bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Race and Ethnicity With Medication Use for Pediatric Lupus in the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Registry
Authors: Roberts Jordan E. , Berbert Laura , Chang Joyce , Son Mary Beth F. ,   for the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Registry Investigators
Published: August 2022

Objective

Black and Hispanic children with pediatric lupus (pSLE) have higher morbidity and mortality than non‐Hispanic White children. The extent to which differences in outcomes are due to treatment disparities, including medication use, is unknown. We aimed to determine whether medication use in pSLE is associated with race and ethnicity in the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) Registry.

Methods

Patients with pSLE enrolled in the CARRA Registry from 2017 to 2020 were included. Multivariable mixed‐effect logistic regression, adjusted for site of care, was used to compare use of antimalarials, high‐dose oral glucocorticoids, and rituximab in Black and Hispanic children.

Results

We identified 639 children with pSLE, of whom 480 had at least 1 year of follow‐up. At enrollment, 89% of patients were prescribed an antimalarial and 50% were on high‐dose glucocorticoids. Of those with 1 year of follow‐up, 12% received rituximab. Nephritis, shorter disease duration, and higher Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 scores were associated with high‐dose glucocorticoid use. Antimalarial use was higher among those with nephritis and lower in children with no insurance. Rituximab use was associated with Black race in the fixed‐effects model but not when adjusted for site of care.

Conclusion

We identified differences in medication use by race and insurance status. Site of care was associated with the racial differences observed in rituximab use. Further research is needed to optimize pSLE treatments particularly where use is highly variable, including glucocorticoid dosing and use of rituximab, and understand the impact of practice variation on disparities in pSLE outcomes.
Mechanisms for Reduced Fibrin Clot Formation on Liquid‐Infused Surfaces
Authors: Hong Jun Ki , Ruhoff Alexander M. , Mathur Kavya , Neto Chiara , Waterhouse Anna
Published: August 2022

Biomedical devices are prone to blood clot formation (thrombosis), and liquid‐infused surfaces (LIS) are effective in reducing the thrombotic response. However, the mechanisms that underpin this performance, and in particular the role of the lubricant, are not well understood. In this work, it is investigated whether the mechanism of LIS action is related to i) inhibition of factor XII (FXII) activation and the contact pathway; ii) reduced fibrin density of clots formed on surfaces; iii) increased mobility of proteins or cells on the surface due to the interfacial flow of the lubricant. The chosen LIS is covalently tethered, nanostructured layers of perfluorocarbons, infused with thin films of medical‐grade perfluorodecalin (tethered‐liquid perfluorocarbon), prepared with chemical vapor deposition previously optimized to retain lubricant under flow. Results show that in the absence of external flow, interfacial mobility is inherently higher at the liquid–blood interface, making it a key contributor to the low thrombogenicity of LIS, as FXII activity and fibrin density are equivalent at the interface. The findings of this study advance the understanding of the anti‐thrombotic behavior of LIS‐coated biomedical devices for future coating design. More broadly, enhanced interfacial mobility may be an important, underexplored mechanism for the anti‐fouling behavior of surface coatings.
Ultrathin Piezoelectric Resonators Based on Graphene and Free‐Standing Single‐Crystal BaTiO3
Authors: Lee Martin , Renshof Johannes R. , van Zeggeren Kasper J. , Houmes Maurits J. A. , Lesne Edouard , Šiškins Makars , van Thiel Thierry C. , Guis Ruben H. , van Blankenstein Mark R. , Verbiest Gerard J. , Caviglia Andrea D. , van der Zant Herre S. J. , Steeneken Peter G.
Published: August 2022

Suspended piezoelectric thin films are key elements enabling high‐frequency filtering in telecommunication devices. To meet the requirements of next‐generation electronics, it is essential to reduce device thickness for reaching higher resonance frequencies. Here, the high‐quality mechanical and electrical properties of graphene electrodes are combined with the strong piezoelectric performance of the free‐standing complex oxide, BaTiO3 (BTO), to create ultrathin piezoelectric resonators. It is demonstrated that the device can be brought into mechanical resonance by piezoelectric actuation. By sweeping the DC bias voltage on the top graphene electrode, the BTO membrane is switched between the two poled ferroelectric states. Remarkably, ferroelectric hysteresis is also observed in the resonance frequency, magnitude and Q‐factor of the first membrane mode. In the bulk acoustic mode, the device vibrates at 233 GHz. This work demonstrates the potential of combining van der Waals materials with complex oxides for next‐generation electronics, which not only opens up opportunities for increasing filter frequencies, but also enables reconfiguration by poling, via ferroelectric memory effect.
Renewable dissymmetric sulfonate gemini surfactants from addition of sodium hydrogensulfite to alkyl linoleate
Authors: Li Xu , Li Jiaqi , Jia Zhengze , Yang Lijun , Dong Jinxiang
Published: August 2022

