bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perancangan Iklan Layanan Masyarakat ”Hargai Hak Pejalan Kaki” di Kota Medan
Authors: John John , Bintarto Joko
Published: October 2021

Berjalan merupakan kegiatan yang dilakukan setiap saat oleh manusia, namun berjalan kaki di kota Medan mungkin saat ini menjadi kegiatan yang kurang aman dan nyaman. Hal ini dikarenakan hak-hak pejalan kaki di Kota Medan diambil oleh para pengendara kendaraan bermotor seperti, trotoar yang menjadi parkir liar oleh oknum-oknum tertentu, trotoar yang dipakai sebagai jalur sepeda motor, trotoar sebagai tempat berjualan pedagang kaki lima, dan zebra cross jadi tempat pemberhentian lampu merah yang seharusnya para pengendara berhenti di belakang garis zebra cross. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode pengumpulan data kualitatif dan kuantitatif dalam mengumpulkan data visual dan data-data yang diperlukan. Penelitian ini juga menggunakan metode analisis data 5W dan 1 H untuk merancang kampanye sosial ini. Hasil dari perancangan ILM ini berupa poster, plang jalan, beberapa merchendise (pin, gantungan kunci, kaos, goodie bag, stiker). Tujuan dari perancangan ILM ini adalah untuk menyadarkan para pengendara kendaraan bermotor agar lebih menghargai hak-hak pejalan kaki di Kota Medan.
Learning from Nature: Constructing a Smart Bionic Structure for High‐Performance Glucose Sensing in Human Serums
Authors: Tian Wenyan , Wan Caichao , Yong Ken‐Tye , Liu Sulai , Wei Song , Zhang Chonghao , Liu Xinyi , Su Jiahui , Cheng Wenjie , Wu Yiqiang
Published: October 2021

Traditional noble metal‐based catalysts for glucose sensing usually suffer from easy deactivation by halides and weak sensing properties. To unravel these limits, herein, a novel nature‐inspired design concept (mimicking a “rock–soil–grass” geotexture system) is purposed to build a free‐standing hierarchical micro‐nano architecture. Thanks to the design (rigid and conductive Ni foam) (“rock”, underlayer, rough and highly disordered graphene nanosheets (GNSs) (“soil”, middle‐layer), and strong catalytic activity of multiscale grass‐like Co3O4 (“grass”, top‐layer), the bionic structure achieves ultra‐high sensitivity, a low limit of detection (120 × 10−9 m), an extremely short response time, broad linear ranges (two stages: 1–10 000 and 10 000–30 040 µm), good anti‐Cl−‐poisoning and anti‐interference properties, and long‐term stability. Besides the structural design, the “gotong‐royong” effects (the strong interface coupling and charge transfer between GNSs and Co3O4 and energetically favorable glucose adsorption on Co3O4) also contribute to the high sensing properties, as verified by kinetic studies and density functional theory simulation. To determine human blood glucose levels, the self‐made glucometer with the self‐developed software demonstrates an ultra‐high recovery rate (99.0–100.9%), validating the potential for high‐performance blood‐glucose sensing.
Lithiothermic‐Synchronous Construction of Mo‐Li2S‐Graphene Nanocomposites for High‐Energy Li2S//SiC Battery
Authors: Zhang Junfan , Wang Jing , Qian Mengmeng , Zhao Bo , Wang Ran , Hao Xuechun , Huang Xinwei , Shao Ruiwen , Xing Zhenyu , Xie Jing , Xu Bing , Su Yuefeng , Wu Feng , Tan Guoqiang
Published: October 2021

Reducing the activation barrier and stabilizing the sulfur species of Li2S cathodes can ultimately enhance cell efficiency and the cycle life of S‐based Li‐ion batteries (LIBs). Here, a unique synchronous synthesis method is established that can simultaneously construct Li2S encapsulated in conductive protective layers, and accordingly propose a coordination effect of catalysis and domain restriction for Li2S cathodes. Typically, based on the lithiothermic reaction of 8Li + MoS2 + CS2 = 4Li2S + Mo + C, the obtained composite features abundant Mo nanocrystals embedded in crystalline Li2S matrices and then wrapped by few‐layer graphene. Notably, all three components derived from lithiothermic reaction are linked by the chemical bonding of MoS and CS, forming a compact Mo‐Li2S‐graphene triple heterostructure. Systematic studies reveal an unprecedented relevancy between charge overpotential and catalytic activation of Mo‐Li2S‐graphene, whereas a low activation potential of 2.43 V is achieved. Further studies disclose the relationship between cycle stability and confinement effect of core‐shell structure, whereas the improved confinement efficiency for polysulfides enables an excellent cycle life for the Li‐S battery. Moreover, the Mo‐Li2S‐graphene cathode demonstrates promising application for LIB, where the Mo‐Li2S‐graphene//SiC battery shows a high capacity of 764 mAh g−1 and outstanding cycle stability.
Training the Polarization in Integrated La0.15Bi0.85FeO3‐Based Devices
Authors: Müller Marvin , Huang Yen‐Lin , Vélez Saül , Ramesh Ramamoorthy , Fiebig Manfred , Trassin Morgan
Published: October 2021

