bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of mobile learning applications as an innovative method for the teaching of biochemistry
Authors: Abdelazim Aaser M. , Gaber Dalia A. , Adam Khalid M. , El‐Ashkar Ayman M. , Abdelmalak Hany W.
Published: August 2023

Background

Traditional teaching methods of biochemistry provide effective tools for knowledge transmission, but are considered less engaging with students. Smartphone applications may provide suitable alternatives to compensate for the shortcomings of traditional teaching methods.

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of smartphone applications as a complementary method for learning biochemistry.

Methodology

A total of 32 students, from the College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, Saudi Arabia, were recruited. Students used available mobile applications, and their performance was monitored through assignments, presentations, practical evaluations, and pre‐ and post‐tests. A self‐administered structured questionnaire was used to survey the students' perceptions. It was validated by students enrolled at the College of Applied Medical Science, interns, and medical educators. It was checked for item appropriateness and comprehensiveness using face and content validity.

Results

Around 75% of the students found the mobile applications useful in learning biochemistry, 50% believed that they were easy to use and 100% believed that the breadth of the knowledge presented by these applications was comprehensive. The pedagogical effect of the use of mobile applications in learning biochemistry showed statistically significant differences in student performances post‐use and pre‐use of mobile applications with P values of 0.000, 0.028, 0.023, and 0.000 for tests, assignments, practical evaluation, and presentations, respectively.

Conclusion

Students have a positive perception of the use of mobile applications, as it has significantly improved their academic performance in biochemistry.
Extraction of Functional Compounds from Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) by Deep Eutectic Solvents at Different Properties
Authors: Can Gerçek Yusuf , Kutlu Naciye , Çelik Saffet , Gıdık Betül , Bayram Sinan , Bayram Nesrin Ecem
Published: August 2023

In this study, it was aimed to examine the capacity of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) with different contents to extract bioactive compounds from tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) plant. For this reason, the total phenolic‐flavonoid content, total proanthocyanidin content and antioxidant/antimicrobial activities of the prepared DES extracts were investigated, as well as the individual phenolic and individual amino acid profiles. According to the results, DES10 had the highest efficiency in terms of its capacity to extract individual phenolics (approximately 59 mg/100 g) and individual amino acids (approximately 2500 mg/kg), and also gave a higher yield compared to ethanol (approximately 44 mg/100 g for individual phenolics and about 19810 mg/kg for individual amino acids) and methanol (approximately 58 mg/100 g for individual phenolics and approximately 21430 mg/kg for individual amino acids). However, the total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and antioxidant activity values of DES extracts were determined between 59.09–77.50 mg GAE/100 g, 28.68–45.55 mg GAE/100 g and 42.96–146.86 mg TE/100 g, respectively. Therefore, it can be recommended to use these green solvents, which are known as environmentally friendly, as an alternative to organic solvents in the process of preparing extracts of this important medicinal plant in different areas.
Potentially significant amounts of sulfate‐S found in phosphorus fertilizers
Authors: Camberato J. J. , Li P. , Nielsen R. L.
Published: August 2023

Core Ideas

Phosphorus fertilizers contain sulfate‐sulfur (SO4‐S).

SO4‐S concentration decreased in the order monoammonium phosphate > diammonium phosphate > triple superphosphate.

Liquid ammonium polyphosphate fertilizer contained less SO4‐S than granular P sources.

Sulfur applied in granular P fertilizers in some situations can be as much as half of grain S removal.

Sulfur applied in P fertilizers should be considered in crop S fertilization needs and cycling in the environment.
Organization of the epileptogenic zone and signal analysis at seizure onset in patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy due to focal cortical dysplasia with mTOR pathway gene mutations—An SEEG study
Authors: Oane Irina , Barborica Andrei , Daneasa Andrei , Maliia Mihai Dragos , Ciurea Jean , Stoica Sergiu , Dabu Aurelia , Bratu Flavius , Lentoiu Camelia , Mindruta Ioana
Published: August 2023

Epilepsy surgery in genetic drug‐resistant epilepsy is a debated subject as more histological and molecular data are available. We retrospectively collected data from focal drug‐resistant epilepsy patients that underwent stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) invasive recordings. Patients with nonlesional brain imaging or in whom a first epilepsy surgery failed to control seizures were selected. We computed and displayed the intracranial ictal onset activity pattern on structural imaging. Patients underwent epilepsy gene panel testing, next generation sequencing—NGS. Of 113 patients, 13 underwent genetic testing, and in 6 patients, a mechanistic target of rapamycin pathway gene germline mutation (mTOR) was identified. Brain imaging was nonlesional except for one patient in whom two abnormalities suggestive of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) were found. Patients underwent tailored brain surgery based on SEEG data, tissue analysis revealed FCD and postsurgical outcome was favorable. Our findings are similar to previous case series suggesting that epilepsy surgery can be a treatment option in patients with mTOR pathway mutation. In patients with mTOR pathway mutation, the postsurgical outcome is favorable if complete resection of the epileptogenic zone is performed. Electrophysiological seizure onset patterns in FCDs associated with mTOR pathway mutations display low‐voltage fast activity as previously described.
Constructal design of vertical multiscale triangular fins in natural convection
Authors: Mustafa Ahmed Waheed , Hasan Hala Salman , Khlaif Hadeel Hamid
Published: August 2023

