bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microsponge: A Novel Tool for Topical Drug Delivery of Anti Rheumatoid Drugs
Authors: Gohil Dipti , Patel Krupa , Patel Kruti , Tiwari Shivani , Patel Priyank , Shah Nirmal
Published: July 2021

Microsponge is developing field of technology which can achieve goal of site specific as well as controlled drug delivery. Physicochemical properties of microsponge like Particle size, particle size distribution, porosity, surface morphology plays a major role in selection of type of dosage form and route of administration for delivery of drug. Microsponge is also emerged as novel tool for delivering of drug by topical route. Topical route is having added advantage of formulation flexibility, greater patient compliance, improved safety and efficacy of formulation and aesthetic properties. Rheumatoid Arthritis is immunomodulatory disease which requires long term treatment for management of disease. Available oral formulation may cause liver toxicity upon long term use. Topical route can be suitable alternate route for delivery of drug with enhanced stability of drug, reduced side effects, and reduced frequency of administration. Due to porous and spongy structure of Microsponge, it has the capacity to entrap large amount of dose and can modify drug release too.
Bacteriological Quality of Potable Water Consumed in Cape Coast and Takoradi Metropolis, Ghana
Authors: Akwetey Samuel Addo , Oduro-Kwarteng Ernest , Ocran Priscilla , Anokye Kumi Nana , Donkor Allswell , Opare Priscilla Abena Ankamaa , Acheampong Desmond Omane , Kwakye-Nuako Godwin
Published: July 2021

Background: Bacterial contamination of potable water remains a global canker and has been reported to result in deaths from gastrointestinal infections. Treatment of gastrointestinal infections is becoming difficult due to antimicrobial resistance. This study sought to assess the bacteriological quality of potable water consumed in Cape Coast and Takoradi Metropolis of Ghana.

Methodology: Eighty-seven (87) samples of potable water were collected from various vicinities of Cape Coast (43) and Takoradi (44). The samples were analyzed for their bacterial loads using various laboratory bacteriological procedures and the resulting colonies were subjected to standard identification techniques. Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) was carried out to determine the susceptibility patterns of the various isolates.

Results: A total of 220 bacterial isolates were identified comprising 18 species, with Bacillus cereus. (13.6%), Staphylococcus aureus (8.5%), and Klebsiella sp. (10%), being predominant and Pseudomonas sp. (2.3%), Streptococcus sp. (1.8%), and Serratia sp. (0.5%) being less frequent.  Antimicrobial Sensitivity Testing (AST) revealed multiple antimicrobial-resistant bacteria including, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas sp., and Klebsiella sp. The average HPC and TCC of the various samples ranged from 0.20 - 1.94 x 108 CFU/ml and 0.00 - 2.39 x 108 CFU/ml respectively.

Conclusion: Some potable water in Cape Coast and Takoradi metropolis including most sachet water sold on the streets were found to be highly contaminated with bacteria.
Circulating integrin α4β7+ CD4 T cells are enriched for proliferative transcriptional programs in HIV infection
Authors: Lakshmanappa Yashavanth S. , Roh Jamin W. , Rane Niharika N. , Dinasarapu Ashok R. , Tran Daphne D. , Velu Vijayakumar , Sheth Anandi N. , Ofotokun Igho , Amara Rama R. , Kelley Colleen F. , Waetjen Elaine , Iyer Smita S.
Published: July 2021

HIV preferentially infects α4β7+ CD4 T cells, forming latent reservoirs that contribute to HIV persistence during antiretroviral therapy. However, the properties of α4β7+ CD4 T cells in blood and mucosal compartments remain understudied. Employing two distinct models of HIV infection, HIV‐infected humans and simian–human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV)‐infected rhesus macaques, we show that α4β7+ CD4 T cells in blood are enriched for genes regulating cell cycle progression and cellular metabolism. Unlike their circulating counterparts, rectal α4β7+ CD4 T cells exhibited a core tissue‐residency gene expression program. These features were conserved across primate species, indicating that the environment influences memory T‐cell transcriptional networks. Our findings provide an important molecular foundation for understanding the role of α4β7 in HIV infection.
Improved forest management as a natural climate solution: A review
Authors: Kaarakka Lilli , Cornett Meredith , Domke Grant , Ontl Todd , Dee Laura E.
Published: July 2021

Natural climate solutions (NCS), a set of land management, conservation and restoration practices aimed at mitigating climate change, have been introduced as cost‐effective strategies to increase carbon (C) sequestration in terrestrial ecosystems. Improved forest management (IFM) has been identified as one NCS for working forests with substantial climate change mitigation potential. However, there is a disconnect between the policy and carbon markets context and the scientific evidence for verifiable C benefits. Further, forest soil C—the largest forest C pool—has largely been excluded from current forest management guidelines and has not been included in the IFM discourse.

Herein, we assess the evidence for the potential of specific IFM practices to sequester C in live forest vegetation and store it in both live and dead organic matter, and forest soil. We review IFM approaches that can enhance forest C storage, and links to best management practices and silvicultural systems to offer guidance for practitioners and researchers in the Great Lakes region of the United States. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and opportunities in including soil C in forest C management guidelines and frameworks.
An investigation of using log‐file analysis for automated patient‐specific quality assurance in MRgRT
Authors: Lim Seng Boh , Godoy Scripes Paola , Napolitano Mary , Subashi Ergys , Tyagi Neelam , Cervino Arriba Laura , Lovelock Dale Michael
Published: July 2021

Objective

Adaptive radiation therapy (ART) is an integral part of MR‐guided RT (MRgRT), requiring a new RT plan for each treatment fraction and resulting in a significant increase in patient‐specific quality assurance (PSQA). This study investigates the possibility of using treatment log‐file for automated PSQA.

