bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biodegradable High‐Density Polyethylene‐like Material
Authors: Eck Marcel , Schwab Simon Timm , Nelson Taylor Frederick , Wurst Katrin , Iberl Steffen , Schleheck David , Link Christoph , Battagliarin Glauco , Mecking Stefan
Published: December 2022

We report a novel polyester material generated from readily available biobased 1,18‐octadecanedicarboxylic acid and ethylene glycol possesses a polyethylene‐like solid‐state structure and also tensile properties similar to high density polyethylene (HDPE). Despite its crystallinity, high melting point (Tm=96 °C) and hydrophobic nature, polyester‐2,18 is subject to rapid and complete hydrolytic degradation in in vitro assays with isolated naturally occurring enzymes. Under industrial composting conditions (ISO standard 14855‐1) the material is biodegraded with mineralization above 95 % within two months. Reference studies with polyester‐18,18 (Tm=99 °C) reveal a strong impact of the nature of the diol repeating unit on degradation rates, possibly related to the density of ester groups in the amorphous phase. Depolymerization by methanolysis indicates suitability for closed‐loop recycling.
Increasing Molecular Planarity through Donor/Side‐Chain Engineering for Improved NIR‐IIa Fluorescence Imaging and NIR‐II Photothermal Therapy under 1064 nm
Authors: Chen Shangyu , Pan Yonghui , Chen Kai , Chen Pengfei , Shen Qingming , Sun Pengfei , Hu Wenbo , Fan Quli
Published: December 2022

Developing conjugated small molecules (CSM) with intense NIR‐II (1000–1700 nm) absorption for phototheranostic is highly desirable but remains a tremendous challenge due to a lack of reliable design guidelines. This study reports a high‐performance NIR‐II CSM for phototheranostic by tailoring molecular planarity. A series of CSM show bathochromic absorption extended to the NIR‐II region upon the increasing thiophene number, but an excessive number of thiophene results in decreased NIR‐IIa (1300–1400 nm) brightness and photothermal effects. Further introduction of terminal nonconjugated alkyl chain can enhance NIR‐II absorption coefficient, NIR‐IIa brightness, and photothermal effects. Mechanism studies ascribe this overall enhancement to molecular planarity stemming from the collective contribution of donor/side‐chain engineering. This finding directs the design of NIR‐II CSM by rational manipulating molecular planarity to perform 1064 nm mediated phototheranostic at high efficiency.
Integrating Green Chemistry into Chemistry Education
Authors: Etzkorn Felicia A. , Ferguson Jamie L.
Published: December 2022

Full integration of green chemistry into the undergraduate curriculum is a necessity to prepare our students for a sustainable future. We discuss the reasons for the need to change the curriculum, the institutions in North America, Europe, and Asia that are leading the way towards integration with classroom resources, and the published textbooks that are currently available for both classroom and laboratory. We plead for more time for hard‐pressed college professors to revamp the curriculum, and for these efforts to be valued. We feel compelled by the urgency of this need to implore the chemistry education community to participate in these efforts now.
Copper supported on polyethyleneimine‐coated microparticles for the efficient synthesis of organoselenium compounds
Authors: de Souza Jaqueline F. , de Aquino Thalita F. B. , Nunes Pâmela P. P. , Bellettini Ismael C. , Hartwig Daniela , Jacob Raquel G. , Fajardo André R.
Published: December 2022

Copper‐catalyzed reactions are in continuous evidence due to their attractive features, and the use of solid materials to support this metal has broadened the possibilities in terms of application. To demonstrate this, polyacrylic acid (PAAc) microparticles coated with polyethyleneimine (PEI) were synthesized and utilized to support Cu2+ ions. These hybrid microparticles were tested as heterogeneous catalysts in the synthesis of 3‐arylselanylindoles. Overall, products were synthesized in good to moderate yields using 10 mg of the catalyst containing a meager amount of Cu2+ (2 μmol). Also, the heterogeneous reaction mediated by PEI@PAAc/Cu2+ microparticles was more efficient than the homogeneous catalysis. Reuse experiments demonstrated that PEI@PAAc/Cu2+ microparticles show appreciable catalytic performance up to three consecutive runs under the tested experimental conditions. Overall, the PEI@PAAc/Cu2+ microparticles serve as a support material for Cu2+ and can be exploited as heterogeneous catalysts for the synthesis of organoselenium compounds.
Generation of cosmic rays in pulsar wind nebulae
Authors: Sinitsyna Vera G. , Sinitsyna Vera Y.
Published: December 2022

The overall observations of plerions from radio to the very high energy gamma‐rays could provide information about the evolution of pulsar wind nebulae (PWN) from the young Crab‐like stage to the older plerion stages. Geminga is a nearby (250 pc) and middle‐aged pulsar of years. The Geminga pulsar wind nebula was detected in X‐rays, and the detailed studies reveal the morphological and spectral variability, which may raise a high energy emission. The extended MeV‐TeV emission from Geminga in SHALON, Milagro, HAWC observations, and Fermi‐LAT detection and upper limits could arise from the PWN associated with the Geminga SNR. 3C58 is similar to the Crab Nebula (explosion of the 1054 year) on many parameters, but these two objects differ significantly in luminosity and size at X‐rays and radio‐emission. The 3C 58 estimated age varies from to years. MeV‐GeV gamma‐ray emission from the nebula has been detected by Fermi‐LAT. The γ‐ray source associated with the 3C 58 was detected above 800 GeV for the first time by SHALON in observations of 2011 year and systematically studied since then. The overall spectral energy distribution and information about the extension of PWN from radio to GeV‐TeV energies can contribute to particle transport models and also to the understanding of the mechanisms of PWN expanding, which is, in turn, can shed light on the age of 3C 58 and the history of progenitor SN explosion.
How deep do you go? Clinical prediction of nasopharyngeal depth based on facial measurements
Authors: Dickie Alexander , Rocha Taciano , Maniaci Antonino , Ingrassia Angelo , Maria Saibene Alberto , Spagnolini Sofia , Locatello Luca Giovanni , Tucciarone Manuel , Radulesco Thomas , Rotenberg Brian , Sowerby Leigh J
Published: December 2022