Constructal design of vertical multiscale triangular fins in natural convection is investigated in this paper. The design consists of two parts. The first part is for single‐scale triangular fins. The objective in the first design is to reach to the highest heat transfer density from the fins for three fin angles (15°, 30°, and 45°). The single‐scale fins are placed in a horizontal array and considered as isothermal fins. The degrees of freedom are the fin angle, and the fin‐to‐fin spacing. The constraint is the fin height. The second part is for multiscale fins where small fins are placed between the large fins which are optimized in the first part. In the second part, the angles of the large and small scales fins are kept constant at (15°). The optimal fin‐to‐fin spacing which is obtained in the first part is considered a constraint in the second part. The Rayleigh numbers in this design are (Ra = 103, 104, and 105). The two‐dimensional mass, momentum, and energy equations for natural convection are solved with the finite volume method. The results show that there is a benefit of placing the small‐scale fins where the percentage increase in the heat transfer density is (10.22%) at (Ra = 103), and (50.6%) at (Ra = 105) due to existence of the small fins between the large fins.
Double gene mutations of LRSAM1 and REEP1 and a new REEP1 mutation site found in a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with subjective paresthesia: A case report
Authors: Qin Ji‐Yao , Zhou Zun‐Lin , Zhou Yuan‐Qing , Chen Ya , Yang Xiao‐Yan , Zhang Hai‐Qing , Xu Zu‐Cai
Published: August 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by selective degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons. Although dyskinesia is the most prominent clinical manifestation of ALS, with an in‐depth understanding of disease pathogenesis and clinical detection, more and more ALS patients are found to have nonmotor symptoms, such as sensory impairment. Genetic testing technology has developed rapidly in recent years. New genes have been proven to be involved in the pathogenesis of ALS. However, according to the existing research evidence, no literature has reported that patients with ALS have leucine‐rich repeats and sterility α mutations in motif 1 (LRSAM1) and receptor expression accessory protein 1 (REEP1). The mutation sites of REEP1 gene have not been reported, and the simultaneous mutations of two genes have not been reported. In the largest human gene mutation frequency database gnomad, the mutation sites of two genes are currently defined as new heterozygous variants with unclear clinical significance. Therefore, this article reports the clinical data of this case to further deepen the clinicians' understanding of the disease, and may provide evidence for further study of the new genotype–phenotype of LRSAM1 and REEP1.
Preparation and comparison of two medical dressings made from the collagens from fish and bovine
Authors: Sun Yaru , Wei Zeyu , Wang Ke , Xu Tianyue , Duan Rui , Zhang Junjie
Published: August 2023

Collagen is used in medical dressings because of its high hydrophilicity, low immunogenicity, excellent biocompatibility, and degradability. These features can promote cell proliferation and platelet agglomeration. Herein, we studied the preparation of gel dressing by using silver carp skin collagen and bovine collagen as raw materials. Their properties and the application effects of collagen gel dressing were evaluated and compared. The centrifugal stability, rheology, and water‐loss rate of silver carp skin collagen gel (SCG) and bovine tendon collagen gel (CTG) were determined. Results showed that the two gels were stable, and SCG had better rheology and ductility than CTG. However, the denaturation temperature and water‐retention rate of SCG were slightly lower than those of CTG. Two collagen gels were used in the burn‐repair experiment of KM mice. Results showed that the SCG and CTG were consistent with the wound‐repair effect of commercially available products for shallow II‐degree scald and deep II‐degree scald. In the superficial shallow II scald experiment, SCG had a faster healing rate in the first 8 days and a shorter recovery time than CTG. In the deep II‐degree scald experiment, the wound‐healing rate of SCG on the 14th day reached 94.24%, which was 2 days faster than the recovery time of CTG. Moreover, the skin after wound healing was shallower than the scar produced after CTG treatment. Therefore, SCG had the potential to be used as the medical dressing.
An injectable bioactive poly(γ‐glutamic acid) modified magnesium phosphate bone cement for bone regeneration
Authors: Yang Qinwei , Zhu Jiadong , Chen Jing , Zhu Peizhi , Gao Chunxia
Published: August 2023