A new series of bio‐based sulfonate gemini surfactants was synthesized through esterification of renewable linoleic acid with various alcohols and subsequent sulfonation with readily available sodium hydrogensulfite (NaHSO3). Organocatalytic sulfonation of methyl linoleate with NaHSO3 by the triethylamine and tert‐butyl peroxybenzoate catalyst system was investigated, where a methyl linoleate conversion of 96.4% could be achieved while generating high purity product without tedious purification. Three resulting sodium alkyl linoleate disulfonates (SALDs) have been characterized by Fourier transform infrared, high‐performance liquid chromatography, LC–MS, high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HR–MS), nuclear magnetic resonance techniques, and thermogravimetric analysis. The physicochemical properties and surface properties of the SALDs at various concentrations were investigated. The results showed that the SALDs exhibited low Krafft temperature, high water solubility, foam stability (foam half‐life time could reach 15 min), emulsifying ability (emulsification time of 2.0 g/L is 192 s), and good thermal stability. This study enriches the family of anionic gemini surfactants and provides reference data for facile preparation of gemini surfactants.
Mesoporous silica nanostructure modified with azo gatekeepers for colon targeted delivery of 5‐fluorouracil
Authors: Farjadian Fatemeh , Moghadam Maryam , Monfared Mohammad , Mohammadi‐Samani Soliman
Published: August 2022

In this study, amino‐functionalized mesoporous silica (MS) particles were synthesized and loaded with the anticancer drug, 5‐Fu. In a post‐modification reaction, the pores were gated by an azobenzene derivative to act as an enzyme‐responsive drug delivery system. The synthesis and characterization of the MS structure were validated using various instrumental techniques such as XRD, N2 adsorption/desorption, and FE‐SEM and TEM. The loading efficiency and capacity of 5‐Fu adsorption onto MS were evaluated; the adsorption isotherm graphs were plotted. The enzyme responsiveness feature of this nanocarrier was tested in the 5‐Fu release study. The 5‐Fu release from MS and the azo‐capped compound was measured, and when sodium dithionite was used as a reducing agent and an azoreductase enzyme mimicker, the controlled release was observed. Finally, the cytotoxicity of 5‐Fu loaded and azo‐capped MS in normal medium and sodium dithionate‐containing medium was evaluated and compared with the cytotoxicity of the free drug.
The Supreme Court's 2021–2022 Arbitration Cases: A More Textualist Approach
Authors: Szalai Imre
Published: August 2022

The U.S. Supreme Court's arbitration‐heavy docket this past term reminds me of the central role arbitration plays in society. Through its five arbitration decisions in the 2021‐2022 session concluded in June, the Court fine‐tuned this system of arbitration.
More Tips, Suggestions, and Techniques for Effective Listening and Hearing in Mediation
Authors: Creo Robert Angelo
Published: August 2022

Following from the previous Master Mediator column, listening is a multidimensional practice that requires commitment and constant attention. See Robert Angelo Creo, “The Science of Hearing Effectively,” 40 Alternatives 91 (June 2022) (available at https://bit.ly/3yV1MJl).
Heterocyclic Hemithioindigos: Highly Advantageous Properties as Molecular Photoswitches**
Authors: Josef Verena , Hampel Frank , Dube Henry
Published: August 2022

A survey of heterocyclic hemithioindigo photoswitches is presented identifying a number of structural motives with outstanding property profiles. The highly sought‐after combination of pronounced color change, quantitative switching in both directions, exceptional high quantum yields, and tunable high thermal stability of metastable states can be realized with 4‐imidazole, 2‐pyrrole, and 3‐indole‐based derivatives. In the former, an unusual preorganization using isomer selective chalcogen‐ and hydrogen bonding allows to precisely control geometry changes and tautomerism upon switching. Heterocyclic hemithioindigos thus represent highly promising photoswitches with advanced capabilities that will be of great value to anyone interested in establishing defined and reversible control at the molecular level.
Dinuclear bismuth(III) complex constructed by isoniazid‐derived Schiff base: Synthesis, crystal structure, and biological activity
Authors: Li Chuan‐Hua , Ji Meng‐Han , Zhang Kai‐Wen , Sun Shou‐Ying , Jiang Jian‐Hong
Published: August 2022

A new bismuth(III) Schiff‐base complex [Bi2(HL)2(NO3)4(CH3OH)]•2CH3OH was prepared by reaction of the equivalent molar of Schiff‐base ligand [H2L = (E)‐N′‐(2‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzylidene)isonicotinohydrazide] and Bi (NO3)3•5H2O with the assistance of mannitol. The complex was structurally characterized by elemental analysis, spectroscopic methods (FT‐IR, MS, 1HNMR, and 13CNMR) and single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The molecular structure of the complex reveals that the ligand forms a 1:1 complex with bismuth(III) ion. It is composed of two 7‐coordinated bismuth(III) ions, two tetradentate O2N‐donor ligands, four nitrate ions, and three methanol molecules. The complex and its free ligand were evaluated against gram‐positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis) and gram‐negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The complex was more active than the ligand against all bacterial strains. Their cytotoxic activity was also investigated against SNU‐16 cell. The complex is approximately three times more potent than the ligand, with the IC50 values 0.35 and 1.18 μM for the complex and its ligand, respectively.
Local silica sand as a silica source in the synthesis of Y zeolite
Authors: Al‐nayili Abbas , Rzoqy Mohamed
Published: August 2022

