bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glucose Tolerance, Antiprotease Activity and Total Oxidant/Antioxidant Capacity Studies of β‐Glucosidase Hybrid Nanoflower for Industrial Applications
Authors: Gülmez Canan
Published: June 2022

β‐Glycosidases, which catalyse the hydrolysis of glycoside bonds, have a wide spectrum of industrial applications. However, the reaction product glucose inhibits the activities of many β‐glucosidases. Consequently, the reduced catalytic activities of the enzyme limit the industrial applications of the enzymes. For that reason, the studies dealing with maintaining the activities of the relevant enzymes at high glucose concentrations are a great interest among the researchers. In this context, herein, protein‐inorganic hybrid nanoflowers were synthesized using β‐glucosidase and copper ion by fast sonication method for 10 min. After characterization of synthesized nanoflowers, pH/temperature studies, glucose tolerance, anti‐protease activity, recyclability and total antioxidant and total oxidative capacity levels were estimated. Accordingly, the optimum pHs of free β‐glucosidase and hybrid nanoflower (β‐GNF) were found to be 6 and 5, respectively, and the optimum temperature values for both hybrid nanoflowers and free enzyme were 40 °C. β‐GNF exhibited better activity than free enzyme in low acidic and alkaline environment and at high temperature. The nanoflower retained nearly all (99 %) of its initial activity at all glucose concentrations (0.01, 0.05 and 0.1 mg/mL), especially at pH 5 and 6. Also, β‐GNF maintained more than 90 % of initial activity at 0.01 and 0.05 mg/mL glucose at pH 4 and 7. It also displayed about 96 % high residual activity after proteinase K treatment for 3 h at 37 °C, while that of the free β‐glucosidase was about 87 %. The reusability studies showed that β‐GNF only lost ∼28 % of its initial activities at the end of five cycles. The hybrid nanoflowers at 5 mg/mL concentration exhibited the high total antioxidant capacity. In addition, low total oxidant capacity and oxidative stress index levels were recorded at the same concentration of the hybrid nanoflower. The findings of the present study revealed that β‐GNFs may be evaluated as a candidate for various industrial applications due to its high glucose tolerance, anti‐protease activity, reusability and resistance to low acidic/alkaline environment and high temperature.
Histidine Ligated Iron‐Sulfur Peptides
Authors: Valer Luca , Rossetto Daniele , Parkkila Taylor , Sebastianelli Lorenzo , Guella Graziano , Hendricks Amber L. , Cowan James A. , Sang Lingzi , Mansy Sheref S.
Published: June 2022

Iron‐sulfur clusters are thought to be ancient cofactors that could have played a role in early protometabolic systems. Thus far, redox active, prebiotically plausible iron‐sulfur clusters have always contained cysteine ligands to the cluster. However, extant iron‐sulfur proteins can be found to exploit other modes of binding, including ligation by histidine residues, as seen with [2Fe‐2S] Rieske and MitoNEET proteins. Here, we investigated the ability of cysteine‐ and histidine‐containing peptides to coordinate a mononuclear Fe2+ center and a [2Fe‐2S] cluster and compare their properties with purified iron‐sulfur proteins. The iron‐sulfur peptides were characterized by UV‐vis, circular dichroism, and paramagnetic NMR spectroscopies and cyclic voltammetry. Small (≤6 amino acids) peptides can coordinate [2Fe‐2S] clusters through a combination of cysteine and histidine residues with similar reduction potentials as their corresponding proteins. Such complexes may have been important for early cell‐like systems.
Why double‐kissing crush should be preferred over culotte for two‐stent bifurcation stenting
Authors: Simsek Bahadir , Brilakis Emmanouil S.
Published: June 2022

Key Points

The thrombogenicity of the double‐kissing (DK) crush and culotte bifurcation stenting techniques was assessed with three different stent types using optical coherence tomography in a porcine arteriovenous shunt model.

Culotte had malapposition in the proximal main vessel, which was not observed in DK crush. Culotte also had more thrombus in the bifurcation area compared with DK crush.

DK crush may be preferable to culotte when performing bifurcation stenting using an upfront two‐stent strategy.
Should we use invasive fractional flow reserve (FFR), imaging, or both to determine the significance of a “borderline” lesion?
Authors: Grines Cindy L. , Kern Morton J.
Published: June 2022

Key Points

Anatomy and physiology do not correlate well for the borderline stenosis.

