bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glycemic burden and the risk of adverse hepatic outcomes in patients with chronic hepatitis B with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Mak Lung‐Yi , Hui Rex Wan‐Hin , Lee Chi‐Ho , Mao XianHua , Cheung Ka‐Shing , Wong Danny Ka‐Ho , Lui David Tak‐Wai , Fung James , Yuen Man‐Fung , Seto Wai‐Kay
Published: September 2022

Background and Aims:

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is common among patients with chronic hepatitis B infection (CHB) and has been associated with increased risk of carcinogenesis, including HCC. We investigated factors associated with HCC and fibrosis progression among patients with CHB with T2D (CHB+T2D).

Approach and Results:

Chinese patients with CHB were prospectively recruited for the incidence of HCC and fibrosis progression defined by transient elastography. Among patients with CHB+T2D, glycemic control was assessed by mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and HbA1c variability determined using HbA1c measurements in the 5 years preceding recruitment. A total of 2330 patients with CHB were recruited (mean age 54.6 ±11.8 years old, 55.5% male, 57.9% antiviral‐treated), with 671 (28.8%) having CHB+T2D (mean T2D duration 7.2 ± 4.6 years, mean HbA1c 7.2 ± 0.9%). T2D was independently associated with HCC (HR 2.080, 95% CI 1.343–3.222) and fibrosis progression (OR 4.305, 95% CI 3.416–5.424) in the overall cohort. In patients with CHB+T2D, factors reflecting glycemic burden (T2D duration [HR 1.107, 95% CI 1.023–1.198]), mean HbA1c (HR 1.851, 95% CI 1.026–3.339), time reaching target HbA1c (HbA1c‐TRT; HR 0.978, 95% CI 0.957–0.999), liver stiffness (HR 1.041–1.043), and smoking (HR 2.726–3.344) were independently associated with HCC (all p < 0.05), but not HbA1c variability or controlled attenuation parameter. The same glycemic burden–related factors (T2D duration, mean HbA1c, and HbA1c‐TRT), in addition to baseline fasting glucose, baseline HbA1c, AST and antiviral therapy, were independently associated with fibrosis progression at 3 years.

Conclusions:

High glycemic burden was associated with HCC development and fibrosis progression among patients with CHB+T2D, highlighting the importance of glycemic control in reducing liver‐related complications.
Evaluation of SEAWAVE–QEX in a high agricultural intensity catchment in Belgium
Authors: Rathjens Hendrik , Miguez Maria Bettina , Winchell Michael , Sur Robin
Published: September 2022

Pesticide surface water monitoring data have rarely been used as the only quantitative measure of exposure because the available monitoring data for most pesticides has not been considered robust enough for direct use in pesticide exposure assessments due to infrequent sampling. The cost of daily sample collection and analysis prohibits frequent sampling for most monitoring programs. In this context, a common question raised in assessments is how likely peak concentrations (i.e., annual maxima) may be missed if sampling intervals are longer than daily. The US Geological Survey developed the statistical model “seasonal wave with streamflow adjustment and extended capability” (SEAWAVE–QEX) to address the need to estimate infrequently occurring pesticide concentrations, such as annual maximum daily concentrations, for sites with nondaily monitoring data. This study compares the results of two postprocessing methods and evaluates the capability of SEAWAVE–QEX to estimate annual maximum concentrations of three commonly used herbicides and one metabolite in a catchment in Belgium. The study concludes that the appropriateness of using SEAWAVE–QEX to estimate annual maximum concentrations depends on pesticide characteristics and use and that the model can be particularly sensitive to nonflow correlated exposure events (e.g., point source contributions or drift). Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:513–526. © 2022 Stone Environmental and Bayer AG Crop Science Division. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
Perception of COVID‐19 pandemic restrictions on dental researchers
Authors: De Souza Grace M. , Tiwari Tamanna , Fox Christopher H. , Miguez Patricia A. , Letra Ariadne , Geisinger Maria L. , Patel Mangala , Shaddox Luciana , Ioannidou Effie
Published: September 2022

Background/objectives

Historical evidence shows a gender‐based disproportionate effect of pandemics across different populations. In 2020, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic began spreading its devastating effects worldwide. The goal of the present study was to investigate the effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic on research productivity, work‐life arrangements, and mental health of dental professionals worldwide with focus on gender differences.

Methods

A 38‐item survey, concerning demographics, career stage, employer support, family structure, mental health, and relationships, was distributed to 7692 active members of the International Association for Dental Research. Bivariate associations between independent variables and the primary outcome variable were tested using Spearman's correlation test. A logistic regression model was used to assess the simultaneous, independent associations between each variable and researcher productivity.