The objective of this research is to generate Y zeolite using local silica sand as a source of silica via the hydrothermal method. Prior to synthesis, contaminants were removed from the local silica sand using hydrochloric acid, and Al2O3 was utilized as an aluminum source. Y zeolite was hydrothermally synthesized at 100± 1°C. Room temperature and 48 h were chosen as the aging temperature and period, respectively. In this synthesis, the impact of reaction time and different SiO2/Al2O3 and Na2O/SiO2 ratios were explored. The synthesized samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, and FT‐IR. Y zeolite, with a low SiO2/Al2O3 ratio (3.0–3.9), was synthesized at a high yield under low alkalinity conditions (Na2O/SiO2 = 0.9–2.0) after optimizing the synthesis time. The competitive phase was P zeolite, which was found in the products at high reaction time (12 h). However, pure Y zeolite with high crystallinity was produced under optimum circumstances, such as crystallization temperature (100°C) and 10 h. The findings reveal that reaction time has a role in the generation of Y zeolite. It has been revealed that low‐cost raw materials like silica sand can be utilized to produce Y zeolite. The NaY zeolites were subsequently transformed into HY by ammonium exchange and calcination.
Study on the healing performance of poly(ε‐caprolactone) filled ultraviolet‐curable 3D printed cyclic trimethylolpropane formal acrylate shape memory polymers
Authors: Wen Jia , Chen Tingjun , Wang Jiayao , Tuo Xiaohang , Gong Yumei , Guo Jing
Published: August 2022

The research and application of ultraviolet‐curable 3D printed shape memory polymers have been focused on artificial intelligence, bionic engineering, and medical devices, and so forth. However, this photopolymer has the disadvantages of low toughness and easy to be damaged. As a healing agent and toughening agent, the thermoplastic polymer polycaprolactone (PCL) is used to improve the utility value of 3D printed cyclic trimethylolpropane formal acrylate (CTFA) shape memory composites. The filling content of PCL is evaluated through multiscale observation, mechanical test, thermal analysis and comparison before and after healing. PCL with 5% filling content not only improves the flexibility and scratch healing ability of 3D printed samples, but also maintains the shape memory characteristics of the samples. The blending structure constructed by PCL and CTFA polymers plays an important role in balancing the various properties of the 3D printed composites.
Identification and expression profiling of serine protease‐related genes in Tenebrio molitor
Authors: Wu Chao‐Yan , Xiao Kai‐Ran , Wang Long‐Zhang , Wang Jun , Song Qi‐Sheng , Stanley David , Wei Shu‐Jun , Zhu Jia‐Ying
Published: August 2022

In insects, serine proteases and serine protease homologs (SPs/SPHs) are involved in a variety of physiological processes including digestion, development, and immunity. Here, we identified 112 SP and 88 SPH genes in the genome of the yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor. Based on the features of domain structure, they were divided into “S” group containing single Tryp‐SPc or Tryp‐SPHc domain, “C” group containing 1–4 CLIP domain (CLIPA‐D) and “M” group containing the CBD, CUB, EGF, Fz, Gd, LDLa, PAN, SEA, SR, Sushi, and TSP domains, and have 115, 48, and 37 gene members, respectively. According to the active sites in the catalytic triad, the putative trypsin, chymotrypsin, or elastase‐like enzyme specificity of the identified SPs/SPHs were predicted. Phylogenetic and genomic location analyses revealed that gene duplication exists in the large amount of SPs/SPHs. Gene expression profiling using RNA‐seq data along with real time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that most SP/SPH genes display life stage specific expression patterns, indicating their important roles in development. Many SP/SPH genes are specifically or highly expressed in the gut, salivary gland, fat body, hemocyte, ovary, and testis, suggesting that they participate in digestion, immunity, and reproduction. The findings lay the foundation for further functional characterization of SPs/SPHs in T. molitor.
Electrophilic Thiocyanation of Tryptamine Derivatives: Divergent Synthesis of SCN‐Containing Indole Compounds
Authors: Ye Ai‐Hui , Song Xu‐Feng , Chen Zhi‐Min
Published: August 2022

A tandem dearomative electrophilic thiocyanation/cyclization/acylation of indoles was developed for the first time, which is enabled by acyl chloride. A variety of 3‐SCN pyrroloindolines were obtained with moderate to excellent yields. Interestingly, following replacement of acyl chloride with methanesulfonic acid, 2‐SCN tryptamines were obtained using the same starting substrates and reagents. Furthermore, catalytic enantioselective manner of thiocyanation/cyclization/acylation reaction was also studied. An enantiomer self‐disproportionation effect of 3‐SCN pyrroloindolines was discovered. A series of chiral 3‐SCN pyrroloindolines were obtained with high enantioselectivities.
Combining verbal forecasts: The role of directionality and the reinforcement effect
Authors: Teigen Karl Halvor , Juanchich Marie , Løhre Erik
Published: August 2022

Recent research has shown that when people combine verbal probabilistic forecasts from two sources, they are not simply averaged but can reinforce each other; so when two advisors both said an event was “rather likely,” some listeners concluded that the event was “quite likely”. Conversely, when both said the event was “rather unlikely,” people concluded that it was “quite unlikely.” The present studies demonstrate that the direction of this effect is not evoked by high versus low probabilities, but by the directionality of verbal probability expressions. Some phrases are affirmative, directed towards occurrences (“there is a chance”), whereas others are negations, pointing to the possibility that the event might not occur (“it is not certain”). Two positive phrases are perceived to reinforce each other, even when they convey low probabilities, resulting in a higher combined probability estimate, whereas two negative phrases do the opposite, regardless of the probabilities they convey. We show that this effect occurs both for equal and unequal verbal phrases, regardless of the probability equivalents of the expressions. We also found a positive, but weaker, reinforcement effect of numerical probabilities.
Collaborative eco‐innovation and green knowledge acquisition: The role of specific investments in Chinese new energy vehicle industry
Authors: Wu Aihua
Published: August 2022

