bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Signal Shaping in Solid State Detector Spectrometers
Authors: Mikhailov Mikhail , Panteleev-Simeonova Lilianna
Published: November 2022

The performance of the most widely used shapers in solid state detector spectrometers is investigated in respect to noise suppression and count rate ability. Three shaper types have been experimentally checked with two detector types – X-ray Silicon Drift Detector and HPGe gamma detector. The results show small difference in noise line width and negligible difference in obtainable energy resolution while the high count rate performance depends noticeably on shaper type selected. This allows for simultaneous optimization of noise and count rate performance.
PredictION: a predictive model to establish the performance of Oxford sequencing reads of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Valencia-Valencia David E. , Lopez-Alvarez Diana , Rivera-Franco Nelson , Castillo Andres , Piña Johan S. , Pardo Carlos A. , Parra Beatriz
Published: November 2022

The optimization of resources for research in developing countries forces us to consider strategies in the wet lab that allow the reuse of molecular biology reagents to reduce costs. In this study, we used linear regression as a method for predictive modeling of coverage depth given the number of MinION reads sequenced to define the optimum number of reads necessary to obtain >200X coverage depth with a good lineage-clade assignment of SARS-CoV-2 genomes. The research aimed to create and implement a model based on machine learning algorithms to predict different variables (e.g., coverage depth) given the number of MinION reads produced by Nanopore sequencing to maximize the yield of high-quality SARS-CoV-2 genomes, determine the best sequencing runtime, and to be able to reuse the flow cell with the remaining nanopores available for sequencing in a new run. The best accuracy was −0.98 according to the R squared performance metric of the models. A demo version is available at https://genomicdashboard.herokuapp.com/.
O marketing de relacionamento com associados pessoa física em unidade de atendimento de uma cooperativa de crédito na região celeiro do Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Zamberlan Luciano , Sparemberger Ariosto , Cappellari Gabriela
Published: November 2022

O presente estudo avalia o relacionamento estabelecido entre o Sicredi - Unidade de Atendimento de Bom Progresso RS e seus associados pertencentes à carteira Pessoa Física, e apresenta um conjunto de proposições para a organização em estudo. A pesquisa classifica-se como exploratória, descritiva, bibliográfica, documental, estudo de campo e participante. A coleta de dados secundários foi realizada por meio de uma pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. Os dados primários foram coletados através da aplicação de um questionário baseado na Escala de Wilson e Vlosky (1997) para avaliação do relacionamento. A confiança e o comprometimento foram percebidos pelos associados como mais importante para o relacionamento. Em relação ao sexo, se pode perceber, de forma geral que as mulheres demonstram-se mais confiáveis e fieis à organização, porém não transformam estes fatores em negócios. Já os homens demonstram-se menos confiáveis no relacionamento, porém negociam mais produtos e serviços com a organização. Referente ao tempo de associação, quanto menor tempo de relacionamento maior é a satisfação dos associados. Os resultados obtidos demonstram que existe um apropriado relacionamento entre organização e seus associados.
Recuperação de crédito estimada pela análise de sobrevivência
Authors: Borelli Elizabeth , Lucena Bruna Dias
Published: November 2022

NPLs (Non-PerformingLoans), ou Créditos Não Performados são passivos resultantes de créditos inadimplentes. O mercado de compra e venda desse tipo de ativos vem crescendo em território nacional, alavancada pela expansão de crédito iniciada em meados de 2003. É de interesse de muitas empresascederem seus passivos em atraso para conseguir recuperar parte de seus recursos, além de eliminar o saldo devedor dos balanços, melhorando seus resultados. O passo inicial para a cessão de carteiras em atraso é estimar seu valor e projetar o montante com potencial de recuperação. Entretanto, existe uma hipótese pouca avaliada pelos investidores: a probabilidade do devedor estar vivo para quitar sua dívida. O objetivo deste artigoé verificar o impacto da probabilidade de sobrevivência do devedor na recuperação de crédito. Os resultados apontam que, ao considerar o fator atuarial de sobrevivência, a estimativa da recuperação tende a cair.
Estratégias e serviços públicos municipais no contexto da cidade digital estratégica
Authors: Júnior Edson Modesto de Araújo , Rezende Denis Alcides , Almeida Giovana Goretti Feijó de
Published: November 2022

A complexidade das cidades envolve as estratégias e os serviços públicos transacionais municipais, envolvendo a tomada de decisões importantes relacionadas a estratégias da administração pública. O objetivo é analisar as estratégias da cidade e os serviços transacionais no contexto da cidade digital estratégica. A metodologia da pesquisa adotou um estudo de caso com abordagem qualitativa e protocolo de pesquisa com 6 variáveis. Os resultados auferidos foram que o foco dos serviços públicos transacionais e das estratégias da cidade estão concentrados na temática governo. Isso mostra que as demais temáticas da cidade precisam ainda evoluir no que tange aos serviços públicos e estratégias da cidade. A conclusão reitera que há estratégias e serviços transacionais municipais em Porto Velho no contexto da cidade digital estratégica, podendo auxiliar na qualidade de vida dos cidadãos.
Análise de viabilidade econômica em sistema de pastejo irrigado rotacionado silvipastoril aplicado a produção de leite
Authors: Martins Lucas Carvalho , Tinoco Cynara mendonça Moreira , Martins Gleyzer , Cezarino Luciana Oranges , Scanavez Pedro Henrique Faccirolli , Martins Jacqueline Campoi , De Matos Lydia Cheibub
Published: November 2022

