bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weiterbildungsbeteiligung von Kleinst- und Kleinunternehmen durch digitale Lernszenarien fördern
Authors: Dyrna Jonathan , Pippig Michelle , Herchet Marilisa , Zawidzki Julia , Zimmermann Theresia
Published: April 2023

Das Forschungs- und Entwicklungsvorhaben “weiter.digital” befasste sich mit der Fragestellung, wie digital gestützte Lernangebote gestaltet werden sollten, um die Weiterbildungsbeteiligung in kleinsten, kleinen und mittleren Unternehmen (KKU/KMU) in Sachsen zu fördern. Die zu Beginn des Design-Based-Research-Ansatzes im Jahr 2019 durchgeführte Ausgangsanalyse zeigte, dass die befragten sächsischen KKU/KMU (N = 33) zu diesem Zeitpunkt über grundlegende digitale Infrastrukturen verfügten, während ihre Ausstattung mit fortgeschrittenen Technologien, die auch bildungsbezogen eingesetzt werden können (wie z. B. interaktiven Whiteboards oder Videokonferenzsoftware), eher ausbaufähig war. Obgleich die KKU/KMU ihnen überwiegend positiv gegenüberstehen, galt selbiges auch für den bisherigen Einsatz von Blended-Learning- und Online-Lernformaten. Um diese Problematik zu adressieren, wurden in enger Zusammenarbeit zwischen der Technischen Universität Dresden und den projektbeteiligten Bildungsanbietenden vier Web-Based-Trainings (bestehend aus insgesamt 12 Micro-Trainings) und drei Blended-Learning-Konzepten zu verschiedenen relevanten Weiterbildungsthemen entwickelt und erprobt. Die mehrstufige Evaluation zeigte, dass die Lernangebote von den Teilnehmenden aus sächsischen KKU/KMU (N = 169) als benutzerfreundlich, angenehm und motivierend wahrgenommen wurden und neben fachlichen Fähigkeiten und Fertigkeiten (im Vorher-Nachher-Vergleich) insbesondere auch die Erweiterung von lernmethodischen Kompetenzen (wie z. B. die individuelle Medienkunde- und -kritik; T = 2,05; p = ,045; d = 0,52) förderten. Die zentralen Herausforderungen des insgesamt erfolgreichen Vorhabens lagen in der eingeschränkten Erreichbarkeit der KKU/KMU und ihren heterogenen Anforderungen sowie dem nach wie vor bestehenden Defizit an gleichermaßen funktionalen wie benutzerfreundlichen E-Learning-Autorenwerkzeugen.
THE TEACHER'S ROLE IN INTERNALIZING LOCAL WISDOM VALUES AT SMA PGRI KUPANG
Authors: Momay Imelda Sari Inda , Tukang Budiyanto
Published: April 2023

This study aims to determine the role of teachers in SMA PGRI Kupang and to find out how teachers internalize local wisdom values in SMA PGRI Kupang. The type of research used for this research is qualitative to understand in depth the role of the teacher in internalizing local wisdom values at SMA PGRI Kupang. Data collection techniques used are observation, interviews and documentation. The results of this study indicate that the teacher's role at SMA PGRI Kupang is that the teacher internalizes the value of local wisdom so that students continue to preserve local wisdom that has existed for a long time from religious values that require students to pray before carrying out learning activities with the aim of students remaining for teachings of their respective religions. Second, the value of Gotong Royong with the aim of creating cohesiveness, fostering an attitude of helping each other and strengthening a sense of brotherhood. Third, cultural and artistic values that require students to comply with the rules in SMA PGRI Kupang and continue to practice positive habits such as 3S culture (smile, greet, greet), use of school uniforms according to the rules and recommendations for maintaining 5K (cleanliness, security, order, beauty and kinship).
Controlling Bankruptcy: An Early Warning Signal Model
Authors: Mirza Bushra Karim , Rasheed Farooq
Published: April 2023

The continued development to best fit the model in prediction of bankruptcy has been of substantial interest over the decades. In accounting models of bankruptcy predictions usually single model appears to be a generalized one for each industry, even when industries are structurally different in terms of their financial, operational, and investing needs. This study investigates the causes of financial failure of textile companies (Around 100 companies) delisted from PSX during 2002-2017. A firm is financially distressed due to improper working capital management which led the firm to go bankrupt in the long run. We used 2 sets of data; estimation sample 2002-2012 & cross validation sample 2014-2017 and examined 20 ratios from Liquidity, profitability, Leverage and efficiency, for a five-year period preceding liquidation .Multiple Discriminant Analysis (MDA) approach followed by Logit regression were used. Four ratios; working capital to total assets,  acid test, sales to total assets, and sales growth as proxy of working capital, were identified as significant predictors. The resultant model has early forewarning signals for potential bankruptcy that can occur which could not be generalized one for each industry.
Post-Covid-19 Volatility of Exchange Rate Returns: A Case Study of Pakistan
Authors: Hayat Anum , Mazhar Marium , Aijaz Urooj , Ghauri Saghir Pervaiz , Lodhi Kishwer Sultana
Published: April 2023