As potential alternatives for calcium phosphate bone cements, magnesium phosphate bone cements (MPC) have attracted considerable attention in recent years. However, their several defects, such as rapid setting times, highly hydration temperature and alkaline pH due to the part of the unreacted phosphate, restricted their applications in human body. With aim to overcome these defects, a novel polypeptite poly(γ‐glutamic acid) (γ‐PGA) modified MPC were developed. Effect of γ‐PGA content on the injectability, anti‐washout ability, setting times, hydration temperature, mechanical compressive strength, in vitro bioactivity and degradation were investigated. Moreover, in vitro cyto‐compatibility was evaluated using MC3T3‐E1 cells by CCK‐8 and Live/Dead staining. All these results indicated that the 10%PGA‐MPC with an improved handling performances, low hydration temperature, high mechanical compressive strength, and good cyto‐compatibility hold a great potential for bone repair and regeneration.
Specific ammonium oxidation and denitrification rates in an MBR treating real textile wastewater for simultaneous carbon and nitrogen removal
Authors: Yilmaz Tülay , Demir Emir Kasım , Başaran Senem Teksoy , Çokgör Emine Ubay , Sahinkaya Erkan
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Dissolved oxygen (DO) and aeration on/off time are the determining parameters for simultaneous carbon and nitrogen removal in biological treatment processes. The most effective way to decide the optimum operational conditions, e.g. aeration on/off time or DO concentration during the aeration period, is to determine specific nitrification/denitrification rates. For this purpose, the effects of DO (6 and 3 mg L−1) and aeration on/off time (from 2/2 to 90/360 min) on the specific ammonium oxidation and denitritation/denitrification rates in a membrane bioreactor (MBR) treating real textile wastewater were deeply investigated.

RESULTS

The highest specific ammonium oxidation, denitritation and denitrification rates were obtained as 5.4, 3.8, and 5.3 mg N g−1 volatile suspended solids h−1, respectively, at an aeration on/off time of 90/360 min, which corresponded to the increase in specific ammonium oxidation rates by 1.8 and 2.1 times compared to continuous aeration conditions where DO was 6 and 3 mg L−1, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Higher specific ammonium oxidation and denitrification rates can be achieved with the intermittent aeration compared to continuous aeration. Hence existing treatment plants can be retrofitted for higher performance with reduced energy requirements. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
One‐pot synthesis of indolizin‐1‐yl‐pyrimidines from ethyl 3‐(3‐ethoxy‐3‐oxopropanoyl) indolizine‐1‐carboxylate, DMF‐DMA and amidines
Authors: Lee Ju‐Young , Jalani Hitesh B. , Jeong Jin‐Hyun
Published: August 2023

We have described herein a metal‐free one‐pot synthesis of indolizin‐1‐yl‐pyrimidines from ethyl 3‐(3‐ethoxy‐3‐oxopropanoyl) indolizine‐1‐carboxylate, DMF‐DMA and amidines. This protocol provides the tethering of indolizine scaffold with various 2‐substitutted pyrimidines using simple starting materials. This new chemo‐types may be useful in drug discovery and material science exploration.
Associations of Brain Entropy Estimated by Resting State fMRI With Physiological Indices, Body Mass Index, and Cognition
Authors: Del Mauro Gianpaolo , Wang Ze
Published: August 2023

Background

In recent years, resting‐state fMRI (rsfMRI)‐based brain entropy (BEN) has gained increasing interest as a tool to characterize brain activity. While previous studies indicate that BEN is correlated with cognition, it remains unclear whether BEN is influenced by other factors that typically affect brain activity measured by fMRI.

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between BEN and physiological indices, including respiratory rate (RR), heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (s‐BP), and body mass index (BMI), and to investigate whether and to what extent the relationship between BEN and cognition is influenced by physiological variables.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

One thousand two hundred six healthy subjects (mean age: 28.83 ± 3.69 years; 550 male) with rsfMRI datasets selected from the Human Connectome Project (HCP).

Field Strength/Sequence

Multiband echo planar imaging (EPI) sequence at 3.0 Tesla.

Assessment

Neurocognitive, physical health (RR, HR, s‐BP, BMI), and rsfMRI data were retrieved from the HCP datasets. Neurocognition was measured through the total cognition composite (TCC) score provided by HCP. BEN maps were calculated from rsfMRI data.

Statistical Tests

Multiple regression models, pheight‐family wise error (FWE) < 0.05 and pcluster‐FWE < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

BEN was negatively associated with RR (T‐thresholds ranging from 4.75 to 4.8; r‐threshold = |0.15|) and positively associated with s‐BP and BMI (T‐thresholds ranging from 4.75 to 4.8; r‐threshold = |0.15|) in areas overlapping with the default mode network. After controlling the physiological effects, BEN still showed regional associations with TCC, including negative associations (T‐thresholds = 3.09; r‐threshold = |0.1|) in the fronto‐parietal cortex and positive associations (T‐thresholds = 3.09; r‐threshold = |0.1|) in the sensorimotor system (motor network and the limbic system).

Data Conclusions

RR negatively affects rsfMRI‐derived BEN, while s‐BP and BMI positively affect BEN. The positive associations between BEN and cognition in the motor network and the limbic system might indicate a facilitation of information processing in the sensorimotor system.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Evaluation of the differences between low‐salt solid‐state fermented soy sauce and high‐salt diluted‐state fermented soy sauce in China: from taste‐active compounds and aroma‐active compounds to sensory characteristics
Authors: Liu Hua , Chen Xingguang , Lu Jian , Wu Dianhui
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed to determine the components related to sensory properties in soy sauce and to characterize the differences between low‐salt solid‐state fermented soy sauce (LSFSS) and high‐salt diluted‐state fermented soy sauce (HDFSS). The taste and aroma active components of 18 commercially available soy sauces (eight types of LSFSS and 10 types of HDFSS) were characterized. The relationship between these compounds, soy sauce samples, and sensory properties was modeled by partial least squares regression.