A produção de leite no Brasil é uma atividade muito antiga, e envolve diversos produtores, cada qual com seu tamanho de propriedade e formas de se produzir. Esse setor tem se tornado cada vez mais competitivo e exigente em termos de organização, qualidade de produto, bem-estar animal e mão de obra envolvida. A irrigação de pastagem é uma metodologia eficaz para otimizar a produção leiteira, porque diminui os gastos com ensilagem ou alimentação no período de estiagem e garante uma alimentação saudável e de ótima qualidade aos animais diretamente ao pasto. O sistema de pastejo rotacionado silvipastoril integrado a irrigação, garante o bem-estar animal, maior produção por área, diferentes tipos de produção num mesmo espaço e sustentabilidade. O objetivo deste trabalho consiste em avaliar o investimento da utilização do sistema de irrigação de baixo custo consorciada com o pastejo rotacionado silvipastoril na produção de leite em pequenas propriedades rurais e verificar os principais indicadores de desempenho desse sistema. Os resultados obtidos mostram que é possível a implementação do projeto com o retorno sobre investimento a partir do sétimo ano e que o projeto é viável.
Typology of Fermented Porridges and Socio-demographic Characteristics of Respondents in the Northern Part of Benin
Authors: Karimou Rachidatou , Sina Haziz , Agossou Essé A. , Boya Bawa , Assogba Sylvestre A. , Socohou Akim , Semassa Josiane A. , Attakpa Eugène S. , Baba-Moussa Farid , Adjanohoun Adolphe , Baba-Moussa Lamine
Published: November 2022

Fermentation is an ancestral process and one of the most used economic methods in the preservation and transformation of cereal-based food raw materials. They are essentially rich in carbohydrates, but they can also be a source of micronutrients such as iron and are used in many traditional culinary preparations, in particular fermented porridges. The aim of this study is to identify the variability of fermented cereal-based porridges produced and consumed in northern Benin. Thus, 315 producers and consumers were randomly interviewed in nine localities of northern Benin. First, field surveys were carried out in the traditional areas of porridge production and consumption in the northern region of Benin in order to establish the consumption map of fermented porridges. Secondly, interviews and occasional conversations were used for sample collection as well as occasional interviews (individual survey). During our investigation, eight (koko, bobossou, gbangba, apkan, sagagnega, akloui, bita and fourra) porridge were reported. Corn, millet and sorghum are cereals that are used for proceeding those porridges. The interviewed people are predominantly (35.53%) between 18 and 25 years old of age followed by those aged between 25 and 31 years old (30.82%). Mostly (63.21%) women were interviewed with a sex ratio (M/F = 0.58) and involved in the production of traditional porridge. More than 36% of respondents had at least secondary education, 30.82% are uneducated, 22.64% have primary education and 10.06% had at least university level. A significant association was observed between the cereal used and the type of porridge (p<0.001). It can be seen that the marketing and consumption of different porridges is associated with different communes in northern Benin. The method of preserving these porridges and their processing differs from one producer to another or from one consumer to another. It also differs from one municipality to another.
An Improved Prediction Model of Pig Price
Authors: Xiaohui Gong , Chuang Cao
Published: November 2022

In many agricultural products, pig price fluctuation has a significant impact on price level and consumer price index, so accurate prediction of pig price is of great significance for pig market research and production. In order to predict the price of pigs more accurately in the short term, Attention-LSTM prediction model (a short-term memory neural network based on attention mechanism) is established. The results show that: compared with the traditional LSTM forecasting model, the Attention-LSTM model has higher prediction accuracy, and this model has a good effect on the short-term prediction of pig prices.
Effects of Seed Provenance on Plant Establishment Index, Seedling Vigor Index and Speed of Germination of Physic Nut (Jatropha curcas L.) in Sokoto State, Nigeria
Authors: Muhammad U. S. , Aliyu M. , Sharu M. B.
Published: November 2022

The study on effects of seed provenance on plant establishment index, seedling vigor index and speed of germination of Jatropha curcas L. was carried out during 2019 raining season, at Teaching and Research Farm, Shehu Shagari College of Education Sokoto, Nigeria. Jatropha seeds were collected from different live hedges of plant in the State, from four local government areas in each of senatorial district. The treatments consisted of 16 different accessions of Jatropha, laid out in a completely randomized design, replicated three times. Experimental land was ploughed manually using hand hoe and leveled using rakes. Fifteen rows of ridges at 0.5m apart were constructed. Seeds were planted in June, 2019 through dibbling. Two seeds per hole at a spacing of 0.5 x 0.5m. Which were later on thinned to a plant per stand after germination. Fertilizer was applied at one month after planting (IMAP). Data collected was subjected to the analysis of variance (ANOVA), using the statistical analysis system (SAS, 2003). Significant differences in the treatments means were separated using the Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The result obtained indicated statistically significant (P<0.05) variations among different seed accessions on parameters observed at the various periods of the observation. Seed accessions at SE1, SE3 and SW3 performed better than the rest the rest of the seed accession sources investigated. Therefore, it can be recommended for the environment of the study area for a maximum production dividend to the farmers and the other stakeholders in the production enterprise of the crop.
Crinum glaucum Bulb Extract Improves the Lipid Profile of Endotoxin-Induced Wistar Rats
Authors: Ogunrinola Olabisi O. , Kanmodi Rahmon I. , Adeyemo Gideon A. , Ogunrinola Oluwaseyi A. , Olatunji Kehinde O. , Fayemi Aleem O. , Sunday Amaka J. , Adu Oluwatosin B. , Elemo Babajide O.
Published: November 2022

Background and Objective: Medicinal plants are widely known as sources of potential that are used in traditional medicine. The effect of Crinum glaucum (C. glaucum) aqueous extract on the lipid profile of endotoxin-induced rats was evaluated.