Results

A total of 722 responses were obtained, indicating a 9.4% response rate. Higher productivity was reported by male respondents (p = 0.021), and by those in senior career stages (p = 0.001). Institutional support was associated with higher productivity (p < 0.0001). Lower productivity was reported by younger researchers (p = 0.003). Remote work negatively affected productivity (p < 0.0001) and female respondents reported working more hours, regardless of work location (p = 0.004). Poor mental health was associated with low productivity (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Our results showed that the COVID‐19 pandemic significantly affected dental professionals’ perceived productivity and mental health around the globe. Younger individuals and women were disproportionally affected, and institutional support had a significant influence to mitigate effects of the pandemic for dental researchers.
Investigating the consistency of extracellular vesicle production from breast cancer subtypes using CELLine adherent bioreactors
Authors: Hisey Colin L. , Artuyants Anastasiia , Guo George , Chang Vanessa , Reshef Gabrielle , Middleditch Martin , Jacob Bincy , Chamley Lawrence W. , Blenkiron Cherie
Published: September 2022

Extracellular vesicle (EV) research has grown rapidly in recent years, largely due to the potential use of EVs as liquid biopsy biomarkers or therapeutics. However, in‐depth characterisation and validation of EVs produced using conventional in vitro cultures can be challenging due to the large area of cell monolayers and volumes of culture media required. To overcome this obstacle, multiple bioreactor designs have been tested for EV production with varying success, but the consistency of EVs produced over time in these systems has not been reported previously. In this study, we demonstrate that several breast cancer cell lines of different subtypes can be cultured simultaneously in space, resource, and time efficient manner using CELLine AD 1000 systems, allowing the consistent production of vast amounts of EVs for downstream experimentation. We report an improved workflow used for inoculating, maintaining, and monitoring the bioreactors, their EV production, and the characterisation of the EVs produced. Lastly, our proteomic analyses of the EVs produced throughout the lifetime of the bioreactors show that core EV‐associated proteins are relatively consistent, with few minor variations over time, but that tracking the production of EVs is a convenient method to indirectly monitor the bioreactor and consistency of the yielded EVs. These findings will aid future studies requiring the simultaneous production of large amounts of EVs from several cell lines of different subtypes of a disease and other EV biomanufacturing applications.
Family, nurse, and physician beliefs on family‐centered rounds: A 21‐site study
Authors: Patel Shilpa J. , Khan Alisa , Bass Ellen J. , Graham Dionne , Baird Jennifer , Anderson Michele , Calaman Sharon , Cray Sharon , Destino Lauren , Fegley April , Goldstein Jenna , Johnson Tyler , Kocolas Irene , Lewis Kheyandra D. , Liss Isabella , Markle Peggy , O'Toole Jennifer K. , Rosenbluth Glenn , Srivastava Raj , Vara Tiffany , Landrigan Christopher P. , Spector Nancy D. , Knighton Andrew J.
Published: September 2022

Background

Variation exists in family‐centered rounds (FCR).

Objective

We sought to understand patient/family and clinician FCR beliefs/attitudes and practices to support implementation efforts.

Designs, Settings and Participants

Patients/families and clinicians at 21 geographically diverse US community/academic pediatric teaching hospitals participated in a prospective cohort dissemination and implementation study.

Intervention

We inquired about rounding beliefs/attitudes, practices, and demographics using a 26‐question survey coproduced with family/nurse/attending‐physician collaborators, informed by prior research and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.

Main Outcome and Measures

Out of 2578 individuals, 1647 (64%) responded to the survey; of these, 1313 respondents participated in FCR and were included in analyses (616 patients/families, 243 nurses, 285 resident physicians, and 169 attending physicians). Beliefs/attitudes regarding the importance of FCR elements varied by role, with resident physicians rating the importance of several FCR elements lower than others. For example, on adjusted multivariable analysis, attending physicians (odds ratio [OR] 3.0, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.2–7.8) and nurses (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.3–7.4) were much more likely than resident physicians to report family participation on rounds as very/extremely important. Clinician support for key FCR elements was higher than self‐reported practice (e.g., 88% believed family participation was important on rounds; 68% reported it often/always occurred). In practice, key elements of FCR were reported to often/always occur only 23%–70% of the time.

Result

Support for nurse and family participation in FCR is high among clinicians but varies by role. Physicians, particularly resident physicians, endorse several FCR elements as less important than nurses and patients/families. The gap between attitudes and practice and between clinician types suggests that attitudinal, structural, and cultural barriers impede FCR.
Do private translation mechanisms encourage food safety in dairy production? Evidence from the Brazilian Conseleites
Authors: de Oliveira Gustavo Magalhães , Schnaider Paula Sarita Bigio , Saes Maria Sylvia Macchione , Martino Gaetano
Published: September 2022

This study investigates how and why the translation role of private meso‐institutions can help in the implementation of food safety norms in Brazilian dairy supply chains. Relying on a unique dataset containing producer‐level data, we combine a difference‐in‐differences approach with matching to investigate the experience of the Brazilian Conseleites. Our results indicate that milk quality levels tend to be higher in the states where Conseleites operate, suggesting a reduction in the cost of obtaining and disseminating information, and potentially, of transaction costs in a more general way.
Coding metasurface for diffusion‐like scattering in multiple directions based on Pancharatnam–Berry phase
Authors: Feng Maochang , Li Xuejian , Chen Xiaoli , Liu Zhewei , Li Yongfeng , Zhang Jieqiu , Zheng Qiqi , Wang Jiafu , Ma Hua , Qu Shaobo
Published: September 2022

