bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Genetic Variation and Character Association among Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Sweet Corn (Zea mays L. saccharata) Inbred Lines
Authors: Shankar Ramishetty Shiva , Priya P. Bindu , Bhadru D. , Vanisri S.
Published: August 2023

In this study, forty-six sweet corn inbred lines were evaluated to assess the variability and association among 11 yield and yield attributing traits at College Farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, PJTSAU. The traits plant height, ear height, cob length, cob girth, number of rows per ear, number of kernels per row, cob weight with husk and cob weight without husk have shown moderate to high range of PCV, GCV, heritability and genetic advance over mean displaying the importance of these traits in selecting superior sweet corn inbreds. Critical analysis of results obtained from correlation and path analysis revealed that the traits cob length, cob girth, number of kernel rows per ear and cob weight without husk posses high positive significant associations and positive direct effects. From this study it was concluded that cob length, cob girth, number of kernel rows per ear and cob weight without husk are the key traits to be given prime importance during selection for further improvement of production as they exhibited significant positive direct effects with cob weight with husk.
Characterization and Classification of Soils in a Toposequence of the Semi-arid Basaltic Landscape of Western India
Authors: Surwase S. A. , Singh S. K. , Reddy G. P. Obi , Kadu P. R. , Mohekar D. S. , Naitam R. K. , Konde N. M. , Aage A. B. , Deshmukh P. S.
Published: August 2023

The pedological investigations were carried out on a soil toposequence of the semi-arid region on the basaltic landscape of western India and landform-soil relationship was established.  In the study, seven soil profiles, representative of the summit, escarpment, lower pediment, undulating lands, plains and valley in a toposequence were studied. The study indicated that the soil development and its properties were following the toposequence. The profile development was least at the summit and best in the plains of the toposequence. The horizon sequences observed from the summit through plains of the toposequence are A-R, Ap-Bw-Cr, Ap-Bw1-Bw2-Bw3-Bw4-Crk, Ap-Bw1-Bw2-Bss1-Bss2-Bss3, Ap-Bw-Bss1-Bss2-Bss3-Bc and Ap-Bw1-Bw2-Bw3-Bw4. The soil colour is brown to very dark greyish brown down the toposequence. The solum depth varied from extremely shallow to very deep. An increasing trend was observed in clay content, cation exchange capacity, soil reaction, electrical conductivity, base saturation and exchangeable cations from summit to plains. The soils of summit, pediments and plains were classified as Entisols, Inceptisols and Vertisols, respectively.
Forest Biodiversity and Livelihood of Tribal People in North Western Himalaya with Special Reference to Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Kumar Suresh , Gupta Deepti
Published: August 2023

Forests are the treasures gifted to mankind since time immemorial. In Vedic era, the indigenous communities had a huge repository of knowledge pertaining to the utilization of plants and they relied on this vital comprehension for the welfare of society. This authentic knowledge of plants is vanishing among the people over the period of time due to growth and development in various human civilizations. Presently, the people living in close contact with nature aloof from the latest technologies, facilities and gadgets could practically experience the connect with the flora and fauna of the region. The tribal communities have been a part of forests for centuries, together possessing immense knowledge about the biodiversity of an area. They not only know the usage and importance of each item of forest produce including trees, herbs and shrubs but also are aware of the side effects of excess usage of a medicinal plant. Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) are important component of subsistence and livelihood of tribal communities living in and near forests. This is of particular significance in the state of Himachal Pradesh having 27.73% of geographical area under forest cover and predominantly inhabited by tribal people. The tribes of Himachal Pradesh generally have their abode in the upper and middle level of the hills. Forest products particularly the NTFPs can provide a sustainable economic boost to millions of people, especially, tribals living in and around forests of North Western Himalayan ranges, by using existing forest resources. Hence, the present study highlights the dependence of rural and tribal communities on forests and forest products in North Western Himalayan region.
Divalproex Sodium-Induced Hyponatremia: A Case Report with Positive Rechallenge
Authors: Olatunde Hafiz , Anombem Odiaka Mark , Basiru Tajudeen , Busari Adeniyi Kayode , Anugwom Gibson , Ochije Sochima , Aikoye Salisu
Published: August 2023

This report describes the case of a 56-year-old African American male who experienced severe hyponatremia after receiving Divalproex sodium therapy for bipolar I disorder on various occasions. Divalproex re-initiation caused a recurrence of hyponatremia, leading to discontinuation of the drug and initiation of Lithium. Although most cases of hyponatremia are asymptomatic, a sudden drop in sodium levels can be fatal. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the risk of hyponatremia in individuals undergoing bipolar I disorder therapy with Divalproex. This case highlights the need to monitor sodium levels in patients taking valproic acid.
Trends in Cumulative Disenrollment in the Medicare Advantage Program, 2011-2020
Authors: Meyers David J. , Ryan Andrew M. , Trivedi Amal N.
Published: August 2023

Importance

The Medicare Advantage (MA) program is rapidly growing. While previous work has found that beneficiaries with substantial health needs disenroll from plans at higher rates, the long-term frequency of disenrollment is not well understood.

Objective

To compare cumulative disenrollment trends in the MA program by beneficiary and plan characteristics.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective, serial cross-sectional study included beneficiaries with any MA enrollment from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2020. Data analysis took place from September 2022 to March 2023.

