bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of juvenile salmon and forage fishes in nearshore kelp forests
Authors: Shaffer Anne , Gross Justin , Black Morgan , Kalagher Amelia , Juanes Francis
Published: May 2023

North‐east Pacific juvenile salmon and forage fishes, including the endangered salmon species Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch), chum (Oncorhynchus keta), and pink (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha), and the forage fishes species of Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi), surf smelt (Hypomesus pretiosus), and sand lance (Ammodytes hexapterus), utilize kelp environments. Many details of the kelp forest ecosystem function for these fishes are lacking.

Kelp forests, salmon, and forage fishes are declining precipitously as the global climate shifts and developments along coastal shorelines expand. It is therefore essential to understand kelp forest function for these species.

Analysis of 7 years of snorkelling survey videos indicates that both forage fishes and salmon use kelp forests throughout the outmigration season, and that their interactions occur in small and large groups, primarily along the outer edge of kelp beds. Over the course of outmigration, juvenile Chinook and coho salmon encounter sand lance first, followed by smelt and herring. The majority of interactions are intermingling, in which a subset proceed to predation, primarily on herring.

It is important to develop and implement specific fishery and habitat conservation measures to preserve and restore these functions. Long‐term research has shown that intact, conserved nearshore habitats function better ecologically than restored habitats, and individual kelp forests can function differently for forage fishes and salmon. Therefore, conservation plans should be developed to conserve wild kelp forests which are documented to provide ecosystem function for salmon and forage fishes, by protecting them from various development impacts, including dredging, filling, and water‐quality decline.

Coastal restoration is often only successful when ecosystem‐limiting factors that result in a loss of habitat are resolved. Kelp forest restoration, therefore, should be prioritized for regions of known high historical kelp forest importance, with restoration actions focused on correcting the limiting factors that caused loss and/or degradation.
Developing 3D models using photogrammetry for virtual reality training in anatomy
Authors: Krause Kayla J. , Mullins Drew D. , Kist Madison N. , Goldman Evan M.
Published: May 2023

Virtual reality (VR) is an increasingly available resource with numerous applications to medical education, and as a teaching tool has been widely validated in the literature. Photogrammetry, the process of overlapping two‐dimensional (2D) photographic images of three‐dimensional (3D) objects to create a 3D image or “model,” can be used in conjunction with VR to create pedagogically sound learning modules for anatomy education. However, to date, there has not been a detailed description of the process of developing and implementing an in‐house VR tool to supplement anatomy instruction. In this article, we examine the methods, benefits, and challenges of using photogrammetry to implement a VR classroom that capitalizes on the strengths of a traditional body donor‐based course and the unique strengths of VR. Using off‐the‐shelf equipment, developing VR content and a VR curriculum is both feasible and approachable for medical educators.
Resilience Analysis and Emergency Response Evaluation for Drinking Water Systems
Authors: Chu‐Ketterer Lucinda‐Joi , Platten William E. , Bolenbaugh Sarah , Haxton Terranna
Published: May 2023

Key Takeaways

Modeling tools can simulate possible disasters to water distribution systems, including pipe breaks, power outages, and changes to water source availability.

Resilience analysis can help water utilities compare emergency response strategies for disasters that could affect their water distribution systems.

Socioeconomic and environmental factors are useful to identify priority areas within a water distribution system to improve equitable resilience.
Cobalt Nickel Bimetallic Nanocatalyst Supported on g‐C3N4 for Selective Hydrogenation of α,β‐Unsaturated Carbonyls and Nitroarenes
Authors: Tripathi Vijay , Linga Reddy Panyala , Hande Pankaj E. , Vishwakarma Dharmendra S. , Fartade Dipak J. , Panchakarla Leela S. , Gharpure Santosh J.
Published: May 2023

Designed CoNi bimetallic catalysts on various supports were synthesized and tested for selective hydrogenation reactions. Amongst these, the newly developed CoNi@gC3N4 nanocatalyst demonstrated a unique reactivity profile. It was found to be most effective for selective hydrogenation of various chalcone derivatives and nitroarenes in the presence of other reducible functional groups such as halo, carbonyl, benzyl ether, cyclopropane, and isolated alkenes. The prepared bimetallic catalyst has advantages over the reported methods in terms of catalytic activity under mild conditions, selectivity, and reusability. The catalyst CoNi@gC3N4 has ability to selectively reduce nitro functional group to amine and allows formation of quinolines.
Co‐catalyzed Selective syn‐Hydrosilylation of Internal Alkynes
Authors: Stachowiak‐Dłużyńska Hanna , Kuciński Krzysztof , Wyrzykiewicz Bożena , Kempe Rhett , Hreczycho Grzegorz
Published: May 2023

Vinylsilanes are highly appealing and convenient chemical derivatives, as evidenced by the increasing number of synthetic transformations utilizing this class of compounds. Herein, a new comprehensive cobalt‐catalyzed procedure has been developed enabling selective hydrosilylation of internal aryl‐, alkyl‐, and silylalkynes. Cobalt complexes bearing triazine‐based PNP pincer‐type ligands provide exclusive syn‐addition of primary as well as secondary silanes to C≡C bonds. As a result, (E)‐silylalkenes and vicinal disilylalkenes were effectively obtained with excellent stereoselectivity and regioselectivity. Unlike several TM‐catalyzed procedures, no external additives were required since hydrosilanes act as both substrates and activators.
Recent Progress in Cold Utilization of Liquefied Natural Gas
Authors: Shingan Bhalchandra , Parthasarthy Vijay
Published: May 2023

