bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of an Online Education Program on Physical Therapists' Confidence in Weight Management for People With Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Allison Kim , Jones Sarah , Hinman Rana S. , Briggs Andrew M. , Sumithran Priya , Quicke Jonathan , Holden Melanie , Chiavaroli Neville , Crofts Sam , George Elena , Foster Nadine , Bennell Kim
Published: December 2021

Objective

To evaluate effects of an online education program about weight management for osteoarthritis on physical therapists' self‐reported confidence in knowledge and skills in weight management and attitudes toward obesity.

Methods

In a 2‐group randomized controlled trial, 80 physical therapists (58 female physical therapists) were randomized to education or control groups. The theoretically informed and evidence‐informed online self‐directed training program covered biopsychosocial elements of obesity and weight management. The primary outcome was self‐reported confidence in knowledge in weight management using a customized validated tool (scale 14–70, higher scores indicating higher confidence) assessed at baseline and 6 weeks. Secondary measures included confidence in nutrition care, clinical skills in weight management, and weight stigma. Process measures evaluated participant experience. Differences in change between groups were compared using linear regression models adjusted for baseline scores and stratifying variables (clinical setting; confidence in weight management). Moderation analysis was performed using an interaction approach in a linear regression model and multivariable fractional polynomial interaction approach.

Results

A total of 79 participants (99%) completed outcome measures at 6 weeks. The education group demonstrated greater improvement in confidence in knowledge than the control group (adjusted mean difference 22.6 units, 95% confidence interval 19.6, 25.5). Greater improvement in knowledge was associated with lower baseline values (interaction P = 0.002). Secondary outcomes showed greater improvements in confidence in skills and nutrition care and in weight stigma domains favoring the education group. Over 90% of participants would recommend the program to peers.

Conclusion

An online education program improves physical therapists' short‐term confidence in knowledge and skills in weight management for people with osteoarthritis and reduces weight‐stigmatized attitudes.
Fully Synthetic 3D Fibrous Scaffolds for Stromal Tissues—Replacement of Animal‐Derived Scaffold Materials Demonstrated by Multilayered Skin
Authors: Weigel Tobias , Malkmus Christoph , Weigel Verena , Wußmann Maximiliane , Berger Constantin , Brennecke Julian , Groeber‐Becker Florian , Hansmann Jan
Published: December 2021

The extracellular matrix (ECM) of soft tissues in vivo has remarkable biological and structural properties. Thereby, the ECM provides mechanical stability while it still can be rearranged via cellular remodeling during tissue maturation or healing processes. However, modern synthetic alternatives fail to provide these key features among basic properties. Synthetic matrices are usually completely degraded or are inert regarding cellular remodeling. Based on a refined electrospinning process, a method is developed to generate synthetic scaffolds with highly porous fibrous structures and enhanced fiber‐to‐fiber distances. Since this approach allows for cell migration, matrix remodeling, and ECM synthesis, the scaffold provides an ideal platform for the generation of soft tissue equivalents. Using this matrix, an electrospun‐based multilayered skin equivalent composed of a stratified epidermis, a dermal compartment, and a subcutis is able to be generated without the use of animal matrix components. The extension of classical dense electrospun scaffolds with high porosities and motile fibers generates a fully synthetic and defined alternative to collagen‐gel‐based tissue models and is a promising system for the construction of tissue equivalents as in vitro models or in vivo implants.
Bloch Surface Wave‐Assisted Ultrafast All‐Optical Switching in Graphene
Authors: Popkova Anna A. , Chezhegov Aleksandr A. , Rybin Maxim G. , Soboleva Irina V. , Obraztsova Elena D. , Bessonov Vladimir O. , Fedyanin Andrey A.
Published: December 2021

Graphene has ultrafast charge carrier dynamic and shows strong light–matter interaction allowing the use in photovoltaic devices, fast photodetectors, saturable absorbers, and electro‐optical modulators. However, despite the high nonlinear optical susceptibilities, the small amount of material significantly limits the use of graphene for nonlinear optical applications. In this work, Bloch surface waves (BSWs) are employed, enhancing the graphene–light interaction, for all‐optical switching realization. By placing a graphene monolayer on top of a 1D photonic crystal, it is shown that for the wavelength corresponding to the BSW resonance, the reflection coefficient is modulated on the sub‐picosecond time scale by an order of magnitude larger than that for bare graphene. The magnitude of the reflection change reaches 0.3% at the fluence of 40 µJ cm−2. The reported results are proof of priciple possibility of BSW‐assisted enhancing the reflection modulation of any 2D materials and transparent thin films while maintaining their inherent ultrafast dynamics, which is useful for the further development of all‐optical switches.
A novel mind‐set in primate experimentation: Implications for primate welfare
Authors: Tramacere Antonella , Iriki Atsushi
Published: December 2021

We emphasize the importance of studying the primate brain in cognitive neuroscience and suggest a new mind‐set in primate experimentation within the boundaries of animal welfare regulations. Specifically, we list the advantages of investigating both genes and neural mechanisms and processes in the emergence of behavioral and cognitive functions, and propose the establishment of an open field of primate research. The latter may be conducted by implementing and harmonizing experimental practices with ethical guidelines that regulate (1) management of natural parks with free‐moving populations of target nonhuman primates, (2) establishment of indoor‐outdoor labs for both system genetics and neuroscience investigations, and (3) hotel space and technologies which remotely collect and dislocate information regarding primates geographically located elsewhere.
Umwandlung vonEscherichia coliProteomembranen in artifizielle Chloroplasten durch molekulare Photokatalyse
Authors: Mengele Alexander K. , Weixler Dominik , Amthor Sebastian , Eikmanns Bernhard J. , Seibold Gerd M. , Rau Sven
Published: December 2021

