bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Productivity and Economics of Ber Based Agri-Horticultural Systems under Semi-Arid Condition of Akola in Vidarbha, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Ganvir M. M. , Chorey Anita , Patode R. S. , Tupe A. R. , Turkhede A. B. , Gabhane V. V. , Apotikar Varsha , Pandagale V. P. , Mali R.S. , Morey S. T. , Fukat P. H.
Published: December 2024

Alternate land use system is applicable in areas where subsistence farming is practiced in unstable ecosystems, and it poses more potentiality and flexibility in land use than the traditional crop production systems. Alternate land use systems are effective means of stabilizing both productivity of dryland crops and incomes of dryland farmers, besides generating more counter potential. Ber is highly resistant to drought conditions due to well-developed long tap root system than other crops. There is area to grow field crops in between the interspaces during the early growth stages of Ber in order to increase the land use efficiency. The experiment with objectives for studying the productivity and the economics of Ber based Agro-Horticulture system under dryland condition was conducted at the research farm of the AICRP for Dryland Agriculture, Dr. PDKV, Akola. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design with four treatments and five replications. The six years pooled data resulted that the treatment cotton + soybean (1:1) recorded significantly highest Ber equivalent yield (970 kg ha-1), gross monetary returns (Rs. 69643), net monetary returns (Rs.22106) and rainwater use efficiency (1.17 kg ha-1 mm-1) as compare to rest of the treatments.
Renewable Energy from Agricultural Waste: Biogas Potential for Sustainable Energy Generation in Nigeria’s Rural Agricultural Communities
Authors: Godfrey Okeke Ugochukwu
Published: December 2024

The use of fossil fuels dominates energy generation globally. As the world shifts towards developing sustainable processes and a circular economy, seeking renewable energy alternatives is crucial. Nigeria's agricultural sector produces large amounts of biodegradable waste daily with up to 227500 tonnes of animal manure produced per day and up to 84Mt of useful crop residues produced per year. This offers huge potential for bioenergy generation in agricultural communities, especially at the rural level. Biogas plants employ anaerobic digestion, which enables microorganisms to break down large organic molecules into biogas. This review examines the potential of biogas production in Nigeria. The technology of biogas production was explained and the trending issue of sustainable digestate management was also reviewed. A literature survey revealed that Nigeria has the potential of producing up to 6.8 million m3/day of biogas from animal waste, and 15.014 billion m3/year of biogas from crop residues. It also identified that while much research has been conducted on biogas production in Nigeria over the past two decades, much progress has not been made in implementing it on a large scale due to financial barriers, lack of awareness, policy support, technical expertise, etc. The absence of effective policies and regulatory frameworks were identified as the major challenge to biogas production in Nigeria. Nevertheless, the progress made in the small-scale implementation of biogas plants shows their potential for use in rural agriculture. Solutions to the barriers were also assessed which, if implemented, will aid rural farmers in affording an environment-friendly, off-grid energy supply for production.
Selected Factors that Influence Nonadherence to Antituberculosis Drug Regimen among Tuberculosis Patients at Two (2) Rural Clinics in Guyana, South America
Authors: Gharbaran Bhuwandai , Daly Falana , Ferreira Viannie , Edmondson-Carter Jewel , Boston Cecil , Hutson Andrew
Published: December 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to identify and compare the factors influencing non-adherence to antituberculosis drug regimens at two rural clinics in Guyana.
Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional design was employed to examine adherence barriers among tuberculosis (TB) patients at two rural clinics in Guyana. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to 46 non-adherent TB patients (15 from Clinic 1 and 31 from Clinic 2). Inclusion criteria and informed consent were adhered to, and a translator facilitated interviews in the Indigenous community served by Clinic 1. Descriptive and comparative statistical analyses were performed to interpret the data.
Results: A total of 46 participants were identified as non-adherent to tuberculosis (TB) treatment protocols were included in the study, with a mean age of 43.7 years for Clinic 1 and 46.3 years for Clinic 2. Among the participants, 32% originated from Clinic 1 and 68% from Clinic 2.
Statistical Analysis: Statistical analysis revealed significant factors influencing non-adherence to treatment. This included knowledge of TB transmission and the quality of patient-provider relationships (p = 0.049), frequency of chest clinic visits (p = 0.015), adherence to prescribed medication regimens (p = 0.001), depression among patients (p = 0.005), clinic attendance patterns, and instances of missed medication doses (p = 0.013). These findings underscore the multifactorial nature of non-adherence in the study population, highlighting both psychosocial and systemic influences.
Conclusion: The findings highlight the interplay of psychological distress, clinic attendance, and patient-provider relationships in influencing TB treatment adherence. Despite high knowledge levels about TB transmission, adherence was limited. Integrated strategies, including mental health interventions, improved patient-provider communication, and logistical support, are essential to enhance adherence and treatment outcomes in rural populations.
Necessity of invaginating the appendiceal stump in laparoscopic appendectomy for acute nonperforated appendicitis
Authors: Shioda Mio , Yokoyama Yasuyuki , Chihara Naoto , Mizutani Satoshi , Mishima Keisuke , Shimizu Takao , Taniai Nobuhiko , Yoshida Hiroshi
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the necessity of invaginating the appendiceal stump in laparoscopic appendectomy for patients with acute nonperforated appendicitis. Summary of Background Data: Laparoscopic appendectomy has become the preferred method over open appendectomy for acute appendicitis, offering benefits like shorter intraoperative times and reduced wound sepsis. However, the necessity of invaginating the appendiceal stump, aimed at preventing stump leakage and intrabdominal infection, remains unclear.

