bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching-learning Process at Sri Aurobindo’s Integral School - An Explorative Study
Authors: Mohanty Subhasree , Subhrajyoti Trupti
Published: April 2023

Education brings emancipation from the darkness of ignorance and populates an individual’s personality with the versatility of knowledge, skill, and abilities. In an education system, enthusiasm for learning and clarity in teaching multiply the success of what is a genuine desire of students and the objective of an institution. From western to eastern, from pre-independence to post-independence, the dynamism in the process of teaching and learning has always been acenter of attraction for all the educationists, policy-makers, committees and commissions to provide effective assistance and self-evaluative measures to both learners as well as teachers. Hence, best practices of the teaching-learning process in the context of quality outcomes are always the need of the hour. The researcher conducted a study to explore the teaching-learning practices of one Sri Aurobindo’s Integral School located at Kendupatana village, Khordha district concerning physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual development of elementary students, methods of transaction of curriculum, assessment and evaluation techniques perceived by teachers, perception of the headmaster on supervision and self-cooperation. Twenty-four teachers, one hundred-five students, and one headmaster were selected as a sample through a purposive sampling technique, and data was collected through a self-developed open-ended questionnaire and semi-structured interview schedule. Thick description and microanalysis of data resulted that learner-centered approach was strongly followed in classroom transactions, a cordial teacher-taught relationship was developed, task analysis, storytelling, play way, demonstration, group discussion method, songs, and drama were the common strategies adopted by the teachers at the elementary level. Further, the institution focused on regular yoga practice, meditation, and pranayam for the development of student’s physical, mental, and psychological well-being. The headmasterof the institution was always ready and friendly to discuss anything regarding their school’s improvement with their staff and students.
Non-Linear Growth Models for Acreage, Production and Productivity of Food-grains in Haryana
Authors: Sanju  , Deepender
Published: April 2023

In order to understand the growth patterns of diverse commodities, agricultural research heavily relies on the computation of growth rates. For the computation of the growth rate, many researchers adopted the parametric approach rather than the non-linear model.  In this paper, an attempt has been made to develop non-linear growth models for acreage, production and productivity of total (kharif + rabi) food-grains in Haryana from 1966 to 2021. We discussed different non-linear growth model viz. Logistic, Gompertz and Monomolecular and also determined the initial value for each parameter. The parameters were estimated using Levenberg - Marquardt’s iterative method of non-linear regression. Best model was selected based on goodness of fit statistics such R2, RMSE and MAE. Finally we concluded that Logistic model was found suitable to fit for acreage, production and productivity of food-grains grown in Haryana followed by Gompertz model. Forecasting for the period 2022–2026 was done using the selected best non linear growth model.
Abdominal Pain and Petechial Rash in a 95-Year-Old Farmer
Authors: Kadekaru Rino , Yano Hiroyuki , Kinjo Mitsuyo
Published: April 2023

A 95-year-old farmer taking prednisolone for bullous pemphigoid had 24 hours of abdominal pain, 2 weeks of diarrhea, and 3 months of intermittent abdominal bloating and anorexia. Evaluation showed purpuric macules and small thumbprint-like patches on her upper abdomen and central chest and a white blood cell count of 13 600/μL (89.9% neutrophils, 0.2% eosinophils). What is the diagnosis and what would you do next?
Racial and Ethnic Differences in Barriers Faced by Medical College Admission Test Examinees and Their Association With Medical School Application and Matriculation
Authors: Faiz Jessica , Essien Utibe R. , Washington Donna L. , Ly Dan P.
Published: April 2023

Importance

There has been disappointing progress in enrollment of medical students from racial and ethnic groups underrepresented in medicine, including American Indian or Alaska Native, Black, and Hispanic students. Barriers that may influence students interested in medicine are understudied.

Objective

To examine racial and ethnic differences in barriers faced by students taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used survey data (surveys administered between January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2018) from MCAT examinees linked with application and matriculation data from the Association of American Medical Colleges. Data analyses were performed from November 1, 2021, to January 31, 2023.

Main Variables and Outcomes

Main outcomes were medical school application and matriculation. Key independent variables reflected parental educational level, financial and educational barriers, extracurricular opportunities, and interpersonal discrimination.

Results

The sample included 81 755 MCAT examinees (0.3% American Indian or Alaska Native, 21.3% Asian, 10.1% Black, 8.0% Hispanic, and 60.4% White; 56.9% female). There were racial and ethnic differences in reported barriers. For example, after adjustment for demographic characteristics and examination year, 39.0% (95% CI, 32.3%-45.8%) of American Indian or Alaska Native examinees, 35.1% (95% CI, 34.0%-36.2%) of Black examinees, and 46.6% (95% CI, 45.4%-47.9%) of Hispanic examinees reported having no parent with a college degree compared with 20.4% (95% CI, 20.0%-20.8%) of White examinees. After adjustment for demographic characteristics and examination year, Black examinees (77.8%; 95% CI, 76.9%-78.7%) and Hispanic examinees (71.3%; 95% CI, 70.2%-72.4%) were less likely than White examinees (80.2%; 95% CI, 79.8%-80.5%) to apply to medical school. Black examinees (40.6%; 95% CI, 39.5%-41.7%) and Hispanic examinees (40.2%; 95% CI, 39.0%-41.4%) were also less likely than White examinees (45.0%; 95% CI, 44.6%-45.5%) to matriculate at medical school. Examined barriers were associated with a lower likelihood of medical school application and matriculation (eg, examinees having no parent with a college degree had lower odds of applying [odds ratio, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.61-0.69] and matriculating [odds ratio, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.59-0.66]). Black-White and Hispanic-White disparities in application and matriculation were largely accounted for by differences in these barriers.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study of MCAT examinees, American Indian or Alaska Native, Black, and Hispanic students reported lower parental educational levels, greater educational and financial barriers, and greater discouragement from prehealth advisers than White students. These barriers may deter groups underrepresented in medicine from applying to and matriculating at medical school.
Identifying Electronic Health Record Contributions to Diagnostic Error in Ambulatory Settings Through Legal Claims Analysis
Authors: Krevat Seth A. , Samuel Sunil , Boxley Christian , Mohan Vishnu , Siegal Dana , Gold Jeffrey A. , Ratwani Raj M.
Published: April 2023