The purpose of the study is to forecast the volatility for returns of the exchange rate of Pakistan concerning US dollars along with the impact of covid-19 so that we can find out the feasibility of holding this asset along with the risk and returns associated with it. For this purpose daily data has been taken from the State bank of Pakistan on a period from February 01, 2001, to June 30, 2021, where covid-19 is used as a dummy variable. Furthermore, in methodology, we applied GARCH models after finding the presence of the ARCH effect which is at ARCH (6) in the series. It is found in all GARCH models that the past volatility of the exchange rate returns has a statistically significant influence on the current volatility of the exchange rate means there is time-varying and time-correlated volatility associated with exchange rate returns. According to GARCH-M, GARCH-M (variance) (1,1) and GARCH-M (SD) (1,1) results it is concluded that average returns of exchange rate are small but significant and there is no risk factor associated with exchange rate returns but the past square residual terms have a significant impact on risk volatility. Furthermore, Both T-GARCH and E- GARCH depicts that the impact of covid-19, which is bad news, although has a significant impact but its magnitude has a lesser influence on exchange rate volatility than the good news.
Empirical Investigation of Real Exchange Rate between Pak Rupee and US Dollar Employing Markov Switching-AR Model
Authors: Shaikh Ehsan Ahmed , Wizarat Shahida
Published: April 2023

This study empirically investigates real exchange rate between Pak Rupee and US Dollaremploying a two state Markov Switching-AR Model. Bai-Perron test for multiple structural breaks foundthree structural breaks in the series. Estimation results of Markov Switching-AR model reveal that if thereal exchange rate is in state one, its probability of staying in same state in the next period is greaterthan 99 percent whereas switching to second state is 0.7 percent. Whereas, if real exchange rate is instate two, its probability of staying to the same state is 99 percent and its probability of switching to stateone in the next period is less than 0.6 percent.
Nhận diện cổ mẫu trong thơ Xuân Quỳnh
Authors: Phạm Khánh Duy
Published: April 2023

Xuân Quỳnh là một trong những nhà thơ tiêu biểu trên thi đàn Việt Nam hiện đại. Thơ Xuân Quỳnh từ khi ra đời cho đến nay đã chiếm trọn trái tim của nhiều người, đặc biệt là thế hệ trẻ. Bên cạnh những nội dung phong phú, thơ Xuân Quỳnh còn mở ra thế giới nghệ thuật độc đáo, ẩn giấu nhiều ký hiệu, biểu tượng, đặc biệt là hệ thống cổ mẫu. Nhận thấy sự xuất hiện của cổ mẫu trong thơ Xuân Quỳnh, trong bài báo này, chúng tôi đã nhận diện, phân tích giá trị biểu đạt, giá trị thẩm mỹ của một số cổ mẫu trong thơ Xuân Quỳnh. Trong số các cổ mẫu hiện hữu, chúng tôi lựa chọn và giải mã ba cổ mẫu tiêu biểu là: nước, đất và người mẹ/người phụ nữ. Thông qua đây, chúng tôi có cơ sở vững chắc để khẳng định giá trị to lớn của thơ Xuân Quỳnh.
Factores endógenos y exógenos para el modelado y predicción del rendimiento académico de estudiantes universitarios
Authors: Incio Flores Fernando Alain , Capuñay Sanchez Dulce Lucero
Published: April 2023

The objective of this research is to design and implement an artificial neural network (RNA) model that allows predicting the academic performance of students at the Fabiola Salazar Leguía de Bagua National Intercultural University (UNIFSLB) in the Mathematics subject. This research presents a quantitative, non-experimental, projective and predictive approach; A dichotomous response questionnaire was developed to collect information on the factors that influence Academic Performance (AR). For the validation of the questionnaire, the expert judgment criteria was used, and for reliability the Kuder-Richarson test (reliability coefficient of 0.82). The study population was made up of 397 UNIFSLB students. The RNA model was designed in the MATLAB software, the model adjustment was performed taking into account the mean square error (0.27) and the weighted correlation coefficient during training, validation and testing (0.92%). The RNA model with the best prediction results is made up of three hidden layers (35-42-31 neurons in each hidden layer) and an output layer (1 neuron). It was concluded that it is possible to implement an RNA model with endogenous and exogenous factors to predict the AR of students

El objetivo de esta investigación es diseñar e implementar un modelo de red neuronal artificial (RNA) que permita predecir el rendimiento académico de los estudiantes de la Universidad Nacional Intercultural Fabiola Salazar Leguía de Bagua (UNIFSLB) en la asignatura Matemática. Esta investigación presenta un enfoque cuantitativo, no experimental, de tipo proyectiva y predictiva; se elaboró un cuestionario de respuestas dicotómicas para recolectar información de los factores que influyen en el Rendimiento académico (RA). Para la validación del cuestionario se utilizó el criterio de juicio de expertos, y para la confiabilidad la prueba Kuder-Richarson (coeficiente de confiabilidad de 0.82). La población de estudio quedó constituida por 397 estudiantes de la UNIFSLB. El modelo de RNA se diseñó en el software MATLAB, el ajuste del modelo se realizó teniendo en cuenta el error cuadrático medio (0.27) y el coeficiente de correlación ponderado durante el entrenamiento, validación y prueba (0.92%). El modelo de  RNA con los mejores resultados en la predicción está constituido por tres capas ocultas (35-42-31 neuronas en cada capa oculta) y una capa de salida (1 neurona). Se concluyó que es posible implementar un modelo de RNA con factores endógenos y exógenos para predecir el RA de los estudiantes
The Interactive Research Methods Lab: A Hubfor the Promotion of Educational Changebased on Methodological Equity
Authors: Jorrín Abellán Iván
Published: April 2023

In this article we present the Interactive Research Methods Lab (IRML) as a hub that facilitates an empowering and emancipatory model leading to the promotion of educational change based on an emerging methodological equity approach.  We describe the origins, evolution and key innitiatives of this innovative physical and virtual space in the Bagwell College of Education (Kennesaw State University) that challenges the traditional approaches to teaching and learning research methods, by promoting the development of a critical inquiry culture among pre-service and in-service teachers.