In der lichtabhängigen Reaktion der Photosynthese koppeln grüne Pflanzen photoinduzierte Kaskaden von Redoxreaktionen mit transmembranen Protonentransfers um Reduktionsäquivalente und chemische Energie in Form von NADPH (Nikotinamidadenindinukleotidphosphat) und ATP (Adenosintriphosphat) zu erzeugen. Wir imitieren diese grundlegenden Prozesse durch Kombination von molekularen Rutheniumpolypyridinkomplexen und invertierten Vesikeln, die ausEscherichia coligewonnen werden. Bei Bestrahlung mit sichtbarem Licht führt das Zusammenspiel von photokatalytischer Nikotinamidreduktion und enzymatischer, membranlokalisierter Atmung zur gleichzeitigen Bildung der beiden biologisch aktiven Cofaktoren NADH (Nikotinamidadenindinukleotid) und ATP. Dieses anorganisch‐biologische Hybridsystem ahmt daher die Cofaktor‐bereitstellende Funktion eines aktiven Chloroplasten nach.
A Brønsted Acidic Gallium Hydride: Facile Interconversion of NNNN‐Macrocycle Supported [GaI]+ and [GaIIIH]2+
Authors: Morris Louis J. , Ghana Priyabrata , Rajeshkumar Thayalan , Carpentier Ambre , Maron Laurent , Okuda Jun
Published: December 2021

Protonolysis of [Cp*M] (M=Ga, In, Tl) with [(Me4TACD)H][BAr4Me] (Me4TACD=N,N′,N′′,N′′′‐tetramethyl‐1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane; [BAr4Me]−=[B{C6H3‐3,5‐(CH3)2}4]−) provided monovalent salts [(Me4TACD)M][BAr4Me], whereas [Cp*Al]4 yielded trivalent [(Me4TACD)AlH][BAr4Me]2. Protonation of [(Me4TACD)Ga][BAr4Me] with [Et3NH][BAr4Me] gave an unusually acidic (pKa(CH3CN)=24.5) gallium(III) hydride dication [(Me4TACD)GaH][BAr4Me]2. Deprotonation with IMe4 (1,3,4,5‐tetramethyl‐imidazol‐ylidene) returned [(Me4TACD)Ga][BAr4Me]. These reversible processes occur with formal two‐electron oxidation and reduction of gallium. DFT calculations suggest that gallium(I) protonation is facilitated by strong coordination of the tetradentate ligand, which raises the HOMO energy. High nuclear charge of [(Me4TACD)GaH]2+ facilitates hydride‐to‐metal charge transfer during deprotonation. Attempts to prepare a gallium(III) dihydride cation resulted in spontaneous dehydrogenation to [(Me4TACD)Ga]+.
Light‐Assisted CO2 Hydrogenation over Pd3Cu@UiO‐66 Promoted by Active Sites in Close Proximity
Authors: Ling Li‐Li , Yang Weijie , Yan Peng , Wang Min , Jiang Hai‐Long
Published: December 2021

CO2 hydrogenation to methanol has attracted great interest while suffering from low conversion and high energy input. Herein, tiny Pd3Cu nanoparticles are confined into a metal–organic framework (MOF), UiO‐66, to afford Pd3Cu@UiO‐66 for CO2 hydrogenation. Remarkably, it achieves a methanol production rate of 340 μmol g−1 h−1 at 200 °C and 1.25 MPa under light irradiation, far surpassing that in the dark. The photo‐generated electron transfer from the MOF to antibonding orbitals of CO2* promotes CO2 activation and HCOO* formation. In addition, the Pd3Cu microenvironment plays a critical role in CO2 hydrogenation. In contrast to the MOF‐supported Pd3Cu (Pd3Cu/UiO‐66), the Pd3Cu@UiO‐66 exhibits a much higher methanol production rate due to the close proximity between CO2 and H2 activation sites, which greatly facilitates their interaction and conversion. This work provides a new avenue to the integration of solar and thermal energy for efficient CO2 hydrogenation under moderate conditions.
Copolymerization of catechol and polyethyleneimine onto activated carbon for efficient removal of Congo red dye
Authors: Yan Dexiang , Li Fenghua , Sun Bin , Wang Yuanbo , Liu Qinze , Gao Tingting , Zhou Guowei
Published: December 2021

In this work, a new AC@Catechol/PEI adsorbent was prepared via the copolymerization of catechol and polyethyleneimine (PEI) onto pretreated commercial activated carbon (AC). It achieved a high adsorption capacity of 411.52 mg/g for the anionic dye Congo red (CR), which was approximately 7 times that of pretreated AC without modification. In bath adsorption experiment, 1 g of adsorbent was used to treat 4 L of 100 mg/L CR solution, resulting in 98.5% CR removal. In addition, the prepared AC@Catechol/PEI adsorbent exhibited highly efficient CR competitive adsorption against SO42− ions and cationic malachite green dye. The adsorption mechanism was mainly attributed to electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and π–π stacking. Catecholamine modification greatly improved the adsorption capacity and adsorption selectivity of commercial AC for CR dyes. This low‐cost adsorbent may have broad prospects for the removal of anionic dyes in wastewater.
Investigation on electromagnetic shielding and antiultraviolet radiation properties of ZnO@AgNWs/waterborne polyurethane composites
Authors: Ye Bei , Zeng Xiao‐Ling , Guan Ji‐Peng , Guo Shao‐Cong , Yao Yu‐Yuan , Shen Xiao‐Jun
Published: December 2021