FFR (and NHPR) identify patients who will benefit more than those undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) based on anatomy alone.

For the borderline lesion in the SIHD patient, apply physiology for when to treat, and anatomy (imaging) for how to treat.
Aggregation Modes of Chiral Diketopyrrolo[3,4‐c]pyrrole Dyes in Solution and Thin Films
Authors: Albano Gianluigi , Zinna Francesco , Urraci Francesco , Capozzi Maria Annunziata M. , Pescitelli Gennaro , Punzi Angela , Di Bari Lorenzo , Farinola Gianluca M.
Published: June 2022

The chiroptical features of chiral diketopyrrolo[3,4‐c]pyrrole (DPP) derivatives have been only marginally investigated to date. In this regard, we have synthesizedad hocfour chiral DPP dyes, functionalized with enantiopure alkyl groups from natural sources either on the lactam moieties or on the terminal positions of the π‐conjugated backbone, to promote an efficient self‐assembly into chiral supramolecular structures. For each of them, the aggregation modes has been investigated by absorbance and ECD spectroscopies in conditions of solution aggregation and on thin films, considering the effects of deposition technique (drop casting vs. spin coating) and post‐deposition operations (solvent and thermal annealing). The effect of the structure of lateral π‐conjugated units attached to the central DPP scaffold, as well as that of the position of the alkyl chiral group, has been assessed. ECD revealed superior capability, compared to absorbance spectroscopy, to provide information on the aggregation modes and to detect the possible co‐existence of multiple aggregation pathways.
First‐order inverse filters: Implementations using a single voltage conveyor and potential applications
Authors: Psychalinos Costas , Minaei Shahram , Yesil Abdullah
Published: June 2022

First‐order low pass and high pass inverse filter topologies, offering simplicity and independent adjustment of the gain and the characteristic frequency, are introduced in this work. These features are offered thanks to the terminals properties of the second generation voltage conveyor. In addition, possible applications of these types of filters are exploited. The behavior of a control system, where these filters are incorporated, is evaluated in both frequency and time‐domain using the Cadence IC design suite.
Arterial stiffness indices in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Christoforidis Athanasios , Georeli Irene , Dimitriadou Meropi , Galli‐Tsinopoulou Assimina , Stabouli Stella
Published: June 2022

Aims

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents the most frequent cause of morbidity and mortality among patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Our aim was to review the evidence and conduct a meta‐analysis assessing measures of arterial stiffness by pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index (AIx) in children and adolescents with T1DM compared to healthy controls.

Methods

PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched for relevant studies published up to 10 May 2021.

Results

Twenty‐one studies were finally included in the meta‐analysis. The T1DM group had significantly higher carotid to femoral PWV levels than that of the control group (mean difference [d]: 0.53 CI: 0.35–0.71, P < 0.00001) but with a fair heterogeneity (I 2:73%). By omitting one study with marked heterogeneity, mean difference in cfPWV remained significantly increased in the T1DM group compared to the control group (mean difference [d]: 0.37 CI: 0.27–0.48, P < 0.00001) but with improved heterogeneity (I2 = 26%). Regarding Aix, the T1DM group had a significantly higher AI@75 index than that of the control group (mean difference [d]: 0.28 CI: 0.17–0.39, P < 0.00001) and with no heterogeneity (I 2 = 8%).

Conclusions

Youths with T1DM show increased arterial stiffness, either as increased carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity or increased augmentation index, early in their course of life compared to healthy controls.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021253236
Effect of Molecular Shape on the Properties of Indolo[3,2,1‐jk]carbazole‐Based Compounds
Authors: Wang Yuannan , Zhang Gang
Published: June 2022

A concave indolo[3,2,1‐jk]carbazole‐based compound was synthesized and characterized, which was further compared with the property of its planar congener. The results reveal that the change in molecular shape alters the molecular electronic structure, thus leading to the reduced aromaticity and divergent energy levels of frontier molecular orbitals of the concave compound. Moreover, the bowl‐shaped molecule demonstrates a blue‐shift in the UV/Vis absorption and a red‐shift in the weakened fluorescence emission due to the vibration of the concave face.
Revealing Kinetics Process of Fast Charge‐Storage Behavior Associated with Potential in 2D Polyaniline
Authors: Xu Peng , Hong Xufeng , Zhu Zhe , Ouyang Huifang , Zhou Zhiyuan , Geng Lishan , Xu Nuo , Duan Yixue , Lv Linfeng , He Liang
Published: June 2022

