bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolução das fontes eólicas e solar e o uso de inovações tecnológicas pela ANEEL para monitoramento
Authors: Orlandi Alex Gois , Junior Osmar Abílio de Carvalho , Guimarães Renato Fontes , Júnior Jayme Milanezi , Gomes Roberto Arnaldo Trancoso , De Carvalho Osmar Luiz Ferreira
Published: January 2025

Num mundo em que as economias dependem diretamente de energia para manter o crescimento e a qualidade de vida de seus habitantes, os países se preocupam cada vez mais com a sustentabilidade e uma expansão da matriz elétrica por meio de fontes renováveis. O objetivo deste estudo é apresentar uma visão da transformação da matriz elétrica do Brasil, destacando o incremento das fontes eólica e solar, e analisar como a atuação da agência reguladora do setor elétrico brasileiro está evoluindo para manter a fiscalização das novas usinas. Na metodologia de pesquisa, foram utilizadas informações do setor elétrico brasileiro e dados geoespaciais de livre acesso, além de informações sobre os subsídios governamentais que fomentam a ampliação dessas fontes. A análise dos dados de expansão da oferta e dos leilões de energia mostra que o Brasil já possui 84,21% de sua matriz elétrica composta por fontes renováveis e que há tendência de alta em função dos incrementos de usinas eólicas e solares. Os resultados evidenciam um crescimento exponencial da energia solar em relação à eólica entre 2011 e 2021, os efeitos dos subsídios governamentais e o uso de informações geoespaciais e inteligência artificial pela agência reguladora para manter as fiscalizações das novas usinas.
The Role of Self-Compassion in the Lived Experiences of Service Providers Working in Canadian Cancer Support Programs
Authors: Kiranda Karimah , Modi Unnati , Silva Danielle , Guerrero Cristina Alexandra , Lackner Tina
Published: January 2025

Working and providing cancer support services is both challenging and rewarding, yet the lived experiences of the personnel providing such services remain overlooked. It is vital to address the experiences of service providers to better understand the nature of their work and how it may impact their well-being. This paper explores the lived experiences of cancer support service providers, focusing on how they conceptualize and practice self-compassion in their workplace. A qualitative approach centred on phenomenological hermeneutics was utilized to collect in-depth interview data from service providers working in cancer support centres across southwestern Ontario, Canada. The research team used descriptive and narrative analysis to analyze the interview data and produced the following four themes: 1) acknowledging personal limits as a form of self-compassion; 2) organizational support; 3) emotional environment; and 4) prioritized self-care. Recommendations include more comprehensive support systems for service providers, especially if they may be experiencing secondary trauma or compassion fatigue. The findings gleaned from the service providers contribute valuable considerations for both the cancer care workplace and post-secondary institutions. While the findings provide real-life examples of effective support for service providers in the workplace, they also provide important considerations for post-secondary programming that include strategies for balancing empathetic service delivery with exercising self-compassion.
Bridging the Generational Divide: Soft Skills and Value Perceptions of Gen Z in the Workforce
Authors: Kraght Henrik , Brøndum Lars
Published: January 2025

This research paper examines the growing disparity in value perceptions between Generation Z (Gen Z) and downstream companies that are set to integrate this new cohort of professionals. Gen Z, sometimes referred to as "Zoomers," includes those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, predominantly the children of Generation X. Characterized by their digital fluency, entrepreneurial mindset, and desire for purpose-driven work, Gen Z presents both opportunities and challenges to traditional corporate structures. This study explores the underlying causes of the value perception gap between Gen Z and downstream companies, analyzing its impact on workplace productivity, collaboration, and employee retention.
Focusing on the technology and service sectors, which frequently recruit graduates from business and technology disciplines, this study employs a multi-method approach. It integrates quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews with downstream company representatives, and an in-depth case study of a large corporation. These methods provide a thorough analysis of the generational dynamics shaping workplace interactions. Furthermore, the research draws on international insights to present targeted recommendations for three key stakeholders: Companies, Gen Z professionals, and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
The findings reveal significant misalignments in expectations around workplace flexibility, leadership opportunities, and career progression. While Gen Z’s adaptability and digital proficiency are assets, their expectations for rapid advancement and autonomy often clash with the structured, performance-focused frameworks of many organizations. The study underscores the need for tailored talent management strategies, including flexible work arrangements, mentorship programs, and continuous learning opportunities that align with Gen Z’s unique needs.
[Abstract continued in PDF]
Enhancing Strategic Partnerships in Higher Education: Developing and Implementing a Predictive Model
Authors: Eftychiou Georgios
Published: January 2025

The Predictive Strategic-Fit Model (PSFM) represents a transformative approach to forging successful industry-academia collaborations. It offers higher education institutions, like Humber Polytechnic, a systematic, data-driven framework to assess potential partnerships by aligning institutional goals with industry capabilities. The model operates through a dual-sided analysis: the Demand Side, which focuses on value creation, revenue diversification, and systems leadership, and the Supply Side, which evaluates a partner’s attributes, such as financial health, relevance, and existing relationships. By combining Subjective Evaluative Judgments (SEJs) and objective data, the PSFM ensures a balanced, evidence-based approach to decision-making. The model's integration into a web application enhances accessibility and scalability, providing users with actionable insights through an intuitive interface. This digital platform is designed to evolve, incorporating future advancements in machine learning and data analysis to further optimize partnership evaluations. While the PSFM offers new opportunities for strategic alignment, it also supports long-term, multi-faceted collaborations by addressing the untapped potential within the vast amount of underutilized data available to institutions. The PSFM complements traditional methods of relationship-building, providing a structured way to prioritize and assess partnerships.
ESTUDO DA SOBREVIDA DE PACIENTES COM CÂNCER COLORRETAL APÓS SEGUIMENTO DE TRÊS ANOS.
Authors: Campos Frederico Fonseca , Scocuglia Renata Luiza de Medeiros Rodrigues
Published: January 2025