Materials with strong electromagnetic absorption capacity and strong ultraviolet (UV) resistance have become an increasing requirement for the next‐generation of multifunctional textiles. Herein, cotton fabric composites with ultra‐high‐efficiency electromagnetic shielding and UV resistance are provided by decorating zinc oxide (ZnO) on silver nanowires (AgNWs). ZnO modified AgNWs (ZnO@AgNWs) were prepared first, followed by filling into waterborne polyurethane (WPU) to form ZnO@AgNWs/WPU, which was used to prepare multifunctional cotton fabric composites by spreading ZnO@AgNWs/WPU evenly on cotton fabric by hand coating. The electromagnetic shielding properties of the composites were measured at the frequency range of 0.3–3000 MHz. The results showed that the maximum electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) value of ZnO@AgNWs/WPU/cotton fabric composite was 32 dB. The neat AgNWs were also used to enhance the electromagnetic shielding. The EMI SE of ZnO@AgNWs/WPU/cotton fabric composite was 52.38% higher than AgNWs/WPU/cotton fabric composite. In addition, the ZnO@AgNWs/WPU/cotton fabric composite presents well UV protecting ability. The tensile strength of cotton fabric increased 30.15% with the addition of ZnO@AgNWs. This study offers an effective strategy for the preparation of electromagnetic shielding and UV radiation resistance material.
Oxygen Vacancies of Commercial V2O5 Induced by Mechanical Force to Enhance the Diffusion of Zinc Ions in Aqueous Zinc Battery
Authors: Zhao Danyang , Zhu Qiancheng , Li Xiaohui , Dun Menghan , Wang Yin , Huang Xintang
Published: December 2021

Rechargeable aqueous batteries with Zn2+ as a media‐ion are promising candidates for large‐scale energy storage because of their intrinsic safety, low‐cost and high energy‐intensity. Vanadium based cathodic materials have gained significant attention in aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) due to their high capacity and satisfactory cycle stability. However, more facile and efficient fabrication methods should be explored when considering future realistic application. Herein, commercial V2O5 cathodes with oxygen vacancies were fabricated through a simple mechanical ball milling method. The results suggest that mechanical force can directly induce the oxygen vacancies in commercial V2O5, which significantly enhance the diffusion of Zn ions. The oxygen vacancy−V2O5 (Ov−V2O5) shows much higher capacity than the pristine commercial V2O5 and the cyclic stability reached 2500 times. Ov−V2O5 cathode with a facile synthesis technology is a promising candidate for future high‐performance, low‐cost, safe, and environment‐friendly Zn battery devices.
Hypothesized pathogenesis of acardius acephalus, acormus, amorphus, anceps, acardiac edema, single umbilical artery, and pump twin risk prediction
Authors: van Gemert Martin J. C. , Ross Michael G. , van den Wijngaard Jeroen P. H. M. , Nikkels Peter G. J.
Published: December 2021

Background

Acardiac twinning complicates monochorionic twin pregnancies in ≈2.6%, in which arterioarterial (AA) and venovenous placental anastomoses cause a reverse circulation between prepump and preacardiac embryos and cessation of cardiac function in the preacardiac. Literature suggested four acardiac body morphologies in which select (groups of) organs fail to develop, deteriorate, or become abnormal: acephalus (≈64%, [almost] no head, part of body, legs), amorphus (≈22%, amorphous tissue lump), anceps (≈10%, cranial bones, well‐developed), and acormus (≈4%, head only). We sought to develop hypotheses that could explain acardiac pathogenesis, its progression, and develop methods for clinical testing.

Methods

We used qualitatively described pathophysiology during development, including twin‐specific AA and Hyrtl's anastomoses, the short umbilical cord syndrome, high capillary permeability, properties of spontaneous aborted embryos, and Pump/Acardiac umbilical venous diameter (UVD) ratios.

Results

We propose that each body morphology has a specific pathophysiologic pathway. An acephalus acardius may be larger than an anceps, verifiable from UVD ratio measurements. A single umbilical artery develops when one artery, unconnected to the AA, vanishes due to flow reduction by Hyrtl's anastomotic resistance. Acardiac edema may result from acardiac body hypoxemia combined with physiological high fetal capillary permeability, high interstitial compliance and low albumin synthesis. Morphological changes may occur after acardiac onset. Pump twin risk follows from UVD ratios.

Conclusion

Our suggested outcomes agree reasonably well with reported onset, incidence, and progression of acardiac morphologies. Guidance for clinical prediction and testing requires ultrasound anatomy/circulation study, from the first trimester onward.
Electrochemical Deposited Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks as an Efficient Electrocatalyst for CO2 Electrocatalytic Reduction
Authors: Zhang Renjie , Yang Jie , Zhao Xinbo , Yang Han , Li Hongping , Ji Bairun , Zhou Guangying , Ma Xiaoxue , Yang Dexin
Published: December 2021

Electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 over zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) generally has poor activity and low CO Faradaic efficiency due to the poor contact between conductive substrate and ZIFs synthesized by ex‐situ method. Here, ZIF‐8 films on Zn foils (ZIF‐8/Zn) fabricated by in‐situ electrochemical deposition were used for CO2 electroreduction in ionic liquid‐based ternary electrolyte. Tunable morphology and thickness of ZIF‐8 film can regulate the activity of CO2 electroreduction. The ZIF‐8/Zn‐40 electrode demonstrates the highest CO Faradaic efficiency (91.8 %) with the current density of 12.6 mA cm−2 at −1.9 V vs. Ag/Ag+, which is superior to the performance of ZIF‐8/CP electrode prepared by ex‐situ method. The excellent activity of ZIF‐8/Zn‐40 electrode is mainly attributed to abundant active sites in 3D structures with largest surface area, tight and good contact between ZIF‐8 film and Zn foil, faster rate CO2 diffusion, and synergistic effect between electrode and [Bmim]PF6‐containing electrolyte. The facile synthesis of ZIF‐8/Zn electrode provides a novel technology to design efficient electrodes for CO2 electroreduction.
Hydrophosphinylation of Styrenes Catalysed by Well‐Defined s‐Block Bimetallics
Authors: Platten Andrew W. J. , Borys Andryj M. , Hevia Eva
Published: December 2021

Advancing the applications of s‐block heterobimetallic complexes in catalysis, we report the use of potassium magnesiate (PMDETA)2K2Mg(CH2SiMe3)4 [PMDETA=N,N,N’,N’,N’’‐pentamethyldiethylenetriamine] for the catalytic hydrophosphinylation of styrenes under mild conditions. Exploiting chemical cooperation, this bimetallic approach offers greater catalytic activity and chemoselectivity than the single‐metal components KCH2SiMe3 and Mg(CH2SiMe3)2. Stoichiometric studies between (PMDETA)2K2Mg(CH2SiMe3)4 and Ph2P(O)H help to elucidate the constitution of the active catalytic species, and illustrate the influence of donors on the potassium cation coordination, and how this may impact catalytic activity. Mechanistic investigations support that the rate determining step is the insertion of the olefinic substrate.
α‐Amino‐iso‐Butyric Acid Foldamers Terminated with Rhodium(I) N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Catalysts
Authors: Tilly David P. , Cullen William , Zhong Heng , Jamagne Romain , Vitórica‐Yrezábal Inigo , Webb Simon J.
Published: December 2021

To investigate how remotely induced changes in ligand folding might affect catalysis by organometallic complexes, dynamic α‐amino‐iso‐butyric acid (Aib) peptide foldamers bearing rhodium(I) N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) complexes have been synthesized and studied. X‐ray crystallography of a foldamer with an N‐terminal azide and a C‐terminal Rh(NHC)(Cl)(diene) complex showed a racemate with a chiral axis in the Rh(NHC) complex and a distorted 310 helical body. Replacing the azide with either one or two chiral L‐α‐methylvaline (L‐αMeVal) residues gave diastereoisomeric foldamers that each possessed point, helical and axial chirality. NMR spectroscopy revealed an unequal ratio of diastereoisomers for some foldamers, indicating that the chiral conformational preference of the N‐terminal residue(s) was relayed down the 1 nm helical body to the axially chiral Rh(NHC) complex. Although the remote chiral residue(s) did not affect the stereoselectivity of hydrosilylation reactions catalysed by these foldamers, these studies suggest a potential pathway towards remote conformational control of organometallic catalysts.
Characterization of geometric variance in the epithelial nerve net of the ctenophore Pleurobrachia pileus
Authors: Courtney Amy , Liegey Jérémy , Burke Niamh , Hassett Amy R. , Lowery Madeleine , Pickering Mark
Published: December 2021

Neuroscience lacks a diverse repertoire of model organisms, resulting in an incomplete understanding of the general principles of neural function. Ctenophores display many neurobiological and experimental features which make them a promising candidate to fill this gap. They possess a nerve net distributed across their body surface in the epithelial layer. There is a long‐held assumption that nerve nets are “simple” and lack distinct organizational principles. We want to challenge this assumption and determine how stereotyped the structure of this network is. We estimated body surface area in Pleurobrachia pileus using custom optical projection tomography and light sheet morphometry imaging systems. Using an antibody against tyrosinated α‐tubulin, we visualized the nerve net in situ and quantified the geometric properties using an automated segmentation approach. We characterized organizational rules of the epithelial nerve net in animals of different sizes and at different regions of the body. We found that specific morphological features within the nerve net are largely unchanged during growth. These properties must be essential to the functionality of the nervous system and therefore are maintained during a change in body size. We have also established the principles of organization of the network and showed that some of the geometric properties are variable across different parts of the body. This suggests that there may be different functions occurring in regions with different structural characteristics. This is the most comprehensive structural description of a ctenophore nerve net to date and demonstrates the amenability of P. pileus for whole organism network analysis.
Exploring the alternatives to the conventional interference mitigation schemes for 5G wireless cellular communication network
Authors: Bindle Abhay , Gulati Tarun , Kumar Neeraj
Published: December 2021

The manifold increase in the number of cellular wireless network consumers has presented a monumental challenge to upgrade the current infrastructure for imparting superior throughput and good quality of service. End‐users of the network will want super high‐speed data with very low latency, as well as secure and with a lower packet data drop rate. Joint coordination between various network resources such as that of a dense heterogeneous network is crucial for achieving the above demands. It is also inevitable that such a dense arrangement of small cells or macro cells or other network equipment will be challenged by different forms of interference apart from being costly and less mobile. Beamforming is among the most advanced technology that is available up to date which has shown good results at handling interference and at guiding transmitted data to the desired end‐user. It is quite useful but also struggles from certain factors when deployed in a dense network. A thorough review of recent works of literature is detailed in the current paper with a focus placed on two major fields, which are interference mitigation techniques and gainful interference exploitation techniques. Some highly advanced interference mitigation techniques which are either developed or under development with their merits have been proposed. Most of these techniques use machine learning and artificial intelligence‐based methods to ensure the best quality of service (QoS) to every individual connected to the network. However some research works focused on negating away any kind of interference present in a signal, some focused on harnessing interference for optimizing the power of transmitted signals.
Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma of anal canal with adenoid cystic pattern and liver metastasis: A rare case report
Authors: Rani Usha , Tanwar Parul , Jain Shyam Lata , Verma Nidhi , Dahiya Sakshi , Lal Pawanindra
Published: December 2021