Methodology: Fifty Wistar rats (male and female) were divided randomly into five groups (n = 5). Group 1 is the control group. Group 2 was administered C. glaucum aqueous extract (1000 mg/kg body weight). Group 3 was endotoxin-induced with 1 ml/kg body weight single dose of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 4 hours. Group 4 was given LPS (4 hours) and treated with C. glaucum aqueous extract. Group 5 was administered C. glaucum aqueous extract, LPS, and C. glaucum aqueous extract. At the end of administration, blood and organs (brain, heart, lungs, liver, and kidney) were harvested for the lipid profile (triglyceride, cholesterol, and phospholipid) assay analysis using a spectrophotometric method.

Results: The reduction of cholesterol, triglyceride, and phospholipid concentrations is the hallmark of endotoxin, as revealed in this study. While C. glaucum administration significantly (p<0.05) reduced cholesterol concentrations, there was an up- or down-regulation of triglyceride and phospholipid concentrations in the male compartments compared to the control. A similar trend was observed in the female compartment. Data also revealed that while LPS causes a reduction in lipid profiles, the administration of C. glaucum reverses the effect.

Conclusion: The findings of the research suggest that C. glaucum has an ameliorative and therapeutic effect in improving lipid dysfunctions.
Growth and Yield of Finger Millet as Influenced by Tillage and Organic Nutrient Management under Finger Millet-french Bean Cropping System
Authors: Sulochna . , Alam Md. Parwaiz , Singh S. K.
Published: November 2022

A field experiment on ‘Growth and yield of finger millet as influenced by tillage and organic nutrient management under finger millet-french bean cropping system’ was conducted at Agronomical Research Farm, Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke, Ranchi, Jharkhand during 2020-21 and 2021-22. The experiment laid out in a split-plot design with three replication. The experiment consisted of four main plot treatments viz., conventional tillage–conventional tillage (CT–CT), conventional tillage–zero tillage (CT–ZT), zero tillage–conventional tillage (ZT–CT) and zero tillage–zero tillage (ZT-ZT) and subplot has four treatments with different sources of organic nutrient management viz., 100% N through FYM, 100% N through vermicompost, 50% N through FYM + 50% N through vermicompost and 75% N through FYM + 25% N through vermicompost. Significantly highest value of number of tillers (121.15), leaf area index at 90 DAS (2.65), dry matter accumulation at maturity (865.61 g/m2), crop growth rate at 90 DAS-maturity (9.47 g/m2/day), number of effective tillers (112.96), number of fingers/ear (6.66), number of grains/ear (1085.26), ear weight (6.59 g), grain (23.90 q/ha) and straw yield (38.85 q/ha) were observed in conventional tillage- conventional tillage. Among organic source, 100% N through vermicompost gave significant maximum value of number of tillers (121.37), leaf area index at 90 DAS (2.67), dry matter accumulation at maturity (873.36 g/m2), crop growth rate at 90 DAS-maturity (9.67 g/m2/day), number of effective tillers (113.12), number of fingers/ear (6.76), number of grains/ear (1094.19), ear weight (6.61 g), grain (24.25 q/ha) and straw yield (38.93 q/ha).
Joseph Anderson (1832–1916) and the Scottish historical collection in the Antiquities Museum, 1869 to 1892
Authors: Holder Julie
Published: November 2022

Joseph Anderson (1832–1916) was an influential figure within the history of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and Scottish archaeology during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. But while Anderson is best known for his contribution to the development of Scottish prehistoric and early medieval archaeology, there has been less focus on his role in expanding and studying the Society’s Scottish historical collection. This article considers the ways in which Scottish historical material culture was displayed in the Antiquities Museum and investigated by Anderson from 1869 until 1892, with arrangements in Scotland compared to other national museums in the British Isles and Europe. The Society’s archives and Anderson’s publications have been critically examined within this study to demonstrate that Anderson’s archaeological background influenced his approach to studying historic objects and contributed to his vision of a unified Scottish cultural history contextualised through international comparisons. This article also seeks to show how Anderson was in a privileged position as keeper of the museum for 43 years, allowing him to systematise and apply ideas and methodologies to the Scottish historical collection that had been developing within the Society both prior to and during his keepership.
Caroline Rosa Wickham-Jones, MA MSocSci FSA HonFSAScot MCIfA
Authors: Harden Jill , Bates Martin , Bates Richard , Britton Kate , Clarke Ann , Dawson Sue , Finlay Nyree , Macinnes Lesley , Noble Gordon , Shepherd Lekky
Published: November 2022

Caroline was a prolific, dedicated and accomplished academic of Scotland’s prehistory with an exemplary publication record.
Statin Use and Survival Among Men Receiving Androgen-Ablative Therapies for Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Jayalath Viranda H. , Clark Roderick , Lajkosz Katherine , Fazelzad Rouhi , Fleshner Neil E. , Klotz Laurence H. , Hamilton Robert J.
Published: November 2022

Importance

Epidemiological evidence supports a role for statins in improving survival in advanced prostate cancer, particularly among men receiving androgen-ablative therapies.