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor of the digestive system and the fourth leading cause of cancer in Brazil. Life expectancy for individuals with CRC is influenced by several variables, particularly the tumor stage. Surgery is the primary treatment method with curative potential. The study aimed to analyze survival rates and the incidence of anastomotic complications in patients undergoing surgery for CRC treatment, monitored between January 2007 and January 2013. A descriptive case series study was conducted, involving 171 individuals. CRC survival time was the dependent variable, while independent variables included age, gender, anatomical tumor location, tumor infiltration, and lymph node metastasis. The overall survival rates of CRC patients at 12, 24, and 36 months of follow-up were 83.21%, 76.56%, and 63.47%, respectively. The presence of lymph node involvement and the level of tumor infiltration were associated with unfavorable prognoses. The most frequent tumor sites were the upper rectum and sigmoid colon (43.75%), followed by the mid-rectum (18.75%) and lower rectum (18.75%). The most common postoperative complication was anastomotic dehiscence (6.43%). In conclusion, tumor infiltration of the intestinal mucosa and the number of positive lymph nodes had a negative impact on the life expectancy of CRC patients. Anastomotic fistula was identified as the primary postoperative complication.
EFEITO SINÉRGICO DO ÓLEO ESSENCIAL DE ALLIUM SATIVUM E ANTIBIÓTICOS CONVENCIONAIS COMO POTENCIAL ANTIMICROBIANO CONTRA CEPAS DE ACINETOBACTER BAUMANNII E STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS.
Authors: Macêdo Maria Fernanda Lima de , Silva Amanda Benigno , Costa Juliana Maria Batista , Cavalcanti Deborah Regina , Oliveira Samily Aquino de Sá , Rosa Danillo Sales , Costa Mateus Matiuzzi da , Nunes Xirley Pereira , Nascimento Jorge Messias do , Sá Maria da Conceição Aquino de
Published: January 2025

A Organização Mundial da Saúde prioriza a busca por novos tratamentos para bactérias resistentes, principalmente, Acinetobacter baumannii resistentes aos carbapenêmicos e Staphylococcus aureus resistentes à meticilina (MRSA). As infecções causadas por essas bactérias são difíceis de tratar, assim, têm-se buscado novas alternativas como a utilização de produtos naturais. Com isso, o Allium sativum, tem se destacado por suas propriedades antimicrobianas e capacidade anti-inflamatória. Com isso, objetivou-se avaliar o potencial antimicrobiano do óleo essencial de A. sativum, sozinho e combinado com antibióticos, frente a isolados de A. baumannii e S. aureus. Para isso, inicialmente, o óleo essencial foi produzido por meio de hidrodestilação do bulbo de A. sativum utilizando um aparelho de Clevenger. Foram usadas bactérias originárias de ambiente hospitalar, sendo dois isolados de A. baumannii, um isolado de S. aureus, e uma ATCC (American Type Culture Collection) de S. aureus (25923). Testou-se a viabilidade do óleo essencial e depois foi avaliada a sua atividade antimicrobiana in vitro e de antibióticos de uso tradicional por meio de microdiluição em caldo, a fim de determinar a concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) e concentração bactericida mínima (CBM). Em seguida, realizaram-se avaliações da atividade sinérgica entre o óleo essencial e os antibióticos por meio do método de checkerboard. A CIM/CBM do óleo essencial do A. sativum foi de 3.200 µg/mL para os isolados estudados. Em relação a CIM/CBM dos antibióticos o efeito bactericida foi em média de 62,5 µg/mL para Ampicilina, 250 µL/mL para a Oxacilina, para os isolados de A. baumannii e S. aureus. Para a ATCC 25923, houve sensibilidade à Oxacilina (250 µg/mL) e Ampicilina (62,5 µg/mL). Com a realização desse estudo, verificou-se o potencial antimicrobiano do óleo essencial de A. sativum interagindo com antibióticos convencionais.
Structure of Creativity: An Investigation on a Latent Structure of Thirteen Measures of Creativity
Authors: Toivainen Teemu , Shakeshaft Nicholas G. , Kovas Yulia
Published: January 2025