Liquefaction of natural gas occurs at –162 °C and atmospheric pressure for transporting it over long distances. In the customer's segment, the liquefied natural gas is regasified before distribution. Around 830 kJ kg−1 energy is required for the production of liquefied natural gas and is often saved as cold energy, which can be reused by regasification terminals. Hence, for the past few years, cold energy utilization has been an important topic of research in the energy sector. The different techniques to utilize cold energy for power generation, air fractionation, extraction of natural gas liquids, refrigeration systems, desalination, and dry ice manufacturing are reviewed and discussed. Applying the cold utilization of LNG technique in these systems can help to improve efficiency and decrease operating costs effectively.
Examining the effect of Medicaid expansion on early detection of head and neck cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx by HPV‐type and generosity of dental benefits
Authors: Semprini Jason
Published: May 2023

Background

Over a decade of evidence supports the claim that increased access to insurance through Medicaid expansions improves early detection of cancer. Yet, evidence linking Medicaid expansions to early detection of head and neck cancers (HNC) of the oral cavity and pharynx, specifically, may be limited by the lack of attention to Human Papillomavirus (HPV) etiology, generosity of dental coverage, and valid inference analyzing state cancer registry data.

Aims

This study reexamined the effect of Medicaid expansion on early detection of HPV+/− HNC in states offering extensive dental benefits.

Materials and Methods

Specialized data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program was analyzed to account for, previously unmeasurable, differential detection patterns of HNCs associated with HPV. Then, to identify the effect of increasing Medicaid eligibility on staging patterns in states offering extensive benefits amidst potentially non‐common trends between states, a “Triple Differences” design identifies the differential effect of Medicaid Expansion (with dental coverage) on HPV‐negative HNCs relative to the change in HPV‐positive HNCs. For valid inference analyzing a small number of state clusters (12) in cancer registry data, each regression model applies a Wild Cluster Bootstrap.

Results

Expanding Medicaid eligibility was found to be associated with a decrease in the proportion of distant‐stage diagnoses of HPV(−) HNCs, but only among states which increased Medicaid dental generosity at the time of Medicaid expansion.

Conclusions

These results suggest that adding extensive Medicaid dental benefits was the primary mechanism impacting HNC detection. This study highlights the potential positive spillover effects of policies which increase access to public dental coverage for low‐income adults, while also showing the limitation of access to dental services for improving early detection of HPV+ HNCs.
Gene regulatory accelerators on cloud FPGA
Authors: Costa Penha Jeronimo , Bragança Lucas , Canesche Michael , Ribeiro Dener , Nacif José Augusto M. , Ferreira Ricardo S.
Published: May 2023

Gene regulatory networks (GRN) are dynamic models in time and space. These models are used to predict diseases and in drugs research. GRN models are discrete, and Boolean graphs can efficiently represent them. However, GRN algorithms explore a large solution space with high computational complexity. This work proposes efficient FPGA‐based accelerators to implement two GRN algorithms: attractor computation and Derrida plot. Nevertheless, FPGA accelerator design and deployment are still a challenge. This work presents an accelerator design framework for AWS Amazon FPGA cloud. The framework simplifies the software (SW) and hardware (HW) generation for GRN accelerators. The user provides a high‐level model for the Boolean GRN, and our tool automatically creates AWS‐ready‐to‐deploy software and hardware components. For the attractor and the Derrida plot computation, the proposed FPGA accelerators are on average and faster than a V100 GPU.
Recovery marketing for conflict sensitive destination: Stakeholders perspective on tourism revival in Kashmir Valley (India)
Authors: Najar Ashaq Hussain , Kour Parvinder , Jasrotia Aruditya
Published: May 2023

This study aims to examine the destination recovery procedures through the stakeholders' lens. It focuses on identifying real‐time implications and opportunities for destination marketing authorities toward tourism revival. This paper utilized a thematic analysis with data sourced through interviews with stakeholders in the tourism industry resulting in the emergence of various subcategories, which were further grouped into six final themes. These themes include the determination and confidence of stakeholders, need for a peaceful environment, recovery from negative media propaganda, tourist awareness, and online marketing to persuade people who have already visited the destination.
Photocatalytic Synthesis of Ultrafine Pt Electrocatalysts with High Stability Using TiO2‐Decorated N‐Doped Carbon as Composite Support
Authors: Shen Le , Wang Zemei , Gong Qi , Zhang Yanrong , Wang Jingyu
Published: May 2023