Nasopharyngeal depth (ND) prediction is clinically relevant in performing medical procedures, and in enhancing technique accuracy and patient safety. Nonetheless, clinical predictive variables and normative data in adults remain limited. This study aimed to determine normative data on ND and its correlation to external facial measurements. A multicenter cross‐sectional study obtained data from adults presenting to otolaryngology clinics at five sites in Canada, Italy, and Spain. Investigators compared endoscopically measured depth from the nasal sill (soft tissue between the nasal ala and columella) to nasopharynx along the nasal floor to the “curved distance from the alar‐facial groove along the face to the tragus” and “distance from the tragus to a plane perpendicular to the philtrum.” When sinus computed tomography images were available, the distance from the nasopharynx to the nasal sill was also collected. 371 patients participated in the study (41% women; 51 years old, SD 18). Average ND was 9.4 cm (SD 0.86) and 10.1 cm (SD 0.9) for women and men, respectively (p < 0.001; 95% CI 0.46–0.86). Perpendicular distance was strongly correlated to ND (r = 0.775; p < 0.001), with an average underestimation of 0.1 cm (SD 0.65; 95% CI 0.06–0.2). The equation: ND (cm) = perpendicular distance*0.773 + 2.344, generated from 271 randomly selected participants, and validated on 100 participants, resulted in a 0.03 cm prediction error (SD 0.61; 95% CI −0.08–0.16). Nasopharyngeal depth can be approximated by the distance from the tragus to a plane perpendicular to the philtrum.
Survival trends for patients with retinoblastoma between 2000 and 2018: What has changed?
Authors: Abdelazeem Basel , Abbas Kirellos Said , Shehata Joseph , El‐Shahat Nahla Ahmed , Eltaras Mennatullah Mohamed , Qaddoumi Ibrahim , Alfaar Ahmad Samir
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Retinoblastoma (RB) is the most common primary intraocular cancer of childhood. Over the last few decades, a variety of techniques and treatment modalities emerged that improved the survival and ocular salvage rate of patients with RB. We investigated the relative survival trends of patients with RB from 2000 to 2018 by using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

Design

Retrospective database review.

Methods

We extracted data from SEER 18 from 2000 to 2018. All patients with clinically diagnosed RB during the study period were included. We utilized SEER*Stat 8.3.9 and JPSurv software to estimate relative 5‐ and 10‐year survival rates and trends and generated descriptive analyses with IBM SPSS.

Main Outcome Measures

Patient survival rates at 5‐ and 10‐year after RB diagnosis.

Results

RB was diagnosed in 1479 patients within the SEER 18 Program during our study period. The cohort comprised 776 (52.5%) males, 615 (41.6%) non‐Hispanic whites, 487(32.9%) Hispanics, 1030 (69.6%) patients with unilateral disease, and 1087 (73.5%) patients with localized disease. Relative survival trends at 5‐ and 10‐year significantly declined over the study periods (−0.42%, and −0.50% annually, respectively) but the decline was not significant in unilateral and bilateral RB cases separately.

Conclusions

Five‐ and ten‐year relative survival trends declined from 2000 to 2018 and were significantly decreasing. Further studies that include more patients are needed to identify the factors contributing to reduced survival of patients with RB over time.
Screening of potential microbial markers for lung cancer using metagenomic sequencing
Authors: Chen Qiang , Hou Kai , Tang Mingze , Ying Shuo , Zhao Xiaoyun , Li Guanhua , Pan Jianhui , He Xiaomin , Xia Han , Li Yuechuan , Lou Zheng , Zhang Li
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Lung cancer is the most prevalent cancer with high mortality in China, and it is associated with the dysbiosis of the lung microbiome. This study attempted to screen for specific microorganisms as potential biomarkers for distinguishing benign lung disease from lung cancer.

Methods

Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) sample was selected in the study instead of saliva to avoid contamination with oral microorganisms, and microbial taxonomic and functional differences in BALF samples from patients with lung cancer and those with those from patients with benign lung diseases were performed based on metagenomic next‐generation sequencing, for the first time, so that microorganisms other than bacteria could be included.

Results

The results showed that the intrasample diversity of malignant samples was different from benign samples, and the microbial differences among malignant samples were smaller, with lower microbial diversity, significantly changed microbial abundance and metabolic functions. Metabolic function analysis revealed amino acid‐related metabolism was more prevalent in benign samples, whereas carbohydrate‐related metabolism was more prevalent in malignant samples. By LEfSe, Metastat and Random Forest analysis, we identified a series of important differential microorganisms. Importantly, the model combining five key genera plus one tumor marker (neuron‐specific enolase) as indicators presented the optimal disease typing performance.