Diffusion‐like scattering along multiple directions based on coding metasurface (CM) is proposed for both mono‐static and bi‐static radar cross section (RCS) reduction in this work. Different from the previous CMs achieving diffusion‐like scattering only in one direction, the proposed CMs can realize diffusion‐like scattering along multiple directions via designing the phase spatial distributions of the consisted coding elements. The multiple diffusion‐like scattering CMs were designed by using the co‐polarization reflection resonators under circularly polarized wave incidence based on Pancharatnam–Berry (PB) phase. By elaborately arranging the phase spatial distribution of coding elements, two, three, and four beams of diffusion‐like scattering were realized. The bi‐static RCS reduction was improved with increasing number of the backward diffusion‐like scattering beams. The measured results agree well with the simulations, and both demonstrated the excellent performance on mono‐static and bi‐static RCS reduction. Our strategy can help realize stealth applications under bi‐static detections.
Development of novel reversible thermometer from N‐isopropylacrylamide and dicyanodihydrofuran hydrazone probe
Authors: Snari Razan M. , Al‐Qahtani Salhah D. , Aldawsari Afrah M. , Alnoman Rua B. , Ibarhiam Saham F. , Alaysuy Omaymah , Shaaban Fathy , El‐Metwaly Nashwa M.
Published: September 2022

A simple‐structured polymeric colorimetric thermometer with selective colorimetric changes over a specific temperature range was developed. Thermo‐responsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐Dicyanodihydrofuran hydrazone) [Poly(NIPAM‐co‐DCDHFH)] organogel imprinted with DCDHFH chromophoric probe was prepared via free radical polymerization. The DCDHFH chromophore bearing a vinyl group was prepared by azo‐coupling of DCDHF with a diazonium salt of 2‐amino‐5‐nitrophenol bearing a vinyl substituent. The poly(NIPAM‐co‐DCDHFH) consists of DCDHFH chromophore and N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) monomers. The chemical structure of DCDHFH probe was verified by 1H NMR and FT‐IR. The thermochromic property can be attributed to a heat‐stimulated polymer self‐assembly process controlling the inner hydrophobicity leading to charge delocalization on the molecular system of the DCDHFH chromophore. Poly(NIPAM‐co‐DCDHFH) functioned as a thermochromic detector displaying colorful shifts between yellow (422 nm) and blue (580 nm) with raising the temperature of the aqueous poly(NIPAM‐co‐DCDHFH). These color shifts were correlated to the temperature increment from 28 to 46°C owing to the phase changes of the poly(NIPAM‐co‐DCDHFH) copolymer in aqueous media. The morphological features of the organogel nanofibers were studied by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The working mechanism accounting for the thermochromic performance of poly(NIPAM‐co‐DCDHFH) was explored. The cytotoxicity of the poly(NIPAM‐co‐DCDHFH) hydrogel was also evaluated. This is a significant study for a variety of potential applications, such as functional apparel and medicinal applications.
The shape of aroma: Measuring and modeling citrus oil gland distribution
Authors: Amézquita Erik J. , Quigley Michelle Y. , Ophelders Tim , Seymour Danelle , Munch Elizabeth , Chitwood Daniel H.
Published: September 2022

Societal Impact Statement

Citrus are intrinsically connected to human health and culture, preventing human diseases like scurvy and inspiring sacred rituals. Citrus fruits come in a stunning number of different sizes and shapes, ranging from small clementines to oversized pummelos, and fruits display a vast diversity of flavors and aromas. These qualities are key in both traditional and modern medicine and in the production of cleaning and perfume products. By quantifying and modeling overall fruit shape and oil gland distribution, we can gain further insight into citrus development and the impacts of domestication and improvement on multiple characteristics of the fruit.

Citrus come in diverse sizes and shapes, and play a key role in world culture and economy. Citrus oil glands in particular contain essential oils which include plant secondary metabolites associated with flavor and aroma. Capturing and analyzing nuanced information behind the citrus fruit shape and its oil gland distribution provide a morphology‐driven path to further our insight into phenotype–genotype interactions.

We investigated the shape of citrus fruit of 51 accessions based on 3D X‐ray computed tomography (CT) scan reconstructions. Accessions include members of the three ancestral citrus species as well as related genera, and several interspecific hybrids. We digitally separate and compare the size of fruit endocarp, mesocarp, exocarp, and oil gland tissue. Based on the centers of the oil glands, overall fruit shape is approximated with an ellipsoid. Possible oil gland distributions on this ellipsoid surface are explored using directional statistics.

There is a strong allometry along fruit tissues; that is, we observe a strong linear relationship between the logarithmic volume of any pair of major tissues. This suggests that the relative growth of fruit tissues with respect to each other follows a power law. We also observe that on average, glands distance themselves from their nearest neighbor following a square root relationship, which suggests normal diffusion dynamics at play.

The observed allometry and square root models point to the existence of biophysical developmental constraints that govern novel relationships between fruit dimensions from both evolutionary and breeding perspectives. Understanding these biophysical interactions prompts an exciting research path on fruit development and breeding.
Year in review 2021: Neuromuscular diseases
Authors: Kelchtermans Jelte , Mayer Oscar H.
Published: September 2022

In this years' review of neuromuscular respiratory medicine, there were a series of articles on home mechanical ventilation, real‐world studies assessing the impact of nusinersen, and studies describing upper airway dysfunction. Beyond this, we highlight two excellent reviews regarding cardiac dysfunction in neuromuscular diseases.
Antiphotocorrosion UV‐Bi2O3@PANI Photocatalyst Rich in Oxygen Vacancy Defects: Building Processes, Preparation Mechanisms, and Photocatalysis Performance
Authors: Dou Wenyue , Kong Linghao , Hu Xingyun , Tan Zhenzhen , Yang Yangyang
Published: September 2022

