bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KUALITAS LAYANAN BEBERAPA PERUSAHAAN ASURANSI DI SURABAYA
Authors: Sutedjo Francisca Cecilia , Widiawan Kriswanto
Published: November 2023

One of the service industries that grow faster than the others is insurance industry. Since there are a lot of companies that involved in this kind of industry, clients need to select a certain company that served the best service compared to the others. The objectives of this research are to determine the most important service dimension based on the customers' opinion, to measure customers' expected and perceived values of each service dimension, and to determine which company that provide the best services on each service dimension. This research used servqual method. The questionnaire was distributed to 260 clients of 10 well-known insurance industries in Surabaya. They were asked about five service dimensions, i.e.: tangible, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. The result shows that the most important service dimension is empathy. The highest expected values is reliability. The service dimension which provide the best service is tangible. Generally there are no companies that exceed the customers' expected values

Abstract in Bahasa Indonesia :

Salah satu industri jasa yang sangat pesat pertumbuhannya adalah jasa asuransi. Memilih penyedia jasa asuransi yang tepat wajib dilakukan sekalipun bukan hal yang mudah. Hal ini disebabkan kewajiban nasabah sudah harus ditempuh, sementara manfaat asuransi baru diperoleh beberapa bulan atau tahun kemudian. Nasabah perlu mengetahui perusahaan asuransi mana yang memberikan layanan baik. Sementara perusahaan asuransi juga perlu mengetahui dimensi layanan apa saja yang dianggap penting oleh nasabah, serta harapan dan kepuasan nasabah untuk masing-masing dimensi layanan. Penelitian dilakukan dengan metode service quality (servqual), terhadap 260 nasabah dari 10 perusahaan asuransi besar di Surabaya untuk lima dimensi layanan, yaitu tangible, reliability, responsiveness, assurance dan empathy. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan dimensi empathy yang tertinggi tingkat kepentingannya. Dimensi reliability menjadi dimensi dengan tingkat harapan terbesar. Dimensi dengan layanan terbaik adalah tangible. Secara keseluruhan masih terjadi gap antara harapan dan kepuasan responden.

Kata kunci: Kualitas layanan, metode servqual, analisis gap.
DEALING WITH KANO MODEL DYNAMICS: STRENGTHENING THE QUALITY FUNCTION DEPLOYMENT AS A DESIGN FOR SIX SIGMA TOOL
Authors: Raharjo Hendry
Published: November 2023

Six Sigma has been known to be a breakthrough business strategy to achieve customer satisfaction through defect reduction and cost optimization. A flawless product or service would, however, be of little value if it does not sell. Thus, it is of considerable importance to begin with the customer. Quality Function Deployment (QFD), as a customer-driven tool in Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) toolset, can be regarded as one of the most powerful tools to serve this purpose. The success of QFD use relies heavily on the accuracy of the primary input, that is, the Voice of the Customer (VOC). To better identify and obtain more accurate VOC, the use of Kano Model in QFD has been incorporated in the literature. Unfortunately, the dynamics of Kano Model, such as the fact that what now delights the customer will become an expected need in the future is often oversimplified and has not been adequately addressed. The aim of this paper is to shed some light to Kano Model dynamics modeling by providing a quantitative technique which is based on compositional data analysis. It is expected that a timely update of customer needs data may serve as a useful indicator to monitor the progress of how well a company satisfies its customer over time, and at the same time provide a ground for formulating the next strategies as to enable the company to respond differently and continuously over time of its operations. To give some practical insights, an illustrative example is provided.
PERANCANGAN DAN IMPLEMENTASI SISTEM PENGUKURAN KINERJA DENGAN METODE INTEGRATED PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT SYSTEMS (Studi Kasus: Jurusan Teknik Mesin Universitas Mataram)
Authors: Syairuddin Bambang , Suwignjo Patdono , Suartika I Made
Published: November 2023

To assure the quality of education in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, we need to design an integrated performance measurement system. For that purpose, we used the IPMS (Integrated Performance Measurement Systems) method. Using the IPMS method, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) of the Department of Mechanical Engineering were determined by pursuant to stakeholder requirement through four steps. Those are identifying the stakeholder requirement, external monitor, stipulating objectives, and identification of KPIs. Performance measurement system with the IPMS method in the Department of Mechanical Engineering of Mataram University can be identified into 38 KPIs grouped in 9 criterias of performance of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, that are curriculum, student, financial, human resources, administration academic, teaching and learning, alumnus, evaluation and operation, and external party.

Abstract in Bahasa Indonesia :

Untuk menjamin kualitas pendidikan di Jurusan Teknik Mesin, diperlukan sebuah rancangan sistem pengukuran kinerja (SPK) yang terintegrasi dengan metode IPMS (Integrated Performance Measurement Systems). Dengan metode IPMS, Key Performance Indicators (KPI) Jurusan Teknik Mesin ditentukan berdasarkan stakeholder requirement melalui empat tahapan yaitu; identifikasi stakeholder requirement, external monitor, penetapan objectives, dan identifikasi KPIs. Hasil perancangan SPK di Jurusan Teknik Mesin Universitas Mataram, dapat mengidentifikasi 38 KPIs yang dikelompokkan dalam 9 kriteria kinerja Jurusan Teknik Mesin, yaitu; kurikulum, mahasiswa, finansial, SDM, administrasi akademik, proses pembelajaran, alumni, evaluasi dan pengendalian, dan external party.

