 (95%CI, [0.578,0.602]). The cycle GAN trained on real data increased the CCCs of features in RIDER to 0.95 (95%CI, [0.933,0.961]) and the AUC of survival prediction to 0.58 (95%CI, [0.576,0.596]).

Conclusion

The results show that cycle GANs trained on both simulated and real data can improve radiomics’ reproducibility and performance in low‐dose CT and achieve similar results compared to CGANs and EDNs.
Unravelling the Size‐Dependent Mechanical Properties of Nanocrystalline Face‐Centered‐Cubic Metals: From the Dislocation Point of View
Authors: Chen Yan , Li Heng , Sun Guixun , Han Shuang , Lian Jianshe
Published: July 2022

The grain size dependence of strain rate sensitivity, apparent activation volume, and yield stress of nanocrystalline (NC) face‐centered‐cubic metals (FCC) are modeled based on the bow‐out model of single dislocation. It is found that the grain size limitation on the dislocation length gives rise to the grain size effects on the mechanical properties. The model gives predictions that when temperature is at or below room temperature and the strain rate is in the quasistatic range, dislocation‐mediated mechanisms play a dominant role in the plastic deformations of FCC NC metals even for the grain size of several nanometers, which is consistent with known experimental and simulation results. Based on the model, abnormal mechanical phenomena of nanostructured metals, such as the appearance of the inverse Hall–Petch relationship, the existence of the critical grain size, and its strain rate dependence, are well predicted and interpreted.
Strain‐Induced Structure Evolution of Multimetallic Nanoplates
Authors: Mahmood Azhar , He Dequan , Talib Shamraiz Hussain , He Ying , Song Zhongqian , Zhenbang Liu , Han Dongxue , Niu Li
Published: July 2022

The surface structure and lattice strain necessary  to optimize oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in a cost‐effective electrocatalyst still requires systematic exploration. Here, by means of oxidative etching of surface confinement stacking faults, a comparative study of the influence of defects on the growth and lattice strain of PtAgPb core‐shell nanoplates for ORR is conducted. Stacking faults are key to forming the core–shell structure and induce tensile and compressive strains to improve catalytic performance of nanoplates. In particular, the compressive strain arising from the optimal composition of nanoplates enhances the ORR activity. The findings show how compressive strain in core–shell nanoplates shift the electronic band structure of platinum (Pt) and weakens chemisorption of oxygenated species. As a result, the obtained PtAgPb‐IV/C nanoplates display superior specific and mass activities (5.06 mA cm−2 and 2.24 A mgPt−1) for ORR that are ≈18 and ≈13 times higher than that of commercial Pt/C, placing it among the best reported Pt based ORR electrocatalysts. Furthermore, the PtAgPb‐IV/C catalyst exhibits substantially improved durability relative to commercial Pt/C catalysts. This work represents a major step toward the deterministic synthesis of Pt‐based multimetallic nanocrystals with specific structure and surface strain for efficient ORR performance.
Enriched‐Bromine Surface State for Stable Sky‐Blue Spectrum Perovskite QLEDs With an EQE of 14.6%
Authors: Zhu Hanwen , Tong Guoqing , Li Junchun , Xu Enze , Tao Xuyong , Sheng Yuanyuan , Tang Jianxin , Jiang Yang
Published: July 2022