Commercial Pt/C (Com. Pt/C) electrocatalysts are considered optimal for oxygen reduction and hydrogen evolution reactions (ORR and HER). However, their high Pt content and poor stability restrict their large‐scale application. In this study, photocatalytic synthesis was used to reduce ultrafine Pt nanoparticles in‐situ on a composite support of TiO2‐decorated nitrogen‐doped carbon (TiO2−NC). The nitrogen‐doped carbon had a large surface area and electronic effects that ensured the uniform dispersion of TiO2 nanoparticles to form a highly photoactive and stable support. TiO2−NC served as a composite support that enhanced the dispersibility and stability of ultrafine Pt electrocatalyst, owing to the presence of N sites and the strong metal‐support interaction. Relative to Com. Pt/C, the as‐obtained Pt/TiO2−NC had positive shifts of 44 and 10 mV in the ORR half‐wave potential and HER overpotential at −10 mA cm−2, respectively. After an accelerated durability test, Pt/TiO2−NC had lower losses in electrochemical specific area (0.7 %) and electrocatalytic activity (0 mV shift) than Com. Pt/C (25.6 %, 22 mV shift). These results indicate that the developed strategy enabled the facile synthesis and stabilization of ultrafine Pt nanoparticles, which improved the utilization efficiency and long‐term stability of Pt‐based electrocatalysts.
Connecting tiger (Panthera tigris) populations in Nepal: Identification of corridors among tiger‐bearing protected areas
Authors: Bhatt Tek Raj , Castley J. Guy , Sims‐Castley Rebecca , Baral Hem Sagar , Chauvenet Alienor L. M.
Published: May 2023

Habitat fragmentation and isolation threaten the survival of several wide‐ranging species, such as tigers, through increased risk from diseases, disasters, climate change, and genetic depression. Identification of the habitat most likely to achieve connectivity among protected areas is vital for the long‐term persistence of tigers. We aimed to improve the mapping of potential transfrontier protected area corridors for tigers by connecting sites within the Terai Arc Landscape in Nepal and to those in India, highlighting targeted conservation actions needed along these corridors to maintain long‐term connectivity. We used least‐cost corridor modeling and circuit theory to identify potential corridors and bottlenecks in the study area. The landscape's resistance to tigers' movement was gathered from expert opinions to inform corridor modeling. We identified nine potential tiger corridors in the Terai Arc Landscape—Nepal that aligned strongly with the remaining intact habitats of the Siwalik landscape, which could facilitate tiger movement. Banke‐Bardia and Chitwan‐Parsa‐Valimiki complexes and Lagga‐Bhagga and Khata corridors were identified as high‐priority conservation cores and corridors. While our model exhibited congruence with most established corridors in the landscape, it has identified the need to enhance existing corridors to improve landscape connectivity. Several pinch points posing an increased risk to connectivity were identified. Most of these were located near the protected area boundaries and along the Nepal–India border. The Siwalik landscape holds the key to long‐term connectivity in the study area; however, immediate conservation attention is needed, particularly at pinch points, to secure this connectivity for tigers. Validation of identified corridors through empirical research and their conservation is a priority.
Silencing of tumoral carbohydrate sulfotransferase 15 reactivates lymph node pancreatic cancer T cells in mice
Authors: Ye Juanjuan , Suizu Futoshi , Yamakawa Keiko , Mukai Yuri , Kato Motohiko , Yoneyama Hiroyuki , Yahagi Naohisa , Matsuda Yoko
Published: May 2023

Limited intratumoral T‐cell infiltration in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an obstacle to immunotherapy, yet the efficient approach to enhance tumor‐infiltrating T cells is not fully established. Here, we show that tumor‐specific knockdown of carbohydrate sulfotransferase 15 (CHST15), a tumor stromal proteoglycan‐synthetic enzyme, suppresses tumor growth in a T‐cell‐dependent manner in a murine model of PDAC. Silencing of tumoral CHST15 unexpectedly expanded CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in tumor draining LN (TDLN), leading to accelerated accumulation of EdU+ proliferating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and granzyme B+ CD8+ T cells in the tumor. RNA expression analysis indicated that tumoral CHST15 knockdown (KD) downregulated matrix remodeling‐related genes, while upregulated anti‐tumor T‐cell activity‐related genes in both tumor and TDLN. CHST15 KD significantly diminished intratumoral and TDLN Ly6C/G+ myeloid‐derived suppressor cells prior to TDLN T‐cell expansion, suggesting that tumoral CHST15 remotely regulated myeloid‐derived suppressor cell mediated T‐cell suppression in the TDLN. Our findings illustrate a novel immunotherapeutic potential of tumoral CHST15 blockage by reactivating T cells in immune suppressive TDLN of PDAC.
Reducing air pollution through smart energy management in industrial clusters of India
Authors: Dube Sanjay
Published: May 2023

Smart energy management, along with clean technologies and advanced pollution control measures has proven to be an effective strategy for reducing air pollution in both developed and transitioning economies and holds significant potential to reduce emissions from industries and power plants—two of the major sources of air pollution in many of India's urban areas.