This qualitative study analyzes closed legal claims data to determine whether problems with electronic health records are associated with diagnostic errors, in which part of the diagnostic process errors occur, and the specific types of errors that occur.
Prognostic and predictive impact of gene expression in node‐positive early breast cancer patients receiving dose‐dense versus standard‐dose adjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Reinisch Mattea , Bruzas Simona , Gluz Oleg , Ataseven Beyhan , Schmid Peter , Cortés Javier , Blohmer Jens‐Uwe , Shenoy Satyendra , Dyson Mark H. , Dittmer‐Grabowski Christine , Chiari Ouafaa , Harrach Hakima , Gebauer Daniel , Traut Alexander , Kuemmel Sherko
Published: April 2023

The utility of multigene expression assays in advanced (≥ 4 positive lymph nodes) early breast cancer (EBC) is limited. We conducted exploratory transcriptomic analysis of 758 genes (Breast Cancer 360 panel, nCounter® platform; NanoString) in primary tumor samples collected during a phase 3 trial comparing adjuvant taxane‐containing dose‐dense chemotherapy (ddCTX) versus standard‐dosed chemotherapy (stCTX) in resected EBC with ≥ 4 positive lymph nodes. Prognostic and predictive associations with disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated by Cox regression with false discovery rate (FDR) adjustment. Data were available from tumor samples of 141/226 patients (median follow‐up: 14 years). Several genes/signatures, including immune markers, showed prognostic relevance in unadjusted analyses. Of these, two remained significant after multiplicity adjustment: a positive effect on DFS of programmed cell death 1 ligand‐2 (PD‐L2) in the ddCTX arm (univariate HR: 0.53, FDR‐adjusted P = 0.036) and a negative effect on OS of HER2‐enriched (HER2‐E) signature in the stCTX arm (univariate HR: 5.40, FDR‐adjusted P = 0.036). Predictive analyses showed greater DFS benefit of ddCTX in tumors with high antigen processing machinery (APM) expression (multivariate interaction P = 0.024). Multigene expression assays have a prognostic and predictive potential in advanced EBC, and further investigation is warranted in order to identify candidates for de‐escalated treatment. In addition, intrinsic subtype and immune gene expression have predictive potential.
Giant Electrostrain in Lead‐Free Textured Piezoceramics by Defect Dipole Design
Authors: Lai Lixiang , Li Bin , Tian Shuo , Zhao Zhihao , Zhang Shujun , Dai Yejing
Published: April 2023

By converting electrical signal into mechanical displacement, piezoelectric actuators are widely used in many applications due to their precise displacement, fast response, and small size. The unipolar electrostrain values larger than 1% reported so far are from lead‐based single crystals or ceramics, which brings environmental concerns. Herein, a giant unipolar electrostrain of 1.6% with good fatigue resistance and low hysteresis in Sr/Nb‐doped Bi0.5(Na0.82K0.18)0.5TiO3 lead‐free textured piezoceramics by defect dipole design is reported, which is comparable to or even higher than state‐of‐the‐art lead‐based piezoelectric single crystals. The engineered defect dipoles in ergodic relaxor ferroelectrics can introduce a large internal bias field along the poling direction, where the 〈111〉‐oriented defect dipoles with large polarizability aligning along the 〈111〉‐oriented spontaneous polarizations of the electric‐field‐induced ferroelectric phase greatly benefit the reversible phase‐transition process of the 〈00l〉‐textured ceramic. In‐depth microstructural studies reveal that the greatly enhanced electrostrain is realized by the synergistic contributions from the reversible electric‐field‐induced phase transition, grain orientation engineering, and most importantly, defect dipole engineering. The present research provides a general strategy for the design of piezoceramics with high electrostrain, which is expected to be promising alternative to lead‐based piezoelectric actuators.
From Nanoalloy to Nano‐Laminated Interfaces for Highly Stable Alkali‐Metal Anodes
Authors: Pirayesh Parham , Tantratian Karnpiwat , Amirmaleki Maedeh , Yang Feipeng , Jin Enzhong , Wang Yijia , Goncharova Lyudmila V. , Guo Jinghua , Filleter Tobin , Chen Lei , Zhao Yang
Published: April 2023

