bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Closures: Reconfiguration of Professional Work in the Danish State School
Authors: Brodersen Marianne
Published: March 2022

The interconnectedness between the formation of a professional group and its specific tasks and competencies is at the core of sociological theories of professions. In neo-Weberian approaches to social closure, the shaping and maintenance of professional groups have been conceptualised as state-sanctioned efforts to gain control over a specific task area. However, whereas legally sanctioned monopolies have been subject to certain attention, the social dynamics of processes of professional closure in everyday work practices seem relatively unexplored. This article demonstrates how social closure can be analysed as interrelated processes, covering legal as well as practical, symbolic elements. Drawing on the case of the 2014 Danish School Reform and its introduction of a new professional group in Danish schools, “pedagogues”, the article sheds light on the interplay between a state-driven reconfiguration of a task area and the subtle dynamics of symbolic struggles between the two professions teachers and pedagogues.
A spotlight on non-host resistance to plant viruses
Authors: Rai Avanish , Sivalingam Palaiyur N. , Senthil-Kumar Muthappa
Published: March 2022

Plant viruses encounter a range of host defenses including non-host resistance (NHR), leading to the arrest of virus replication and movement in plants. Viruses have limited host ranges, and adaptation to a new host is an atypical phenomenon. The entire genotypes of plant species which are imperceptive to every single isolate of a genetically variable virus species are described as non-hosts. NHR is the non-specific resistance manifested by an innately immune non-host due to pre-existing and inducible defense responses, which cannot be evaded by yet-to-be adapted plant viruses. NHR-to-plant viruses are widespread, but the phenotypic variation is often not detectable within plant species. Therefore, molecular and genetic mechanisms of NHR need to be systematically studied to enable exploitation in crop protection. This article comprehensively describes the possible mechanisms of NHR against plant viruses. Also, the previous definition of NHR to plant viruses is insufficient, and the main aim of this article is to sensitize plant pathologists to the existence of NHR to plant viruses and to highlight the need for immediate and elaborate research in this area.
Insight into the cryptic diversity and phylogeography of the peculiar fried egg jellyfish Phacellophora (Cnidaria, Scyphozoa, Ulmaridae)
Authors: Moura Carlos J. , Ropa Nikolai , Magalhães Bruno Ivo , Gonçalves João M.
Published: March 2022

The fried egg jellyfish Phacellophora camtschatica (senso lato) is a morphologically peculiar and conspicuous species occurring mostly in the cold waters of the North Pacific. It is less common in the cold waters of the NW Atlantic, and occasionally has been reported in the Mediterranean, Arctic, East and South Pacific, and E, SW and NE Atlantic. However, sightings of this scyphozoan jellyfish have intensified during the past two to three decades in Macaronesia, the Iberian Peninsula and the Mediterranean. These jellyfish are known to be voracious predators of other jellies, but also of other taxa, including fish of commercial interest. Therefore, Phacellophora aggregations may threaten local fisheries, aquaculture, and local biodiversity structuring. We report the first known occurrences of Phacellophora in the Azores Islands, which apparently become more frequent in recent years of the past decade. We confirm, through DNA barcoding of COI and 16S mitochondrial markers, the genetic identity of Phacellophora occurring in the Azores (NE Atlantic). We reveal, with COI sequence data, three (potentially four) cryptic species within the Phacellophora camtschatica complex. Two Phacellophora species co-occur in the North Pacific. In the North Atlantic (and possibly in the Mediterranean) one or two distinct species exist. Three nominal species of the genus that are currently synonymized, with type localities in the N Pacific, NW Atlantic, and the Mediterranean, need reassessment. The morphotypes previously defined for the four putative species names given for Phacellophora might be eventually differentiated by the number and disposition of the marginal lappets of umbrellae. This morphologic character has to be further inspected in vouchers of the four genetic lineages of Phacellophora, to decide between the description of new species, and the resurrection of junior synonyms through the designation of neotypes with DNA Barcodes, to validate the identity of the cryptic taxa detected. More haplotype sampling is necessary across the distribution of the genus to further investigate the genetic diversity and phylogeographic history of Phacellophora. The high genetic relatedness of Phacellophora from the cold NW Atlantic and the sub-tropical shores of the Azores, revealed by 16S and COI sequence data, suggests a recent invasion, in terms of geologic time, of the temperate waters of the NE Atlantic (and possibly of the Mediterranean). The medusivorous habits of Phacellophora, and especially its predation on the mauve stinger (Pelagia spp.) which frequently blooms in Macaronesia and Mediterranean waters, could relate to the recent reports of Phacellophora in the Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands, and the Mediterranean.