RESULTS

The analysis showed that the 11 taste‐active components, including glutamic acid, glycine, alanine, threonine, malic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, acetic acid, lactic acid, reducing sugar and salt, contributed greatly to the taste of soy sauce. In addition, umami, saltiness and sweetness are the characteristic tastes of HDFSS, whereas sourness and bitterness were the characteristic tastes of LSFSS. At the same time, seven aroma‐active compounds, namely 4‐ethyl‐2‐methoxyphenol, ethanol, 3‐methyl‐1‐butanol, ethyl acetate, 2‐phenethyl alcohol, 3‐methyl thiopropanol and 2‐ethyl‐4‐hydroxy‐5‐methylfuran‐3‐one, played a decisive role in the flavor of soy sauce. In addition, HDFSS presented the aroma attributes of smoky, alcoholic, floral, fruity and caramel‐like, whereas LSFSS mainly presented sour and malty aroma attributes.

CONCLUSION

The present study reveals new insight into the relationship between the chemical composition and sensory characteristics of soy sauce, which is of great significance for developing an objective measurement system and providing a theoretical basis to improve the sensory quality of soy sauce. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Chemical profiling and mechanistic studies of Zhi‐Shang‐Feng granules against influenza virus by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with Q exactive focus hybrid quadrupole orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry in combination with network pharmacology analysis
Authors: Xie Yuan‐yuan , Luo Jia‐yi , Hu Hong , Pan Juan , Jiang Meng , Wang Shu‐mei
Published: August 2023

Zhi‐Shang‐Feng Granules are used in the clinical treatment of influenza to relieve headaches, chills and fever, bronchitis, nasal congestion, neuralgia and other symptoms. To decipher the components responsible for therapeutic effects of Zhi‐Shang‐Feng g ranules against influenza virus, an analytical method based on high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with Q exactive focus hybrid quadrupole orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry was developed and the chemical profile of Zhi‐Shang‐Feng granules was characterized. Then, the identified components were used to conduct network pharmacological analysis and determine the potential mechanism of Zhi‐Shang‐Feng Granules. As a result, 177 compounds were putatively identified through comprehensive analysis by liquid chromatography coupled with high‐resolution mass spectrometry, of which 23 compounds were unambiguously confirmed with reference standards. Components in Zhi‐Shang‐Feng Granules were found to specifically act on different enzymes, G‐protein‐coupled receptors, ion channels and transporters in the immune, endocrine, nervous, and circulatory systems. The potential mechanism was related to several biological processes, including cell growth and death, pattern recognition receptor signalling, signalling by interleukins, and lipid metabolism. The combination of chemical profile characterization and network construction provided useful insight into the overall chemical composition of Zhi‐Shang‐Feng granules and revealed their potential anti‐infection, anti‐inflammatory and immunoregulatory mechanisms against influenza virus infected disease.
Silenced LASP1 interacts with DNMT1 to promote TJP2 expression and attenuate articular cartilage injury in mice by suppressing TJP2 methylation
Authors: Ren Lian , Cheng Shi‐Gao , Kang Peng‐Cheng , Li Teng‐Fei , Li Xun , Xiao Jiong‐Zhe , Jiang Dong
Published: August 2023

To investigate the regulatory mechanisms and effects of LIM and SH3 protein 1 (LASP1) on osteoarthritis (OA). IL‐1β was used to induce OA in cell models. Viability and apoptosis of chondrocytes were assessed. The expressions of tumor necrsis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and IL‐6 were measured by ELISA kit, and Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and Western blot were performed to test the expression of related proteins. The STRING database was used to predict the relationship between LASP1 and DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1). The tight junction protein 2 (TJP2) and Gene Expression Omnibus data were analyzed for differential OA genes. Methylation‐specific PCR detected methylation of the TJP2 promoter region, and chromatin immunoprecipitation detected the enrichment of DNMT1 in the TJP2 promoter region. Safranin O‐Fast Green staining and hematoxylin and eosin staining were used to determine the OARSI score and evaluate the pathological conditions of the joint tissues. LASP1 was highly expressed in IL‐1β‐induced cell models. Silencing of LASP1 promoted chondrocyte proliferation and expression of Collagen II and Aggrecan and inhibited chondrocyte apoptosis, inflammatory factors, and matrix metalloprotein expression. TJP2 is weakly expressed in OA models, and LASP1 promotes methylation of the TJP2 promoter region by interacting with DNMT1. Silencing of LASP1 attenuated IL‐1β‐induced chondrocyte degeneration by promoting TJP2 expression. Similarly, silencing LASP1 promotes TJP2 expression to alleviate articular cartilage injury in mice with OA. Silencing of LASP1 inhibited the methylation of the TJP2 promoter region by interacting with DNMT1, thereby alleviating articular cartilage damage in OA mice.
Electron‐Beam‐Assisted Laser‐Induced Strain Microfabrication
Authors: Qu Yusong , Chen Shengyao , He Juxing , Liu Zhenzhou , Ma Lijun , Wang Shu , Zhu Mingquan , Li Bo , Tan Xiang , Li Honglang , Cai Hongbing , Wang Cong , Liu Qian
Published: August 2023