Low content of oxygen vacancy defects (OVs) and limited resistibility to photocorrosion are the core problems in the heterogeneous photocatalytic processes of bismuth oxide (Bi2O3). Herein, the strategy of “ultraviolet (UV) light‐inducing OVs” coupling with “polyaniline (PANI) combination inhibiting photocorrosion” is employed on the modification of Bi2O3. First, the high methylene blue (MB) degradation efficiency by UV3h‐Bi2O3@PANI0.5 wt% above 99.5% and the low Bi3+ dissolved concentration below 0.20 mg L−1 under visible light signify the high photocatalytic activity and stability. Then, the mechanisms for generation of OVs and inhibition of photocorrosion are proposed as follows. 1) Holes (h+) forming under irradiation, diffusing through the lattice, and reaching the surface of Bi2O3 can be regarded as a monatomic oxygen ion (OS−); 2) OS− combines and continues to be oxidized by h+, leading to the generation of O2 with the OVs left in the lattice; 3) UV‐Bi2O3 and PANI are excited to produce electrons/holes (e−/h+); 4) e−/h+ transfer in UV‐Bi2O3@PANI heterojunction leads to the separation of h+ from UV‐Bi2O3 and the inhibition of photocorrosion. Through the core problems being overcome, a new idea for the development and application of Bi2O3 with excellent performances in the field of water treatment is provided.
Stitching‐Induced Structural Corrugation of Twisted Grain Boundaries in CVD‐Grown MoS2 Domains
Authors: Hao Song , Zhang Jichang , Han Shancheng , Li Jingjie , Wang Nan , Li Jiaqi , Li Xiaogan
Published: September 2022

2D MoS2 films represent a promising direction for electronic and photonic devices, benefiting from their intrinsic semiconducting and ultrathin body. However, grain boundaries (GBs), as a common type of structural defect, are inevitable and significantly impair electrical performance and stability. Understanding the underlying forming mechanisms and influences of GBs is key to scalable MoS2 films with high electrical performance. Here, a phenomenon regarding the formation of twisted GBs and the exotic physical properties near the GB region are reported. A set of microscopies and spectroscopies complemented with theoretical calculations consistently show that the mechanical and electrostatic properties near the GB are distinct from the interior ones. The underlying mechanism is proposed to be that the edge stitching behavior of MoS2 single crystals with a misorientation angle leads to structural corrugation due to lattice deformation, which is responsible for the observed exotic properties. The proposed mechanism is further corroborated by the theoretical calculations of band structure as well as surface potentials for normal and twisted MoS2 monolayers. These results uncover an interesting interplay between the GB style and the physical properties and open new avenues for exploring applications in semiconducting MoS2.
Achieving the objectives of the 2030 sustainable development goals agenda: Causalities between economic growth, environmental sustainability, financial development, and renewable energy consumption
Authors: Guang‐Wen Zheng , Murshed Muntasir , Siddik Abu Bakkar , Alam Md Shabbir , Balsalobre‐Lorente Daniel , Mahmood Haider
Published: September 2022

As the global concerns regarding climate change and the related environmental adversities continue to persist alongside rapid development of the world economies, the United Nations declared a set of compressive sustainable development goals (SDG) that are to be realized by the end of 2030. These goals are specifically conceptualized to collectively facilitate the attainment of sustainable socioeconomic development while concurrently improving the quality of the global environment. Hence, this study assesses the interlinkages between economic growth, environmental pollution, financial development, and renewable energy use in light of the objectives of SDG8, SDG13, SDG10, and SDG7 by considering the BRICS nations as a case study. Although the previous studies, in this regard, have predominantly focused on specifically scrutinizing the determinants of these four macroeconomic variables of concern, not much importance was shown to map the interrelationships among these variables. The econometric analysis conducted in this study utilizes quarterly frequency data covering the period from 1990‐Q1 to 2020‐Q4. Overall, the findings from causality and variance decomposition analyses reveal that in the long run these variables are influenced by each other which, in turn, also verifies the cross‐linkages between the four SDG of concern. Besides, the causality‐related findings appear to be robust when alternate causality estimators are employed. Therefore, based on these critically important causal relationships, a set of interactive SDG‐related policies is recommended.
Regression analysis for covariate‐adaptive randomization: A robust and efficient inference perspective
Authors: Ma Wei , Tu Fuyi , Liu Hanzhong
Published: September 2022

Linear regression is arguably the most fundamental statistical model; however, the validity of its use in randomized clinical trials, despite being common practice, has never been crystal clear, particularly when stratified or covariate‐adaptive randomization is used. In this article, we investigate several of the most intuitive and commonly used regression models for estimating and inferring the treatment effect in randomized clinical trials. By allowing the regression model to be arbitrarily misspecified, we demonstrate that all these regression‐based estimators robustly estimate the treatment effect, albeit with possibly different efficiency. We also propose consistent non‐parametric variance estimators and compare their performances to those of the model‐based variance estimators that are readily available in standard statistical software. Based on the results and taking into account both theoretical efficiency and practical feasibility, we make recommendations for the effective use of regression under various scenarios. For equal allocation, it suffices to use the regression adjustment for the stratum covariates and additional baseline covariates, if available, with the usual ordinary‐least‐squares variance estimator. For unequal allocation, regression with treatment‐by‐covariate interactions should be used, together with our proposed variance estimators. These recommendations apply to simple and stratified randomization, and minimization, among others. We hope this work helps to clarify and promote the usage of regression in randomized clinical trials.
A Parchment‐Like Supercapacitor Made with Sustainable Graphene Electrodes and its Enhanced Capacitance by Incorporation of the LaSrCoO3 Perovskite
Authors: Garces Luis , Lopez‐Medina Margarita , Padmasree Karinjilottu Padmadas , Mtz‐Enriquez Arturo Isaias , Medina‐Velazquez Dulce Yolotzin , Flores‐Zuñiga Horacio , Oliva Jorge
Published: September 2022