More investment, including on scientific staff, is necessary to catalog, DNA barcode and monitor jellyfish dynamics more accurately worldwide.
FINANCIAL KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AMONG SMALL BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURS IN NIGERIA
Authors: HASSAN Banjo Ally , SOFOLUWE Nurudeen Afolabi
Published: March 2022

A good level of literacy in financial management has been viewed as crucial to enhancing the growth of small business. However, the level of knowledge and attitude of managers of these businesses remains unclear. This study determines the level of financial literacy among small business managers. Using a survey research design, the study covers small business enterprises in Ogun State, Nigeria. Primary data obtained through questionnaire were analysed. The results show that the overall level of attitude of small business owners to insurance and savings are low. Similarly, based on financial knowledge relating to financing sources and interest estimation are also low. The overall financial management practices among the owners are also not encouraging. The findings suggest a need for an improved level of financial literacy among business enterprises to sustain the growth of the sector.
THE MANAGEMENT OF VILLAGE FUNDS TRANSPARENCY IN JAYAPURA CITY (A STUDY IN TOBATI, ENGGROS, AND NAFRI VILLAGE)
Authors: KUDDY Aprianto La’lang , LAMBA Ramasoyan Arung
Published: March 2022

Village fund is managed by the village government based on the principles of transparecy, accountability, and participation. However, the funds allocation is still used in innapropriate way. This study aims to know the community’s knowledge and involvement on the village funding program and to know the transparency of the village funding management during 2016 until 2019. This study uses quantitative methodology with 125 respondents from three villages in Jayapura city – Tobati, Enggros, and Nafri village. The data were collected by observing, interviewing and giving questionnaire to the respondents. The results showed that the community’s knowledge and involvement in the process of making and managing the village funds are very small. While the transparency level for the village funding is not yet worked in a proper way. Therefore, the management of village funds transparency in three villages in Jayapura city still needed a further optimalization.
A REVIEW ON MACRO-ECONOMIC VIEW IN ETHIOPIA’S ENTREPRENEURSHIP UNDER COVID-19
Authors: Redi Selamawit Assefa , NOVÁK Petr
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused greater challenge for the investors and policymakers to mitigate the consequences of this pandemic. Through a review of the literature on the economics of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, this study explores the effects of the pandemic on the entrepreneurship taking in to account the gross domestic product, employment, and inflation (consumer price index) of Ethiopia during the first years of the pandemic. The review reveals that adverse economic effects have been observed due to the COVID-19 pandemic in addition to fatalities. The pandemic has influenced in a negative way the country’s economy by reducing the GDP growth which has been recorded as one of the fastest economies for the last decade. The partial shutdown taken by the government as a response of the pandemic has led million lose their work increasing the unemployment rate and thus triggering inflation on consumers goods.
Pre-harvest Losses of Musa spp. and Food Security Situation of Households in Sub-Sahara Africa
Authors: Nkwain K. T. , Odiaka E. C. , Ikwuba A. A. , Fatty L. K. M. , Gam A. T.
Published: March 2022

Musa spp. generally known as bananas and plantains are staples to many in Africa. However, pre-harvest losses of these crops for the past two decades are alarming. The paper reveals that pre-harvest losses of bananas and plantains since 2002 ranges from 20.7-100% in Sub-Sahara Africa with most countries recording 50% losses and above. The paper further categorised the causes of pre-harvest losses of Musa spp. into natural, agronomic, biotic and human-induced constraints. Among these categories, human-induced constraints are seen to cause the highest pre-harvest losses as they influence the occurrence of other constraints. Some of the primary natural and agronomic constraints are storm, drought, and irregular/mixed cropping and over dependent on sward suckers and rainfall respectively. Fusarium wilt, Banana Xanthomonas wilt (BXW), banana bunchy top disease, black sigatoka and cigar-end rot are some of the biotic constraints reported in most producing countries in the region. Pests such as banana weevils, nematodes, mealy-bugs and white grubs are equally identified as potential causes of Musa pre-harvest losses while some human-induced constraints are farmer-grazier conflicts, weak extension system and poor inputs. The paper revealed that in Rwanda, pre-harvest losses of bananas led to an increase (14-64%) of the number of households who were unable to eat their preferred meal in all the months of the year while in Tanzania, the food situation of 53.8% of the households were reported to be very bad. Meanwhile in Cameroon, insufficient food was reported in 81% of the producing households in Boyo Division. It is therefore, concluded that in order to minimise pre-harvest losses and enhance the food security status of the producers and consumers in the region, proper propping, pruning, crop rotation and above all integrated pest and disease management techniques should be practiced while Musa research centres should be decentralising, extension delivery systems revisited and disease-free planting materials provided to the farmers.
Estimation of Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Hybrid RICE (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Prasanna G. , Eswari K. B. , Senguttuvel P. , Reddy S. Narender
Published: March 2022

The current study was conducted at the Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR) to look at the genetic characteristics for quantitative characters in 64 hybrid rice genotypes (Oryza sativa L.). For all of the characters, the analysis of variance indicated significant differences. The characters with the highest phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation were productive tillers per plant, filled grains per panicle, and single plant yield (GCV). Plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, number of filled grains per panicle, grain yield per plant, and test weight all had high heritability and genetic advance as a percent of mean, indicating the influence of additive gene action. As a result, simple selection could likely be effective for improving these traits.
Level of Mediations on Pain and Satisfaction Level of Patients Undergoing Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Javaid Ayesha , Gull Mah , Tasleem Iqra
Published: March 2022