Exposures

Beneficiary characteristics, including race and ethnicity, length of Medicare enrollment, dual eligibility, and comorbidity burden, and contract characteristics, including vertical integration status, premium, and MA star rating.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was disenrollment from an MA contract within 5 years. Rates of cumulative disenrollment by beneficiary and contract characteristics were compared. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the correlation between a contract’s 1-year disenrollment and the contract’s disenrollment over a longer period.

Results

The sample included 82 377 917 beneficiaries (524 442 225 beneficiary-year observations; 56.7% female; mean [SD] age, 71.9 [10.3] years). After 1 year, 13.2% of nondually enrolled and 15.9% of dually enrolled beneficiaries had left their contract, increasing to 48.3% and 53.4%, respectively, after 5 years. Black enrollees disenrolled at the highest rates among race and ethnicity categories, with 14.8% disenrolling after 1 year and 52.6% disenrolling after 5 years. Contracts had a median disenrollment rate of 9.8% (IQR, 4.5%-19.0%) after 1 year and 56.1% (IQR, 23.1%-79.0%) after 5 years. Contracts rated 5 stars had substantially lower 5-year disenrollment rates (23.0% after 5 years compared with 41.2% for 4- to 4.5-star contracts and 67.2% for 3- to 3.5-star contracts). Disenrollment from a contract after 1 year was not well correlated with disenrollment after 5 years (r, 0.46).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cross-sectional study found substantial cumulative rates of disenrollment from MA plans within 5 years between 2011 and 2020, with wide variation in 5-year disenrollment by contract. The findings suggest that evaluating long-term disenrollment rates in MA performance measures may capture different outcomes than single-year disenrollment alone.
Changes in Patient Experiences of Hospital Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Elliott Marc N. , Beckett Megan K. , Cohea Christopher W. , Lehrman William G. , Cleary Paul D. , Giordano Laura A. , Russ Chelsea , Goldstein Elizabeth H. , Fleisher Lee A.
Published: August 2023

Importance

It is important to assess how the COVID-19 pandemic was adversely associated with patients’ care experiences.

Objective

To describe differences in 2020 to 2021 patient experiences from what would have been expected from prepandemic (2018-2019) trends and assess correlates of changes across hospitals.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study compared 2020 to 2021 data with 2018 to 2019 data from 3 900 887 HCAHPS respondents discharged from 3381 HCAHPS-participating US hospitals. The data were analyzed from 2022 to 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was an HCAHPS summary score (HCAHPS-SS), which averaged 10 HCAHPS measures. The primary analysis estimated whether HCAHPS scores from patients discharged from 2020 to 2021 differed from scores that would be expected based on quarterly and linear trends from 2018 to 2019 discharges. Secondary analyses stratified hospitals by prepandemic overall star ratings and staffing levels.

Results

Of the 3 900 887 HCAHPS 2020 to 2021 respondents, 59% were age 65 years or older, and 35% (11%) were in the surgical (maternity) service lines. Compared with trends expected based on prepandemic (2018-2019) data, HCAHPS-SS was 1.2 percentage points (pp) lower for quarter (Q) 2/2020 discharges and −1.9 to −2.0 pp for Q3/2020 to Q1/2021, which then declined to −3.6 pp by Q4/2021. The most affected measures (Q4/2021) were staff responsiveness (−5.6 pp) and cleanliness (−4.9 pp); the least affected were discharge information (−1.6 pp) and quietness (−1.8 pp). Overall rating and hospital recommendation measures initially exhibited smaller-than-average decreases, but then fell as much as the more specific experience measures by Q2/2021. Quietness did not decline until Q2/2021. The HCAHPS-SS fell most for hospitals with the lowest prepandemic staffing levels; hospitals with bottom-quartile staffing showed the largest decrements, whereas top-quartile hospitals showed smaller decrements in most quarters. Hospitals with better overall prepandemic quality showed consistently smaller HCAHPS-SS drops, with effects for 5-star hospitals about 25% smaller than for 1-star and 2-star hospitals.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this cohort study of HCAHPS-participating hospitals found that patient experience scores declined during 2020 to 2021. By Q4/2021, the HCAHPS-SS was 3.6 pp lower than would have been expected, a medium effect size. The most affected measures (staff responsiveness and cleanliness) showed large effect sizes, possibly reflecting high illness-associated hospital workforce absenteeism. Hospitals that were lower performing and less staffed prepandemic may have been less resilient to reduced staff availability and other pandemic-associated challenges. However, by Q4/2021, even prepandemic high-performing hospitals had similar declines.
Infrastructure tools to support an effective Radiation Oncology Learning Health System
Authors: Kapoor Rishabh , Sleeman William C , Ghosh Preetam , Palta Jatinder
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Radiation Oncology Learning Health System (RO‐LHS) is a promising approach to improve the quality of care by integrating clinical, dosimetry, treatment delivery, research data in real‐time. This paper describes a novel set of tools to support the development of a RO‐LHS and the current challenges they can address.