Converting the unordered wrinkles generated on a bilayer film into controllable strain microstructures is a focal point of research. However, many existing methods are hindered by their inability to achieve microscale stress fields that align with the designed structure, consequently limiting the manufacturing of desirable microstructures. In recent years, laser‐induced strain micro/nanostructure fabrication has emerged as a promising technique due to its advantages, including simple processing, cost‐effectiveness, high efficiency, and large‐area fabrication. Nevertheless, this technique is limited to fabricating specific periodic structures, thereby constraining its manufacturing capacities. Here, a novel laser‐induced strain strategy assisted by electron beam irradiation is proposed, which successfully eliminates secondary structures and unordered wrinkles, realizing the fabrication of arbitrary micro/nanostructures with consistency between design and fabrication. Furthermore, the generation mechanisms of these strain structures are elucidated by a combination of simulations and experiments. The method transcends the limitations stemming from intrinsic wavelength of wrinkles, enabling the fabrication of isolated strain structures. The diverse structures achieved through the approach demonstrate the designability, controllability, and universality of the novel laser‐induced strain strategy, establishing it as a reliable method for surface micro/nanostructure fabrication.
Associations of Apolipoprotein ε4 Genotypes with Motor and Nonmotor Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Kapan Ali , Haider Sandra , Wakolbinger Maria , Spatt Josef
Published: August 2023

Background

The apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 allele has been associated with cognitive decline in Parkinson's disease (PD), but little is known about its relationship with motor and other nonmotor symptoms and whether APOE ε4 retains an influence on cognition when other factors are considered.

Objective

To investigate the impact of APOE ε4 on motor/nonmotor symptoms and its relationship with other factors affecting cognition in individuals with PD.

Methods

We analyzed data from 7616 individuals, comparing motor/nonmotor symptoms in different APOE genotypes using binary logistic regression. Multivariate logistic regression examined factors associated with cognitive impairments, including APOE ε4, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) score, Non‐motor Symptom Questionnaire (NMS) score, Movement Disorder Society–Sponsored Revision of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS‐UPDRS) Part II score, and physical activity level.

Results

APOE ε4 heterozygosity was modestly associated with lower cognitive scores (odds ratio [OR], 0.92; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.87–0.99), whereas no significant association was found for any other nonmotor and motor symptoms. However, in multivariate analysis, cognitive impairment was associated with higher GDS (OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.23–1.34), NMS (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.19–1.25), and MDS‐UPDRS Part II (OR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.06–1.09) scores, whereas physical activity was negatively associated (OR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.98–0.99). APOE ε4 was no longer significant after adjusting for these factors.

Conclusions

There is a link between cognition and APOE ε4 in patients with PD; however, when considering multiple factors, APOE ε4 plays a subordinate role. Other factors, such as depression, physical activity, and other nonmotor symptoms, demonstrate a stronger influence on cognitive impairment.
APA session: Curiosity must triumph over fear in evaluating AI's role
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: August 2023

Speakers at a national conference this month urged psychologists to assume a role in the development of the next wave of technological tools for mental health practice, research and education, a process that will continue regardless of whether these professionals choose to engage.
MRI scarcity in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Jalloul Mohammad , Miranda‐Schaeubinger Monica , Noor Abass M. , Stein Joel M. , Amiruddin Raisa , Derbew Hermon Miliard , Mango Victoria L. , Akinola Adeyanju , Hart Kelly , Weygand Joseph , Pollack Erica , Mohammed Sharon , Scheel John R. , Shell Jessica , Dako Farouk , Mhatre Pradnya , Kulinski Lauren , Otero Hansel J. , Mollura Daniel J.
Published: August 2023

Since the introduction of MRI as a sustainable diagnostic modality, global accessibility to its services has revealed a wide discrepancy between populations—leaving most of the population in LMICs without access to this important imaging modality. Several factors lead to the scarcity of MRI in LMICs; for example, inadequate infrastructure and the absence of a dedicated workforce are key factors in the scarcity observed. RAD‐AID has contributed to the advancement of radiology globally by collaborating with our partners to make radiology more accessible for medically underserved communities. However, progress is slow and further investment is needed to ensure improved global access to MRI.
A posteriori error analysis for a space‐time parallel discretization of parabolic partial differential equations
Authors: Chaudhry Jehanzeb H. , Estep Donald , Tavener Simon J.
Published: August 2023

We construct a space‐time parallel method for solving parabolic partial differential equations by coupling the parareal algorithm in time with overlapping domain decomposition in space. The goal is to obtain a discretization consisting of “local” problems that can be solved on parallel computers efficiently. However, this introduces significant sources of error that must be evaluated. Reformulating the original parareal algorithm as a variational method and implementing a finite element discretization in space enables an adjoint‐based a posteriori error analysis to be performed. Through an appropriate choice of adjoint problems and residuals the error analysis distinguishes between errors arising due to the temporal and spatial discretizations, as well as between the errors arising due to incomplete parareal iterations and incomplete iterations of the domain decomposition solver. We first develop an error analysis for the parareal method applied to parabolic partial differential equations, and then refine this analysis to the case where the associated spatial problems are solved using overlapping domain decomposition. These constitute our time parallel algorithm and space‐time parallel algorithm respectively. Numerical experiments demonstrate the accuracy of the estimator for both algorithms and the iterations between distinct components of the error.
Using population pharmacokinetics to optimize initial vancomycin dosing guidelines for neonates to treat sepsis caused by coagulase‐negative staphylococcus
Authors: Chung Erin , Seto Winnie
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Vancomycin dosing tailored for newborns is challenging due to the significant influence of maturation and organ function on pharmacokinetics. Population pharmacokinetic (popPK) models can be used to improve target attainment in neonates.