Halogen vacancies are of great concern in blue‐emitting perovskite quantum‐dot light‐emitting diodes because they affect their efficiency and spectral shift. Here, an enriched‐bromine surface state is realized using a facile strategy that employs a PbBr2 stock solution for anion exchange based on Cd‐doped perovskite quantum dots. It is found that the doped Cd ions are expected to reduce the formation energy of halogen vacancies filled by the external bromine ions, and the excess free bromine ions in solution are enriched in the surface by anchoring with halogen vacancies as sites, accompanied with the shedding of surface long‐chain ligands during the anion exchange process, resulting in a Br‐rich and “neat” surface. Moreover, the surface state exhibits good passivation of the surface defects of the controlled perovskite QDs and simultaneously increases the exciton binding energy, leading to excellent optical properties and stability. Finally, the sky‐blue emitting perovskite quantum‐dot light‐emitting diodes (QLEDs) (490 nm) are conducted with a record external quantum efficiency of 14.6% and current efficiency of 19.9 cd A−1. Meanwhile, the electroluminescence spectra exhibit great stability with negligible shifts under a constant operating voltage from 3 to 7 V. This strategy paves the way for improving the efficiency and stability of perovskite QLEDs.
Chemical Vapor Deposition of High‐Optical‐Quality Large‐Area Monolayer Janus Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Gan Ziyang , Paradisanos Ioannis , Estrada‐Real Ana , Picker Julian , Najafidehaghani Emad , Davies Francis , Neumann Christof , Robert Cedric , Wiecha Peter , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Marie Xavier , Biskupek Johannes , Mundszinger Manuel , Leiter Robert , Kaiser Ute , Krasheninnikov Arkady V. , Urbaszek Bernhard , George Antony , Turchanin Andrey
Published: July 2022

One‐pot chemical vapor deposition (CVD) growth of large‐area Janus SeMoS monolayers is reported, with the asymmetric top (Se) and bottom (S) chalcogen atomic planes with respect to the central transition metal (Mo) atoms. The formation of these 2D semiconductor monolayers takes place upon the thermodynamic‐equilibrium‐driven exchange of the bottom Se atoms of the initially grown MoSe2 single crystals on gold foils with S atoms. The growth process is characterized by complementary experimental techniques including Raman and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and the growth mechanisms are rationalized by first principle calculations. The remarkably high optical quality of the synthesized Janus monolayers is demonstrated by optical and magneto‐optical measurements which reveal the strong exciton–phonon coupling and enable an exciton g‐factor of −3.3.
Eddy covariance quantification of corn water use and yield responses to irrigations on farm‐scale fields
Authors: Anapalli Saseendran S. , Pinnamaneni Srinivasa R. , Reddy Krishna N. , Singh Gurbir
Published: July 2022

Furrow irrigations dominate row‐crop irrigation scenarios in many regions worldwide. In this study, corn (Zea mays L.) yield and evapotranspiration (ET) in an all‐furrow irrigation (FI) were compared against irrigations applied through alternate furrows irrigation (SFI, skip‐furrow irrigation) and rainfed (RF) systems on farm‐scale fields in 2017 and 2019 {corn phases of a soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]–corn rotation} in clay soil in the Lower Mississippi Delta region, United States. Evapotranspiration was monitored using the eddy covariance (EC) method. The average corn yield in the SFI was significantly (12.1 Mg ha−1) higher (4.9%) than in the FI (11.7 Mg ha−1). Corn yield in RF (10.2 Mg ha−1) was significantly lower (10.7%) than in the FI. However, the leaf area index (LAI) in SFI was lower than in FI. Seasonal average ET was 556, 573, and 540 mm in FI, SFI, and RF, respectively. The average water use efficiencies (WUEs) were 0.021, 0.021, and 0.019 Mg ha−1 mm−1, respectively (10.5 % lower in RF than FI and SFI). This investigation revealed that adapting the SFI irrigation regime in the corn cropping system could produce grain yields equal to or higher than corn grown under the conventional FI, saving ∼40% of irrigation water. The farm‐scale studies conducted in this investigation gave better confidence to recommend SFI to replace conventional FI systems in the region for water conservation in corn cropping systems. Further investigations may be needed to evaluate the viability of SFI in other contrasting soils and climates and recommend the system for adoption by the farming community.
Optimizing quinoa growth cycle duration in northeast England by varying the sowing date
Authors: Domingos Israel , Bilsborrow Paul
Published: July 2022