Kata Kunci : Sistem Pengukuran Kinerja, IPMS, Teknik Mesin Unram.
Hepatitis C in Black Individuals in the US
Authors: Falade-Nwulia Oluwaseun , Kelly Sharon M. , Amanor-Boadu Sasraku , Nnodum Benedicta Nneoma , Lim Joseph K. , Sulkowski Mark
Published: November 2023

Importance

In the US, the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) is 1.8% among people who are Black and 0.8% among people who are not Black. Mortality rates due to HCV are 5.01/100 000 among people who are Black and 2.98/100 000 among people who are White.

Observations

While people of all races and ethnicities experienced increased rates of incident HCV between 2015 and 2021, Black individuals experienced the largest percentage increase of 0.3 to 1.4/100 000 (367%) compared with 1.8 to 2.7/100 000 among American Indian/Alaska Native (50%), 0.3 to 0.9/100 000 among Hispanic (200%), and 0.9 to 1.6/100 000 among White (78%) populations. Among 47 687 persons diagnosed with HCV in 2019-2020, including 37 877 (79%) covered by Medicaid (7666 Black and 24 374 White individuals), 23.5% of Black people and 23.7% of White people with Medicaid insurance initiated HCV treatment. Strategies to increase HCV screening include electronic health record prompts for universal HCV screening, which increased screening tests from 2052/month to 4169/month in an outpatient setting. Awareness of HCV status can be increased through point-of-care testing in community-based settings, which was associated with increased likelihood of receiving HCV test results compared with referral for testing off-site (69% on-site vs 19% off-site, P < .001). Access to HCV care can be facilitated by patient navigation, in which an individual is assigned to work with a patient to help them access care and treatments; this was associated with greater likelihood of HCV care access (odds ratio, 3.7 [95% CI, 2.9-4.8]) and treatment initiation within 6 months (odds ratio, 3.2 [95% CI, 2.3-4.2]) in a public health system providing health care to individuals regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay compared with usual care. Eliminating Medicaid’s HCV treatment restrictions, including removal of a requirement for advanced fibrosis or a specialist prescriber, was associated with increased treatment rates from 2.4 persons per month to 72.3 persons per month in a retrospective study of 10 336 adults with HCV with no significant difference by race (526/1388 [37.8%] for Black vs 2706/8277 [32.6%] for White patients; adjusted odds ratio, 1.02 [95% CI, 0.8-1.3]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In the US, the prevalence of HCV is higher in people who are Black than in people who are not Black. Point-of-care HCV tests, patient navigation, electronic health record prompts, and unrestricted access to HCV treatment in community-based settings have potential to increase diagnosis and treatment of HCV and improve outcomes in people who are Black.
Sechie: The spatialization of activities via a repository and stage
Authors: Watanabe Taishi
Published: November 2023

The building, Sechie, is an architectural representation in which the activities of living become a “dwelling space” that clearly articulates what it is rather than a house as container. Also, Sechie delivers a modern adaptation of Japanese spatial principles by going back historically to their origins. The building traces the connection with previous research and architectural works referring to “Ai(Ma)” and ceremonial space. Its structure is based on the origins of space generated by a repository containing living functions and a stage without such functions. By connecting them three‐dimensionally, the garden creates an architectural state in which human actions and nature coexist.
No evidence of association between autism spectrum quotient and spontaneous mental time travel in a general adult sample performing an online vigilance task
Authors: Shevchenko Jennifer , Arnold Megan , Clayton McClure J. Helgi
Published: November 2023

Evidence supports the dissociation of voluntary and spontaneous routes to past and future thinking, collectively referred to as mental time travel (MTT). If the diminished voluntary MTT ability found in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is attributable to a deficit in constructive/generative processes not necessary for spontaneous MTT, ASD traits (Autism Spectrum Quotient score) in a general adult sample should not be related to total spontaneous thoughts, probability of past or future thoughts, or probability of specific thoughts during an undemanding vigilance task. Results supported this hypothesis: AQ was not associated with total spontaneous thoughts and did not significantly predict the other measures. This is the first study to explore spontaneous MTT in relation to ASD traits, further supporting the argument that voluntary MTT may be compromised in ASD due to reliance on constructive/generative processes and reinforcing the notion of dissociable cognitive routes to MTT.
Full event‐triggering adaptive control considering time‐varying constraints for nonholonomic tractor‐trailer system
Authors: Chen Yang , Liu Yan‐Jun , Cao Ying‐Li , Wang Ming‐Fei , Liu Lei
Published: November 2023

In this paper, for the nonholonomic tractor‐trailer system with slipping and skidding, a full state‐triggering implementation of a tracking controller is proposed. Trailers are an important part, and their knowledge is crucial for the safety and control of the vehicle. Without considering system performance constraints, trailers may deviate from their expected position, leading to collisions. Therefore, there is still great interest in addressing the constraint control issues that arise in modern technologies related to network communication. Based on the backstepping method, bounded measurement errors are introduced into the continuous sampling controller considering intra‐vehicle communications. Then two neural networks are used to model unknown dynamics of the system with event sampling inputs, thereby decoupling the design of the control inputs. Finally, we prove the input‐to‐state‐like stability of a continuously sampled controller, and the given event execution control law can ensure the boundedness of measurement errors. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Hexyl Gallate Loaded Microgels Enable Efficient Protection Against Citrus Canker
Authors: Braun Susanne , Dilarri Guilherme , de Lencastre Novaes Leticia C. , Huth Philipp , Töpel Alexander , Hussmann Larissa , Boes Alexander , da Rocha Miguel Divino , Jakob Felix , Regasini Luis Octavio , Schwaneberg Ulrich , Ferreira Henrique , Pich Andrij
Published: November 2023