Methods

This retrospective observational study was conducted at Nippon Medical School Musashikosugi Hospital from 2009 to 2018 and involved patients aged ≥15 years diagnosed with acute nonperforated appendicitis who underwent emergency surgery without preoperative intra-abdominal abscess. Patients were divided into two groups: open appendectomy with stump invagination (Group O) and laparoscopic appendectomy without stump invagination (Group L). The primary outcomes were incidences of appendiceal stump leakage and postoperative intra-abdominal abscess.

Results

The study involved 119 patients in Group O and 175 in Group L. Both groups were comparable in age, sex, body mass index, blood examination results, operating time, and drain insertion rate. Group L presented more cases of gangrenous appendicitis with severe inflammation but had shorter postoperative stays compared with Group O. The incidence of postoperative intra-abdominal abscess was 2% (2 cases) in Group O and 2% (4 cases) in Group L, with no significant difference. No cases of stump leakage were observed in either group.

Conclusions

Invaginating the appendiceal stump in laparoscopic appendectomy for nonperforated appendicitis may be unnecessary, as its omission does not increase short-term postoperative complications.
Evaluation of the effect of split administration of compound polyethylene glycol electrolyte powder combined with simethicone oil in bowel preparation before colonoscopy in the elderly
Authors: Sun Yanfang , Liu Ying , Xie Yanna , Zhang Yisha , Yang Hongyan , Yang Yong , Wang Aihua
Published: December 2024

Objective:

This study is to explore the application value of fractional administration of compound polyethylene glycol electrolyte powder combined with simethicone for bowel preparation before colonoscopy in elderly patients.

Methods:

The objects are 60 elderly patients who underwent colonoscopy in our hospital in 2021.The patients were randomly divided into the control group and the observation group, 30 cases in each group. The control group took polyethylene glycol electrolyte powder for bowel preparation by several times. On this basis, the observation group was given simethicone for bowel preparation. The adverse reactions, intestinal cleanliness, air bubbles in the intestines, lens clarity, time of entering the lens, the amount of saline flushing, and lesion detection were compared between the two groups.

Results

There was no significant difference in adverse reactions, bowel cleanliness score, detection rate of ≥0.5 cm polyps and adenomas between the two groups（P>0.05）, but the air bubbles and lens clarity , the time of entering the lens, the amount of saline flushing, the detection rate of<0.5 cm polyps of the observation group was significantly better than that of the control group（P<0.05）.

Conclusion:

It is safe and effective for elderly patients to take compound polyethylene glycol electrolyte powder combined with simethicone for intestinal preparation.
Approaching Trap‐Minimized Polymer Thin‐Film Transistors
Authors: Kitahara Gyo , Ikawa Mitsuhiro , Matsuoka Satoshi , Arai Shunto , Hasegawa Tatsuo
Published: October 2021

Semiconducting π‐conjugated polymers are the most promising candidates for flexible electronics owing to their facile processability and mechanical robustness; however, achieving steep and stable switching operations in polymer thin‐film transistors (TFTs) remains a serious challenge. Herein, it is shown that whole optimizations for eliminating interfacial carrier traps throughout the conductive path are necessary in achieving TFTs showing both exceptionally sharp switching and bias‐stress‐free characteristics. Inverted‐coplanar‐type TFTs composed of a highly lyophobic amorphous perfluoropolymer gate–dielectric interfaced with a push‐coated semiconducting polymer layer are manufactured. The use of the dielectric allows the establishment of bias‐stress‐free characteristics with minimized contact resistance. Additionally, fairly sharp on/off switching TFTs with the smallest normalized subthreshold swing can be obtained by utilizing a particular donor–acceptor copolymer that involves a self‐passivation mechanism working to achieve a trap‐minimized interface. These findings have opened a way for low‐power and robust device operations in polymer‐based flexible electronics.
Green Recycling Methods to Treat Lithium‐Ion Batteries E‐Waste: A Circular Approach to Sustainability
Authors: Roy Joseph Jegan , Rarotra Saptak , Krikstolaityte Vida , Zhuoran Kenny Wu , Cindy Yang Dja‐Ia , Tan Xian Yi , Carboni Michael , Meyer Daniel , Yan Qingyu , Srinivasan Madhavi
Published: October 2021

E‐waste generated from end‐of‐life spent lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is increasing at a rapid rate owing to the increasing consumption of these batteries in portable electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy storage worldwide. On the one hand, landfilling and incinerating LIBs e‐waste poses environmental and safety concerns owing to their constituent materials. On the other hand, scarcity of metal resources used in manufacturing LIBs and potential value creation through the recovery of these metal resources from spent LIBs has triggered increased interest in recycling spent LIBs from e‐waste. State of the art recycling of spent LIBs involving pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy processes generates considerable unwanted environmental concerns. Hence, alternative innovative approaches toward the green recycling process of spent LIBs are essential to tackle large volumes of spent LIBs in an environmentally friendly way. Such evolving techniques for spent LIBs recycling based on green approaches, including bioleaching, waste for waste approach, and electrodeposition, are discussed here. Furthermore, the ways to regenerate strategic metals post leaching, efficiently reprocess extracted high‐value materials, and reuse them in applications including electrode materials for new LIBs. The concept of “circular economy” is highlighted through closed‐loop recycling of spent LIBs achieved through green‐sustainable approaches.
Soft Magnetic Composites as Quantitative 3D Compression Sensors for Wearable Technology
Authors: Miller Jonathan D. , Cabarkapa Dimitrije , Hermes Matthew J. , Fry Andrew C. , Berkland Cory J.
Published: October 2021