This manuscript presents the results from a project and provides a critical proof of concept to show that developing country cities can achieve significant, measurable reductions in air pollution, Volatile Organic Compound emissions and greenhouse gas emissions through investing in smart energy management and advance control technologies. Achieving this goal, however, requires addressing two key challenges: (1) lack of a demonstrated link between smart energy management and air quality improvements in India; and (2) the need to scale up development, financing, and implementation of smart energy solutions, including energy efficiency and clean technology measures that can help address air pollution in industrialized urban areas, critically polluted areas by offsetting fossil fuel use for diesel‐ and coal‐fired electricity generation.
A bi‐level programming model and differential evolution for optimizing offshore wind farm layout
Authors: Song Erping
Published: May 2023

The optimization of offshore wind farms is mainly performed through the deployment of wind farms and submarine cables to maximize power output and minimize cable costs. However, the above results are affected by the wake effect, equipment layout, and the cost of cables. To effectively complete the deployment of wind turbines and submarine cable lines, first, a bi‐level constrained optimization model based on maximum profit and the shortest route of cable is proposed in this paper; then, a differential evolution and improved Prim algorithm (IPADE) are used to optimize the upper‐ and lower‐level objective function, respectively. Moreover, the fitness values are used to divide the population, and a surrogate model is used to evaluate approximate fitness values for the sub‐population with poor performance; the best individual is selected as the offspring individual according to the approximate fitness values. Next, a clustering method is used to divide the position of the wind farm, and a Prim algorithm based on roulette wheel selection is designed to deploy submarine cables of every subwind farm. Finally, the proposed algorithm is compared with five other popular algorithms under the two wind conditions. The simulation experimental results show that algorithm IPADE performs better than other algorithms in terms of the power output, profit, and the length of cables.
The perfect bail‐in: Financing without banks using peer‐to‐peer lending
Authors: Polyzos Efstathios , Samitas Aristeidis , Rubbaniy Ghulame
Published: May 2023

We explore the potential outcomes for financial stability when using peer‐to‐peer lenders to finance economic activity. Combining Random Regression Forests, a machine‐learning process, with an agent‐based model, we perform simulations on artificial economies with various degrees of adoption of peer‐to‐peer lending. We find that as peer‐to‐peer lenders proliferate, there is increased financial instability, lower GDP and higher unemployment. On the other hand, peer‐to‐peer lending increases the total volume of loans given out but demonstrates a preference towards consumer loans (over corporate loans), which has a negative effect in the long run. Finally, introducing peer‐to‐peer lenders increases the access of the unbanked to services which conventional banking is not able to offer within the extant regulatory framework. Our results can help policymakers as they address the issue of regulation in the peer‐to‐peer finance industry.
Labour reallocation and unemployment fluctuations: A tale of two tails
Authors: Bakas Dimitrios , Panagiotidis Theodore , Pelloni Gianluigi
Published: May 2023

This paper examines the sectoral shifts hypothesis for the US regional labour market using a quantile panel framework. We use a monthly panel dataset that spans over 1990–2016 for the 48 US states and employ a dynamic quantile panel data regression approach to investigate the asymmetric nature of the relationship between sectoral labour reallocation and unemployment fluctuations. The empirical evidence suggests that the impact of the employment dispersion index is relatively small and insignificant for lower levels of unemployment but becomes positive and highly significant for higher rates. Our findings bear out the asymmetry of reallocation disturbances for the US labour market.
Preparing learners to ACT as change agents: Early implementation of leadership curricula in dental education
Authors: Kornegay Elizabeth C , Hayon Ellen , Gisler Susan , Bell Gerald , Wilder Rebecca , Stewart Shadoe , Quinonez Rocio B.
Published: May 2023

Objective

Graduates of dental schools are expected to become leaders in their practices, communities, and profession. Yet, formal leadership training is underutilized in U.S. dental school curricula to help learners develop these skills. The objective of this study was to understand third‐ and fourth‐year dental students’ perceptions of their initial semester of Bell Leadership Institute training as part of the novel Advocate, Clinician, Thinker curriculum at the UNC Adams School of Dentistry.

Methods

Focus groups of 52 third‐ and fourth‐year dental students were conducted after the completion of the first semester of leadership seminars. Session notes were transcribed, and qualitative analysis was performed to help elucidate student perceptions of the value and pertinence of the leadership seminars.

Results

Participants valued the opportunities to self‐reflect, develop listening skills, and learn strategies to address and mitigate conflict through the leadership seminars. Perceptions of seminar length, frequency, and structure were varied. Participants also noted that explicit connections and applications of leadership topics to the field of dentistry would improve the quality of the programing. Feedback from 52 focus group participants suggests a general appreciation for curriculum‐integrated leadership training.

Conclusion

Early implementation of seminar‐style leadership training in dental school curricula appears to be a productive avenue for developing critical leadership skills in dental school graduates.
Calcium oxalate crystal macropattern and its usefulness in the taxonomy of Baccharis (Asteraceae)
Authors: Raeski Paola Aparecida , Heiden Gustavo , Novatski Andressa , Raman Vijayasankar , Khan Ikhlas Ahmed , Manfron Jane
Published: May 2023

This study provides a comprehensive account of the various types of calcium oxalate crystals found in the genus Baccharis and assesses the exceptional value of crystal macropatterns for the taxonomy of the genus. The morphotype, occurrence, and chemical composition of the crystals found in the stems and leaves are studied. The 44 species included in this study were selected based on a broad phylogeny‐based sampling covering seven subgenera and 31 sections. These species were chosen to represent all the main phylogenetic lineages of Baccharis; thus, the sampling also represents a comprehensive coverage concerning evolutionary significance for such a large and environmentally and economically important plant group. The samples were analyzed by light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). Several morphotypes of crystals, including druses, crystal sand, styloids and prisms, were present. Based on their chemical composition, the crystals were classified as pure calcium oxalate, mixtures of oxalates and sulfates, and mixtures of oxalates, sulfates, and silica. The crystal macropatterns observed in this study aid in species identification and provide novel data for the taxonomy of Baccharis.