Objective

To study the association between statin use and survival among men with prostate cancer receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) or androgen receptor axis–targeted therapies (ARATs).

Data Sources

This systemic review and meta-analysis used sources from MEDLINE, EMBASE, Epub Ahead of Print, Cochrane Clinical Trials, Cochrane Systematic Reviews, and Web of Science from inception to September 6, 2022.

Study Selection

Observational studies reporting associations of concurrent statin use and survival outcomes (in hazard ratios [HRs]).

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Two authors independently abstracted all data. Summary estimates pooled multivariable HRs with 95% CIs using the generic inverse variance method with random-effects modeling. A priori specified subgroup and sensitivity analyses were undertaken, and heterogeneity, study quality, and publication bias were evaluated. Confidence in the evidence was assessed using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Overall mortality and prostate cancer–specific mortality (PCSM).

Results

Twenty-five cohorts of 119 878 men (65 488 statin users [55%]) with more than 74 416 deaths were included. Concurrent statin use was associated with a 27% reduction in the risk of overall mortality (HR, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.66-0.82]; I2 = 83%) and a 35% reduction in the risk of PCSM (HR, 0.65 [95% CI, 0.58-0.73]; I2 = 74%), with substantial heterogeneity in both estimates. Subgroup analyses identified a PCSM advantage associated with statins for men receiving ARATs compared with ADT alone (HR, 0.40 [95% CI, 0.30-0.55] vs 0.68 [95% CI, 0.60-0.76]; P = .002 for difference). Confidence in the evidence was rated low for both outcomes.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this meta-analysis show that concurrent statin use was associated with reduced overall mortality and PCSM among men receiving androgen-ablative therapies for advanced prostate cancer. These findings are limited by the observational nature of the data and residual unexplained interstudy heterogeneity. Randomized clinical trials are warranted to validate these results.
Dropout and recidivism are partly explained by emotional decoding and perspective taking deficits of intimate partner violence perpetrators
Authors: Romero‐Martínez Ángel , Lila Marisol , Sarrate‐Costa Carolina , Comes‐Fayos Javier , Moya‐Albiol Luis
Published: November 2022

Professionals and researchers have dedicated important efforts to understanding the underlying factors that explain the failure to complete interventions (dropout) and the recidivism of men convicted of intimate partner violence (IPV) against their female partners. There is a growing interest in measuring emotional decoding and empathic deficits in IPV perpetrators to better understand dropout and recidivism proneness, due to their direct impact on behavioral regulation. In the current study, we first aimed to examine whether the emotional decoding abilities of facial expressions and empathic abilities (cognitive and emotional), as well as their interrelationships in IPV perpetrators (n = 561), would explain dropout, treatment attendance, and recidivism (risk and official) once treatment ended. Our results allowed us to conclude that emotional decoding abilities and perspective taking (cognitive empathy) were significantly and negatively associated with dropout and recidivism. Two moderation models were significant. On the one hand, participants with low emotional decoding abilities presented lower intervention doses the lower their perspective taking. Furthermore, the percentage of participants that reoffended was higher among individuals with low and moderate perspective taking who dropped out. Therefore, our study highlights the importance of conducting emotional decoding and empathic assessments during the initial stages of intervention programs to clearly outline the therapeutic needs of IPV perpetrators. This would allow designing coadjuvant and complementary training programs that can support the main interventions by increasing treatment adherence and, in turn, reducing the risk of recidivism.
Inheritable Organic‐Inorganic Hybrid Interfaces with π–d Electron Coupling for Robust Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution at High‐Current‐Densities
Authors: Zhao Sheng , Yin Lijie , Deng Liming , Song Junnan , Chang Yu‐Ming , Hu Feng , Wang Hui , Chen Han‐Yi , Li Linlin , Peng Shengjie
Published: November 2022

Rational heterointerface engineering is crucial for superior and robust hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Herein, a delicate organic‐inorganic hybrid heterojunction based on the assembly of oxalate with polyaniline (PANI) for HER at high‐current‐densities is envisioned. Strong π–d electron coupling is achieved between the delocalized π electrons of PANI and the localized d electrons of oxalate metal sites. The CoC2O4 nanosheets are grown on nickel foam (NF) with Ni2+ ions substitution by the precursor etching. By virtue of the synergy of hetero ions and π–d electron coupling, metal sites obtain sufficient exposure and electronic structure optimization. Surprisingly, the phase transition of oxalate during HER in the alkaline environment does not weaken the π–d electronic coupling of the organic‐inorganic hybrid interfaces. Inheritable interfacial electron interaction provides a reliable guarantee for robust stability at high‐current‐densities while endowing the hybrid materials with extremely low overpotentials. As expected, post‐phase reconstructed Co0.59Ni0.41(OH)2@PANI/NF displays impressive HER activity, with a low overpotential of 43 mV@−10 mA cm−2 and robust stability at −1000 mA cm−2 for 30 h in the alkaline environment. This study sheds light on the rational heterostructure interface design and promotes the architecture of an impressive electrocatalysts system.
Synergistically Tailoring the Electronic Structure and Ion Diffusion of Atomically Thin Co(OH)2 Nanosheets Enable Fast Pseudocapacitive Sodium Ion Storage
Authors: Sun Baoyu , Zheng Wei , Lou Shuaifeng , Xie Bingxing , Cui Can , Zhang Guo‐Xu , Kong Fanpeng , Ma Yulin , Du Chunyu , Zuo Pengjian , Xie Jingying , Yin Geping
Published: November 2022