Metal anodes are considered the holy grail for next‐generation batteries because of their high gravimetric/volumetric specific capacity and low electrochemical potential. However, several unsolved challenges have impeded their practical applications, such as dendrite growth, interfacial side reactions, dead layer formation, and volume change. An electrochemically, chemically, and mechanically stable artificial solid electrolyte interphase is key to addressing the aforementioned issue with metal anodes. This study demonstrates a new concept of organic and inorganic hybrid interfaces for both Li‐ and Na‐metal anodes. Through tailoring the compositions of the hybrid interfaces, a nanoalloy structure to nano‐laminated structure is realized. As a result, the nanoalloy interface (1Al2O3–1alucone or 2Al2O3–2alucone) presents the most stable electrochemical performances for both Li‐and Na‐metal anodes. The optimized thicknesses required for the nanoalloy interfaces for Li‐ and Na‐metal anodes are different. A cohesive zone model is applied to interpret the underlying mechanism. Furthermore, the influence of the mechanical stabilities of the different interfaces on the electrochemical performances is investigated experimentally and theoretically. This approach provides a fundamental understanding and establishes the bridge between mechanical properties and electrochemical performance for alkali‐metal anodes.
Multistep Dissolution of Lamellar Crystals Generates Superthin Amorphous Ni(OH)2 Catalyst for UOR
Authors: Zhu Yajie , Liu Cheng , Cui Shiwen , Lu Zhuorong , Ye Jinyu , Wen Yunzhou , Shi Wenjuan , Huang Xiaoxiong , Xue Liangyao , Bian Juanjuan , Li Youyong , Xu Yifei , Zhang Bo
Published: April 2023

Urea oxidation reaction (UOR) is an ideal replacement of the conventional anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) for efficient hydrogen production due to the favorable thermodynamics. However, the UOR activity is severely limited by the high oxidation potential of Ni‐based catalysts to form Ni3+, which is considered as the active site for UOR. Herein, by using in situ cryoTEM, cryo‐electron tomography, and in situ Raman, combined with theoretical calculations, a multistep dissolution process of nickel molybdate hydrate is reported, whereby NiMoO4·xH2O nanosheets exfoliate from the bulk NiMoO4·H2O nanorods due to the dissolution of Mo species and crystalline water, and further dissolution results in superthin and amorphous nickel (II) hydroxide (ANH) flocculus catalyst. Owing to the superthin and amorphous structure, the ANH catalyst can be oxidized to NiOOH at a much lower potential than conventional Ni(OH)2 and finally exhibits more than an order of magnitude higher current density (640 mA cm−2), 30 times higher mass activity, 27 times higher TOF than those of Ni(OH)2 catalyst. The multistep dissolution mechanism provides an effective methodology for the preparation of highly active amorphous catalysts.
Multifunctional Optoelectronic Synapses Based on Arrayed MoS2 Monolayers Emulating Human Association Memory
Authors: Huang Ming , Ali Wajid , Yang Liuli , Huang Jianhua , Yao Chengdong , Xie Yunfei , Sun Ronghuan , Zhu Chenguang , Tan Yike , Liu Xiao , Li Shengman , Li Ziwei , Pan Anlian
Published: April 2023

Optoelectronic synaptic devices integrating light‐perception and signal‐storage functions hold great potential in neuromorphic computing for visual information processing, as well as complex brain‐like learning, memorizing, and reasoning. Herein, the successful growth of MoS2 monolayer arrays assisted by gold nanorods guided precursor nucleation is demonstrated. Optical, spectral, and morphology characterizations of MoS2 prove that arrayed flakes are homogeneous monolayers, and they are further fabricated as optoelectronic devices showing featured photocurrent loops and stable optical responses. Typical synaptic behaviors of photo‐induced short‐term potentiation, long‐term potentiation, and paired pulse facilitation are recorded under different light stimulations of 450, 532, and 633 nm lasers at various excitation powers. A visual sensing system consisting of 5 × 6 pixels is constructed to simulate the light‐sensing image mapped by forgetting curves in real time. Moreover, the system presents the ability of utilizing associated images to restore vague and incomplete memories, which successfully mimics human intelligent behaviors of association memory and logical reasoning. The work emulates the brain‐like artificial intelligence using arrayed 2D semiconductors, which paves an avenue to achieve smart retina and complex brain‐like system.
Comparison of tristimulus spectrocolorimeter measurements and human visual assessment of South Carolina field moist Munsell soil colors
Authors: Hill Isabella , Park Dara , Bridges William , White David
Published: April 2023

Soil color has historically been estimated visually, but inaccuracies with this method have been documented, including disagreement in evaluators, color blindness, and differences in physical color books due to weathering. As new technologies become available to soil scientists, a reliable digital method to determine soil color in the field could offer a solution to these inaccuracies. This research aimed to assess if visual estimates of soil matrix color from 111 soil horizons differed from digital measurements of Munsell soil color across three South Carolina regions. Visual estimates of soil color were conducted using Munsell color books. The XRite Capsure gave digital measurements in Munsell notation specific for soils. The absolute difference between hues was similar among assessment methods. Visual estimates of color value and chroma were statistically greater than digital measurements. However, color values and chromas were less than one chip different, suggesting no practical difference between the two assessment methods. Utilizing a digital soil color assessment tool can assist with training and validate human estimates.
The role of sovereignty in Indigenous community‐based health interventions: A qualitative metasynthesis
Authors: Joseph Gillian
Published: April 2023