This work reports the electrochemical properties of rollable supercapacitors (SCs) assembled with electrodes made of recycled soda label as supporting substrate, graphene (conductive material), TiNi alloy (negative collector) and copper foil (positive collector). The electrochemical properties of the SCs improved by adding the La0.5Sr0.5CoO3 (LSC) nanoparticles on their electrodes. Those nanoparticles have irregular morphology and sizes of 220–1800 nm. The SCs fabricated without LSC exhibited a gravimetric capacitance and energy density of 406.3 F g−1 and 56.5 Wh kg−1, respectively. When the LSC is added on the SC electrodes, the above values increase to 920.9 F g−1 and 127.1 Wh kg−1, that is, the capacitance was enhanced by ≈84 %. Another SC was fabricated using copper foil as negative collector instead of the TiNi alloy, but the capacitance and energy density were lowered to 135 F g−1 and 18.7 Wh kg−1, respectively. This result indicates that using the TiNi alloy as negative collector was important to produce higher capacitance. Surprisingly, the capacitance retention of the SC made with LSC increased to 133 % after 300 rolling cycles but it diminished to 78 % after 500 rolling cycles. The devices made with and without LSC exhibited output voltages of 1.25 V and 0.4 V, respectively. UV‐Vis absorbance, Raman and XPS spectra revealed the existence of oxygen vacancy defects and Co2+/Co3+ species on the SC electrodes, which worked as redox centers for the charge storage.
DNA‐Binding Studies of Ofloxacin Using a Series of Spectroscopic, Electrochemical Techniques and in Silico Approaches
Authors: Çeşme Mustafa , Özaltay Ayşe
Published: September 2022

Ofloxacin (OFL), a quinolone antibiotic, shows a bactericidal effect by inhibiting the DNA gyrase enzyme in bacteria. In addition to its use in various infections has a wide range of benefits from urinary system disorders to pneumonia and bronchitis. DNA is the main molecular target for many small molecules of therapeutic importance. In this article, the interaction between OFL and fsDNA (fish sperm DNA) is reported using a combination of biophysical (spectroscopic and electrochemical) and in silico techniques (molecular docking and molecular dynamics). The interaction and complex formation were studied using UV‐visible and steady‐state fluorescence spectroscopy. Ethidium bromide (EtBr), Rhodamine B (RB) competitive displacement, potassium iodide quenching, and ionic strength assays confirmed the binding mode between OFL and DNA via minor groove binding. Thermodynamic parameters at various temperatures supported the enthalpically driven, exothermic, and spontaneous reaction between OFL and fsDNA. It was found that hydrogen bond interaction and van der Waals forces play a dominant role in forming the complex form. DNA melting experiments corroborated these findings. In‐silico molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies revealed the interaction mode, major stabilizing forces, and the nucleotide sequences OFL binds and dock into the GC‐rich region of the DNA minor groove, confirming the in vitro experiment results.
A Simple Environmentally Friendly Method for the Synthesis of Hydroxyisoxazolidine Derivatives
Authors: Drosik Olga Kinga , Korytkowska‐Wałach Anna , Szczepankiewicz Wojciech , Suwiński Jerzy Wiktor
Published: September 2022

A series of 5‐hydroxyisoxazolidines has been successfully synthesized through tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (TRIS) buffered hydroxylamine hydrochloride and α, β‐ unsaturated ketones reaction. This synthetic approach can be considered as environmentally friendly because of the use of non‐toxic and non‐hazardous reagents at room temperature. The reaction is also metal‐free and generates minimum non‐toxic waste. The structure of 5‐hydroxyisoxazolidines was confirmed not only by extended NMR analysis but by a series of elimination and acetylation reactions. Hydroisoxazolidines are obtained as a mixture of diastereomers (cis‐, trans‐ and N‐invertomers). Usually, three sets of 1HNMR signals are observed for that class of compound (especially for protons H3 and both H4). The analysis of cis‐ and trans‐isomerization of the product 2 b has been conducted.
Regulation of Structure and Magnetic Properties for Nickel(II)/Cobalt(II) Coordination Polymers with 1,4‐Bis(imidazole‐1‐ylmethyl)benzene Ligand
Authors: Wang Yanhong , Gong Duming , Lu Hongcheng
Published: September 2022

Two new coordination polymers Ni(bix)3 ⋅ 2(NO3) ⋅ (H2O) 1 and Co(bix)2 ⋅ 2(NO3) 2 (bix=1,4‐bis(imidazole‐1‐ylmethyl)benzene) have successfully been synthesized via hydrothermal reactions. These two compounds have similar local coordination environments but different topological networks due to the flexibility of the bix ligand. Additionally, magnetic studies reveal that 1 and 2 also exhibit different magnetic behaviors. Although magnetic exchange pathways are same as MII‐bix‐MII (M=Ni 1, Co 2), 1 shows purely paramagnetic state almost down to 2 K with weak antiferromagnetic interaction; while stronger antiferromagnetic interaction in 2 is suggested. Meanwhile, an anomaly around 38 K in zero‐field‐cooled mode is observed but suppressed in field‐cooled mode, which may be suggesting the spin canting for 2. The field dependent magnetizations show magnetization of 2.17 μB and 2.44 μB at 7 T for 1 and 2, respectively. Also, the magnetic interaction J/kB of −3.3 K is estimated for 2.
Synthesis of Fluoroalkyl Cyclopentenes: Highly Diastereoselective Phosphine‐Catalyzed [3+2] Annulation of β‐Fluoroalkylvinyl Arylsulfones with Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman Carbonates
Authors: Xu Jiaqing , Hu Yimin , Liao Jianning , Du Juan , Wang Lei , Wang Wei , Wu Yongjun , Guo Hongchao
Published: September 2022