Methods

We present a knowledge graph‐based approach to map radiotherapy data from clinical databases to an ontology‐based data repository using FAIR concepts. This strategy ensures that the data are easily discoverable, accessible, and can be used by other clinical decision support systems. It allows for visualization, presentation, and data analyses of valuable information to identify trends and patterns in patient outcomes. We designed a search engine that utilizes ontology‐based keyword searching, synonym‐based term matching that leverages the hierarchical nature of ontologies to retrieve patient records based on parent and children classes, connects to the Bioportal database for relevant clinical attributes retrieval. To identify similar patients, a method involving text corpus creation and vector embedding models (Word2Vec, Doc2Vec, GloVe, and FastText) are employed, using cosine similarity and distance metrics.

Results

The data pipeline and tool were tested with 1660 patient clinical and dosimetry records resulting in 504 180 RDF (Resource Description Framework) tuples and visualized data relationships using graph‐based representations. Patient similarity analysis using embedding models showed that the Word2Vec model had the highest mean cosine similarity, while the GloVe model exhibited more compact embeddings with lower Euclidean and Manhattan distances.

Conclusions

The framework and tools described support the development of a RO‐LHS. By integrating diverse data sources and facilitating data discovery and analysis, they contribute to continuous learning and improvement in patient care. The tools enhance the quality of care by enabling the identification of cohorts, clinical decision support, and the development of clinical studies and machine learning programs in radiation oncology.
A head and neck treatment planning strategy for a CBCT‐guided ring‐gantry online adaptive radiotherapy system
Authors: Nasser Nour , Yang George Q. , Koo Jihye , Bowers Mark , Greco Kevin , Feygelman Vladimir , Moros Eduardo G. , Caudell Jimmy J. , Redler Gage
Published: August 2023

Purpose

A planning strategy was developed and the utility of online‐adaptation with the Ethos CBCT‐guided ring‐gantry adaptive radiotherapy (ART) system was evaluated using retrospective data from Head‐and‐neck (H&N) patients that required clinical offline adaptation during treatment.

Methods

Clinical data were used to re‐plan 20 H&N patients (10 sequential boost (SEQ) with separate base and boost plans plus 10 simultaneous integrated boost (SIB)). An optimal approach, robust to online adaptation, for Ethos‐initial plans using clinical goal prioritization was developed. Anatomically‐derived isodose‐shaping helper structures, air‐density override, goals for controlling hotspot location(s), and plan normalization were investigated. Online adaptation was simulated using clinical offline adaptive simulation‐CTs to represent an on‐treatment CBCT. Dosimetric comparisons were based on institutional guidelines for Clinical‐initial versus Ethos‐initial plans and Ethos‐scheduled versus Ethos‐adapted plans. Timing for five components of the online adaptive workflow was analyzed.

Results

The Ethos H&N planning approach generated Ethos‐initial SEQ plans with clinically comparable PTV coverage (average PTVHigh V100% = 98.3%, Dmin,0.03cc = 97.9% and D0.03cc = 105.5%) and OAR sparing. However, Ethos‐initial SIB plans were clinically inferior (average PTVHigh V100% = 96.4%, Dmin,0.03cc = 93.7%, D0.03cc = 110.6%). Fixed‐field IMRT was superior to VMAT for 93.3% of plans. Online adaptation succeeded in achieving conformal coverage to the new anatomy in both SEQ and SIB plans that was even superior to that achieved in the initial plans (which was due to the changes in anatomy that simplified the optimization). The average adaptive workflow duration for SIB, SEQ base and SEQ boost was 30:14, 22.56, and 14:03 (min: sec), respectively.

Conclusions

With an optimal planning approach, Ethos efficiently auto‐generated dosimetrically comparable and clinically acceptable initial SEQ plans for H&N patients. Initial SIB plans were inferior and clinically unacceptable, but adapted SIB plans became clinically acceptable. Online adapted plans optimized dose to new anatomy and maintained target coverage/homogeneity with improved OAR sparing in a time‐efficient manner.
Dosimetry and acute radiation enteritis comparison between prone and supine position in IMRT for gynecological cancers
Authors: Yan Huamei , Wu Manya , Wang Wan , Wang Donghui , Huang Xiaoqing , Dong Jie , Chen Luxi , Li Zhenghuan , Xu Xiangying
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To probe the differences of dosimetry and acute radiation enteritis between prone and supine position in gynecological cancer patients treated with intensity‐modulate radiotherapy (IMRT).

Methods

Gynecologic tumor patients who received IMRT from January 2020 to July 2021 were analyzed. 60 patients were enrolled and divided into the supine or prone position group according to different radiotherapy positions, including 34 patients in prone position and 26 patients in supine position. The dose‐volume histogram of organs at risk (OARs) and the incidence of acute radiation enteritis were compared between the two groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to show the clinical characteristics and dose volume metrics to the association of acute radiation enteritis.

Results

The percentage of volume receiving 5 Gy, 10 Gy, 15 Gy, 20 Gy, 30 Gy, 40 Gy, and 45 Gy doses for the small intestine were 79.0%, 67.4%, 59.6%, 44.3%, 17.0%, 8.9%, and 6.0%, respectively in the prone group, which were lower than those in the supine group (P < 0.05). The mean radiation dose (Dmean) of the small intestine exposure in prone group was decreased (P < 0.001). Compared with the supine group, the prone group who suffered from acute radiation enteritis were much less. The probability of indigestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in the prone position were 35.29%, 29.41%, 17.65%, 38.24%, and 5.88%, respectively. The differences in indigestion, nausea, and diarrhea between the two groups were statistically significant (P = 0.012, P = 0.029, and P = 0.041). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was shown that prone position was found to be protective against indigestion (P = 0.002), nausea (P = 0.013), vomiting (P = 0.035), and abdominal pain (P = 0.021).