Objectives

The primary objective was to derive and evaluate a popPK model of intravenous vancomycin for neonates. Second, the predictive performance of this popPK model was compared with published popPK models.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit receiving intravenous vancomycin. A popPK model was derived with 70% of the dataset using a nonlinear mixed effects modeling method. The predictive performance of the current popPK model was validated and compared with 22 published popPK models using the remaining 30% of the dataset. Monte Carlo simulations (MCS) were performed to derive optimal dosing regimens to treat neonatal sepsis caused by coagulase‐negative staphylococci (CoNS).

Results

Among 655 vancomycin courses from 448 neonates, 78% of vancomycin trough concentrations were outside target range (10–15 mg/L) for central nervous system infections and 43% were outside target range (5–12 mg/L) for other infections using the institution's vancomycin dosing. A one‐compartment model best described the observed data with a mean clearance of 0.11 ± 0.03 L/kg/h and volume of distribution (V) of 1.02 ± 0.08 L/kg. Body weight (WT), postmenstrual age (PMA), and serum creatinine (SCr) were significant covariates associated with clearance (p < 0.001) and body WT was a significant covariate associated with V (p = 0.009). Our study's popPK model has similar or better accuracy and precision than other published models. MCS‐derived vancomycin doses from the validated model achieved >90% target attainment for a steady state through target range of 10–15 mg/L in the majority of PMA and SCr categories (78%) to treat CoNS sepsis.

Conclusion

A vancomycin dosing guideline derived from a validated popPK model in neonates with CoNS sepsis is recommended to improve target attainment.
Efficacy of risdiplam in spinal muscular atrophy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Pascual‐Morena Carlos , Martínez‐Vizcaíno Vicente , Cavero‐Redondo Iván , Martínez‐García Irene , Moreno‐Herráiz Nerea , Álvarez‐Bueno Celia , Saz‐Lara Alicia
Published: August 2023

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of risdiplam on motor and respiratory function in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). We systematically searched Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library from inception to March 2023. We included pre‐post studies that determined the effect of risdiplam on the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP‐INTEND), the 32‐item Motor Function Measure (MFM32), the Revised Upper Limb Module (RULM), the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale – Expanded (HFMSE), respiratory function, and the proportion of risdiplam‐related adverse events in a population with SMA (phenotypes 1 and 2/3). Meta‐analyses were also performed where possible. Eleven studies were included. After 12 months of treatment, 57% of participants with SMA1 achieved a CHOP‐INTEND score ≥ 40 points, and more than half were able to feed orally and had head control. In SMA2/3, MFM32, RULM, and HFMSE increased by 2.09 (1.17, 3.01), 1.73 (1.25, 2.20), and 1.00 (0.40, 1.59) points, respectively. Efficacy on respiratory function in SMA2/3 was inconsistent. Finally, 16% of participants experienced adverse events, but serious adverse events could not be quantified due to a lack of cases. The limited available evidence suggests that risdiplam is an effective and safe drug for the treatment of SMA. In addition, long‐term clinical benefit may be partly determined by the stage of disease at which treatment is initiated.
The influence of teachers' intrinsic motivation on students' intrinsic motivation: The mediating role of teachers' motivating style and teacher‐student relationships
Authors: Zou Honghui , Yao Jihai , Zhang Yuexin , Huang Xinyi
Published: August 2023

Teachers' intrinsic motivation for teaching and students' intrinsic motivation for learning are important contributors to effective teaching and learning, and exploring their relationships and influencing mechanisms can clarify the path to promote teachers' professional development and students' overall growth. In our study, 44 secondary school teachers and 2461 secondary school students completed questionnaires, and a multilevel structural equation model was used to explore the influence of teachers' intrinsic motivation for teaching on students' intrinsic motivation for learning and the mediating role of teachers' motivating style and teacher‐student relationships. The results showed that (1) teachers' intrinsic motivation for teaching was significantly positively correlated with students' intrinsic motivation for learning, and the former had a significant direct effect on the latter; (2) teachers' autonomy‐supporting motivating style, positive teacher‐student relationships, and negative teacher‐student relationships played mediating roles between teachers' intrinsic motivation for teaching and students' intrinsic motivation for learning; and (3) teachers' motivating style and teacher‐student relationships played a chained mediating role between teachers' intrinsic motivation for teaching and students' intrinsic motivation for learning.
Aging, crops and pesticide input: empirical evidence from rural China
Authors: Du Sanxia , Luo Xiaofeng , Tang Lin
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Although scholars have elaborated on the effects of aging, there is no consensus on the relationship between the aging and farmers' pesticide input. Regional differences in agricultural crops in China, namely ‘Southern Rice and Northern Wheat’, have not been considered in any of the existing studies.