The fast‐growing development for high‐capacity anodes is undermined by their unsatisfactory rate performance and cycling stability stemming from sluggish ion‐migration speed, poor electronic conductivity, and mechanical degradation induced by the stress accumulation, which greatly hamper practical applications of Na‐ion batteries. Here, a combined experimental and theoretical study on atomic‐thickness (0.6 nm) Co(OH)2 nanosheet with surface defects (2D‐Co(OH)2@D NSs) and large interplanar spacing (0.465 nm) is presented, in which fast ion/electron transport is permitted to boost battery reactions. The mechanical degradation on cycling can be well buffered via tailoring mesopores across the Co(OH)2 nanosheet and an elastic solid–electrolyte interface is established by modulating the electronic structure of the Co(OH)2 surface. The 2D‐Co(OH)2@D NSs exhibit high rate‐capacity (>228 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1) and superior cyclic stability with negligible decay during 1300 cycles. This study will shed light on the development of electrode materials at atomic‐level design for high‐power and long‐lived performance.
Delivery of Induced Neural Stem Cells Through Mechano‐Tuned Silk–Collagen Hydrogels for the Recovery of Contused Spinal Cord in Rats
Authors: Davaa Ganchimeg , Hong Jin Young , Lee Jung‐Hwan , Kim Min Soo , Buitrago Jennifer O. , Li Yu‐Meng , Lee Hae‐Hyoung , Han Dong Wook , Leong Kam W. , Hyun Jung Keun , Kim Hae‐Won
Published: November 2022

Neural stem cells (NSC) have tremendous potential for therapeutic regeneration of diseased or traumatized neural tissues, including injured spinal cord. However, transplanted NSC suffer from low cell survival and uncontrolled differentiation, limiting in vivo efficacy. Here, this issue is tackled by delivery through silk–collagen protein hydrogels that are stiffness‐matched, stress‐relaxing, and shear‐thinning. The mechanically‐tuned hydrogels protect NSC reprogrammed from fibroblasts (iNSC) initially from injection shear‐stress, and enhance long‐term survival over 12 weeks. Hydrogel‐iNSC treatment alleviates neural inflammation, with reduced inflammatory cells and lesions than NSC‐only. The iNSC migrate from the hydrogel into surrounding tissues, secrete up‐regulated neurotrophic factors, and differentiate into neural cell subtypes, forming synapses. More serotonergic axons are observed in the lesion cavity, and locomotor functions are improved in hydrogel‐iNSC than in iNSC‐only. This study highlights the ability of mechanically‐tuned protein hydrogels to protect iNSC from the injection stress and severe inflammatory environment, allowing them to differentiate and function to recover the injured spinal cord.
Hydrogel Nanocomposite Adsorbents and Photocatalysts for Sustainable Water Purification
Authors: Kumar Neeraj , Gusain Rashi , Pandey Sadanand , Ray Suprakas Sinha
Published: November 2022

Hydrogels have been employed for water purification applications, but their performance and strength are unsatisfactory for widespread adoption. Recently, hydrogel nanocomposites have been proposed to resolve the inherent challenges faced by hydrogels for water treatment. This review comprehensively analyzes hydrogel nanocomposites for water treatment using adsorbent and photocatalysis techniques. The structure, classification, and tunable synthesis methods of hydrogels are explained. Further, how hydrogels can be incorporated with functional nanoparticles (NPs) and can be used as templates/precursors for developing advanced 3D architectures, including the formation of hydrogel nanocomposite beads and 3D printing objects are discussed. Finally, the structure‐property relationships of hydrogel nanocomposites are critically reviewed by considering introductory gelation chemistry, such as swelling characteristics, mechanical properties, stimuli‐responsiveness, and ionic/electronic conduction. The extensive cross‐linking of polymer chains with NPs offers high mass/charge transport, high surface areas, and enhanced polymer‐water interactions to achieve high‐performing adsorbents and photocatalysts. Several motivating examples of emerging NP‐containing hydrogel nanocomposites for use in adsorbents and photocatalysis have been discussed. Such efforts validated the excellent technological potential held by hydrogel nanocomposites for water purification applications. Finally, future directions of hydrogel nanocomposites for sustainable water treatment are proposed.
Photo‐Driven Semimetal–Semiconductor Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Fu Jintao , Nie Changbin , Sun Feiying , Jiang Hao , Li Yunjie , Li Genglin , Wei Xingzhan
Published: November 2022