Detecting the magnitude of compression or shear events can provide valuable data to assess forces experienced by sensitive equipment or even the human body. Compression sensors have historically had limited use in fields such as wearable technology due to the large size of the sensors, lack of 3D sensing capacity, need for rigid components, or signal quality issues associated with the orientation or deformation of soft composites under compression. In particular, soft magnetic composites paired with a magnetometer to sense material deformation have been hindered by such issues. Here, experiments evaluated soft silicone‐magnetic powder composites of various shapes, sizes, magnetic filler concentrations, and orientations to a magnetometer to optimize sensor performance. Sensors with smaller diameter (≤2.5 mm) cylinder‐shaped magnetic elements exhibited a linear response to compression when paired with a 3 mm × 3 mm magnetometer. The soft magnetic elements composed of 80% magnetic powder by weight, the highest concentration tested, had the greatest sensitivity. Parameters from these studies are used to design a sensor integrated into a football helmet, which successfully recorded 3D force data from head impacts while being worn, demonstrating the potential for such sensors in wearable technology applications.
Soft, Thiol‐ene/Acrylate‐Based Electrode Array for Long‐Term Recording of Intracranial EEG Signals with Improved Biocompatibility in Mice
Authors: Fedor Flóra Zsófia , Madarász Miklós , Zátonyi Anita , Szabó Ágnes , Lőrincz Tibor , Danda Vindhya , Spurgin Lisa , Manz Connie , Rózsa Balázs , Fekete Zoltán
Published: October 2021

Thiol‐ene/acrylate, a softening polymer material, rapidly gained attention during the past few years as a substrate of intracortical probes, as soft polymers can mitigate foreign body response by reducing mechanical mismatch between the neural implant and the surrounding brain tissue. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of a thiol‐ene/acrylate based microECoG (micro – electrocorticography, μECoG) device with 31 sputtered iridium oxide electrodes. Long‐term electrochemical measurements provide firm evidence on the reliability of the novel layer structure and the related packaging method. In vivo impedance measurements indicated stable electrode yield (over 75%), without apparent signs of delamination or material degradation over 75 days. Awake recordings of theta oscillations with signal‐to‐noise ratio between 1.04 and 5.74 over this extended period also confirmed the applicability of the device. Chronic immune response characterized by Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein staining of astrocytes and fluorescent Nissl (NeuroTrace) staining of neurons revealed only modest foreign body reaction after 80 days of implantation. The study presents novel data that confirms the feasibility of softening polymer‐based μECoG devices as chronically implantable neural interfaces.
Fabrication of ω‐Transaminase@Metal‐Organic Framework Biocomposites for Efficiently Synthesizing Benzylamines and Pyridylmethylamines
Authors: Yu Jinhai , Zong Weilu , Ding Yingying , Liu Junzhong , Chen Lina , Zhang Hongjuan , Jiao Qingcai
Published: October 2021

In this study, ten ω‐transaminases (ω‐TAs) have been investigated to efficiently catalyze the synthesis of twenty‐four functionalized benzylamines and pyridylmethylamines. We optimized the reactions, screened suitable amino donors and compared ω‐transaminases activities for all aromatic aldehyde substrates. Under the optimized conditions, eighteen aromatic amines have been obtained with 60.4%–96.6% conversions and isolated only via simple extraction and recrystallization with 18.5%–81% yields on a preparative scale. Furthermore, we first immobilized the Bm‐STA onto the MOFs via the physical adsorption to overcome the limitation of free enzyme and improve their industrial applications. The obtained Bm‐STA/UiO‐66‐NH2 composites exhibited not only high enzymes loading (80.4 mg g−1) and enzyme activity recovery (95.8%), but also the better reusability, storage stability, pH stability and the tolerance to acetone and DMF.

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Tiny Video Networks
Authors: Piergiovanni A. J. , Angelova Anelia , Ryoo Michael S.
Published: October 2021

Automatic video understanding is becoming more important for applications where real‐time performance is crucial and compute is limited: for example, automated video tagging, robot perception, activity recognition for mobile devices. Yet, accurate solutions so far have been computationally intensive. We propose efficient models for videos—Tiny Video Networks—which are video architectures, automatically designed to comply with fast runtimes and, at the same time are effective at video recognition tasks. The TVNs run at faster‐than‐real‐time speeds and demonstrate strong performance across several video benchmarks. These models not only provide new tools for real‐time video applications, but also enable fast research and development in video understanding. Code and models are available.
Magic Bookmark: A Nonintrusive Electronic System for Functionalizing Physical Books
Authors: Bairaktaris Georgios , Siderov Hristo , Celebiler Deniz , Kolii Corinne , Frohlich David M. , Sporea Radu A.
Published: October 2021