The development of efficient and environmentally friendly plant protection systems is one of the major challenges for a sustainable agriculture of the future. Citrus canker caused by the pathogen Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri (X. citri) affects all cultivated citrus species worldwide and is responsible for enormous economic losses and restrictions in international trade. Currently used commercial copper‐based formulations are the origin of contamination for soil and groundwater, affecting local ecosystems and human health. A copper‐free sustainable microgel‐based plant protection system able to efficiently combat X. citri is developed. Microgels decorated with anchor peptides exhibit strong non‐covalent attachment to the surface of orange leaves and have the ability to release hexyl gallate, which inhibits the growth and spreading of pathogens. The tailored design of the microgel network allows high loadings of hexyl gallate (up to 40 wt.%) and a controlled release of gallates from microgels that provide long‐term protection. The antibacterial activity of the hexyl gallate‐loaded microgels is demonstrated by various in vitro assays as well as on orange plants in greenhouse settings. The experimental results suggest that the developed sustainable microgel‐based plant protection system for citrus trees allows efficient abatement of X. citri and reduces environmental pollution caused by copper formulations.
The Intersection of Computational Design and Wearable‐Optimized Electrospun Structural Nanohybrids for Electromagnetic Absorption
Authors: Salari Meysam , Taromsari Sara Mohseni , Habibpour Saeed , Shi HaoTian Harvey , Hamidinejad Mahdi , Yu Aiping , Naguib Hani E. , Park Chul B.
Published: November 2023

By leveraging the principles of electromagnetic theory and materials science, the characteristics of dielectric polymer composites can be optimized, eliminating repetitive trial‐and‐error in their application as electromagnetic absorbers (EMAs). Herein, a systematic framework for optimizing the thickness and composition of double‐layer EMAs is proposed, using a combination of transmission line, Debye relaxation, and Maxwell–Garnett theories. Following theoretical optimization, a double‐layered electrospun EMA is fabricated, which comprises a ≈1.17 mm thick matrix of styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) decorated with MXene on its fibrous structure. The second SBS layer, with a thickness of ≈0.52 mm, incorporates a hybrid of MXene and graphene nanoribbons (GNR) as conductive additives. The EMA exhibits durable electrical performance after 2000 tensile cycles, owing to the surface chemistry engineering and the novel in situ assembly technique. It is capable of shielding 99.9% of the incident wave and >80% absorptivity (A) over almost the entire Ku‐band. The EMA also exhibits desirable mechanical characteristics, such as >300% stretchability and full twist and wrinkle recoveries, making it an excellent choice for protective attire applications. Additionally, the introduced approach provides solutions for the advancement of tailorable polymer composite EMAs, with respect to specific criteria of the target wave frequency, effective absorption bandwidth, and absorption levels.
Reversing Resistance of Cancer Stem Cells and Enhancing Photodynamic Therapy Based on Hyaluronic Acid Nanomicelles for Preventing Cancer Recurrence and Metastasis
Authors: Wang Teng , Tao Jiaojiao , Wang Bingjie , Jiang Tianze , Zhao Xia , Yu Yang , Meng Xin
Published: November 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising approach for tumor treatment; however, the therapeutic resistance of cancer stem cells (CSCs) severely limits its efficacy and easily lead to recurrence. Herein, a hyaluronic acid (HA)‐Ce6‐Olaparib (OLA) micelle (HCCO) is developed, which combines the CSC targeting of HA, the PDT effect of Ce6, and the DNA damage repair inhibition of OLA. More importantly, HCCO induces immunogenic cell death (ICD) effects, promotes dendritic cells maturation, and alleviates myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) infiltration to reverse CSC resistance. As a result, HCCO not only significantly inhibits the growth of 4T1 breast cancer cells and CSCs in vitro, but also effectively inhibits tumor recurrence and metastasis in vivo. This study provides a novel strategy for preventing tumor recurrence and metastasis by the combination of inhibiting DNA damage repair, reversing CSC resistance, and enhancing PDT.
Mid‐Infrared Spectroscopy and Machine Learning for Nondestructive Detection of Inapparent Deterioration in Acrylic Waterborne Coatings for Wood
Authors: Teramoto Yoshikuni , Ito Takumi , Yamamoto Chihiro , Takano Toshiyuki , Ohki Hironari
Published: November 2023