The assessment of creativity in education is important because it allows educators to recognize and nurture students’ creative potential. Many measures tap into Individual differences, such as cognitive tests; estimates of one’s own individual characteristics (self-reported creativity); and inventories of previous creative behaviours. Such measures can estimate creativity in general or in specifically defined domains (e.g., in science and art). However, previous research has indicated poor construct validity which indicates that inter-relationships between different measures are inconclusive. The present study investigated latent component structure among thirteen creativity measures (three cognitive tasks, two behavioural inventories and eight self-reported questionnaires) in a sample of 188 English speaking adults. The results suggested a multidimensional structure of creativity, comprising six components explaining 74% of the variance of individual differences in this construct. Measures of previous creative behaviours (creative activity and creative achievement measures) were not strongly associated with any general creativity measures (self-reported or cognitive tests); but were associated with self-reported domain-specific visual and verbal creativity. Furthermore, out of five self-reported creativity domains (scientific, social, visual, verbal and sports), only social creativity was associated with any general creativity measures; it was associated with two cognitive creativity measures. General creativity measures (cognitive tests and self-reports), as well as behavioural inventories, loaded on three separate components. The results support a view of creativity as a multidimensional construct which needs to be considered when making inferences based on performance in specific creativity measures.
Assessing the Quality of Teaching Through the Teacher's Key Competence Balance Circle
Authors: El-Hmoudova Dagmar
Published: January 2025

This study introduces the Teacher's Key Competence Balance Circle (TKCBC), a framework designed to evaluate teaching quality through eight key teacher competences, with particular emphasis on the newly conceptualized digital and cultural competence. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, which integrates direct interviews with a balancing circle assessment, the research aims to establish a comprehensive standard for evaluating teachers' effectiveness in critical areas: Key Competence for Learning, Key Communication Competence, Key Personal and Social Competence, Key Competence for Citizenship and Sustainability, Key Competence for Entrepreneurship and Work, Key Competence for Problem Solving, Key Cultural Competence, and Key Digital Competence. The findings highlight the imperative to transition from a rigid, prescriptive teaching model to a more dynamic and adaptive approach. This transition is essential for meeting the complex and evolving demands of contemporary education, particularly in the realms of digital and cultural competence. The study argues that enhancing educational quality requires a focus beyond traditional evaluative metrics, advocating for the development of a supportive, innovative pedagogical environment that fosters continuous professional growth (lifelong learning) and reflective practice. The TKCBC framework not only provides a robust tool for assessing teaching effectiveness but also underscores the critical importance of integrating digital and cultural competencies, aligning with the evolving needs of students and the broader educational landscape.
Social Theology in the Context of Modern Social Change: A Theological and Sociological Perspective
Authors: Saliareng Riandli
Published: January 2025

This paper delves into the complex relationship between theology and modern social change, particularly focusing on the responses of religious traditions, specifically Christianity, to evolving socio-cultural contexts. It begins by examining how technological advancements, demographic shifts, and globalization have reshaped religious practices and societal norms. The impact of these changes on religious institutions is significant, as they navigate the tensions between tradition and innovation. By employing sociological theories of change, such as those proposed by Ogburn and Davis, the paper highlights how institutions are adapting to material and immaterial elements of culture, responding to challenges like urbanization, aging populations, and shifts in family structures. It also explores the role of technology in both facilitating religious engagement and raising concerns over its potential to dilute spiritual experiences. Furthermore, the paper discusses key theological frameworks, including liberation theology and ecological theology, and their efforts to address social justice, inequality, and environmental crises.
The role of Christianity in promoting social justice, reconciliation, and environmental stewardship is emphasized as a vital response to modern social challenges. Theological perspectives are positioned as essential for navigating complex issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and migration. The article concludes that theology, particularly social theology, must continue to evolve to provide moral and ethical guidance, helping communities and institutions respond to the pressing challenges of modern society.
A Current Approach to The Problem of Businesses in Turkey Keeping Two Different Computerized Accounting Records, Official and Informal, For the Purpose of Avoiding Taxes
Authors: - Mehmet Ali YÜZBAŞIOĞLU
Published: January 2025

Keeping two different computerized accounting records, official and informal, has been increasingly met in the world of business, particularly in some developing countries such as Turkey. The authentic and counterfeit businesses, bureaucracies, politicians, employees, managers, accountants, tax inspectors, academics, and so on constitute the social network that deploys the parallel dual accounting records supported by its juridical and institutional mechanisms. The Turkish Revenue Administration approved e-Invoice, e-Ledger, and e-Dispatch applications, which promote the application of electronic accounting records and veritable businesses relying on the bureau. However, businesses still maintain dual accounting records, violating the Tax Procedure Law that mandates the e-Ledger format and other legal provisions. Businesses prefer to enjoy the informal dual accounting books, particularly against the VAT, for the purpose of minimizing taxes, working capital discounting, and access to the benefits of banking transactional discounting, fiscal amnesty, or facilitation sponsored by the informal atmosphere or ideal conditions. The problematic issue, therefore, can be formulated as follows: What is the reason for businesses in Turkey to keep official computerized accounting records while simultaneously maintaining informal ones using the same formal e-Ledger system? This essay provides a discussion of the possible theory-based answers to this basic question that lies beneath the issue mentioned above. For the purpose of addressing this issue, the study proceeds with a criticism of a set of theories and opinions derived from literature in the sociology of accounting, accounting and informality, and public economics. The problem of keeping two different computerized accounting records has great catalytic potential to draw the attention of bureaucrats, deputies, and other ordinary citizens to related problems in Turkey. Conducting qualified research in collaboration with tax authorities should take place, and its outcomes should be shared with the public and decision-makers in order to negate the wrong beliefs in Turkey.
Vinhas e vinhos da Borgonha: A Filosofia de Gaston Roupnel de Philip Whalen
Authors: Aguiar Emilly Tamires Gomes Pereira Silva de , Sousa João Wesley dos Santos , Silva Katarinne Gomes da , Moreira Maria Laura Barbosa , Duarte Maria Nazaré Noronha , Sousa Wellington Lucio , Rocha Gabriel Kafure da
Published: January 2025