Eco‐innovation has turned into the hotspot of numerous enterprises and governments to gain sustainable development. This study examines how enterprises acquire green knowledge in interorganizational cooperative eco‐innovations, exploring the influence of different collaborative modes and the direct and moderating roles of specific investments. In accordance with interorganizational interaction level, the widely used collaborative modes can be attributed to low‐ (e.g., commissioned research and development [R&D]), medium‐, and high‐interaction modes (e.g., joint R&D and co‐construction of R&D entities). Results from a survey of 172 Chinese firms operating in the new energy vehicle industrial chain support that both specific investments and collaborative eco‐innovation have positive effects on green knowledge acquisition. Furthermore, the positive effect of collaborative eco‐innovation is stronger for high‐interaction collaboration modes than that for low‐interaction collaboration modes. Specific investments also play a moderate role in the link of collaborative eco‐innovation and green knowledge acquisition; similarly, the positive moderating effect is stronger for high‐interaction collaboration modes than that for low‐interaction collaboration modes. These findings suggest that when managers formulate the environmental policy, they should encourage collaboration, interorganizational interactions, and specific investments to acquire green knowledge. This paper mainly contributes to open eco‐innovation literature by revealing the mechanisms and the boundary conditions under which collaborative mode could effectively promote green knowledge acquisition.
Comparison of nomogram and machine‐learning methods for predicting the survival of non‐small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Lei Haike , Li Xiaosheng , Ma Wuren , Hong Na , Liu Chun , Zhou Wei , Zhou Hong , Gong Mengchun , Wang Ying , Wang Guixue , Wu Yongzhong
Published: August 2022

Background

Most patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have a poor prognosis. Predicting overall survival using clinical data would benefit cancer patients by allowing providers to design an optimum treatment plan. We compared the performance of nomograms with machine‐learning models at predicting the overall survival of NSCLC patients. This comparison benefits the development and selection of models during the clinical decision‐making process for NSCLC patients.

Methods

Multiple machine‐learning models were used in a retrospective cohort of 6586 patients. First, we modeled and validated a nomogram to predict the overall survival of NSCLC patients. Subsequently, five machine‐learning models (logistic regression, random forest, XGBoost, decision tree, and light gradient boosting machine) were used to predict survival status. Next, we evaluated the performance of the models. Finally, the machine‐learning model with the highest accuracy was chosen for comparison with the nomogram at predicting survival status by observing a novel performance measure: time‐dependent prediction accuracy.

Results

Among the five machine‐learning models, the accuracy of random forest model outperformed the others. Compared with the nomogram for time‐dependent prediction accuracy with a follow‐up time ranging from 12 to 60 months, the prediction accuracies of both the nomogram and machine‐learning models changed as time varied. The nomogram reached a maximum prediction accuracy of 0.85 in the 60th month, and the random forest algorithm reached a maximum prediction accuracy of 0.74 in the 13th month.

Conclusions

Overall, the nomogram provided more reliable prognostic assessments of NSCLC patients than machine‐learning models over our observation period. Although machine‐learning methods have been widely adopted for predicting clinical prognoses in recent studies, the conventional nomogram was competitive. In real clinical applications, a comprehensive model that combines these two methods may demonstrate superior capabilities.
Association of raloxifene and tamoxifen therapy with cognitive performance, odds of mild cognitive impairment, and brain MRI markers of neurodegeneration
Authors: Kara Firat , Lohse Christine M. , Castillo Anna M. , Tosakulwong Nirubol , Lesnick Timothy G. , Jack Clifford R. , Petersen Ronald C. , Olson Janet E. , Couch Fergus J. , Ruddy Kathryn J. , Kantarci Kejal , Mielke Michelle M.
Published: August 2022