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is attracting interest as a key contributor to global food and nutritional security. This study evaluated the effects of and interactions between sowing date (mid‐April vs. early May) and variety (‘Atlas’ and ‘Jessie’) on the performance of quinoa in northeast England over three seasons (2016–2018). Grain yield was about 1 Mg ha−1 on average across all treatments, associated with poor crop establishment (56.6%) and a prolonged crop growth cycle (165 d). The highest grain yield of 1.70 Mg ha−1 was achieved from the late‐maturing variety Atlas in 2017, which was also supported by the highest harvest index and yield components. Grain yield, protein content, and Zn concentration were all significantly higher for the late sowing, whereas total antioxidant concentration was significantly higher in response to the early sowing date. Grain Zn (43.8 mg kg−1), Fe (123.1 mg kg−1), and protein (13.4%) concentrations were higher on average than those reported for major cereals with particularly high protein (14.8%) and Zn (63.8 mg kg−1) concentrations achieved in 2017. Despite the relatively low yield, varietal differences in crop yield and development can be targeted for future crop improvements to suit the cool temperate climate of northeast England.
Domestic clustered networks and internationalization of agrifood SMEs
Authors: Serrano Raul , Dejo‐Oricain Natalia , Ferrer Juan , Pinilla Vicente , Abella‐Garcés Silvia , Maza Maria Teresa
Published: July 2022

This paper examines how participating in domestic clustered networks in the agri‐food industry affects the export status and export intensity of small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). The Uppsala internationalization process model has been revisited in light of the knowledge that these networks can contribute to promoting the presence of SMEs abroad. The study uses a sample of companies in the Spanish wine industry and characterizes 76 domestic clustered business networks (Protected Designations of Origin). The value and originality of the paper reside in its contribution in terms of measuring the degree of internationalization of domestic clustered networks to which SMEs belong. It also assesses the effect of these networks on the internationalization process of the agri‐food industry, considering that domestic clustered networks with a strong international commitment generate greater internationalization opportunities. [EconLit Citations: F14, M21, Q13, Q17].
The experience of one pediatric geneticist with telemedicine‐based clinical diagnosis
Authors: Campbell Ian M. , Crowley T. Blaine , Keena Beth , Donoghue Sarah , McManus Morgan L. , Zackai Elaine H.
Published: July 2022

Telemedicine has long been considered as an attractive alternative methodology in clinical genetics to improve patient access and convenience. Given the importance of the dysmorphology physical examination and anthropometric measurement in clinical genetics, many have wondered if lost information would hamper diagnosis. We previously addressed this question by analyzing thousands of diagnostic encounters in a single practice involving multiple practitioners and found no evidence for a difference in new molecular diagnosis rates. However, our previous study design resulted in variability in providers between in‐person and telemedicine evaluation groups. To address this in our present study, we expanded our analysis to 1104 new patient evaluations seen by one highly experienced clinical geneticist across two 10‐month periods before and after the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Comparing patients seen in‐person to those seen by telemedicine, we found significant differences in race and ethnicity, preferred language, and home zip code median income. The clinical geneticist intended to send more genetic testing for those patients seen by telemedicine, but due to issues with test authorization and sample collection, there was no difference in ultimate completion rate between groups. We found no significant difference in new molecular diagnosis rate. Overall, we find telemedicine to be an acceptable alternative to in‐person evaluation for routine pediatric clinical genetics care.
Catalytic Asymmetric α‐Alkylsulfenylation with a Disulfide Reagent
Authors: Shi Mingying , Zhang Qi , Gao Jiali , Mi Xueling , Luo Sanzhong
Published: July 2022

The use of alkylthio electrophiles in synthesis has remained elusive because of the lack of a suitable reagent that is practical and of excellent enantioselectivity and appropriate reactivity. In this work we introduce a novel alkylthio reagent based on the 2‐mercapto‐5‐methyl‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole (MMTD) fragment for direct alkylsulfenylation of ketones and aldehydes. It can be readily prepared by the oxidative coupling between thiadiazole and other alkylthio reagents and be combined with chiral primary aminocatalysis. This protocol provides facile access to diverse α‐alkylthio quaternary carbon centers with good stereoselectivities.
Dicyanoargentate(I)‐based complexes induced in vivo tumor inhibition by activating apoptosis‐related pathways
Authors: Aydın Ali , Korkmaz Nesrin , Kısa Dursun , Türkmenoğlu Burçin , Karadağ Ahmet
Published: July 2022