The objective of this work is to demonstrate, through Philip Whalen, in his book "Burgundian Vines and Wines", how the culture and history of wine in Burgundy are deeply explored through Roupnel’s work. By highlighting the importance of the small villages and vineyards that form the heart of this region, he emphasizes how the terroir, climate, and limestone soil influence the quality of the wines. Roupnel’s aim was to describe the challenges faced by winegrowers, from planting to harvest, including the constant battle against mold and adverse weather conditions in Burgundy. The author also speaks of the spiritual and almost mystical connection between the winemaker and his land, stressing the hard work and dedication required to produce high-quality wines. Roupnel celebrates Burgundy wine as an expression of nature and human effort, a product that encapsulates the essence of its terroir and the soul of those who cultivate it. Roupnel argues that Burgundy wine is not just a beverage but a cultural manifestation, a symbol of the region's heritage and tradition. As a result, we can conclude that the book is a tribute to the beauty, complexity, and depth of Burgundian wines, showing how they reflect the unique character of Burgundy and its rich history.
Cele prewencyjnej kontroli koncentracji
Authors:   Katedra Ekonomii Biznesu, Kryśkiewicz Łukasz ,   Szkoła Główna Handlowa w Warszawie
Published: January 2025

Artykuł prezentuje wybrane aspekty z zakresu prewencyjnej kontroli koncentracji przedsiębiorstw. Cele i odmienny charakter tej kontroli (od zazwyczaj stosowanej wobec przedsiębiorców kontroli następczej) są szczególnie interesujące i ważne z punktu widzenia ochrony konkurencji. Dlatego też w artykule omówione zostały zagadnienia dotyczące konkurencyjności przedsiębiorstw i wybranych aspektów ich koncentracji. Przeanalizowano także cele prawa antymonopolowego. W ostatniej części zawarte zostały uwagi dotyczące istoty, celów i skutków prewencyjnej kontroli koncentracji przedsiębiorstw.
Ocena przesłanki istotności ograniczenia konkurencji w kontekście definiowania rynków właściwych w orzecznictwie dotyczącym kontroli koncentracji przedsiębiorców
Authors:   Wyższa Szkoła Menedżerska w Warszawie, Bychowska Monika
Published: January 2025

Kontrola koncentracji jest jedną z kompetencji Prezesa UOKiK. Wykonywanie tej kompetencji ma na celu niedopuszczenie do ograniczenia konkurencji wskutek strukturalnych zachowań przedsiębiorców. Przesłanką, która jest badana w procesie orzekania w sprawach dotyczących kontroli koncentracji, to istotne ograniczenie konkurencji. Nie istnieją jednolite testy, które pozwalałyby na jednoznaczne przesądzenie o spełnieniu tej przesłanki. Istotne ograniczenie konkurencji jest każdorazowo analizowane w indywidualnych stanach faktycznych koncentracji.
Conceptos para el estudio del agro latinoamericano: campesinos y agricultores familiares
Authors: Gómez-Pellón Eloy
Published: January 2025

The vast agricultural landscape of Latin America is home to more than 17 million agricultural enterprises, all sharing a common characteristic: family-based social organization of labor. These production units span a spectrum from subsistence peasant agriculture to entrepreneurial family farming, with an intermediate type often referred to as transitional family farming. Today, the term family farmers is generally used to describe the social actors within this typology, gradually replacing the older term peasants, although the latter remains relevant in certain contexts. This article explores the reasons behind the gradual shift from the term peasantry to family farming and to assess the theoretical and practical implications of this shift in the Latin American context. The methodology involves an analysis and comparison of the concept of the peasantry as understood by various historical and ideological schools: agrarian scholars, Russian populists, Russian anarchists (e.g., Kropotkin), Marxists, reformist Marxists (e.g., Luxemburg, Bukharin), and social agronomists (e.g., Bulgakov, Chayanov), who represent the old tradition of peasant studies. It also reviews the contributions of the new American tradition in peasant studies (e.g., Kroeber, Redfield) and examines the relevant literature on Latin American family farming (e.g., Schejtman, Maletta, Schneider). The study concludes by underscoring the consolidation of the concept of family farming and its significance for policy agendas at both governmental and supranational levels. Family farming plays a crucial role in surplus production, food security, environmental sustainability, and rural employment generation in Latin America, making it an essential area for continued attention and support.
Mapping patterns of thought onto brain activity during movie-watching
Authors: Wallace Raven Star , Mckeown Bronte , Goodall-Halliwell Ian , Chitiz Louis , Forest Philippe , Karapanagiotidis Theodoros , Mulholland Bridget , Turnbull Adam , Vanderwal Tamara , Hardikar Samyogita , Gonzalez Alam Tirso RJ , Bernhardt Boris C , Wang Hao-Ting , Strawson Will , Milham Michael , Xu Ting , Margulies Daniel S , Poerio Giulia L , Jefferies Elizabeth , Skipper Jeremy I , Wammes Jeffrey D , Leech Robert , Smallwood Jonathan
Published: January 2025