En este artículo presentamos el Interactive Research Methods Lab como lugar de encuentro que facilita un modelo de empoderamiento y emancipación que conduce a la promoción del cambio educativo basado en un enfoque emergente de equidad metodológica. Describimos los orígenes, la evolución y las iniciativas clave de este innovador espacio físico y virtual en el Bagwell College of Education (Kennesaw State University) que desafía los enfoques tradicionales de enseñanza-aprendizaje de métodos de investigación, promoviendo el desarrollo de una cultura de investigación crítica entre los maestros/as tanto en activo como en formación.
La formación del profesorado para la educación lingüística y culturalmente inclusiva: relato de una experiencia de Aprendizaje-servicio en un Trabajo de Fin de Grado
Authors: Llompart-Esbert Julia , Masats Dolors
Published: April 2023

Current educational policies, with the aim of responding to the need to manage linguistically and culturally diverse classrooms, promote an inclusive education model that requires teachers who are linguistically sensitive in their beliefs, attitudes, and actions in ordinary classrooms. For this reason, initial teacher training programmes must offer pre-service teachers the possibility of acquiring the background knowledge, the skills and the attitudes that will guarantee they can become linguistically inclusive teachers. Here we present a case study that documents the participation of a student-teacher in a Service Learning experience as part of her Final Degree Project. The need identified, by an organization devoted to teaching Catalan and Spanish to adults of immigrant origin, consisted of the development of teaching materials. The data collected comes from different sources (the written text that makes the Final Degree Project, recordings of the planning sessions, etc.) and the analysis focusses on the student teacher’s reflection processes about multilingual education. This analysis will allow us to draw conclusions regarding how linguistically sensitive teacher education should be approached.

Las políticas educativas actuales, con el objetivo de dar respuesta a la necesidad de gestionar aulas lingüística y culturalmente diversas, promueven un modelo de educación inclusiva que requiere docentes que sean lingüísticamente sensibles en sus creencias, actitudes y acciones en las aulas ordinarias. Por ello, es preciso que la formación inicial de profesorado ofrezca la posibilidad de adquirir sobre el terreno los conocimientos, las habilidades y las actitudes que les garanticen convertirse en docentes lingüísticamente inclusivas. Aquí presentamos un estudio de caso sobre la participación de una alumna en una experiencia de Aprendizaje-servicio del cual se derivará la elaboración de su Trabajo de Fin de Grado (TFG). La demanda, efectuada por una organización dedicada a la alfabetización de personas adultas de origen migrante, consistía en la elaboración de materiales didácticos. Los datos recogidos, que provienen de fuentes de distinta índole (el texto escrito del TFG, grabaciones de las sesiones de planificación de la intervención, etc.), permiten observar los procesos de reflexión de la alumna acerca de la educación plurilingüe. Ello nos ayudará a elaborar conclusiones relativas a cómo debería abordarse la formación de docentes lingüísticamente inclusivas.
A simple mechanism for integration of quorum sensing and cAMP signalling in Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Walker Lucas M , Haycocks James RJ , Van Kessel Julia C , Dalia Triana N , Dalia Ankur B , Grainger David C
Published: April 2023

Many bacteria use quorum sensing to control changes in lifestyle. The process is regulated by microbially derived ‘autoinducer’ signalling molecules, that accumulate in the local environment. Individual cells sense autoinducer abundance, to infer population density, and alter their behaviour accordingly. In Vibrio cholerae, quorum-sensing signals are transduced by phosphorelay to the transcription factor LuxO. Unphosphorylated LuxO permits expression of HapR, which alters global gene expression patterns. In this work, we have mapped the genome-wide distribution of LuxO and HapR in V. cholerae. Whilst LuxO has a small regulon, HapR targets 32 loci. Many HapR targets coincide with sites for the cAMP receptor protein (CRP) that regulates the transcriptional response to carbon starvation. This overlap, also evident in other Vibrio species, results from similarities in the DNA sequence bound by each factor. At shared sites, HapR and CRP simultaneously contact the double helix and binding is stabilised by direct interaction of the two factors. Importantly, this involves a CRP surface that usually contacts RNA polymerase to stimulate transcription. As a result, HapR can block transcription activation by CRP. Thus, by interacting at shared sites, HapR and CRP integrate information from quorum sensing and cAMP signalling to control gene expression. This likely allows V. cholerae to regulate subsets of genes during the transition between aquatic environments and the human host.
Rapid, DNA-induced interface swapping by DNA gyrase
Authors: Germe Thomas RM , Bush Natassja G , Baskerville Victoria M , Saman Dominik , Benesch Justin LP , Maxwell Anthony
Published: April 2023