Research Highlights

Most species of Baccharis have a specific crystalline pattern. Each species produces a crystal morphotype or a set of morphotypes specific to it. The crystals observed are formed by calcium oxalate.
In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Ultrasound‐Triggered Release From Novel Spinal Device
Authors: Delaney Lauren J. , Isguven Selin , Hilliard Rachel , Lacerda Quezia , Oeffinger Brian E. , Machado Priscilla , Schaer Thomas P. , Hickok Noreen J. , Kurtz Steven M. , Forsberg Flemming
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Bacterial infection following spinal fusion is a major clinical concern with up to 20% incidence. An ultrasound‐triggered bulk‐release system to combat postsurgical bacterial survival was designed and evaluated.

Methods

Polylactic acid (PLA) clips were loaded with vancomycin (VAN) and microbubbles (Sonazoid, GE HealthCare) in vitro. Stability was determined over 14 days. VAN‐loaded clips were submerged in water and insonated using a Logiq E10 scanner (GE HealthCare) with a curvilinear C6 probe. Doppler‐induced VAN release was quantified using spectrophotometry. For in vivo testing, clips were loaded with methylene blue (MeB) solution and Sonazoid. These clips were implanted into a rabbit along the spine at L2 and L5, as well as a pig at L1 and L3, then insonated in Doppler mode using the C6 probe.

Results

Sonazoid microbubbles were better preserved when incubated in VAN compared with distilled water at 4°C, 25°C, and 37°C incubation temperatures (P = .0131). Contrast enhancement was observed from both solutions when incubated at 4°C storage conditions. Insonated clips achieved average cumulative VAN release of 101.8 ± 2.8% (81.4 ± 2.8 mg) after 72 hours. Uninsonated clips had only 0.3 ± 0.1% (0.3 ± 0.1 mg) average cumulative VAN release (P < .0001). Clips retrieved from the rabbit did not rupture with insonation nor produce MeB staining of surrounding tissues. In the pig, the PLA film was visibly ruptured and MeB tissue was observed following insonation, whereas the uninsonated clip was intact.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate ultrasound‐triggered release of an encapsulated prophylactic solution and provide an important proof‐of‐concept for continuing large animal evaluations for translational merit.
BRIDGEBUILDING FOR A NEW VISION OF GOVERNMENT
Authors: Eggers William D. , Kettl Donald F.
Published: May 2023

The authors, who each have significant experience “improving and monitoring government,” explain their concept of “Bridgebuilders,” people who “transform governance: from hierarchy to networks, from authority to collaboration, from process to mission, and from fuzzy responsibility to a laser‐like focus on results.” They note that in order for government to be more effective and solve problems, they can’t do it alone, that “every effective solution requires the skills of people in many organizations.” They identify ten keys to solutions, which in their words are 1. Knock down barriers; 2. Seek mutual advantage; 3. Nurture private partners; 4. Build trustworthy networks; 5. Grow catalytic government; 6. Focus on outcomes; 7. Make data the language; 8. Redefine accountability; 9. Cultivate cross‐boundary leaders; 10. Make the exceptional routine. The article “focuses on nurturing private partners to help conduct the public’s business.” The authors detail the story of Alan Graham, who founded the Austin, Texas‐based nonprofit Mobile Loaves & Fishes, in 1984. This relates to strategies outlined in the article such as “Convene the important players,” “Rely on third‐party entities,” “Provide greater regulatory flexibility,” “Encourage the free flow of ideas between sectors,” and “Facilitate the cross‐sector pursuit of public purpose.”
FROM PRISON TO PRODUCTIVITY: WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE FORMERLY INCARCERATED PEOPLE
Authors: Swift Melissa
Published: May 2023

The author, who leads Transformation Solutions for Mercer US and Canada, discusses a timely and potentially controversial topic: hiring formerly incarcerated people, a group that has a disproportionately high unemployment rate. However, she points out that structural elements in the U.S. economy mean that organizations will continue to search for qualified workers: “Labor force participation remains below pre‐pandemic levels; the labor force is expected to grow at a far slower rate than in previous decades.” She points to hiring research and reporting at Johns Hopkins Medicine and the Illinois Prison Project, and claims that formerly incarcerated people are not risky hires, and that they are more loyal employees with unique talents. However, it is not that simple: “hiring and retaining this group is far more complicated than simply focusing on them.” She offers hiring strategies such as, “To open up your organization to hire more formerly incarcerated people, you need to also figure out the hidden blockers – what do you assume is needed for roles on your team that might not be needed (but doesn’t formally appear on the job description)?” In addition, “you have to ensure that the very mechanics of the process of getting hired don’t exclude them (even if they technically qualify for the role).”
Sodium Alginate Doped with Magnesium Perchlorate as Solid Biopolymer Electrolytes for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Rajendran Tamilisai , Pachagoundanpalayam Palanisamy Nachimuthu , Subramanian Selvasekarapandian , Manoharan Vengadesh Krishna
Published: May 2023

