bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remediation of chlorinated solvents with Electrical Resistance Heating (ERH) at an active industrial site in Italy
Authors: Mori Piero , Baldock James , Gigliuto Andrea , Cappelletti Zaffaroni Mattia , Marino Cecilia
Published: September 2023

Italian legislation defines stringent groundwater chemical quality criteria, to be applied at a site’s downgradient property boundary, irrespective of whether the underlying aquifer is, or could be, used for water resource purposes. In some scenarios, the regulatory authorities may identify less stringent standards, but this rarely occurs. This means that many sites with groundwater contamination are managed using hydraulic barriers, as source zone remediation may not achieve the stringent groundwater standards required due to technology limits or time constraints; therefore, the parties responsible for contamination often decide to continue to operate these hydraulic barriers indefinitely. This article describes the first application in Italy of source treatment using Electrical Resistance Heating (ERH), a remediation technology capable of removing a large percentage of contaminant mass, at a site where a hydraulic barrier is operating within a low yielding aquifer that is not used for water supply. The implementation of this technology was possible since the source zone was far from the downgradient site boundary, thus making achievement of the stringent quality standards at the boundary possible within a reasonable timeframe. The ERH system recovered of about 600 kg of contaminants within a timeframe of 8 months and achieved a reduction of contaminant concentrations in the most impacted areas greater than 90%. This article also emphasizes that, in similar low yielding aquifers, setting less stringent groundwater standards at the site boundary whilst still protecting downgradient receptors may promote more widespread implementation of source remediation activities in Italy.
Application of physical clogging models to Managed Aquifer Recharge: a review of modelling approaches from engineering fields
Authors: Lippera Maria Chiara , Werban Ulrike , Vienken Thomas
Published: September 2023

Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) sites suffer from the long-lasting problem of clogging. The causes of clogging are physical, biological, chemical and mechanical processes and their complex interaction, with physical clogging being recognised as the predominant process. The intrusion and deposition of particles during water recharge affect the hydraulic properties of the infiltration surface, resulting in a decline in the infiltration capacity of the site over the operating years. Cleaning operations are necessary to restore the original infiltration rates. For this purpose, assessing the risk of clogging can determine the site’s vulnerability and improve the scheme’s design. Numerical models are essential to replicate physical clogging processes and predict the decline in infiltration rates. So far, predictive tools for physical clogging assessment have been missing in MAR literature. Hence, the purpose of this study is to analyse and reorganise physical clogging models from applied engineering fields dealing with water infiltration in natural heterogeneous systems. The modelling approaches are illustrated, starting from the main assumptions and conceptualisation of the soil volume and intruding particles. The individual processes are untangled from the multiple studies and reorganised in a systematic comparison of mathematical equations relevant to MAR applications. The numerical models’ predictive power is evaluated for transferability, following limitations and recommendations for a process-based model applicable to surface spreading schemes. Finally, perspectives are given for clogging risk assessment at MAR sites from modelling and site characterisation. The predictive tool could assist decision-makers in planning the MAR site by implementing cost-effective strategies to lower the risk of physical clogging.
The 6th National Meeting on Hydrogeology Flowpath 2023
Authors: Sapiano Manuel
Published: September 2023

Not available
Do glucocorticoids indicate stress? Meta-analysis reveals a tight association between glucocorticoids and metabolic rate
Authors: Jimeno Blanca , Verhulst Simon
Published: September 2023

Glucocorticoid (GC) variation has long been thought to reflect variation in organismal ‘stress’, but associations between GCs and Darwinian fitness components are diverse in magnitude, direction, and highly context-dependent. This paradox reveals our poor understanding of the causes of GC variation, contrasting with the detailed knowledge of the functional consequences of GC variation. Amongst an array of effects in many physiological systems, GCs orchestrate energy availability to anticipate and recover from predictable and unpredictable environmental fluctuations and challenges. Although this is mechanistically well-known, the extent to which GC levels are quantitatively explained by energy metabolism is unresolved. We investigated this association through meta-analysis, selecting studies of endotherms in which (1) an experiment was performed that affected metabolic rate and (2) metabolic rate and GC-levels were measured simultaneously. We found that an increase in metabolic rate was associated with an increase in GC levels in 20 out of 21 studies (32 out of 35 effect sizes). More importantly, there was a strong positive correlation between the increases in metabolic rate and GCs (p=0.003). This pattern was similar in birds and mammals, and independent of the nature of the experimental treatment. We conclude that metabolic rate is a major driver of GC variation within individuals. Stressors often affect metabolic rate, leading us to question whether GC levels provide information on ‘stress’ beyond the stressor’s effect on metabolic rate.
Association of an estrogen-sensitive Pax1-Col11a1-Mmp3 signaling axis with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Yu Hao , Khanshour Anas M. , Ushiki Aki , Otomo Nao , Koike Yoshinao , Einarsdottir Elisabet , Fan Yanhui , Antunes Lilian , Kidane Yared H. , Cornelia Reuel , Sheng Rory , Zhang Yichi , Pei Jimin , Grishin Nick V. , Evers Bret M. , Yin Cheung Jason Pui , Herring John A. , Terao Chikashi , Song You-Qiang , Gurnett Christina A. , Gerdhem Paul , Ikegawa Shiro , Rios Jonathan J. , Ahituv Nadav , Wise Carol A.
Published: September 2023