Indigenous peoples around the world suffer from health disparities attributed to a plethora of risk factors and social determinants of health stemming from colonialism and systemic oppression. Community‐based health interventions have been identified as a means for addressing and reducing Indigenous health disparities by allowing for Indigenous sovereignty to be respected and centered. However, sovereignty relating to Indigenous health and well‐being is underresearched. The present article explores the role of sovereignty in Indigenous community‐based health interventions. A qualitative metasynthesis was conducted among 14 primary research studies co‐authored by Indigenous people describing and evaluating Indigenous community‐based health interventions. Five conceptual themes emerged as aspects of sovereignty which benefit Indigenous health and well‐being outcomes: integration of culture; relocation of knowledge; connectedness; self‐actualization; and stewardship. Implications are discussed, with the goal of creating a decolonial framework rooted in Indigenous epistemologies and perspectives for how sovereignty impacts Indigenous health, as well as strengthening a clear need for further research on and praxis of sovereignty in Indigenous healthcare.
Prevalence and predictors of incident ADRD diagnosis following a Medicare home health episode
Authors: Burgdorf Julia G. , Mroz Tracy M. , Reckrey Jennifer M. , Barrón Yolanda , Ryvicker Miriam
Published: April 2023

INTRODUCTION

Home health (HH) may be an important source of care for those with early‐stage/undiagnosed Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD), but little is known regarding prevalence or predictors of incident ADRD diagnosis following HH.

METHODS

Using 2010–2012 linked Master Beneficiary Summary File (MBSF) and HH assessment data for 40,596 Medicare HH patients, we model incident ADRD diagnosis within 1 year of HH via multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among HH patients without diagnosed ADRD, 10% received an incident diagnosis within 1 year. In adjusted models, patients were three times more likely to receive an incident ADRD diagnosis if they had HH clinician‐reported impaired overall cognition (compared to patients without reported impairment) and twice as likely if they were community‐referred (compared to hospital‐referred patients).

DISCUSSION

There is a pressing need to develop tailored HH clinical pathways and protect access to community‐referred HH to support community‐living older adults with early‐stage/undiagnosed ADRD.
Performance‐Advantaged Stereoregular Recyclable Plastics Enabled by Aluminum‐Catalytic Ring‐Opening Polymerization of Dithiolactone
Authors: Zhu Yinuo , Li Maosheng , Wang Yanchao , Wang Xianhong , Tao Youhua
Published: April 2023

Chemically recyclable polymers that can depolymerize into their constituent monomers are attractive candidates to replace non‐recyclable petroleum‐derived plastics. However, the physical properties and mechanical strengths of depolymerizable polymers are commonly insufficient for practical applications. Here we demonstrate that by proper ligand design and modification, aluminum complexes can catalyse stereoretentive ring‐opening polymerization of dithiolactone, yielding highly isotactic polythioesters with molar masses up to 45.5 kDa. This material can form crystalline stereocomplex with a Tm of 94.5 °C, and exhibits mechanical performances comparable to petroleum‐based low density polyethylene. Exposure of the polythioester to aluminum precatalyst used to synthesized it resulted in depolymerization to pristine chiral dithiolactone. Experimental and computational studies suggest that aluminum complexes have appropriate binding affinity with sulfide propagating species, thereby avoiding catalyst poisoning and minimizing epimerization reactions, which has not been accessible using other metal catalysts. Overall, aluminum catalysis provides access to performance‐advantaged stereoregular recyclable plastics as a promising alternative to petrochemical plastics, thus incentivizing improved plastic sustainability.
Feinabstimmung der Redoxeigenschaften von heteroleptischen Molybdän‐Komplexen mittels Ligand‐Ligand‐Kooperativität
Authors: Elvers Benedict J. , Pätsch Sebastian , Bandaru Siva S. M. , Krewald Vera , Schulzke Carola , Fischer Christian
Published: April 2023

Heteroleptische Molybdänkomplexe mit 1,5‐Diaza‐3,7‐Diphosphacyclooctan (P2N2) und non‐innocent (nicht‐unschuldigen) Dithiolenliganden wurden synthetisiert und elektrochemisch charakterisiert. Dabei wurde festgestellt, dass die Reduktionspotentiale der Komplexe durch einen synergistischen Effekt moduliert werden, welcher durch DFT‐Berechnungen als Ligand‐Ligand‐Kooperativität über nicht‐kovalente Wechselwirkungen identifiziert werden konnte. Dieses Ergebnis konnte durch elektrochemische Studien in Kombination mit UV/Vis‐Spektroskopie und temperaturabhängiger NMR‐Spektroskopie bestätigt werden. Das beobachtete Verhalten erinnert an eine enzymatische Redoxmodulation durch Effekte basierend auf Interaktionen in der zweiten Ligandensphäre.
The Nephelauxetic Effect Becomes an Important Design Factor for Photoactive First‐Row Transition Metal Complexes
Authors: Sinha Narayan , Yaltseva Polina , Wenger Oliver S.
Published: April 2023