The functionalities of BiFeO3‐based magnetoelectric multiferroic heterostructures rely on the controlled manipulation of their ferroelectric domains and of the corresponding net in‐plane polarization, as this aspect guides the voltage‐controlled magnetic switching. Chemical substitution has emerged as a key to push the energy dissipation of the BiFeO3 into the attojoule range but appears to result in a disordered domain configuration. Using non‐invasive optical second‐harmonic generation on heavily La‐substituted BiFeO3 films, it is shown that a weak net in‐plane polarization remains imprinted in the pristine films despite the apparent domain disorder. It is found that this ingrained net in‐plane polarization can be trained with out‐of‐plane electric fields compatible with applications. Operando studies on capacitor heterostructures treated in this way show the full restoration of the domain configuration of pristine BiFeO3 along with a giant net in‐plane polarization enhancement. Thus, the experiments reveal a surprising robustness of the net in‐plane polarization of BiFeO3 against chemical modification, an important criterion in ongoing attempts to integrate magnetoelectric materials into energy‐efficient devices.
Phototriggered Aggregation‐Induced Emission and Direct Generation of 4D Soft Patterns
Authors: Xie Huilin , Li Zhao , Gong Junyi , Hu Lianrui , Alam Parvej , Ji Xiaofan , Hu Yubing , Chau Joe H. C. , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: October 2021

Microscopic control of macroscopic phenomena is one of the core subjects in materials science. Particularly, the spatio‐temporal control of material behaviors through a non‐contact way is of fundamental importance but is difficult to accomplish. Herein, a strategy to realize remote spatio‐temporal control of luminescence behaviors is reported. A multi‐arm salicylaldehyde benzoylhydrazone‐based aggregation‐induced emission luminogen (AIEgen)/metal‐ion system, of which the fluorescence can be gated by the UV irradiation with time dependency, is developed. By changing the metal‐ion species, the fluorescence emission and the intensity can also be tuned. The mechanism of the UV‐mediated fluorescence change is investigated, and it is revealed that a phototriggered aggregation‐induced emission (PTAIE) process contributes to the behaviors. The AIEgen is further covalently integrated into a polymeric network and the formed gel/metal‐ion system can achieve laser‐mediated mask‐free writing enabled by the PTAIE process. Moreover, by further taking advantage of the time‐dependent self‐healing property of hydrazone‐based dynamic covalent bond, transformable 4D soft patterns are generated. The findings and the strategy increase the ways to manipulate molecules on the supramolecule or aggregate level. They also show opportunities for the development of controllable smart materials and expand the scope of the materials in advanced optoelectronic applications.
Promoting Oral Mucosal Wound Healing with a Hydrogel Adhesive Based on a Phototriggered S‐Nitrosylation Coupling Reaction
Authors: Zhang Wenjie , Bao Bingkun , Jiang Fei , Zhang Yiqing , Zhou Renjie , Lu Yuezhi , Lin Sihan , Lin Qiuning , Jiang Xinquan , Zhu Linyong
Published: October 2021

The wet and highly dynamic environment of the mouth makes local treatment of oral mucosal diseases challenging. To overcome this, a photo‐crosslinking hydrogel adhesive is developed inspired by the success of light‐curing techniques in dentistry. The adhesive operates on a fast (within 5 s) phototriggered S‐nitrosylation coupling reaction and employs imine anchoring to connect to host tissues. Unlike other often‐used clinical agents that adhere weakly and for short durations, this thin, elastic, adhesive, and degradable cyclic o‐nitrobenzyl‐modified hyaluronic acid gel protects mucosal wounds from disturbance by liquid rinsing, oral movement, and friction for more than 24 h. The results from both rat and pig oral mucosa repair models demonstrate that this new gel adhesive creates a favorable microenvironment for tissue repair and can shorten tissue healing time. This study thus illustrates a therapeutic strategy with the potential to advance the treatment of oral mucosal defects in the clinic.
A Cognitive Control Approach for Networked Control Systems with Random Packet Losses
Authors: Wang Shuti , Yin Xunhe , Li Peng , Wang Xin , Wang Ge , Hu Jiankun
Published: October 2021

This paper presents a novel hybrid cognitive control method inspired by human brain mechanism for networked control systems (NCSs) with random packet dropouts. The random packet losses are assumed to occur in both channels from sensor to controller and from controller to actuator. Different from most of the existing studies, the information entropy is utilized to characterize the uncertainties of the random packet dropouts. A hybrid cognitive control model is designed for NCSs subject to random packet losses. More specifically, the proposed hybrid cognitive control algorithm is constructed by using the Q‐learning and backstepping control simultaneously. That is, the Q‐learning is employed for the cognitive controller to regulate the backstepping controller and meantime act on the control object. In addition, the information gap is defined based on the information entropy, and used for depicting the uncertainties of the random packet dropouts. Simulation results are performed to validate the designed hybrid cognitive control method, demonstrating that it can eliminate the effects of packet losses and thus performs better than the traditional backstepping or proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) controllers.
Vertically Stacked Soliton‐Like Domain Walls in Nematic Liquid Crystals
Authors: Jones Reed , Melnyk Olha , Macêdo Rair , Camley Robert E.
Published: October 2021