Anal malignancies are rare, and of these squamous cell carcinoma and basaloid squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types. Anal basaloid squamous carcinoma (BSC) can show a variety of patterns including unusual variants with cribriform areas resembling adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC). BSC is reported more frequently in elderly females. Although the histopathology of BSC is characteristic, its cytomorphology is rarely described in the anorectal region. Due to overlapping morphological features, it is challenging to distinguish between ACC and BSC. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is mandatory for this distinction and definite diagnosis, as it is a highly aggressive tumor with a tendency for distant metastasis. An interesting and rare case of BSC with ACC‐pattern arising in the anal canal with liver metastasis in a middle‐aged male is reported here. The aim is to highlight its cytological features, correlation with histology, IHC and its differential diagnoses.
Spatial patterns of light‐demanding tree species in the Yangambi rainforest (Democratic Republic of Congo)
Authors: Luambua Nestor K. , Hubau Wannes , Salako Kolawolé Valère , Amani Christian , Bonyoma Bernard , Musepena Donatien , Rousseau Mélissa , Bourland Nils , Nshimba Hippolyte S.M. , Ewango Corneille , Beeckman Hans , Hardy Olivier J.
Published: December 2021

Most Central African rainforests are characterized by a remarkable abundance of light‐demanding canopy species: long‐lived pioneers (LLP) and non‐pioneer light demanders (NPLD). A popular explanation is that these forests are still recovering from intense slash‐and‐burn farming activities, which abruptly ended in the 19th century. This “human disturbance” hypothesis has never been tested against spatial distribution patterns of these light demanders. Here, we focus on the 28 most abundant LLP and NPLD from 250 one‐ha plots distributed along eight parallel transects (~50 km) in the Yangambi forest. Four species of short‐lived pioneers (SLP) and a single abundant shade‐tolerant species (Gilbertiodendron dewevrei) were used as reference because they are known to be strongly aggregated in recently disturbed patches (SLP) or along watercourses (G. dewevrei). Results show that SLP species are strongly aggregated with clear spatial autocorrelation of their diameter. This confirms that they colonized the patch following a one‐time disturbance event. In contrast, LLP and NPLD species have random or weakly aggregated distribution, mostly without spatial autocorrelation of their diameter. This does not unambiguously confirm the “human disturbance” hypothesis. Alternatively, their abundance might be explained by their deciduousness, which gave them a competitive advantage during long‐term drying of the late Holocene. Additionally, a canonical correspondence analysis showed that the observed LLP and NPLD distributions are not explained by environmental variables, strongly contrasting with the results for the reference species G. dewevrei, which is clearly aggregated along watercourses. We conclude that the abundance of LLP and NPLD species in Yangambi cannot be unambiguously attributed to past human disturbances or environmental variables. An alternative explanation is that present‐day forest composition is a result of adaptation to late‐Holocene drying. However, results are inconclusive and additional data are needed to confirm this alternative hypothesis.
Bayesian mark–recapture–resight–recovery models: increasing user flexibility in the BUGS language
Authors: Riecke Thomas V. , Gibson Dan , Leach Alan G. , Lindberg Mark S. , Schaub Michael , Sedinger James S.
Published: December 2021

Estimating demographic parameters of interest is a critical component of applied conservation biology and evolutionary ecology, where demographic models and demographic data have become increasingly complex over the last several decades. These advances have been spurred by the development and use of information theoretic approaches, programs such as MARK and SURGE, and Bayesian inference. The use of Bayesian analyses has also become increasingly popular, where WinBUGS, JAGS, Stan, and NIMBLE provide increased user flexibility. Despite recent advances in Bayesian demographic modeling, some capture–recapture models that have been implemented in Program MARK remain unavailable to quantitative ecologists that wish to use Bayesian modeling approaches. We provide novel parameterizations of capture–mark–recapture–resight–recovery models implemented in Program MARK that have not yet been implemented in the BUGS language. Simulations show that the models described herein provide accurate parameter estimates. Our parameterizations of these models can easily be extended to estimate additional parameters such as entry probability, additional live states, or cause‐specific mortality rates. Additionally, implementing these models in a Bayesian framework allows users to readily estimate parameters as mixtures, incorporate random individual or temporal variation, and use informative priors to assist with parameter estimation.
The success of alien plants in an arid ecosystem: Structural equation modeling reveals hidden effects of soil resources
Authors: El‐Barougy Reham F. , Dakhil Mohammed A. , ElGamal Ibrahim A. , Gray Sarah M. , Khedr Abdel‐Hamid A. , Bersier Louis‐Félix
Published: December 2021