Conclusion

Prone position in IMRT for gynecological cancers could significantly reduce radiation dose to the small bowel and colon, which would decrease the occurrence and severity of acute intestinal side effects possibly.
Historical Progress in Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Effectiveness of Conventional Mg Alloys Leading to Mg‐Li‐Based Alloys: A Review
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad Nadeem , Guo Zhengyou , Wu Ruizhi , Jhiao Wang , Xiao Chun Ma , Gorar Athar Ali Khan
Published: August 2023

Magnesium alloy (Mg alloy) materials have attracted considerable attention recently due to their potential applications in electronics, communication, computers, aerospace, and defense regarding electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, where high performance and reliability are required, and the unwanted electromagnetic fields are prevented from interfering with the regular operation of electronic devices and systems. Material's EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) depends on several factors: conductivity, magnetic permeability, reflectivity, absorption, and multiple scattering. Mg alloys also have high conductivity, magnetic permeability, high stiffness, high specific strength, and high damping properties. This makes them a better SE material than other shielding materials, such as Al alloys, for practical purposes. Various methods, such as alloying, heat treatment, deformation, surface treatment, and composite fabrication, can be used to modify Mg alloys to improve their SE and other properties. This review summarizes the recent progress and challenges in developing Mg alloy materials for EMI shielding applications. The effects of different factors on Mg alloys' SE, such as composition, microstructure, frequency, and thickness, are discussed. Also, the importance of Mg‐Li alloys and why they are better electromagnetic shielding materials than conventional Mg alloys is discussed. Finally, some perspectives and suggestions for future research directions are provided.
Synergistic Effect of Sodium Cyanoborohydride in Pb‐Sn Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Song Jing , Kong Tengfei , Zhang Yang , Liu Xufu , Saliba Michael , Bi Dongqin
Published: August 2023

Pb‐Sn mixed perovskite has received extensive attention because of its high research value in environmental protection and theoretical prospects. However, the film defects brought on by the quick crystallization of Pb‐Sn mixed perovskites and the facile oxidation of Sn2+ to Sn4+ are detrimental to the performance of Pb‐Sn perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Here, aiming at the interface of Pb‐Sn PSCs, which has been less studied, a reducing agent is first introduced on the top of Pb‐Sn mixed perovskite interface. The results show that in NaBH3CN(SC), B─H can suppress the oxidation of Sn2+ and C≡N can enhance the perovskite crystallinity and passivate the surface defects. Benefitting from this synergistic effect, a champion power conversion efficiency of 21.3% is obtained for Pb‐Sn PSCs. In addition, the encapsulated device can maintain good stability under maximum power point tracking conditions.
Key Role of Local Chemistry in Lattice Nitrogen‐Participated N2‐to‐NH3 Electrocatalytic Cycle over Nitrides
Authors: Zhang Mingcheng , Ai Xuan , Liang Xiao , Chen Hui , Zou Xiaoxin
Published: August 2023

Metal nitrides offer great opportunities for improving activity and selectivity of electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (ENRR) via the lattice nitrogen‐participated mechanism. Understanding the role of local chemistry of lattice nitrogen is important for establishing rational design principles of nitride catalysts. Herein, high‐throughput theoretical calculations are employed to investigate lattice nitrogen‐participated ENRR over a family of antiperovskite nitrides (M′M3N, M and M′ are different metal atoms) with highly tunable surrounding environments of N atoms. The M′M3N structure comprises isolated N atoms in the center, M atoms in the first coordination shells, and M′ atoms in the second coordination shells. An appropriate M‐N bond strength is found to be crucial for designing ideal nitride catalysts. Specifically, weak M‐N bonding facilitates the participation of lattice nitrogen and better activity, but too weak M‐N bonding results in structural instability of antiperovskite. The type of M element governs M‐N bond strength through adjusting hybridization interactions between M orbital and N orbital, and the M′ element can further finely regulate M‐N bond strength via M‐M′ polarization effects. Finally, AgBa3N, AlBa3N, GaBa3N catalysts are screened to possess greater ENRR activity than the benchmarking Ru (0001) catalysts and high selectivity toward hydrogen evolution reaction.
From “100%” Utilization of MAX/MXene to Direct Engineering of Wearable, Multifunctional E‐Textiles in Extreme Environments
Authors: Li Bin , Wu Na , Wu Qilei , Yang Yunfei , Pan Fei , Liu Wei , Liu Jiurong , Zeng Zhihui
Published: August 2023