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a common and progressive spinal deformity in children that exhibits striking sexual dimorphism, with girls at more than five-fold greater risk of severe disease compared to boys. Despite its medical impact, the molecular mechanisms that drive AIS are largely unknown. We previously defined a female-specific AIS genetic risk locus in an enhancer near the
PAX1
gene. Here we sought to define the roles of
PAX1
and newly-identified AIS-associated genes in the developmental mechanism of AIS. In a genetic study of 9,161 individuals with AIS and 80,731 unaffected controls, significant association was identified with a variant in
COL11A1
encoding collagen (α1) XI (rs3753841; NM_080629_c.4004C>T; p.(Pro1335Leu); P=7.07e
−11
, OR=1.118). Using CRISPR mutagenesis we generated
Pax1
knockout mice (
Pax1
−/−
). In postnatal spines we found that Pax1 and collagen (α1) XI protein both localize within the intervertebral disc (IVD)-vertebral junction region encompassing the growth plate, with less collagen (α1) XI detected in

Pax1
−/−

spines compared to wildtype. By genetic targeting we found that wildtype
Col11a1
expression in growth plate cells (GPCs) suppresses expression of
Pax1
and of
Mmp3
, encoding the matrix metalloproteinase 3 enzyme implicated in matrix remodeling. However, this suppression was abrogated in the presence of the AIS-associated
COL11A1
P1335L
mutant. Further, we found that either knockdown of the estrogen receptor gene
Esr2
, or tamoxifen treatment, significantly altered
Col11a1
and
Mmp3
expression in GPCs. These studies support a new molecular model of AIS pathogenesis wherein genetic variation and estrogen signaling increase disease susceptibility by altering a
Pax1
-
Col11a1
-
Mmp3
signaling axis in the growth plate.
Estimating the one-repetition maximum on the leg-press exercise in female breast cancer survivors
Authors: Díez-Fernández David M. , Baena-Raya Andrés , García-Ramos Amador , Esteban-Simón Alba , Rodríguez-Pérez Manuel A. , Casimiro-Andújar Antonio J. , Soriano-Maldonado Alberto
Published: September 2023

We examined the accuracy of twelve different velocity-based methods for predicting the bilateral leg-press exercise one-repetition maximum (1RM) in breast cancer survivors. Twenty-one female breast cancer survivors (age 50.2 ± 10.8 years) performed an incremental loading test up to the 1RM. Individual load-velocity relationships were modeled by linear and quadratic polynomial regression models considering the mean velocity (MV) and peak velocity (PV) values recorded at five incremental loads (~45-55-65-75-85% of 1RM) (multiple-point methods) and by a linear regression model considering only the two distant loads (~45–85% of 1RM) (two-point method). The 1RM was always estimated through these load-velocity relationships as the load associated with a general (MV: 0.24 m/s; PV: 0.60 m/s) and an individual (MV and PV of the 1RM trial) minimal velocity threshold (MVT). Compared to the actual 1RM, the 1RMs estimated by all linear regression models showed trivial differences (Hedge’s g ranged from 0.08 to 0.17), very large to nearly perfect correlations (r ranged from 0.87 to 0.95), and no heteroscedasticity of the errors (coefficient of determination (r2) < 0.10 obtained from the relationship of the raw differences between the actual and predicted 1RMs with their average value). Given the acceptable and comparable accuracy for all 1RM linear prediction methods, the two-point method and a general MVT could be recommended to simplify the testing procedure of the bilateral leg-press 1RM in breast cancer survivors.
An Incubation Experiment on Screening of Black Gram Varieties for Tolerance to Saline Irrigation Water
Authors: Kamaleshwaran R. , Parameswari C. , Joshua S.
Published: September 2023

Water is a second most important resource in agriculture followed by land. The water availability for irrigation is often scarce, is one of the most critical input for agriculture production in most areas. Productivity in these areas can be enhanced by better management of rainwater and /or development of groundwater. So the present investigation was carried out to study the effect of saline water irrigation on the growth of blackgram. The various treatment included in the study were three ruling varieties of blackgram as factor V viz., V1- VBN 6, V2- VBN 4 and V3- VBN 3 and four salinity levels as factor S viz., S1-EC-3 dS m-1 and Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR) - 4; S2-EC- 3 dS m-1 and SAR-6; S3-EC-3 dS m-1 and SAR-8; S4-EC-6 dS m-1 and SAR-6. The experiment was laid out in a Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD) with three replications. The results of the study concluded that the soil application of saline water (EC-3 dS m-1 and SAR-4) irrigation to saline tolerant blackgram variety VBN 3 (S1V3) was identified as best treatment combination to realize the maximum germination of blackgram under saline water irrigation.
Extended scientific publications: an integrative review / Publicações científicas ampliadas uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Bueno Andressa Aline Bernardo , Queiroz Lícia Laura Craveiro de Souza , Ferreira Rosilene Alves , Alencar Maria Simone de Menezes
Published: September 2023