The expansion of d‐orbitals as a result of metal‐ligand bond covalence, the so‐called nephelauxetic effect, is a well‐established concept of coordination chemistry, yet its importance for the design of new photoactive complexes based on first‐row transition metals is only beginning to be recognized. Until recently, much focus has been on optimizing the ligand field strength, coordination geometries, and molecular rigidity, but now it becomes evident that the nephelauxetic effect can be a game changer regarding the photophysical properties of 3d metal complexes in solution at room temperature. In CrIII and MnIV complexes with the d3 valence electron configuration, the nephelauxetic effect was exploited to shift the well‐known ruby‐like red luminescence to the near‐infrared spectral region. In FeII and CoIII complexes with the low‐spin d6 electron configuration, charge‐transfer excited states were stabilized with respect to detrimental metal‐centered excited states, to improve their properties and to enhance their application potential. In isoelectronic (3d6) isocyanide complexes of Cr0 and MnI, the nephelauxetic effect is likely at play as well, enabling luminescence and other favorable photoreactivity. This minireview illustrates the broad applicability of the nephelauxetic effect in tailoring the photophysical and photochemical properties of new coordination compounds made from abundant first‐row transition metals.
Ordered Mesoporous Intermetallic Ga‐Pt Nanoparticles: Phase‐Controlled Synthesis and Performance in Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysis
Authors: Lv Hao , Zheng Yuenan , Wang Yanzhi , Wang Jianli , Liu Ben , Qiao Zhen‐An
Published: April 2023

The intermetallic phase control is a promising strategy to optimize the physicochemical properties of ordered intermetallic compounds and engineer their performance in various (electro)catalytic reactions. However, the intermetallic phase‐dependent catalytic performance is still rarely reported because of the difficulty in synthesizing ordered intermetallics with precisely controlled phase structures at atomic level, especially having ordered mesoscopic structure/morphology. Here, we successfully reported a precise synthesis of two phase‐pure mesoporous intermetallic gallium‐platinum (meso‐i‐Ga‐Pt) nanoparticles, including meso‐i‐Ga3Pt5 with an orthorhombic space group and meso‐i‐Ga1Pt1 with a non‐symmorphic chiral cubic space group. The intermetallic phase control of ordered meso‐i‐Ga‐Pt nanoparticles was realized by carefully tuning the induced Ga salts with different anions that optimized the free energies during the synthesis. The intermetallic phase‐dependent catalytic performance of ordered meso‐i‐Ga‐Pt was systematically evaluated for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysis, with completely opposite catalytic performance in alkaline media. Interestingly, ordered meso‐i‐Ga1Pt1 catalyst with chiral atomic arrangements disclosed unexpected high ORR activity and stability with 5.9 and 3.2 enhancement factors in mass activity compared to those of meso‐i‐Ga3Pt5 and commercial Pt/C.
Effect of Zn2+ salt bonding on thermo‐reversible self‐healing natural rubber
Authors: Mohd Sani Noor Faezah , Thajudin Nuur Laila Najwa , Hayeemasae Nabil , Shuib Raa Khimi
Published: April 2023

A series of intrinsic self‐healing natural rubber (NR) integrated with thermo‐reversible (zinc) Zn2+ salt bonding networks was successfully fabricated via reversible ionic interaction approach. The formation of Zn2+ salt bonding in the rubber networks was evidenced by FTIR analysis. The developed materials showed excellent self‐healing capability as the properties could recover up to 76% under tensile mode and 100% under tear mode and fatigue. The crosslink density of self‐healing NR‐g‐MAA/ZT rubber obtained from the swelling test evident that interaction between NR‐g‐MAA and zinc thiolate (ZT) increased with the self‐healing ability of the materials. SEM images suggested the occurrence of chain diffusion between the fracture interfaces when the broken pieces were brought in contact with each other's. The reconnection of ionic salt bonding is expected to allow rearrangements of rubber segments, which turns NR‐g‐MAA into potential self‐healing rubber materials.
Indication of Activated Senescence Pathways in the Temporal Arteries of Patients With Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Jiemy William F. , van Sleen Yannick , Graver Jacoba C. , Pringle Sarah , Brouwer Elisabeth , van der Geest K. S. M. , Cornec Divi , Boots Annemieke M. H. , Sandovici Maria
Published: April 2023

Objective

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) affects almost exclusively individuals above 50 years old, suggesting a role of aging‐related changes such as cellular senescence in its pathobiology. The kinases p21(WAF1/CIP1) and p16/INK4A play key roles in 2 distinct pathways leading to senescence. The proinflammatory molecules interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF), which are key components of the senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP), are effective targets of treatment in GCA. Here, we aimed to investigate the presence of p21+ and p16+ cells producing these SASP cytokines in temporal artery biopsies (TABs) of patients with GCA.

Methods

Eight patients with GCA and 14 age‐matched, non‐GCA individuals who underwent a TAB were included. Immunohistochemical staining of p21, p16, IL‐6, and GM‐CSF was performed. Multiplex immunofluorescent staining was performed to investigate the colocalization of p21 and p16 with IL‐6, GM‐CSF, and immune cell markers (CD68, CD3, CD20).

Results

We found that expression levels of p16, p21, IL‐6, and GM‐CSF were elevated in the TABs of patients with GCA. Both p16‐ and p21‐expressing cells were mainly found near the internal lamina elastica, especially among giant cells and macrophages, although p21 and p16 expression could be found in all 3 layers of the vessels. Expression of p16 and p21 was occasionally found in T cells but not B cells. The p16+ and p21+ cells expressing GM‐CSF/IL‐6 were detected throughout the TABs.