Method

All treatment plans were delivered in 1.5T Unity MR‐Linac (Elekta). A Unity compatible version of LinacView (Standard Imaging) was commissioned to automatically monitor and analyze the log‐files. A total of 220 fields were delivered and measured by ArcCheck®‐MR (Sun Nuclear) and LinacView. Thirty incorrectly matched fields were also delivered to check for error detection sensitivity. The gamma analysis, γ, with 3%, 3 mm criteria was used in both ArcCheck®‐MR and LinacView. Additionally, the gantry angle, jaws, and multileaf collimators (MLC) positions reported in the log‐file were compared with plan positions using TG‐142 criteria.

Result

The γ (3%, 3 mm) for the 190 plans were found to be between the range of 72.5%–100.0% and 95.4%–100.0% for ArcCheck®‐MR and LinacVeiw, respectively. All the delivered gantry angle and jaws were found to be within 0.2° and 2 mm. MLCs that were outside the guard leaves or under the diaphragms were found to have more than 1.0 mm discrepancy. This was attributed to the linac internal override for these MLCs and had no dosimetric impact. Excluding these discrepancies, all MLC positions were found to be within 1.0 mm. The γ (3%, 3 mm) for the 30 incorrectly matched fields were found to be 3.9%–84.8% and 0.1%–64.4% for ArcCheck®‐MR and LinacVeiw, respectively.

Conclusion

Significant ranked correlation demonstrates the automated log‐file analysis can be used for PSQA and expedite the ART workflow. Ongoing PSQA will be compared with log‐file analysis to investigate the longer term reproducibility and correlation.
Highly Efficient Ternary Solar Cells with Efficient Förster Resonance Energy Transfer for Simultaneously Enhanced Photovoltaic Parameters
Authors: Xiao Liangang , Wu Xing , Ren Guoxing , Kolaczkowski Matthew A. , Huang Guang , Tan Wanyi , Ma Lin , Liu Yidong , Peng Xiaobin , Min Yonggang , Liu Yi
Published: July 2021

Introducing a third component into organic bulk heterojunction solar cells has become an effective strategy to improve photovoltaic performance. Meanwhile, the rapid development of non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) has pushed the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells (OSCs) to a higher standard. Herein, a series of fullerene‐free ternary solar cells are fabricated based on a wide bandgap acceptor, IDTT‐M, together with a wide bandgap donor polymer PM6 and a narrow bandgap NFA Y6. Insights from the morphological and electronic characterizations reveal that IDTT‐M has been incorporated into Y6 domains without disrupting its molecular packing and sacrificing its electron mobility and work synergistically with Y6 to regulate the packing pattern of PM6, leading to enhanced hole mobility and suppressed recombination. IDTT‐M further functions as an energy‐level mediator that increases open‐circuit voltage (VOC) in ternary devices. In addition, efficient Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) between IDTT‐M and Y6 provides a non‐radiative pathway for facilitating exciton dissociation and charge collection. As a result, the optimized ternary device features a significantly improved PCE up to 16.63% with simultaneously enhanced short‐circuit current (JSC), VOC, and fill factor (FF).
Bio‐Multifunctional Hydrogel Patches for Repairing Full‐Thickness Abdominal Wall Defects
Authors: Yin Xiangyi , Hao Yuanping , Lu Yun , Zhang Dongjie , Zhao Yaodong , Mei Li , Sui Kunyan , Zhou Qihui , Hu Jilin
Published: July 2021

Developing bio‐multifunctional patches with natural extracellular matrix‐like structures, excellent high adhesion in the wet state, self‐healing ability, antibacterial activity, and favorable cell responses for accelerating tissue healing is highly desirable in clinical applications. Herein, bio‐multifunctional composite hydrogels are developed by coupling carboxymethyl chitosan and 4‐arm poly (ethylene glycol) aldehyde for full‐thickness abdominal wall defect repair. The prepared hydrogels exhibit excellent self‐healing and mechanical properties, high adhesion in the wet state, and significant antibacterial ability. In vitro cellular experiments show that the hydrogels combined with recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor remarkably promote cell proliferation and then accelerate full‐thickness abdominal wall defect repair in a rat model. The histomorphological evaluation shows that compared to the commercial polypropylene mesh used clinically, the designed hydrogel patches facilitate an increase in the thickness and integrity of the abdominal wall tissue by upregulating the production of Ki67, enhancing the formation of collagen, inducing neovascularization, and inhibiting inflammation by reducing the expression of IL‐6, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β. The results demonstrate that this novel bio‐multifunctional hydrogel patch holds great potential for the treatment of full‐thickness abdominal wall defects.
A Meta‐Analysis of Conductive and Strong Carbon Nanotube Materials
Authors: Bulmer John S. , Kaniyoor Adarsh , Elliott James A.
Published: July 2021