The main objective of the study was to analyse the level of mediations on pain and satisfaction level of patients undergoing abdominal surgery. This cross sectional study was conducted at Fatima Jinnah Medical University Lahore. The study was performed with 124 patients undergoing abdominal surgery under general anesthesia aged 18-65, with no diagnosis of cancer, no chronic pain, hospitalized for at least 24 hour following the surgical procedure, undergoing elective surgery and agreeing to participate. The data was collected from 124 patients with mean age 18 to 40 years. The data was collected from both genders. Of a total of 124 abdominal-surgery patient subjects, 58.1% were male, 94.3% were married, 61.3% had undergone surgery, and 41.1% had undergone total gastrectomy. Among the 124 participants, 47 were included in the control group, 36 in experimental group. Regarding their general characteristics, no significant differences in any aspects were observed. It is concluded that preoperative nursing intervention for pain has positive effects for patients undergoing abdominal surgery.
A Pragmatic Study of Speech Acts in the Clay Poem by Elia Abi Madhi
Authors: Janabi Dr. Hamzah Obayes , Al-Azzawi Dr. Kadhim Jasim Mansoor
Published: March 2022

Speech Acts are the third type of pragmatics. They refer to what is actually being done in a given context because pragmatics is concerned with the study of language in use. From Austen's point of view, they are the acts that the speaker performs with his/her own words under extralinguistic conditions. The present study will reveal the speech acts in Elia Abi Madhi’s poem, The Clay to show their types and their performing purpose depending on Searle’s classification of speech acts into informative, directive, obligatory, expressive, and declarative.
Analysis and Conclusion of Pragmatics in Syntactic Structures
Authors: Al-Juaifari Hanaa Idan Mahdi
Published: March 2022

The emergence of the concept of modern pragmatics is what prompted linguists to pay attention to the issue of reception. For a period of time, linguistics has been divided into two main traditional divisions, syntax, which studies the relationship between linguistic signs, and semantics, which examines the relationships of linguistic signs with the meanings they signify. These two branches aspired to describe the works of human language. Then, philosophers of language added a third section and called it pragmatics, which is concerned with the relations of the linguistic sign. The present study aims to reveal and highlight the pragmatic dimensions in the ancient linguistic lesson in some grammatical structures, including addressing, contracting, and temptation and warning. The researcher selected samples and applied pragmatic dimensions on them to clarify their forms.
Asynchronous and Synchronous Online TESOL Education
Authors: Cervatiuc Andreea
Published: March 2022

Online TESOL courses can be categorized into asynchronous, synchronous, and a combination of these two modalities. Despite the two levels of separation that characterize asynchronous online TESOL courses, time and space, they can be as effective or even more effective than synchronous courses, which have to compensate only for one level of separation, space. Asynchronous online learning is more flexible and inclusive than synchronous online learning. Synchronous courses are more similar to on‐campus courses in terms of course materials and communication. Effective online TESOL programs are mainly asynchronous with a limited number of synchronous classes. This blended model of online instruction resembles flipped classrooms, in which learning is front‐loaded through asynchronous materials and communication and the synchronous class time is reserved for active learning activities. Effective online TESOL programs foster facilitating teaching presence, situated learning, social and cognitive presence, and deep learning.
Promising Technologies and Their Uses for English Learners with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Fies Carmen , Ewoldt Kathy B.
Published: March 2022

This entry is focused on the intersection of the learning needs of students who are English learners as well as students with learning disabilities, and promising digital technology tools and their pedagogically sound integration in classrooms with diverse learner populations. As this writing is contextualized in the tremendous impact of Covid‐19 on the education landscape, particular attention is paid to tools that are supportive of online learning. The authors include specific recommendations for technology integration, but also caution educators to proceed with careful attention to the needs of learners. In addition, they make the case that school administrators must support teachers through sustained professional development and through dedicated time for exploring and implementing technology enhancements.
Undergraduate EFL Writing
Authors: Altinmakas Derya
Published: March 2022

This entry focuses on post‐secondary writing research exploring idiosyncratic dynamics of undergraduate writing in contexts where English is taught and used as a foreign language (EFL). In EFL contexts, English is commonly used as medium of instruction (EMI) along with national languages in higher education institutions. Academic writing practices of undergraduate students in EMI programs are influenced by a multiple array of individual, pedagogical, educational, and sociocultural factors. Accommodating their existing L1 and L2 writing repertoire to the newer ways of learning and writing in post‐secondary education and trying to meet the expectations of faculty members posit challenges for EFL undergraduate students with insufficient writing experience and L2 language socialization. Pedagogical implications are discussed in detail with references to the findings of the research investigating linguistic, educational, and contextual factors influencing EFL undergraduate students' writing practices.
Using Word Association Tests to Assess L2 Vocabulary Proficiency
Authors: Wimhurst Andrew
Published: March 2022

Word association tests (WA tests) have been used by researchers interested in measuring L2 vocabulary knowledge among L2 learners of English, although WA tests of L2 vocabulary proficiency have not yet been widely implemented by language teachers. This entry aims to re‐evaluate the WA test as a tool to assess L2 vocabulary proficiency. Research investigating the potential of WA tests to measure L2 vocabulary proficiency is considered, followed by a description of two WA tests that have shown some success at measuring L2 vocabulary knowledge. The entry concludes with an overview of the notion of central words in lexical networks and outlines a need for further research within this area, which could lead to the development of an L2 vocabulary assessment tool for use by teachers.
Study Abroad and Second Language Development
Authors: Güvendi̇r Emre
Published: March 2022