This paper deals with development and characterization of the solid biopolymer electrolyte using Sodium alginate as the host biopolymer and magnesium perchlorate used as a doping salt. Membranes are prepared via solution casting technique. Several characterization techniques, such as X‐ray and diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, AC impedance spectroscopy, linear sweep voltammetry, and transference number measurement are performed to characterize the prepared biopolymer membrane. The highest ionic conductivity 2.41 × 10−3 S cm−1 is observed for prepared solid biopolymer electrolyte contains 40:60 m wt% of NaAlg:Mg(ClO4)2. The electrochemical stability of highest ion conducting biopolymer membrane is observed at 3.62 V. A primary magnesium battery is constructed using the highest ionic conducting biopolymer membrane and the open circuit voltage of the fabricated magnesium battery is found to be 2.0 V.
Sobolev's inequality in Musielak–Orlicz–Morrey spaces of an integral form
Authors: Ohno Takao , Shimomura Tetsu
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we are concerned with Sobolev's inequality for variable Riesz potentials of functions f in Musielak–Orlicz–Morrey spaces of an integral form over metric measure spaces. As an application and example, we give Sobolev's inequality for double‐phase functionals , where and satisfy log‐Hölder conditions and is non‐negative, bounded and Hölder continuous of order . Further, we obtain the result for Sobolev functions.
Semi‐Solid Supramolecular Ionic Network Electrolytes Formed by Zwitterionic Liquids and Polyoxometalate Nanoclusters for High Proton Conduction
Authors: Li Xiang , Chai Shengchao , Zhai Liang , Guo Haikun , He Haibo , Li Haibin , Wu Lixin , Li Haolong
Published: May 2023

Flexible electrolytes with solid self‐supporting properties are highly desired in the fields of energy and electronics. However, traditional flexible electrolytes prepared by doping ionic liquids or salt solutions into a polymer matrix pose a risk of liquid component leakage during device operation. In this work, the development of supramolecular ionic network electrolytes using polyoxometalate nanoclusters as supramolecular crosslinkers to solidify bola‐type zwitterionic liquids is reported. The resulting self‐supporting electrolytes possess semi‐solid features and show a high proton conductivity of 8.2 × 10−4 S cm−1 at low humidity (RH = 30%). Additionally, the electrolytes exhibit a typical plateau region in rheological tests, indicating that their dynamic network structures can contribute mechanical behavior similar to the entangled networks in covalent polymer materials. This work introduces a new paradigm for designing flexible solid electrolytes and expands the concept of reticular chemistry to noncrystalline systems.
Nonstoichiometric Direct Arylation Polymerization of Octafluorobiphenyl with 2,7‐Diiodofluorene for Regulating CH Terminals of π‐Conjugated Polymer
Authors: Takimoto Lisa , Goto Taiki , Chen Junhui , Kuwabara Junpei , Kanbara Takaki
Published: May 2023

Nonstoichiometric direct arylation polycondensation of 2,2′,3,3′,5,5′,6,6′‐octafluorobiphenyl with excess of 2,7‐diiodo‐9,9‐dioctyl‐9H‐fluorene is demonstrated. Pd/Ag dual‐catalyst system under water/2‐methyltetrahydrofuran biphasic conditions enables direct arylation under mild conditions and promotes the intramolecular transfer of a Pd catalyst walking through the fluorene moiety. The nonstoichiometric direct arylation polycondensation under the optimized reaction conditions produces the corresponding π‐conjugated polymer with a high molecular weight and terminal octafluorobiphenyl units at both ends.
Merger incentives in an international oligopoly composed of Kantian optimization firms with differentiated goods
Authors: Nakamura Yasuhiko
Published: May 2023

This paper revisits horizontal mergers in an international oligopoly with differentiated goods under the segmented market assumption. In particular, we focus on an industry composed of firms that engage in their Kantian optimization. Strikingly from the case of each firm's Nashian optimization, we show that a duopoly with two international mergers can be uniquely observed in equilibrium except for a full monopoly, and the highest total social welfare can be achieved in its equilibrium market structure. In addition, we consider the managerial delegation cases from the viewpoints of two types of each firm's Kantian optimization.
Needs of persons living withALSat home and their family caregivers: A scoping review
Authors: Young Heather M. , Kilaberia Tina R. , Whitney Robin , Link Benjamin M. , Bell Janice F. , Tonkikh Orly , Famula Jessica , Oskarsson Björn
Published: May 2023

Introduction/Aims

Most persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) live at home with support of family caregivers, with escalating complexity of care over the trajectory of the disease requiring resources and support to mitigate negative physical, social, and emotional outcomes.

Methods

This scoping review identifies the home health/home care needs of persons with ALS and their caregivers as a basis for creating a home health medical standard. We used the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‐ScR) to examine studies describing home care needs published between 2011 and 2021.