In the standard liquid crystal (LC) geometry, one generally finds a quasi‐parabolic director profile in the vertical direction, where the directors are aligned with an applied field in the center of the cell. In contrast, using a numerical energy minimization approach, we find that there are multiple metastable solutions where the director profile is oscillatory. At low voltages, we find small oscillations, which evolve into standard soliton‐like domain walls as the applied voltage is increased. We predict the thickness of the domain wall with a simple analytic model that gives a good comparison to our numerical calculations, in the standard domain wall regime. For dual‐frequency nematic LCs, the occurrence of this regime can be tuned by a change of the biasing frequency. Moreover, we investigate how domain walls can affect the optical properties of LC‐based devices. For instance, we find that the transmittance curve shifts to higher voltages as domain walls are introduced. This shift can be used to create an efficient tunable filter.
Device Geometry Insights for Efficient Electrically Driven Insulator‐to‐Metal Transition in Vanadium Dioxide Thin‐Films
Authors: Kabir Sumaiya , Nirantar Shruti , Monshipouri Mahta , Low Mei Xian , Walia Sumeet , Sriram Sharath , Bhaskaran Madhu
Published: October 2021

Vanadium dioxide (VO2) is a versatile phase change material that undergoes insulator‐to‐metal transition (IMT) triggered by multiple stimuli such as temperature, light, and electricity. Electrical stimuli offer greater degree of control over selected regions, with high density and addressability. However, there is limited understanding of parameters that govern electrically activated IMT, especially device structure and channel width. This work presents a metal–insulator–metal (MIM) structure to investigate three electrode arrangements: offset, no offset, and overlapping. It is experimentally determined that among the three electrode arrangements, the overlapping configuration of the device needs the least amount of voltage for switching, which is also supported by simulation results. In contrast, IMT in VO2is independent of extent of overlap between top and bottom electrodes and channel width. These findings are integral to designing and controlling the functional domains of VO2for energy‐efficient, addressable, and scalable micro/nanoscale devices and sensor applications.
A Cobalt‐ and Manganese‐Free High‐Nickel Layered Oxide Cathode for Long‐Life, Safer Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Cui Zehao , Xie Qiang , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: October 2021

High‐nickel LiNi1−x−yMnxCoyO2 and LiNi1−x−yCoxAlyO2 cathodes are receiving growing attention due to the burgeoning demands on high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries. The presence of both cobalt and manganese in them, however, triggers multiple issues, including high cost, high toxicity, rapid surface deterioration, and severe transition‐metal dissolution. Herein, a Co‐ and Mn‐free ultrahigh‐nickel LiNi0.93Al0.05Ti0.01Mg0.01O2 (NATM) cathode that exhibits 82% capacity retention over 800 deep cycles in full cells, outperforming two representative high‐Ni cathodes LiNi0.94Co0.06O2 (NC, 52%) and LiNi0.90Mn0.05Co0.05O2 (NMC, 60%) is presented. It is demonstrated that a titanium‐enriched surface along with aluminum and magnesium as the stabilizing ions in NATM not only ameliorates unwanted side reactions with the electrolyte and structural disintegrity, but also mitigates transition‐metal dissolution and active lithium loss on the graphite anode. As a result, the graphite anode paired with NATM displays an ultrathin (≈8 nm), monolayer anode‐electrolyte interphase architecture after extensive cycling. Furthermore, NATM displays considerably enhanced thermal stability with an elevated exothermic temperature (213 °C for NATM vs 180 and 190 °C for NC and NMC, respectively) and remarkably reduced heat release. This work sheds light on rational compositional design to adopt ultrahigh‐Ni cathodes in lithium‐based batteries with low cost, long service life, and improved thermal stability.
Synthesis of Bicyclo[2.2.2]octanes with a Quaternary Bridgehead Carbon by Diphenylprolinol Silyl Ether‐mediated Domino Reaction
Authors: Umekubo Nariyoshi , Taniguchi Tohru , Monde Kenji , Hayashi Yujiro
Published: October 2021

Bicyclo[2.2.2]octane derivatives possessing a quaternary bridgehead carbon were synthesized with excellent diastereoselectivity in nearly optically pure form by diphenylprolinol silyl ether mediated domino Michael/Michael reaction of α,β‐unsaturated aldehyde and cyclohex‐2‐en‐1‐one bearing an electron‐withdrawing group at the 3‐position. Carbonitrile, alkoxycarbonyl, and sulfonyl substituents were successfully employed as a suitable electron‐withdrawing group at the 3‐position of cyclohex‐2‐en‐1‐one.
Survey anatomy and histological observation of the nasal cavity of Tupaia belangeri chinensis (Tupaiidae, Scandentia, Mammalia)
Authors: Feng Yiwei , Xia Wei , Zhao Pengcheng , Yi Xiang , Tang Anzhou
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to provide researchers with an atlas of the survey anatomy, histology, and imaging of the nasal cavity of Tupaia belangeri chinensis. Seven T. b. chinensis adult males were euthanized and scanned using micro‐computed tomography (CT). The nose was separated, and tissue sections were made on the coronal and axial planes to observe the survey anatomy and histological and imaging characteristics of the nose. T. b. chinensis contains one maxilloturbinal and three ethmoturbinals, one nasoturbinal, one interturbinal, two frontoturbinals, and one lamina semicircularis in the unilateral nasal cavity. Other identified structures were the ostiomeatal complex, vomeronasal organ, superior nasal vault, maxillary sinus, and frontal recess. The drainage pathways of the sinuses and nasal airflow in T. b. chinensis were confirmed. The vault epithelium consisted of the squamous epithelium, respiratory epithelium, transitional epithelium, and olfactory epithelium. Micro‐CT confirmed our findings of the coronal tissue sections. The nasal cavity anatomy of T. b. chinensis is similar to that of some strepsirrhine primates. However, the airflow and olfactory function are quite different from that of humans. Our gross and histological atlas of the nasal septum, turbinals, maxillary sinus, and frontal recess provides a reference for researchers to use T. b. chinensis for nasal cavity functional research.
Supramolecular Strategies for the Recycling of Homogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Bo , Reek Joost N. H.
Published: October 2021