The use of physical paper is often preferred due to its unique physical properties that improve various aspects of reading. However, digital media and information are more engaging, diverse, and up to date, thereby challenging the existence of paper in our everyday life. By combining the two types of media in a seamless way, the interactivity of multimedia content can complement the reading experience, maintaining the unique feel of paper books. The current state of the art addressing this application negatively impacts the reading experience and often does not consider the manufacturability and sustainability of the proposed solutions. Herein, the Magic Bookmark, a technical solution for automatically recognizing the open page of a physical book, to provide seamless augmentation without changing the user's behavior and experience significantly is introduced. Three alternative solutions are implemented, with various degrees of ease of use, manufacturability at scale, and reliability of data reading. The optimal realization is found to be a reflective optical readout array, for which routes to implementation that may allow blending the graphical and functional aspects of the augmented book are proposed.
An ongoing challenge: The impact of federal policies on organisations, communities and individuals serving people seeking asylum
Authors: Murray Kate E. , Meuter Renata F. I. , Cox Mandy , Ostapiej‐Piatkowski Beata
Published: October 2021

The world is facing unprecedented numbers of people forcibly displaced, and there is a need for an enhanced global response. In turn, there are significant implications for those seeking asylum and the service providers working with them. Using thematic analysis, the current research analyses qualitative data from 16 semi‐structured interviews with individuals providing services to people seeking asylum in Australia, exploring the relevance of policy to service providers. There were two meta‐themes identified that linked government policies to their adverse impacts (1) on asylum seekers and on staff and volunteers, and (2) on organisations and their service provision. Participants identified changing and unpredictable policies, the uncertainty over lengthy application review processes for those seeking asylum, and the limited access to resources and financial supports available as impacting service delivery and overall well‐being. The findings highlighted the negative impact of federal policies on those seeking asylum, and on service provider and organisational capacity to provide services and to fulfil their duty of care. Participants highlighted how changing policies compromise their ability to plan for current and future needs and add further strain and uncertainty to the system. The findings can inform Australian conversations on policy and practice for people seeking asylum.
Acupuncture inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the prefrontal cortex of a chronic stress rat model of depression
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , Wang Hongmei , Li Chen , Wu Jihong , Lu Jun , Guo Jian‐You , Tu Ya
Published: October 2021

The Nod‐like receptor family pyrin domain‐containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome‐driven inflammatory response plays a key role in the pathophysiology of depression. Mounting evidence suggests that acupuncture is an effective treatment for depression. In this study, we investigated the effects of acupuncture treatment at the acupoints Baihui (GV20) and Yintang (GV29) on NLRP3 inflammasome in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of an animal model of depression. Rats that underwent chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) for 6 weeks showed depressive‐like behaviors, which were confirmed by sucrose preference and locomotor activity in the open field test. The protein levels of NLRP3, apoptotic speck‐containing protein with a card (ASC), and cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase‐1 (Caspase‐1) in the PFC were detected by Western blot analysis. The mRNA and protein expressions of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and interleukin‐18 (IL‐18) in the PFC were measured by the real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. Our results showed that the depressive‐like behaviors in stressed rats were reversed by acupuncture treatment. Compared with control rats, the protein expression of NLRP3, ASC, and Caspase‐1 and the mRNA and protein expressions of IL‐1β and IL‐18 in the PFC were markedly increased in CUMS rats. Acupuncture treatment significantly decreased the levels of NLRP3 inflammasome components and inflammatory cytokines in the PFC. Acupuncture treatment also reduced the number of TUNEL‐positive cells in the PFC. These results suggested that acupuncture has antidepressant‐like effects, and its mechanism appears to be involved in the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and apoptosis in the PFC.
Does double‐blind peer review reduce bias? Evidence from a top computer science conference
Authors: Sun Mengyi , Barry Danfa Jainabou , Teplitskiy Misha
Published: October 2021

Peer review is essential for advancing scientific research, but there are long‐standing concerns that authors' prestige or other characteristics can bias reviewers. Double‐blind peer review has been proposed as a way to reduce reviewer bias, but the evidence for its effectiveness is limited and mixed. Here, we examine the effects of double‐blind peer review by analyzing the review files of 5,027 papers submitted to a top computer science conference that changed its reviewing format from single‐ to double‐blind in 2018. First, we find that the scores given to the most prestigious authors significantly decreased after switching to double‐blind review. However, because many of these papers were above the threshold for acceptance, the change did not affect paper acceptance significantly. Second, the inter‐reviewer disagreement increased significantly in the double‐blind format. Third, papers rejected in the single‐blind format are cited more than those rejected under double‐blind, suggesting that double‐blind review better excludes poorer quality papers. Lastly, an apparently unrelated change in the rating scale from 10 to 4 points likely reduced prestige bias significantly such that papers' acceptance was affected. These results support the effectiveness of double‐blind review in reducing biases, while opening new research directions on the impact of peer‐review formats.
Highly sensitive SERS detection of residual nitrofurantoin and 1‐amino‐hydantoin in aquatic products and feeds
Authors: Fan Wanli , Gao Weixing , Jiao Jian , Wang Dongmei , Fan Meikun
Published: October 2021