Results

Our search yielded 481 articles, of which 44 were included with a total of 3592 (9–273) participants. Most studies used a cross‐sectional design and 20 (45%) were rated as high quality. We grouped the needs identified as emotional/psychological, assistive devices and technology, information and education, and human resources and professional services. Most studies demonstrated persistent unmet needs and that available interventions were helpful while needs generally were not met proactively, despite the predictable trajectory.

Discussion

This review describes biopsychosocial and equipment interventions over the trajectory of ALS with implications for anticipatory planning by clinicians, as well as policy for coverage of necessary services and supports. Interdisciplinary expert teams could develop consensus around needs across the trajectory and recommended services and supports. To make knowledge more accessible, encourage availability of services, and clarify the need for coverage of services, we aim to develop an expert consensus‐based ALS home health medical standard guidance document in collaboration with the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine.
Multi‐material topology optimization method for transient thermal structure with constraint on permissible temperatures
Authors: Li Shuai , Zhang Yongcun , Liu Shutian
Published: May 2023

Excessive temperature may lead material to performance degradation, ablation, and phase change. Thus, controlling the maximum temperature of used material within a safe range is of great significance to the safe operation of thermal structures. In this article, a density‐based multi‐material topology optimization method for transient thermal structures is proposed, in which the maximal temperature for each material is controlled not greater than its permissible temperature. In this method, a projection algorithm based on the PDE (partial differential equation) filter and Heaviside projection is set up and used to identify the domains occupied by each material. The maximal temperature of each specific material occupying domain is approximately expressed by the condensed integrals in the time and space domains. The permissible temperature constraint is satisfied by controlling the condensed integrals not great than a specific threshold value (depending on the corresponding material's permissible temperature). Several examples illustrate that the permissible temperature plays an important role in the selection and the distribution scheme of the candidate materials for the design of multi‐material thermal structures. The proposed method can effectively control the maximal temperature of each material within its constraint range, and achieve the rational design for multi‐material thermal structures. In addition, different thermal loading time may also lead to different material selection of structure. This work has potential applications in the lightweight design of thermal insulation structures.
Hybrid GO/TiO2 nanoparticles reinforced NaAlg/PVA blend: Nanocomposites for high‐performance energy storage devices
Authors: Alsalmah Hessa A. , Almehmadi Samar J. , Farea M. O. , Alsulami Qana A. , Albalawi Hind , Rajeh A.
Published: May 2023

In this study, novel flexible polymer nanocomposite films formed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), sodium alginate (NaAlg), titanium dioxide (TiO2) and graphene oxide (GO) as nanofiller are fabricated by using casting method. The PVA/NaAlg‐GO/TiO2 nanocomposite films are characterized using various techniques. The synergistic effects of GO/TiO2 on the electrical, dielectric properties, and the energy density efficiency of PVA/NaAlg blend have been investigated in the range of frequency from 10 Hz to 7 MHz. The XRD data showed that the intensity of the PVA/NaAlg‐GO/TiO2 nanocomposites films decrease with nanofiller concentration. The FTIR spectroscopy provides proof that the complex formed. The optical studies were carried out using UV–Vis. spectroscopy. The energy bandgap values of PVA/NaAlg‐GO/TiO2 nanocomposite films were calculated using Tauc's plot. It is shown that the host matrix's Eg value decreases from 4.97 to 4.29 eV for direct transitions and from 4.37 to 2.29 eV for indirect transitions. The electrical and dielectric parameters of the nanocomposites showed that the maximum electrical properties were observed for the composite with 8 wt% loading of GO/TiO2. The σdc increased from 2.45 × 10−9 to 5.02 × 10−7 S cm−1. In addition, frequency exponent S decreased from 0.82 to 0.54. These findings demonstrated that there are significant modifications in the fabricated samples, which open the road for utilizing the PVA/NaAlg‐GO/TiO2 nanocomposite as flexible films for solar cells and electrical energy storage applications.
Are children with sickle cell disease at particular risk from the harmful effects of air pollution? Evidence from a large, urban/peri‐urban cohort
Authors: George Paul E. , Maillis Alexander , Zhu Yijing , Liu Yang , Lane Peter A. , Lam Wilbur , Lipscomb Joseph , Ebelt Stefanie
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Pathophysiologic pathways of sickle cell disease (SCD) and air pollution involve inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial damage. It is therefore plausible that children with SCD are especially prone to air pollution's harmful effects.

Methods

Patient data were collected from a single‐center, urban/peri‐urban cohort of children with confirmed SCD. Daily ambient concentrations of particulate matter (PM2.5) were collected via satellite‐derived remote‐sensing technology, and carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone from local monitoring stations. We used multivariable regression to quantify associations of pollutant levels and daily counts of emergency department (ED) visits, accounting for weather and time trends. For comparison, we quantified the associations of pollutant levels with daily all‐patient (non‐SCD) ED visits to our center.