DNA gyrase, a ubiquitous bacterial enzyme, is a type IIA topoisomerase formed by heterotetramerisation of 2 GyrA subunits and 2 GyrB subunits, to form the active complex. DNA gyrase can loop DNA around the C-terminal domains (CTDs) of GyrA and pass one DNA duplex through a transient double-strand break (DSB) established in another duplex. This results in the conversion from a positive (+1) to a negative (–1) supercoil, thereby introducing negative supercoiling into the bacterial genome by steps of 2, an activity essential for DNA replication and transcription. The strong protein interface in the GyrA dimer must be broken to allow passage of the transported DNA segment and it is generally assumed that the interface is usually stable and only opens when DNA is transported, to prevent the introduction of deleterious DSBs in the genome. In this paper, we show that DNA gyrase can exchange its DNA-cleaving interfaces between two active heterotetramers. This so-called interface ‘swapping’ (IS) can occur within a few minutes in solution. We also show that bending of DNA by gyrase is essential for cleavage but not for DNA binding per se and favors IS. Interface swapping is also favored by DNA wrapping and an excess of GyrB. We suggest that proximity, promoted by GyrB oligomerization and binding and wrapping along a length of DNA, between two heterotetramers favors rapid interface swapping. This swapping does not require ATP, occurs in the presence of fluoroquinolones, and raises the possibility of non-homologous recombination solely through gyrase activity. The ability of gyrase to undergo interface swapping explains how gyrase heterodimers, containing a single active-site tyrosine, can carry out double-strand passage reactions and therefore suggests an alternative explanation to the recently proposed ‘swivelling’ mechanism for DNA gyrase (Gubaev et al., 2016).
Importance of glutamine in synaptic vesicles revealed by functional studies of SLC6A17 and its mutations pathogenic for intellectual disability
Authors: Jia Xiaobo , Zhu Jiemin , Bian Xiling , Liu Sulin , Yu Sihan , Liang Wenjun , Jiang Lifen , Mao Renbo , Zhang Wenxia , Rao Yi
Published: April 2023

Human mutations in the gene encoding the solute carrier (SLC) 6A17 caused intellectual disability (ID). The physiological role of SLC6A17 and pathogenesis of SLC6A17-based-ID were both unclear. Here, we report learning deficits in Slc6a17 knockout and point mutant mice. Biochemistry, proteomic, and electron microscopy (EM) support SLC6A17 protein localization in synaptic vesicles (SVs). Chemical analysis of SVs by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS) revealed glutamine (Gln) in SVs containing SLC6A17. Virally mediated overexpression of SLC6A17 increased Gln in SVs. Either genetic or virally mediated targeting of Slc6a17 reduced Gln in SVs. One ID mutation caused SLC6A17 mislocalization while the other caused defective Gln transport. Multidisciplinary approaches with seven types of genetically modified mice have shown Gln as an endogenous substrate of SLC6A17, uncovered Gln as a new molecule in SVs, established the necessary and sufficient roles of SLC6A17 in Gln transport into SVs, and suggested SV Gln decrease as the key pathogenetic mechanism in human ID.
Open-source software library for real-time inertial measurement unit data-based inverse kinematics using OpenSim
Authors: Lavikainen Jere , Vartiainen Paavo , Stenroth Lauri , Karjalainen Pasi A.
Published: April 2023

Background

Inertial measurements (IMUs) facilitate the measurement of human motion outside the motion laboratory. A commonly used open-source software for musculoskeletal simulation and analysis of human motion, OpenSim, includes a tool to enable kinematics analysis of IMU data. However, it only enables offline analysis, i.e., analysis after the data has been collected. Extending OpenSim’s functionality to allow real-time kinematics analysis would allow real-time feedback for the subject during the measurement session and has uses in e.g., rehabilitation, robotics, and ergonomics.

Methods

We developed an open-source software library for real-time inverse kinematics (IK) analysis of IMU data using OpenSim. The software library reads data from IMUs and uses multithreading for concurrent calculation of IK. Its operation delays and throughputs were measured with a varying number of IMUs and parallel computing IK threads using two different musculoskeletal models, one a lower-body and torso model and the other a full-body model. We published the code under an open-source license on GitHub.

Results

A standard desktop computer calculated full-body inverse kinematics from treadmill walking at 1.5 m/s with data from 12 IMUs in real-time with a mean delay below 55 ms and reached a throughput of more than 90 samples per second. A laptop computer had similar delays and reached a throughput above 60 samples per second with treadmill walking. Minimal walking kinematics, motion of lower extremities and torso, were calculated from treadmill walking data in real-time with a throughput of 130 samples per second on the laptop and 180 samples per second on the desktop computer, with approximately half the delay of full-body kinematics.

Conclusions

The software library enabled real-time inverse kinematical analysis with different numbers of IMUs and customizable musculoskeletal models. The performance results show that subject-specific full-body motion analysis is feasible in real-time, while a laptop computer and IMUs allowed the use of the method outside the motion laboratory.
A norma contabilística das entidades do sector não lucrativo: tratamento dos bens do património histórico, artístico e cultural
Authors: Gariso Clara Margarida Simões
Published: April 2023