Colorectal adenocarcinoma, which often occurs as a result of a typical chromosomal instability and mismatch repair deficiencies resulting in resistance to apoptosis, is a significant burden on society. Previously, we demonstrated strong apoptosis triggers Ag(I) complexes in vitro, including [Ni (hydeten)2Ag(CN)2] [Ag (CN2].H2O (C1), [Ni (bishydeten)2] [Ag (CN)2]2.H2O (C2), and [Ni(N‐bishydeten)Ag3(CN)5] (C3), which specifically induce the apoptotic mechanism of cancer cells and selectively is non‐cytotoxic within normal cells. Herein, we introduce in vivo the ability of Ag(I) complexes to activate apoptosis and interact with cell cycle and cell fate‐related proteins. To assess antitumor efficacy, we evaluated tumor volume, survival rate, and protein status related to cell cycle, apoptosis, and oxidative stress (by immunohistochemistry, genetic expression, and ELISA assays). In addition, in this study, using molecular docking study, the interactions of metal complexes on many proteins were examined, and the findings related to their theoretical anticancer activities were obtained and compared. The in vivo evaluation of Ag(I) complexes (10 mg/kg) against HT29 xenograft tumor model in the CD1 nude and BALB/c mice revealed a remarkable decrease in the tumor volume and increase survival rate. The weight‐loss situation and histopathological indicators of Ag(I) complexes‐treated mice approved that the Ag(I) complexes have a considerable healing effect on solid tumors with negligible side‐effect on the tissue. This promising information strongly expresses that Ag(I) complexes may fulfill the task of an antitumor agent and be a potential candidate for a chemotherapeutic approach against colorectal adenocarcinoma.
Novel NO2 semicarbazone ligand and its metal complexes as VEGFR‐2 inhibitors: Synthesis, spectral characterization, density functional theory calculations, molecular docking, and antimicrobial and antitumor evaluation
Authors: Salah Nesma , Emara Adel A. A. , Adly Omima M. I. , Taha Ali , Nabeel Asmaa I. , Aziz Maged A. , Ibrahim Magdy A.
Published: July 2022

A novel semicarbazone NO2 ligand, H2L, was synthesized. The ligand reacted with several metal ions such as Cu(II), Ni(II), Co(II), Fe(III), Cr(III), and Mn(II) in a molar ratio 1:1 (M:L). The H2L ligand and its metal complexes were characterized by electronic, infrared, mass, nuclear magnetic resonance, electron spin resonance spectra, as well as elemental analysis, thermal analysis, molar conductance, and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The Coats–Redfern equations were used to calculate the kinetic parameters (Ea, A, ΔH, ΔS, and ΔG) of the thermal decomposition stages. The H2L ligand acts as dianionic NO2 tridentate in all complexes and coordinates through enolate oxygen, azomethine nitrogen, and deprotonated OH group. The geometrical arrangements in all metal complexes were octahedral geometries. Based on density functional theory (DFT) level implemented in the Gaussian 09 program at B3LYP/6‐311G(d,p) level, the molecular structural parameters of the ligand and its metal complexes were calculated, and the theoretical data were connected with the experimental results. The antimicrobial activity of the current compounds was examined against Gram‐positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis), Gram‐negative bacteria (Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli), yeast (Candida albicans), and fungus (Aspergillus fumigatus). The antitumor activity of the ligand and its metal complexes was investigated against HepG2 cell line, which revealed promising IC50 values comparable with that of Cis‐platin. All synthesized compounds were also subjected to molecular docking studies to investigate their binding pattern and affinity for the VEGFR‐2 active site and correlated with antitumor data.
Visible light‐induced catalytic hydrosilylation of ketones mediated by manganese NHC complexes
Authors: Mourão Henrique , Gomes Clara S. B. , Realista Sara , Royo Beatriz
Published: July 2022