This study presents an approach for nondestructive detection of inapparent deterioration in waterborne acrylic coatings (containing cellulose nanofibers (CNFs)) for wood by using mid‐infrared spectroscopy and machine learning. The method evaluates films that mimic coatings before and after 500 h of accelerated weathering, equivalent to roughly 1 year of outdoor exposure. No noticeable transformation in film appearance is evident with a spectrophotometer following the accelerated weathering. Chemiluminescence analysis indicates oxidative degradation predominantly in the acrylic resin, an impact that the CNFs seem to mitigate. Whereas attenuated total reflectance (ATR)‐Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy commonly identifies chemical changes in visibly degraded coatings, it does not clearly discern prior, inapparent deterioration. In this context, machine learning algorithms (such as k‐nearest neighbors, decision tree, random forest (RF), and support vector machine (SVM)) categorize these nuanced changes by using the absorbance from 400 to 4000 cm−1 as explanatory variables. The SVM model exhibits the highest predictive accuracy, and the RF recognizes crucial variables in some wavenumber zones. This approach has the potential for enhancing recoating schedules, cutting costs, and encouraging sustainable use of wood.
Unexpected findings in cervical spine in spondylometaphyseal dysplasia Sutcliff type FN1‐related
Authors: Ramos‐Mejía Rosario , Heath Karen E. , Modamio‐Høybjør Silvia , Huckstadt Victoria , Calcagni Julián , Remondino Rodrigo , Fano Virginia
Published: November 2023

The autosomal dominant spondylometaphyseal dysplasia Sutcliff type or corner fracture type FN1‐related is characterized by a combination of metaphyseal irregularities simulating fractures (“corner fractures”), developmental coxa vara, and vertebral changes. It is linked to heterozygous mutations in FN1 and COL2A1. Vertebral changes as delayed vertebral ossification, ovoid vertebral bodies, anterior vertebral wedging, and platyspondyly have been observed in this condition, while odontoid abnormalities have not been reported. We report an odontoid anomaly in a girl with SMD‐CF FN1‐related showing the heterozygous variant c.505T>A; p.(Cys169Ser), presenting at 11.9 years of age with acute quadriparesis. Images showed spinal cord compression and injury associated with os odontoideum and C1–C2 instability. She required decompression and instrumented occipitocervical stabilization, suffering from residual paraparesis. This paper describes the first case of SMD‐CF FN1‐related accompanied by odontoid anomalies.
Semiconductor Properties of π‐Extended 2‐(Thiopyran‐4‐ylidene)‐1,3‐benzodithiole (TP‐BT) Analogs
Authors: Nishimoto Hiroshi , Kadoya Tomofumi , Kawase Takeshi , Nishida Jun‐ichi
Published: November 2023

Despite having an asymmetric structure, 2‐(thiopyran‐4‐ylidene)‐1,3‐benzodithiole (TP‐BT) is a good p‐type semiconductor containing isotropic three‐dimensional (3D) intermolecular interactions. Moreover, its π‐extended analogs can potentially work as organic electronic materials. Herein, a fused‐type π‐extended analog containing an extra benzene ring on the benzodithiole unit, i. e., 2‐(thiopyran‐4‐ylidene)‐1,3‐naphtho[2,3‐d]dithiole (TP‐NT), and three σ‐bonded‐type π‐extended analogs, i. e., phenyl‐, naphthyl‐, and anthryl‐substituted analogs (Ph‐TP‐BT, Nap‐TP‐BT, and Ant‐TP‐BT, respectively), were prepared and their molecular arrangements and organic field‐effect transistor (OFET) properties were investigated. TP‐NT formed a herringbone arrangement with 3D intermolecular interactions similar to that of the parent TP‐BT. Meanwhile, Ant‐TP‐BT formed a bilayer‐type layered herringbone arrangement. Since the highest occupied molecular orbital and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital are located on the TP‐BT and anthracene units, respectively, a unique donor–acceptor separated network was formed. In OFETs prepared via a vapor deposition method using the σ‐bonded‐type analogs, slightly lower mobilities (0.1 to 8×10−3 cm2/Vs) than that of TP‐NT (0.1 cm2/Vs) were observed. Upon photo‐irradiation, the OFET of Ant‐TP‐BT exhibited a larger threshold voltage shift and an increase in the off current compared with TP‐NT. The σ‐bonded‐type analogs showed a larger photo‐response effect than TP‐NT derived from the donor–acceptor molecular structure.
Enantioselective Palladium(II)‐Catalyzed Desymmetrizative Coupling of 7‐Azabenzonorbornadienes with Alkynylanilines
Authors: Meng Junjie , He Hui , Liu Qianru , Xu Hanhong , Huang Huicai , Ni Shao‐Fei , Li Zhaodong
Published: November 2023

A PdII‐catalyzed, domino enantioselective desymmetrizative coupling of 7‐azabenzonorbornadienes with alkynylanilines is disclosed herein. This operationally simple transformation generates three covalent bonds and two contiguous stereocenters with excellent enantio‐ and diastereo‐selectivity. The resulting functionalized indole‐dihydronaphthalene‐amine conjugates served as an appealing platform to streamline the diversity‐oriented synthesis (DOS) of other valuable enantioenriched compounds. DFT calculations revealed that the two stabilizing non‐covalent interactions contributed to the observed enantioselectivity.
Enhanced Electrocatalytic Activity of Amorphized LaCoO3 for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Altaf Amna , Sohail Manzar , Altaf Muhammad , Nafady Ayman , Sher Muhammad , Wahab Md A.
Published: November 2023