Supramolecular approaches are increasingly used in the development of homogeneous catalysts and they also provide interesting new tools for the recycling of metal‐based catalysts. Various non‐covalent interactions have been utilized for the immobilization homogeneous catalysts on soluble and insoluble support. By non‐covalent anchoring the supported catalysts obtained can be recovered via (nano‐) filtration or such catalytic materials can be used in continuous flow reactors. Specific benefits from the reversibility of catalyst immobilization by non‐covalent interactions include the possibility to re‐functionalize the support material and the use as “boomerang” type catalyst systems in which the catalyst is captured after a homogeneous reaction. In addition, new reactor design with implemented recycling strategies becomes possible, such as a reverse‐flow adsorption reactor (RFA) that combines a homogeneous reactor with selective catalyst adsorption/desorpion. Next to these non‐covalent immobilization strategies, supramolecular chemistry can also be used to generate the support, for example by generation of self‐assembled gels with catalytic function. Although the stability is a challenging issue, some self‐assembled gel materials have been successfully utilized as reusable heterogeneous catalysts. In addition, catalytically active coordination cages, which are frequently used to achieve specific activity or selectivity, can be bound to support by ionic interactions or can be prepared in structured solid materials. These new heterogenized cage materials also have been used successfully as recyclable catalysts.
Comparative pharmacokinetics, intestinal absorption and urinary excretion of six alkaloids from herb pair Phellodendri Chinensis cortex–Atractylodis Rhizoma
Authors: Liu Chang‐Shun , Hu Yan‐Nan , Luo Zhen‐Ye , Xia Ting , Chen Fei‐Long , Tang Qing‐Fa , Tan Xiao‐Mei
Published: October 2021

Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex (PCC) and Atractylodis Rhizoma (AR) are frequently used as herb pair to treat eczema and gout owing to their synergistic effects. Alkaloids are the major ingredients from PCC and the effect of their combination on the in vivo processing of alkaloids remains unclear. In this study, a simple and reliable UPLC–MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of six alkaloids in rat plasma was developed. This method was applied to a comparative pharmacokinetic study between PCC and PCC–AR in rats. Effect of AR on absorption of alkaloids was investigated by a single‐pass intestinal perfusion study. The effect of AR on urinary excretion of alkaloids was studied. Pharmacokinetic studies showed that the values of rea under the concentration–time curve of phellodendrine, magnoflorine and palmatine were greater in the PCC–AR group than in the PCC group. The intestinal absorptive parameters absorption rate constant and effective permeability of phellodendrine and jatrorrhizine in PCC–AR groups were higher than those in the PCC group. Urinary excretion studies revealed that the excreted amount of alkaloids in the PCC–AR group was lower than that in the PCC group. The results revealed that the combination of PCC and AR improves intestinal absorption of alkaloids and reduces their urinary excretion, which enhances their systemic exposure. This study may explain the synergetic effects of PCC and AR in clinical applications.
Treatment of phalangeal osteomyelitis caused by a cat bite
Authors: Kim Ji WooK , Kim Joo Yong , Kim Uk Gwan , Kang Dong Hee , Kim Doo Sik , Kim Ju Deok
Published: October 2021

In the case of a cat bite patient, even if the external wound is small, prophylactic antibiotics should be used early and a closed observation is needed. If symptoms persist, deep infection should be considered.
Optimized data gathering in a heterogeneous Internet of Things network
Authors: Hamidouche Ranida , Aliouat Zibouda , Abba Ari Ado Adamou , Gueroui Abdelhak Mourad
Published: October 2021

Recent research introduces data gathering using mobile data collectors to conserve energy and elevate the hotspot problem. However, many of them suffer from buffer overflow due to the limited memory capacity of objects, even more, when dealing with heterogeneous Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Emerging bio‐inspiration technologies provide a novel direction for data collection and make it more intelligent and available. In this paper, we present an intelligent data gathering schema by taking into consideration buffer overflow called Center Gravity Mobile data collector based on Salp Swarm Algorithm (CGMSSA). To conduct data collection to improve the network performance, we adopt a hybridized distributed bio‐inspired technique to elect chefs and salp swarm intelligence to control data collector movement. First, we select chefs using grey wolf optimization. Then, several groups are formed. Then, a mobile data collector is adopted to access chefs, following the buffer overflow value and gather information. Considerable experiments are conducted to demonstrate that our solution can efficiently enhance the lifetime of the network and increase data throughput.
16 Years of breed management brings substantial improvement in population genetics of the endangered Cleveland Bay Horse
Authors: Dell Andrew , Curry Mark , Hunter Elena , Dalton Ruth , Yarnell Kelly , Starbuck Gareth , Wilson Philippe B.
Published: October 2021