Many people consider being abroad as the ideal condition for language development. Hence, the number of students who participate in study abroad (SA) programs to learn languages has increased dramatically during the 21st century. This entry focuses on the effects of SA participation on second language development and explains how individual differences and external factors create unpredictable results for learners. The entry highlights the institutional and educational support options and practices that can maximize the benefits learners can get from SA experiences.
The Negotiated Syllabus
Authors: Prior Jemma
Published: March 2022

The negotiated syllabus is an example of a process‐approach to syllabus design where learners are provided with opportunities to participate in the decision‐making of the syllabus. As such, it is a type of syllabus that is more learner centered than the more common product‐approaches to syllabus design, which tend to be those used in coursebooks. This entry examines the development of the negotiated syllabus and how it has opposed the traditional models of learning, and examines some of the issues related to the negotiated syllabus and how these can be overcome. There are also suggestions as to how a negotiated syllabus can be integrated into an existing syllabus in order to provide learners with valuable language learning opportunities as well as greater responsibility for their learning.
Multiscale Hierarchical Architecture‐Based Bioactive Scaffolds for Versatile Tissue Engineering
Authors: Ma Hongshi , Yang Chen , Ma Zhenjiang , Wei Xiaoyue , Younis Muhammad Rizwan , Wang Hanbo , Li Wentao , Wang Zhiyong , Wang Wenhao , Luo Yongxiang , Huang Peng , Wang Jinwu
Published: March 2022

Artificial construction from tendon to bone remains a formidable challenge in tissue engineering owing to their structural complexity. In this work, bioinspired calcium silicate nanowires and alginate composite hydrogels are utilized as building blocks to construct multiscale hierarchical bioactive scaffolds for versatile tissue engineering from tendon to bone. By integrating 3D printing technology and mechanical stretch post‐treatment in a confined condition, the obtained composite hydrogels possess bioinspired reinforcement architectures from nano‐ to submicron‐ to microscale with significantly enhanced mechanical properties. The biochemical and topographical cues of the composite hydrogel scaffolds provide much more efficient microenvironment to the rabbit bone mesenchymal stem cells and rabbit tendon stem cells, leading to ordered alignment and improved differentiation. The composite hydrogels markedly promote in vivo tissue regeneration from bone to tendon, especially fibrocartilage transitional tissue. Therefore, such calcium silicate nanowires/alginate composite hydrogels with multiscale hierarchical structures have potential application for tissue regeneration from tendon to bone. This work provides an innovative strategy to construct multiscale hierarchical architecture‐based scaffolds for tendon/bone engineering.
Rapidly and Repeatedly Reprogrammable Liquid Crystalline Elastomer via a Shape Memory Mechanism
Authors: Chen Guancong , Jin Binjie , Shi Yunpeng , Zhao Qian , Shen Youqing , Xie Tao
Published: March 2022

Realization of muscle‐like actuation for a liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) requires mesogen alignment, which is typically achieved/fixed chemically during the synthesis. Post‐synthesis regulation of the alignment in a convenient and repeatable manner is highly desirable yet challenging. Here, a dual‐phase LCE network is designed and synthesized with a crystalline melting transition above a liquid crystalline transition. The crystalline phase can serve as an “alignment frame” to fix any mechanical deformation via a shape memory mechanism, leading to corresponding mesogen alignment in the liquid crystalline phase. The alignment can be erased by melting, which can be the starting point for reprogramming. This strategy that relies on a physical shape memory transition for mesogen alignment permits repeated reprogramming in a timescale of seconds, in stark contrast to typical methods. It further leads to unusual versatility in designing 3D printed LCE with unlimited programmable actuation modes.
Relationship between Viscosity and Resistance of Oil Film: A New Way to Investigate the Controllable Friction between Charged Interfaces Lubricated by Ionic Lubricating Oil
Authors: Zhang Caixia , Chen Junmin , Liu Mengmeng , Wang Fei , Zheng Yaqi , Cheng Yanhong , Liu Zhifeng
Published: March 2022

Intelligent lubricating materials can control the coefficient of friction between interfaces in response to external stimuli. Considering that mechanical transmission parts are mostly used in oil‐based lubrication environments, the lubrication performance and electrical regulation mechanism of poly‐α‐olefin‐50 (PAO50), a lubricating oil, containing 1‐octyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([OMIm]PF6), an ionic liquid (IL), are investigated in this study. Friction tests on a universal micro‐tribometer under current stimulation show that ionic lubricating oil has an excellent lubrication performance and electrical responsiveness. By changing the current strength, ion content, and the load, the reasons behind the change in the coefficient of friction are investigated. Ion aggregation results in an increase in the viscosity of the lubricating oil film, which leads to an increase in the coefficient of friction. Moreover, the real‐time resistance value of the oil film is obtained through a self‐built voltage acquisition device. The mechanism of the electronic control of friction is verified by analyzing the influence of the change in ion distribution on the resistance of the oil film. There is a correlation between the resistance and viscosity of the oil film. The results of this study may be significant in guiding research on the intelligent control of friction under oil‐based lubrication.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Photoredox 1,1‐Dichloromethylation of Alkenes with Chloroform
Authors: Cheng Yingjie , Qu Zhonghua , Chen Shiru , Ji Xiaochen , Deng Guo‐Jun , Huang Huawen
Published: March 2022

A photoredox 1,1‐dichloromethylation of alkenes with the readily available bulk chemical chloroform was described, furnishing a variety of 1,1‐dichloroalkane products selectively. Furthermore, this transformation could proceed smoothly on gram‐scale, and the obtained products could transform into diverse γ‐lactam derivatives with simple treatment. Mechanistically, the single electron transfer (SET) with excited photocatalyst and subsequent deprotonation of triethylamine generates the key α‐aminoradical intermediate, which enables selective Cl‐atom transfer of chloroform. The specific selectivity, broad substrate scope, as well as the mild reaction conditions make this strategy especially attractive.