Transition metal carbides/nitrides (MXenes) show great potential for preparing wearable, flexible multifunctional e‐textiles due to the exceptional electrical and mechanical properties and easy processing in aqueous medium. At present, MXene‐based e‐textiles face challenges including high production costs, low utilization of precursor titanium aluminum carbide (MAX), poor durability in extreme environments, and the inability to achieve a balance between large‐scale fabrication and high performance. Here, this work proposes a “100%” utilization of MAX/MXene strategy to produce additive‐free conductive inks with controllable viscosity, subsequently enabling an accessible, scalable direct‐blade‐coating followed by chemical cross‐linking approach for creating wearable, high‐performance, multifunctional MXene‐based e‐textiles that perform in extreme conditions. The structural design provides integrated multifunctionality involving controllable and exceptional electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding within an ultrabroadband frequency range, visual electrothermal conversion, electrothermal deicing, remarkable visual photothermal, and antibacterial performance. This work employs a fabrication process that is simple, cost‐effective, and scalable, presenting a novel “100% efficiency” and “waste‐to‐wealth” strategy to manufacture robust, durable, multifunctional e‐textiles. This approach provides exciting potential for the next generation of wearable electronics, EMI compatibility, visual heating, thermotherapy, antibacterial treatments, deicing, defense, and aerospace applications.
Harnessing Transition Metal Scaffolds for Targeted Antibacterial Therapy
Authors: Weng Cheng , Tan Yong Leng Kelvin , Koh Wayne Gareth , Ang Wee Han
Published: August 2023

Antimicrobial resistance, caused by persistent adaptation and growing resistance of pathogenic bacteria to overprescribed antibiotics, poses one of the most serious and urgent threats to global public health. The limited pipeline of experimental antibiotics in development further exacerbates this looming crisis and new drugs with alternative modes of action are needed to tackle evolving pathogenic adaptation. Transition metal complexes can replenish this diminishing stockpile of drug candidates by providing compounds with unique properties that are not easily accessible using pure organic scaffolds. We spotlight four emerging strategies to harness these unique properties to develop new targeted antibacterial agents.
The Lived Experience of Ambulatory and Perioperative RNs Displaced During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Withall Jennifer , Lavin Patricia M. , Rich Ellen
Published: August 2023

During the patient surge associated with the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the spring of 2020, perioperative and ambulatory RNs at an acute‐care specialty orthopedic hospital were redeployed to medical‐surgical inpatient nursing units to care for patients with the disease. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to describe perioperative and ambulatory RNs’ experiences during the redeployment. We used purposeful sampling to obtain representatives who worked routinely in perioperative (including postanesthesia care) and ambulatory settings before redeployment. Data saturation was reached after eight in‐depth interviews that yielded rich descriptions of the nurses’ experiences. Most participants indicated that the fundamental structure of the experience involved being “thrown into a war without weapons” and needing to find ways to fight. The results of this study provide a unique contribution to nursing literature and may assist nurses and leaders in the future.
Teratology research in the shadow of theDobbsdecision
Authors: Lyerly Anne Drapkin
Published: August 2023

Following the 2022 US Supreme Court decision inDobbsvs.Jackson Women's Health Organization, numerous states have passed laws banning or severely restricting abortion. The consequences of the decision stretch beyond abortion contexts, including progress on developing a more robust evidence base for care in pregnancy. In this Robert L. Brent lecture, I explore the impact of theDobbsdecision on teratology research, arguing that it is of importance even and perhaps especially for those concerned about the moral complexities of ending a pregnancy. For as abortion restrictions threaten teratology research, they also threaten its life‐affirming aims. First, I show how teratology research and abortion are intertwined, highlighting the stories of Sherri Finkbine and Frances Kelsey, two courageous women whose lives intersected with both. Second, I describe how restrictions on abortion make teratology research more difficult and ethically complex, highlighting additional risks to research participants and staff, as well as new challenges to scientific validity and feasibility. And third, foregrounding yet another story of courage (and heartbreak), I highlight how abortion restrictions make teratology research more important than ever. Honoring Dr. Brent's legacy requires addressing—rather than avoiding—the ethical challenges of pregnancy‐related research, especially now in the post‐Dobbsera.
Large‐scale evaluation of staff training in programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Kamana Bertilde U. , Dozier Claudia L. , Kanaman Nicole A. , DiGennaro Reed Florence , Glaze Stephanie M. , Markowitz Ali M. , Hangen Marcella M. , Harrison Kelley L. , Bernstein Alec M. , Jess Rachel L. , Erath Tyler G.
Published: August 2023

Behavioral skills training and on‐the‐job feedback are effective in changing staff behavior as evidenced by years of staff‐training research. However, community programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often do not utilize these best‐practice training methods. The purpose of the current study was to train four empirically derived practices to staff who work with adults with IDD. We trained the staff to provide positive interactions, provide effective instructions, provide correct responses to problem behavior, and promote consumer engagement with items and activities. We used behavioral skills training and on‐the‐job feedback to increase staff implementation of these practices on a large scale in a community‐based organization despite some barriers such as high staff turnover rates. Overall, results showed that our training procedure was effective in increasing staff implementation of the four practices in many homes and programs.
Exploring the effect of artificial intelligence intellect on consumer decision delegation: The role of trust, task objectivity, and anthropomorphism
Authors: Song Jinzhu , Lin Hengyu
Published: August 2023