Movie-watching is a central aspect of our lives and an important paradigm for understanding the brain mechanisms behind cognition as it occurs in daily life. Contemporary views of ongoing thought argue that the ability to make sense of events in the ‘here and now’ depend on the neural processing of incoming sensory information by auditory and visual cortex, which are kept in check by systems in association cortex. However, we currently lack an understanding of how patterns of ongoing thoughts map onto the different brain systems when we watch a film, partly because methods of sampling experience disrupt the dynamics of brain activity and the experience of movie-watching. Our study established a novel method for mapping thought patterns onto the brain activity that occurs at different moments of a film, which does not disrupt the time course of brain activity or the movie-watching experience. We found moments when experience sampling highlighted engagement with multi-sensory features of the film or highlighted thoughts with episodic features, regions of sensory cortex were more active and subsequent memory for events in the movie was better—on the other hand, periods of intrusive distraction emerged when activity in regions of association cortex within the frontoparietal system was reduced. These results highlight the critical role sensory systems play in the multi-modal experience of movie-watching and provide evidence for the role of association cortex in reducing distraction when we watch films.
Abortion Clinics Are Moving From States With Bans to Those Without, Raising Questions About Whether Bans Can Be Enforced Across State Lines
Authors: Rubin Rita
Published: June 2023

This Medical News feature discusses the flight of clinics from states with abortion bans to those without them.
Medicare Beneficiaries’ Perspectives on the Quality of Hospital Care and Their Implications for Value-Based Payment
Authors: Trenaman Logan , Harrison Mark , Hoch Jeffrey S.
Published: June 2023

Importance

Medicare’s Hospital Value-Based Purchasing (HVBP) program adjusts hospital payments according to performance on 4 equally weighted quality domains: clinical outcomes, safety, patient experience, and efficiency. The assumption that performance on each domain is equally important may not reflect the preferences of Medicare beneficiaries.

Objective

To estimate the relative importance (ie, weight) of the 4 quality domains in the HVBP program from the perspective of Medicare beneficiaries and the impact of using beneficiary value weights on incentive payments for hospitals enrolled in fiscal year 2019.

Design, Setting, and Participants

An online survey was conducted in March 2022. A nationally representative sample of Medicare beneficiaries was recruited through Ipsos KnowledgePanel. Value weights were estimated using a discrete choice experiment that asked respondents to choose between 2 hospitals and indicate which they preferred. Hospitals were described using 6 attributes, including (1) clinical outcomes, (2) patient experience, (3) safety, (4) Medicare spending per patient, (5) distance, and (6) out-of-pocket cost. Data analysis was performed from April to November 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

An effects-coded mixed logit regression model was used to estimate the relative importance of quality domains. HVBP program performance was linked to Medicare payment data in the Medicare Inpatient Hospitals by Provider and Service data set and hospital characteristics from the American Hospital Association Annual Survey data set, and the estimated impact of using beneficiary value weights on hospital payments was estimated.

Results

A total of 1025 Medicare beneficiaries (518 women [51%]; 879 individuals [86%] aged ≥65 years; 717 White individuals [70%]) responded to the survey. A hospital’s performance on clinical outcomes was most highly valued by beneficiaries (49%), followed by safety (22%), patient experience (21%), and efficiency (8%). Nearly twice as many hospitals would see a payment reduction when using beneficiary value weights than would see an increase (1830 vs 922 hospitals); however, the average net decrease was smaller (mean [SD], −$46 978 [$71 211]; median [IQR], −$24 628 [−$53 507 to −$9562]) than the comparable increase (mean [SD], $93 243 [$190 654]; median [IQR], $35 358 [$9906 to $97 348]). Hospitals seeing a net reduction with beneficiary value weights were more likely to be smaller, lower volume, nonteaching, and non–safety-net hospitals located in more deprived areas that served less complex patients.

Conclusions and Relevance

This survey study of Medicare beneficiaries found that current HVBP program value weights do not reflect beneficiary preferences, suggesting that the use of beneficiary value weights may exacerbate disparities by rewarding larger, high-volume hospitals.
Association of Primary Care Physicians’ Ambulatory Full-time Equivalencies With Time in the Electronic Health Record
Authors: Micek Mark A. , Rule Adam , Baltus Jeffrey J. , Arndt Brian
Published: June 2023

This cross-sectional study examines whether primary care physicians (PCPs) in the clinic part-time have reduced electronic health record (EHR) time commensurate with their clinical hours.
Effectiveness of a Lifestyle Intervention for People With a Severe Mental Illness in Dutch Outpatient Mental Health Care
Authors: Walburg Florine Sanna , van Meijel Berno , Hoekstra Trynke , Kol Jelle , Pape Laura Michelle , de Joode Johanna Willemina , van Tulder Maurits , Adriaanse Marcel
Published: June 2023

Importance

People with a severe mental illness (SMI) have a life expectancy reduced by 10 to 20 years compared with the general population, primarily attributable to cardiometabolic disorders. Lifestyle interventions for people with SMI can improve health and reduce cardiometabolic risk.

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of a group-based lifestyle intervention among people with SMI in outpatient treatment settings compared with treatment as usual (TAU).