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Enhanced Versatility of Table‐Top X‐Rays from Van der Waals Structures
Authors: Huang Sunchao , Duan Ruihuan , Pramanik Nikhil , Boothroyd Chris , Liu Zheng , Wong Liang Jie
Published: March 2022

Van der Waals (vdW) materials have attracted much interest for their myriad unique electronic, mechanical, and thermal properties. In particular, they are promising candidates for monochromatic, table‐top X‐ray sources. This work reveals that the versatility of the table‐top vdW X‐ray source goes beyond what has been demonstrated so far. By introducing a tilt angle between the vdW structure and the incident electron beam, it is theoretically and experimentally shown that the accessible photon energy range is more than doubled. This allows for greater versatility in real‐time tuning of the vdW X‐ray source. Furthermore, this work shows that the accessible photon energy range is maximized by simultaneously controlling both the electron energy and the vdW structure tilt. These results will pave the way for highly tunable, compact X‐ray sources, with potential applications including hyperspectral X‐ray fluoroscopy and X‐ray quantum optics.
Farm‐level impacts of the CAP post‐2020 reform: A scenario‐based analysis
Authors: Petsakos Athanasios , Ciaian Pavel , Espinosa Maria , Perni Angel , Kremmydas Dimitrios
Published: March 2022

We analyze the farm‐level economic and environmental impacts of the post‐2020 reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) of the European Union, examining six scenarios constructed around the budget allocated to eco‐schemes and the stringency of enhanced conditionality. Results suggest that the CAP post‐2020 can improve environmental performance but at a cost for farms. Enhanced conditionality appears to play a greater role than eco‐schemes in delivering environmental improvements. The new CAP provides the Member States ample options to choose among different measures. The optimal policy mix will depend on the balancing of income support versus environmental performance that reflects policy priorities.
Retina‐Inspired Two‐Terminal Optoelectronic Neuromorphic Devices with Light‐Tunable Short‐Term Plasticity for Self‐Adjusting Sensing
Authors: Geng Xiaoying , Hu Lingxiang , Zhuge Fei , Wei Xianhua
Published: March 2022

In current optical imaging devices, complex peripheral circuits are required to obtain clear and true images, which leads to limited power and area efficiency. Inspired by the visual processing in retina, an optoelectronic neuromorphic device with short‐term plasticity (STP) can realize self‐adjustment of the visual system to real time in response to the external stimuli, including light controlled short‐term facilitation (STF) and short‐term depression (STD). Herein, an optoelectronic synaptic device based on a simple Au/ZnS/Pt structure is found to show both synaptic STD and STF under light stimulation. STD originates from photoexcited carriers trapped by defects in the ZnS film, whereas STF results from photocurrent rising due to trap filling via previous electrical stimulation. Moreover, the STP of the device exhibits excellent stability and repeatability. In addition, this optoelectronic device can be used to adjust the sharpness of the view according to different brightness levels through STD and STF. The realization of self‐adjustment through STP of the emerging optoelectronic neuromorphic device may pave the way for bionic systems facing complex environments.
Results and insights from a phase I clinical trial of Lomecel‐B for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Brody Mark , Agronin Marc , Herskowitz Brad J. , Bookheimer Susan Y. , Small Gary W. , Hitchinson Benjamin , Ramdas Kevin , Wishard Tyler , McInerney Katalina Fernández , Vellas Bruno , Sierra Felipe , Jiang Zhijie , Mcclain‐Moss Lisa , Perez Carmen , Fuquay Ana , Rodriguez Savannah , Hare Joshua M. , Oliva Anthony A. , Baumel Bernard
Published: March 2022

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that Lomecel‐B, an allogeneic medicinal signaling cell (MSC) therapeutic candidate for Alzheimer's disease (AD), is safe and potentially disease‐modifying via pleiotropic mechanisms of action.

Key Predictions

We prospectively tested the predictions that Lomecel‐B administration to mild AD patients is safe (primary endpoint) and would provide multiple exploratory indications of potential efficacy in clinical and biomarker domains (prespecified secondary/exploratory endpoints).

Strategy and Key Results

Mild AD patient received a single infusion of low‐ or high‐dose Lomecel‐B, or placebo, in a double‐blind, randomized, phase I trial. The primary safety endpoint was met. Fluid‐based and imaging biomarkers indicated significant improvement in the Lomecel‐B arms versus placebo. The low‐dose Lomecel‐B arm showed significant improvements versus placebo on neurocognitive and other assessments.