Nitrofurantoin (NFT), a typical highly effective nitrofuran antibiotic drug, has been prohibited but still widely found in animal food products. It can be metabolized in animals to form 1‐amino‐hydantoin (AHD) that can then form stable and toxic metabolite‐protein adducts. Hence, the detection of NFT and AHD in aquatic products and feeds is very important. However, there are limited reports concerning NFT detection and none about AHD by using surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) method. Herein, potassium bromide (KBr) decorated silver (Ag) nanoparticles (Ag‐BrNPs)‐based SERS approach was proposed for NFT and AHD detection. The limit of detection (LOD) for NFT was 1 μg/L. The detection of NFT residues in sea cucumber and fish feeds was also realized with the LOD of 1 and 50 ng/g, respectively. More importantly, the sensing of AHD was easily realized with the SERS approach for the first time. After the derivatization with 2‐nitrobenzaldehyde (2‐NBA), Ag‐BrNPs were also successfully utilized for AHD detection in sea cucumber with the LOD of 5 ng/g.
Illumination correction with optimized kernel extreme learning machine based on improved marine predators algorithm
Authors: Yang Junyi , Zheng Minhui , Chen Sheng
Published: October 2021

Aiming at the problem of poor image illumination correction accuracy, a kernel extreme learning machine optimized based on the differential evolution‐improved marine predators algorithm is proposed to estimate the scene illumination information and restore the image. First, in order to solve the problem of randomization of the initial population of the marine predators algorithm, differential evolutions is used to provide a set of suitable initial populations to the algorithm. Then, an improved algorithm is used to optimize the weight and bias of the kernel extreme learning machine to solve the problem of the randomness of the weight and bias, so that the learning machine converges to the global optimal value and avoids the unstable predictions. Finally, after obtaining the predicted illumination information, the image model is corrected to the image effect under standard illumination through diagonal transformation. It can be seen from the experimental results that the best predictive value of the differential evolution marine predator algorithm learning machine is 0.0135915, and the quasi‐bias is only 0.001687. Compared with traditional illumination estimation algorithms such as random vector functional link and extreme learning machine, the differential evolution marine predator algorithm learning machine algorithm proposed in this article has better stability, higher accuracy of calculated predicted values, and better image restoration effect.
Amorphous Porous Molybdenum Dioxide as an Efficient Supercapacitor Electrode Material
Authors: Liu Shuhua , Tian Li , Qi Xiang
Published: October 2021

Molybdenum dioxide (MoO2) with amorphous and porous nanostructure is synthesized via a facile hydrothermal methodology in a short reaction time and used as a supercapacitors electrode material. X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge–discharge measurements, and cycle stability tests of the amorphous and porous MoO2 are investigated. The novel‐innovative structure conduces to the high specific capacity of 444.7 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 in 0.5 m H2SO4 solution. After 1000 cycles, 92% capacity is retained, indicating that the as‐prepared electrodes possess excellent stabilities. Furthermore, at a high current density of 8 A g−1, the capacity can reach 210.67 F g−1, exhibiting outstanding rate characteristics. The amorphous and porous MoO2 achieves preeminent electrochemical performance, which can be attributed to the short ion diffusion routes and can provide reversible and fast faradic reactions and the porous structure will increase the utilization of the electrode materials. Besides that, the amorphous and porous MoO2 will let each MoO2 nanoparticles to participate in electrochemical reactions due to the full contact between electrolyte and MoO2. Therefore, MoO2 will be a promising anode material for aqueous supercapacitors.
Recent Progress on Electrocatalytic Valorization of Biomass‐Derived Organics
Authors: Yang Ming , Yuan Zhenran , Peng Rixin , Wang Shuangyin , Zou Yuqin
Published: October 2021

Electrocatalytic valorization of biomass derivatives can be powered by electricity generated from renewable sources such as solar and wind energy. A shift from centralized, high‐temperature, and energy‐intensive processes to decentralized, low‐temperature conversions is achieved, which meets the requirement of sustainable energy generation. This approach provides an efficient, green, and additive‐free strategy for biomass derivative valorization, in which product selectivity could be easily regulated by the applied potential and electrocatalyst utilized. However, a scale‐up application is still far from being completed due to the inability of conversion rates and selectivity to meet the industrialization requirements. A better understanding of the reaction mechanism and the development of high‐efficiency and high‐selectivity electrocatalysts are required to pave the path toward larger industrialization applications. Herein, we summarize the recent research progress in the electrocatalytic oxidation and hydrogenation of platform compounds such as furanic compounds and glycerol. In the literature, these three research areas are integrated to realize the scale‐up application of the processes as mentioned above. The investigations of the mechanism are based on in situ techniques, theoretical calculations, and advanced electrocatalyst studies. Finally, the challenges and prospects in this topic are described. We expect that this review will provide the fundamental understanding and design guidelines to achieve efficient and high‐selectivity catalysts and further facilitate the scale‐up application of the electrocatalytic conversion of biomass derivatives.
Aberrant hepatic trafficking of gut‐derived T cells is not specific to primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Graham Jonathon J. , Mukherjee Sujit , Yuksel Muhammad , Sanabria Mateos Rebeca , Si Tengfei , Huang Zhenlin , Huang Xiahong , Abu Arqoub Hadil , Patel Vishal , McPhail Mark , Zen Yoh , Heaton Nigel , Longhi Maria Serena , Heneghan Michael A. , Liberal Rodrigo , Vergani Diego , Mieli‐Vergani Giorgina , Ma Yun , Hayee Bu’Hussain
Published: October 2021

Background and Aims

The “gut homing” hypothesis suggests the pathogenesis of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is driven by aberrant hepatic expression of gut adhesion molecules and subsequent recruitment of gut‐derived T cells to the liver. However, inconsistencies lie within this theory including an absence of investigations and comparisons with other chronic liver diseases (CLD). Here, we examine “the gut homing theory” in patients with PSC with associated inflammatory bowel disease (PSC‐IBD) and across multiple inflammatory liver diseases.