The diversity of a native community is not the sole driving factor determining the success of an invader; abiotic factors can also play a role, making it important to understand their contributions in modifying the expected outcome of biotic and abiotic resistance to invasion. In order to test the contributions of native diversity, relatedness between native and alien plants, and abiotic factors in resisting alien invasion, we used a trait–environment data set of 33 alien‐ and 130 native plants in 166 invaded plots, covering a gradient of soil resources in Saint‐Katherine‐Protectorate, an arid‐protected area in Egypt. We measured the native diversity components as predictors of native biotic resistance. We quantified the success of alien plants based on their abundance and their performance traits. Additionally, we calculated the mean functional and phylogenetic distance between aliens and natives in each plot. We tested all plausible influences of native diversity components, relatedness, and soil resources on alien abundance and performance first using mixed‐effects models and second with a structural equation model (SEM). Mixed‐effect models revealed that, in the resource‐rich environments, alien abundance increased even though native plants were more productive, but alien performance decreased. SEM direct pathways revealed that native communities with high functional dispersion and richness and high mean‐weighted performance traits repelled alien plants by lowering their success. Simultaneously, in line with mixed‐effect models results, the effect of soil resources on alien success was found to be indirect, being mediated by the mean functional and phylogenetic distance between aliens and natives: The success of alien plants increased in resource‐rich environments when they were dissimilar to the natives, while it decreased for aliens similar to natives in resource‐limited environments. Our findings provide new insights on native community resistance to invasion, with resistance being higher in resource‐limited environments and when aliens are functionally and phylogenetically similar to resident natives.
Contrasting Photochemical and Thermal Catalysis by Ruthenium Arsine Complexes Revealed by Parahydrogen Enhanced NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Adams Ralph W. , John Richard O. , Blazina Damir , Eguillor Beatriz , Cockett Martin C. R. , Dunne John P. , López‐Serrano Joaquín , Duckett Simon B.
Published: December 2021

The thermal and photochemical reactivity of Ru(CO)3(dpae) (1) and Ru(CO)2(dpae)(PPh3) (2) towards H2 and diphenylacetylene is described. These reactions are monitored by NMR spectroscopy in conjunction with the parahydrogen induced polarisation (PHIP) effect, spatially resolved chemical shift imaging and the Only Parahydrogen Spectroscopy (OPSY) signal filtering method. The results are supported by DFT. The thermal and photochemical reactions of 1 with H2 proceed by CO loss and form Ru(H)2(CO)2(dpae) (3). 1 catalyses the formation of 1,2 diphenylethane, cis‐ and trans‐stilbene, and 1,2,3,4 tetraphenylbutadiene under 325 nm irradiation at 295 K in a reaction where Ru(CO)2(dpae)(η2‐CHPh=CPhCPh=CHPh) forms. When the same reaction is monitored under thermal conditions at 333 K the η2‐diene complex is no longer detected but hydride containing Ru(CHPhCH2Ph)(H)(CO)2(dpae) and Ru(CO)2(dpae)(trans‐stilbene) are seen. For 1, the photochemical promotion of hydrogenation through 325 nm irradiation results in an approximate 5.5‐fold increase in turnover at 333 K when compared to no irradiation. In contrast, 2 reacts thermally with H2 at 295 K through PPh3 and CO loss with both Ru(H)2(CO)(dpae)(solvent) and 3 being detected. Under irradiation, CO loss dominates and two isomers of Ru(H)2(CO)(dpae)(PPh3) form. While 2 forms the same 4 organic products at 295 K and a second isomer of Ru(CHPhCH2Ph)(H)(CO)2(dpae) alongside the diene complex no photochemical promotion of hydrogenation is observed.
A Mechanistic Study on the Non‐enzymatic Hydrolysis of Kdn Glycosides
Authors: Nejatie Ali , Colombo Cinzia , Hakak‐Zargar Benyamin , Bennet Andrew J.
Published: December 2021

Sialic acids are biologically important carbohydrates that are prevalent throughout nature. We are interested in their intrinsic reactivity in aqueous solution and how such reactivity affects the design of substrates for investigation of enzymes that process these sugars. To probe the reactivity differences between two sialic acid family members N‐acetylneuraminic acid and Kdn we measured the rate constants for hydrolysis of 4‐nitrophenyl 3‐deoxy‐d‐glycero‐α‐d‐galacto‐non‐2‐ulosonide in aqueous solution. The kinetic data is consistent with glycosidic C−O bond cleavage occurring via four mechanistic pathways, and these are: (i) hydronium ion‐catalyzed hydrolysis of the neutral sugar; (ii) hydronium ion‐catalyzed hydrolysis of the glycosidic carboxylate; (iii) water‐catalyzed hydrolysis of the anionic glycoside; and (iv) base‐promoted reaction of the anionic glycoside. To study the effects of C‐5 substitution on the Kdn glycoside we made 4‐nitrophenyl 5‐O‐methyl‐α‐Kdn glycoside and determined its rate constants for hydrolysis. All hydrolytic rate constants for both Kdn glycosides were larger than those reported for the parent N‐acetyl‐α‐neuraminide. The water‐catalyzed reaction (pathway iii) exhibited a βlg value of −1.3±0.1. We conclude that the larger rate constants associated with C5‐oxygen containing sialosides results from less steric congestion at the hydrolytic transition states than for the parent C‐5 acetamido glycoside.
Black Charcoal for Green and Scalable Wooden Electrodes for Supercapabatteries
Authors: Liu Lianlian , Masich Sergej , Björk Emma M. , Solin Niclas , Inganäs Olle
Published: December 2021