This study examines the impact of AI intelligence levels on consumer decision delegation through three experimental studies. Study 1 manipulates AI intelligence levels (low vs. high) to establish the main effect. Study 2 explores the mediating role of trust and the moderating effect of task types (subjective vs. objective) on the relationship between AI intelligence and trust. Study 3 investigates the role of AI anthropomorphism in AI delegation. The findings reveal that increasing AI intelligence enhances consumer decision delegation for both subjective and objective consumption tasks, with trust serving as a mediating factor. However, objective tasks are more likely to be delegated to AI. Moreover, anthropomorphic appearance positively influences trust but does not moderate the relationship between intelligence and trust. This research expands the literature on AI decision delegation, shedding light on the psychological processes related to AI‐powered product design, consumer perceptions, and consumption situations, while also offering practical implications.
Phenolics from Chilean Bee Bread Exhibit Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties: The First Prospective Study
Authors: Jorquera Bairon , Mayorga Ailin , Quintero‐Pertuz Helena , Mejía Jessica , Núñez Gabriel , Núñez Pizarro Paula , Arias‐Santé María Fernanda , Montenegro Gloria , Costa de Camargo Adriano , Bridi Raquel
Published: August 2023

Bee bread (BB) is a beehive product generated upon fermentation of pollen combined with flower nectar and glandular secretions. The potential application of BB is related to its nutritional and functional components, including phenolic compounds. This is the first prospective study on palynological parameters, phenolics, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity of Chilean bee bread in vitro. The tested material exhibited high levels of phenolics (1340±186 mg GAE/100 g BB) and showed antioxidant capacity as determined by the FRAP (51±2 μmol Trolox equivalent/g BB) and ORAC‐FL (643±64 μmol Trolox equivalent/g BB) and antibacterial activity against Streptococcus pyogenes. Furthermore, the phenolic acids and flavonoids was determined using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry, and the concentration was determined using liquid chromatography with diode array detection. Kaempferol, quercetin, ferulic acid, and rutin were the main phenolics found. This study demonstrates the bioactive potential of Chilean BB and supports the evidence that this bee product is a promising source of antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds.
Melamine Modification of the Carrier Regulating the Performance of PtBi/AC in Heptanol Oxidation
Authors: Ma Xinzheng , Guo Luyao , Zhao Ziang , Meng Yu , Mou Xiaoling , Lin Ronghe , Li Yihui , Yan Li , Zhu Hejun , Ding Yunjie
Published: August 2023

Different bimetallic platinum and bismuth catalysts supported on melamine‐modified activated carbon (AC) are designed by a co‐impregnation method. Through controlling the activation temperatures of the melamine−AC mixture, a series of N‐doped and C3N4‐modified AC (N−AC and C3N4−AC) are prepared. Combined powder X‐ray diffractions, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopic, and high‐angle annual dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopic studies demonstrate that the introduction of C3N4 favors the formation of PtBi alloy and leads to increased particle sizes in comparison to the pristine and N‐doped AC‐supported bimetallics. The catalytic performance of the developed catalysts is evaluated in the oxidation of n‐heptanol oxidation in a batch mode using O2 as the oxidant. PtBi/C3N4−AC exhibits significantly boosted activity as well as selectivity to heptanoic acid as compared with the other catalysts. A high yield of heptanoic acid of 69 % can be achieved under the optimized reaction conditions. Furthermore, our work points to the PtBi alloy as the most active sites for the alcohol oxidation. Catalyst deactivation occurs in the cycling tests, mainly due to the collapse of the alloy phase and likely the decrease in particle sizes.
Nitrogen‐Doped Graphene Quantum Dots as Electrochemiluminescence‐Emitting Species for Sensitive Detection of KRAS G12C Mutation via PET‐RAFT**
Authors: Ma Lele , Kang Le , Sun Yuzhi , Liu Jingwen , Yang Huaixia , Miao Mingsan
Published: August 2023

The levels of KRAS G12C point mutation is recognized to be closely related to the earlier diagnosis of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, based on nitrogen‐doped graphene quantum dots (NGQDs) and photo‐induced electron/energy transfer reversible addition‐fragment chain transfer (PET‐RAFT) signal amplification strategy, we fabricated a novel electrochemiluminescence (ECL) biosensor for the detection of KRAS G12C mutation for the first time. NGQDs as ECL‐emitting species with cathodic ECL were prepared by a simple calcination method. Firstly, KRAS G12C mutation DNA, i. e., target DNA (tDNA), was captured by specific identification with hairpin DNA (hDNA). Then, PET‐RAFT was initiated by blue light, and large numbers of monomers were successfully polymerized to form controllable polymer chains. Lastly, massive NGQDs was introduced via amidation reaction with N‐(3‐aminopropyl)methacrylamide hydrochloride (APMA), which significantly amplified the ECL signal intensity. Under optimal conditions, this biosensor achieved a good linear relationship between ECL intensity and logarithm of the levels of KRAS G12C mutation in the range from 10 fM to 10 nM. Moreover, this strategy exhibited high selectivity and excellent applicability for KRAS G12C mutation detection in the serum samples. Therefore, this biosensor has great potential in clinical diagnosis and practical application.
π‐Extended Hexapyrrolylbenzenes: Exploring Charge‐Transfer Phenomena in Donor‐Acceptor Propellers
Authors: Matuszczyk Daniel , Lee Yu Jin , Kang Seongsoo , Chmielewski Piotr J. , Cybińska Joanna , Kim Dongho , Stępień Marcin
Published: August 2023