Manganese catalysis has attracted significant attention in the last few years. In comparison with the extensively studied Mn complexes bearing phosphine‐based pincer ligands, catalysis with Mn containing N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHC) is poorly developed. In this work, new manganese(I) complexes bearing an NHC ligand with picolyl wingtip substituents (an N,C,N ligand) have been synthesized and fully characterized. The structure of fac‐[Mn(CO)3(κ2N,C,N)Br] and fac‐[Mn(CO)3(κ3N,C,N)](OTf) complexes with a bidentate and tridentate coordination of the N,C,N ligand, respectively, has been elucidated by single crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. These Mn complexes were applied as catalysts for the visible light‐induced hydrosilylation of ketones. The mild protocol operated efficiently at room temperature under visible light irradiation (blue LED), enabling the conversion of a wide variety of aromatic ketones to their respective alcohols in high yields. Evidence for radical intermediates and the participation of Mn‐H species has been demonstrated by a series of trapping experiments.
Polyanilines from spent battery powder and activated carbon: Electrodes for asymmetric supercapacitor cell
Authors: Ega Sai Prasad , Karri Sangam Naidu , Srinivasan Palaniappan
Published: July 2022

This work aims to use the electro‐active materials for energy storage application from the waste raw material source, readily and indigenously available materials. Nowadays, the use of waste sources to prepare electro‐active materials for energy storage applications is trending due to their low‐cost, high availability, reduced environmental problems, and so forth. In this direction, Polyaniline (PANI) is prepared using a MnO2 oxidant collected from waste Zn‐C cells. PANI displayed a compact and interconnected granular morphology with a surface area (39 m2 g−1), pore volume (0.19 cm3 g−1), and pore diameter (2.2 nm). Activated carbon (AC) has a surface area (860 m2 g−1), pore volume (199 cm3 g−1), and pore diameter (1.2 nm) is purchased locally. FT‐IR, XRD, and EDAX spectra support the formation of polyaniline salt with a small amount of Mn and Zn. The asymmetric cell is constructed using a PANI as a positive electrode and carbon as negative electrode material. The cell (PANI//AC) shows a high specific capacitance of 157 F g−1 at a current density of 5 mA cm−2. The cell offers a cycle life stability of 5000 cycles with a coulombic efficiency of 93% at a current density of 10 mA cm−2.
Bridging information and communication technology and older adults by social network: An action research in Sichuan, China
Authors: Zhang Yuhao , Zheng Guangchun , Yan Hui
Published: July 2022

The extant literature demonstrates that the age‐related digital divide prevents older adults from enhancing their quality of life. To bridge this gap and promote active aging, this study explores the interplay between social networks and older adults' use of information and communication technology (ICT). Using an action‐oriented field research approach, we offered technical help (29 help sessions) to older adult participants recruited from western China. Then, we conducted content analysis to examine the obtained video, audio, and text data. Our results show that, first, different types of social networks significantly influence older adults' ICT use in terms of digital skills, engagement, and attitudes; however, these effects vary from person to person. In particular, our results highlight the crucial role of a stable and long‐term supportive social network in learning and mastering ICT for older residents. Second, technical help facilitates the building and reinforcing of such a social network for the participants. Our study has strong implications in that policymakers can foster the digital inclusion of older people through supportive social networks.
Semi‐rational protein engineering of a novel ene‐reductase from Galdieria sulphuraria for asymmetric reduction of (R)‐carvone and ketoisophorone
Authors: Wu Shijin , Wang Bijiao , Yan Hongde
Published: July 2022