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Severe Mental Illness Lifestyle Evaluation (SMILE) study is a pragmatic cluster randomized clinical trial performed in 8 mental health care centers with 21 flexible assertive community treatment teams in the Netherlands. Inclusion criteria were SMI, age of 18 years or older, and body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) of 27 or greater. Data were collected from January 2018 to February 2020, and data were analyzed from September 2020 to February 2023.

Interventions

Weekly 2-hour group sessions for 6 months followed by monthly 2-hour group sessions for another 6 months, delivered by trained mental health care workers. The intervention targeted overall lifestyle changes, emphasizing establishing a healthy diet and promoting physical activity. TAU (control) did not include structured interventions or advice on lifestyle.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Crude and adjusted linear mixed models and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. The main outcome was body weight change. Secondary outcomes included changes in body mass index, blood pressure, lipid profiles, fasting glucose level, quality of life, self-management ability, and lifestyle behaviors (physical activity and health, mental health, nutrition, and sleep).

Results

The study population included 11 lifestyle intervention teams (126 participants) and 10 TAU teams (98 participants). Of 224 included patients, 137 (61.2%) were female, and the mean (SD) age was 47.6 (11.1) years. From baseline to 12 months, participants in the lifestyle intervention group lost 3.3 kg (95% CI, −6.2 to −0.4) more than those in the control group. In the lifestyle intervention group, people with high attendance rates lost more weight than participants with medium and low rates (mean [SD] weight loss: high, −4.9 [8.1] kg; medium, −0.2 [7.8] kg; low, 0.8 [8.3] kg). Only small or no changes were found for secondary outcomes.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this trial, the lifestyle intervention significantly reduced weight from baseline to 12 months in overweight and obese adults with SMI. Tailoring lifestyle interventions and increasing attendance rates might be beneficial for people with SMI.

Trial Registration

Netherlands Trial Register Identifier: NTR6837
Arabidopsis mutants lacking DLDG1 and non‐photochemical quenching‐related proteins reveal the regulatory role of DLDG1 in chloroplast pH homeostasis
Authors: Suzuki Kasane , Masuda Shinji
Published: June 2023

The control of pH in chloroplasts is important to regulate photosynthesis, although details of the precise regulatory mechanisms of H+ homeostasis in chloroplasts are not fully understood. We recently found that the cyanobacterial PxcA homolog DLDG1 is involved in plastidial pH control. PxcA and DLDG1 have been thought to control light‐dependent H+ extrusion across the cyanobacterial cytoplasmic and chloroplast envelope membranes, respectively. To investigate DLDG1‐dependent pH control in chloroplasts, we crossed the dldg1 mutant with various mutants lacking known non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ)‐related proteins, such as fluctuating‐light acclimation protein 1 (FLAP1), PsbS/NPQ4, and proton gradient regulation 5 (PGR5). Phenotypes of these double mutants revealed that PsbS works upstream of DLDG1, PGR5 affects NPQ independently from DLDG1, and the ΔpH regulation by FLAP1 and DLDG1 are independent of each other.
Expression of cancer–testis antigens in the immune microenvironment of non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Hikmet Feria , Rassy Marc , Backman Max , Méar Loren , Mattsson Johanna Sofia Margareta , Djureinovic Dijana , Botling Johan , Brunnström Hans , Micke Patrick , Lindskog Cecilia
Published: June 2023

The antigenic repertoire of tumors is critical for successful anti‐cancer immune response and the efficacy of immunotherapy. Cancer–testis antigens (CTAs) are targets of humoral and cellular immune reactions. We aimed to characterize CTA expression in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in the context of the immune microenvironment. Of 90 CTAs validated by RNA sequencing, eight CTAs (DPEP3, EZHIP, MAGEA4, MAGEB2, MAGEC2, PAGE1, PRAME, and TKTL1) were selected for immunohistochemical profiling in cancer tissues from 328 NSCLC patients. CTA expression was compared with immune cell densities in the tumor environment and with genomic, transcriptomic, and clinical data. Most NSCLC cases (79%) expressed at least one of the analyzed CTAs, and CTA protein expression correlated generally with RNA expression. CTA profiles were associated with immune profiles: high MAGEA4 expression was related to M2 macrophages (CD163) and regulatory T cells (FOXP3), low MAGEA4 was associated with T cells (CD3), and high EZHIP was associated with plasma cell infiltration (adj. P‐value < 0.05). None of the CTAs correlated with clinical outcomes. The current study provides a comprehensive evaluation of CTAs and suggests that their association with immune cells may indicate in situ immunogenic effects. The findings support the rationale to harness CTAs as targets for immunotherapy.
Brain imaging signatures in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Correlation with peripheral motor degeneration
Authors: Hsueh Sung‐Ju , Chao Chi‐Chao , Chen Ta‐Fu , Chen Ya‐Fang , Hsueh Hsueh‐Wen , Tsai Li‐Kai , Wu Wen‐Chau , Hsieh Sung‐Tsang
Published: June 2023

Objective

This study aimed to explore the clinical significance of brain imaging signatures in the context of clinical neurological deficits in association with upper and lower motor neuron degeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Methods

We performed brain MRI examinations to quantitatively evaluate (1) gray matter volume and (2) white matter tract fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (AD), radial diffusivity (RD), and mean diffusivity (MD). Image‐derived indices were correlated with (1) global neurological deficits of MRC muscle strength sum score, revised amyotrophic lateral sclerosis functional rating scale (ALSFRS‐R), and forced vital capacity (FVC), and (2) focal scores of University of Pennsylvania Upper motor neuron score (Penn score) and the summation of compound muscle action potential Z scores (CMAP Z sum score).