Interpretation

Our results support the safety of Lomecel‐B for AD, suggest clinical potential, and provide mechanistic insights. This early‐stage study provides important exploratory information for larger efficacy‐powered clinical trials.
Metal‐Corrole‐Based Porous Organic Polymers for Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction and Evolution Reactions
Authors: Lei Haitao , Zhang Qingxin , Liang Zuozhong , Guo Hongbo , Wang Yabo , Lv Haoyuan , Li Xialiang , Zhang Wei , Apfel Ulf‐Peter , Cao Rui
Published: March 2022

Integrating molecular catalysts into designed frameworks often enables improved catalysis. Compared with porphyrin‐based frameworks, metal‐corrole‐based frameworks have been rarely developed, although monomeric metal corroles are usually more efficient than porphyrin counterparts for the electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). We herein report on metal‐corrole‐based porous organic polymers (POPs) as ORR and OER electrocatalysts. M‐POPs (M=Mn, Fe, Co, Cu) were synthesized by coupling metal 10‐phenyl‐5,15‐(4‐iodophenyl)corrole with tetrakis(4‐ethynylphenyl)methane. Compared with metal corrole monomers, M‐POPs displayed significantly enhanced catalytic activity and stability. Co‐POP outperformed other M‐POPs by achieving four‐electron ORR with a half‐wave potential of 0.87 V vs. RHE and reaching 10 mA cm−2 OER current density at 340 mV overpotential. This work is unparalleled to develop and explore metal‐corrole‐based POPs as electrocatalysts.
Reaction Rate Acceleration of Cooperative Catalytic Systems: Metal Nanoparticles and Lewis Acids in Arene Hydrogenation
Authors: Miyamura Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Shū
Published: March 2022

Employing two distinct catalysts in one reaction medium synergistically is a powerful strategy for activating less reactive substrates. Although the approach has been well‐developed in homogeneous conditions, it remains challenging and rare in heterogeneous catalysis, especially under gas‐liquid‐solid multiphase reaction conditions. Here, we describe the development of cooperative and synergistic catalyst systems of heterogeneous Rh‐Pt bimetallic nanoparticle catalysts, Rh‐Pt/DMPSi‐Al2O3, and Sc(OTf)3 in the liquid phase for the hydrogenation of arenes under very mild conditions. Dramatic rate acceleration was achieved with cooperative activation. Remarkably, more challenging substrates that contained strong electron‐donating groups and sterically hindered substituents were smoothly hydrogenated. Mechanistic insights into the cooperative activation of an aromatic substrate by heterogeneous metal nanoparticles and a soluble Lewis acid was obtained by kinetic studies and by direct observation of 1H and 45Sc NMR spectra.
A novel description of the Vastus lateralis morphology of the Temminck's ground pangolin (Manis temminckii)
Authors: van Boom Kathryn Merle , Breed Dorothy , Hughes Alix , Blackhurst Dee , Kohn Tertius Abraham
Published: March 2022

The pangolin (Manidae family) is the world's most trafficked animal, yet very little is known about its physiology and metabolism primarily due to its inconspicuous and solitary nature. Skeletal muscle samples from the Vastus lateralis were collected postmortem from a single female Temminck's ground pangolin (Manis temminckii). Samples were analyzed for fiber type composition, fiber size and myosin heavy chain isoform content. The oxidative and glycolytic metabolic capacity was determined through citrate synthase, 3‐hydroxyacetyl co A dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, phosphofructokinase and glycogen phosphorylase enzyme activities. Lastly, antioxidant capacity was determined through superoxide dismutase and catalase enzyme activities, and the total antioxidant capacity. The pangolin metabolic profile was then compared to other endurance and nonendurance mammals, in which data were standardized relative to human endurance athletes in order to provide context. Slow twitch type I fibers, rich in mitochondria were the predominant fiber type within the pangolin indicating a reliance on oxidative derived energy from fats and carbohydrates. This suggests that the pangolin has a high endurance capability when compared to other wild animals and human endurance athletes. This is the first study to investigate the skeletal muscle physiology and metabolism of any pangolin species, in an attempt to further understand this endangered animal and aid with conservation efforts.
The salience of competing nonsocial objects reduces gaze toward social stimuli, but not the eyes, more in typically developing than autistic boys
Authors: Cai Xiao‐E , Le Jiao , Shou Xiao‐Jing , Wu‐Yun Gao‐Wa , Wang Xiao‐Xi , Han Song‐Ping , Han Ji‐Sheng , Kendrick Keith M. , Zhang Rong
Published: March 2022

Decreased attention to social information is considered an early emerging symptom of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), although the underlying causes remain controversial. Here we explored the impact of nonsocial object salience on reduced attention to social stimuli in male ASD compared with typically developing (TD) children. Correlations with blood concentrations of neuropeptides linked with social cognition were also investigated. Eye‐tracking was performed in 102 preschool‐aged boys (50 ASD, 52 TD) using a paradigm with social (faces) versus nonsocial (objects) stimuli presented in pairs in two conditions where nonsocial stimulus salience was varied. Basal oxytocin (OXT) and vasopressin concentrations were measured in blood. Compared with TD boys those with ASD viewed social stimuli less only when they were paired with low‐salience nonsocial objects. Additionally, boys with ASD spent less time than TD ones viewing facial features, particularly the eyes. In TD boys, OXT concentrations and cognitive development scores were positively associated with time spent viewing the eye region, whereas for boys with ASD associations with time spent viewing faces were negative. Reduced gaze toward social stimuli in ASD relative to TD individuals may therefore be influenced by how salient the paired nonsocial objects are for the latter. On the other hand, reduced interest in the eyes of faces in boys with ASD is not influenced by how salient competing nonsocial stimuli are. Basal OXT concentrations and cognitive development scores are predictive of time spent viewing social stimuli in TD boys (eyes) and those with ASD (faces) but in the opposite direction.