Objetivo: investigar o estado da arte das publicações científicas ampliadas voltadas para a dinamização da ciência. Metodologia: pesquisa qualitativa de cunho integrativo nas seguintes bases de dados: Web of Science, Library, Information Science and Technology Abstracts e Scopus via Portal Periódicos Capes, Dimensions, PLOS ONE, Base de Dados Referencial de Artigos de Periódicos em Ciência da Informação e Scientific Eletronic Library Online  no período de junho de 2022. Resultados: 11 artigos divididos em duas categorias: caracterização das publicações ampliadas e infraestrutura de suporte para as publicações ampliadas. Conclusão: apesar de multivariadas, as publicações ampliadas possuem características peculiares que as tornam objetos digitais compostos e dinâmicos e com melhor experiência para o usuário. Os artigos apontam que não há infraestrutura de suporte nas plataformas de periódicos e quando encontrado, se apresenta simples e com poucos recursos.
Reflections of the past on current brazilian nursing: fights, achievements, challenges and perspectives / Os reflexos do passado sobre a enfermagem atual brasileira: lutas, conquistas, desafios e perspectivas
Authors: Monteiro Cindy Leite , Castro Karla Oliveira de , Macedo Thaiane Furtado , Moncaio Ana Carolina Scarpel , Silva Luípa Michele
Published: September 2023

Objetivo: realizar uma análise histórica dos fatos que transcorreram na enfermagem e estabelecer um padrão sócio-histórico da participação feminina na profissão e dos paradigmas enfrentados até a atualidade no Brasil. Método: estudo teórico, reflexivo, fundamentado nos achados da literatura sobre a evolução histórica da enfermagem. Resultados: a prática profissional atual ainda apresenta os ecos das conjunturas vivenciadas no passado pela relação da mulher com o progresso da assistência à saúde. Além do papel feminino na estruturação da enfermagem, a íntima conexão entre a construção social da mulher e os estereótipos projetados sobre essa profissão, ainda impõe maiores dificuldades na luta pelo reconhecimento da enfermagem como ciência. Considerações finais: o modo de constituição da profissão contribuiu para que a enfermagem fosse vinculada à sexualização e ao machismo. Entretanto, a mesma tornou-se uma profissão com base científica e técnica. Rebaixar mulheres e reduzi-las ao seu corpo é discrepante das conquistas femininas atuais.
Role of Registries in Medicare Coverage of New Alzheimer Disease Drugs
Authors: Odouard Ilina C. , Socal Mariana P. , Anderson Gerard F.
Published: September 2023

This Viewpoint discusses how the design of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) registry could impact Medicare’s ability to evaluate whether monoclonal antibodies are reasonable and necessary for patients with Alzheimer disease and help physicians understand when the drug is most beneficial.
The Promise and Pitfalls of AI in the Complex World of Diagnosis, Treatment, and Disease Management
Authors: Voelker Rebecca
Published: September 2023

In this Medical News article, Ida Sim, MD, PhD, a primary care physician and computational precision health expert at the University of California, San Francisco, discusses the ramifications of using AI technologies in patient care.
Tyranny of the Rules
Authors: Dworkin Ronald W.
Published: September 2023

This essay describes the author’s experience with the application of medical guidelines in the treatment of patients.
Community Mobility and Depressive Symptoms During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the United States
Authors: Perlis Roy H. , Lunz Trujillo Kristin , Safarpour Alauna , Quintana Alexi , Simonson Matthew D. , Perlis Jasper , Santillana Mauricio , Ognyanova Katherine , Baum Matthew A. , Druckman James N. , Lazer David
Published: September 2023

Importance

Marked elevation in levels of depressive symptoms compared with historical norms have been described during the COVID-19 pandemic, and understanding the extent to which these are associated with diminished in-person social interaction could inform public health planning for future pandemics or other disasters.

Objective

To describe the association between living in a US county with diminished mobility during the COVID-19 pandemic and self-reported depressive symptoms, while accounting for potential local and state-level confounding factors.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This survey study used 18 waves of a nonprobability internet survey conducted in the United States between May 2020 and April 2022. Participants included respondents who were 18 years and older and lived in 1 of the 50 US states or Washington DC.

Main Outcome and Measure

Depressive symptoms measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9); county-level community mobility estimates from mobile apps; COVID-19 policies at the US state level from the Oxford stringency index.

Results

The 192 271 survey respondents had a mean (SD) of age 43.1 (16.5) years, and 768 (0.4%) were American Indian or Alaska Native individuals, 11 448 (6.0%) were Asian individuals, 20 277 (10.5%) were Black individuals, 15 036 (7.8%) were Hispanic individuals, 1975 (1.0%) were Pacific Islander individuals, 138 702 (72.1%) were White individuals, and 4065 (2.1%) were individuals of another race. Additionally, 126 381 respondents (65.7%) identified as female and 65 890 (34.3%) as male. Mean (SD) depression severity by PHQ-9 was 7.2 (6.8). In a mixed-effects linear regression model, the mean county-level proportion of individuals not leaving home was associated with a greater level of depression symptoms (β, 2.58; 95% CI, 1.57-3.58) after adjustment for individual sociodemographic features. Results were similar after the inclusion in regression models of local COVID-19 activity, weather, and county-level economic features, and persisted after widespread availability of COVID-19 vaccination. They were attenuated by the inclusion of state-level pandemic restrictions. Two restrictions, mandatory mask-wearing in public (β, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.15-0.30) and policies cancelling public events (β, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.22-0.51), demonstrated modest independent associations with depressive symptom severity.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, depressive symptoms were greater in locales and times with diminished community mobility. Strategies to understand the potential public health consequences of pandemic responses are needed.
A novel autosomal dominant ERLIN2 variant activates endoplasmic reticulum stress in a Chinese HSP family
Authors: Wang Juan , Zhao Rongjuan , Cao Hanshuai , Yin Zhaoxu , Ma Jing , Xing Yingming , Zhang Wei , Chang Xueli , Guo Junhong
Published: September 2023

Objective

Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) has been reported rarely because of a monoallelic variant in ERLIN2. The present study aimed at describing a novel autosomal dominant ERLIN2 pedigree in a Chinese family and exploring the possible mechanism of HSP caused by ERLIN2 variants.