RESULTS

Based on the data of 443 wheat farmers and 324 rice farmers in China, this study found that aging significantly increased pesticide input. After sorting out the types of pesticides, it was found that the aging significantly increased the input of biological pesticides, but did not affect the input of chemical pesticides. After considering the planting pattern of ‘Southern Rice and Northern Wheat’, aging did not have a significant impact on the pesticide input of wheat farmers, but had a significant positive impact on the pesticide input of rice farmers. For wheat farmers in the north, social services have a significant inhibitory effect on the relationship between aging and pesticide input. For rice farmers, path dependence has a significant role in promoting the relationship between aging and pesticide input.

CONCLUSION

The planting pattern of ‘Southern Rice and Northern Wheat’ will indeed affect the relationship between aging and pesticide input, and social services and path dependence are the main reasons for this heterogeneity effect. Therefore, improving agricultural socialization services and reducing farmers' dependence on traditional production experience will be an important way to effectively reduce the impact of aging. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Building an adaptive dose simulation framework to aid dose and schedule selection
Authors: Hooijmaijers Richard , Parasrampuria Ridhi , Marostica Eleonora , Ferron‐Brady Geraldine , Post Teun M. , Visser Sandra A. G.
Published: August 2023

Establishing a dosing regimen that maximizes clinical benefit and minimizes adverse effects for novel therapeutics is a key objective for drug developers. Finding an optimal dose and schedule can be particularly challenging for compounds with a narrow therapeutic window such as in oncology. Modeling and simulation tools can be valuable to conduct in silico evaluations of various dosing scenarios with the goal to identify those that could minimize toxicities, avoid unscheduled dose interruptions, or minimize premature discontinuations, which all could limit the potential for therapeutic benefit. In this tutorial, we present a stepwise development of an adaptive dose simulation framework that can be used for dose optimization simulations. The tutorial first describes the general workflow, followed by a technical description with basic to advanced practical examples of its implementation in mrgsolve and is concluded with examples on how to use this in decision‐making around dose and schedule optimization. The adaptive simulation framework is built with pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic (i.e., biomarkers, activity markers, target engagement markers, efficacy markers), and safety models that include evaluations of unexplained interindividual and intraindividual variability and covariate impact, which can be replaced and expanded (e.g., combination setting, comparator setting) with user‐defined models. Subsequent adaptive simulations allow investigation of the impact of starting dose, dosing intervals, and event‐driven (exposure or effect) dose modifications on any end point. The resulting simulation‐derived insights can be used in quantitatively proposing dose and regimens that better balance benefit and adverse effects for further evaluation, aiding dose selection discussions, and designing dose modification recommendations, among others.
Computational study of van der Waals interaction at the sub‐nanometer scale and its influence on the molecular behavior under confinement conditions in graphene‐2D h‐BN heterostructure
Authors: Iyakutti Kombiah , Surya V. J. , Lakshmi Iyakutti , Rajeswarapalanichamy R. , Kawazoe Y.
Published: August 2023

The atomistic features of the van der Waals interaction between graphene and 2D h‐BN layer are investigated with and without doping using density functional theory. It is computationally shown, how different types of 2D materials can form heterojunctions with each other without the need for close lattice matching if the atomic species are neighbors in the periodic table. H2, N2, and O2 are introduced as the dopants separately to investigate the van der Waals interaction at the sub‐nanometer scale and its influence on the molecules and interlayer coupling. The geometrical forms and formation energies of differently bonded molecules and atoms immersed in van der Waals forces in the heterostructure are predicted accurately. The spatial dependence of the van der Waals energy between graphene and h‐BN and its effect on the confined molecule/atoms is well brought out in the present investigation. The weak van der Waals forces between graphene and h‐BN do introduce minor changes at the nanoscale but maintain the original band structure which is dominated by graphene. The present graphene and 2D h‐BN van der Waals heterostructure, with enhanced features, offers a unique opportunity to fabricate new materials with different properties. They will become the building blocks in engineering new functional materials.
Transition metal embedded in two‐dimensional bi‐BN as high activity single atom electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reactions
Authors: Chen Feng , Zhang Xinhui , Jia Baonan , Hao Jinbo , Zhang Chunling , Wu Ge , Yuan Yazhao , Ma Yirong , Li Yuanzi , Lu Pengfei
Published: August 2023