Amorphous inorganic perovskites have attracted significant attention as efficient electrocatalysts due to their unique structural flexibility and good catalytic activity. In particular, the disordered structure and a surface rich in defects such as oxygen vacancies can contribute to the superior electrocatalytic activity of amorphous oxides compared to their crystalline counterpart. In this work, we report the synthesis of LaCoO3, followed by an amorphization process through urea reduction with tailored modifications. The as‐synthesized catalysts were thoroughly tested for their performance in oxygen evolution reaction (OER), Remarkably, the amorphous LaCoO3 synthesized at 450 °C (referred to as LCO‐4) exhibits excellent OER catalytic activity. At an overpotential of 310 mV, it achieved a current density of 10 mA/cm−2, exceedingly fast to 1 A/cm−2 at an overpotential of only 460 mV. Moreover, LCO‐4 exhibited several advantageous features compared to pristine LaCoO3 and LaCoO3 amorphized at other two temperatures (350 °C, LCO‐3, and 550 °C, LCO‐5). The amorphized LCO‐4 catalyst showed a higher electrochemically active surface area, a key factor in boosting catalytic performance. Additionally, LCO‐4 demonstrated the lowest Tafel slope of 70 mVdec−1, further highlighting its exceptional OER activity. Furthermore, the long‐term stability of LCO‐4 is notably superior than pristine LaCoO3 (LCO‐P) and the other amorphized samples (LCO‐3 and LCO‐5). The enhanced catalytic activity of LCO‐4 can be attributed to its unique disordered structure, small crystallite size, and higher concentration of oxygen vacancies in the final catalyst.
Wet deposition of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in a remote area of Central South China from 2014 to 2017
Authors: Li Yanxia , Duan Xiaoyong
Published: November 2023

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the consumption of fossil energy, leading to a significant rise in environmental pollution, particularly in China due to its rapid development. This has resulted in the frequent occurrence of large‐scale fog and haze weather, highlighting the urgent need for environmental protection measures. To gain insights into the atmospheric conditions in China, an analysis was conducted on the wet deposition of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in a remote region of Central South China from 2014 to 2017. The study revealed that the average concentrations and peak values of Ʃ16PAHs in 2014 and 2015 were considerably higher than those observed in 2016 and 2017. Furthermore, it was found that five‐ring PAH species were the predominant components during 2014 and 2015, indicating a shift in the main sources of PAHs. The peaks of Ʃ16PAHs were predominantly detected in samples collected during light rain in the winter, specifically on days without heavy rainfall. This can be attributed to the absence of heavy rain, which would otherwise reduce the concentration of air pollutants. Consequently, contaminants accumulated in the air are easily enriched in rainwater. The concentrations of Ʃ15Alkyl‐PAHs also exhibited a significant correlation with the number of rainfall days. Notably, a much higher annual average concentration of Ʃ15Alkyl‐PAHs was observed in 2017, which experienced fewer rainfall days. Coal combustion, petroleum sources, and vehicular emissions accounted for 58%, 12%, and 30% of the PAHs in the air, respectively. Despite improvements in air quality in China since 2016, it is crucial to address the elevated concentrations of PAHs in the atmosphere, particularly under adverse meteorological conditions characterized by reduced rainfall.
Analysis of the phytochemical components of Prunella vulgaris using high‐performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry combined with molecular networking and assessment of their antioxidant and anti‐α‐glucosidase activities
Authors: Cao Li‐ping , Li Yi‐min , Li Shu‐guang , Ren Qiang
Published: November 2023

Prunella vulgaris has long been used in traditional medicine and is consumed as a tea in China. Here, the total phenolic and flavonoid concentrations of plants from different geographical regions were measured. It was found that the total phenolic acid concentration ranged from 4.15 to 8.82 g of gallic acid equivalent per 100 g of dry weight (DW), and the total flavonoid concentration was 4.67–7.33 g of rutin equivalent per 100 g DW. Antioxidant activities were measured using 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′‐azino‐bis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) diammonium salt, and the results ranged from 73.47% to 94.43% and 74.54% to 93.39%, respectively, whereas α‐glucosidase inhibition was between 75.31% and 95.49%. Correlation analysis showed that the total flavonoids in P. vulgaris had superior antioxidant and anti‐α‐glucosidase activities compared to the total phenolic compounds. The active components of P. vulgaris were analyzed using high‐performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry combined with both classical molecular networking and feature‐based molecular networking on the Global Natural Products Social platform, identifying 32 compounds, namely 14 flavonoids, 12 phenolic compounds, and 6 other chemical components. These results could provide useful information on the use of P. vulgaris as a functional tea.
Simple and rapid determination of triclabendazole and its metabolites in bovine and goat muscle tissue
Authors: Xu Feng , Yang Ting , Yu Jiayong , Wu Yinliang
Published: November 2023

Triclabendazole (TCB) is widely used for prevention and treatment of parasitic infections in animals. Improper use can result in drug residues in animal tissues and cause health problems to humans through consumption. A simple and reliable analytical method for the determination of TCB and its metabolites in bovine and goat muscle using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) was developed and validated. Analytes were extracted using acetonitrile and purified using enhanced matrix removal cartridge. Chromatographic separation was carried out on a BEH Shield RP18 column. The analytes were detected in positive‐mode electrospray ionization mass spectrometry using multiple reaction monitoring. Average recoveries of 96.1%–105.6% with coefficients of variation of 1.9%–8.4% were obtained at fortification levels of 0.5, 2.5, 25, and 50 μg/kg for TCB and 5.0, 25, 250, and 500 μg/kg for its metabolites (triclabendazole sulfoxide, triclabendazole sulfone, and keto‐TCB). A good linear regression was obtained with the mixed standard solutions in the range of 0.05–20 μg/L for TCB and 0.5–200 μg/L for its metabolites. The limit of quantification and limit of detection ranged from 0.05 to 0.75 μg/kg and from 0.1 to 1.5 μg/kg, respectively. Moreover, this method was successfully applied to 33 real samples.
Does the micro become macro in developing economies? A study to trace sustainable circular replacements for emerging world's green development
Authors: Rawat Prigya , Arya Vikas , Paul Justin , Roy Hiran
Published: November 2023