The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to examine whether a history of selective estrogen receptor modifiers (SERMs), tamoxifen and raloxifene, use was associated with cognitive performance, odds of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) markers of neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer's disease. We included women with prior history of breast cancer or no prior history of any cancer at enrollment in the Mayo Clinic Study of Aging (MCSA). This information was abstracted using the Rochester Epidemiology Project medical‐linkage system. Logistic regression was used to examine associations of SERMs with odds of MCI. Linear regression models were used to examine associations of SERMs with cognitive z‐scores (Memory, Executive Function, Language, Visuospatial Skills, Global Cognition), and MRI markers. Among 2840 women aged 50 and older in the MCSA, 151 had a history of breast cancer, and 42 (28%) of these had a history of tamoxifen treatment. A total of 2235 women had no prior history of any cancer, and 76 (3%) of these had a history of raloxifene use. No significant associations between tamoxifen use and cognition, or odds of MCI were observed among women with a history of breast cancer after adjusting for confounders. Similarly, raloxifene use was not significantly associated with cognition, or odds of MCI in women without a history of cancer after adjusting for confounders. We did not find significant associations between the use of either SERM and MRI markers. Use of tamoxifen or raloxifene was not significantly associated with cognition in postmenopausal women.
Exploring the Therapeutic Effects of Black Ginseng on Non‐Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by Using Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Wei Wei , Liu Liming , Liu Xiaokang , Tao Ye , Zhao Xu , Gong Jiyu , Wang Yang , Liu Shuying
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of black ginseng (BG) on non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) using network pharmacology combined with the molecular docking strategy. The saponin composition of BG was analyzed by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC/MS) instrument. Then the network pharmacology was applied to explore the potential targets and related mechanisms of BG in the treatment of NAFLD. After screening out key targets, molecular docking was used to predict the binding modes between ginsenoside and target. Finally, a methionine and choline deficiency (MCD) diet‐induced NAFLD mice model was established to further confirm the therapeutic effect of BG on NAFLD. Twenty‐four ginsenosides were annotated based on the MS and tandem MS information. Ten proteins were screened out as key targets closely related to BG treatment of NAFLD. The molecular docking showed that most of the ginsenosides had good binding affinities with AKT1. The validation experiment revealed that BG administration could reduce serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels and improve the MCD diet‐induced histological changes in liver tissue. Moreover, BG could upregulate the phosphorylation level of AKT in the liver of NAFLD mice, thereby exerting the therapeutic effect on NAFLD. Further studies on the active ginsenosides as well as their synergistic action on NAFLD will be required to reveal the underlying mechanisms in‐depth. This study demonstrates that network pharmacological prediction in conjunction with molecular docking is a viable technique for screening the active chemicals and related targets of BG, which can be applied to other herbal medicines.
Bioethylene and Biopropylene Production from Waste Fat and Rapeseed Oil via Catalytic Hydrodeoxygenation and Hydrocracking Followed by Pyrolysis
Authors: Babor Martin , Tišler Zdeněk , Kocík Jaroslav , Hubáček Jan , Bačiak Miloslav , Herrador José Miguel Hidalgo
Published: August 2022

The production of bioethylene and biopropylene is a promising method for reducing the environmental impact of the plastic industry. Although their production from bioethanol is currently the most studied method, in this study, favorable alternative biofeedstocks were used: rapeseed oil and waste rendering fat. This study focuses on complex feedstock‐to‐product processes that are usable in established industrial units. The first step is catalytic hydrodeoxygenation and hydrocracking. The hydrodeoxygenation conditions were fine‐tuned to induce hydrocracking, and three catalysts, namely, NiW/SiO2‐Al2O3, NiW/phonolite, and WV/TiO2, were tested. The final step was microscale pyrolysis, which was applied to evaluate the product yields. The best yields for both feedstocks were obtained with the NiW/SiO2‐Al2O3 catalyst at 425 °C.
Recent Advances in the Research of Photo‐Assisted Lithium‐Based Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Yu Xingyu , Liu Guoping , Wang Tao , Gong Hao , Qu Hongjiao , Meng Xianguang , He Jianping , Ye Jinhua
Published: August 2022

The application of solar energy is crucial for alleviating the energy crisis and achieving sustainable development. In recent years, photo‐assisted rechargeable batteries have attracted researchers because they can directly convert and store solar energy in the batteries. And it also can be used like a normal battery without light illumination. Photo‐assisted lithium‐based batteries have received more attention than other energy storage systems due to their higher energy density and relatively mature development. This Review focuses on the design of various photo‐assisted lithium‐based batteries including Li‐ion, Li‐S, Li‐O2, Li‐CO2 and Li‐I batteries, as well as the working mechanism of photoelectrodes in these battery systems. The basic understanding and challenge of photo‐assisted lithium‐based batteries are also discussed. At last, perspectives for the photoelectrode development are provided in the summary to advance photo‐assisted energy storage systems.
Application of Design of Experiments for Catalytic Oxygen Removal over Pt/γ‐Al2O3 Catalyst
Authors: Suh Sung Youn , Geitner Christian , Hänel Marvin , Wiesmann Thomas , Watermann Clara Maria , Lohmann Heiko , Apfel Ulf‐Peter , Zeidler‐Fandrich Barbara
Published: August 2022

The following orientational study uses a factorial experimental design (DoE) strategy to determine the influence of different process parameters on the catalytic removal of oxygen traces (4500–9000 ppmv O2) from coke oven gas by commercial Pt/γ‐Al2O3. Along this line, various experiments have been performed from 1 up to 11 bar and 150–250 °C with a gas hourly space velocity between 20 000 and 25 000 h−1. The statistical analysis demonstrates that the applied temperature and pressure have a significant impact on the oxygen removal process. Experiments using gas mixtures with additional 350 ppmv H2S indicate a deactivation of the catalyst with a 66 % oxygen conversion at 250 °C and 6 bar. The close agreement between predicted and experimental data highlights the efficient approach for optimizing the oxygen removal from coke oven gas utilizing DoE strategies.
Discovery of Benzo[d]imidazole‐6‐sulfonamides as Bromodomain and Extra‐Terminal Domain (BET) Inhibitors with Selectivity for the First Bromodomain
Authors: Cipriano Alessandra , Milite Ciro , Feoli Alessandra , Viviano Monica , Pepe Giacomo , Campiglia Pietro , Sarno Giuliana , Picaud Sarah , Imaide Satomi , Makukhin Nikolai , Filippakopoulos Panagis , Ciulli Alessio , Castellano Sabrina , Sbardella Gianluca
Published: August 2022