Searching for stable, highly effective and cost‐efficient catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is important to addressing the energy crisis and environmental issues. A single atom embedded in two‐dimensional boron nitride materials is a viable candidate for the ORR to replace Pt‐based catalysts. Herein, by making use of density functional theory (DFT) simulations, we systematically study a novel two‐dimensional boron nitride materials (bi‐BN) embedded by 23 kinds of transition metal (TM) atoms ranging from Ti to Au as high activity single atom electrocatalyst for the ORR. According to the initial screening criteria (−4.92 eV < ΔGO* < 0 eV), 13 kinds of TM‐bi‐BN (TM = Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, Pt, Au) meet the criteria and are selected to study their ORR performance in this work. Our calculations indicate that Au‐bi‐BN has the most superior ORR performance with the lowest overpotential (0.43 V), which was lower than that of Pt (0.45 V) as ORR catalyst. The origin of the catalytic activity of the ORR is studied by the linear correlation between these oxygen‐containing intermediates, the volcanic curve, the d‐band center and the crystal orbital Hamilton populations. Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics simulation suggests that Au‐bi‐BN is thermodynamically stable at 300 K. Our results not only offer valuable insights into the utility of boron‐nitride materials as catalysts for ORR, but also facilitate the development of novel catalysts for ORR through improved comprehension of the material properties.
A Perspective of Magnetoelectric Effect in Electrocatalysis
Authors: Shao Dongsheng , Wu Tianze , Li Xiaoning , Ren Xiaoming , Xu Zhichuan J.
Published: August 2023

The integration of magnetic fields with magnetoelectric (ME) coupling materials has been recently reported for electrocatalysis applications. Highly efficient energy conversion and storage can be potentially provided by this emerging approach. The ME properties, that is, the coexistence of ferromagnetic (FM) and ferroelectric (FE) ordering in some multiferroic materials, can be manipulated by magnetic or electric fields. The ME coupling can result in unique spin‐related physical properties in catalysts, further leading to interesting effects on electrocatalytic reactions. Herein, a discussion on the ME coupling multiferroic materials, as well as their potential opportunities and challenges as electrocatalysts in selected electrochemical reactions, is provided.
Investigating the impact of prepaid meters on communal water points in Malawi: A case study of Lilongwe peri‐urban areas
Authors: Chiumya Don , Gumbo Jabulani Ray
Published: August 2023

In the peri‐urban areas of Lilongwe, the capital city of Malawi, water is mostly obtained from communal points. Increased indebtedness resulted in the disconnection of more water points. This prompted the Lilongwe Water Board (LWB) to implement a new prepaid metering system to provide access to water 24 h a day and increase revenue collection. This study investigated the impact of prepaid meters on communal water points. Specifically, the impact of prepaid meters on water affordability, users' perceptions of the new system, the influence of prepaid meters on revenue collection, and the reliability of the new system were examined. A mixed‐methods approach was employed in this study. In total, 111 households were sampled. A questionnaire and focus group discussion were used to collect data. The results of the study indicated a high level of satisfaction with the new system, as 98.2% (109) of the sampled households expressed their contentment. Chi‐square was employed to check the relationship between household income and preference of the system in terms of accessibility and affordability. The p value of the chi‐square test was 0.956, indicating no significant relationship between household income and the preferred metering system. Hence, the prepaid system has proved affordable as low‐ and high‐income people are satisfied with the system, while 1.8% (2) are dissatisfied because they resist drawing water on credit. The LWB reported that the new system increased revenue collection and guaranteed residents' access to clean water. Additionally, 68.5% (76) of the households had functional hand‐washing facilities that ensured hygiene practices. The system suffers from low pressure at the water point during cloudy weather. The study recommends that the LWB consider resizing the system to ensure water access during cloudy days. In conclusion, clean water leads to good health for citizens. Generally, citizens in good health are more productive in developing a nation.
The Economics of Blockchain Within Africa
Authors: Thegeya Aaron
Published: August 2023

Blockchain technology offers the potential to transform economic activity and improve living standards in Africa by overcoming information asymmetry problems, property rights and governance barriers. Blockchain innovations have the ability to boost levels of productivity and unlock capital flows to underserved sectors, in addition to leveraging the increasing returns of information as an input to production in order to spur economic growth. This background paper discusses the recent advances in blockchain technology within Africa, and investigates the underlying economic principles of blockchain networks, both universally and in an African context. It reviews the enabling infrastructure and supporting technology, including digital identity. Finally, it gives policy recommendations to increase the uptake of blockchain technology on the continent.Keywords: blockchain, data governance, Africa.
Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment: Qualitative Analysis of SMEs from Cambodia and Vietnam
Authors: Samy Yiagadeesen , Adedeji Adeniran , Iraoya Augustine , Dutta Madhurjya Kumar , Fakmawii Jasmine Lal , Hao Wen
Published: August 2023

This chapter explores opportunities for, and barriers against, an inclusive trade environment for women from SMEs in export-oriented sectors in Cambodia and Vietnam. Despite trade's substantial contribution to increasing women’s labor force participation in these two nations, opportunities to diversify jobs, skills, businesses, and markets remain important gaps to address. Not only are women entrepreneurs overrepresented in micro and small enterprises, they are also crowded in a few specific industries where market saturation often limits their ability to scale up and compete in international markets. Similarly, women workers engaged in trade are concentrated in low-paying, low-skilled jobs, while often trapped in low value-added manufacturing sectors. Drawing on qualitative analysis, this chapter uncovers the underlying reasons behind these limitations and then puts forward a range of policy recommendations, including ways to promote women’s inclusion in male-dominated sectors and removing barriers to entry in the global market. Some of these include gender-mainstreaming trade-related policies, trade finance, industry-specific business training designs, and vocational skill training programs that shift from traditional gender-stereotyped training courses to technological and digital training for women and girls.