Photodetectors that can simultaneously exhibit high gain, fast response, and low dark current are of significant value in modern optoelectronic systems. However, the recently reported photovoltage‐driven phototransistors are encountering certain challenges to meet the above requirement. In this work, a “photo‐driven” semi‐metal–semiconductor field‐effect transistor (photo‐sMESFET), based on graphene/silicon‐on‐insulator hybrid structure, is proposed and demonstrated to realize the synchronous optimization of gain, response speed, and dark current. Taking advantage of the unique semimetal characteristics of graphene, a high‐quality Schottky junction between graphene and silicon is produced, which can greatly deplete the silicon channel and suppress dark current. After illumination, the photovoltage at graphene–silicon interface efficiently shrinks the depletion layer and tremendously enhances the channel conductance. Combined with the high transconductance of the silicon channel, the photo‐sMESFET exhibits a gain of more than 104, a fast response time (τ) of 3 µs, and a low dark current (Jd) of 2.5 µA. Furthermore, the figure of merit, , evaluating the comprehensive performance on photodetectors, is up to 8 × 108 A1/2 cm s−1, which is superior to the counterparts of graphene‐based photodetectors. The results presented leverage a new detection strategy based on the semimetal–semiconductor photovoltaic effect.
Spin‐ and Space‐Multiplexing Metasurface for Independent Phase Controls of Quadruplex Polarization Channels
Authors: Sun Shi , Ma Hui Feng , Gou Yue , Zhang Tai Yi , Wu Liang Wei , Cui Tie Jun
Published: November 2022

Spin‐decoupled metasurfaces can realize independent phase controls of two orthogonally circularly polarized (CP) waves, and hence have attracted much attention in recent years. However, all previously reported metasurfaces capable of simultaneously manipulating the transmission and reflection of CP waves can only achieve two decoupled polarization conversion channels. In this work, a spin‐ and space‐multiplexing metasurface is proposed, that can achieve independent phase controls of four different CP conversion channels, including two cross‐polarized transmission channels and two co‐polarized reflection channels. The performance of the metasurface is experimentally validated by multi‐channel independent holographic imaging. The results show that four independent holograms are realized in four CP conversion channels by only using a single metasurface, which can greatly improve the information capacity of the metasurfaces and make full use of polarization and space resources.
Welfare implications of participating in agri‐value chains among vegetable farmers in Northern Ghana
Authors: Ma Wanglin , Abdul‐Rahaman Awal , Issahaku Gazali
Published: November 2022

This study investigates the welfare implications of agri‐value chain participation utilizing data collected from 423 smallholder vegetable farmers in northern Ghana. The endogenous switching regression (ESR) model estimates the determinants of agri‐value chain participation and their associated impacts on farmers' welfare, measured by household income and consumption expenditure. The ESR model accounts for selectivity bias associated with observed and unobserved factors. We find that agri‐value chain participation improves vegetable farmers' welfare. Participation significantly increases household income and consumption expenditure by about 22% and 40%, respectively. Our results also reveal that agri‐value chain participation is significantly determined by education, household size, mobile phone ownership, irrigation, farm size, farmer group membership, and extension visits. Variables such as education, access to irrigation, farm size, access to credit, farmer group membership, and extension are the significant determinants of farmers' welfare [EconLit Citations: D24, Q12, Q18].
The Effect of Molecular Conformations and Simulated “Self‐Doping” in Phenothiazine Derivatives on Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence
Authors: Gao Mingxue , Tian Yu , Li Xiaoning , Gong Yanxiang , Fang Manman , Yang Jie , Li Zhen
Published: November 2022

The research of purely organic room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials has drawn great attention for their wide potential applications. Besides single‐component and host–guest doping systems, the self‐doping with same molecule but different conformations in one state is also a possible way to construct RTP materials, regardless of its rare investigation. In this work, twenty‐four phenothiazine derivatives with two distinct molecular conformations were designed and their RTP behaviors in different states were systematically studied, with the aim to deeply understand the self‐doping effect on the corresponding RTP property. While the phenothiazine derivatives with quasi‐axial (ax) conformation presented better RTP performance in aggregated state, the quasi‐equatorial (eq) ones were better in isolated state. Accordingly, the much promoted RTP performance was achieved in the stimulated self‐doping state with ax‐conformer as host and eq‐one as guest, demonstrating the significant influence of self‐doping on RTP effect.
Grain Boundary Electronic Insulation for High‐Performance All‐Solid‐State Lithium Batteries
Authors: Yang Xiaofei , Gao Xuejie , Jiang Ming , Luo Jing , Yan Jitong , Fu Jiamin , Duan Hui , Zhao Shangqian , Tang Yongfu , Yang Rong , Li Ruying , Wang Jiantao , Huang Huan , Veer Singh Chandra , Sun Xueliang
Published: November 2022

Sulfide electrolytes with high ionic conductivities are one of the most highly sought for all‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLBs). However, the non‐negligible electronic conductivities of sulfide electrolytes (≈10−8 S cm−1) lead to electron smooth transport through the sulfide electrolyte pellets, resulting in Li dendrite directly depositing at the grain boundaries (GBs) and serious self‐discharge. Here, a grain‐boundary electronic insulation (GBEI) strategy is proposed to block electron transport across the GBs, enabling Li−Li symmetric cells with 30 times longer cycling life and Li−LiCoO2full cells with three times lower self‐discharging rate than pristine sulfide electrolytes. The Li−LiCoO2ASSLBs deliver high capacity retention of 80 % at 650 cycles and stable cycling performance for over 2600 cycles at 0.5 mA cm−2. The innovation of the GBEI strategy provides a new direction to pursue high‐performance ASSLBs via tailoring the electronic conductivity.
A Sustainable Approach for Graphene Oxide‐supported Metal N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes Catalysts
Authors: Nandeshwar Muneshwar , Mandal Suman , Kuppuswamy Subramaniam , Prabusankar Ganesan
Published: November 2022