Approach and Results

Expression of MAdCAM‐1, CCL25, and E‐Cadherin were assessed histologically and using RT‐PCR on explanted liver tissue from patients with CLD undergoing OLT and in normal liver. Liver mononuclear cells were isolated from explanted tissue samples and the expression of gut homing integrins and cytokines on hepatic infiltrating gut‐derived T cells was assessed using flow cytometry. Hepatic expression of MAdCAM‐1, CCL25 and E‐Cadherin was up‐regulated in all CLDs compared with normal liver. There were no differences between disease groups. Frequencies of α4β7, αEβ7, CCR9, and GPR15 expressing hepatic T cells was increased in PSC‐IBD, but also in CLD controls, compared with normal liver. β7 expressing hepatic T cells displayed an increased inflammatory phenotype compared with β7 negative cells, although this inflammatory cytokine profile was present in both the inflamed and normal liver.

Conclusions

These findings refute the widely accepted “gut homing” hypothesis as the primary driver of PSC and indicate that aberrant hepatic recruitment of gut‐derived T cells is not unique to PSC, but is a panetiological feature of CLD.
An AFM study of the nanostructural response of New Zealand white rabbit Achilles tendons to cyclic loading
Authors: Al Makhzoomi Anas K. , Kirk Thomas B. , Allison Garry T.
Published: October 2021

The nanostructural response of New Zealand white rabbit Achilles tendons to a fatigue damage model was assessed quantitatively and qualitatively using the endpoint of dose assessments of each tendon from our previous study. The change in mechanical properties was assessed concurrently with nanostructural change in the same non‐viable intact tendon. Atomic force microscopy was used to study the elongation of D‐periodicities, and the changes were compared both within the same fibril bundle and between fibril bundles. D‐periodicities increased due to both increased strain and increasing numbers of fatigue cycles. Although no significant difference in D‐periodicity lengthening was found between fibril bundles, the lengthening of D‐periodicity correlated strongly with the overall tendon mechanical changes. The accurate quantification of fibril elongation in response to macroscopic applied strain assisted in assessing the complex structure–function relationship in Achilles tendons.
Low chromatic spanning sub(di)graphs with prescribed degree or connectivity properties
Authors: Bang‐Jensen J. , Havet F. , Kriesell M. , Yeo A.
Published: October 2021

Generalizing well‐known results of Erdős and Lovász, we show that every graph contains a spanning ‐partite subgraph with , where is the edge‐connectivity of . In particular, together with a well‐known result due to Nash‐Williams and Tutte, this implies that every 7‐edge‐connected graph contains a spanning bipartite graph whose edge set decomposes into two edge‐disjoint spanning trees. We show that this is best possible as it does not hold for infinitely many 6‐edge‐connected graphs. For directed graphs, it was shown by Bang‐Jensen et al. that there is no such that every ‐arc‐connected digraph has a spanning strong bipartite subdigraph. We prove that every strong digraph has a spanning strong 3‐partite subdigraph and that every strong semicomplete digraph on at least six vertices contains a spanning strong bipartite subdigraph. We generalize this result to higher connectivities by proving that, for every positive integer , every ‐arc‐connected digraph contains a spanning ()‐partite subdigraph which is ‐arc‐connected and this is best possible. A conjecture by Kreutzer et al. implies that every digraph of minimum out‐degree contains a spanning 3‐partite subdigraph with minimum out‐degree at least . We prove that the bound would be best possible by providing an infinite class of digraphs with minimum out‐degree which do not contain any spanning 3‐partite subdigraph in which all out‐degrees are at least . We also prove that every digraph of minimum semidegree at least contains a spanning 6‐partite subdigraph in which every vertex has in‐ and out‐degree at least .
Assessments of multiple gridded‐rainfall datasets for characterizing the precipitation concentration index and its trends in India
Authors: Bhattacharyya Suman , Sreekesh S.
Published: October 2021