A study of 1304 data points collated over 266 papers statistically evaluates the relationships between carbon nanotube (CNT) material characteristics, including: electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties; ampacity; density; purity; microstructure alignment; molecular dimensions and graphitic perfection; and doping. Compared to conductive polymers and graphitic intercalation compounds, which have exceeded the electrical conductivity of copper, CNT materials are currently one‐sixth of copper's conductivity, mechanically on‐par with synthetic or carbon fibers, and exceed all the other materials in terms of a multifunctional metric. Doped, aligned few‐wall CNTs (FWCNTs) are the most superior CNT category; from this, the acid‐spun fiber subset are the most conductive, and the subset of fibers directly spun from floating catalyst chemical vapor deposition are strongest on a weight basis. The thermal conductivity of multiwall CNT material rivals that of FWCNT materials. Ampacity follows a diameter‐dependent power‐law from nanometer to millimeter scales. Undoped, aligned FWCNT material reaches the intrinsic conductivity of CNT bundles and single‐crystal graphite, illustrating an intrinsic limit requiring doping for copper‐level conductivities. Comparing an assembly of CNTs (forming mesoscopic bundles, then macroscopic material) to an assembly of graphene (forming single‐crystal graphite crystallites, then carbon fiber), the ≈1 µm room‐temperature, phonon‐limited mean‐free‐path shared between graphene, metallic CNTs, and activated semiconducting CNTs is highlighted, deemphasizing all metallic helicities for CNT power transmission applications.
Ultrafast Photoconductivity and Terahertz Vibrational Dynamics in Double‐Helix SnIP Nanowires
Authors: Purschke David N. , Pielmeier Markus R. P. , Üzer Ebru , Ott Claudia , Jensen Charles , Degg Annabelle , Vogel Anna , Amer Naaman , Nilges Tom , Hegmann Frank A.
Published: July 2021

Tin iodide phosphide (SnIP), an inorganic double‐helix material, is a quasi‐1D van der Waals semiconductor that shows promise in photocatalysis and flexible electronics. However, the understanding of the fundamental photophysics and charge transport dynamics of this new material is limited. Here, time‐resolved terahertz (THz) spectroscopy is used to probe the transient photoconductivity of SnIP nanowire films and measure the carrier mobility. With insight into the highly anisotropic electronic structure from quantum chemical calculations, an electron mobility as high as 280 cm2  V−1s−1 along the double‐helix axis and a hole mobility of 238 cm2  V−1 s−1 perpendicular to the double‐helix axis are detected. Additionally, infrared‐active (IR‐active) THz vibrational modes are measured, which shows excellent agreement with first‐principles calculations, and an ultrafast photoexcitation‐induced charge redistribution is observed that reduces the amplitude of a twisting mode of the outer SnI helix on picosecond timescales. Finally, it is shown that the carrier lifetime and mobility are limited by a trap density greater than 1018 cm−3. The results provide insight into the optical excitation and relaxation pathways of SnIP and demonstrate a remarkably high carrier mobility for such a soft and flexible material, suggesting that it could be ideally suited for flexible electronics applications.
Secreted Expression of mRNA‐Encoded Truncated ACE2 Variants for SARS‐CoV‐2 via Lipid‐Like Nanoassemblies
Authors: Li Min , Li Sanpeng , Huang Yixuan , Chen Haixia , Zhang Songya , Zhang Zhicheng , Wu Weigang , Zeng Xiaobin , Zhou Boping , Li Bin
Published: July 2021

The transfer of foreign synthetic messenger RNA (mRNA) into cells is essential for mRNA‐based protein‐replacement therapies. Prophylactic mRNA COVID‐19 vaccines commonly utilize nanotechnology to deliver mRNA encoding SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine antigens, thereby triggering the body's immune response and preventing infections. In this study, a new combinatorial library of symmetric lipid‐like compounds is constructed, and among which a lead compound is selected to prepare lipid‐like nanoassemblies (LLNs) for intracellular delivery of mRNA. After multiround optimization, the mRNA formulated into core–shell‐structured LLNs exhibits more than three orders of magnitude higher resistance to serum than the unprotected mRNA, and leads to sustained and high‐level protein expression in mammalian cells. A single intravenous injection of LLNs into mice achieves over 95% mRNA translation in the spleen, without causing significant hematological and histological changes. Delivery of in‐vitro‐transcribed mRNA that encodes high‐affinity truncated ACE2 variants (tACE2v mRNA) through LLNs induces elevated expression and secretion of tACE2v decoys, which is able to effectively block the binding of the receptor‐binding domain of the SARS‐CoV‐2 to the human ACE2 receptor. The robust neutralization activity in vitro suggests that intracellular delivery of mRNA encoding ACE2 receptor mimics via LLNs may represent a potential intervention strategy for COVID‐19.
Production of Multiple Cell‐Laden Microtissue Spheroids with a Biomimetic Hepatic‐Lobule‐Like Structure
Authors: Hong Gyusik , Kim Jin , Oh Hyeongkwon , Yun Seokhwan , Kim Chul Min , Jeong Yun‐Mi , Yun Won‐Soo , Shim Jin‐Hyung , Jang Ilho , Kim C‐Yoon , Jin Songwan
Published: July 2021