Lay Summary

Children with autism exhibit reduced attention to social paired with nonsocial stimuli compared to typically developing children. Using eye‐tracking we show this difference is due to typically developing rather than autistic boys being more influenced by how interesting competing nonsocial objects are. On the other hand, reduced time looking at the eyes in autistic relative to typically developing boys is unaffected by nonsocial object salience. Time spent viewing social stimuli is associated with cognitive development and blood levels of oxytocin.
A convenient platform for real‐time non‐contact thermal measurement and processing
Authors: Choi Hyosung , Soeriawidjaja Banyu Firdaus , Lee Sang Hak , Kwak Minseok
Published: March 2022

Temperature is one of crucial and integral parts of chemical experiments. Since the properties or shape of the material may change depending on the temperature, the device that measures it plays a vital role in an experiment. Such devices commonly used in experiments to this day are unable to perform temperature measurement and data processing simultaneously. Here, we present a low‐price, non‐contact convenient platform capable of solving both problems at the same time, with automatically set different measurement time intervals for each experiment, and shows processed data anywhere real‐time on the Internet. This device can operate within temperature range of −20 and 80 °C with a respectable error range of ±2.5 °C.
A high‐throughput biomimetic bone‐on‐a‐chip platform with artificial intelligence‐assisted image analysis for osteoporosis drug testing
Authors: Paek Kyurim , Kim Seulha , Tak Sungho , Kim Min Kyeong , Park Jubin , Chung Seok , Park Tai Hyun , Kim Jeong Ah
Published: March 2022

Although numerous organ‐on‐a‐chips have been developed, bone‐on‐a‐chip platforms have rarely been reported because of the high complexity of the bone microenvironment. With an increase in the elderly population, a high‐risk group for bone‐related diseases such as osteoporosis, it is essential to develop a precise bone‐mimicking model for efficient drug screening and accurate evaluation in preclinical studies. Here, we developed a high‐throughput biomimetic bone‐on‐a‐chip platform combined with an artificial intelligence (AI)‐based image analysis system. To recapitulate the key aspects of natural bone microenvironment, mouse osteocytes (IDG‐SW3) and osteoblasts (MC3T3‐E1) were cocultured within the osteoblast‐derived decellularized extracellular matrix (OB‐dECM) built in a well plate‐based three‐dimensional gel unit. This platform spatiotemporally and configurationally mimics the characteristics of the structural bone unit, known as the osteon. Combinations of native and bioactive ingredients obtained from the OB‐dECM and coculture of two types of bone cells synergistically enhanced osteogenic functions such as osteocyte differentiation and osteoblast maturation. This platform provides a uniform and transparent imaging window that facilitates the observation of cell–cell interactions and features high‐throughput bone units in a well plate that is compatible with a high‐content screening system, enabling fast and easy drug tests. The drug efficacy of anti‐SOST antibody, which is a newly developed osteoporosis drug for bone formation, was tested via β‐catenin translocation analysis, and the performance of the platform was evaluated using AI‐based deep learning analysis. This platform could be a cutting‐edge translational tool for bone‐related diseases and an efficient alternative to bone models for the development of promising drugs.
The five major autoimmune diseases increase the risk of cancer: epidemiological data from a large‐scale cohort study in China
Authors: Zhou Ziyue , Liu Huazhen , Yang Yiying , Zhou Jingya , Zhao Lidan , Chen Hua , Fei Yunyun , Zhang Wen , Li Mengtao , Zhao Yan , Zeng Xiaofeng , Zhang Fengchun , Yang Huaxia , Zhang Xuan
Published: March 2022

Background

Cancer incidence and mortality have received critical attention during the long‐term management of morbidities in patients with autoimmune diseases (AIDs). This study aimed to investigate and compare the risk of cancer associated with five major AIDs in a large‐scale Chinese cohort.

Methods

A total of 8,120 AID patients consecutively admitted to a national tertiary referral center in China were included and followed‐up for 38,726.55 patient‐years, including those with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Sjögren's syndrome (SS), systemic scleroderma (SSc), and idiopathic inflammatory myositis (IIM). Demographic data, cancer incidence, predilecting sites and cancer onset time were recorded and compared among the five AIDs.