Este artigo estuda o tratamento contabilístico das Entidades do Setor Não Lucrativo, encontrando-se as regras definidas na Norma Contabilística e de Relato Financeiro para as Entidades do Sector Não Lucrativo (NCRF-ESNL). Assim, numa primeira parte deste trabalho faremos um enquadramento das entidades do setor não lucrativo, enquadrando este setor, com os setores privado e público. Posteriormente foi feita uma pequena resenha sobre a evolução da contabilidade em Portugal. Será analisado o preceituado pela NCRF-ESNL, apresentando uma questão, alvo de opiniões diversas e polémicas, defendidas por vários autores: o reconhecimento dos bens do património, histórico, artístico e cultural (BPHAC). De facto, iremos demonstrar que nem sempre, o reconhecimento destes itens, apresenta os requisitos necessários para que os mesmos possam ser considerados como ativos. A problemática deste conceito, é muito simples. Será que os BPHAC, cumprem, em geral o conceito de ativo, devendo ser reconhecidos como tal? Trata-se de um estudo de caso, privilegiando a análise documental, cedida pela entidade alvo deste estudo, uma Associação. Foi feita uma análise comparativa entre as demonstrações financeiras, onde seriam reconhecidos os BPHAC como ativos fixos, e demonstrações financeiras em que os BPHAC não estariam reconhecidos. Concluiu-se que os bens do património, histórico, artístico e cultural devem ser reconhecidos como ativos, pois melhoram a qualidade das demonstrações financeiras, e consequentemente dos seus indicadores financeiros.
Global Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Antimicrobial Resistance: An Overview
Authors: Singh Amresh Kumar , Singh Nandini , Kumar Sushil , Kumar Ankur
Published: April 2023

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a condition which occurs, when pathogens evolve and no longer respond to antibiotics, making infections more difficult to treat and leads to death. Apart from the truth that antibiotics have increased the life expectancy of human, AMR is a serious threat. AMR is a major public health threat declared by World Health Organisation (WHO) since 2014. During the different waves of the pandemic, patients with Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) infection caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) accounted for the majority of hospital admissions, frequently necessitating an antibiotic upon admission. Among hospitalised patients with COVID-19 infection, a major cause of mortality was mainly due to secondary infections, which was due to overuse of antibiotics and poor infection control procedures which may lead to rapid emergence of Multidrug Resistance (MDR). Before COVID-19 pandemic, AMR was estimated to kill around 700,000 people yearly that are predicted to increase upto 10 million by 2050. Before COVID-19 pandemic, there was lower incidence of hospital associated infections across world. AMR was surprisingly prevalent in patients with bacterial co-infections during the first 18 months of the COVID-19 pandemic. The latest update as per WHO guidance for antibiotic stewardship, which does not recommend antibiotic therapy or prophylaxis for patients with mild/moderate COVID-19 unless signs and symptoms of a bacterial infection. Now, the researchers must consider secondary bacterial infection rate, MDR isolation rate, and high mortality among COVID-19 with secondary infection. This shows the urgent need for surveillance, reinforcement of infection control practices and strict antimicrobial stewardship to combat increasing AMR.
Análise shift-share das principais culturas do Paraná segundo suas mesorregiões entre 2009 e 2018
Authors: Vieira Marieli
Published: April 2023

O presente trabalho tem o objetivo de analisar as fontes de crescimento na produção das principais culturas do estado do Paraná, sendo elas: cana-de-açúcar, feijão, mandioca, milho, soja e trigo, que representam mais de noventa e cinco por cento da área total colhida no estado para todos os anos de análise. O modelo utilizado para decompor o crescimento da produção das culturas é o shift-share, que explica o crescimento com três principais fontes de variação: efeito área, efeito rendimento e efeito localização geográfica. Este estudo é feito para o período de 2009 a 2018 para as dez mesorregiões do estado. Os resultados indicam que o aumento da produção dentro deste período ocorreu, gerando efeito total positivo para mandioca, milho, soja e trigo. Enquanto nas alterações de área destinada às culturas, houve aumento apenas para cana-de-açúcar, mandioca e soja. Percebe-se ainda que as mesorregiões que se destacam representativamente no resultado do estado, sendo esse positivo ou negativo, o fazem em grande parte devido ao efeito área e localização geográfica, indicando a interferência de características especificamente regionais.
Patient- and Family-Centered Hospital Care—The Need for Structural Humility
Authors: Parente Victoria M. , Nagy Gabriela , Pollak Kathryn I.
Published: April 2023

This Viewpoint discusses communication between clinicians and caregivers of racial and ethnic minoritized groups.
DEA outlines new training requirements for prescribers of all controlled substances
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: April 2023

Last week, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) provided clear information to prescribers of controlled substances on the new training requirements in order for them to get their license.
ONDCP‐funded model law calls for less punitive approach to pregnant users
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: April 2023

Model state legislation informed by a working group of experts with the support of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) emphasizes that maintaining a treatment‐focused approach to substance‐using pregnant women and meeting federal child welfare reporting requirements are not mutually exclusive goals. The model act lends the weight of the leading federal drug policy agency to an effort to counteract increasingly punitive actions in some states that have targeted pregnant women with substance use disorders (SUDs).
NIDA comments on Taiwan methadone‐driving study
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: April 2023

A recent literature review from Taiwan, “Risk of motor vehicle collisions after methadone use: A systematic review and meta‐analysis” by T.Y. Tsai and colleagues, found that methadone use is associated with an almost doubled risk of motor vehicle collisions, and concluded that “clinicians should exercise caution in implementing methadone maintenance therapy for drivers.” The study, published in the current issue of Drug and Alcohol Dependence, flies in the face of what is known in this country about methadone maintenance: That it is safe for driving when taken in therapeutic doses. ADAW asked the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) to comment on the study. Here is what they said.
Multiphase Polarization in Ion‐Intercalation Nanofilms: General Theory Including Various Surface Effects and Memory Applications
Authors: Tian Huanhuan , Li Ju , Bazant Martin Z.
Published: April 2023