Asymmetric reduction of (R)‐carvone and ketoisophorone by an engineered ene‐reductase from Galdieria sulphuraria (GsOYE) combined with glucose dehydrogenase for NADPH regeneration were studied. A semi‐rational protein engineering was used to enhance the activity and selectivity of GsOYE. Upon the sequence alignment and molecular docking results, two amino acid residues at positions 66 and 270 were selected as saturation mutation sites. Finally, a single substitution variant of GsOYE‐N270A with complete conversion (100%) and diastereoselectivity (dep>99%) for reduction of (R)‐carvone and a double substitution variant GsOYE‐Y66P/N270H with improved stereoselectivity for reduction of ketoisophorone were obtained.
Prevalence of individual brain and eye defects potentially related to Zika virus in pregnancy in 22 U.S. states and territories, January 2016 to June 2017
Authors: Delaney Augustina , Olson Samantha M. , Roth Nicole M. , Cragan Janet D. , Godfred‐Cato Shana , Smoots Ashley N. , Fornoff Jane , Nestoridi Eirini , Eckert Valorie , Forkner Allison , Stolz Amanda , Crawford Katherine , Cho Sook Ja , Elmore Amanda , Langlois Peter , Nance Amy , Denson Lindsay , Forestieri Nina , Leedom Vinita O. , Tran Tri , Valencia‐Prado Miguel , Romitti Paul , Barton Jerusha E. , St. John Kristen , Mann Sylvia , Orantes Lucia , DeWilde Leah , Tong Van T. , Gilboa Suzanne M. , Moore Cynthia A. , Honein Margaret A.
Published: July 2022

During the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Zika Virus Response, birth defects surveillance programs adapted to monitor birth defects potentially related to Zika virus (ZIKV) infection during pregnancy. Pregnancy outcomes occurring during January 2016 to June 2017 in 22 U.S. states and territories were used to estimate the prevalence of those brain and eye defects potentially related to ZIKV. Jurisdictions were divided into three groups: areas with widespread ZIKV transmission, areas with limited local ZIKV transmission, and areas without local ZIKV transmission. Prevalence estimates for selected brain and eye defects and microcephaly per 10,000 live births were estimated. Prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using Poisson regression for areas with widespread and limited ZIKV transmission compared with areas without local ZIKV transmission. Defects with significantly higher prevalence in areas of widespread transmission were pooled, and PRs were calculated by quarter, comparing subsequent quarters to the first quarter (January–March 2016). Nine defects had significantly higher prevalence in areas of widespread transmission. The highest PRs were seen in intracranial calcifications (PR = 12.6, 95% CI [7.4, 21.3]), chorioretinal abnormalities (12.5 [7.1, 22.3]), brainstem abnormalities (9.3 [4.7, 18.4]), and cerebral/cortical atrophy (6.7 [4.2, 10.8]). The PR of the nine pooled defects was significantly higher in three quarters in areas with widespread transmission. The largest difference in prevalence was observed for defects consistently reported in infants with congenital ZIKV infection. Birth defects surveillance programs could consider monitoring a subset of birth defects potentially related to ZIKV in pregnancy.
Vom Molekül bis zum globalen Kreislauf
Authors: Rübberdt Kathrin
Published: July 2022

Safttüten, Wärmedämm‐Verbundsysteme, Batteriezellen gehören zu den zahllosen Produkten, die aus wertvollen Rohstoffen hergestellt werden und für die heute nur begrenzte oder gar keine stofflichen Recycling‐Verfahren existieren. Und sie zeigen exemplarisch die Vielfalt an Fragestellungen zur Umsetzung einer Circular Economy – einer echten Kreislaufwirtschaft.
Komplexes Abwasser behandeln
Authors: Quaiser Jutta
Published: July 2022