Results

Four hundred and thirty (5.3%) patients developed cancer. Their median age was 57.5 years and AID duration was 79.8 months. The estimated total standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of cancer in AIDs patients was 3.37, with the highest SIR observed in IIM (4.31), followed by RA (3.99), SSc (3.77), SS (2.88) and SLE (2.58). The increased SIR of cancers in AID patients showed a female predominance (female vs. male: 3.59 vs. 2.77) and younger patient involvement (age <50 vs. ≥50 years: 4.88 vs. 3.04). Patients with SLE had increased SIRs for developing hematologic malignancies and solid tumors located in the urinary bladder, corpus uteri and cervix uteri. Patients with SS had a significantly high SIR for developing non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma. Within 3 years of IIM diagnosis, 74.6% of the patients developed cancer and they had a high risk of ovarian cancer. RA was associated with a wide distribution of scancers, including non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma, gynecologic, urinary tract, thyroid gland and lung cancers. SSc patients had increased SIRs for developing cervical uterine, lung, and breast cancers.

Conclusion

Patients with five major AIDs in China had an increased risk of developing cancer, with a predominance in women and younger patients, although cancer incidence, predilection sites and cancer onset time may vary greatly in each AID entity.
Lipase Catalysis in Mixed Micelles
Authors: Goswami Debajyoti
Published: March 2022

The catalytic performance of lipase, an interfacially active enzyme, depends on the reaction medium. Novel reaction media like mixed micelles affect lipase catalysis mostly by stabilizing the lipase structure and increasing the substrate solubilization. Nonionic surfactant addition in ionic micelles formed mixed micelles and increased lipase catalysis by lowering detrimental lipase‐ionic surfactant hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions. Nonionic/nonionic mixed micelles enhanced activity and enantiomeric selectivity of free lipase but reduced those for immobilized lipase. Nonconventional cationic/cationic, anionic/nonionic/ionic liquid, and substrate/nonionic mixed micelles also improved lipase catalysis. Lipase activity was high in bile salt/surfactant mixed micelles but was low in bile salt/phospholipid mixed micelle. Mixed micelles have advantages like improving lipase‐substrate interaction, increasing water nucleophilicity, sometimes greater emulsion stability, and reduced product inhibition. In mixed micelles, increasing the lipase concentration can overcome the problem regarding inaccessibility of insoluble substrates.
Using policy to build equitable Latinx transfer pathways
Authors: Felix Eric R. , Galan Carlos A. , Palomino Paulina P. , Cantu Laura
Published: March 2022

This article describes the change process at East Los Angeles College (ELAC) to address the unique barriers that Latinx students face in transferring to 4‐year institutions. Since 2014, California Community Colleges have had an unprecedented opportunity to target disparities in academic outcomes through the Student Equity Policy (SEP) and its requirement to examine inequity faced by minoritized groups, such as racial/ethnic students, in various academic areas like transfer and degree completion. Through the implementation of this policy, ELAC has made improvements to the conditions and experiences of Latinx students, resulting in improved Latinx transfer success. As scholar‐practitioners, the purpose of our study is to share the process that unfolded at ELAC. In doing so, we focus on understanding how: (a) ELAC developed and implemented these Latinx specific transfer initiatives, (b) the impact and results from these new efforts for Latinx students, and then (c) highlight takeaways for community college practitioners.
Improving transfer through changes in advising
Authors: Queen Ashleigh Everhardt
Published: March 2022

Community colleges represent a main pathway for students seeking to earn bachelor's degrees. This path allows students who may be unable to enter a 4‐year university to gain access to higher education, often at a decreased cost. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students are utilizing this pathway as state and federal government mandates call for increased numbers of STEM graduates. Concerning is the fact that many students intend to transfer and are unsuccessful in this process or in obtaining a degree post‐transfer. Academic advising, a common practice at all institutions of higher education, can be utilized to increase the connection the student feels to the institution and minimize the barriers they face in transitioning from one institution to another. This article provides recommendations from the Aspen Institute/Community College Research Center Transfer Playbook for institutions seeking to improve transfer outcomes
Efficient Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting from a Discrete Hybrid Bismuth Bromide Ferroelectric Templated by Phosphonium Cation
Authors: Deswal Swati , Panday Rishukumar , Naphade Dipti R. , Dixit Prashant , Praveenkumar Balu , Zaręba Jan K. , Anthopoulos Thomas D. , Ogale Satishchandra , Boomishankar Ramamoorthy
Published: March 2022

Bismuth containing hybrid molecular ferroelectrics are receiving tremendous attention in recent years owing to their stable and non‐toxic composition. However, these perovskite‐like structures are primarily limited to ammonium cations. Herein, we report a new phosphonium based discrete perovskite‐like hybrid ferroelectric with a formula [Me(Ph)3P]3[Bi2Br9] (MTPBB) and its mechanical energy harvesting capability. The Polarization‐Electric field (P‐E) measurements resulted in a well‐defined ferroelectric hysteresis loop with a remnant polarization value of 2.1 μC cm−2. Piezoresponse force microscopy experiments enabled visualization of the ferroelectric domain structure and evaluation of the piezoelectric strain coefficient (d33) for an MTPBB single crystal and thin film sample. Furthermore, flexible devices incorporating MTPBB in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix at various concentrations were fabricated and explored for their mechanical energy harvesting properties. The champion device with 20 wt % of MTPBB in PDMS rendered a maximum peak‐to‐peak open‐circuit voltage of 22.9 V and a maximum power density of 7 μW cm−2 at an optimal load of 4 MΩ. Moreover, the potential of MTPBB‐based devices in low power electronics was demonstrated by storing the harvested energy in various electrolytic capacitors.