Sustainable noble metal‐N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHC's) are a topic of arising concern in both the chemical industry and the academic community due to a growing consciousness of environmental pollution and scarcity. Recovering and reusing homogeneous catalysts from the reaction mixture requires a tremendous amount of capital investment in the chemical manufacturing industry. Heterogeneous catalysts are proved to have better functional groups tolerance; however, catalysts support largely influences the active catalyst sites to affect catalyst efficiency and selectivity. Thus the, choice of catalyst supports plays an almost decisive role in this emerging area of catalysis research. Graphene oxide (GO)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) support has a potential growth in heterogeneous catalysis owing to their commercial availability, considerably larger surface area, inert towards chemical transformations, and easy surface functionalization to attached metal complexes via covalent and non‐covalent aromatic π‐conjugates. To take advantage of two independently well‐established research areas of noble metal‐N‐heterocyclic carbenes and GO/rGO support via covalent or non‐covalent interactions approach would offer novel heterogeneous complexes with improved catalytic efficiency without sacrificing product selectivity. This unique concept of marrying metal‐N‐heterocyclic carbenes with GO/rGO support has potential growth in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry, however, limited examples are reported in the literature. In this perspective, a comprehensive summary of metal−NHC synthesis on GO/rGO support and synthetic strategies to graft M−NHC onto GO/rGO surface, catalytic efficiency, for the catalytic transformation are critically reviewed. Furthermore, a plausible mechanism for non‐covalent grafting methodology is summarized to direct readers to give a better understanding of M−NHC@rGO complexes. This would also allow the designing of engineered catalysts for unexplored catalytic applications.
Alcohol use is associated with affective and interoceptive network alterations in bipolar disorder
Authors: Martyn Fiona M. , McPhilemy Genevieve , Nabulsi Leila , Quirke Jacqueline , Hallahan Brian , McDonald Colm , Cannon Dara M.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Alcohol use in bipolar disorder (BD) is associated with mood lability and negative illness trajectory, while also impacting functional networks related to emotion, cognition, and introspection. The adverse impact of alcohol use in BD may be explained by its additive effects on these networks, thereby contributing to a poorer clinical outcome.

Methods

Forty BD‐I (DSM‐IV‐TR) and 46 psychiatrically healthy controls underwent T1 and resting state functional MRI scanning and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test‐Consumption (AUDIT‐C) to assess alcohol use. Functional images were decomposed using spatial independent component analysis into 14 resting state networks (RSN), which were examined for effect of alcohol use and diagnosis‐by‐alcohol use accounting for age, sex, and diagnosis.

Results

Despite the groups consuming similar amounts of alcohol (BD: mean score ± SD 3.63 ± 3; HC 4.72 ± 3, U = 713, p = .07), for BD participants, greater alcohol use was associated with increased connectivity of the paracingulate gyrus within a default mode network (DMN) and reduced connectivity within an executive control network (ECN) relative to controls. Independently, greater alcohol use was associated with increased connectivity within an ECN and reduced connectivity within a DMN. A diagnosis of BD was associated with increased connectivity of a DMN and reduced connectivity of an ECN.

Conclusion

Affective symptomatology in BD is suggested to arise from the aberrant functionality of networks subserving emotive, cognitive, and introspective processes. Taken together, our results suggest that during euthymic periods, alcohol can contribute to the weakening of emotional regulation and response, potentially explaining the increased lability of mood and vulnerability to relapse within the disorder.
Association between prediabetes and cognitive function in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Park Joah , Choi Seohee , Kim Ryul
Published: November 2022

Introduction

It remains largely unknown whether prediabetes is related to cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease (PD). This study aimed to assess the association between prediabetes and cognitive function in PD patients.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 262 PD patients (age, 69.8 ± 10.3 years; Hoehn–Yahr stage, 2.3 ± 0.8) were classified into diabetes (glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c] ≥6.5% or previously diagnosed, n = 76), prediabetes (5.7%–6.4%, n = 90), or diabetes free (≤5.6%, n = 96) groups. Cognitive function was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test.

Results

Both the diabetes and prediabetes groups had significantly lower MoCA scores (17.0 ± 6.6 and 18.0 ± 6.1, respectively) than the diabetes free group (20.0 ± 5.7), even after adjusting for potential confounders (p = .002 and p = .008, respectively). In the combined group of prediabetes and diabetes free patients, higher HbA1c levels significantly correlated with lower MoCA scores (p = .031). There was a significant interaction of diabetes status with age, but not with the duration of PD, on cognitive function.