A family of propeller‐shaped donor‐acceptor hexapyrrolylbenzenes (HPBs) were designed and synthesized by sequential nucleophilic substitution of hexafluorobenzene with π‐extended pyrroles. In particular, four hybrids were obtained, containing various combinations of electron‐rich and electron‐poor acenaphthylene‐fused pyrroles. Additionally, to probe the efficiency of ortho transfer interactions, a system was designed containing unique donor and acceptor subunits spatially separated with four unfunctionalized pyrroles. DFT calculations showed propeller‐shaped geometries of all HPB molecules and separation of frontier molecular orbitals between donor and acceptor subunits. Steady‐state and time‐resolved photophysical measurements revealed charge‐transfer (CT) character of the emission with strong positive dependence on solvent polarity. The principal CT pathway involves ortho‐positioned pairs of donors and acceptors and requires bending of the acceptor in the excited state.
Comparative Pharmacokinetic Profiles of a Novel Low‐Dose Micronized Formulation of Raloxifene 45 mg (AD‐101) and the Conventional Raloxifene 60 mg in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Lee Hae Won , Kang Woo Youl , Gwon Mi‐Ri , Park Soo‐Jin , Cho Kyunghee , Seong Sook Jin , Yoon Young‐Ran
Published: August 2023

Raloxifene hydrochloride shows poor bioavailability (only 2%) when orally administered because of its poor aqueous solubility and its extensive first‐pass metabolism. A new micronized formulation of raloxifene was developed to improve bioavailability via enhanced gastrointestinal absorption. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic characteristics of a new micronized raloxifene formulation (AD‐101) in comparison with the conventional raloxifene formulation. This study was designed as an open‐label, randomized, 2‐treatment‐period, crossover study with a 2‐week washout period. Two treatments consisted of micronized raloxifene 45 mg daily; and conventional raloxifene 60 mg daily administered in fasting conditions. Plasma raloxifene concentrations were determined by a validated method using ultra‐fast liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, and pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using a noncompartmental model. In total, 49 subjects completed the study. The geometric mean ratio (micronized/conventional) of the maximum concentration and the area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time zero to the last concentration values were 1.08 (90% CI, 0.95‐1.24) and 0.97 (90% CI, 0.89‐1.05), respectively. The adverse event profile did not differ between the 2 formulations. The results demonstrate that micronized formulation of raloxifene 45 mg is equivalent to conventional formulation of raloxifene 60 mg when administered at the single dose in the fasted state. After single oral dosing of AD‐101, there were no serious or unexpected adverse events.
Tightly Connected Poly(3‐Thiophene Boronic Acid)/g‐C3N4 Heterojunctions for Enhanced Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Zhang Bing‐Miao , Li Yong , Pang Xu‐Long , Qu Yang , Li Zhi‐Jun , Zhao Qi , Zhang Yi , Zhu Yan , Zhang Peng‐Xue , Qin Chuan‐Li
Published: August 2023

Constructing efficient polymer semiconductor/g‐C3N4 heterojunctions is highly desirable for enhancing the photogenerated charge separation of g‐C3N4 and further improving the solar‐hydrogen production efficiency. Herein, we synthesized poly(3‐thiophene boronic acid)/g‐C3N4 (PTBA/CN) heterojunctions with tight interface contact by a simple wet‐chemical strategy. The resulting ratio‐optimized 3PTBA/CN heterojunction exhibits 8.7 times enhancement of the visible‐light photocatalytic hydrogen production compared to CN. Based on the steady‐state surface photovoltage spectra (SS‐SPS), photoluminescence spectra (PL), ⋅OH amount measurements, time‐resolved photoluminescence spectra (TR‐PL), and single‐wavelength photocurrent action spectra, it is confirmed that the enhanced photocatalytic performance is mainly attributed to the promoted photogenerated charge separation resulting from the transfer of high‐level electrons from CN to PTBA via the formed tight interface contact, depending on the hydrogen bonding interactions between the boronic acid groups [−B(OH)2] of PTBA and the amino groups (−NH2) of CN. Furthermore, the −B(OH)2 of PTBA facilitates the uniform dispersion of the co‐catalyst Pt. This work provides an effective strategy for constructing efficient tightly connected polymer semiconductor/CN heterojunction photocatalysis.
The joint effects of forest habitat area and fragmentation on dung beetles
Authors: Mbora David Nyaga Mugo , Mutua Morris Nzioka
Published: August 2023

Habitat loss and habitat fragmentation usually occur together, at the same time and place. However, while there is a consensus that habitat loss is the preeminent threat to biodiversity, the effects of fragmentation are contentious. Some argue that habitat fragmentation is not bad for biodiversity, and even that it is good. Generally, the studies that find no harm or positive outcomes of fragmentation invariably assume that it is independent of habitat loss. However, dissociating the effects of habitat fragmentation from habitat loss is questionable because the two are essentially coupled. Accordingly, we evaluated how forest area and fragmentation (via edge effects) influenced dung beetles per se, and through their effects on the abundance of mammals, using structural equation modeling (SEM). Dung beetles are very sensitive to forest habitat loss and fragmentation and to changes in the abundance of mammals on which they depend for dung. Our study area was in the Tana River, Kenya, where forest fragments are depauperated of mammals except for two endemic species of monkeys. We mapped 12 forests, counted the resident monkeys, and sampled 113,955 beetles from 288 plots. Most of the 87 species of beetles found were small tunnellers. After implementing a fully latent Structural Regression SEM, the optimal model explained a significant 26% of the variance in abundance, and 89% of diversity. The main drivers of beetle abundance were positive, direct, effects of forest area and number of monkeys, and negative edge effects. The main drivers of diversity were the direct effects of the beetle abundance, indirect effects of forest area and abundance of mammals, and indirect negative edge effects. Thus, forest area, fragmentation (via edge effects), and the number of monkeys jointly influenced the abundance and diversity of the beetles directly and indirectly.
Evaluating the physical habitat of riffle‐pool design in support of river habitat protection and rehabilitation
Authors: Wang Nan , Yang Ge , Bao Meixia , Kattel Giri , Li Pengcheng , Xi Yuqian , Yao Weiwei
Published: August 2023