Methods

The proband and his family underwent a comprehensive medical history inquiry and neurological examinations. Whole‐exome sequencing was performed on the proband, and Sanger sequencing was performed on some family members. HeLa cell lines and mouse primary cortical neurons were used for immunofluorescence (IF) and reverse transcription‐PCR (RT‐PCR).

Results

Seven patients were clinically diagnosed with pure spastic paraplegia in four consecutive generations with the autosomal dominant inheritance model. All patients presented juvenile‐adolescent onset and gradually worsening pure HSP phenotype. Whole‐exome sequencing of the proband and Sanger sequencing of all available family members identified a novel heterozygous c.212 T>C (p.V71A) variant in exon 8 of the ERLIN2 gene. The c.212 T>C demonstrated a high pathogenic effect score through functional prediction. RT‐PCR and IF analysis of overexpressed V71A revealed an altered ER morphology and increased XBP‐1S mRNA levels, suggesting the activation of ER stress. Overexpression of V71A in primary cultured cortical neurons promoted axon growth.

Interpretation

The novel c.212 T>C heterozygous variant in human ERLIN2 caused pure HSP. Moreover, c.212 T>C heterozygous variant in ERLIN2 increased ER stress and affected axonal development.
Zincophilic Anionic Hydrogel Electrolyte with Interfacial Specific Adsorption of Solvation Structures for Durable Zinc Ion Hybrid Supercapacitors
Authors: Guo Gaozhi , Ji Chenchen , Mi Hongyu , Yang Chao , Li Mengjun , Sun Chaorui , Sun Lixian
Published: September 2023

The rechargeable zinc ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZHSCs) are critically hindered by the low Coulombic efficiency and poor lifespan due to the continuous water‐induced side reactions and uncontrolled dendrite growth of the Zn anode. Herein, a zincophilic anionic hydrogel electrolyte (PSCA/Zn(OTf)2) is constructed by incorporating the dodecyl sulfate anions ((OSO3R)−) micelles to manipulate the solvation structures of Zn2+ cations via the moderate ion–ion coordination interactions for manipulating the Zn deposition behavior and interfacial chemistry on Zn electrode. Joint experimental and theoretical results show that the constructed solvated Zn2+ cations with the ionized (OSO3R)− electron donor significantly restrict the occurrence of adverse reactions (hydrogen evolution reactions). Concomitantly, the newly involved (OSO3R)− anions influence the adsorption configurations of solvated Zn2+ ions, which alter the electrocrystallization patterns for dendrite‐free growth and induce the oriented deposition for rapid reaction kinetics of Zn electrodes. As a proof of concept, the Zn||Zn symmetric cells with PSCA/Zn(OTf)2 exhibit high reversibility for deposition/stripping behavior with an extended long cycle span. Significantly, benefiting from the synergy of the modulatory electrolyte environment and the regulated adsorption configurations, a quasi‐solid‐state Zn||PSCA/Zn(OTf)2||N‐doped porous carbon material (NPC) ZHSC exhibits exceptional cycling stability for over 40 000 cycles with a low capacity decay (0.00027% per cycle).
Stretchable Multi‐Channel Ionotronic Electrodes for In Situ Dual‐Modal Monitoring of Muscle–Vascular Activity
Authors: Zhao Hang , Wang Shuai , Li Tengfei , Liu Yan , Tang Yao , Zhang Zhibo , Li Hanfei , Li Yan , Li Xiangxin , Li Guanglin , Liu Xijian , Tian Qiong , Liu Zhiyuan
Published: September 2023

In situ dual‐modal detection of electrophysiology (EP) and blood oxygen (BO) during muscle–vascular activity is crucial for healthcare and human–machine interaction. It requires an integrated monitoring system: a transparent electrode for EP detection directly adhered to skin and a near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRs) layer for BO detection. In particular, the multi‐channel, highly transparent, stretchable electrodes should be well developed. In this study, 16‐channel transparent ionotronic electrodes are fabricated based on a stretchable and printable ionogel, demonstrating excellent properties such as high transparency, large stretchability, wet adhesion, biocompatibility, softness, and long‐term stability. The electrode exhibits stable contact impedance for 24 h and a 2‐week periodic EP monitoring. The 16‐channel transparent ionotronic electrode outperforms stretchable gold electrodes by providing stable EP monitoring with minimal interference in NIRs for blood oxygen detection. An in situ negative correlation is found between EP intensity and blood oxygen level over time. This study paves the way for designing transparent ionotronics for synchronous optical‐related monitoring and highlights the potential use of an in situ dual‐modal monitoring system for the study of muscle–vascular coupling in neurocience and rehabilitation.
Superior Synergistic Osteogenesis of MXene‐Based Hydrogel through Supersensitive Drug Release at Mild Heat
Authors: Chen Ying , Liu Wenwen , Wan Sijie , Wang Huagao , Chen Yumin , Zhao Han , Zhang Chenguang , Liu Kaihui , Zhou Tuanfeng , Jiang Lei , Cheng Qunfeng , Deng Xuliang
Published: September 2023