Results

There were 39 ALS patients and 32 control subjects matched for age and gender. Compared to controls, ALS patients had a lower gray matter volume in the precentral gyrus of the primary motor cortex, which was correlated with FA of corticofugal tracts. The gray matter volume of the precentral gyrus was correlated with FVC, MRC sum score, and CMAP Z sum score, while the FA of the corticospinal tract was linearly associated with CMAP Z sum score and Penn score on multivariate linear regression model.

Interpretation

This study indicated that clinical assessment of muscle strength and routine measurements on nerve conduction studies provided surrogate markers of brain structural changes for ALS. Furthermore, these findings suggested parallel involvement of both upper and lower motor neurons in ALS.
Adaptive decentralized prescribed performance control for a class of large‐scale stochastic nonlinear systems subject to input saturation and full state constraints
Authors: Li Na , Du Yang , Wang Dong‐Mei , Zhu Shan‐Liang , Han Yu‐Qun
Published: June 2023

This paper focuses on an adaptive decentralized prescribed performance control problem for a class of large‐scale stochastic nonlinear systems with asymmetric input saturation and full state constraints. Firstly, the obstacle of input saturation is overcome by introducing the Gaussian error functions. Secondly, the transient performance of the system output is realized by introducing the asymmetric error transfer functions. Thirdly, the full state constraints are considered in the backstepping control process, and the boundary of state constraints is ensured by constructing barrier Lyapunov functions. Then, the multidimensional Taylor network is employed to approximate the unknown nonlinearity, and an adaptive decentralized controller is designed. Finally, it is shown that the proposed control strategy can ensure that the closed‐loop system is semi‐global ultimately uniformly bounded in probability, and the tracking error of the system can be kept within an adjustable neighborhood of the origin. Two simulation examples are provided to illustrate the feasibility of the proposed control strategy.
Bio‐Metamaterials for Mechano‐Regulation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Munding Natalie , Fladung Magdalena , Chen Yi , Hippler Marc , Ho Anthony D. , Wegener Martin , Bastmeyer Martin , Tanaka Motomu
Published: June 2023

Cell behaviors significantly depend on the elastic properties of the microenvironments, which are distinct from commonly used polymer‐based substrates. Artificial elastic materials called metamaterials offer large freedom to adjust their effective elastic properties as experienced by cells, provided (i) the metamaterial unit cell is sufficiently small compared to the biological cell size and (ii) the metamaterial is sufficiently soft to deform by the active cell contraction. Thus, metamaterials targeting bio‐applications (bio‐metamaterials) appear as a promising path toward the mechanical control of stem cells. Herein, human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are cultured on three different types of planar periodic elastic metamaterials. To fulfill the above two key requirements, microstructured bio‐metamaterials have been designed and manufactured based on a silicon elastomer‐like photoresist and two‐photon laser printing. In addition to the conventional morphometric and immunocytochemical analysis, the traction force that hMSCs exert on metamaterials are inferred by converting the measured displacement‐vector fields into force‐vector fields. The differential responses of hMSCs, both on the cellular level and the sub‐cellular level, correlate with the calculated effective elastic properties of the bio‐metamaterials, suggesting the potential of bio‐metamaterials toward mechanical regulation of cell behaviors by the arrangement of unit cells.
Fluorinated Ni‐O‐C Heterogeneous Catalyst for Efficient Urea‐Assisted Hydrogen Production
Authors: Xu Xuefei , Ullah Habib , Humayun Muhammad , Li Linfeng , Zhang Xia , Bououdina Mohamed , Debecker Damien P. , Huo Kaifu , Wang Deli , Wang Chundong
Published: June 2023

Constructing multiple heterogeneous structures allows for improving the electrocatalytic activity of NiO by incorporating multiple active sites. Unfortunately, the poor conductivity of NiO makes efficient charge transfer within the heterogeneous structures difficult, thereby inhibiting the improvement of its intrinsic activity. Herein, F‐doped NiO/Ni@C heterogeneous catalyst (F‐NiO/Ni@C) is fabricated via a new organic‐inorganic hybrid approach, showing both advanced hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and urea oxidation reaction (UOR) activity. The targeted F‐doping increases electron delocalization, and facilitates electron transfer from Ni to NiO at the nano‐interfaces. This interphase synergy provides ready‐to‐use F‐NiO active sites, allowing F‐NiO/Ni@C to achieve optimum H* adsorption Gibbs free energy for HER and a lower energy barrier for UOR. As a result, the as‐configured F‐NiO/Ni@C || F‐NiO/Ni@C cell requires an ultra‐low cell voltage of 1.37 V to achieve 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline media (with 0.3 M urea), outperforming the state‐of‐the‐art benchmark Pt/C|| RuO2 cell (1.45 V). This study reveals the positive impact of anion doping on interphase synergy and provides useful guidelines for designing monometallic catalysts for UOR as well as hydrogen generation.
Surface Functional Modification by Ti3C2Tx MXene on PLLA Nanofibers for Optimizing Neural Stem Cell Engineering
Authors: Zhu Yi‐Dan , Ma Xi‐Ying , Li Lin‐Peng , Yang Quan‐Jun , Jin Fei , Chen Zheng‐Nong , Wu Cui‐Ping , Shi Hai‐Bo , Feng Zhang‐Qi , Yin Shan‐Kai , Li Chun‐Yan
Published: June 2023