The consequences of poor breed management and inbreeding can range from gradual declines in individual productivity to more serious fertility and mortality concerns. However, many small and closed groups, as well as larger unmanaged populations, are plagued by genetic regression, often due to a dearth in breeding support tools which are accessible and easy to use in supporting decision‐making. To address this, we have developed a population management tool (BCAS, Breed Conservation and Management System) based on individual relatedness assessed using pedigree‐based kinship, which offers breeding recommendations for such populations. Moreover, we demonstrate the success of this tool in 16 years of employment in a closed equine population native to the UK, most notably, the rate of inbreeding reducing from more than 3% per generation, to less than 0.5%, or that attributed to genetic drift, as assessed over the last 16 years of implementation. Furthermore, with adherence to this program, the long‐term impact of poor management has been reversed and the genetic resource within the breed has grown from an effective population size of 20 in 1994 to more than 140 in 2020. The development and availability of our BCAS for breed management and selection establish a new paradigm for the successful maintenance of genetic resources in animal populations.
Experimental comparison between R134a/R744 and R438A/R744 (drop‐in) cascade refrigeration systems based on energy consumption and greenhouse gases emissions
Authors: Queiroz Marcus Vinícius Almeida , Blanco Ojeda Frank William Adolfo , Amjad Muhammad , Riaz Fahid , Salman Chaudhary Awais , Parise José Alberto Reis , Bandarra Filho Enio Pedone
Published: October 2021

This experimental study evaluates the energy performance and climatic changes of a cascade cooling system operating with the R134a/R744 pairs (cooling capacity of 4.5‐6 kW) and R438A/R744. In both cases, the low‐temperature refrigerant, R744, operated under subcritical conditions. The experimental apparatus basically consists of two vapor‐compression cycles coupled by a plate cascade condenser. Two operational variables, from R744 cycle, were controlled: the degree‐of‐superheat and the compressor frequency. The experiment was initially assembled to pair R134a/R744. Subsequently, the R134a refrigerant charge in the high‐temperature cycle was replaced by R438A, on a drop‐in basis. The two systems, R134a/R744 and R438A/R744, were compared for similar cooling capacities and cold chamber air temperatures. Results showed that the energy consumption of the high‐temperature compressor, operating with R438A, was higher than R134a for all tests. As a result, the COP values for R438A/R744 were 30% lower than those for R134a/R744. The greenhouse gases emissions of the two systems were evaluated using the total equivalent warming impact factor, TEWI, whose value for the R438A/R744 pair was approximately 29.5% higher, compared with R134a/R744. Since R438A was originally designed to substitute R22, a few comparative tests were carried out with the latter, always with R744 as the low‐temperature cycle working fluid.
Superfruits in China: Bioactive phytochemicals and their potential health benefits – A Review
Authors: Liu Jinfang , Xu Duoxia , Chen Shuai , Yuan Fang , Mao Like , Gao Yanxiang
Published: October 2021

The term “superfruit” usually refers to certain fruits, which are rich in antioxidant components, therefore, are beneficial to human health. In China, there has been the concept of health preservation and dietary therapy through food intake in a long history. However, some other superfruits growing mainly in China have not attracted extensive attention, such as Cili, Goji berry, and sea buckthorn. Many studies suggested all of these superfruits showed strong antioxidant effects and anti‐inflammatory activity in common. However, there are various other advantages and functions in different fruits. This article reviewed the research findings from the existing literature published about major antioxidant bioactive compounds and the potential health benefits of these fruits. The phytochemicals from superfruits are bioaccessible and bioavailable in humans with promising health benefits. More studies are needed to validate the health benefits of these superfruits. It would provide essential information for further research and functional food development.
Environmental performance and international trade in China: The role of renewable energy and eco-innovation
Authors: Liu Jili , Nathaniel Solomon P. , Chupradit Supat , Hussain Arsalan , Köksal Cihat , Aziz Noshaba
Published: October 2021

Renewable energy and green innovation can enhance environmental performance by encouraging international trade, as anticipated by the current theoretical framework. This study investigates how renewable energy and eco-innovation affect international trade and environmental performance using quarterly data series from 1981 to 2018 for China. The study applies a quantile-based autoregressive distributed lag model. The results indicate that environmental innovation and renewable energy are consistent with environmental quality, while trade openness and urbanization contribute to environmental degradation by stimulating CO2 emissions. In addition, the quantile causality test showed a bidirectional causality between renewable energy and CO2 emissions, trade openness and CO2 emissions, and urbanization and CO2 emissions. Additionally, the findings lend theoretical support for the formulation of environmentally protective policies to better understand the role of renewable energy in stimulating international trade, which eventually enhances environmental performance. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;18:813–823. © 2021 SETAC

KEY POINTS

The study applies the Quantile based Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model. The results indicate that eco-innovation and renewable energy are consistent with environmental quality. Trade openness and urbanization contribute to environmental degradation.
The unfavorable effects of COVID‐19 on Dutch advanced melanoma care
Authors: van Not Olivier J. , van Breeschoten Jesper , van den Eertwegh Alfonsus J. M. , Hilarius Doranne L. , De Meza Melissa M. , Haanen John B. , Blank Christian U. , Aarts Maureen J. B. , van den Berkmortel Franchette W. P. J. , de Groot Jan Willem B. , Hospers Geke A. P. , Ismail Rawa K. , Kapiteijn Ellen , Piersma Djura , van Rijn Rozemarijn S. , Stevense‐den Boer Marion A. M. , van der Veldt Astrid A. M. , Vreugdenhil Gerard , Boers‐Sonderen Marye J. , Blokx Willeke A. M. , Suijkerbuijk Karijn P. M. , Wouters Michel W. J. M.
Published: October 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic had a severe impact on medical care. Our study aims to investigate the impact of COVID‐19 on advanced melanoma care in the Netherlands. We selected patients diagnosed with irresectable stage IIIc and IV melanoma during the first and second COVID‐19 wave and compared them with patients diagnosed within the same time frame in 2018 and 2019. Patients were divided into three geographical regions. We investigated baseline characteristics, time from diagnosis until start of systemic therapy and postponement of anti‐PD‐1 courses. During both waves, fewer patients were diagnosed compared to the control groups. During the first wave, time between diagnosis and start of treatment was significantly longer in the southern region compared to other regions (33 vs 9 and 15 days, P‐value <.05). Anti‐PD‐1 courses were postponed in 20.0% vs 3.0% of patients in the first wave compared to the control period. Significantly more patients had courses postponed in the south during the first wave compared to other regions (34.8% vs 11.5% vs 22.3%, P‐value <.001). Significantly more patients diagnosed during the second wave had brain metastases and worse performance status compared to the control period. In conclusion, advanced melanoma care in the Netherlands was severely affected by the COVID‐19 pandemic. In the south, the start of systemic treatment for advanced melanoma was more often delayed, and treatment courses were more frequently postponed. During the second wave, patients were diagnosed with poorer patient and tumor characteristics. Longer follow‐up is needed to establish the impact on patient outcomes.
Trends and projections in the incidence of oesophageal cancer in the Netherlands: An age‐period‐cohort analysis from 1989 to 2041
Authors: de Vegt Femmie , Gommers Jessie J. J. , Groenewoud Hans , Siersema Peter D. , Verbeek André L. M. , Peters Yonne , Broeders Mireille J. M.
Published: October 2021