Conclusion

Thus results suggest the value of these differential microorganisms enriched in tumors in mechanism research and may be potential new targets for lung cancer therapy. More importantly, the biomarkers identified in this study can be conducive to improve the clinical diagnosis of lung cancer and have good application prospects.
DKK1 promotes NUAK1 transcriptional expression through the activation Akt in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yao Chao‐Yan , Gao Zi‐Xuan , Hou Li‐Li , Fang Dong
Published: December 2022

NUAK1 is a serine/threonine kinase that has been shown to be associated with poor prognosis in several cancers. Although NUAK1 is frequently overexpressed at the transcript level in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the actual role of NUAK1 and the mechanism of its overexpression in HCC has yet to be reported. In the present study, we found that NUAK1 expression was significantly increased in human HCC tumor tissues. Overexpression of NUAK1 dramatically enhanced HCC cells proliferation and migration in vitro. Stable induction of NUAK1 expression promoted tumor growth and tumor metastases to the lungs in the subcutaneous xenograft models and intravenous metastasis models. At the cellular level, enforced expression of Dickkopf‐1 (DKK1) activated the Akt signaling pathway, thereby promoting the mRNA and protein expression of NUAK1 in HCC cells. By contrast, depletion of DKK1 was found to attenuate the mRNA and protein expression of NUAK1. In the subcutaneous xenograft models, stable induction of DKK1 expression not only accelerated tumor growth but also increased p‐Akt and NUAK1 expression; whereas knockdown of DKK1 inhibited tumor growth, p‐Akt and NUAK1 expression. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis of 20 HCC clinical samples showed that the expression level of NUAK1 was positively correlated with DKK1 and p‐Akt. Taken together, we provide the first evidence that DKK1 promotes NUAK1 transcriptional expression via the activation Akt in HCC.
Comparison between the diagnostic performance of vessel fractional flow reserve and nonhyperemic pressure ratio for functionally significant coronary stenosis severity as assessed by fractional flow reserve
Authors: Ikeda Kazumasa , Kobayashi Masatake , Chikamori Taishiro , Yanaka Yohei , Takagi Ryu , Kani Junya , Oshima Outaro , Yamada Satoshi , Hokama Yohei , Tanaka Nobuhiro
Published: December 2022

Background

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) and nonhyperemic pressure ratios (NHPRs) have been widely used to assess the functional severity of coronary stenosis. However, their measurement requires using a pressure wire, making their use in all patients difficult. The recently developed vessel fractional flow reserve (vFFR), derived from three‐dimensional quantitative coronary angiography, is expected to serve as a surrogate for pressure wire assessment.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted on patients with intermediate coronary stenosis who underwent FFR and NHPR measurements. The vFFR and NHPR values were compared for diagnosing coronary stenosis as defined by an FFR of ≤0.80, and the number of patients not requiring wire‐based assessment was estimated.

Results

In a total of 90 lesions from 74 patients (median [SD] age 75 [12] years; men 80%), the median FFR was 0.78 (0.72–0.84), and 57% of these lesions (N = 51) exhibited an FFR of ≤0.80. vFFR provided high discrimination for coronary stenosis (area under the curve 0.80, 95% confidence interval 0.70–0.90), which was comparable to that of NHPRs (p = 0.42). High diagnostic accuracy was consistently observed across a variety of clinical presentations (i.e., old age, diabetes, target coronary artery, and left ventricular hypertrophy) (pinteraction > 0.05). In total, 55 lesions (61%) demonstrated positive or negative likelihood of coronary stenosis when vFFR was <0.73 (specificity 90%) or >0.87 (sensitivity 88%), respectively.

Conclusion

vFFR demonstrated excellent diagnostic performance for detecting functionally significant coronary stenosis as evaluated by FFR. vFFR may be used as a surrogate for pressure wire assessment.
CASQ1‐related myopathy: The first report from China and the literature review
Authors: Zhang Kai‐Yue , Zhang Geng‐Jian , Duan Hui‐Qian , Li Qiu‐Xiang , Huang Kun , Xu Li‐Qun , Yang Huan , Luo Yue‐Bei
Published: December 2022

Calsequestrin 1 (CASQ1) is the most crucial Ca2+ binding protein localized in the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of skeletal muscle. With high capacity and low affinity for Ca2+, CASQ1 plays a significant role in maintaining a large amount of Ca2+ necessary for muscle contraction. However, only five mutations in CASQ1 have been identified to date. Here, we report a 42‐year‐old Chinese female patient who presented with a 12 years history of slowly progressive upper limb weakness, predominantly affecting distal muscles, which was uncommon comparing to other CASQ1‐related patients. Next‐generation sequencing (NGS) analysis revealed a novel heterozygous mutation (c.766G > A, p.Val256Met) in CASQ1. Functional studies confirmed the likely pathogenicity of this variant. Muscle histopathology revealed rare optically empty vacuoles in myofibers and atypical eosinophilic granules in the cytoplasm, which has not been observed before. We also performed a literature review on all the pathogenic mutations in CASQ1 and summarized their genetic and clinical characteristics. This is the first report on CASQ1‐related myopathy from China, further expanding the mutation spectrum of CASQ1 gene and provides new insights into the function of CASQ1.
Control in Advanced Biofuels Synthesis via Alcohol Upgrading: Catalyst Selectivity to n‐Butanol, sec‐Butanol or Isobutanol
Authors: Wingad Richard L. , Birch Laurence , Farndon Joshua , Lee Jason , Pellow Katy J. , Wass Duncan F.
Published: December 2022