A green, though black, sustainable and low‐cost carbon material—charcoal produced from wood—is developed for electricity storage. Charcoal electrodes are fabricated by ball‐milling charcoal and adding protein nanofibril binders. The charcoal electrode presents a capacitance of 360 F g−1 and a conductivity of 0.2 S m−1. A pair of redox peaks is observed in the cyclic voltammetry and assigned to originate from quinone groups. Compared with other wooden electrodes, these charcoal electrodes display better cycling stability with 88% capacity retention after 1000 cycles. Their discharge capacity is 2.5 times that of lignosulfonate/graphite hybrid electrodes.
Recognizing a spatial extreme dependence structure: A deep learning approach
Authors: Ahmed Manaf , Maume‐Deschamps Véronique , Ribereau Pierre
Published: December 2021

Understanding the behavior of extreme environmental events is crucial for evaluating economic losses, assessing risks, and providing health care, among many other related aspects. In a spatial context, relevant for environmental events, the dependence structure is extremely important, influencing joint extreme events and extrapolating on them. Thus, recognizing or at least having preliminary information on the patterns of these dependence structures is a valuable knowledge for understanding extreme events. In this study, we address the question of automatic recognition of spatial asymptotic dependence versus asymptotic independence, using a convolutional neural network (CNN). We designed a CNN architecture as an efficient classifier of a dependence structure. Extremal dependence measures are used to train the CNN. We tested our methodology on simulated and real datasets: air temperature data at 2 m over Iraq and rainfall data along the east coast of Australia.
Canadian Large Ensembles Adjusted Dataset version 1 (CanLEADv1): Multivariate bias‐corrected climate model outputs for terrestrial modelling and attribution studies in North America
Authors: Cannon Alex J. , Alford Hunter , Shrestha Rajesh R. , Kirchmeier‐Young Megan C. , Najafi Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2021

The Canadian Large Ensembles Adjusted Dataset version 1 (CanLEADv1) contains 50‐member ensembles of bias‐adjusted near‐surface global and regional climate model variables on a 0.5° grid over North America for historical and future scenarios (1950–2100). Canadian Earth System Model Large Ensembles (CanESM2 LE) and Canadian Regional Climate Model Large Ensemble (CanRCM4 LE) datasets are bias‐corrected using a multivariate quantile‐mapping algorithm for statistical consistency – in terms of marginal distributions and multivariate dependence structure – with two observationally constrained historical meteorological forcing datasets. For each observational dataset, bias‐adjusted variables are provided for two sets of 50‐member initial‐condition CanESM2 ensembles (historical plus RCP8.5 scenarios, 1950–2005 and 2006–2100, respectively; and historicalNAT scenario, 1950–2020, which excludes anthropogenic forcings), and one 50‐member CanRCM4 ensemble (historical plus RCP8.5). The archive includes daily minimum temperature, maximum temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, surface pressure, wind speed, incoming shortwave radiation and incoming longwave radiation. Intended uses include hydrological and land surface impact modelling, as well as related event attribution studies.
Anatomical and functional visual network patterns in progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Backner Yael , Zamir Sol , Petrou Panayiota , Paul Friedemann , Karussis Dimitrios , Levin Netta
Published: December 2021

The gradual accrual of disability over time in progressive multiple sclerosis is believed to be driven by widespread degeneration. Yet another facet of the problem may reside in the loss of the brain's ability to adapt to the damage incurred as the disease progresses. In this study, we attempted to examine whether changes associated with optic neuritis in the structural and functional visual networks can still be discerned in progressive patients even years after the acute insult. Forty‐eight progressive multiple sclerosis patients, 21 with and 27 without prior optic neuritis, underwent structural and functional MRI, including DTI and resting state fMRI. Anatomical and functional visual networks were analyzed using graph theory‐based methods. While no functional metrics were significantly different between the two groups, anatomical global efficiency and density were significantly lower in the optic neuritis group, despite no significant difference in lesion load between the groups. We conclude that long‐standing distal damage to the optic nerve causes trans‐synaptic effects and the early ability of the cortex to adapt may be altered, or possibly nullified. We suggest that this limited ability of the brain to compensate should be considered when attempting to explain the accumulation of disability in progressive multiple sclerosis patients.
Alcohol Consumption and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Population‐Based Cohort Study
Authors: Janjua Malik , Knuiman Matthew , Divitini Mark , McQuillan Brendan , Olynyk John K. , Jeffrey Gary P. , Adams Leon A.
Published: December 2021

Low‐level alcohol consumption is associated with reduced cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the general population. It is unclear whether this association is seen in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) who have an increased risk of CVD. We examined the association between alcohol consumption and CVD‐related outcomes in subjects with NAFLD from a general population cohort. Subjects participating in the 1994‐1995 Busselton Health survey underwent clinical and biochemical assessment. NAFLD was identified using the Fatty Liver Index of >60, and alcohol consumption quantified using a validated questionnaire. CVD hospitalizations and death during the ensuing 20 years were ascertained using the Western Australian data linkage system. A total of 659 of 4,843 patients were diagnosed with NAFLD. The average standard drinks per week was 8.0 for men and 4.0 for women. Men consuming 8‐21 drinks per week had a 38% (hazard ratio [HR] 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.43‐0.90) lower risk of CVD hospitalization as compared with men consuming 1‐7 drinks per week. With both men and women combined, consumption of 8‐21 drinks per week was associated with a 32% (HR 0.68, 95% CI 0.49‐0.93) reduction in CVD hospitalization in minimally adjusted and 29% (HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.51‐0.99) in fully adjusted models. No protective association was observed with binge drinking. There was no association between alcohol consumption and CVD death. Conclusion: Low to moderate alcohol consumption is associated with fewer CVD hospitalizations but not CVD death in subjects with NAFLD.
Patients' attitude towards vaccination after Guillain Barré syndrome
Authors: Holtz Ben‐Ole , Grimm Alexander , Axer Hubertus
Published: December 2021

Background and Aims

Guillain Barré syndrome (GBS) could be triggered by an infectious disease but by vaccination as well. Thus, suffering GBS may influence patients' attitudes towards vaccination.