The emerging world cannot ignore circular bio‐economic development for long. A study of circular bioeconomy pointers at the local level is required to expedite the outgrowth of local economies. The narrative of “for the locals, by the locals, and at the local” is pursued in the study, by recognizing the research gaps concerning local economies' growth needs and their effective penetration into the advancement of circular bio‐economies, followed by the research objectives. The first question includes what role circular bio‐economic indicators play at the micro‐level in growing local economies and, second, emphasis on what role circular bio‐economic indicators play at the micro‐level to boost local economies. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with circular organizations in Afro‐Asian states, resulting in seven themes derived by collating semantic and latent codes: patriotism, psychological safety, sustainable leadership, intrusive thoughts, ancestral footprints, waste valorization, and developing green brand evangelists. The study and findings seek to contribute to micro‐level circular bioeconomy indicators. Theoretical ideas, practical applications, and limitations are acutely discussed, exfoliating the developed world's conventional waste and residual sustainable outcomes covered till now in the circular bioeconomy literature.
Community arts, identity and recovery: A realist review of how community‐based arts activities enables the identity change recovery process from serious mental illness
Authors: Peters Louisa Anne , Gomersall Tim , Booth Andrew , Lucock Mike
Published: November 2023

Identity has been empirically established as a recovery process from serious mental illness (SMI) yet is often overlooked within intervention evaluations. Community arts presents one such intervention with emerging evidence illustrating the potential for recovery to occur within this context. However, research indicates numerous mechanisms may be involved in the identity recovery process, making it difficult to determine what works, for whom and in what context. The current review aimed to generate new theories to explain how, why and in what context community arts enable the identity change recovery process for individuals with SMI. A realist review was conducted between January and September 2021, with 22 articles and reports reviewed and synthesised to develop a theory. A safe and empowering intervention context was found to be vital to activate three key mechanism pathways: (a) feeling in control of SMI through coping; (b) achieving acceptance through connectedness and (c) overcoming personal challenges. The outcome was the development of positive self‐awareness, which enables individuals to redefine identity beyond SMI through both social and personal identities. Novel insights are presented through theory development, utilising the Social Identity Approach to Health and Transformative Learning Theory to conceptualise the findings through a multi‐theoretical lens. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
In Silico, in Vitro and in Vivo Study of Substituted Imidazolidinone Sulfonamides as Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Hodyna Diana , Kovalishyn Vasyl , Kachaeva Maryna , Shulha Yurii , Klipkov Anton , Shaitanova Elena , Kobzar Oleksandr , Shablykin Oleh , Metelytsia Larysa
Published: November 2023

New substituted imidazolidinone sulfonamides have been developed using a rational drug design strategy. Predictive QSAR models for the search of new antibacterials were created using the OCHEM platform. Regression models were applied to verify a virtual chemical library of new imidazolidinone derivatives designed to have antibacterial activity. A number of substituted imidazolidinone sulfonamides as effective antibacterial agents were identified by QSAR prediction, synthesized and characterized by spectral and elemental, and tested in vitro. Six studied compounds have shown the highest in vitro antibacterial activity against Gram‐negative E. coli and Gram‐positive S. aureus multidrug‐resistant strains. The in vivo acute toxicity of these imidazolidinone sulfonamides based on the LC50 value ranged from 16.01 to 44.35 mg/L (slightly toxic compounds class). The results of molecular docking suggest that the antibacterial mechanism of the compounds can be associated with the inhibition of post‐translational modification processes of bacterial peptides and proteins.
Ni Nanoparticles Supported Over Triazine Based Porous Organic Polymer for Selective CO2 Photo‐Reduction to Methanol
Authors: Nandi Dip Kumar , Seth Jhumur , Chakrabortty Pekham , Ghosh Swarbhanu , Chowdhury Avik , Bhaumik Asim , Islam Sk Manirul
Published: November 2023

Porous organic polymers (POPs) have attracted substantial attentions over the years due to their exceptionally high specific surface areas, high chemical stability of the organic network and ease of surface functionalization with the desired organic groups. In this work, a triazine based POP (TrzPOP) was synthesized through Schiff base polycondensation reaction between a tetramine bearing triazine rings and phenolic–OH group rich dialdehyde. Ni nanoparticles (NiNP) synthesized independently were immobilized over TrzPOP to obtain the NiNP@TrzPOP composite catalyst. This TrzPOP possesses a high BET surface area of 1494 m2 g−1 and low band gap, which facilitates its role as visible light absorbent. NiNP@TrzPOP with N‐rich surfaces and phenolic–OH moieties displayed excellent photocatalytic activity in the CO2 photoreduction under mild reaction conditions. NiNP@TrzPOP composite selectively reduces CO2 to methanol. The turn over number (TON) for this photoreduction of CO2 under optimized reaction conditions is 270, which is considerably high comparing to other reported photocatalytic systems. Moreover, NiNP@TrzPOP composite catalytic system showed high recycling efficiency without noticeable decrease in its performance over five consecutive reaction cycles, suggesting its huge potential for large‐scale methanol synthesis from the renewable carbon source.
Activation of Glassy Carbon Surfaces by Alkaline Anodization Enhances Dopamine Adsorption and Electron‐Transfer Kinetics
Authors: Swinya Dalia L. , Martín‐Yerga Daniel , Walker Marc , Unwin Patrick R.
Published: November 2023