Conclusion

In addition to diabetes, prediabetes may negatively affect cognitive function in PD patients. Further prospective longitudinal studies are necessary to clarify the impact of prediabetes on the cognitive trajectory of these patients.
Antioxidant Activity, Total Phenolic, Tannin, and Flavonoid Content of Five Plants Used in Traditional Medicine in Penjamo, Guanajuato
Authors: Barajas‐Ramírez Jahir Antonio , Cabrera‐Ramírez Angel Humberto , Aguilar‐Raymundo Victoria Guadalupe
Published: November 2022

In Mexico, plants are commonly used to alleviate various ailments, including controlling some chronic degenerative diseases through the regular consumption of decoctions, infusions, and teas. However, there is little scientific evidence consolidating traditional medicine within health systems. Therefore, this work determined the phytochemical profile of the most used plants to treat various ailments (Cedro rojo, Cancerina, Ortiguilla, Hierba de la golondrina, Hierba de arlomo) and their general consumption as infusions. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts were generated, while the phytochemical compound content in the extracts obtained was quantified. The results indicate that the ethanolic extracts showed the highest phenolic compound and tannin content, with the highest contents for Cedro rojo (831.04 mg L−1) and Cancerina (864.80 mg L−1). The antioxidant activity was also determined, and a significant difference was observed (p<0.05). The extracts with the highest antioxidant capacity were the ethanolic extracts ranging from 250 to 907 μMET mL−1, while the aqueous extracts ranged from 112 to 390 μMET mL−1. The compounds identified by high‐performance liquid chromatography characterization on the aqueous extracts highlighted the presence of chlorogenic acid>cinnamic acid>quercetin. In ethanolic extracts, the presence of chlorogenic acid>cinnamic acid>quercetin>gallic acid>ferulic acid>coumaric acid was highlighted. The correlation between bioactive compounds, type of extract, and antioxidant activity suggests a significant affinity of these phytochemical compounds for the ethanol solvent. The results indicate that these plants are good sources of antioxidant phenolics and can be incorporated for use as functional beverages. However, more studies are needed to corroborate their beneficial effect.
A Review on Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulations of Industrial Amine Absorber Columns for CO2 Capture
Authors: Jamali Mohammad , Azari Ahmad
Published: November 2022

CO2 emission is an important environmental issue leading to global climate change, notably an increase in global temperatures; therefore, it is so imperative to reduce CO2 emissions to the atmosphere. Absorption columns using amine‐based solutions are a promising approach for CO2 removal from industrial gas streams. Many modeling and simulation research have been performed on CO2 absorption columns in which computational fluid dynamics (CFD) strategy is very appropriate and well‐known. As CFD modeling and simulation is a fast‐developing method, the most recent review papers do not include the core research in this field of study. In this study, numerical simulations of CO2 absorption columns using CFD strategy have been carried out applying various types of amine‐based solutions. Furthermore, the effect of various types of packing mesh generation on the absorption columns' efficiency was studied. Investigation of synergetic influence such as application of various nanoparticles in different amine‐based solutionsand activators, double diameter packed bed absorption columns with different packings, rotating packed columns with double diameter are proposed for future studies.
Distance‐Triggered Distinct Aryl Migrations on Azidodiboranes
Authors: Liu Tong‐Tong , Chen Jiaxin , Guan Bing‐Tao , Lin Zhenyang , Shi Zhang‐Jie
Published: November 2022

Derived from structurally similar precursors, two different azidodiboranes went through distinct aryl migration reactions triggered by different boron‐boron separation distances. Biphenylene based diborane with a shorter boron‐boron distance underwent heterolateral aryl migration to form a seven‐membered azadiborepin, while xanthrene based diborane with a longer boron‐boron distance afforded a stable bis‐azidoborane scaffold. The pyrolysis of such a bis‐azidoborane led to eight‐membered oxazadiborocine through homolateral aryl migration and subsequent [3+2] cycloaddition. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations unveiled that the boron‐boron separation distances were the intrinsic factors for the distinct migrations.
Clinical efficacy and safety comparison of Watchman device versus ACP/Amulet device for percutaneous left atrial appendage closure in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation: A study‐level meta‐analysis of clinical trials
Authors: Bing Sun , Chen Rui Rui
Published: November 2022

Left atrial appendage occlusion is not inferior to oral anticoagulants in the prevention of stroke in several randomized controlled trials. However, the clinical efficacy and safety comparison of the Watchman and amplatzer cardiac plug (ACP)/Amulet devices for percutaneous left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) in patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation was controversial. A database search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Clinicaltrials.gov for trials that compared Watchman device vs ACP/Amulet device. The effective outcomes were stroke and systemic embolism. Safety outcomes were all‐cause death, cardiovascular death, and major bleeding. Device‐related complications included device‐related thrombus (DRT), peri‐device leaks (PDL > 5 mm). A total of 19 articles involving 6224 patients were included in the present study. The Watchman and ACP/Amulet groups comprised 3267 and 2957 patients, respectively. No statistically significant differences were detected in the stroke (odd ratio [OR]:1.24, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.92−1.67, p = .17, I2 = 0), systemic embolism (OR:1.10, 95% CI: 0.51−2.35, p = .81, I2 = 0%), all‐cause death (OR:0.97, 95% CI: 0.80−1.18, p = .77, I2 = 1%), cardiogenic death (OR:0.99, 95% CI: 0.77−1.29, p = .96, I2 = 0%), major bleeding (OR:1.18, 95% CI: 0.98−1.43, p = .08, I2 = 25%). DRT (OR:1.48, 95% CI: 1.06−2.06, p = .02, I2 = 0%) and PDL > 5 mm (OR:2.57, 95% CI: 1.63−4.04, p < .0001, I2 = 0%) were significantly lower in ACP/Amulet group compared to Watchman group. The effective and safety outcomes were comparable between two groups. ACP/Amulet group had significantly lower rates of DRT and PDL > 5 mm than Watchman group.