Clarifying the electrode kinetics and thermodynamic processes of 2D materials in electrochemical energy‐storage system becomes an important topic, especially for the system with complex and interlaced electrochemical processes. One single analytical method can hardly describe the diffusion‐controlled and interface‐reaction‐controlled process. Hence, the tungstate‐linked polyaniline, a novel 2D conductive polymer with obvious Faradaic reaction, is introduced, as the research object. Based on the multi‐scan rate cyclic voltammetry data, the applicable rules of different electrochemical kinetic treatment methods are proved effectively: the rate fitting equation based on theoretical capacitance calibration is more suitable to describe the kinetic behavior of interface‐reaction‐controlled process, while the power–law relationship based on the b value is more reasonable to study the diffusion‐controlled process. Moreover, the higher capacitance of the electrode materials in acidic electrolyte is emphasized via in situ electrochemical testing techniques. Proton intercalation and participating in the redox reaction can obviously accelerate the electrode process. The developed multidimensional assessment method is superior in more accurate analysis of the kinetics of electrochemical energy‐storage devices.
Old World Vultures Reflect Effects of Environmental Pollutants Through Human Encroachment
Authors: Krüger Sonja C. , Botha Andre , Bowerman William , Coverdale Brent , Gore Meredith L. , van den Heever Linda , Shaffer L. Jen , Smit-Robinson Hanneline , Thompson Lindy J. , Ottinger Mary Ann
Published: June 2022

African wildlife face challenges from many stressors including current and emerging contaminants, habitat and resource loss, poaching, intentional and unintentional poisoning, and climate-related environmental change. The plight of African vultures exemplifies these challenges due to environmental contaminants and other stressors acting on individuals and populations that are already threatened or endangered. Many of these threats emanate from increasing human population size and settlement density, habitat loss from changing land use for agriculture, residential areas, and industry, and climate-related changes in resource availability. Environmental chemicals that are hazardous include legacy chemicals, emerging chemicals of concern, and high-volume-use chemicals that are employed as weed killers and in other agricultural applications. Furthermore, there are differences in risk for species living in close proximity to humans or in areas affected by habitat loss, climate, and industry. Monitoring programs are essential to track the status of nesting pairs, offspring survival, longevity, and lifetime productivity. This is important for long-lived birds, such as vultures, that may be especially vulnerable to chronic exposure to chemicals as obligate scavengers. Furthermore, their position in the food web may increase risk due to biomagnification of chemicals. We review the primary chemical hazards to Old World vultures and the interacting stressors affecting these and other birds. Habitat is a major consideration for vultures, with tree-nesters and cliff-nesters potentially experiencing different risks of exposure to environmental chemicals. The present review provides information from long-term monitoring programs and discusses a range of these threats and their effects on vulture populations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1586–1603. © 2022 SETAC
Identification of a novelPHIP::BRAFgene fusion in infantile fibrosarcoma
Authors: Boulouadnine Boutaina , de Villenfagne Laurence , Galant Christine , Sciot Raphael , Brichard Bénédicte , Demoulin Jean‐Baptiste
Published: June 2022

Introduction

TheETV6::NTRK3fusion is the most common gene alteration in infantile fibrosarcoma, a soft tissue tumor affecting patients under two years of age. Less frequently, these tumors harbor fusions of genes encoding other kinases, such asBRAF, which activates MEK in the mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway. The identification and characterization of these oncogenes are crucial to facilitate diagnosis, validate new treatments, and better understand the pathophysiology of these neoplasms.

Methods

Herein, we analyzed anETV6::NTRK3‐negative infantile fibrosarcoma from a 5‐day‐old patient by RNA‐sequencing to identify new fusion transcripts. Functional exploration of the fusion of interest was performed byin vitroassays to study its activity, oncogenicity, and sensitivity to the MEK inhibitor trametinib.