A phosphine‐catalyzed [3+2] annulation of β‐fluoroalkylvinyl arylsulfones and Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman carbonates was achieved to generate tetrasubstituted cyclopentene carboxylates with a fluoroalkylated stereogenic center at C4. The substrates with various substituents provided the expected [3+2] products in generally excellent yields and diastereoselectivities. This transformation provides a simple and efficient method for the synthesis of fluoroalkyl‐substituted cyclopentene compounds.
Controlled Core/Crown Growth Enables Blue‐Emitting Colloidal Nanoplatelets with Efficient and Pure Photoluminescence
Authors: Hu An , Bai Peng , Zhu Yunke , Tang Zhenyu , Xiao Lixin , Gao Yunan
Published: September 2022

Colloidal semiconductor CdSe nanoplatelets (NPLs) feature ultranarrow and anisotropic emissions. However, the optical performance of blue‐emitting NPLs is deteriorated by trap states, currently exhibiting tainted emissions and inferior photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs). Here, near trap‐free blue‐emitting NPLs are achieved by the controlled growth of the core/crown. Deep trap states in NPLs can be partially suppressed with the asymmetrical crown growth and are further suppressed with the growth of the small core and the alloyed symmetrical crown, yielding NPLs with pure blue emissions and near‐unity PLQYs. Exciton dynamic research based on these NPLs indicates that the trap emission stems from surface traps. Besides, light‐emitting diodes exhibiting ultranarrow emission centered around 461 nm with full‐width‐at‐half‐maximums down to 11 nm are fabricated using these NPLs.
Recent Development of Moisture‐Enabled‐Electric Nanogenerators
Authors: Guan Peiyuan , Zhu Renbo , Hu Guangyu , Patterson Robert , Chen Fandi , Liu Chao , Zhang Shuo , Feng Ziheng , Jiang Yue , Wan Tao , Hu Long , Li Mengyao , Xu Zhemi , Xu Haolan , Han Zhaojun , Chu Dewei
Published: September 2022

Power generation by converting energy from the ambient environment has been considered a promising strategy for developing decentralized electrification systems to complement the electricity supply for daily use. Wet gases, such as water evaporation or moisture in the atmosphere, can be utilized as a tremendous source of electricity by emerging power generation devices, that is, moisture‐enabled‐electric nanogenerators (MEENGs). As a promising technology, MEENGs provided a novel manner to generate electricity by harvesting energy from moisture, originating from the interactions between water molecules and hydrophilic functional groups. Though the remarkable progress of MEENGs has been achieved, a systematic review in this specific area is urgently needed to summarize previous works and provide sharp points to further develop low‐cost and high‐performing MEENGs through overcoming current limitations. Herein, the working mechanisms of MEENGs reported so far are comprehensively compared. Subsequently, a systematic summary of the materials selection and fabrication methods for currently reported MEENG construction is presented. Then, the improvement strategies and development directions of MEENG are provided. At last, the demonstrations of the applications assembled with MEENGs are extracted. This work aims to pave the way for the further MEENGs to break through the performance limitations and promote the popularization of future micron electronic self‐powered equipment.
Abstract Monitors for Quantitative Specifications
Authors: Henzinger Thomas A. , Mazzocchi Nicolas , Saraç N. Ege
Published: September 2022

Quantitative monitoring can be universal and approximate: For every finite sequence of observations, the specification provides a value and the monitor outputs a best-effort approximation of it. The quality of the approximation may depend on the resources that are available to the monitor. By taking to the limit the sequences of specification values and monitor outputs, we obtain precision-resource trade-offs also for limit monitoring. This paper provides a formal framework for studying such trade-offs using an abstract interpretation for monitors: For each natural number n, the aggregate semantics of a monitor at time n is an equivalence relation over all sequences of at most n observations so that two equivalent sequences are indistinguishable to the monitor and thus mapped to the same output. This abstract interpretation of quantitative monitors allows us to measure the number of equivalence classes (or “resource use”) that is necessary for a certain precision up to a certain time, or at any time. Our framework offers several insights. For example, we identify a family of specifications for which any resource-optimal exact limit monitor is independent of any error permitted over finite traces. Moreover, we present a specification for which any resource-optimal approximate limit monitor does not minimize its resource use at any time.
Einleitung
Authors: Muth Lydia
Published: September 2022

„Alkohol ist die am weitesten verbreitete Droge in unserer Gesellschaft“ (Körkel 2018). Besonders schwer betroffen unter Menschen mit Alkoholabhängigkeitsstörungen ist der Anteil der sogenannten Chronisch Mehrfachgeschädigt/Mehrfachbeeinträchtigt Abhängigkeitskranken (CMA) Menschen. Um die Bedarfserfassung und die anschließenden Hilfen personenzentriert, teilhabefördernd und krankheitsbildspezifisch ausrichten zu können, sowie um den volkswirtschaftlichen und gesellschaftlichen Schaden, welcher durch diese Klientel ohne sachgerechte Hilfe verursacht wird, so gering wie möglich zu halten, ist ein Instrument notwendig, welches eindeutig, praxisnah, zielgruppenspezifisch und transparent die Hilfebedarfe aufzeigt und daraus klar erkennbar Leistungen und den monetären Finanzierungsaufwand ableitet. Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit ist die Erstellung und Evaluierung eines solchen Instrumentes.