In Western populations, the incidence of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has been declining, whereas the incidence of oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC) has been increasing. Our study examines temporal trends in the incidence of oesophageal cancer in the Netherlands between 1989 and 2016, in addition to predicting future trends through 2041. Data from the Netherlands Cancer Registry and Statistics Netherlands were collected to obtain incidence trends of OSCC and OAC for the period 1989 to 2016. Age‐period‐cohort (APC) modelling was used to estimate the contribution of age, calendar period and birth cohort on the observed incidence trends. To predict the future numbers of new cases of both OSCC and OAC from 2017 to 2041, log‐linear APC models were fitted to the trends of 1989 to 2016. The age‐standardised incidence rates of OSCC have decreased slightly for men and increased slightly for women. In contrast, a marked increase in the incidence of OAC was observed, ranging from 2.8 per 100 000 persons in 1989 to 10.1 in 2016. This increase in OAC incidence was more prominent in men, and it will result in an increased risk of OAC for successive generations. Future projections indicate that the incidence of OAC will further increase to 13.1 per 100 000 persons in 2037 to 2041, meaning that there will be 13 259 cases of OAC in 2037 to 2041, as compared to 9386 diagnoses in 2017 to 2021. The changing epidemiologic trends in oesophageal cancer in the Netherlands should be reflected in the development of prevention, early detection and treatment strategies.
Preoperative ureteral stenting in women with deep posterior endometriosis and ureteral involvement: Is it useful?
Authors: Borghese Giulia , Raimondo Diego , Esposti Eugenia Degli , Aru Anna Chiara , Raffone Antonio , Orsini Benedetta , Ambrosio Marco , Iodice Raffaella , Lenzi Jacopo , Del Forno Simona , Casadio Paolo , Seracchioli Renato
Published: October 2021

Objective

Systematic placement of a ureteral stent before surgery for posterior deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) was previously recommended, but it could increase perioperative complications. We evaluate the role of preoperative ureteral stent in women requiring surgery for ureteral involvement (UI) with large posterior DIE nodules and/or grade I–II hydronephrosis.

Methods

Women undergoing minimally invasive surgery for DIE with UI having posterior nodules >3 cm and/or grade I–II hydronephrosis from 2014 to 2019 were retrospectively included. We progressively changed our strategy from a systematic pre‐operative stent insertion (S‐PS, up to 2016) to a non‐systematic one (NS‐PS, from 2016).

Results

Eighty‐eight women in the S‐PS group and 96 in the NS‐PS were included. Low urinary tract infections (UTI) were higher in the S‐PS group (13.6% vs 2.1%, P = 0.003). Hospital stay was longer in women with S‐PS (9.8 ± 5.3 days vs 6.7 ± 2.5 days, P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis confirmed a significant association between NS‐PS and low UTI (adjusted OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.05–0.81, P = 0.024).

Conclusion

Systematic placement of a ureteral stent before surgery in women requiring surgery does not reduce overall perioperative complication rate, but it is associated with a longer duration of hospitalization and a higher low UTI rate.
“Suction Tube Uterine Tamponade” for treatment of refractory postpartum hemorrhage: Internal feasibility and acceptability pilot of a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Cebekhulu Sylvia N. , Abdul Hazmath , Batting Joanne , Chauke Lawrence , Dlakavu Fuziwe , Fawcus Sue , Govender Logie , Majeke Busiwe , Mbongozi Xolani , Singata‐Madliki Mandisa , Middleton Katrin , Mlandu Philiswa , Naidoo Poovangela , Ndaba Sanele , Soma‐Pillay Priya , Spence Trevi , Ntambua Symphorien C. , Hofmeyr Justus
Published: October 2021

Objective

To assess feasibility and acceptability of a novel, low‐cost “Suction Tube Uterine Tamponade” (STUT) treatment for refractory postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).

Methods

We allocated patients with refractory PPH by randomly ordered envelopes to STUT or routine uterine balloon tamponade (UBT, Ellavi free‐flow system) in 10 hospitals in South Africa. In the STUT group, a 24FG Levin stomach tube was inserted into the uterine cavity and vacuum created with a vacuum pump or manual vacuum aspiration syringe.