Ruthenium complexes with tetradentate PNNP donor ligands demonstrate a marked change in selectivity compared to analogous bis bidentate PN complexes in Guerbet catalysis, producing mixtures of n‐butanol (17 %), sec‐butanol (14 %) and ethyl acetate (66 %) rather than the usual 90 %+ selectivity to n‐butanol. Tridentate PNP ruthenium complexes such as [Ru(H)(Cl)(CO)(Ph2PCH2CH2NHCH2CH2PPh2)] also produce sec‐butanol and, in optimized conditions (120 °C, 10 mol% NaOEt base), achieve 71 % selectivity to this butanol isomer. The same tri‐ and tetradentate complexes are efficient catalysts for the conversion of methanol/ethanol mixtures to isobutanol (up to 97 % selectivity). In this way, judicious choice of ligand within this general catalyst family allows selectivity to three butanol isomers of interest as fuel molecules.
Ionic Liquid‐Assisted Electrocatalytic NO Reduction to NH3 by P‐Doped MoS2
Authors: Wei Tianran , Bao Haihong , Wang Xinzhong , Zhang Shusheng , Liu Qian , Luo Jun , Liu Xijun
Published: December 2022

Ambient NH3 electrosynthesis from NO reduction reaction (NORR) is attractive in replacing the industrial Haber‐Bosch route; however, the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in aqueous electrolyte typically induces a limited selectivity and activity toward NH3 production. Herein, hierarchical P‐doped MoS2 nanospheres are developed as the NORR electrocatalyst in an ionic liquid (IL) electrolyte for catalyzing the reduction of NO to NH3 with a maximal Faradaic efficiency of 69 % (−0.6 V vs RHE) and a peak yield rate of 388.3 μg h−1 mgcat.−1 (−0.7 V vs RHE), both of which are comparable to the best‐reported results. Moreover, the catalyst also shows stable NORR activity over 30 h and 6 cycles. Theoretical analyses further reveal that the P dopants in MoS2 facilitate the activation and hydrogenation of NO. Besides, the employment of hydrophobic IL electrolyte also slows down the HER kinetics effectively.
Green Synthesis of Hierarchically Porous Alginate/ZIF‐8 Composite Beads for Water Treatment
Authors: Chen Yingjie , Fan Hao , Cai Gao , Zhu Zhenkun , Shen Tianyu , Zhao Huaixia , He Yiyan , Wang Yangxin
Published: December 2022

The immobilization of powdery metal‐organic‐frameworks (MOFs) into porous matrix has risen to be a promising approach for their practical applications. This work presents the green synthesis of porous alginate/ZIF‐8 composite beads through the in situ growth of ZIF‐8 in alginate hydrogel beads crosslinked by Zn2+ and subsequent freeze‐drying process, during which only water is used as reaction solvent. The macro‐ and meso‐pores in alginate matrix and micro‐pores in immobilized ZIF‐8 endow the porous composite beads with hierarchically porous structure, which benefits their adsorption properties. Methylene blue (MB) is selected as probe molecule to assess the adsorption performance of the porous composite beads toward water contaminants. It is found that the growth time of ZIF‐8 has a significant influence on the adsorption performance, and the calculated maximum adsorption capacity of ZIF‐8@Alg30 for MB reaches 628.93 mg g−1 at 298 K. Additionally, the adsorption process fits well with the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model, and the adsorption process is found to be spontaneous, endothermic and irreversible based on thermodynamic studies.
Construction of an Ultra‐High‐Energy Density Hybrid Supercapacitor with Self‐Assembled 3D Hydrangea Flower‐like Mo‐rich CoMoO4 Microstructures
Authors: Rajasekhara Reddy Gutturu , Dhananjaya Merum , Raghupathy Dillip Gowra , Lingareddy Manjunath Gonchigar , Woo Joo Sang
Published: December 2022

The accumulation of two‐dimensional nanoflake‐like units into three‐dimensional (3D) hierarchical mesoporous flower‐like microstructures can introduce abundant electroactive surface sites and large contact areas with the electrolyte and enable fast ion/electron transport during the electrochemical process. We propose a simple method of constructing a 3D hydrangea flower‐like mesoporous Mo‐rich CoMoO4 (CMO) electrode via the solvothermal route (CMO‐ETH) with excellent electrochemical characteristics. This morphology arises from the self‐assembly of primary nanoparticles into flake‐like units, then transformed into hydrangea flower‐like microstructures. Compared with the CMO‐DIW battery‐type electrode (hydrothermally synthesized electrode), the CMO‐ETH had a higher specific capacity of 678 C g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1. The fabricated CMO‐ETH//activated carbon hybrid supercapacitor (HSC) exhibited an ultra‐high energy density of 103.4 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 750.5 W kg−1. We also successfully turned on the red and green LEDs for 3 minutes after connecting two HSCs in series.
Shedding Light on the Vibrational Signatures in Halogen‐Bonded Graphitic Carbon Nitride Building Blocks
Authors: Ellington Thomas L. , Devore Daniel P. , Uvin G. De Alwis W. M. , French Kirk A. , Shuford Kevin L.
Published: December 2022