Optimizing cell substrates by surface modification of neural stem cells (NSCs), for efficient and oriented neurogenesis, represents a promising strategy for treating neurological diseases. However, developing substrates with the advanced surface functionality, conductivity, and biocompatibility required for practical application is still challenging. Here, Ti3C2Tx MXene is introduced as a coating nanomaterial for aligned poly(l‐lactide) (PLLA) nanofibers (M‐ANF) to enhance NSC neurogenesis and simultaneously tailor the cell growth direction. Ti3C2Tx MXene treatment provides a superior conductivity substrate with a surface rich in functional groups, hydrophilicity, and roughness, which can provide biochemical and physical cues to support NSC adhesion and proliferation. Moreover, Ti3C2Tx MXene coating significantly promotes NSC differentiation into both neurons and astrocytes. Interestingly, Ti3C2Tx MXene acts synergistically with the alignment of nanofibers to promote the growth of neurites, indicating enhanced maturation of these neurons. RNA sequencing analysis further reveals the molecular mechanism by which Ti3C2Tx MXene modulates the fate of NSCs. Notably, surface modification by Ti3C2Tx MXene mitigates the in vivo foreign body response to implanted PLLA nanofibers. This study confirms that Ti3C2Tx MXene provides multiple advantages for decorating the aligned PLLA nanofibers to cooperatively improve neural regeneration.
Plasmonic Coupling on an Optical Microfiber Surface: Enabling Single‐Molecule and Noninvasive Dopamine Detection
Authors: Huang Yunyun , Chen Pengwei , Zhou Luyan , Zheng Jiaying , Wu Haotian , Liang Jiaxuan , Xiao Aoxiang , Li Jie , Guan Bai‐Ou
Published: June 2023

Optical fibers can be effective biosensors when employed in early‐stage diagnostic point‐of‐care devices as they can avoid interference from molecules with similar redox potentials. Nevertheless, their sensitivity needs to be improved for real‐world applications, especially for small‐molecule detection. This work demonstrates an optical microfiber biosensor for dopamine (DA) detection based on the DA‐binding‐induced aptamer conformational transitions that occur at plasmonic coupling sites on a double‐amplified nanointerface. The sensor exhibits ultrahigh sensitivity when detecting DA molecules at the single‐molecule level; additionally, this work provides an approach for overcoming optical device sensitivity limits, further extending optical fiber single‐molecule detection to a small molecule range (e.g., DA and metal ions). The selective energy enhancement and signal amplification at the binding sites effectively avoid nonspecific amplification of the whole fiber surface which may lead to false‐positive results. The sensor can detect single‐molecule DA signals in body‐fluids. It can detect the released extracellular DA levels and monitor the DA oxidation process. An appropriate aptamer replacement allows the sensor to be used for the detection of other target small molecules and ions at the single‐molecule level. This technology offers alternative opportunities for developing noninvasive early‐stage diagnostic point‐of‐care devices and flexible single‐molecule detection techniques in theoretical research.
Fluorinated Substrates as Michael Acceptors Towards Fine Chemicals
Authors: Huang Xin , Besset Tatiana , Jubault Philippe , Couve‐Bonnaire Samuel
Published: June 2023

Michael addition reaction, known since the 19th century, appeared as a relevant method with a great potential to design new organofluorinated fine chemicals and enlarged their structural diversity. In the Michael addition reaction for the synthesis of organofluorine compounds, the fluorinated blocks can be both used as the Michael donors and acceptors, but the latter is relatively rare. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the use of fluorinated substrates as Michael acceptors in Michael reactions.
Real‐Time Monitoring of Multitarget Antimicrobial Mechanisms of Peptoids Using Label‐Free Imaging with Optical Diffraction Tomography
Authors: Kim Minsang , Cheon Yeongmi , Shin Dongmin , Choi Jieun , Nielsen Josefine Eilsø , Jeong Myeong Seon , Nam Ho Yeon , Kim Sung‐Hak , Lund Reidar , Jenssen Håvard , Barron Annelise E. , Lee Seongsoo , Seo Jiwon
Published: June 2023

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are promising therapeutics in the fight against multidrug‐resistant bacteria. As a mimic of AMPs, peptoids with N‐substituted glycine backbone have been utilized for antimicrobials with resistance against proteolytic degradation. Antimicrobial peptoids are known to kill bacteria by membrane disruption; however, the nonspecific aggregation of intracellular contents is also suggested as an important bactericidal mechanism. Here,structure‐activity relationship (SAR) of a library of indole side chain‐containing peptoids resulting in peptoid 29 as a hit compound is investigated. Then, quantitative morphological analyses of live bacteria treated with AMPs and peptoid 29 in a label‐free manner using optical diffraction tomography (ODT) are performed. It is unambiguously demonstrated that both membrane disruption and intracellular biomass flocculation are primary mechanisms of bacterial killing by monitoring real‐time morphological changes of bacteria. These multitarget mechanisms and rapid action can be a merit for the discovery of a resistance‐breaking novel antibiotic drug.