The bromodomain and extra‐terminal (BET) family of proteins includes BRD2, BRD3, BRD4, and the testis‐specific protein, BRDT, each containing two N‐terminal tandem bromodomain (BRD) modules. Potent and selective inhibitors targeting the two bromodomains are required to elucidate their biological role(s), with potential clinical applications. In this study, we designed and synthesized a series of benzimidazole‐6‐sulfonamides starting from the azobenzene compounds MS436 (7 a) and MS611 (7 b) that exhibited preference for the first (BD1) over the second (BD2) BRD of BET family members. The most‐promising compound (9 a) showed good binding potency and improved metabolic stability and selectivity towards BD1 with respect to the parent compounds.
Genetic variation for seed retention in accessions and genotypic lines of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.)
Authors: Tubbs Travis B. , Chastain Thomas G.
Published: August 2022

Seed shattering is a key constraint to improvement of seed yield in perennial ryegrass and, as a result, seed retention is an essential trait for breeding of this valuable crop. It is unclear whether sources of seed retention are available to plant breeders. Field studies were conducted near Corvallis, OR in 2 yr (2017–2018 and 2018–2019) to identify genetic variation for seed retention and to ascertain whether there was variation for phenotypic traits that may contribute to seed loss due to shattering. The field studies examined the values and variation in these traits in 40 diverse global accessions and genotypic lines within accessions. Plant mortality was high as only 21 of the original 40 accessions survived in sufficient numbers for analysis. The accessions and genotypic lines exhibited great variation in growth habit, spikelets per spike, seeds per spike, seed weight, spike length, and seed retention. Seed retention among accessions ranged from 27.1 to 78.7% with a commercial cultivar at 42.4% retention. For the most part, the values and variation observed in other characteristics were similar to that found in perennial ryegrass in other investigations, and some materials were representative of commercial cultivars. This study presents evidence that sources of higher seed retention than is found in commercial cultivars of perennial ryegrass is available from these accessions and could be used in the breeding of shatter‐resistant cultivars.
How can corporate culture contribute to emission reduction in the construction sector? An SME case study on beliefs, actions, and outcomes
Authors: Isensee Carmen , Teuteberg Frank , Griese Kai‐Michael
Published: August 2022

In the race against climate change, small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) play a fundamental role. To clarify the contribution of corporate culture to SMEs' emission reduction, three perspectives can be useful: corporate culture as driver and barrier, current and planned corporate culture development actions, and the corporate culture profile as an outcome. As the first application of the extended Belief‐Action‐Outcome framework, this single case study exemplifies the role of corporate culture in an SME from the steel construction and manufacturing sector in Germany. The investigated SME has achieved emission reduction while increasing its revenue and is an early adopter of sustainable and digital development. The rich insights from an employee survey, semi‐structured interviews, observation, and document analysis allowed us to outline an informed approach toward corporate culture development that emphasizes vision development of the desired corporate culture and the role of information systems for promoting emission reduction.
Performance analysis of least reliable symbol based ordered successive interference cancelation detection method for uplink NOMA
Authors: Makkar Rahul , Rawal Divyang , Sharma Nikhil , Gupta Akash
Published: August 2022

Nonorthogonal multiple access (NOMA) is one of the key techniques to improve the spectral efficiency required for fifth‐generation (5G) mobile networks. A severe interuser interference is encountered during the detection process in the uplink NOMA scenario, leading to the imperfect successive interference cancelation (SIC), thereby resulting in extreme SIC error propagation. In this work, we propose a novel least‐reliable symbol‐based ordered‐successive interference cancelation (LRS‐OSIC) detection method for uplink NOMA to mitigate the severe effects of SIC error propagation. The bit error rate (BER) performance is presented for different phase‐shift keying (PSK) modulation schemes to better understand the proposed LRS‐OSIC algorithm. Further, detailed comparative analysis with the existing detection techniques for uplink NOMA is illustrated in terms of error rate and computation complexity. The obtained results prove that the proposed LRS‐OSIC detection method for uplink NOMA outperforms other existing techniques and closely matches the best achievable error performance as accomplished by the maximum likelihood (ML) decoder. Moreover, the simulation results are extended for three user scenarios to validate the benefits of the proposed LRS‐OSIC algorithm for more than two user scenarios.
Synthesis, Structure, and Bonding Analysis of Lewis Base and Lewis Acid/Base‐Stabilized Phosphanylgallanes
Authors: Demirer T. Ilgin , Morgenstern Bernd , Andrada Diego M.
Published: August 2022