The relative contributions of halogen and hydrogen bonding to the interaction between graphitic carbon nitride monomers and halogen bond (XB) donors containing C−X and C≡C bonds were evaluated using computational vibrational spectroscopy. Conventional probes into select vibrational stretching frequencies can often lead to disconnected results. To elucidate this behavior, local mode analyses were performed on the XB donors and complexes identified previously at the M06‐2X/aVDZ‐PP level of theory. Due to coupling between low and high energy C−X vibrations, the C≡C stretch is deemed a better candidate when analyzing XB complex properties or detecting XB formation. The local force constants support this conclusion, as the C≡C values correlate much better with the σ‐hole magnitude than their C−X counterparts. The intermolecular local stretching force constants were also assessed, and it was found that attractive forces other than halogen bonding play a supporting role in complex formation.
Photoredox Catalytic Activation of Trichlorofluoromethane and Addition to Styrenes
Authors: Steuernagel Desirée , Rombach David , Sack Daniel , Koos Martin , Luy Burkhard , Wagenknecht Hans‐Achim
Published: December 2022

Abstract: A new method activates CCl3F by means of photoredox catalysis and functionalizes alkenes by the CCl2F group. N‐phenylphenothiazine is used as strongly reducing organophotocatalyst. The photoredox catalytic approach combines the productive disposal of this ozone depleting material and greenhouse gas with the synthesis of potentially useful organic compounds, complements the concept of atom transfer radical addition, and allows for the first time direct synthetic access to the CCl2F group as structural motif. The substrate scope is broad and the multifunctionalized class of products allows for a variety of following‐up transformations.
2D and 3D Nanomaterials for Photoelectrocatalytic Removal of Organic Pollutants from Water
Authors: Cui Mengmeng , Li Qianxi , Bao Ruiyu , Xia Jianxin , Li Hua
Published: December 2022

The presence of organics in water poses a serious risk to the environment, as well as to human health. It is important to develop effective water treatment techniques that are affordable, durable, and sustainable. The removal and degradation of organic matter in water is widely explored using 2D and 3D nanomaterials, which are advantageous in providing high surface to volume ratios and favorably photoelectro activity as compared to traditional materials. The robustness of nano semiconductors has made it highly sustainable in water treatment. This review concentrates on nanostructured materials, which are demonstrating the removal of pollutants from water using various 2D and 3D nanostructured materials as photoelectrocatalytic electrodes. The 2D and 3D nanostructured materials are divided into five types according to physical morphology: nanofilms/nanosheets, nanopore structure/nanonetwork, nanoflowers, nanotubes, and other forms. Apart from this, the preparation method, characterization technology, and photoelectrocatalytic efficiency of organic pollutants degradation are reviewed. Finally, the different factors influencing degradation of organic pollutants are discussed.
Unravelling the extent of tree planting by corporations
Authors: Mansourian Stephanie , Vallauri Daniel
Published: December 2022

A growing number of businesses advertise their tree planting engagements even though it is generally outside their core business. Why do they do it? Where do they do it? With whom do they do it? How pervasive is this phenomenon? These are questions we sought to answer for three European countries: France, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. We selected all large corporations from those countries present on the Fortune 500 list of companies and analysed their reports and available documentation to see firstly whether they were engaged in tree planting and if yes, to answer the above questions. Our findings indicate that in the last 22 years, 98% of the large corporations from the three countries reviewed have carried out some tree planting activities, contributing to planting well over 500 million trees.
Potential, concepts, and key advances for a ubiquitous adaptive indigenous microengineering and nanoengineering in 6G network
Authors: John Akinribide Adebisi , Thakur Prabhat , Singh Ghanshyam
Published: December 2022

The wireless communication is an integral part of the human life, which has been evolved from first generation (1G) to fifth generation (5G) where prime emphasis is on the enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra‐reliable low latency communication (urLLC), and massive machine type communication (mMTC). Further, we are working towards the sixth generation (6G) network where microtechnology and nanotechnology will play a key role to provide worldwide coverage, increased spectral/energy/cost efficiency, and improved intelligence and protection. This paper emphasizes on the prime enabling technologies that are enabled by the microengineering and nanoengineering in 6G framework to meet these needs. Started with the detailed study and analysis of 6G networks such as evolution from 1G to 6G and prime difference between 5G and 6G. Further, the potential 6G dimensions, architecture of microtechnology and nanotechnology designs, and key techniques required in 6G networks are explored in detail. Moreover, the role of cognitive technologies for development of micro‐ and nano‐perspective in 6G networks is presented. Furthermore, after discussing about the application areas, finally, the prime research challenges and potential future research directions are illustrated.
Ressourcenminimierung im urbanen Kontext
Authors: Weidner Stefanie , Bechmann Roland , Sobek Werner
Published: December 2022

Innerhalb der Systemgrenze Erde sind die vom Menschen nutzbaren Ressourcen faktisch begrenzt. Dennoch steigt der Verbrauch natürlicher Ressourcen durch ein anhaltendes Wachstum der Weltbevölkerung und einen Anstieg des Wohlstands in vielen Regionen jährlich weiter an. Die gebaute Umwelt (v. a. in Form von Städten und urbanen Strukturen) gehört zu den Haupttreibern des Ressourcenverbrauchs. In der hier vorgestellten Studie wird in einer phänomenologischen Untersuchung die Auswirkung bestimmter Parameter auf den Ressourcenverbrauch von typischen Wohnbauten analysiert. Darin werden das klassische Einfamilienhaus, vier‐ und sechsgeschossige Mehrfamilienhäuser und 20‐ bzw. 40‐geschossige Wohnhochhäuser quantifiziert und in drei unterschiedlichen urbanen Dichten in einem städtischen Kontext betrachtet. Darauf aufbauend zeigt eine Fallstudie Optimierungspotenzial für Hochhäuser auf, die sich unter bestimmten Umständen als eine nachhaltige Gebäudetypologie erweisen können.
Examination of eating disorder psychopathology across sexual and gender identities among a Canadian sample
Authors: Hallward Laura , Nagata Jason M. , Rodgers Rachel F. , Ganson Kyle T.
Published: December 2022

Objective

Eating disorders (EDs) disproportionately affect sexual and gender minorities, with majority of research conducted among samples in the United States. The purpose of this study was to examine ED psychopathology among adolescents and young adults in Canada with diverse gender and sexual identities.