Results

For this internal pilot study, 12 participants were allocated to STUT and 12 to UBT. Insertion failed in one of each group and was recorded as difficult in 3/10 STUT and 4/9 UBT insertions respectively (five missing data). There were two laparotomies and one intensive care unit admission in the UBT group. Pain during STUT insertion was graded as none/mild in 9/10 and severe in 1/10. The experience of the STUT procedure was graded as fine in 4/11 and “uncomfortable but acceptable” in 7/11.

Conclusion

STUT is feasible and acceptable, justifying continuation of our trial. These data will also inform a large World Health Organization trial to test effectiveness of uterine tamponade methods. The numbers are too small to support any clinical recommendation.
Optimization of sonication parameters to obtain food emulsions stabilized by zein: formation of zein–diutan gum/zein–guar gum complexes
Authors: Santos Jenifer , Trujillo‐Cayado Luis A , Carrello Henrique , Cidade Maria T , Alfaro Maria‐Carmen
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Zein as a sole material is not suitable for technological applications since it is not flexible. A possible solution to extend the applications of zein is the formation of zein–polysaccharide complexes. As a first step, sonication parameters were optimized to obtain finer emulsions formulated with zein, rosemary essential oil as food preservative, and sunflower oil, by means of response surface methodology. After the formation of these guar– or diutan–zein complexes the rheological properties of these food emulsions were evaluated.

RESULTS

An increase in sonication power, sonication time and cycles provoked a decrease in mean droplet size and a lack of recoalescence. The optimized emulsion was the starting point to form two different complexes: zein with diutan gum and zein with guar gum at different concentrations. Rheological properties as well as the microstructure observed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) were analyzed. Interestingly, zein–guar gum complexes did not form a rheological gel; as a consequence, emulsions containing them seem to undergo a destabilization process with aging time. In contrast, emulsions formulated with zein–diutan gum presented a 3D network, observed by FESEM technique and proved by rheological measurements.

CONCLUSION

While emulsions containing zein–guar gum complexes did not form networks to stabilize oil droplets, zein–diutan gum complexes did. This work brings to light the importance of the selection of polysaccharide used in food emulsions formulated with zein. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Soil recovery of alluvial gold mine spoils in the Peruvian Amazon using Stylosanthes guianensis, a promising cover crop
Authors: Velásquez Ramírez Manuel Gabriel , del Castillo Torres Dennis , Guerrero Barrantes Juan Antonio , Vásquez Bardales Joel , Thomas Evert , Cusi Auca Edgar , Chinen Gushiken Midori , Muñoz Diaz Betzy , Russo Ricardo , Corvera Gomringer Ronald
Published: October 2021

The Amazon is an important reservoir of biodiversity and carbon but it is under pressure by multiple threats such as artisanal and small‐scale gold mining (ASGM). In Peru ASGM has degraded 90,000 ha of old‐growth forest since the eighties, leaving vast areas as wastelands. As most ASGM in the region is illegal, efforts to recover degraded areas have been scant. Here we assessed the potential of Stylosanthes guianensis to recover soil health as a first step in the restoration of gold mine spoils in a Native community and a mining concession in Madre de Dios, Peru. We evaluated plant growth and analyzed changes in physical, chemical, and biological soil parameters. After 470 days from sowing, the average plant height was 46.7 cm with a survival rate >50% and yields of 23.9 t ha−1 and 450 kg ha−1 of dry biomass and nitrogen, respectively. Multiple soil parameters increased significantly, including cationic exchange capacity (3.3 to 4.0 cmol [+] kg−1), soil organic matter (0.03% to 0.39%), soil respiration (0.02 to 0.06 mg CO2 g−1 d−1) and biomass (0.03 to 0.15 mg C g−1). Soil macrofauna increased from 2 to 11 taxonomic groups, including ants, considered as soil engineers. Furthermore, S. guianensis increased soil carbon sequestration of impacted areas from 0.004 t C ha−1 by more than 1650%, up to 0.07 t C ha−1. These promising findings clearly illustrate S. guianensis potential to kick‐start natural succession of Amazonian forests after degradation by ASGM and hence help to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
Eco‐physiological responses of Calamagrostis epigejos L (Roth) and Solidago gigantea Aition to complex environmental stresses in coal‐mine spoil heaps
Authors: Kompała‐Bąba Agnieszka , Sierka Edyta , Bierza Wojciech , Bąba Wojciech , Błońska Agnieszka , Woźniak Gabriela
Published: October 2021

We present a study of short and long‐term responses of photosynthetic apparatus and anti‐oxidant capacity to complex abiotic stresses of Calamagrostis epigejos and Solidago gigantea commonly occurring in seminatural habitats and novel ecosystems of coal‐mine spoil heaps. Drought/salinity and elevated temperature were dominant abiotic stressors triggering both species‐ and habitat‐specific responses, confirmed by ChlF induction curves analysis. Although in both species a decrease in net photosynthetic rate (A) and transpiration rate (E) in spoil heap were observed, Ce showed higher (A) on both habitats in comparison to Sg. Moreover, we found higher H2O2 concentration in Sg leaves as compared to Ce leaves, large differences in catalase (CAT) activity and the reverse pattern of lipid peroxidation in Sg and Ce populations, suggesting species‐specific differences in antioxidative mechanisms. The Sg individuals developed structural and functional adaptations to protect PSA against drought/salinity stresses (lower leaf chlorophyll, higher flavonoids content, ChlF parameters: Vi, Vj, dVG/dto). The Ce populations have higher values of JIP parameters related to the electron transfer site within PSI. Mechanisms of plant species adaptation to industrial areas are crucial for species selection and planning effective reclamation of them. In novel ecosystems of spoil heaps both species responded differently to complex abiotic stresses in comparison to seminatural ones that enable them to gain success on both sites. They can spontaneously colonize such areas, create permanent plant cover, and produce large amounts of biomass. Further research on plant traits response and adaptation to complex environmental stresses on industrial habitats are needed.
Spent Coffee Grounds as Property Enhancing Filler in a Wholly Bio‐Based Epoxy Resin
Authors: Tellers Jonathan , Willems Philippe , Tjeerdsma Bôke , Sbirrazzuoli Nicolas , Guigo Nathanaël
Published: October 2021