Ion concentration polarization (CP, current‐induced concentration gradient adjacent to a charge‐selective interface) has been well studied for single‐phase mixed conductors (e.g., liquid electrolyte), but multiphase CP has been rarely addressed in literature. In our recent publication, we proposed that CP above certain threshold currents can flip the phase distribution in multiphase ion‐intercalation nanofilms sandwiched by ion‐blocking electrodes. This phenomenon is known as multiphase polarization (MP). It is then proposed that MP can further lead to nonvolatile interfacial resistive switching (RS) for asymmetric electrodes with ion‐modulated electron transfer, which theory can reproduce the experimental results of LTO memristors. In this study, a comprehensive 2D phase‐field model is derived for coupled ion‐electron transport in ion‐intercalation materials, with surface effects including electron transfer kinetics, non‐neutral wetting, energy relaxation, and surface charge. Then, the model is used to study MP. Time evolution of phase boundaries is presented, and analyze the switching time, current, energy, and cyclic voltammetry, for various boundary conditions. It is found that the switching performance can be improved significantly by manipulating surface conditions and mean concentration. Finally, the prospects of MP‐based memories and possible extensions of the current model is discussed.
Light Controlled Biohybrid Microbots
Authors: Pellicciotta Nicola , Bagal Ojus Satish , Sosa Viridiana Carmona , Frangipane Giacomo , Vizsnyiczai Gaszton , Leonardo Roberto Di
Published: April 2023

Biohybrid microbots integrate biological actuators and sensors into synthetic chassis with the aim of providing the building blocks of next‐generation micro‐robotics. One of the main challenges is the development of self‐assembled systems with consistent behavior and such that they can be controlled independently to perform complex tasks. Herein, it is shown that, using light‐driven bacteria as propellers, 3D printed microbots can be steered by unbalancing light intensity over different microbot parts. An optimal feedback loop is designed in which a central computer projects onto each microbot a tailor‐made light pattern, calculated from its position and orientation. In this way, multiple microbots can be independently guided through a series of spatially distributed checkpoints. By exploiting a natural light‐driven proton pump, these bio‐hybrid microbots are able to extract mechanical energy from light with such high efficiency that, in principle, hundreds of these systems can be controlled simultaneously with a total optical power of just a few milliwatts.
In Situ Device‐Level TEM Characterization Based on Ultra‐Flexible Multilayer MoS2 Micro‐Cantilever
Authors: Hou Chaojian , Wang Kun , Zhang Wenqi , Chen Donglei , Wang Xiaokai , Fan Lu , Li Chunyang , Zhao Jing , Dong Lixin
Published: April 2023

Current state‐of‐the‐art in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) characterization technology has been capable of statically or dynamically nanorobotic manipulating specimens, affording abundant atom‐level material attributes. However, an insurmountable barrier between material attributes investigations and device‐level application explorations exists due to immature in situ TEM manufacturing technology and sufficient external coupled stimulus. These limitations seriously prevent the development of in situ device‐level TEM characterization. Herein, a representative in situ opto‐electromechanical TEM characterization platform is put forward by integrating an ultra‐flexible micro‐cantilever chip with optical, mechanical, and electrical coupling fields for the first time. On this platform, static and dynamic in situ device‐level TEM characterizations are implemented by utilizing molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanoflake as channel material. E‐beam modulation behavior in MoS2 transistors is demonstrated at ultra‐high e‐beam acceleration voltage (300 kV), stemming from inelastic scattering electron doping into MoS2 nanoflakes. Moreover, in situ dynamic bending MoS2 nanodevices without/with laser irradiation reveals asymmetric piezoresistive properties based on electromechanical effects and secondary enhanced photocurrent based on opto‐electromechanical coupling effects, accompanied by real‐time monitoring atom‐level characterization. This approach provides a step toward advanced in situ device‐level TEM characterization technology with excellent perception ability and inspires in situ TEM characterization with ultra‐sensitive force feedback and light sensing.
Insight into Highly Graphitic Hollow Spheres for Superior Potassium Ion Batteries
Authors: Pan Quanrong , Liu Suqin , Yang Yuliang , Ye Guanying , Tang Xincun , Wang Jue
Published: April 2023

Graphite is an attractive anode material for low‐cost potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs), which are highly promising in addressing the urgent demand for large‐scale energy storage systems. However, the large volume variation of graphite during the potassiation/depotassiation may lead to poor long‐term stability, which is unfavorable for commercialization. Herein, highly graphitic hollow spheres (HGHS) are designed by using D‐ribose as the carbon source and Fe‐based catalysts to address these issues, and the effect of graphitization degree on potassium storage performance is explored, which is rarely reported. Fe‐based catalysts can promote graphitization of carbon layer and function as a hard template for manufacturing hollow and spherical architecture. HGHS possess a high porosity, which provides good contact when the liquid electrolyte infiltrates throughout the material. HGHS synthesized with a suitable amount of Fe‐based catalysts display highly graphitic hollow carbon spheres and show a superior potassium storage performance (264 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1). The hollow carbon sphere structure and highly graphitic carbon layer endows HGHS with outstanding stability, retaining 87% of the capacity after 500 cycles at 200 mA g−1. This study provides an effective strategy in designing highly graphitic hollow nanostructures for addressing the instability issues of graphite anode in PIBs.
Out‐Of‐Plane Electrokinetics via Pumping Potential Achieved by 100 nm‐Thin Polyethylene Nanomembranes
Authors: Sun Weilong , Wang Zirui , Yang Kailin , Chen Jingyu , Wu Kai , Li Faming , Liu Mingzhen , Chen Zhongxin , Zhang Qin , Li Runlai , Fu Qiang
Published: April 2023