The construction of an in vitro 3D cellular model to mimic the human liver is highly desired for drug discovery and clinical applications, such as patient‐specific treatment and cell‐based therapy in regenerative medicine. However, current bioprinting strategies are limited in their ability to generate multiple cell‐laden microtissues with biomimetic structures. This study presents a method for producing hepatic‐lobule‐like microtissue spheroids using a bioprinting system incorporating a precursor cartridge and microfluidic emulsification system. The multiple cell‐laden microtissue spheroids can be successfully generated at a speed of approximately 45 spheroids min−1 and with a uniform diameter. Hepatic and endothelial cells are patterned in a microtissue spheroid with the biomimetic structure of a liver lobule. The spheroids allow long‐term culture with high cell viability, and the structural integrity is maintained longer than that of non‐structured spheroids. Furthermore, structured spheroids show high MRP2, albumin, and CD31 expression levels. In addition, the in vivo study reveals that structured microtissue spheroids are stably engrafted. These results demonstrate that the method provides a valuable 3D structured microtissue spheroid model with lobule‐like constructs and liver functions.
Electromagnetic Field‐Programmed Magnetic Vortex Nanodelivery System for Efficacious Cancer Therapy
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Zhang Yifan , Guo Yu , Jiao Wangbo , Gao Xiao , Lee Wee Siang Vincent , Wang Yanyun , Deng Xia , He Yuan , Jiao Ju , Zhang Ce , Hu Guoqing , Liang Xing‐Jie , Fan Haiming
Published: July 2021

Effective delivery of anticancer drugs into the nucleus for pharmacological action is impeded by a series of intratumoral transport barriers. Despite the significant potential of magnetic nanovehicles in electromagnetic field (EF)‐activated drug delivery, modularizing a tandem magnetoresponsive activity in a one‐nanoparticle system to meet different requirements at both tissue and cellular levels remain highly challenging. Herein, a strategy is described by employing sequential EF frequencies in inducing a succession of magnetoresponses in the magnetic nanovehicles that aims to realize cascaded tissue penetration and nuclear accumulation. This nanovehicle features ferrimagnetic vortex‐domain iron oxide nanorings coated with a thermo‐responsive polyethylenimine copolymer (PI/FVIOs). It is shown that the programmed cascading of low frequency (Lf)‐EF‐induced magnetophoresis and medium frequency (Mf)‐EF‐stimulated magneto‐thermia can steer the Doxorubicin (DOX)‐PI/FVIOs to the deep tissue and subsequently trigger intracellular burst release of DOX for successful nuclear entry. By programming the order of different EF frequencies, it is demonstrated that first‐stage Lf‐EF and subsequent Mf‐EF operation enables DOX‐PI/FVIOs to effectively deliver 86.2% drug into the nucleus in vivo. This nanodelivery system empowers potent antitumoral activity in various models of intractable tumors, including DOX‐resistant MCF‐7 breast cancer cells, triple‐negative MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells, and BxPC‐3 pancreatic cancer cells with poor permeability.
Collaborative Equilibrium Coupling of Catalytic DNA Nanostructures Enables Programmable Detection of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Chen Yuan , Sundah Noah R. , Ho Nicholas R. Y. , Natalia Auginia , Liu Yu , Miow Qing Hao , Wang Yu , Beh Darius L. L. , Chew Ka Lip , Chan Douglas , Tambyah Paul A. , Ong Catherine W. M. , Shao Huilin
Published: July 2021

Accessible and adaptable nucleic acid diagnostics remains a critical challenge in managing the evolving COVID‐19 pandemic. Here, an integrated molecular nanotechnology that enables direct and programmable detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA targets in native patient specimens is reported. Termed synergistic coupling of responsive equilibrium in enzymatic network (SCREEN), the technology leverages tunable, catalytic molecular nanostructures to establish an interconnected, collaborative architecture. SCREEN mimics the extraordinary organization and functionality of cellular signaling cascades. Through programmable enzyme–DNA nanostructures, SCREEN activates upon interaction with different RNA targets to initiate multi‐enzyme catalysis; through system‐wide favorable equilibrium shifting, SCREEN directly transduces a single target binding into an amplified electrical signal. To establish collaborative equilibrium coupling in the architecture, a computational model that simulates all reactions to predict overall performance and optimize assay configuration is developed. The developed platform achieves direct and sensitive RNA detection (approaching single‐copy detection), fast response (assay reaction is completed within 30 min at room temperature), and robust programmability (across different genetic loci of SARS‐CoV‐2). When clinically evaluated, the technology demonstrates robust and direct detection in clinical swab lysates to accurately diagnose COVID‐19 patients.
Reduced Acrolein Detoxification in akr1a1a Zebrafish Mutants Causes Impaired Insulin Receptor Signaling and Microvascular Alterations
Authors: Qi Haozhe , Schmöhl Felix , Li Xiaogang , Qian Xin , Tabler Christoph T. , Bennewitz Katrin , Sticht Carsten , Morgenstern Jakob , Fleming Thomas , Volk Nadine , Hausser Ingrid , Heidenreich Elena , Hell Rüdiger , Nawroth Peter Paul , Kroll Jens
Published: July 2021

Increased acrolein (ACR), a toxic metabolite derived from energy consumption, is associated with diabetes and its complications. However, the molecular mechanisms are mostly unknown, and a suitable animal model with internal increased ACR does not exist for in vivo studying so far. Several enzyme systems are responsible for acrolein detoxification, such as Aldehyde Dehydrogenase (ALDH), Aldo‐Keto Reductase (AKR), and Glutathione S‐Transferase (GST). To evaluate the function of ACR in glucose homeostasis and diabetes, akr1a1a−/− zebrafish mutants are generated using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Accumulated endogenous acrolein is confirmed in akr1a1a−/− larvae and livers of adults. Moreover, a series of experiments are performed regarding organic alterations, the glucose homeostasis, transcriptome, and metabolomics in Tg(fli1:EGFP) zebrafish. Akr1a1a−/− larvae display impaired glucose homeostasis and angiogenic retina hyaloid vasculature, which are caused by reduced acrolein detoxification ability and increased internal ACR concentration. The effects of acrolein on hyaloid vasculature can be reversed by acrolein‐scavenger l‐carnosine treatment. In adult akr1a1a−/− mutants, impaired glucose tolerance accompanied by angiogenic retina vessels and glomerular basement membrane thickening, consistent with an early pathological appearance in diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy, are observed. Thus, the data strongly suggest impaired ACR detoxification and elevated ACR concentration as biomarkers and inducers for diabetes and diabetic complications.
Effect of Bias Voltage on Substrate for the Structure and Electrical Properties of Y:HfO2 Thin Films Deposited by Reactive Magnetron Co‐Sputtering
Authors: Zhang Weiqi , Zhou Dayu , Sun Nana , Wang Jingjing , Li Shuaidong
Published: July 2021