Results

From 2010 to 2018, there were 17,731 ED visits by 1740 children with SCD (64.8% HbSS/HbSβ0). Vaso‐occlusive events (57.8%), respiratory illness (17.1%), and fever (16.1%) were the most common visit diagnoses. Higher 3‐day (lags 0–2) rolling mean PM2.5 and CO levels were associated with daily ED visits among those with SCD (PM2.5 incident rate ratio [IRR] 1.051 [95% confidence interval: 1.010–1.094] per 9.4 μg/m3 increase; CO 1.088 [1.045–1.132] per 0.5 ppm). NO2 showed positive associations in secondary analyses; ozone levels were not associated with ED visits. The comparison, all‐patient ED visit analyses showed lower IRR for all pollutants.

Conclusions

Our results suggest short‐term air pollution levels as triggers for SCD events and that children with SCD may be more vulnerable to air pollution than those without SCD. Targeted pollution‐avoidance strategies could have significant clinical benefits in this population.
A case series of diabetic ketoacidosis associated with SGLT2 inhibitors
Authors: Zac‐Varghese Sagen , Mathew Sunitha , Go Daniel , Winocour Peter
Published: May 2023

Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are increasingly initiated as treatment for type 2 diabetes due to favourable cardiorenal characteristics. However, studies have identified an increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

We carried out a retrospective, case‐based study at East and North Herts NHS Trust between February 2018 and December 2020. Fifteen cases of SGLT2i associated DKA were identified in people with presumed type 2 diabetes; 33.3% were classed as euglycaemic DKA with a blood glucose of <11mmol/L. All cases were associated with a significant precipitating factor including diarrhoea, vomiting, reduced oral intake and sepsis. One case was related to COVID‐19. Two people were subsequently found to have raised islet autoantibodies suggesting type 1 diabetes or latent autoimmune diabetes in adults.

It is important that awareness of SGLT2i associated DKA is raised among users and health care practitioners, including the recognition of euglycaemic DKA. Sick day rules should be emphasised and reiterated at clinical encounters. Non‐specialists in primary care, oncology and in perioperative settings should be empowered to advocate for temporary withdrawal and there should be readier access to blood ketone monitoring when required. When SGLT2i associated DKA occurs, due consideration should be given to evaluate the diabetes classification and investigate the circumstances of the event. Copyright © 2023 John Wiley & Sons.
Ordered‐domain unfolding of thermophilic isolated β subunit ATP synthase
Authors: López‐Pérez Edgar , de Gómez‐Puyou Marietta Tuena , Nuñez Concepción José , Zapién Denise Martínez , Guardado Salomón Alas , Beltrán Hiram Isaac , Pérez‐Hernández Gerardo
Published: May 2023

The flexibility of the ATP synthase's β subunit promotes its role in the ATP synthase rotational mechanism, but its domains stability remains unknown. A reversible thermal unfolding of the isolated β subunit (Tβ) of the ATP synthase from Bacillus thermophilus PS3, tracked through circular dichroism and molecular dynamics, indicated that Tβ shape transits from an ellipsoid to a molten globule through an ordered unfolding of its domains, preserving the β‐sheet residual structure at high temperature. We determined that part of the stability origin of Tβ is due to a transversal hydrophobic array that crosses the β‐barrel formed at the N‐terminal domain and the Rossman fold of the nucleotide‐binding domain (NBD), while the helix bundle of the C‐terminal domain is the less stable due to the lack of hydrophobic residues, and thus the more flexible to trigger the rotational mechanism of the ATP synthase.
Tissue‐specific transcriptome analyses in Drosophila provide novel insights into the mode of action of the insecticide spinosad and the function of its target, nAChRα6
Authors: Martelli Felipe , Ravenscroft Thomas A. , Hutchison William , Batterham Philip
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

The insecticides spinosad and imidacloprid are neurotoxins with distinct modes of action. Both target nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), albeit different subunits. Spinosad is an allosteric modulator, that upon binding initiates endocytosis of its target, nAChRα6. Imidacloprid binding triggers excessive neuronal ion influx. Despite these differences, low‐dose effects converge downstream in the precipitation of oxidative stress and neurodegeneration.

RESULTS

Using RNA‐sequencing, we compared the transcriptional signatures of spinosad and imidacloprid, at low‐dose exposures. Both insecticides cause up‐regulation of glutathione S‐transferase and cytochrome P450 genes in the brain and down‐regulation in the fat body, whereas reduced expression of immune‐related genes is observed in both tissues. Spinosad shows unique impacts on genes involved in lysosomal function, protein folding, and reproduction. Co‐expression analyses revealed little to no correlation between genes affected by spinosad and nAChRα6 expressing neurons, but a positive correlation with glial cell markers. We also detected and experimentally confirmed nAChRα6 expression in fat body cells and male germline cells. This led us to uncover lysosomal dysfunction in the fat body following spinosad exposure, and a fitness cost in spinosad‐resistant (nAChRα6 null) males – oxidative stress in testes, and reduced fertility.

CONCLUSION

Spinosad and imidacloprid share transcriptional perturbations in immunity‐, energy homeostasis‐, and oxidative stress‐related genes. Low doses of other neurotoxic insecticides should be investigated for similar impacts. While target‐site spinosad resistance mutation has evolved in the field, this may have a fitness cost. Our findings demonstrate the power of tissue‐specific transcriptomics approach and the use of single‐cell transcriptome data. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.