Surface activation can increase the sensitivity of carbon electrodes for electrochemical detection of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine (DA). However, fully understanding the changes in DA behavior after electrode activation remains elusive. Herein, we use scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) to investigate DA adsorption and electrochemistry on glassy carbon (GC) after anodization in alkaline media. Through localized microscale anodization to different extents (two distinct times and same potential), followed by spatially‐resolved SECCM, we achieve direct visualization of DA electrochemistry across unmodified and anodized GC regions, with complementary microscopy and spectroscopy unraveling the effects of co‐located carbon surface chemistry and structure. Our findings reveal that short anodization times (60 s) enhance DA adsorption, rapidly reaching nearly complete monolayer coverage. Longer anodization (300 s) induces further changes in electrochemical surface area so that although the DA surface concentration increased based on geometric area, it was smaller based on specific surface area. This work highlights that even small differences in surface properties after activation can significantly impact electrode performance for neurotransmitter sensing, and separating the individual contribution of chemical and topographical factors remains challenging. SECCM provides an excellent platform to assess activation methods in a high throughput format to help accelerate the discovery of optimal modified electrodes.
Cyclic Azobenzene‐BODIPY Hybrids
Authors: Wen Bin , Li Chao , Kang Byeongjoo , Zheng Tao , Wang Yi , Jiang Yibei , Xu Ling , Oh Juwon , Osuka Atsuhiro , Kim Dongho , Song Jianxin
Published: November 2023

Cyclic azobenzene‐BODIPY hybrids were synthesized via cyclization by 1) acid‐catalysed condensation of azobenzene‐bridged dipyrroles with 3,5‐di‐tert‐butylbenzaldehyde, 2) oxidation with DDQ, and 3) metalation with BF3 ⋅ Et2O. The structures of many cyclic hybrids have been confirmed by single crystal X‐ray analysis. The absorption spectra of the hybrids reveal the effective cyclic conjugation. The ultrafast measurements reveal that the photoexcited decays of these cyclic hybrids depend upon the ring size and connectivity.
Cellular and laminar architecture: A short history and commentary
Authors: Rockland Kathleen S.
Published: November 2023

The feedforward/feedback classification, as originally stated in relation to early visual areas in the macaque monkey, has had a significant influence on ideas of laminar interactions, area reciprocity, and cortical hierarchical organization. In some contrast with this macroscale “laminar connectomics,” a more cellular approach to cortical connections, as briefly surveyed here, points to a still underappreciated heterogeneity of neuronal subtypes and complex microcircuitries. From the perspective of heterogeneities, the question of how brain regions interact and influence each other quickly leads to discussions about concurrent hierarchical and nonhierarchical cortical features, brain organization as a multiscale system forming nested groups and hierarchies, connectomes annotated by multiple biological attributes, and interleaved and overlapping scales of organization.
Quantitative EEG in the neonatal intensive care unit: Current application and future promise
Authors: Keene Jennifer C. , Benedetti Giulia M. , Tomko Stuart R. , Guerriero Réjean M.
Published: November 2023

Importance

Quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) has been used in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for several decades. Recent innovations have led to renewed interest in expanding its role in the NICU with the goal of improving both acute care of neonates in the NICU and longer‐term outcomes.

Observations

EEG in the NICU is primarily used to identify neonatal seizures. Sophisticated analysis of EEG can detect other acute neurological emergencies and provide additional information about short‐ and long‐term neurodevelopmental and epileptic prognosis. Using EEG for these additional findings may be limited by access to EEG resources and a constrained supply of neonatal neurophysiologists who can consistently evaluate unique neonatal EEG patterns.

Relevance

Quantitative EEG analysis is a rapidly developing technology with the potential to augment and support the interpretation of neonatal EEGs. This review focuses on the status of qEEG use in the NICU for identification and prediction of seizures and use in neuroprognostication. It also examines areas of promise for bedside qEEG applications.
Comorbidity among depression, anxiety and stress symptoms in naturalistic clinical samples: A cross‐cultural network analysis
Authors: Mihić Ljiljana , Janičić Bojan , Marchetti Igor , Novović Zdenka , Sica Claudio , Bottesi Gioia , Belopavlović Radomir , Jakšić Nenad
Published: November 2023

Comorbidity between depression and anxiety is well‐established across various settings and cultures. We approached comorbidity from the network psychopathology perspective and examined the depression, anxiety/autonomic arousal and stress/tension symptoms in naturalistic clinical samples from Serbia, Italy and Croatia. This was a multisite study in which regularized partial correlation networks of the symptoms, obtained via self‐reports on the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scales‐21 (DASS‐21) in three cross‐cultural, clinical samples (total N = 874), were compared with respect to centrality, edge weights, community structure and bridge centrality. A moderate degree of similarity in a number of network indices across the three networks was observed. While negative mood emerged to be the most central node, stress/tension nodes were the most likely bridge symptoms between depressive and anxiety/autonomic arousal symptoms. We demonstrated that the network structure and features in mixed clinical samples were similar across three different languages and cultures. The symptoms such as agitation, restlessness and inability to relax functioned as bridges across the three symptom communities explored in this study. Important theoretical and clinical implications were derived.
The hydroxy acids: Where have we been and what's new?
Authors: Egli Caitlin , Min Mildred , Afzal Nasima , Sivamani Raja K.
Published: November 2023

Background

Hydroxy Acids (HAs) have been used for the treatment of a variety of skin conditions over the past several decades. The use of HAs in both pharmaceutical and cosmetic products has increased dramatically, and recent studies have been undertaken to better understand their applications and therapeutic benefits.