Method

Data were collected from 2,714 Canadians, aged 16–30 years old, via an online survey at the end of 2021 during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Participants responded to sociodemographic questions (including history of EDs) and reported on eating attitudes and behaviors. Descriptive statistics and multiple modified Poisson and linear regressions were conducted.

Results

Over half the sample was heterosexual, 35% were sexual minority cisgender men and women, and 6.5% were transgender and gender non‐conforming (TGNC) people. The sample overall reported elevated ED psychopathology based on their eating attitudes and behaviors. TGNC participants reported the most severe ED psychopathology. Generally, sexual minority cisgender women and cisgender men had elevated ED psychopathology compared to their heterosexual counterparts. Regression analyses revealed all gender and sexual minorities reported greater ED psychopathology compared to heterosexual cisgender men.

Discussion

The Canadian sample reported elevated ED psychopathology compared to previous studies among various populations. Additional investigations are now needed to observe how ED psychopathology continues to change after the onset of the pandemic. Further research is needed among cisgender men, TGNC people, and sexual minorities to understand the unique stressors they face that lead to high ED psychopathology, and develop appropriate prevention and treatment tools.

Public significance

EDs affect people of all gender and sexual identities. People who identify as a gender and/or sexual minority often experience problematic eating attitudes and behaviors, particularly transgender and gender non‐conforming people of all sexual identities. More research attention is needed among these populations, especially due to a paucity of research among Canadians, to develop effective diagnostic tools, prevention efforts, and treatment programs specific to gender and sexual identities.
Wildlife in climate refugia: Mammalian diversity, occupancy, and tiger distribution in the Western Himalayas, Nepal
Authors: Thapa Kanchan , Subba Samundra Ambuhang , Thapa Gokarna Jung , Dewan Karun , Acharya Bishnu Prasad , Bohara Dabal , Subedi Suman , Karki Madhuri Thapa , Gotame Bharat , Paudel Gautam , Bhatta Shiv Raj , Jnawali Shant Raj , Malla Sabita
Published: December 2022

Anthropogenic land‐use change continues to be predicated as a major driver of terrestrial biodiversity loss for the rest of this century. It has been determined that the effect of climate change on wildlife population will accelerate the rate and process of decline of global vertebrate populations. We investigated wildlife composition, occupancy, and activity pattern along the larger climate resilient forests that serve as microrefugia for a wide range of species under the escalating climate change. We used camera trap survey covering 250 km2 of climate microrefugia in Dadeldhura hills in far western region of Nepal. We used 62 trapping locations accumulating 1800 trap nights taking 98,916 photographs in 62 days‐survey period during the summer season of 2020. We photographed 23 mammalian species with estimated species richness of 30 species (95% CI: 25–34) based on multi‐species occupancy model. We estimated overall species occupancy ψ(SE(ψ)) to be 0.87 (0.09) in climatic microrefugia. While human activity predominated throughout the day, the majority of animals was found to exhibit nocturnal temporal patterns. Tiger and hyaena, two of the top predators, were newly discovered in the western Himalayan range of Nepal, with their discovery at the 34 highest elevations of 2511 meters and 2000m, respectively. In Nepal, high‐altitude tiger range is characterized by tiger distribution above a 2000 m cutoff representing habitats in the physiographic zone of high mountains and above. Our findings establish a baseline and show that the climatic microrefugia that have been identified have high levels of species richness and occupancy, which characterize the Dadeldhura hill forest ranges as biologically varied and ecologically significant habitat. These areas identified as climatic microrefugia habitats should be the focus of conservation efforts, particularly efforts to reduce human disturbance and adapt to climate change.
Winter gifts for river ecosystems: A massive supply of earthworms in early winter
Authors: Futamura Ryo , Furusawa Chiharu , Okamiya Hisanori
Published: December 2022

Terrestrial resource pulses can significantly affect the community dynamics of freshwater ecosystems. Previously, its effect on the river community is considered to be stronger in summer, whereas weaker in winter when terrestrial invertebrates are less abundant. The movement of the terrestrial earthworms is triggered in winter, so they may be supplied to winter rivers as terrestrial resource pulse, but little is known about it. Here, we report that the massive numbers of the terrestrial earthworms were supplied intensively to an upstream of the small river in early winter. In particular, we found large numbers of megascolecid earthworms were supplied in an upstream of the small river in Northern Japan. Furthermore, we observed that supplied earthworms were consumed by salmonid fish species (masu salmon, white spotted char and rainbow trout) and aquatic invertebrates (gammarid amphipod, planarian flatworm, and stonefly larvae). These findings suggest that the terrestrial earthworms may play a key role in ecosystem functioning in winter when severe and other resources are scarce.
A sustainable network design of a hybrid biomass supply chain by considering the water–energy–carbon nexus
Authors: Rasekh Abolfazl , Hamidzadeh Farhad , Sahebi Hadi , Pishvaee Mir Saman
Published: December 2022