Droplet‐induced electricity generation, as one of the most emerging environmental energy harvesting technologies, is extensively investigated for nearly a decade. Its interaction between ions (in droplets), electrons (in conductors, e.g., graphene), and charges (on the substrate surface) is the key to electricity generation. However, the indirect interaction between ions and charges due to the shielding effect from conductors, inevitably suppresses device performance and limits conductor selection. Herein, the above issues are addressed by proposing an out‐of‐plane electrokinetic effect based on a 100 nm‐thick negatively charged polyethylene nanomembrane, providing direct interactions between ions and charges, with the shielding effect of conductors eliminated. This new form of electrokinetics can induce a persistent potential for 6 h and a specific power of 177.2 nW µL−1 (highest droplet‐induced electrokinetics). With new device topologies and extensive conductor materials unlocked, this work provides a new concept and expanded scope for electrokinetic applications.
Stress exposure in specific growth periods associates with children's weight, height, and body mass index
Authors: Rodrigues Daniela , Machado‐Rodrigues Aristides M. , Nogueira Helena , Gama Augusta , Silva Maria‐Raquel G. , Bogin Barry , Padez Cristina
Published: April 2023

Objectives

We investigate associations between children exposure to stressful events, considering: (1) the period in which the event took place, (2) the type of event, and (3) the cumulative effect of the events on children's weight, height and body mass index (BMI).

Methods

A total of 8429 Portuguese children (3349 exposed to at least one stressful event during their lifetime; 50.2% males; mean age = 7.21 ± 1.85 years) were included in the analysis. The occurrence of stressful (i.e., adverse) events was reported in a parental questionnaire; children's weight and height were objectively measured.

Results

When the stress event took place in the first 2 years of life, compared with during pregnancy or after the 2 years, children were shorter; but the association was weak and only significant for boys. After adjustment for child's birthweight, gestational age, breastfeeding duration, number of siblings, and father's education, the experience of 3+ stressful events (vs. 1 or 2) was associated with higher weight and height in boys. No interaction effect was found between stress and BMI.

Discussion

We found some evidence of associations between exposure to stressful events and physical growth of boys. We highlight the complex relationship between exposure to stressful experiences and children's physical growth, particularly the different effects of specific characteristics of the stress event and the sex differences.
DNA‐Based Artificial Receptors as Transmembrane Signal Transduction Systems for Protocellular Communication
Authors: Chen Hui , Xu Wanyu , Shi Hui , Qiao Yan , He Xiaoxiao , Zheng Jing , Zhou Shaohong , Yang Xiaohai , Wang Kemin , Liu Jianbo
Published: April 2023

The ability to reproduce signal transduction and cellular communication in artificial cell systems is significant in synthetic protobiology. Here, we describe an artificial transmembrane signal transduction through low pH‐mediated formation of the i‐motif and dimerization of DNA‐based artificial membrane receptors, which is coupled to the occurrence of fluorescence resonance energy transfer and the activation of G‐quadruplex/hemin‐mediated fluorescence amplification inside giant unilamellar vesicles. Moreover, an intercellular signal communication model is established when the extravesicular H+ input is replaced by coacervate microdroplets, which activate the dimerization of the artificial receptors, and subsequent fluorescence production or polymerization in giant unilamellar vesicles. This study represents a crucial step towards designing artificial signalling systems with environmental response, and provides an opportunity to establish signalling networks in protocell colonies.
Overcoming the Trade‐Off between C2H2 Sorption and Separation Performance by Regulating Metal‐Alkyne Chemical Interaction in Metal‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Tan Yan‐Xi , Lin Jing , Li Qiao‐Hong , Li Liqiong , Anil Borse Rahul , Lu Weigang , Wang Yaobing , Yuan Daqiang
Published: April 2023

Designing porous materials for C2H2 purification and safe storage is essential research for industrial utilization. We emphatically regulate the metal‐alkyne interaction of PdII and PtII on C2H2 sorption and C2H2/CO2 separation in two isostructural NbO metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), Pd/Cu‐PDA and Pt/Cu‐PDA. The experimental investigations and systematic theoretical calculations reveal that PdII in Pd/Cu‐PDA undergoes spontaneous chemical reaction with C2H2, leading to irreversible structural collapse and loss of C2H2/CO2 sorption and separation. Contrarily, PtII in Pt/Cu‐PDA shows strong di‐σ bond interaction with C2H2 to form specific π‐complexation, contributing to high C2H2 capture (28.7 cm3 g−1 at 0.01 bar and 153 cm3 g−1 at 1 bar). The reusable Pt/Cu‐PDA efficiently separates C2H2 from C2H2/CO2 mixtures with satisfying selectivity and C2H2 capacity (37 min g−1). This research provides valuable insight into designing high‐performance MOFs for gas sorption and separation.
Optimizing Membranes for Osmotic Power Generation
Authors: Chu Chien‐Wei , Fauziah Amalia Rizki , Yeh Li‐Hsien
Published: April 2023