Near‐infrared (NIR) responsive smart drug delivery systems could provide efficient osteogenesis through the synergy of heat and drugs. However, such systems are hampered by an inability to allow supersensitive drug release through mild heat. Here superior osteogenesis is demonstrated using a biocompatible dexamethasone (Dex)‐loaded MXene‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)‐co‐N‐(Hydroxymethyl) acrylamide hydrogel capable of the supersensitive release of Dex at ≈42 °C upon NIR irradiation. Furthermore, the hydrogel can significantly promote bone regeneration under NIR irradiation due to the synergistic anti‐apoptosis and osteogenic differentiation of bone‐derived mesenchymal stem cells induced by the mild heat and supersensitive release of Dex. The resulting osteogenesis efficiency of hydrogels surpass efficiencies previously reported for heat and drug stimulation and their combination. The synergistic osteogenesis strategy is characterized by near‐instantaneous, noninvasive, and precise treatment through temporal NIR irradiation.
Hollow Microfiber Assembly‐Based Endocrine Pancreas‐on‐a‐Chip for Sugar Substitute Evaluation
Authors: Tian Lingling , Shi Jingyan , Li Wei , Zhang Yuan , Gao Xinghua
Published: September 2023

With the increasing demand for low‐sugar, low‐calorie healthy diets, artificial sweeteners are widely used as substitutes for sugar in the food industry. Therefore, developing models that can better predict the effects of sugar substitutes on the human body is necessary. Here, a new type of endocrine pancreas‐on‐a‐chip is developed based on a microfiber assembly and its stimulation of pancreatic secretion by glucose or sugar substitutes is evaluated. This new endocrine pancreas‐on‐a‐chip is assembled using two components: (1) a cell‐loaded hollow methacrylate gelatin (GelMA)/calcium alginate (CaA) composite microfiber prepared by microfluidic spinning to achieve vascular simulation and material transport, and (2) a 3D pancreatic islet culture layer, which also serves as a fiber assembly microchip. Using this established organ chip, the effects of five sweeteners (glucose, erythritol, xylitol, sodium cyclamate, and sucralose) were investigated on pancreatic islet cell viability and insulin and glucagon secretion. The constructed endocrine pancreas‐on‐a‐chip has potential for the safety evaluation of sugar‐substituted food additives, which can expand the application of organ chips in the field of food safety and provide a new platform for evaluating various food additives.
Recent Advances in Electrocatalytic Hydrogenation Reactions on Copper‐Based Catalysts
Authors: Zheng Min , Zhang Junyu , Wang Pengtang , Jin Huanyu , Zheng Yao , Qiao Shi‐Zhang
Published: September 2023

Hydrogenation reactions play a critical role in the synthesis of value‐added products within the chemical industry. Electrocatalytic hydrogenation (ECH) using water as the hydrogen source has emerged as an alternative to conventional thermocatalytic processes for sustainable and decentralized chemical synthesis under mild conditions. Among the various ECH catalysts, copper‐based (Cu‐based) nanomaterials are promising candidates due to their earth‐abundance, unique electronic structure, versatility, and high activity/selectivity. Herein, recent advances in the application of Cu‐based catalysts in ECH reactions for the upgrading of valuable chemicals are systematically analyzed. The unique properties of Cu‐based catalysts in ECH are initially introduced, followed by design strategies to enhance their activity and selectivity. Then, typical ECH reactions on Cu‐based catalysts are presented in detail, including carbon dioxide reduction for multicarbon generation, alkyne‐to‐alkene conversion, selective aldehyde conversion, ammonia production from nitrogen‐containing substances, and amine production from organic nitrogen compounds. In these catalysts, the role of catalyst composition and nanostructures toward different products is focused. The co‐hydrogenation of two substrates (e.g., CO2 and NOxn, SO32–, etc.) via C─N, C─S, and C─C cross‐coupling reactions are also highlighted. Finally, the critical issues and future perspectives of Cu‐catalyzed ECH are proposed to accelerate the rational development of next‐generation catalysts.
Dynamic Evacuation Routes Navigation for Passenger Ship Fire Based on Intelligence Algorithms
Authors: Liu Linfan , Zhang Huajun , Yin Shibo , Chen Boyu , Du Jinfu , Su Yixin
Published: September 2023

To explore fire hazards and provide real‐time path navigation services for passenger ships, this study proposes an improved artificial fish swarm algorithm (IAFSA) to give the optimal evacuation route for evacuees when a passenger ship is on fire. First, the PyroSim software is used to simulate the fire scene on the sixth deck of the passenger ship. Through which the real‐time temperature, carbon monoxide (CO) concentration, and visibility of each exit are obtained, and the spread speed of the fire hazard area is determined. Then, the artificial fish swarm algorithm is improved by using the dynamic Visual and step, and the optimal path planning for the evacuation of passenger ships is achieved. The Visualized Evacuation Guidance System (VEGS) is developed to provide the optimal route for evacuees on the passenger ship. Finally, VEGS is applied to the fire evacuation of passenger ships. The results show that VEGS can provide the optimal evacuation path for evacuees and avoid detours in fire hazard areas compared with other algorithms. Seventy‐five percent of the evacuees who used VEGS in the event of a passenger ship can escape in a time shortened by up to 40.8%.
Co3O4 Quantum Dots Intercalation Liquid‐Crystal Ordered‐Layered‐Structure Optimizing the Performance of 3D‐Printing Micro‐Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhou Huijie , Sun Yangyang , Yang Hui , Tang Yijian , Lu Yiyao , Zhou Zhen , Cao Shuai , Zhang Songtao , Chen Songqing , Zhang Yizhou , Pang Huan
Published: September 2023