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world but generates copious amounts of waste that is usually discarded. This discarded waste, the so‐called spent coffee grounds (SCGs), can become a valuable resource if compelling use cases are found. Following a circular economy approach, one such use case can be employing SCGs as filler in polymer matrices, complementing conventional inorganic fillers such as kaolin clay. This work studies the effect of SCGs as filler in wholly natural thermosets, investigating changes in curing kinetics and final material properties. Different SCG content, for example, 25 to 35 wt% and various curing time and temperature is employed. SCGs are found to have a moderate catalytic effect on the curing reaction. Furthermore, SCGs are found to heavily increase stiffness of the final material, especially when oils present in SCGs are previously extracted, raising the rubber plateau modulus from around 5 MPa to 14 MPa. Extracted SCGs are most efficient during curing at room temperature, where they significantly improved the tensile strength, toughness, and hardness of the filled material compared to the pristine resin.
Research ability and research motivation of postgraduate nursing students in traditional Chinese medicine colleges
Authors: Zhang Jia‐Hui , Pang Shu‐Qin , Ge Li , Wang Guan‐Ming , Luo Zong‐Ting , Hong Xue‐Pei , Li Xin‐yu
Published: October 2021

Aim

To investigate the relationship between research ability and research motivation of postgraduate nursing students in traditional Chinese medicine colleges and identify other factors that may have an impact on the research ability of postgraduate nursing students.

Design

A cross‐sectional electronic survey was used to collect data from 191 postgraduate nursing students.

Methods

A total of 191 postgraduate nursing students from seven traditional Chinese medicine colleges were investigated from October to November 2020 using self‐rated scales for research ability and research motivation. The relationship between the variables affecting the research ability of postgraduate nursing students in traditional Chinese medicine colleges was determined.

Results

There was a positive correlation between the score of self‐rated research ability and research motivation among 191 postgraduate nursing students in traditional Chinese medicine colleges. Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that grade, research motivation, age and active participation in class discussions were the main factors affecting the self‐rated research ability.

Conclusion

The self‐rated research ability of postgraduate nursing students in traditional Chinese medicine colleges is positively correlated with research motivation. According to the research motivation orientation, adopting targeted training methods and establishing correct professional understanding may improve the research ability of postgraduate nursing students.
From the clinic to the community: Can health system data accurately estimate population obesity prevalence?
Authors: Mooney Stephen J. , Song Lin , Drewnowski Adam , Buskiewicz James , Mooney Sean D. , Saelens Brian E. , Arterburn David E.
Published: October 2021

Objective

Health system data were assessed for how well they can estimate obesity prevalence in census tracts.

Methods

Clinical visit data were available from two large health systems (Kaiser Permanente Washington and University of Washington Medicine) in King County, Washington, as were census tract–level obesity prevalence estimates from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). The health system data were geocoded to identify each patient’s tract of residence, and the cross‐sectional concordance between census tract–level obesity prevalence estimates computed from the two health systems in 2005 to 2006 and the concordance between University of Washington Medicine and BRFSS from 2012 to 2016 were assessed.

Results

The spatial distribution of obesity was similar between the health systems (Spearman r = 0.63). The University of Washington Medicine estimates of rank order correlated well with BRFSS estimates (Spearman r = 0.85), though prevalence estimates from BRFSS were lower (mean obesity prevalence = 26% for University of Washington Medicine versus 20% for BRFSS, Wilcoxon rank sum test p < 0.001). Across all data sources, obesity was more prevalent in tracts with less educational attainment.

Conclusions

Health system clinical weight data can reliably replicate census tract–level spatial patterns in the ranking of obesity prevalence. Health system data may be an efficient resource for geographic obesity surveillance.
Localisation of the Sustainable Development Goals in an emerging nation
Authors: Jain Ameeta , Courvisanos Jerry , Subramaniam Nava
Published: October 2021

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), agreed to by all member countries of the United Nations, require urgent action on the world's most pressing problems. Success requires bottom‐up participation of local stakeholders. This case study of Timor‐Leste—a fledgling, fossil fuel‐supported economy—maps the awareness and commitment of grassroots stakeholders to the SDGs and the roadblocks to localisation. Guiding this paper is Habermas’ view of societal evolution and communicative action, which aids analysing the socio‐political and structural dynamics affecting SDGs localisation in a developing nation. This study reveals stakeholder inability to articulate a clear vision for the SDGs, lack of human capital and funds, a weak public‐administrative system, strong socio‐political nuances, and poor governance infrastructure to support multi‐stakeholder relationships. This paper provides insights for developing a more nuanced and robust public intervention to support local stakeholders that will enable knowledge, cultural and communication transformations required for successful SDGs localisation.