Phosphanylgallane with hydrogen and halogen substituents (RXGa−PHR, R=organic substituent, X=halogen/hydrogen) are regarded as putative suitable precursors for accessing Ga=P doubly bonded species. Herein, we report on the synthesis, structure, and bonding analysis of a series of Lewis base‐ and Lewis acid/base‐stabilized phosphanylgallane bearing P−H and Ga−Cl/H substitution. To avoid oligomerization, the treatment of IDip.GaCl3 and (IDip)GaH2Cl (IDip=1,3‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl) imidazole‐2‐ylidene) with LiPHR or LiPHR(BH3) (R=Ph, Tip, Mes, NiPr2, NCy2) affords the corresponding Lewis base and Lewis acid/base coordinated H,Cl‐functionalized monomeric phosphanylgallane, respectively. The structure of these derivatives were determined by spectroscopic and X‐ray crystallographic analyses. The observed Ga−P bond lengths are comparable to those previously reported phosphanylgallane analogues. The nature of the CIDip‐Ga coordination bond was assessed with Energy Decomposition Analysis, suggesting a relatively stable adduct. Reactions of the phosphanylgallane with Brønsted bases were investigated.
Voltammetric Determination of Oxybutynin Hydrochloride Utilizing Pencil Graphite Electrode Decorated with Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Arafa Reham M. , Mahmoud Amr M. , Eltanany Basma M. , Galal Maha M.
Published: August 2022

A novel voltammetric method was successfully applied for the determination of an anticholinergic drug, oxybutynin hydrochloride (OXB). The method is concerned with electrooxidation of the drug on the surface of pencil graphite electrode (PGE). In order to enhance the electrode sensitivity and peak current, the electrode was coated with gold nanoparticles (Au‐NPs) via electrochemical deposition using cyclic voltammetry from gold salt solution. The surface of Au‐NPs modified PGE has been characterized using scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Various experimental variables were studied and optimized to enhance the sensor's response towards OXB. Quantitative determination of the drug was achieved in phosphate buffer pH 7.5 using differential pulse voltammetry by scanning the potential over range of 0.00 to 2.20 V with scan rate of 40 mV s−1. Validation of the method was achieved according to ICH guidelines. The method was found to be linear over concentration range (2.0×10−7–1.0×10−6 M). The suggested sensor was efficiently developed for the quantitative determination of OXB in pure form, pharmaceutical dosage form and spiked plasma samples.
Simultaneous Molecular Recognition of Interleukins 2 and 4, and of Tumour Necrosis Factor‐α in Biological Samples
Authors: Cioates Negut Catalina , Stefan‐van Staden Raluca‐Ioana , Sfirloaga Paula
Published: August 2022

Two 3D stochastic sensors based on single‐walled carbon nanotubes and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes decorated with gold nanoparticles and modified with 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis (pentafluorophenyl)‐21H,23H‐porphyrin iron (III) chloride were constructed and utilized for the simultaneous molecular recognition of IL‐2, IL‐4, and TNF‐α in biological samples. The proposed sensors present low limits of quantification, high sensitivity, and wide concentration ranges. Recoveries values higher than 98.2 % of analytes from whole blood and brain tumour tissue samples were obtained.
Machine‐as‐a‐Service: Blockchain‐based management and maintenance of industrial appliances
Authors: Tran Viet Hoang , Lenssens Bernard , Kassab Ayham , Laks Alexis , Rivière Etienne , Rosinosky Guillaume , Sadre Ramin
Published: August 2022

Machine‐as‐a‐Service (MaaS) is an emerging service model for industrial appliances. With MaaS, machines are rented instead of being acquired, and their lifecycle is handled by an ecosystem of specialized actors, such as different independent maintenance companies certified for interventions on specific hardware. As the number of actors, clients, and providers involved in a MaaS ecosystem grows, maintaining mutual trust relationships between all involved parties and orchestrating MaaS operations in centralized fashion quickly becomes intractable. We present a blockchain‐based approach to providing MaaS in industrial settings where rented machines are equipped with IoT sensors, and where MaaS operations are orchestrated in a transparent, decentralized, and scalable way using a collection of smart contracts deployed over an infrastructure combining the Ethereum and InterPlanetary File System decentralized services. We detail the operations of MaaS, such as the lifecycle of management operations, and report on the performance of a prototype implementation deployed in the cloud.
Attitude, knowledge and perception of choice of cooking fuels: Evidence from two large communities in South‐east Nigeria
Authors: Okereke Chukwumerije , Onyeneke Robert Ugochukwu , Ijeoma Stanley , Fadero Tonubari , Ahanotu Kennedy , Anieze Ethelbert Elochukwu
Published: August 2022

There has been reported low adoption of cleaner cooking fuel technologies and systems in Nigeria. The literature documents that socio‐economic, cultural/behavioral, and environmental factors influence the decision to adopt alternative cooking fuels. However, there is a dearth of evidence on the most important factors influencing transition to clean cooking fuels in South‐east Nigeria. This study therefore analyzed the knowledge, attitude, behavior and practice of rural households' with regards to transition to cleaner cooking fuels particularly liquified petroleum gas (LPG). The study also analyzed the socio‐economic determinants of the transition to LPG in southeast Nigeria. Two communities in southeast Nigeria that benefitted from the Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) project funded by UKAID (DFID) participated in the study. We administered questionnaire to 407 household heads randomly selected from the two communities. This study used descriptive statistics, Likert scale analysis and binary probit model to analyze the data collected. The results show that while LPG was the most (51.84%) preferred choice of cooking fuel, only 0.74% of the households in practice actually used LPG for cooking. The main reason for the very low use of LPG was high cost of LPG and its accessories. The study also revealed that gender, education, household size, membership of cooperative societies, were the significant predictors of clean cooking transition. Therefore, policies and programs should be designed to increase women's access to quality education and encourage them to organize themselves in cooperatives to enhance their access to LPG.
The Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Embryo Model as a Tool to Assess Drinking Water Treatment Efficacy for Freshwater Impacted by Crude Oil Spill
Authors: Roy Monika A. , Mohan Aarthi , Karasik Yankel , Tobiason John E. , Reckhow David A. , Timme-Laragy Alicia R.
Published: August 2022