The effects of near surface or surface mechanisms on electrochemical performance (lower specific capacitance density) hinders the development of 3D printed micro supercapacitors (MSCs). The reasonable internal structural characteristics of printed electrodes and the appropriate intercalation material can effectively compensate for the effects of surface or near‐surface mechanisms. In this study, a layered structure is constructed inside an electrode using an ink with liquid‐crystal characteristics, and the pore structure and oxidation active sites of the layered electrode are optimized by controlling the amount of Co3O4‐quantum dots (Co3O4 QDs). The Co3O4 QDs are distributed in the pores of the electrode surface, and the insertion of Co3O4 QDs can effectively compensate for the limitations of surface or near‐surface mechanisms, thus effectively improving the pseudocapacitive characteristics of the 3D‐printed MSCs. The 3D printed MSC exhibits a high area capacitance (306.13 mF cm−2) and energy density (34.44 µWh cm−2 at a power density of 0.108 mW cm−2). Therefore, selecting the appropriate materials to construct printable electrode structures and effectively adjusting material ratios for efficient 3D printing are expected to provide feasible solutions for the construction of various high‐energy storage systems such as MSCs.
The oldest known clones of Salix herbacea growing in the Northern Apennines, Italy are at least 2000 years old
Authors: Centenaro Giada , Petraglia Alessandro , Carbognani Michele , Piotti Andrea , Hudek Csilla , Büntgen Ulf , Crivellaro Alan
Published: September 2023

Premise

Dominant in many ecosystems around the world, clonal plants can reach considerable ages and sizes. Due to their modular growth patterns, individual clonal plants (genets) can consist of many subunits (ramets). Since single ramets do not reflect the actual age of genets, the ratio between genet size (radius) and longitudinal annual growth rate (LAGR) of living ramets is often used to approximate the age of clonal plants. However, information on how the LAGR changes along ramets and how LAGR variability may affect age estimates of genets is still limited.

Methods

We assessed the variability of LAGR based on wood‐section position along the ramets and on the duration of the growing season on three genetically distinct genets of Salix herbacea growing in the Northern Apennines (Italy). We compared genet ages estimated by dividing genet radius by the LAGRs of its ramets.

Results

LAGR increased significantly from the stem apex to the root collar; indicating that ramet growth rate decreased with time. Furthermore, a difference of ca. 2 weeks in the onset of the growing period did not impact LAGR. Considering the high LAGR variability, we estimated that the three genets started to grow between ~2100 and ~7000 years ago, which makes them the oldest known clones of S. herbacea even considering the most conservative age estimate.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that analyzing ramets at the root collar provides an integrative measurement of their overall LAGR, which is crucial for estimating the age of genets.
Long‐term risk of venous thromboembolism among patients with gastrointestinal non‐neoplastic and neoplastic diseases: A prospective cohort study of 484 211 individuals
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Sun Yuhao , Chen Jie , Li Xue , Larsson Susanna C.
Published: September 2023

We conducted a prospective cohort study to examine the associations of 21 gastrointestinal diseases with the risk of incident venous thromboembolism (VTE). The study included 485 936 UK Biobank participants free of baseline VTE. The gastrointestinal diseases were defined by the International Classification of Disease (ICD)‐9 and 10 codes with data from the nationwide inpatient data set, the primary care data set, and the cancer registries. Incident VTE cases were defined by ICD‐9 and 10 codes with data from the nationwide inpatient data set. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the associations of baseline gastrointestinal diseases with incident VTE risk. During a median follow‐up of 12.0 years, 13 646 incident VTE cases were diagnosed. Eleven gastrointestinal diseases (nine non‐neoplastic and two neoplastic) were associated with an increased risk of incident VTE after Bonferroni corrections. The risk of VTE was >50% higher among patients with gallbladder and biliary tract cancer (hazard ratio [HR] 3.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] 95% CI 1.74–5.70), pancreatic cancer (HR 2.84, 95% CI 1.65–4.91), cirrhosis (HR 2.34, 95% CI 1.96–2.79), Crohn's disease (HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.33–1.95), or pancreatitis (HR 1.57, 95% CI 1.31–1.88) compared with individuals without each of these diseases. We observed multiplicative interactions of age, sex, and body mass index with some gastrointestinal diseases (p < .05). A more pronounced, increased risk of VTE was found among younger, female, or obese patients. The study suggests a 50% higher risk of developing VTE among patients with gallbladder and biliary tract cancer, pancreatic cancer, cirrhosis, Crohn's disease, or pancreatitis.
Green composites from vanillin‐based benzoxazine: Modified almond shell particles, curing behavior, thermal stability, mechanical properties, and stress analysis
Authors: Gorar Athar Ali Khan , Zhiyi Guo , Zhicheng Wang , Daham Abbas , Pan Zhong‐cheng , Wang Jun , Liu Wen‐Bin , Derradji Mehdi
Published: September 2023