Im ersten Kapitel erfolgt eine überblicksartige Einführung in das Thema sowie dessen gesellschaftliche Relevanz sowie die Festlegung und Begründung des Arbeitszieles.
Diskussion
Authors: Muth Lydia
Published: September 2022

In Kapitel acht werden die angewandten Methoden wie auch die gewonnenen Ergebnisse diskutiert und bewertet. Des Weiteren erfolgt ein Vergleich des neu erstellten Verfahrens zur Erfassung des Finanzierungsbedarfes mit anderen für das Land Brandenburg relevanten Bedarfserfassungsinstrumenten (Brandenburger Instrument, ITP-Brandenburg). Die Arbeit schließt mit einem Ausblick auf weitere aus den Ergebnissen ableitbare mögliche Forschungsthemen.
Natural vs. artificial cannabinoid oils: the comparison of their antioxidant activities
Authors: Dawidowicz Andrzej L. , Typek Rafał , Olszowy-Tomczyk Małgorzata
Published: September 2022

In the wide range of products containing hemp ingredients, cannabinoid oils are the most popular. They have gained popularity not only among people struggling with various health ailments, but also those who search for a neutral way of taking care of their body and mind. The antioxidant activities of cannabinoid oils differing in the type of their main cannabinoid [i.e., Cannabigerol (CBG), Cannabidiol (CBD), Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), Cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) or Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (Δ9-THCA)] are compared and discussed in the paper. The oils with the same concentration of their main cannabinoid but prepared in different ways were applied in the experiments. Following the presented results, cannabinoid oils obtained from the plant extracts are characterized by evidently greater antioxidant activity than those prepared from pure cannabinoids. The essential difference in the antioxidant activity of the oils containing the neutral or acidic form of a given cannabinoid is observed only in the case of THC and THCA oils.
Effects of age simulation suits on psychological and physical outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Gerhardy Thomas H. , Schlomann Anna , Wahl Hans-Werner , Schmidt Laura I.
Published: September 2022

Age simulation suits (ASS) are widely used to simulate sensory and physical restrictions that typically occur as people age. This review has two objectives: first, we synthesize the current research on ASS in terms of the observed psychological and physical effects associated with ASS. Second, we analyze indicators able to estimate the validity of ASS in simulating “true” ageing processes. Following the PRISMA guidelines, eight electronic databases were searched (BASE, Cinhal, Cochrane, Google Scholar, ProQuest, PsychINFO, Pubmed, and Web of Science). Qualitative and quantitative studies addressing effects of ASS interventions regarding psychological outcomes (i.e., empathy, attitudes) or physical parameters (i.e., gait, balance) were included. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was applied for quality assessment. Of 1890 identified citations, we included 94 for full-text screening and finally 26 studies were examined. Publication years ranged from 2001 to 2021. Study populations were predominantly based on students in health-related disciplines. Results suggest that ASS can initiate positive effects on attitudes toward (dweighted = 0.33) and empathy for older adults (dweighted = 0.54). Physical performance was significantly reduced; however, there is only little evidence of a realistic simulation of typical ageing processes. Although positive effects of ASS are supported to some extent, more diverse study populations and high-quality controlled designs are needed. Further, validation studies examining whether the simulation indeed reflects “real” ageing are needed and should build on reference data generated by standardized geriatric assessments or adequate comparison groups of older adults.

Prospero registration: 232686.
The regime switching evidence of financial-economic-political risk in Turkey
Authors: Kirikkaleli Dervis , Alola Andrew Adewale
Published: September 2022

In recent time, Turkey could be said to have experienced different levels of Economic Risk, Financial Risk, and Political Risk from low- to high-level. This study investigates the linkage between country risks, namely Financial Risk, Economic Risk, and Political Risk (FEP risk) in Turkey for the period 1984Q1 to 2019Q1 by using threshold cointegration, Markow-switching regression (given the nonlinearity and structural breaks observed in the time series variables), and frequency domain causality approaches. The empirical findings of this study reveal that (i) nonlinear cointegration between Economic Risk, Financial Risk, and Political Risk in Turkey is statistically significant given the evidence of threshold cointegration test, which determines the structural breaks endogenously; (ii) there is positive linkage among the component of country risk at different volatility periods; (iii) there is a significant Granger causal linkage between Economic Risk, Financial Risk and Political Risk at the different frequency levels. The study is likely to open debate about the literature since the study concludes with a discussion on short-run and long-run implications for economic, political, and financial stabilises, thus offering policy suggestions for the policymakers in Turkey.
A Realism Metric for Generated LiDAR Point Clouds
Authors: Triess Larissa T. , Rist Christoph B. , Peter David , Zöllner J. Marius
Published: September 2022