Nowadays, with population growth, rising global energy demand, increasing water consumption, carbon emissions, and excessive use of fossil fuels, the world faces a major challenge. Biomass is one of the most attractive sources of energy production, with positive effects on the economy, environment, and society, which can decrease the world's reliance on fossil fuels and deal with this universal challenge. Consequently, the biomass supply chain network design has received more attention in recent decades. Since energy and water are two significant sources for society's sustainable development and carbon emissions are essential for environmental health, the study of the water–energy–carbon (WEC) nexus is essential. In this study, a multiobjective multiperiod model for designing a sustainable supply chain network based on hybrid second‐generation (i.e., Jatropha, agricultural waste, and animal waste) and third‐generation (i.e., microalgae) biomasses is presented. The proposed multiobjective model consists of five objective functions that maximize the total energy produced and the number of jobs created and minimize the total water consumed, carbon emitted, and total costs. Case study results demonstrate the performance of the model utilizing the MINMAX goal programming approach. Based on the results, energy production from Jatropha is more appropriate in comparison with energy production from microalgae, agriculture waste, and animal waste. The findings also show that the proposed model in this research considering the WEC nexus performs significantly better than the classical model without considering the WEC nexus.
Medicaid Expansion and mental health treatment: Evidence from the Affordable Care Act
Authors: Ortega Alberto
Published: December 2022

This study uses a difference‐in‐differences design within an event‐study framework to examine how state decisions to expand Medicaid following the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) affected mental health treatment. The findings suggest that expansion states experienced increased admissions to mental health treatment facilities and Medicaid‐reimbursed prescriptions for medications used to treat common forms of mental illness. The results also indicate an increase in admissions with trauma, anxiety, conduct, and depression disorders. There is also suggestive evidence of an increase in the number of mental health treatment facilities accepting Medicaid as a form of payment. Lastly, as with previous studies, I find weak evidence of a decrease in suicides in Medicaid expansion states. These findings highlight the vital role of the ACA in providing access to mental health treatment for low‐income Americans.
Indolyl Phosphine Nickel(II) Fluorido Complexes: Synthesis and Intermediates in Suzuki–Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: He Ouchan , Cula Beatrice , Braun Thomas
Published: December 2022

The C−F bond activation of pentafluoropyridine and 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoropyridine at [Ni(cod)2] (cod=1,5‐cyclooctadiene) in the presence of the phosphine PPh2(Ind) (Ind=3‐methyl‐2‐indolyl) led to the formation of the nickel(II) fluorido bis(phosphine) complexes trans‐[Ni(F)(2‐C5NF4){PPh2(Ind)}2] and trans‐[Ni(F)(2‐C5HNF3){PPh2(Ind)}2]. The complexes are characterized by the presence of intramolecular hydrogen bonds between the NH group of the phosphine ligands and the fluorido ligand. Stochiometric model reactions of nickel(II) fluorido complexes with PhB(OH)2 revealed that the former can be considered as intermediates in Suzuki–Miyaura cross coupling reactions. Catalytic experiments were attempted using 10 mol‐% of trans‐[Ni(F)(2‐C5NF4){PPh2(Ind)}2] as catalyst and the activities of the PPh2(Ind) complex were compared to the ones of an analogous nickel(II) fluorido complex, bearing PPh3 instead of PPh2(Ind) as ligands. The latter exhibited a somewhat lower catalytic activity suggesting a slight influence of the H‐bonds in the outer coordination sphere.
Disease patterns and clinical outcomes of medical admissions at a tertiary hospital in Northern Tanzania: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Sadiq Abid M. , Njau Rosalia E. , Kilonzo Kajiru G.
Published: December 2022

Background and Aims

The burden of noncommunicable diseases is increasing in developing countries and in settings with an existing communicable burden. The study aim was to identify the disease pattern, length of stay, and clinical outcome of medical admissions.

Methods

A retrospective observational study of patients admitted to medical wards between 1st July 2019 and 30th June 2020, excluding those admitted for chemotherapy. The outcome measures were the pattern of disease, length of stay, and clinical outcome.

Results

A total of 3930 patients were analyzed. A total of 53.5% were males, and 42.9% were aged 51–75 years, with a median age of 57 years (IQR 41–71). A total of 41.3% had health insurance, 21.7% died, and the median length of stay was 6 days (IQR 4–9). Cardiovascular diseases were the most common diagnosis (26.8%) on admission and cause of death (27.9%). The common causes of death were stroke (15.1%), chronic kidney disease (11.1%), and heart failure (9.0%). Noninsured patients had a high mortality risk (odds ratios [OR] 1.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.42–1.96), which was also seen among patients aged more than 75 years (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.08–1.57), patients with communicable diseases (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.23–1.68), and weekend admissions (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.08–1.55). The 72‐h admission window is critical due to a very high mortality risk (OR 3.03, 95% CI 2.58–3.56).

Conclusion

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of hospital admissions and deaths in a tertiary hospital in Northern Tanzania. Lifestyle modification, health education, and community resources are needed to combat the growing burden of cardiovascular and renal disease.
Epidemiology and predictors of multimorbidity in Kharameh cohort study: A population‐based cross‐sectional study in southern Iran
Authors: Moftakhar Leila , Rezaeianzadeh Ramin , Ghoddusi Johari Masoumeh , Hosseini Seyed Vahid , Rezaianzadeh Abbas
Published: December 2022

Background and Aim

Multimorbidity is one of the problems and concerns of public health. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and identify the risk factors associated with multimorbidity based on the data of the Kherameh cohort study.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was performed on 10,663 individuals aged 40–70 years in the south of Iran in 2015 to 2017. Demographic and behavioral characteristics were investigated. Multimorbidity was defined as the coexistence of two or more of two chronic diseases in a person. In this study, the prevalence of multimorbidity was calculated. Logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of multimorbidity.