HfO2 thin film has been widely studied as the most promising candidate material for microelectronic devices. However, low leakage current density is the prerequisite for the excellent performance of devices. Therefore, effects of substrate bias duty ratio and frequency on the roughness and leakage current density are studied for the Y:HfO2 thin films deposited by reactive magnetron co‐sputtering method. The results illustrate that the substrate bias duty ratio and frequency influence the leakage current density through grain size and roughness of films. An appropriate substrate bias is beneficial to the densification of films and the reduction of leakage current. When the substrate bias duty cycle is 30.1% at the frequency of 19.7 kHz, the roughness and leakage current density of films are reduced to 0.4 nm and 8.8 × 10−8 A cm−2, respectively.
Leveling the field: Development of reliable scoring rubrics for quantitative and qualitative medical education research abstracts
Authors: Jordan Jaime , Hopson Laura R. , Molins Caroline , Bentley Suzanne K. , Deiorio Nicole M. , Santen Sally A. , Yarris Lalena M. , Coates Wendy C. , Gisondi Michael A.
Published: July 2021

Background

Research abstracts are submitted for presentation at scientific conferences; however, criteria for judging abstracts are variable. We sought to develop two rigorous abstract scoring rubrics for education research submissions reporting (1) quantitative data and (2) qualitative data and then to collect validity evidence to support score interpretation.

Methods

We used a modified Delphi method to achieve expert consensus for scoring rubric items to optimize content validity. Eight education research experts participated in two separate modified Delphi processes, one to generate quantitative research items and one for qualitative. Modifications were made between rounds based on item scores and expert feedback. Homogeneity of ratings in the Delphi process was calculated using Cronbach's alpha, with increasing homogeneity considered an indication of consensus. Rubrics were piloted by scoring abstracts from 22 quantitative publications fromAEM Education and Training“Critical Appraisal of Emergency Medicine Education Research” (11 highlighted for excellent methodology and 11 that were not) and 10 qualitative publications (five highlighted for excellent methodology and five that were not). Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) estimates of reliability were calculated.

Results

Each rubric required three rounds of a modified Delphi process. The resulting quantitative rubric contained nine items: quality of objectives, appropriateness of methods, outcomes, data analysis, generalizability, importance to medical education, innovation, quality of writing, and strength of conclusions (Cronbach's α for the third round = 0.922, ICC for total scores during piloting = 0.893). The resulting qualitative rubric contained seven items: quality of study aims, general methods, data collection, sampling, data analysis, writing quality, and strength of conclusions (Cronbach's α for the third round = 0.913, ICC for the total scores during piloting = 0.788).

Conclusion

We developed scoring rubrics to assess quality in quantitative and qualitative medical education research abstracts to aid in selection for presentation at scientific meetings. Our tools demonstrated high reliability.
Data from a public–industry partnership for enhancing corn nitrogen research
Authors: Ransom Curtis J. , Clark Jason , Bean Gregory Mac , Bandura Chris , Shafer Matthew E. , Kitchen Newell R. , Camberato James J. , Carter Paul R. , Ferguson Richard B. , Fernández Fabián , Franzen David W. , Laboski Carrie A.M. , Myers D. Brenton , Nafziger Emerson D. , Sawyer John E. , Shanahan John
Published: July 2021

Improving corn (Zeamays L.) N managementis pertinent to economic andenvironmental objectives. However, there are limited comprehensive data sources to develop and test N fertilizer decision aid tools across a wide geographic range of soil and weather scenarios. Therefore, a public‐industry partnership was formed to conduct standardized corn N rate response field studies throughout the U.S. Midwest. This research was conducted using a standardized protocol at 49 site‐years across eight states over the 2014–2016 growing seasons with many soil, plant, and weather related measurements. This note provides the data (found in supplemental files), outlines the data, summarizes key findings, and highlights the strengths and weakness for those who wish to use this dataset.
Understanding consumer attitudes towards ecolabeled food products: A latent class analysis regarding their purchasing motivations
Authors: Grymshi Desjana , Crespo‐Cebada Eva , Elghannam Ahmed , Mesías Francisco J. , Díaz‐Caro Carlos
Published: July 2021

Ecolabeling is a tool used to promote and support more sustainable products by providing information that enables consumers to select products with better environmental performance. Ecolabels, therefore, can help create social awareness around sustainable consumption and promote respectful attitudes toward the environment, thus generating responsible consumption habits among the consumers. This study aims to analyze the heterogeneity of consumers' motivations in the process of purchasing food products with ecolabels. Additionally, it intends to study consumer typologies regarding their purchasing motivations toward ecolabeled food products to determine possible differences in socioeconomic variables, consumption, and consumer knowledge for these products. To this aim, a total number of 419 questionnaires were collected in Spain during January–February 2019 and a latent class analysis was implemented to segment consumers. The main findings of this study show three types of consumers (indifferent, committed, and skeptical), which present different characteristics, especially regarding their level of knowledge and consumption patterns. [EconLit Citations: M31, O13, Q13, Q56].
Fabrication of phytic acid embellished kaolinite and its effect on the flame retardancy and thermal stability of ethylene vinyl acetate composites
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Meng Dan , Wang Wenjia , Li Hongfei , Gu Xiaoyu , Zhang Sheng , Sun Jun , Xin Fei , Qin Zuodong , Tang Wufei
Published: July 2021