Traditional approaches toward evaluating oil spill mitigation effectiveness in drinking water supplies using analytical chemistry can overlook residual hydrocarbons and treatment byproducts of unknown toxicity. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) were used to address this limitation by evaluating the reduction in toxicity to fish exposed to laboratory solutions of dissolved crude oil constituents treated with 3 mg/L ozone (O3) with or without a peroxone-based advanced oxidation process using 0.5 M H2O2/M O3 or 1 M H2O2/M O3. Crude oil water mixtures (OWMs) were generated using three mixing protocols—orbital (OWM-Orb), rapid (OWM-Rap), and impeller (OWM-Imp) and contained dissolved total aromatic concentrations of 106–1019 µg/L. In a first experiment, embryos were exposed at 24 h post fertilization (hpf) to OWM-Orb or OWM-Rap diluted to 25%–50% of full-strength samples and in a second experiment, to untreated or treated OWM-Imp mixtures at 50% dilutions. Toxicity profiles included body length, pericardial area, and swim bladder inflation, and these varied depending on the OWM preparation, with OWM-Rap resulting in the most toxicity, followed by OWM-Imp and then OWM-Orb. Zebrafish exposed to a 50% dilution of OWM-Imp resulted in 6% shorter body length, 83% increased pericardial area, and no swim bladder inflation, but exposure to a 50% dilution of OWM-Imp treated with O3 alone or with 0.5 M H2O2/M O3 resulted in normal zebrafish development and average total aromatic destruction of 54%–57%. Additional aromatic removal occurred with O3 + 1 M H2O2/M O3 but without further attenuation of toxicity to zebrafish. This study demonstrates using zebrafish as an additional evaluation component for modeling the effectiveness of freshwater oil spill treatment methods. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2822–2834. © 2022 SETAC
How Does Carbon Dioxide–Induced Acidification Affect Postecdysial Exoskeletal Mineralization in the Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus)?
Authors: Soorya Yusra , Zou Enmin
Published: August 2022

Carbon dioxide (CO2) enrichment in seawater because of increased use of fossil fuels can possibly cause detrimental effects on the physiological processes of marine life, especially shell builders, due to CO2-induced ocean acidification. We investigated, for the first time, specifically the effect of CO2 enrichment on postecdysial shell mineralization in Crustacea using the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus, as the model crustacean. It was hypothesized that CO2 enrichment of seawater would adversely affect exoskeletal mineralization in the blue crab. We used two groups of postecdysial crabs, with one group exposed to seawater at a pH of 8.20 and the other group treated with CO2-acidified seawater with a pH of 7.80–7.90. After a period of 7 days, samples of exoskeleton and hemolymph were collected from the survivors. Enrichment was found to significantly increase exoskeletal magnesium content by 104% relative to control, whereas a statistically nonsignificant elevation of 31% in exoskeletal calcium was registered. Because CO2 treatment did not change the content of magnesium and calcium in the hemolymph, we postulate that increased exoskeletal mineralization in postecdysial blue crabs must stem from an increased influx of bicarbonate ions from the medium through the gill, to the hemolymph, and across the epidermis. In addition, the observed significant increase in the mass of exoskeleton following CO2 treatment must be at least partly accounted for by enhanced postmolt carbonate salt deposition to the shell. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2950–2954. © 2022 SETAC
Diagenetic controls on the reservoir quality of Neogene sandstones in the offshore area of the Bengal Basin, Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman M. Julleh Jalalur , Mutti Maria , Ma Ming , Chen Guojun , Akhter Waheda , Akter Shirin , Hossain Md. Sakawat , Khan Md. Rabiul Awal
Published: August 2022

The Neogene sandstones offer hydrocarbon reservoirs in the offshore area of the Bay of Bengal (Bangladesh), but their reservoir quality is not well known. Understanding the impact of depositional and diagenetic controls on reservoir quality is crucial to hydrocarbon exploration and production in reservoir sandstones. This study aims to investigate the depositional and diagenetic controls on reservoir quality of the Neogene Surma Group from the Sangu Gas Field (the only offshore gas field), in the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh using a combination of petrographical, petrophysical, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope fitted with energy dispersive spectra and core analysis data. Diagenetic modifications to the sandstones include mechanical and ductile grain compaction followed by clay cementation (dominantly chlorite, illite–smectite and minor kaolinite), poikilotopic calcite cement and subordinate amounts of quartz cement, as well as partial dissolution of feldspars and lithic fragments. Sandstones with primary porosities ≥20% have average intergranular volume value of 33%, although permeability in most sections of the reservoir falls below 8–10 mD. There has also been localized creation of secondary porosity due to dissolution. The average intergranular porosity lost by compaction is 14% (ranges from 3% to 37%), and the average porosity lost by cementation is 10% (ranges from 3% to 37%). This study shows that the reservoir quality is predominantly controlled by depositional environment (ductile grain supply, clay content), a diagenetic processes (compaction followed by clay cement and early to intermediate poikilotopic calcite cement) and will provide insights into the reservoir quality evaluation in the offshore areas of the Bengal Basin.