Riffle‐pool constructions are common practice in river management and fish conservation, but insufficient science exists to guide objective design of riffle‐pool. Understanding the spatial design of a riffle‐pool in river systems has significant value because it can provide important information to ameliorate aquatic species decline. In this study, six types of riffle‐pool structures were designed to assess hydrodynamic and riverbed morphology effects on stream habitat status. A two‐dimensional ecohydraulic model was used to assess the roles of different riffle‐pool designs in river habitat conditions. The natural flow condition and three types of flood flow conditions were applied to the six types of riffle‐pool structures to evaluate the habitat quality and the sustainability of the riffle‐pool design in mountain rivers. The long‐term impacts of the hydrodynamic and hydromorphology conditions on river physical habitat status were also analysed. The results indicate substantial differences in habitat quality among six riffle‐pool structures. It was found that narrow riffle‐pool construction yielded the best performance for the fish habitat, which had the best habitat quality among six riffle‐pool designs with the smallest pool area. In the same riffle‐pool structure, the habitat suitability in the riffle‐pool sequence will primarily increase more rapidly and then decrease gradually along with the discharge increase. Under the flood discharge scenarios, low flood discharge could improve riffle‐pool habitat quality, while high flood discharge could fragment the riffle‐pool habitat quality further. The long‐term hydrodynamic conditions have the same effects on all six cases. Overall, low discharge and smaller pool design would be beneficial to the river system, which could help maintain habitat diversity of mountain rivers. This analysis could provide valuable information for river management and decision‐making, which could assist in designing better mountain river habitats to promote conservation and rehabilitation of endangered biota.
Three Component Synthesis of 4‐Aryl‐2‐aminothiazoles under Transition‐Metal Free Conditions
Authors: Cheng Xi , Qin Da‐Bin , Dong Zhi‐Bing
Published: August 2023

An efficient three‐component synthesis of 4‐aryl‐2‐aminothiazoles was reported. Phenyl‐thioureas reacted with 2‐bromoacetophenones to form 4‐aryl‐2‐aminothiazoles through cyclization, and the subsequent C−N bonding with benzyl/allyl bromides gave the desired disubstituted thiazoles smoothly. The protocol features transition‐metal free, short reaction time, easily available starting materials, good yields and broad substrate scope, showing potential synthetic value for the synthesis of a variety of biologically or pharmaceutically active compounds.
Practical Synthesis of Pharmaceutically Relevant Pyrroles from α,β‐Unsaturated Aldehydes and Phenacyl Azides
Authors: Borkotoky Lodsna , Maurya Ram Awatar
Published: August 2023

Structurally diverse pyrroles were synthesized by direct coupling of α, β‐unsaturated aldehydes and phenacyl azides. The scope of the synthetic method was successfully demonstrated by synthesizing 28 different phenyl(5‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrrol‐2‐yl)methanones in high yields (87–95 %). Derivatization of a few synthesized pyrroles was demonstrated which shows the potential application of the developed protocol in new functional materials. To get a mechanistic insight of the reaction, a typical reaction was performed in a deuterated solvent and the progress of the reaction was monitored by recording its 1H NMR at regular time intervals.
Electrophoretic characterization of LNP/AAV‐encapsulated nucleic acids: Strengths and weaknesses
Authors: Hutanu Andrei , Ferreiro Miriam López , van Haasteren Joost , Höcker Oliver , Montealegre Cristina , Mäser Marina , Keresztfalvi Alex , Monti Jose , Schwarz Maria Anna
Published: August 2023

The use of nucleic acids (NAs) has revolutionized medical approaches and ushered in a new era of combating various diseases. Accordingly, there is an increasing demand for accurate identification, localization, quantification, and characterization of NAs encapsulated in nonviral or viral vectors. The vast spectrum of molecular dimensions and intra‐ and intermolecular interactions presents a formidable obstacle for NA analytical development. Typically, the comprehensive analysis of encapsulated NAs, free NAs, and their spatial distribution poses a challenge that is seldom tackled in its complete complexity. The identification of appropriate physicochemical methodologies for large nonencapsulated or encapsulated NAs is particularly intricate and necessitates an evaluation of the analytical outcomes and their appropriateness in addressing critical quality attributes. In this work, we examine the analytics of non‐encapsulated or encapsulated large NAs (>500 nucleotides) utilizing capillary electrophoresis (CE) and liquid chromatography (LC) methodologies such as free zone CE, gel CE, affinity CE, and ion pair high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). These methodologies create a complete picture of the NA's critical quality attributes, including quantity, identity, purity, and content ratio.