By adhering to green chemistry principles, unique and enhanced benzoxazine composite is made from renewable vanillin and furfuryl amine. The bio‐benzoxazine poly(V‐BZF) structure was confirmed by1H NMR and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy spectroscopy. Enhanced composites were developed successfully by blending different chemical‐treated almond shell particles with poly(V‐BZF). Differential scanning calorimetry results reveal that novel benzoxazine's curing temperature was low and slightly reduced by incorporating chemically treated fillers. The lowest polymerizing temperature was recorded as 215°C for the blend of alkali‐treated particles. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrates that composites exhibited superior thermal characteristics, and chemical treatment positively impacts filler material. The limiting oxygen index value classifies poly(V‐BZF) composites as flame‐retardant and extinguishing. Approximately a 47.56% increase in tensile strength and a 28.9% increase in modulus were recorded with the incorporation of silane‐treated filler. Flexural tests demonstrated that composites with silane‐treated particles showed maximum flexural strength of 101.5 MPa and a modulus of 4112.6 MPa. The impact strength of composites increased to 73.3%, expanding benzoxazine's manufacturing applications. In addition, the specimen was designed to have composite properties and stress analysis was performed in two Multiphysics software packages. In all, this work confirms that adopting environmentally‐friendly methodologies and surface modification of filler can yield superior composites.
Fabrication of PEG‐anthracene/alginate double‐network hydrogels and their application in photolithography
Authors: Ma Zhang‐Peng , Song Xue , Yang Bing‐Zi , Liu Si‐Tong , Zheng Ru‐Yu , Xu Xing‐Zhou , Liu Chun‐Hua , Zhu Yuan‐Yuan
Published: September 2023

The development of double‐network hydrogels provides a feasible strategy to improve the mechanical properties of pure organic hydrogels. We report a new type of dynamic double‐network hydrogels based on alginate and four‐armed PEG bearing anthracene at the terminal group. The ductile network is constructed through the photopolymerization of four‐armed PEG‐anthracene using the dimerization of terminal anthracene as the cross‐linking point, and alginate as the brittle network. The doping of alginate improves the precursor viscosity of solution and slows its fluidity. In particular, the inclusive metal cations endow the hydrogels with good conductivity. As the demonstration toward photolithography, the letter patterns and a parallel circuit are fabricated through the mask exposure method. By employing selective photo‐crosslinking, their shapes and patterns can be precisely controlled. Owing to the photo‐responsive features of the PEG‐anthracene network, the hydrogels also behave dynamically mechanical and shape‐memory properties via switching the irradiation wavelength. In addition, the water retention capacity can be improved by adding glycerol. This work demonstrates that anthracene is an effective photopolymerization unit in constructing dynamic double‐network hydrogels that show potential applications in smart soft materials.
Optimizing natural rubber blends for examination gloves: Vacuum radiation for mechanical strength and solvent barrier
Authors: Lazim Nurul Hakimah , Shamsudin Siti Aisyah , Hidzir Norsyahidah Mohd , Keong Chai Chee , Ichinose Izumi
Published: September 2023

Natural rubber (NR) is emblematic of sustainability compared to synthetic rubber. However, the tradition of adding sulfur as a vulcanization ingredient results in the release of toxic substances and the potential for health issues. In this study, a feasible strategy was proposed to replace sulfur and discover a safe bulk modification process for NR films. The results have shown that the NR particle size was disintegrated to below 10 nm by gamma irradiation. High tension strength up to 24.45 MPa was observed in the vulcanized NR blend film, which could be elongated up to 800% strain after exposure to an optimum dose of 14 kGy. In comparison to commercial NR latex and nitrile gloves, the vulcanized NR/ SIS films exhibited better chemical resistance ability against hexane, methanol, toluene, and acetone, as revealed by the permeation test. The appearance of amorphous regions and highly oriented NR crystallites was observed through transmission electron microscopy. Findings from this study propose the vacuum radiation strategy that can replace conventional vulcanization methods, resulting in NR films with high mechanical and barrier performance. Furthermore, the emission of toxic substances is reduced by this green process, making it practically useful for potential chemical‐resistant examination glove applications.
Vanadium‐catalyzed Hydration of 2‐Cyanopyrazine to Pyrazinamide with Unique Substrate Specificity
Authors: Guo Zhongxu , Du Zhongtian , Zhao Yanbin , Shen Xiaoyu , Liang Changhai
Published: September 2023

Pyrazinamide is an important medicine used for the treatment of tuberculosis(TB). The preparation of pyrazinamide via catalytic hydration of 2‐cyanopyrazine is of great economic interest with high atomic economy. Heterogeneous non‐precious transition metal‐catalyzed hydration of nitriles under neutral reaction conditions would be rather attractive. Herein vanadium‐nitrogen‐carbon materials were fabricated and employed for selective hydration of nitriles using water as both the solvent and reactant. 2‐Cyanopyrazine could be smoothly converted into to pyrazinamide with unique substrate specificity. Additives with different N and O atoms could significantly affect hydration of 2‐cyanopyrazine due to competitive adsorption/coordination in the reaction system. This work provides a new approach for non‐precious metal catalyzed hydration of nitriles.
Lateralization of delta band power in magnetoencephalography (MEG) in patients with unilateral focal epilepsy and its relation to verbal fluency
Authors: Süß Annika Melissa , Hug Marion , Conradi Nadine , Kienitz Ricardo , Rosenow Felix , Rampp Stefan , Merkel Nina
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Delta power is a clinically established biomarker for abnormal brain processes. However, in patients with unilateral focal epilepsy (FE) it is still not well understood, how it relates to the epileptogenic zone and to neurocognitive functioning. The aim of the present study was thus to assess how delta power relates to the affected hemisphere, whether lateralization strength differs between the patients, and how changes in delta power correlate with cognitive functioning.