Bereits bei der Produktion von Pharmazeutika und Medikamenten sind die dabei anfallenden Abwässer mit Resten von Arzneimittelwirkstoffen belastet. Envirochemie bietet neben einer sorgfältigen Analytik eine Reihe von Verfahren an, um bedenkliche Inhaltsstoffe zuverlässig aus dem industriellen Abwasser zu entfernen.
Photocatalytic Aerobic Oxysulfonylation of Alkynes to Access β‐Keto Sulfones Catalyzed by OVs‐N‐Nb2O5
Authors: Song Tao , Zhang Yinpan , Wang Chun , Li Yafei , Yang Yong
Published: July 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Herein, we report a novel heterogeneous photocatalyst for radical‐mediated oxidative oxysulfonylation of alkynes to β‐keto sulfones under environmentally benign conditions. The oxygen vacancy‐rich semiconductor Nb2O5 (labeled as OVs‐N‐Nb2O5) could efficiently catalyze a wide range of alkynes, especially for those bearing electron‐deficient substituents or internal alkynes, to their corresponding β‐keto sulfones in good to high yields with good tolerance of diverse functional groups under visible‐light illumination. The late‐stage modification of steroidal compounds and synthesis of bioactive molecules were also achieved via this procedure, highlighting its potential for practical applications. Meanwhile, the photocatalyst OVs‐N‐Nb2O5 showed outstanding catalytic stability for successive recycles without appreciable loss in activity and selectivity. The critical role of oxygen vacancies on improving reaction activity and selectivity was clearly disclosed via control experiments and theoretical calculation.
Multi‐objective task scheduling in cloud computing
Authors: Malti Arslan Nedhir , Hakem Mourad , Benmammar Badr
Published: July 2022

Cloud computing services are used to fulfill user requests, often expressed in the form of tasks and their execution in such environments requires efficient scheduling strategies that take into account both algorithmic and architectural characteristics. Unfortunately, this problem is known to be NP‐hard in its general form. Despite the fact that several studies have been published in the literature, there are still interesting and relevant questions to be addressed. Indeed, most of the previous studies focus on a single objective and in the case where they deal with a set of objectives, they use a simple compromise function and do not consider how each of the parameters might influence the others. To this end, we propose an efficient task scheduling algorithm which is based on the pollination behavior of flowers and makes use of both Pareto optimality principle and TOPSIS technique to improve the quality of the obtained solutions. Both single and multiobjective optimization variants are investigated. In the latter case, three optimization criteria are considered, namely, minimizing the time makespan or schedule length, the execution cost, and maximizing the overall reliability of the task mapping. Different test‐bed scenarios and QoS metrics were considered and the obtained results corroborate the merits of the proposed algorithm.
Effectiveness of an online self‐help program, expert‐patient support, and their combination for eating disorders: Results from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rohrbach Pieter J. , Dingemans Alexandra E. , Spinhoven Philip , Van Ginkel Joost R. , Fokkema Marjolein , Wilderjans Tom F. , Bauer Stephanie , Van Furth Eric F.
Published: July 2022

Objective

Many individuals with an eating disorder do not receive appropriate care. Low‐threshold interventions could help bridge this treatment gap. The study aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of Featback, a fully automated online self‐help intervention, online expert‐patient support and their combination.

Method

A randomized controlled trial with a 12‐month follow‐up period was conducted. Participants aged 16 or older with at least mild eating disorder symptoms were randomized to four conditions: (1) Featback, a fully automated online self‐help intervention, (2) chat or email support from a recovered expert patient, (3) Featback with expert‐patient support and (4) a waiting list control condition. The intervention period was 8 weeks and there was a total of six online assessments. The main outcome constituted reduction of eating disorder symptoms over time.

Results

Three hundred fifty five participants, of whom 43% had never received eating disorder treatment, were randomized. The three active interventions were superior to a waitlist in reducing eating disorder symptoms (d = −0.38), with no significant difference in effectiveness between the three interventions. Participants in conditions with expert‐patient support were more satisfied with the intervention.

Discussion

Internet‐based self‐help, expert‐patient support and their combination were effective in reducing eating disorder symptoms compared to a waiting list control condition. Guidance improved satisfaction with the internet intervention but not its effectiveness. Low‐threshold interventions such as Featback and expert‐patient support can reduce eating disorder symptoms and reach the large group of underserved individuals, complementing existing forms of eating disorder treatment.