A modified kaolinite by grafting with phytic acid (PA‐g‐Kaol) is fabricated, and it was introduced into ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) with intumescent flame retardancy (IFR) together to improve the flame retardancy of EVA composites. The results show the limiting oxygen index value of EVA/ (18.0 wt% IFR)/ (2.0 wt% PA‐g‐Kaol) is 30.8%. Meanwhile, there is only one dripping produced in the vertical burning test. What's more, the flame‐retardant mechanism is demonstrated by TG‐IR, real‐time‐IR and GC–MS analysis. The results indicate that some pyrolytic products of IFR and PA‐g‐Kaol, like ammonia and phosphoric acid, catalyze the crosslinking of EVA and flame retardant, the resultant compact char protects the substrate from further burning.
Dodecenylsuccinic anhydride modified chitosan hydrogels for the sustained delivery of hydrophobic drugs. The case of thymol buccal delivery
Authors: Alvarez Echazú María I. , Antona María E. , Perna Oriana , Olivetti Christian E. , Alvarez Gisela S. , Macri Elisa V. , Perez Claudio J. , Czerner Marina , Friedman Silvia M. , Desimone Martín F.
Published: July 2021

Chitosan polymer as a bioactive carrier has an emerging importance due to its great versatility. Many strategies are reported for enhancing its properties. Herein, chitosan hydrogels modified by dodecenylsuccinic anhydride (DDSA) are prepared, characterized by SEM, FTIR, 13C NMR while their mechanical properties and cytotoxicity are assessed. Chitosan modification was studied by FTIR and 13C NMR. According to rheological measurements, modified chitosan hydrogels present a predominantly elastic behavior and exert a higher compressive strength than chitosan hydrogels. Furthermore, this work evaluates thymol incorporation, its release profile as well as its in vivo performance in a periodontitis rat model. In vitro studies reveal that thymol‐loaded‐DDSA‐chitosan hydrogels possess antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa for 2 days and antioxidant activity for 5 days. The incorporation of hydrophobic chains improves thymol release profile; however, DDSA‐chitosan hydrogels cytotoxicity is greater when compared to chitosan hydrogels. Finally, in a preliminary in vivo study, the local application of thymol‐loaded hydrogels is evaluated during a one‐week period. The histomorphometric measurements indicate that periodontal damage is lower when thymol is administrated in chitosan hydrogels in comparison to DDSA‐chitosan hydrogels. Nevertheless, DDSA‐chitosan hydrogels could still be useful for the sustained local delivery of hydrophobic drugs.
The contribution of non‐destructive geophysical surveys to archaeological research of early medieval hillforts in Bohemia: A case study of the Tismice hillfort area
Authors: Krivanek Roman
Published: July 2021

Geophysical surveys of different areas of fortified prehistoric or early medieval hillforts are one of the long‐term topics of non‐destructive Czech archaeology. Different stages of geophysical measurements at the site of the early medieval hillfort near Tismice have been carried out under various circumstances of archaeological study in the area. The total full‐area magnetometer survey of all agricultural areas of the hillfort produced new spatial information for subsequent archaeological research of the supra‐regional Slavic centre from before the demise of the Slavník dynasty and the rise of the Přemyslids.
Contribution of Rare Genetic Variation to Disease Susceptibility in a Large Scandinavian Myositis Cohort
Authors: Bianchi Matteo , Kozyrev Sergey V. , Notarnicola Antonella , Hultin Rosenberg Lina , Karlsson Åsa , Pucholt Pascal , Rothwell Simon , Alexsson Andrei , Sandling Johanna K. , Andersson Helena , Cooper Robert G. , Padyukov Leonid , Tjärnlund Anna , Dastmalchi Maryam ,   The ImmunoArray Development Consortium,   The DISSECT Consortium, Meadows Jennifer R. S. , Pyndt Diederichsen Louise , Molberg Øyvind , Chinoy Hector , Lamb Janine A. , Rönnblom Lars , Lindblad‐Toh Kerstin , Lundberg Ingrid E.
Published: July 2021

Objective

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) are a heterogeneous group of complex autoimmune conditions characterized by inflammation in skeletal muscle and extramuscular compartments, and interferon (IFN) system activation. We undertook this study to examine the contribution of genetic variation to disease susceptibility and to identify novel avenues for research in IIMs.

Methods

Targeted DNA sequencing was used to mine coding and potentially regulatory single nucleotide variants from ~1,900 immune‐related genes in a Scandinavian case–control cohort of 454 IIM patients and 1,024 healthy controls. Gene‐based aggregate testing, together with rare variant– and gene‐level enrichment analyses, was implemented to explore genotype–phenotype relations.