Method

We retrospectively studied patients with left (LFE) and right FE (RFE) who had undergone a resting‐state magnetoencephalography measurement. We computed global and hemispheric delta power and lateralization indices and examined whether delta power correlates with semantic and letter verbal fluency (former being a marker for language and verbal memory, latter for executive functions) in 26 FE patients (15 LFE, 11 RFE) and 10 healthy controls.

Results

Delta power was increased in FE patients compared to healthy controls. However, the increase across hemispheres was related to the site of the epileptic focus: On group level, LFE patients showed higher delta power in both hemispheres, whereas RFE patients primarily exhibited higher delta power in the ipsilateral right hemisphere. Both groups showed co‐fluctuations of delta power between the hemispheres. Besides, delta power correlated negatively only with letter verbal fluency.

Conclusion

The findings confirm and provide further evidence that delta power is a marker of pathological activity and abnormal brain processes in FE. Delta power dynamics differ between patient groups, indicating that delta power could offer additional diagnostic value. The negative association of delta power and letter verbal fluency suggests that executive dysfunctions are related to low frequency abnormalities.
Attitudes and practices toward COVID‐19 precautionary measures: A comparative study of health professionals and public
Authors: Hashim Muhammad Jawad , Jamil Sarah , Masood Murriam , Govender Romona Devi , Shamsi Ali Rashed Al , Al Zaabi Anwar , AB Khan Moien , Aziz Saleem Aqeel , Jamil Gohar
Published: September 2023

Background

Containment of the COVID‐19 pandemic has been impaired by the denial and defiance of preventive recommendations.

Aims

We aimed to study the attitudes toward COVID‐19 social measures among laypersons and healthcare professionals.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study in the United Arab Emirates using a self‐administered online questionnaire. Both healthcare workers and laypersons were actively recruited. In addition to sociodemographic variables, the questionnaire included questions on anxiety, knowledge, and defiance related to COVID‐19.

Results

A total of 615 individuals with a mean age of 32 years (SD, 12) participated. Females comprised 69% and healthcare workers constituted 60% of the study sample. Among laypersons, over 42% reported having social gatherings at home, and 44% admitted to visiting crowded places. More than half of the respondents felt increased anxiety. Previous COVID‐19 infection did not affect attitudes or anxiety levels. Knowledge about COVID‐19 was higher among those who were more educated (r = .21). Healthcare workers had lower anxiety than laypersons (p = .002). COVID‐19 anxiety was higher among older persons and did not decrease with more knowledge. COVID‐19 defiance was higher among younger male respondents from larger households and did not correlate with knowledge. Multivariate analysis showed more defiant attitudes at younger ages.

Conclusions

Anxiety‐related to the COVID‐19 pandemic is more common in older individuals, whereas younger persons were more likely to deny and defy prevention recommendations despite having knowledge of viral transmission. Voluntary compliance by young individuals requires an engaging communication strategy to generate more compassionate attitudes.
Child torture: A Washington state case series
Authors: Schlatter Adrienne , Wiester Rebecca T. , Thompson Alysha D. , Gilbert Joyce , Forshag Teresa , Feldman Kenneth W.
Published: September 2023

Child torture is a worldwide problem, but there is very little research on torture as a form of child abuse. In 2014 Knox et al. reported the first case series on child torture and developed criteria to diagnose child abuse torture. Our objective was to describe additional child abuse torture victims and to determine whether they shared similar patterns, including types of abuse, duration and possible opportunities for early identification. This multi‐site case series reviewed 47 children identified as torture victims at three Washington State child abuse programs spanning 15 years. Data was collected through retrospective chart review. Simple descriptive statistics were utilised. Our study found that abuse occurred over months to years. All children experienced psychological maltreatment, 89 per cent had findings of physical abuse. Malnutrition and medical, emotional and educational neglect were common. Majority of torture victims had previously been involved with CPS or had seen a medical provider prior to diagnosis, at which time they had findings of torture, but received no protective intervention. It's important to develop criteria for recognition and early intervention since tortured children experienced sustained, systematic and escalating abuse.
The effect of shopping channel (online vs. offline) on message framing of naturalness
Authors: Duong Chien , Sung Billy , Lee Sean , Easton Julia
Published: September 2023

Naturalness is a significant driver of food‐related choices. However, there is scarce knowledge of how textual cues could be utilised to enhance the effectiveness of naturalness claims. Drawn from construal level theory, we attempted to examine how different methods of framing naturalness affect consumers in online vs. offline shopping contexts. Study 1 employed a 2 (abstract vs. concrete) × 2 (online vs. offline) experiment with 127 respondents and demonstrated that concrete framing heightens positive attitudes via increased perceived concreteness of the message, especially in offline shopping situations. Study 2 employed a 4 (abstract vs. control vs. concrete without mentioning natural vs. concrete mentioning natural) × 2 (online vs. offline) experiment with 173 respondents and replicated findings from Study 1. Furthermore, Study 2 ruled out alternative explanations of message authenticity, transparency and credibility and indicated that the effect of message framings is truly driven by the congruency between consumers' construal level and message framings. Interestingly, no significant effect of abstractly framed naturalness claims was observed in online shopping situations, contradicting existing studies. This suggests that other psychological mechanisms may interplay and hinder the effectiveness of abstract framing in our study. Taken together, the current research demonstrate that consumers' mental representation varies across shopping platforms and how it affects their evaluation of different methods of message framing.