Results

We identified a novel fusion involving thePHIPandBRAFgenes. The corresponding fusion protein constitutively activated the mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway, resulting in fibroblast transformation. Treatment of transfected cells with trametinib effectively inhibited signaling byPHIP::BRAF.

Conclusion

PHIP::BRAFis a novel fusion oncogene that can be targeted by trametinib in infantile fibrosarcoma.
Comparison of the mechanical properties and anchoring performance of polyvinylidene fluoride and polypropylene barbed sutures for tendon repair
Authors: Huang Yihan , Cadet Edwin R. , King Martin W. , Cole Jacqueline H.
Published: June 2022

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) has been considered as an alternative suture material to replace polypropylene (PP) due to its superior biocompatibility and mechanical properties, but it has never been examined for use in barbed sutures, particularly for tendon repair. This study fabricated size 2–0 PVDF and PP bidirectional barbed sutures and compared their mechanical properties and anchoring performance in patellar tendons. The mechanical properties were evaluated via tensile testing, and the anchoring performance of the barbed sutures was assessed by a tendon suture pullout test. Sixty porcine patellar tendons were harvested, transected to mimic a full‐thickness injury, and repaired using a cross‐locked cruciate suturing technique. The ultimate tensile force was 60% higher for the PVDF barbed sutures (22.4 ± 2.1 N) than for the PP barbed sutures (14.0 ± 1.7 N). The maximum pullout force was 35% higher for PVDF barbed sutures (70.8 ± 7.8 N) than for PP barbed sutures (52.4 ± 5.8 N). The force needed to form a 2‐mm gap, indicative of repair failure, was similar between the PVDF (29.2 ± 5.0 N) and PP (25.6 ± 3.1 N) barbed sutures, but both were greater than the 2‐mm‐gap forces for non‐barbed sutures of the same size. In this study, PVDF barbed sutures provided better mechanical properties and improved tissue anchoring performance compared to the barbed PP sutures for porcine patellar tendon repair, demonstrating that PVDF monofilament sutures can be barbed and used effectively for tendon repair.
Olfactory dysfunction in COVID‐19, new insights from a cohort of 353 patients: The ANOSVID study
Authors: Mercier Julien , Osman Molka , Bouiller Kevin , Tipirdamaz Can , Gendrin Vincent , Chirouze Catherine , Lepiller Quentin , Bouvier Elodie , Royer Pierre‐Yves , Pierron Alix , Toko Lynda , Plantin Julie , Kadiane‐Oussou N'dri‐Juliette , Zayet Souheil , Klopfenstein Timothée
Published: June 2022

Olfactory disorders (OD) pathogenesis, underlying conditions, and prognostic in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) remain partially described. ANOSVID is a retrospective study in Nord Franche‐Comté Hospital (France) that included COVID‐19 patients from March 1 2020 to May 31 2020. The aim was to compare COVID‐19 patients with OD (OD group) and patients without OD (no‐OD group). A second analysis compared patients with anosmia (high OD group) and patients with hyposmia or no OD (low or no‐OD group). The OD group presented less cardiovascular and other respiratory diseases compared to the no‐OD group (odds ratio [OR] = 0.536 [0.293–0.981], p = 0.041 and OR = 0.222 [0.056–0.874], p = 0.037 respectively). Moreover, history of malignancy was less present in the high OD group compared with the low or no‐OD group (OR = 0.170 [0.064–0.455], p < 0.001). The main associated symptoms (OR > 5) with OD were loss of taste (OR = 24.059 [13.474–42.959], p = 0.000) and cacosmia (OR = 5.821 [2.246–15.085], p < 0.001). Most of all ORs decreased in the second analysis, especially for general, digestive, and ENT symptoms. Only two ORs increased: headache (OR = 2.697 [1.746–4.167], p < 0.001) and facial pain (OR = 2.901 [1.441–5.842], p = 0.002). The high OD group had a higher creatinine clearance CKD than the low or no‐OD group (89.0 ± 21.1 vs. 81.0 ± 20.5, p = 0.040). No significant difference was found concerning the virological, radiological, and severity criteria. OD patients seem to have less comorbidity, especially better cardiovascular and renal function. Associated symptoms with OD were mostly neurological symptoms. We did not find a significant relationship between OD and less severity in COVID‐19 possibly due to methodological bias.
Evaluation of nutritional quality of complementary foods formulated from blends of Nigerian yellow maize (Zea mays), soybean (Glycine max) and crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)
Authors: Adegbusi Halid Sheriff , Ismail Amin , Mohd Esa Norhaizan , Mat Daud Zulfitri Azuan
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