Results

Gene‐based aggregate tests of all variants, including rare variants, identified IFI35 as a potential genetic risk locus for IIMs, suggesting a genetic signature of type I IFN pathway activation. Functional annotation of the IFI35 locus highlighted a regulatory network linked to the skeletal muscle–specific gene PTGES3L, as a potential candidate for IIM pathogenesis. Aggregate genetic associations with AGER and PSMB8 in the major histocompatibility complex locus were detected in the antisynthetase syndrome subgroup, which also showed a less marked genetic signature of the type I IFN pathway. Enrichment analyses indicated a burden of synonymous and noncoding rare variants in IIM patients, suggesting increased disease predisposition associated with these classes of rare variants.

Conclusion

Our study suggests the contribution of rare genetic variation to disease susceptibility in IIM and specific patient subgroups, and pinpoints genetic associations consistent with previous findings by gene expression profiling. These features highlight genetic profiles that are potentially relevant to disease pathogenesis.
Ligand‐assisted Hydride Transfer: A Pivotal Step for CO2 Hydroboration Catalyzed by a Mononuclear Mn(I) PNP Complex
Authors: Wan Xiang , Li Man , Liao Rong‐Zhen
Published: July 2021

A mononuclear Mn(I) pincer complex [Mn(Ph2PCH2SiMe2)2NH(CO)2Br] was disclosed to catalyze the pinacolborane (HBpin)‐based CO2 hydroboration reaction. Density functional calculations were conducted to reveal the reaction mechanism. The calculations showed that the reaction mechanism could be divided into four stages: (1) the addition of HBpin to the unsaturated catalyst C1; (2) the reduction of CO2 to HCOOBpin; (3) the reduction of HCOOBpin to HCHO; (4) the reduction of HCHO to CH3OBpin. The activation of HBpin is the ligand‐assisted addition of HBpin to the unsaturated Mn(I)‐N complex C1 generated by the elimination of HBr from the Mn(I) pincer catalyst. The sequential substrate reductions share a common mechanism, and every hydroboration commences with the nucleophilic attack of the Mn(I)‐H to the electron‐deficient carbon centers. The hydride transfer from Mn(I) to HCOOBpin was found to be the rate‐limiting step for the whole catalytic reaction, with a total barrier of 27.0 kcal/mol, which fits well with the experimental observations at 90 °C. The reactivity trend of CO2, HCOOBpin, HCHO, and CH3OBpin was analyzed through both thermodynamic and kinetic analysis, in the following order, namely HCHO>CO2>HCOOBpin≫CH3OBpin. Importantly, the very high barrier for the reduction of CH3OBpin to form CH4 reconciles with the fact that methane was not observed in this catalytic reaction.
Synthesis of Functionalized Aliphatic Acid Esters via the Generation of Alkyl Radicals from Silylperoxyacetals
Authors: Matsumoto Akira , Shiozaki Yoko , Sakurai Shunya , Maruoka Keiji
Published: July 2021

We describe a catalytic method for the synthesis of a variety of functionalized aliphatic acid esters using silylperoxyacetals, which are versatile alkyl radical precursors with a terminal ester moiety. In the presence of an appropriate transition‐metal catalyst, the in situ generation of alkyl radicals and the subsequent bond‐forming process proceeds smoothly to afford synthetically valuable aliphatic acid derivatives. The present method can be applied to the efficient synthesis of a pharmaceutically important 1,1‐diarylalkane motif. In addition, a novel strategy for the synthesis of structurally diverse hydroxy acid derivatives via a C−O bond formation process that utilizes TEMPO has been developed.
NLTE CNO abundances in a sample of nine field RR Lyr type stars
Authors: Andrievsky Sergei M. , Korotin Sergey A. , Kovtyukh Valery V. , Khrapaty Sergey V. , Rudyak Yuri
Published: July 2021

For the first time, a direct non‐local thermodynamic equilibrium (NLTE) analysis of carbon and nitrogen lines in the spectra of nine RR Lyrae stars was carried out. We have determined the abundances of these elements together with oxygen, and have shown that the nitrogen content is increased in metallicity‐deficient program stars. We conclude that this is a sign of the first dredge up, which occurred at the previous stage of the red giant branch, and brought material processed in an incomplete carbon, nitrogen, oxygen (CNO) cycle to the surface of the star. This effect is significantly enhanced by thermohaline (extra‐) mixing, which is more effective for metal‐poor RR Lyrae stars. This is clearly seen in the plot showing that C/N ration in our sample of stars gradually decreases as metallicity decreases from about −0.2 to −2. Oxygen abundance depends on metallicity in a similar way to what we see in the Population II stars.
Epistemology of the Nakba in Israeli education
Authors: Gideon Ido
Published: July 2021

In Israel, the Israeli–Palestinian conflict is the most fundamental political and moral issue current and future citizens face. If we accept the maxim that schools should prepare citizens for participation in determining the future of their state, Israeli students must be introduced to the historical, political and moral questions at the heart of the conflict. But this responsibility of Israeli schools and teachers is a highly contentious issue. The most important issue in Israeli political education is thus the hardest to teach. In this article I argue that, despite considerable educational and political risks, teaching Jewish Israeli students about the 1948 Palestinian Nakba (alternatively known as the Israeli War of Independence) holds substantial potential for their epistemic development as capable knowers. I begin by reviewing the political, dialogical, cognitive and epistemic deficits in Israeli education, highlighting how the Nakba is suppressed in history and citizenship education. By analysing the epistemic context of the Nakba in Israeli society and education, I present two pedagogical approaches for teaching controversial issues, arguing for an inquiry‐based approach over the widely held approach. I demonstrate the benefits of an inquiry‐based approach in the context of history education. In the final section of the article, I build on the case of the Nakba to argue for a new epistemic framework for Israeli citizenship education. I begin by outlining the shortcomings of the current epistemic framework of the subject and point to possible future directions for the subject.
Toward conditional control of Smac mimetic activity by RNA‐templated reduction of azidopeptides on PNA or 2′‐OMe‐RNA
Authors: Altrichter Yannic , Schöller Justus , Seitz Oliver
Published: July 2021