Results

The prevalence of multimorbidity was 24.4%. The age‐standardized prevalence rate was 18.01% in males and 29.6% in females. The most common underlying diseases were gastroesophageal reflux disease with hypertension (33.5%). Multiple logistic regression results showed that the age of 45–55 years (adjusted odds ratio [ORadj]] = 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07–1.38), age of over 55 years (ORadj = 1.21, 95% CI, 1.06–1.37), obesity (ORadj = 3.65, 95% CI, 2.55–5.24), and overweight (ORadj = 2.92, 95% CI, 2.05–4.14) were the risk factors of multimorbidity. Also, subjects with high socioeconomic status (ORadj = 1.27, 95% CI, 1.1–1.45) and very high level of socioeconomic status (ORadj = 1.53, 95% CI, 1.31–1.79) had a higher chance of having multimorbidity. The high level of education, alcohol consumption, having job, and high physical activity had a protective role against it.

Conclusion

The prevalence of multimorbidity was relatively high in the study area. According to the results of our study, age, obesity, and overweight had an important effect on multimorbidity. Therefore, determining interventional strategies for weight loss and control and treatment of chronic diseases, especially in the elderly, is very useful.
The rate of cesarean delivery changes after internal audit based on the Robson Ten Group Classification System in Lebanon
Authors: Abdallah Wael , Abi Tayeh Georges , Kesrouani Assaad , Nassar Malek , Finan Ramzi , Mansour Fersan , Attieh Elie , Suidan Joe , Bou Saba Camille , El Kassis Nadine , Yaghi Nancy , Aouad Norma , Atallah David
Published: December 2022

Objective

To evaluate the efficiency of the Robson classification as an internal clinical audit and feedback of the high rate of cesarean delivery at Hotel Dieu de France, a tertiary referral hospital.

Methods

A pre‐post study was conducted, with a retrospective approach in 2018 and 2019, identified as the pre‐period (before the implementation of the Robson classification), and with a prospective approach in 2020 and 2021, labeled the post‐period.

Results

The total number of deliveries during the study period was 2560; 1305 patients were included in the pre‐period and 1255 patients delivered in the post‐period. No significant differences between the two groups were found. No significant difference was found in the overall rate of cesarean delivery between the first and second periods (57.86% vs 56.72%; P = 0.2). However, a significant decrease in the absolute contribution of groups 3 and 4 (multiparous women without a previous uterine scar with a single cephalic pregnancy, ≥37 weeks of gestation, with spontaneous labor or induced labor) in the overall rate of cesarean delivery was remarked (P = 0.02 and 0.01, respectively).

Conclusion

The Robson classification seems to be appropriate to monitor and audit the rate of cesarean delivery, but not sufficient to decrease the rate and change the practice.
Triboelectric nanogenerators for smart agriculture
Authors: Dai Shufen , Li Xunjia , Jiang Chengmei , Ping Jianfeng , Ying Yibin
Published: December 2022

Rapid iterations of sensing, energy, and communication technologies transform traditional agriculture into standardized, intensive, and smart modern agriculture. However, the energy supply challenge for the plentiful sensors or other microdevices constraints the extensive application of intelligent technologies in agriculture. Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), which efficiently converts mechanical energy into electrical energy through contact electrification and electrostatic induction, is considered a promising way to build next‐generation intelligent energy supply networks. By efficiently harvesting low‐frequency mechanical energy from the agricultural environment, including wind, rain, and water flow energy, TENGs can be a strong contender for distributed power for microdevice networks in smart agriculture. In addition, highly customizable TENGs can be combined with microdevices in agriculture to enable self‐powered agricultural monitoring and production strategy adjustment. By deeply exploring the application potential of TENG in agriculture, it is conducive to further promoting unmanned production, refinement, and intelligence of agricultural production and enhancing agriculture's ability to combat natural risks.

image
Biodistribution and toxicology evaluation of a recombinant measles Schwarz‐based Lassa vaccine in cynomolgus macaques
Authors: Schrauf Sabrina , Tomberger Yvonne , Nambulli Sham , Duprex W. Paul , Tschismarov Roland , Tauber Erich , Ramsauer Katrin
Published: December 2022

MV‐LASV is an investigational measles Schwarz‐based vaccine for the prevention of Lassa fever. A repeated‐dose toxicity study in cynomolgus macaques was performed to assess the biodistribution and local and systemic toxicological effects. Monkeys received three immunizations of MV‐LASV or saline intramuscularly with a 2‐week interval. An increase in anti‐measles antibodies confirmed the reaction of the immune system to the vaccine backbone. Clinical observations, body weight, body temperature, local tolerance, electrocardiogram parameters, various clinical pathology parameters (hematology, coagulation urinalysis, serum chemistry, and C‐reactive protein) were monitored. Gross pathology and histopathology of various tissues were evaluated. MV‐LASV induced a mild increase in fibrinogen and C‐reactive protein concentrations. This coincided with microscopic inflammation at the injection sites which partially or fully resolved following a 3‐week recovery period. Viral RNA was found in secondary lymphoid organs and injection sites and gall bladder. No viral shedding to the environment was observed. Overall, the vaccine was locally and systemically well tolerated, supporting a first‐in‐human study.