Methods

An anonymous questionnaire consisting of the Overall Neuropathy Limitations Score (ONLS), the short form‐36 health survey (SF‐36), and questions addressing patients' attitude towards vaccination was sent to members of a German GBS support group and to patients with GBS diagnosis who were treated at Jena University Hospital.

Results

Ninety‐seven questionnaires clearly stated GBS as a diagnosis and were included in the analysis. Although 19.6% of the GBS patients reported having no disability in the long‐time follow‐up, a considerable number of patients still had persistent neurological symptoms; 74.2% of the GBS patients reported being able to walk at least 10 m independently. However, 5.2% were restricted to wheelchair. The patients reached lower scores in all domains of quality of life compared to German controls. Moreover, patients showed a more critical attitude towards vaccination compared to a German representative survey. Fewer patients (58.8%) received a vaccination after suffering from GBS than before (77.3%). Every tenth patient believed that vaccination was the trigger for the GBS. 32% of the patients did not receive a vaccination in the last 5 years mainly because of the fear of adverse effects (32%) or disadvise of the general practitioners (25.8%).

Discussion

Although the risk of relapse following immunization may be rather low, uncertainties and fears still impair the counseling of these patients by their medical practitioner.
Numerical study of hybrid nanofluid flow and heat transfer on a stretching sheet with MHD and heat generation effects
Authors: Rajesh Vemula , Srilatha Mandava , Chamkha Ali J.
Published: December 2021

The key goals of this manuscript are (i) to investigate the heat transfer and unsteady flow properties of a viscous hybrid nanofluid on a stretching sheet having nonzero slot velocity, and (ii) to examine the impacts of magnetic field parameter, stretching parameter, nanoparticle volume fraction, and heat generation parameter on the Nusselt number and skin friction coefficient numerically. The Tiwari‐Das nanofluid model is used. The mathematical (PDEs) equations controlling border layer flow and heat transfer are resolved by applying a numerical finite‐difference technique in the Crank Nicolson style. For the validation process, the analytical solution is established using the Laplace transform technique and is compared with the numerical solution for a particular case and found to be in superb agreement.
Hybrid Nanostructure of Mixed Transition Metal Oxysulfides Supported by Porous PBA as Efficient Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Mukherjee Poulami , Sathiyan Krishnamoorthy , Vijay Aswin Kottapurath , Bar‐Ziv Ronen , Zidki Tomer
Published: December 2021

The construction of highly active and durable non‐noble‐metal electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is an ongoing challenge. Here, we report the development of a hybrid nanostructure of PBA cubes wrapped with mixed W‐Co oxysulfides in a hair‐like structure through sulfurization of polyoxometalate (CoIIIW12 POM) as a bimetallic precursor. These unique heterostructures of PBA@Co−W−O−S grafted on carbon cloth afford abundant active sites and improved charge transfer kinetics that synergistically enhance the OER activity (overpotential of 250 mV at 10 mA cm−2). The synthetic approach used in this report can be extended for developing inexpensive, durable and efficient catalysts with diverse structures.
Electron Correlation: Nature's Weird and Wonderful Chemical Glue
Authors: Martin Jan M. L.
Published: December 2021

It can be argued that electron correlation, as a concept, deserves the same prominence in general chemistry as molecular orbital theory. We show how it acts as Nature's “chemical glue” at both the molecular and supramolecular levels. Electron correlation can be presented in a general chemistry course in an at least somewhat intuitive manner. We also propose a simple classification of correlation effects based on their length scales and the size of the orbital gap (relative to the two‐electron integrals). In the discussion, we also show how DFT can shed light on wavefunction theory, and conversely. We discuss two types of “honorary valence orbitals”, one related to small core‐valence gaps, the other to the ability of empty 3d orbitals in 2ndrow elements to act as backbonding acceptors. Finally, we show why the pursuit of absolute total energies for their own sake becomes a sterile exercise, and why atomization energies are a more realistic “fix point”.
The impact of COVID‐19 on experiences of pregnancy and/or early parenting in Chile
Authors: Olhaberry Marcia , Sieverson Catalina , Franco Pamela , Romero Macarena , Tagle Trinidad , Iribarren Daniela , Honorato Carolina , Muzard Antonia
Published: December 2021

The unprecedented COVID‐19 pandemic has impacted families’ mental health around the globe. In June 2020, 1163 parents of high (43%), middle (47%), and low socioeconomic status (SES) (10%) participated in an online survey developed to explore how daily life changes and restrictions that came with COVID‐19 affected the experiences of pregnancy and/or parenting children under the age of 5 in Chile.

The survey's design had an exploratory and descriptive scope, with a mix of qualitative and quantitative questions. With the aim of exploring differences before and after COVID‐19, two time periods were established, and the 47‐item questionnaire covered participants’ sociodemographic information, support networks, health concerns, mood changes, self‐regulation, adult and children's perceived well‐being, parental competencies and parents’ perceptions of the unborn baby and/or their children's needs.

The results relative to retrospective reporting of pre‐pandemic levels, showed an increase in children's crying and tantrums as well as in parental irritability and sadness. Additionally, decreases in the ability to calm down and sleep quality in both parents and children were identified. Finally, at a qualitative level, COVID‐19 stands out both as an opportunity to get to know their children better and as a stressor related to parental burn‐out and discomfort.