Rainfall is time concentric in nature. The spatial and temporal distribution of rainfall is changing over the Earth with recent anthropogenic warming. The study explores various characteristics of annual and seasonal concentration of rainfall across India using the precipitation concentration index (PCI) and its trends during the period of 1986–2015, based on a high‐resolution gauge‐based rainfall data (0.25 × 0.25°), obtained from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). An intercomparison is made with 11 other gridded rainfall datasets to infer whether these datasets can reasonably reproduce the spatiotemporal distribution of PCI and its trends in various homogenous rainfall regions of India or not. These datasets are categorized into gauge‐based (APHRODITE, GPCC, CPC), satellite‐derived (CHIRPS, PERSIANN‐CDR), and reanalysis (JRA‐55, MERRA‐2, NCEP‐2, PGF, ERA‐Interim, ERA‐5). On annual scale, about 8.52, 24.1, and 67.38% of area of India are under moderate, irregular, and strongly irregular rainfall distribution, respectively. Spatial variation of PCI in India is influenced by geographical factors such as latitude, longitude, and elevation. Significant increasing and decreasing trends in annual PCI have been observed in the northeast, eastern, and western coasts of India, respectively. Gridded data intercomparison suggests that the gauge‐based APHRODITE, GPCC, and satellite‐derived CHIRPS datasets better perform in capturing the temporal and spatial variation of PCI across India when compared to the IMD gridded dataset, whereas the ERA‐5 performs better among the reanalysis datasets. However, the rainfall datasets exhibited marked differences with the IMD while estimating the annual and seasonal trend and its magnitude across various regions of India. The JRA‐55 overestimated areas of positive trend and its magnitude on annual and seasonal scale. These findings have practical implications for hydroclimatic studies.
Utilization of low‐cost agricultural by‐product rice husk for Monascus pigments production via submerged batch‐fermentation
Authors: Zhang Song , Zhao Wen , Nkechi Omeoga , Lu Pengxin , Bai Jie , Lin Qinlu , Liu Jun
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Monascus pigments (MPs) produced by the genus Monascus, have been utilized for more than 2000 years in the food industry. In the present study, by submerged batch‐fermentation (SBF), we were able to obtain a mutant strain with a high tolerance of inhibitory compounds generated from rice husk hydrolysate, allowing the production of MPs.

RESULTS

The mutant strain, M. Purpureus M523 with high rice husk hydrolysate tolerance was obtained using the atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP) screening system, producing 39.48 U mL−1 extracellular total MPs (yellow and orange MPs), using non‐detoxified rice husk diluted sulfuric acid hydrolysate (RHSAH) as the carbon source in SBF. Extracellular MPs (exMPs) production was enhanced to 72.1 and 80.7 U mL−1 in supplemented SBF (SSBF) and immobilized fermentation (IF) using non‐detoxified RHSAH, with productivities of 0.16 and 0.37 U mL−1 h−1, respectively. In addition, our findings revealed that despite having a high RHSAH tolerance, the mutant strain was unable to degrade phenolic compounds. Furthermore, we discovered that inhibitory compounds, including furfural (Fur) and 5′‐hydroxymethyl furfural (5′‐HMF), not only inhibit MP biosynthesis, but also regulate the conversion of pigment components.

CONCLUSION

The low‐cost agricultural by‐product, rice husk, can serve as an efficient substitute for MP production with high productivity via IF by Monascus spp. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Existence and regularity results for semi‐linearized compressible 2D fluids with generalized diffusion
Authors: Bisconti Luca
Published: October 2021

We consider semi‐linearized compressible Navier–Stokes equations, in a two‐dimensional periodic domain, introducing in this scheme generalized diffusive terms. After rewriting the equations in terms of a potential flow for the velocity, we prove existence and regularity for a suitable class of weak solutions.
Could posturography be a useful outcome measure for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy?
Authors: Gable Karissa L. , Allen Jeffrey A.
Published: October 2021

See article on pages 43–50 in this issue.
Carbon‐Fiber Cloth Decorated with 3D Flower‐Like GO/WO3 Quantum Dots/TiO2 Microsphere with High Photocatalytic Activity under Natural Sunlight
Authors: Wang Chen , Wang Shiliang , Qian Guoping , Chen Chuansheng
Published: October 2021

Nanopowder photocatalyst suffers two serious problems (low photocatalytic efficiency, easy aggregation, and difficult recycling) in water treatment. For solving these issues, a 3D flower‐like graphene oxide (GO)/WO3 quantum dots (QDs)/TiO2 microsphere (FWGT) with excellent photocatalytic property is synthesized by a hydrothermal method which can degrade 100% Rhodamine B (RhB) within 10 min under solar light irradiation. Meanwhile, a carbon‐fiber cloth/FWGT (CF/FGT) membrane is constructed by decorating the FWGT microsphere on the surface of the carbon‐fiber cloth. CF/FGWT membrane displays better photocatalytic activity compared with carbon‐fiber cloth/flower‐like GO/TiO2 microsphere (CF/FGT) membrane, which the reaction rate constants of CF/FGWT membrane are 3.52 times higher than that of CF/FGT membrane. Moreover, the CF/FGWT membrane shows a little quality loss (about 1.7%) after several recycles, indicating the novel flexible photocatalytic membrane has great potential for purifying water.
Strategic resource decay
Authors: Karadag Reha , Poppo Laura
Published: October 2021

Research Summary

The isolating mechanisms of strategic resources ensure their robustness against external factors. However, resources are also internally dynamic: Natural resources are depleted, employees retire, and patents expire. We develop a theoretical framework about the limitations to the sustainability of resource‐driven competitive advantage and posit that most strategic resources endogenously lose their value‐creating potential due to two factors, time and deployment, through what we label “strategic resource decay.” Our typology links resource characteristics to the mechanisms of decay and replenishment. We then examine the relationship between strategic resource decay and firm performance and explore its boundary conditions. We conclude that the firm can mitigate the negative effects of decay if it synchronizes its resource management actions with the temporal properties of its strategic resources.