Oligonucleotide templated reactions can be used to control the activity of functional molecules based on the presence of a specific trigger sequence. We report an RNA‐controlled reaction system to conditionally restore the N‐terminal amino group and thus binding affinity of azide‐modified Smac mimetic compounds (SMCs) for their target protein X‐linked Inhibitor of Apoptosis Protein (XIAP). Two templated reactions were compared: Staudinger reduction with phosphines and a photocatalytic reaction with Ru(bpy)2(mcbpy). The latter proved faster and more efficient, especially for the activation of a bivalent SMC, which requires two consecutive reduction steps. The templated reaction proceeds with turnover when 2′‐OMe‐RNA probes are used, but is significantly more efficient with PNA, catalyzing a reaction in the presence of low, substoichiometric amounts (1%‐3%, 10 nM) of target RNA.
Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging criteria for predicting lymph node metastasis in patients with stage IB1‐IIA2 cervical cancer
Authors: He Fangjie , Zu Shuiling , Chen Xia , Liu Jianping , Yi Ying , Yang Haijun , Wang Fuqiang , Yuan Songhua
Published: July 2021

Objective

This study aimed to identify patients with stage IB1‐IIA2 cervical cancer at low risk for lymph node metastasis (LNM) using preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) parameters.

Methods

Clinical and MRI data of patients with stage IB1‐IIA2 cervical cancer who underwent radical surgery between 2010 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical stage IB1‐IIA2 cervical cancer was diagnosed according to the 2009 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics staging system. The low‐risk criteria for LNM were identified using logistic regression analysis. The performance of the logistic regression analysis was estimated through receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

Of 453 patients, 105 (23.2%) exhibited pathological LNM (p‐LNM). The maximal tumor diameter (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.586; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.312–1.916; p < 0.001) and LNM (aOR, 2.384; 95% CI, 1.418–4.007; p = 0.001) on preoperative MRI (m‐LNM) were identified as independent risk factors for p‐LNM using a multivariate logistic analysis. The p‐LNM rate was 4.0% for low‐risk patients (n = 124) identified using the current criteria (maximal tumor diameter <3.0 cm and no sign of m‐LNM). The 5‐year disease‐free survival rate of low‐risk patients was significantly greater than the rate of patients with a maximal tumor diameter ˃3.0 cm and/or signs of m‐LNM (90.4% vs. 82.1%; p = 0.033).

Conclusions

The low‐risk criteria for p‐LNM were a maximal tumor diameter <3.0 cm and no sign of m‐LNM. Patients with stage IB1‐IIA2 cervical cancer at low risk for m‐LNM could be candidates for radical surgery; hence, they have a lesser need for adjuvant chemoradiotherapy, thus avoiding the severe comorbidities it causes.
Value priorities of the Finnish farmers—Time to stop thinking of farmers as inherently conservative and traditional
Authors: Sorvali Jaana , Kaseva Janne , Vainio Annukka , Verkasalo Markku , Peltonen‐Sainio Pirjo
Published: July 2021

Farming communities are becoming more heterogeneous and multifunctional due to various structural and environmental changes. However, it is not known if farmers' values have also become more heterogeneous. We wanted to explore potential heterogeneity in farmers' value priorities in detail across different farmer groups in Finland using the refined Schwartz theory of 19 basic human values. A representative sample of 4,401 Finnish farmers responded to a survey in 2018. The data were analysed with multidimensional scaling, confirmatory factor analysis and one‐way analysis of variance. The results show that farmers' values were heterogeneous, and differences were associated with socio‐demographic characteristics. Our findings confirmed the motivational continuum structure of values, with the exception of societal‐value. Security‐societal was the most important value for the Finnish farmers. The theory of 19 values proved useful in uncovering value priorities in detail. The security‐societal value is more a part of national identity rather than a personal motivational value in the Finnish farming community. The heterogeneity of farmers' values should be considered in more targeted policy planning.
Purchasing social attention by tipping: Materialism predicts online tipping in live‐streaming platform through self‐enhancement motive
Authors: Wu Yang , Niu Gengfeng , Chen Zhenzhen , Zhang Dongjing
Published: July 2021

Online tipping, or virtual gift‐giving, on live‐streaming platforms is an increasingly common consumer behavior in cyberspace. Perplexingly, when live‐stream viewership itself is free, viewers voluntarily spend money to buy virtual gifts and send them to their preferred streamers. The present study aimed to examine the motivational mechanism underlying these voluntary tipping behaviors from the perspectives of materialism and self‐enhancement. By a representative online survey (N = 1224), we found that participants' materialist beliefs were positively associated with both the likelihood and the amount of online tipping, and the self‐enhancement motive could significantly mediate this association; furthermore, streamer endorsement could moderate the link between the self‐enhancement motive and tipping amount. These findings suggest that materialist beliefs and downstream self‐related motivations are among the main driving forces for online tipping. The present results extended previous research on materialism by testing its effects in a newly emerging online consumer behavior and providing direct evidence for the moderation role of the “symbolic‐ness” of materialist behaviors. Practical implications for live‐streaming platforms, educators and policymakers, such as introducing tipping amount caps, were also discussed.