Conclusion

Our data suggest the presence of activated senescence pathways at the site of vascular inflammation in GCA and support further research into the role of senescence in the pathophysiology of GCA.
Electronic structure and defect‐induced luminescence study of phase‐stabilized t‐ZrO2 nanocrystals
Authors: Thakur Maneshwar , Vij Ankush , Kumar Akshay , Koo Bon Heun , Singh Fouran , Rangra Vir Singh
Published: April 2023

Luminescent tetragonal‐ZrO2 (t‐ZrO2) nanocrystals were synthesized using an optimized combustion method without post‐synthesis annealing and characterized using X‐ray diffraction, electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV–Vis. spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, thermoluminescence (TL), and vibrating sample magnetometry. The as‐synthesized t‐ZrO2 nanocrystals have a bandgap of 4.65 eV and exhibit defect‐assisted blue emission (Commission Internationale de I'Elcairage coordinates 0.2294, 0.1984) when excited at 270 nm. The defect states were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using TL after irradiating nanocrystals with γ‐ and UV radiations at various doses. The TL glow curves show intense emission in the high‐temperature region from 523 to 673 K for both UV‐ and γ‐irradiated samples; however, another less‐intense TL peak was also observed in the low‐temperature region from 333 to 453 K with γ irradiation at higher doses, indicating the formation of shallow trapping states. The activation energies, frequency factor, and order of kinetics were estimated using the computerized glow curve deconvolution method for the shallow and deep traps for γ‐ and UV‐irradiated samples. The present study shows that phase‐stabilized t‐ZrO2 nanocrystals are potential candidates for luminescence‐based applications.
A rapid and convenient sample preparation method for the analysis of cannabinoids in oral fluid samples
Authors: Reinstadler Vera , Huber Susanne , Lierheimer Stefan , Boettcher Michael , Rüscher Peter , Tanzer Martin , Jenny Kurt , Zoll Adolf , Gruber Wilhelm , Oberacher Herbert
Published: April 2023

Cannabis is the world's most used illegal drug. The main psychoactive component of cannabis is Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). To aid the identification of cannabis‐impaired individuals, a simple but effective workflow for reliable quantification of THC and its metabolites in oral fluid samples collected with the Greiner Bio‐One Saliva Collection System is presented. Sampling involves rinsing the oral cavity with an extraction solution containing a citrate buffer stimulating salivary flow. Sample processing targeted the cannabinoid fraction interacting with proteins and other insoluble constituents that can be separated by centrifugation. Approximately 50% of the total amount of cannabinoids included in the oral fluid was recovered from the obtained pellet by extraction with acetonitrile. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was used for cannabinoid quantification. Fitness of the developed workflow for application in forensic and clinical cannabis testing was demonstrated by evaluating multiple performance parameters, including selectivity, linearity, limits of quantification (LOQs), accuracy, precision, matrix effects, extraction recoveries, process efficiencies and stability. Furthermore, sensitivity and specificity of the developed oral fluid−based cannabis test was demonstrated by analysing 195 samples collected either from opioid addicts or persons suspected of driving under the influence of drugs. The accuracy of identifying a person with the presence of THC in blood was found to be 97.9%.
Prosocial motives of solar entrepreneurs combating energy poverty in South Africa
Authors: Akinboade Oludele Akinloye , Taft Trevor , Weber Johann Friedrich , Ngoepe‐Ntsoane Mokgadi , Molobi Victor Sannyboy
Published: April 2023

This study seeks to examine the prosocial motives of solar energy entrepreneurs as they generate energy to combat energy poverty in South Africa. Using a qualitative research method, data, in words of survey participants, were collected from social purpose and profitable solar energy businesses using a semi‐structured interviews technique. These represent the reality of the interviewed Social Entrepreneurs because their societal world deals mainly with socially constructed issues. A pre‐developed “codebook” forms the basis to build categories of social issues and to consequently amalgamate codes into umbrella themes that enable researchers carry out structured and systematic contextual analysis. Motivated by innate feelings of compassion, empathy and extrinsic concerns for the environment, solar entrepreneurs embark on social venturing to collaborate with municipalities to deliver public services, to the group of vulnerable energy poor South Africans gain access to public benefits, like access to clean energy, which are frequently out of reach of township as well as slum dwellers operating mainly in the informal sector. This study contributes to our understanding of how solar energy entrepreneurs operate and adapt to the complexity of public energy service delivery venture in South Africa.
A theory of credible cross‐temporal corporate commitments as goal‐based private sustainability governance
Authors: Grabs Janina
Published: April 2023

Goal‐based corporate supply chain commitments to zero‐deforestation, carbon neutrality, or sustainable sourcing have become important elements of businesses' sustainability and reputation management practices. However, we still know little about the conditions under which such cross‐temporal commitments are likely to be successful. This article introduces commitment credibility as a crucial but understudied antecedent of success. Drawing on the economic theory of imagined futures, it shows how cross‐temporal signaling via commitments may change suppliers' expectations and related actions and thereby co‐create more sustainable futures. By using insights from credible commitment theory, it argues that this pathway relies on high motivational and/or imperative credibility of the committed company. Contrasting the example of zero‐deforestation commitments in the palm oil sector with commitments to sustainable seafood and no farmworker exploitation, it highlights that the involvement of critical stakeholders (as external accountability partners or third‐party implementing agents) is of particularly high importance for on‐the‐ground success.
Evaluations of competence to stand trial are evolving amid a national “competency crisis”
Authors: Murrie Daniel C. , Gowensmith W. Neil , Kois Lauren E. , Packer Ira K.
Published: April 2023