A considerable amount of research is concerned with the generation of realistic sensor data. LiDAR point clouds are generated by complex simulations or learned generative models. The generated data is usually exploited to enable or improve downstream perception algorithms. Two major questions arise from these procedures: First, how to evaluate the realism of the generated data? Second, does more realistic data also lead to better perception performance? This paper addresses both questions and presents a novel metric to quantify the realism of LiDAR point clouds. Relevant features are learned from real-world and synthetic point clouds by training on a proxy classification task. In a series of experiments, we demonstrate the application of our metric to determine the realism of generated LiDAR data and compare the realism estimation of our metric to the performance of a segmentation model. We confirm that our metric provides an indication for the downstream segmentation performance.
Anti-predator behavioral responses of Italian agile frog tadpoles (Rana latastei) exposed to microplastics
Authors: Scribano Giovanni , Gazzola Andrea , Winkler Anna , Balestrieri Alessandro , Grioni Alice , Lastrico Giuditta , Tremolada Paolo , Pellitteri-Rosa Daniele
Published: September 2022

Microplastics (MPs) are nowadays abundant, persistent, and ubiquitous in the environment, representing a new threat for terrestrial, marine, and freshwater ecosystems. Although anuran populations and species are globally declining, the effect of MP exposure on this taxon has been poorly investigated. With the aim of assessing the effects of microplastic exposure on the defensive responses of Italian agile frog (Rana latastei) tadpoles, we exposed them to three different concentrations (1, 7, and 50 mg L−1) of a mixture of plastic polymers (HPDE, PVC, PS, and PES) for 2 weeks. Then, we measured the total distance covered by individual tadpoles before and after exposure to tadpole-fed dragonfly larvae (Aeshna cyanea) cues. As expected, predation risk sharply lowered the total distance travelled by tadpoles; however, MP concentration did not affect their defensive performances. We also collected data on tadpole development, activity, and mortality. In contrast with previous experiments, neither tadpole growth nor mortality varied with MP concentration. Our results indicate that the intensity of MP effects on growth and development may depend on tadpole size, with large tadpoles being less susceptible to the negative effects of MP exposure.
Olfaction in phytophagous ladybird beetles: antennal sensilla and sensitivity to volatiles from host plants in Chnootriba elaterii
Authors: Piersanti Silvana , Saitta Valerio , Rebora Manuela , Salerno Gianandrea
Published: September 2022

Olfaction and chemical ecology in phytophagous ladybird beetles have been largely ignored so far. The present paper describes for the first time basiconic, grooved, and trichoid porous olfactory sensilla on the antennae of the phytophagous ladybird Chnootriba elaterii (Epilacnini) and demonstrates the sensitivity of the antennae to Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from host plants, belonging to common and less common Cucurbitaceae crops and wild species (Citrullus lanatus, Cucumis melo, Cucumis sativus, Cucurbita pepo, Cucurbita moschata, Lagenaria siceraria, Luffa cylindrica, and Ecballium elaterium). Epilachnini ladybirds are phytophagous, with adult and larvae feeding on various Cucurbitaceae, Fabaceae, and Solanaceae. Notwithstanding some species are serious pests in crops, their chemical ecology has been largely disregarded so far. The present paper discusses the ultrastructure of antennal sensilla (scanning electron microscopy-SEM) and the electroantennographic recordings (EAG) from the olfactory sensilla responding to the proposed chemicals, also considering the literature on chemical ecology and olfaction of aphidophagous ladybugs. In particular, antennal sensilla are similar to those described in predatory species but in Epilachnini they are much more numerous on the apical flagellum, probably because involved in host plant location and selection. This research can be considered a first step in developing semiochemical-based and sustainable control strategies for melon ladybird in crops.
Volume Growth Estimates of Gradient Ricci Solitons
Authors: Chan Pak-Yeung , Ma Zilu , Zhang Yongjia
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we survey the volume growth estimates for shrinking, steady, and expanding gradient Ricci solitons. Together with the known results, we also prove some new volume growth estimates for expanding gradient Ricci solitons.
Overall frailty gauged in victims of the Italian plague (Imola, 1630–1632): was plague an indiscriminate killer?
Authors: Zedda Nicoletta , Rinaldo Natascia , Gualdi-Russo Emanuela , Bramanti Barbara
Published: September 2022

Plague is an epidemic-prone infectious disease that has affected humanity with catastrophic effects throughout almost its entire history. One of the most intriguing questions of the last years is whether plague kills indiscriminately. To address the question regarding pre-existent health conditions, this study aims to assess the overall frailty of plague victims and compare it with a sample of non-plague victims from the same period and area. Frailty was assessed using the biological index of frailty (BIF) on two skeletal series dated to the seventeenth century from north-eastern Italy: one of plague victims from the Imola’s Lazzaretto (n = 93) and another from an attritional cemetery located in Ravenna (n = 58). Comparisons between the BIF values of the two samples were performed separately by sex and age classes. Cox proportional hazards regression was conducted to analyze factors associated with the risk of dying from plague. The age-adjusted ANCOVA test revealed no significant differences in BIF results between the two samples. However, according to Cox’s regression, individuals in the lowest BIF category (the least frail) had a significantly higher hazard of dying from plague. Although we found no differences between the mean frailty values of plague and non-plague victims in the univariate analysis, individuals with a low level of frailty showed a higher hazard of dying from plague than from other causes. In fact, otherwise healthier individuals (i.e., with low levels of frailty) could be found only among plague victims.