Public significance statement

Individuals with eating‐related problems who received (1) a fully automated internet‐based intervention, (2) chat and e‐mail support by a recovered individual or (3) their combination, experienced stronger reductions in eating disorder symptoms than those who received (4) usual care. Such brief and easy‐access interventions play an important role in reaching individuals who are currently not reached by other forms of treatment.
The impact of COVID‐19 on adolescents with eating disorders: Increased need for medical stabilization and decreased access to care
Authors: Feldman Marissa A. , King Callie K. , Vitale Sarah , Denhardt Brenna , Stroup Susan , Reese Jasmine , Stromberg Sarah
Published: July 2022

Objective

We aimed to identify trends of patients with eating disorders (EDs) requiring hospitalization before and during the pandemic at a children's hospital in the southeastern United States.

Method

A retrospective chart review was completed for 71 adolescents and young adults (ages 10–21 years; M = 14.61, SD = 2.121).

Results

Results indicated a 188% increase in ED hospital admissions since the pandemic, with patients presenting with increased rates of comorbid mental health diagnoses (p = .009). During COVID‐19, the development of temporary outpatient multidisciplinary discharge plans (i.e., “bridge plans”) were utilized more often due to difficulties accessing the appropriate level of care (p = .039).

Discussion

Results suggest a significant increase in youth requiring medical stabilization for EDs since the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic (2.9 times more than prepandemic), as well as a need for greater advocacy to increase specialized mental health services along the full continuum of care.

Public Significance Statement

This study brings awareness to the significant increase in patients needing medical stabilization secondary to restrictive EDs and increased rates of comorbid mental health diagnoses in this patient population since the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Patients during COVID‐19 were less likely to directly transition to treatment likely secondary to the strain COVID‐19 placed on mental health systems/treatment centers. Increased advocacy for specialized care for eating disorder patients.
How can a cooperative‐based organization of indigenous fisheries foster the resilience to global changes? Lessons learned by coastal communities in eastern Québec
Authors: Alberio Marco , Soubirou Marina
Published: July 2022

Halieutic resources and small‐scale fisheries are globally under stress due to global changes. This phenomenon has very strong impacts on the socioeconomic situation of vast coastal areas worldwide and of the communities living there, whose economies rely on the ocean. In the current context of a decrease of several halieutic stocks, there is a need of understanding what could be the avenues for fisheries‐dependent communities to adapt to global changes whilst preserving both local biodiversity and their ability to develop themselves. In this paper, we explore how a cooperative fisheries organizational model could allow coastal communities to foster their development without increasing the pressure on the resource they harvest. Through the analysis of the example of northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis) indigenous fisheries in eastern Québec, we expose how a cooperative‐based organization of fisheries that is oriented towards community development can foster resilience against the current decline of the resource in a socially vulnerable context at a micro and macro level. Furthermore, we show how collaboration between diverse types of fisheries organizations can allow socially innovative practices to scale up.
CD169+ subcapsular sinus macrophage‐derived microvesicles are associated with light zone follicular dendritic cells
Authors: Chen Xin , Zheng Yuhan , Liu Siming , Yu Wenjing , Liu Zhiduo
Published: July 2022

Follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) are a specialized type of stromal cells that exclusively reside in B‐cell follicles. When inflammation occurs, the FDC network is reorganized to support germinal center (GC) polarization into the light zone (LZ) and dark zone (DZ). Despite the indispensable role of FDCs in supporting humoral responses, the FDC regulatory requirements remain incompletely defined. In this study, we unexpectedly observed an accumulation of CD169+ subcapsular sinus macrophage (SSM)‐derived microvesicles (MVs) in the B‐cell zone, which were tightly associated with the FDC network. Interestingly, a selective deposition of CD169+ MVs was detected in both GC LZ FDCs in secondary follicles and on predetermined LZ FDCs in primary follicles. The ablation of CD169+ MVs, resulting from SSM depletion, resulted in significantly decreased expression of LZ‐related genes in FDCs. In addition, we found that CD169+ MVs could colocalize with fluorescently tagged antigen‐containing immune complexes (ICs), supporting a possible role of CD169+ MVs in transporting antigens to the FDC network. Thus, our data reveal intimate crosstalk between FDCs and SSMs located outside B‐cell follicles via SSM‐released MVs, providing a novel perspective on the mechanisms underlying the regulation of FDC maturation and polarization.