Across the United States, court orders for competence to stand trial (CST) evaluations and competence restoration services have been increasing much more rapidly than states can provide these services, prompting what has been called a national “competency crisis.” The challenge in providing timely competence restoration services has, in several jurisdictions, prompted a change in competence evaluations. Evaluators are more often required to address broader clinical issues—such as recommending placement or addressing the urgency of hospitalization—rather than addressing only CST. This marks an evolving practice in forensic evaluation, which moves evaluators beyond the very narrow forensic question of competence and into more traditionally clinical recommendations. We describe several state examples of changing practice in order to highlight the initial barriers, and potential benefits, to addressing additional clinical issues in competence evaluations, amid a national competence crisis.
A polymer‐based systemic hemostat for managing uncontrolled bleeding
Authors: Gao Yongsheng , Ikeda‐Imafuku Mayumi , Zhao Zongmin , Joshi Maithili , Mitragotri Samir
Published: April 2023

Uncontrolled bleeding is a life‐threatening emergency that requires immediate intervention. Currently available on‐site bleeding interventions largely rely on the use of tourniquets, pressure dressing, and other topical hemostatic agents, which can only treat bleeding injuries that are known, accessible, and potentially compressible. Synthetic hemostats that are stable at room temperature, easy to carry, field‐usable, and able to stop internal bleeding at multiple or unknown sources, are still lacking. We recently developed a hemostatic agent via polymer peptide interfusion (HAPPI), which can selectively bind to activated platelets and injury sites after intravascular administration. Here we report that HAPPI is highly effective in treating multiple lethal traumatic bleeding conditions in normal as well as hemophilia models via either systemic administration or topical application. In a rat liver traumatic model, intravenous injection of HAPPI resulted in a significant decrease in blood loss and a four‐fold reduction in mortality rate within 2 h after injury. When applied topically on liver punch biopsy wounds in heparinized rats, HAPPI achieved a 73% of reduction in blood loss and a five‐fold increase in survival rate. HAPPI also exhibited hemostatic efficacy in hemophilia A mice by reducing blood loss. Further, HAPPI worked synergistically with rFVIIa to induce immediate hemostasis and 95% reduction in total blood loss compared to the saline‐treated group in hemophelia mice models. These results demonstrate that HAPPI is a promising field‐usable hemostatic agent for a broad range of different hemorrhagic conditions.
Features of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and antisocial behaviour in a general population‐based sample of adults
Authors: Dayan Haym , Shoham Rachel , Berger Itai , Khoury‐Kassabri Mona , Pollak Yehuda
Published: April 2023

Background

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is known to be a risk factor for antisocial and delinquent behaviour, but there is still a lack of information on how features of ADHD relate to offending behaviour among adults not already defined by their offending.

Aims

Our aim was to add to knowledge about relationships between ADHD and antisocial behaviour among adults in the general population by answering the following questions: (A) Does the level of self‐reported ADHD features relate to criminal and non‐criminal antisocial behaviour? (B) To what extent are self‐ratings of ADHD features independent of socio‐demographic features previously identified as predictors of antisocial behaviour?

Methods

A sample of adults was originally recruited to study public response to the COVID‐19 outbreak through an online panel to be representative of the Israeli population. Among other scales, the 2025 participants completed an ADHD self‐report scale, an antisocial behaviour self‐report scale and a socio‐demographic questionnaire probing for age, gender, urbanity, place of birth, socioeconomic status (education and income), family status (being in a relationship and having children) and religiosity.

Results

Higher mean totals for the inattention and hyperactivity ADHD scale scores were associated with higher mean antisocial behaviour scores. These relationships were only slightly affected by socio‐demographic variables, including sex, age, education and income.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that not only may features of ADHD, even below a diagnostic threshold, constitute a risk factor for antisocial behaviour, but also that the self‐rated levels of these problems covary. These findings are important for informing the early detection of risk of antisocial behaviour in the general population and its prevention.
Effects of milling condition on nutritional, physicochemical, and textural properties of highland barley grains
Authors: Fu Shijian , Liu Xinru , Deng Jiawen , Chen Zhicheng , Zhao Beibei , Li Hua
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives

A lower degree milling to obtain cereal grains with acceptable cooking qualities was recommended for the higher retainment of bioactive compounds. The aim of this work was to investigate effects of milling condition on nutritional, physicochemical and cooking qualities of highland barley (HB) grains.

Findings

Effects of tempering results showed that increased water addition amount caused decrease in degree of milling (DOM) and increase in head rice yield (HRY). Effects of milling condition results showed that activities of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) showed significantly decreasing tendency as DOM increased. When DOM increased from 0% to 8%, the POD activity decreased from 140 to 3.75 Ug−1 min−1, with inactivation rate of 97.3%. Milling also witnessed a 70.1% reduction of PPO activity, from 27.74 to 8.30 Ug−1 min−1. Pasting results showed that viscosity parameters gradually increased and pasting temperature decreased as DOM increased. Texture results showed that the hardness, gumminess and chewiness of HB grains gradually decreased with the increase of DOM, while there was no significant difference in resilience, adhesiveness and springiness.