Managerial Summary

To sustain a competitive advantage, managers need to understand not only the competitive dynamics of the industry but also the lifespans of the firm's strategic resources. Decay limits the useful lives of strategic resources temporally and/or in the resources’ potential extent of deployment. Because firms can potentially prevent the exhaustion of their non‐tradable strategic resources through replenishment, the decay of tradable strategic resources poses a greater challenge for managers. We also posit that strategic resource decay is a more salient threat in industries that are not characterized by rapid change. To counter the threat posed by strategic resource decay, firms need to engage in resource management activity, the timing and extent of which should be aligned with the temporal properties of the strategic resources.
Advances and Promises of 2D MXenes as Cocatalysts for Artificial Photosynthesis
Authors: Ding Mingye , Han Chenhui , Yuan Yongjun , Xu Jingsan , Yang Xiaofei
Published: October 2021

2D MXenes have received growing attention as highly active and earth‐abundant cocatalysts for photocatalytic applications, due to their merits including rich surface chemistry, excellent electrical conductivity, distinct carrier mobility, and good hydrophilicity. In this review, the research progress on MXenes and MXene‐based composites in photocatalysis are systematically summarized and discussed. Based on the theoretical and experimental studies, this review focuses mainly on the synthetic methods of MXenes, the roles of MXenes in photocatalysis, the design strategies for MXene‐based composites and the state‐of‐the‐art applications of these MXene‐based materials in photocatalytic reactions, including water splitting, CO2 reduction, and nitrogen fixation. In addition, this review outlines the surface modification and enhancement mechanism from a material design and synthesis perspective, and highlights the pivotal challenges and potential opportunities in the field of MXene‐involved photocatalysis. Therefore, this review is expected to provide a useful reference for the development of MXene‐related photocatalytic applications.
On factorizable S-matrices, generalized TTbar, and the Hagedorn transition
Authors: Camilo Giancarlo , Fleury Thiago , Lencsés Máté , Negro Stefano , Zamolodchikov Alexander
Published: October 2021

Abstract

We study solutions of the Thermodynamic Bethe Ansatz equations for relativistic theories defined by the factorizable S-matrix of an integrable QFT deformed by CDD factors. Such S-matrices appear under generalized TTbar deformations of integrable QFT by special irrelevant operators. The TBA equations, of course, determine the ground state energy E(R) of the finite-size system, with the spatial coordinate compactified on a circle of circumference R. We limit attention to theories involving just one kind of stable particles, and consider deformations of the trivial (free fermion or boson) S-matrix by CDD factors with two elementary poles and regular high energy asymptotics — the “2CDD model”. We find that for all values of the parameters (positions of the CDD poles) the TBA equations exhibit two real solutions at R greater than a certain parameter-dependent value R*, which we refer to as the primary and secondary branches. The primary branch is identified with the standard iterative solution, while the secondary one is unstable against iterations and needs to be accessed through an alternative numerical method known as pseudo-arc-length continuation. The two branches merge at the “turning point” R* (a square-root branching point). The singularity signals a Hagedorn behavior of the density of high energy states of the deformed theories, a feature incompatible with the Wilsonian notion of a local QFT originating from a UV fixed point, but typical for string theories. This behavior of E(R) is qualitatively the same as the one for standard TTbar deformations of local QFT.
Die neue Gesetzgebung zur Organspende – Wirkung, Potenzial und Grenzen aus der Sicht klinisch tätiger Ärzt:innen
Authors: Fehring Zoë , Boehme Philip , Wirth Stefan , Fehring Leonard
Published: October 2021

Hintergrund

Die neuen Gesetze zur Organspende von 2019 und 2020 umfassen Regelungen zur Steigerung der Organspenderate. Dazu zählen Strukturverbesserungen, die Einführung eines Online-Registers zur Dokumentation der Entscheidung zur Organspende und die verbesserte Aufklärung der Bevölkerung. Zur Einschätzung der Maßnahmen durch unmittelbar betroffene klinisch tätige Ärzte ist bislang wenig bekannt.

Methode

Es wurde eine zweistufige Sequential-mixed-method-Studie durchgeführt. Im Rahmen einer Online-Umfrage nahmen deutschlandweit 1235 Ärzte von über 90 Kliniken teil.

Ergebnisse

Klinisch tätige Ärzte benennen größtenteils strukturelle Defizite als Ursachen für die niedrige Spenderrate in Deutschland. Weniger als die Hälfte der Ärzte, die mit Organspende in Kontakt kommen, findet sich ausreichend über Organspende ausgebildet. Ärztliche Aufklärungsgespräche haben wesentlichen Einfluss auf die Entscheidungsfindung von Patienten, werden aber kaum geführt. Da Patienten und Angehörige sich zu Lebzeiten zu wenig mit den Themen Tod und Organspende auseinandersetzten, führt die individuelle Entscheidungssituation oft zu Überforderung. Hausärzten kommt eine Schüsselrolle bei der Aufklärung zu. Von der Einführung eines Online-Registers erwarten nur wenige Befragte einen Einfluss auf die Organspenderate.

Schlussfolgerung

Mit der neuesten Gesetzgebung wurde ein Großteil der von Ärzten benannten strukturellen Defizite aufgegriffen. Eine zusätzliche Steigerung der Organspenderate könnte durch professionalisierte Angehörigenbetreuung erreicht werden. Eine stärkere Thematisierung von Tod und Organspende in der Gesellschaft könnte im individuellen Fall die Entscheidungsfindung von Angehörigen erleichtern.