Objective

The objective of this review is to study the uses of HAs and the emerging ingredients in the area of skin care. Relevant studies were reviewed and categorized by their molecular structure into alpha HAs (AHAs) beta HAs (BHAs) and poly HAs (PHAs).

Methods

A literature search on the use of HAs was performed and articles for review were selected from more recent dermatological studies published from 2018 to 2023. Older research was compared to the results of newer studies to identify the more recent developments in the application of HAs in skin care.

Results

The new research was concentrated in the area of new uses of the HAs, validating therapeutic concentrations and protocols, and combining different HAs and other chemicals to improve therapeutic outcomes for a variety of skin conditions and diseases.

Conclusion

The articles included for review demonstrate the continuing therapeutic relevance and developments in the application of HAs in skin care.
Establishing peat‐forming plant communities: A comparison of wetland reclamation methods in Alberta's oil sands region
Authors: Borkenhagen Andrea , Cooper David J. , House Melissa , Vitt Dale H.
Published: November 2023

The Sandhill Wetland (SW) and Nikanotee Fen (NF) are two wetland research projects designed to test the viability of peatland reclamation in the Alberta oil sands post‐mining landscape. To identify effective approaches for establishing peat‐forming vegetation in reclaimed wetlands, we evaluated how plant introduction approaches and water level gradients influence species distribution, plant community development, and the establishment of bryophyte and peatland species richness and cover. Plant introduction approaches included seeding with a Carex aquatilis‐dominated seed mix, planting C. aquatilis and Juncus balticus seedlings, and spreading a harvested moss layer transfer. Establishment was assessed 6 years after the introduction at SW and 5 years after the introduction at NF. In total, 51 species were introduced to the reclaimed wetlands, and 122 species were observed after 5 and 6 years. The most abundant species in both reclaimed wetlands was C. aquatilis, which produced dense canopies and occupied the largest water level range of observed plants. Introducing C. aquatilis also helped to exclude marsh plants such as Typha latifolia that has little to no peat accumulation potential. Juncus balticus persisted where the water table was lower and encouraged the formation of a diverse peatland community and facilitated bryophyte establishment. Various bryophytes colonized suitable areas, but the moss layer transfer increased the cover of desirable peat‐forming mosses. Communities with the highest bryophyte and peatland species richness and cover (averaging 9 and 14 species, and 50%–160% cover respectively) occurred where the summer water level was between −10 and −40 cm. Outside this water level range, a marsh community of Typha latifolia dominated in standing water and a wet meadow upland community of Calamagrostis canadensis and woody species established where the water table was deeper. Overall, the two wetland reclamation projects demonstrated that establishing peat‐forming vascular plants and bryophytes is possible, and community formation is dependent upon water level and plant introduction approaches. Future projects should aim to create microtopography with water tables within 40 cm of the surface and introduce vascular plants such as J. balticus that facilitate bryophyte establishment and support the development of a diverse peatland plant community.
Self‐efficacy and healthcare costs in patients with chronic heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Blanck Elin , Pirhonen Nørmark Laura , Fors Andreas , Ekman Inger , Ali Lilas , Swedberg Karl , Gyllensten Hanna
Published: November 2023

Aims

This study aims to explore possible associations between self‐efficacy and healthcare and drug expenditures (i.e. direct costs) in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in a study investigating the effects of person‐centred care delivered by telephone.

Methods and results

This exploratory analysis uses data from an open randomized controlled trial conducted between January 2015 and November 2016, providing remote person‐centred care by phone to patients with CHF, COPD, or both. Patients hospitalized due to worsening of CHF or COPD were eligible for the study. Randomization was based on a computer‐generated list, stratified for age ≥ 75 and diagnosis. At a 6 month follow‐up, 118 persons remained in a control group and 103 in an intervention group. The intervention group received person‐centred care by phone as an addition to usual care. Trial data were linked to register data on healthcare and drug use. Group‐based trajectory modelling was applied to identify trajectories for general self‐efficacy and direct costs. Next, associations between self‐efficacy trajectories and costs were assessed using regression analysis. Five trajectories were identified for general self‐efficacy, of which three indicated different levels of increasing or stable self‐efficacy, while two showed a decrease over time in self‐efficacy. Three trajectories were identified for costs, indicating a gradient from lower to higher accumulated costs. Increasing or stable self‐efficacy was associated with lower direct costs (P = 0.0013).

Conclusions

The findings show that an increased or sustained self‐efficacy is associated with lower direct costs in patients with CHF or COPD. Person‐centred phone contacts used as an add‐on to usual care could result in lower direct costs for those with stable or increasing self‐efficacy.