Conclusions

Based on the nutritional, physicochemical and cooking qualities of HB grains, the optimal milling condition of HB grains was fixed at 6% of tempering water, 10 min of tempering time and 10% of DOM.
Dendritic Organosilica Nanoparticle‐Based Metal‐Enzyme Hybrid Catalyst for Chemoenzymatic Deracemization of Cyclic Amines
Authors: Dong Lele , Zhou Liya , Liu Guanhua , Gao Jing , Bai Jing , Liu Yunting , Jiang Yanjun
Published: April 2023

The synthesis of enantiopure chiral cyclic amines is of critical importance but highly challenging. In this study, a metal‐enzyme hybrid catalyst was fabricated by the co‐immobilization of palladium nanoparticles and monoamine oxidases on dendritic organosilica nanoparticles (DONs) for chemoenzymatic deracemization, furnishing a panel of chiral cyclic amines in high enantioselectivities (96–98 % ee). Catalyst optimization revealed that the ultra‐high specific surface area, mesoporous channels and hydrophobic microenvironment of the DONs are responsible for the improved catalyst stability, activity and catalytic efficiency.
The impact of implantable cardioverter defibrillator on the prognosis of nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy patients compared with standard medical treatments
Authors: Salehi Omran Hossein , Naghashzadeh Farah , Irilouzadian Rana , Dolatshahi Sina , Hedayati Goudarzi Mohammad Taghi , Salehi Omran Mohammad Taghi
Published: April 2023

Background

Patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) are susceptible to arrhythmias and implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) in addition to medical treatments may help prevent sudden cardiac death (SCD) and improve survival in this population.

Hypothesis

We aim to investigate the impact of ICD insertion on survival and prognosis of patients with nonischemic DCM.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from patients with nonischemic DCM treated with medical therapy with or without ICD who referred to our hospital from January 2020 to November 2021. Patients were divided based on the treatment that they had received into two equal groups. Different variables including demographic features, comorbidities, medical treatments, hospitalization rate, function class, and left ventricular ejection fraction before and after treatments were investigated in this study. In addition, variables in survival including overall survival (OS) and SCD were compared between the two groups.

Results

A total of 120 patients were investigated in this study. Mean ± SD of age and follow‐up time of patients were 64.0 ± 12.7 years old and 61.2 ± 15.9 months, respectively. Ten (16.7%) patients with medical therapy, and seven (11.7%) patients with ICD and medical therapy died during the follow‐up period (p = 0.25). However, the two groups had a significant difference regarding SCD (11.7% vs. 1.7%, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

In patients with nonischemic DCM who had undergone ICD insertion in addition to standard medical treatments, SCD was significantly reduced compared with patients receiving just medical treatments. OS had no significant difference between our two studied groups.
Step‐Economical Mechanosynthesis of Hybrid Azoles: Deciphering Their π‐Orbital and Pharmacological Characteristics
Authors: Sundaramoorthy Ramachandran , Vadivelu Murugan , Thirumoorthy Kulandaivel , Karthikeyan Kesavan , Praveen Chandrasekar
Published: April 2023

A hybrid pharmacophore strategy for unifying 1,2,3‐triazole with 1,2,4‐triazole cores to prepare mixed triazoles was accomplished by a ball‐milling approach. The developed chemistry works under the catalysis of cupric oxide nanoparticles with salient features like one‐jar operation, lower number of synthetic steps, catalyst recyclability, time‐dependent product control, and good overall yields. π‐Orbital properties based on theoretical calculations supported the suitability of these molecules for pharmacological screening. Therefore, the biological potency of the synthesized molecules was evaluated for antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐diabetic activities. By virtue of their proton‐donating tendency, all compounds showed promising radical‐scavenging activity with the inhibition level reaching up to 90 %. These molecular hybrids also exhibited anti‐inflammatory and anti‐diabetic potencies similar to those of standard compounds, owing to their electron‐rich nature. Finally, α‐amylase inhibitory potential was demonstrated in silico; significant regions necessary for enzyme inhibition were identified by hydrogen bonding interactions.
Synthesis of Modular Desferrioxamine Analogues and Evaluation of Zwitterionic Derivatives for Zirconium Complexation
Authors: Outzen Lasse , Münzmay Moritz , Frangioni John V. , Maison Wolfgang
Published: April 2023

The natural siderophore desferrioxamine B (DFOB) has been used for targeted PET imaging with 89Zr before. However, Zr‐DFOB has a limited stability and a number of derivatives have been developed with improved chelation properties for zirconium. We describe the synthesis of pseudopeptidic analogues of DFOB with azido side chains. These are termed AZA‐DFO (hexadentate) and AZA‐DFO* (octadentate) and are assembled via a modular synthesis from Orn‐β‐Ala and Lys‐β‐Ala. Nine different chelators have been conjugated to zwitterionic moieties by copper‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC). The resulting water‐soluble chelators form Zr complexes under mild conditions (room temperature for 90 min). Transchelation assays with 1000‐fold excess of EDTA and 300‐fold excess of DFOB revealed that a short spacing of hydroxamates in (Orn‐β‐Ala)3–4 leads to improved complex stability compared to a longer spacing in (Lys‐β‐Ala)3–4. We found that the alignment of amide groups in the pseudopeptide backbone and the presence of zwitterionic sidechains did not compromise the stability of the Zr‐complexes with our chelators. We believe that the octadentate derivative AZA‐DFO* is particularly valuable for the preparation of new Zr‐chelators for targeted imaging which combine tunable pharmacokinetic properties with high complex stability and fast Zr‐complexation kinetics.