The design of ion‐selective membranes is the key towards efficient reverse electrodialysis‐based osmotic power conversion. The tradeoff between ion selectivity (output voltage) and ion permeability (output current) in existing porous membranes, however, limits the upgradation of power generation efficiency for practical applications. Thus, we provide the simple guidelines based on fundamentals of ion transport in nanofluidics for promoting osmotic power conversion. In addition, we discuss strategies for optimizing membrane performance through analysis of various material parameters in membrane design, such as pore size, surface charge, pore density, membrane thickness, ion pathway, pore order, and ionic diode effect. Lastly, a perspective on the future directions of membrane design to further maximize the efficiency of osmotic power conversion is outlined.
Ligand‐Controlled Stereoselective Synthesis and Biological Activity of 2‐Exomethylene Pseudo‐glycoconjugates: Discovery of Mincle‐Selective Ligands
Authors: Ikazaki Takahiro , Ishikawa Eri , Tamashima Hiroto , Akiyama Hisako , Kimuro Yusuke , Yoritate Makoto , Matoba Hiroaki , Imamura Akihiro , Ishida Hideharu , Yamasaki Sho , Hirai Go
Published: April 2023

Glycoconjugate analogues in which the sp3‐hybridized C2 position of the carbohydrate structure (normally bearing a hydroxy group) is converted into a compact sp2‐hybridized exomethylene group are expected to have unique biological activities. We established ligand‐controlled Tsuji–Trost‐type glycosylation methodology to directly prepare a variety of these 2‐exomethylene pseudo‐glycoconjugates, including glucosylceramide analogues, in an α‐ or β‐selective manner. Glucocerebrosidase GBA1 cleaves these synthetic pseudo‐β‐glucosylceramides similarly to native glucosylceramides. The pseudo‐glucosylceramides exhibit selective ligand activity towards macrophage‐inducible C‐type lectin (Mincle), but unlike native glucosylceramides, are inactive towards CD1d.
Origin of the Hydrophobic Behaviour of Hydrophilic CeO2
Authors: Agosta Lorenzo , Arismendi‐Arrieta Daniel , Dzugutov Mikhail , Hermansson Kersti
Published: April 2023

The nature of the hydrophobicity found in rare‐earth oxides is intriguing. The CeO2 (100) surface, despite its strongly hydrophilic nature, exhibits hydrophobic behaviour when immersed in water. In order to understand this puzzling and counter‐intuitive effect we performed a detailed analysis of the confined water structure and dynamics. We report here an ab‐initio molecular dynamics simulation (AIMD) study which demonstrates that the first adsorbed water layer, in immediate contact with the hydroxylated CeO2 surface, generates a hydrophobic interface with respect to the rest of the liquid water. The hydrophobicity is manifested in several ways: a considerable diffusion enhancement of the confined liquid water as compared with bulk water at the same thermodynamic condition, a weak adhesion energy and few H‐bonds above the hydrophobic water layer, which may also sustain a water droplet. These findings introduce a new concept in water/rare‐earth oxide interfaces: hydrophobicity mediated by specific water patterns on a hydrophilic surface.
Preparation of superhydrophobic surface from raspberry like particles of bifunctional polyssesquioxane
Authors: Mai Chongyang , Lv Chengcheng , Yang Li , Guo Yawen , Zhao Lielun , Jiang Yan , Zhang Hongwen
Published: April 2023

In this article, we selected MTMS and ETMS as mixed precursors to generate polysiloxane particles on the surface of styrene copolymer microspheres, forming raspberry‐like particles. The best experimental formula was obtained by orthogonal test. When the ratio of MTMS and ETMS was 3:1, the hydrophobic properties of composite particles reached the best, with a water contact angle (WCA) of 163° and a WSA of 3°. The hydrophobic models of raspberry particles were established. And the influence of gas–liquid contact components, surface roughness and precursor ratio on hydrophobic properties was clarified by theoretical calculation, Fourier transform infrared and X‐ray diffraction analysis. The prepared superhydrophobic surface shows great application potential in self‐cleaning, antifouling and other fields.
Thermodynamic Understanding of Impurity Phase Segregation in a PdCrO2/CuCrO2 Heterostructure
Authors: Ichibha Tom , Yoon Sangmoon , Ok Jong Mok , Yoon Mina , Lee Ho Nyung , Reboredo Fernando A.
Published: April 2023

PdCrO2 films are synthesized on CuCrO2 buffer layers on Al2O3 substrates. This synthesis is accompanied by impurity phase segregation, which hampers the synthesis of high quality PdCrO2 films. Potential causes ofth impurity phase segregation are studied by using a combination of experiments and ab initio calculations. X‐ray diffraction and scanning transmission electron microscopy experiments reveal impurity phases of CuxPd1 − x alloy and chromium oxides, Cr2O3 and Cr3O4, in PdCrO2. Calculations determine that oxygen deficiency can cause the impurity phase segregation. Therefore, preventing oxygen release from delafossites can suppress the impurity phase segregation. The amounts of Cr2O3 and Cr3O4 depend on temperature and oxygen partial pressure. A reasonable theory‐based explanation for this experimental observation is provided.
Regulation and function of poised mRNAs in lymphocytes
Authors: Turner Martin
Published: April 2023

Pre‐existing but untranslated or ‘poised’ mRNA exists as a means to rapidly induce the production of specific proteins in response to stimuli and as a safeguard to limit the actions of these proteins. The translation of poised mRNA enables immune cells to express quickly genes that enhance immune responses. The molecular mechanisms that repress the translation of poised mRNA and, upon stimulation, enable translation have yet to be elucidated. They likely reflect intrinsic properties of the mRNAs and their interactions with trans‐acting factors that direct poised mRNAs away from or into the ribosome. Here, I discuss mechanisms by which this might be regulated.