Plant‐based complementary foods (CFs) supply insufficient amount of nutrients to meet recommended nutrient intakes for 6–23‐month‐old children. The present study determined the nutritional quality of CFs formulated from blends of Nigerian yellow maize (Zea mays), soybean (Glycine max) and crayfish (Procambarus clarkii). Three CFs were formulated; namely, maize flour (MF, 100:0% w/w), blends of maize and soybean flour (MSF, 72:28% w/w), and maize, soybean and crayfish flour (MSCF, 80:10:10% w/w). Nutritional quality was evaluated using analyses of chemical composition of CFs and of protein quality of complementary food diets. Data were compared by multivariate analysis of variance and significantly differentiated. Nine selected nutritional criteria were used to decide the CF that had best nutritional characteristics compared to MF and fortified wheat flour (FWMF).

RESULTS

Total scores obtained from the selected nutritional criteria ranked MSCF, with total score of 15, as the lowest and thus it was considered to have the most desirable nutritional characteristics compared to MF, MSF and FWMF, which had respective total scores of 31, 22 and 20.

CONCLUSION

Conclusively, MSCF may serve as a better alternative CF for MF, MSC and FWMF. The present study has produced a potential alternative cost‐effective and adequate CF, formulated from crayfish (P. clarkii) supplementation of locally available blend of yellow maize (Z. mays) and soybean (G. max), for the poor human population, aiming to encourage the consumption of animal‐sourced CF for alleviating the prevalence of childhood undernutrition. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Knowledge management process, infrastructure, and system quality as resilient strategies to respond to COVID‐19 pandemic challenges: Evidence from higher educational institutions in India
Authors: Sivagnanam Pavithra , Pillai Arul Ramanatha , Elangovan Rajesh , Parayitam Satyanarayana
Published: June 2022

The COVID‐19 global pandemic has adversely affected educational institutions worldwide, resulting in frequent mandatory lockdowns and social distancing rules. After waiting for a brief period, most organizations, including educational institutions, moved their operations from traditional in‐class to virtual, web‐based teaching‐learning. As a result of unprecedented change, faculty, students, and administrators faced several challenges. However, how the educational institutions were coping with this challenging situation remained an important question. To address this, we present Knowledge Management Process (KMP), Knowledge Management System Infrastructure (KMSINF), and Knowledge Management System Quality (KMSQU) as resilient strategies to convert the challenges into opportunities. Using the KM processes and practices, a complex model is constructed to positively influence employee commitment, performance, and job satisfaction. A survey instrument was used to collect data from 747 faculty members from 14 higher educational institutions in the southern part of India. After testing the measurement properties using the Lisrel package of structural equation modeling, the complex model was tested using Hayes PROCESS macros. The results indicate (i) KMP is positively related to performance and employee commitment, (ii) employee commitment mediates the relationship between KMP and performance, (iii) KMSINF moderates the relationship between KMP and employee commitment, (iv) KMSQU moderates the moderated relationship between KMP and KMSINF in influencing the employee commitment, and (v) performance is positively related to job satisfaction. The results suggest that KM processes, system infrastructure, and system quality are effective, resilient strategies to bring educational institutions to normal functioning during the present global pandemic. The implications for KM, employee commitment, and job satisfaction are discussed.
Optimal zoning of managerial duopoly
Authors: Cao Hang , Wang Leonard F. S.
Published: June 2022

This paper investigates optimal zoning of two managerial firms in an unconstrained linear city. Comparing with the case in which firms are not managerial type, the strategic delegation increases the incentives of one firm to locate farther from the rival. Then, a welfare function is introduced to highlight zoning regulation as an influential competition policy tool. Depending on the regulator's objective function and the timing of location choice, we provide a new mechanism that allows the regulator to attain the optimal locations of managerial firms and can lead to strong or weak competition.
Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1 in Parkinson's Disease: A Positron Emission Tomography Study with [18F]FMPEP‐d2
Authors: Ajalin Riikka M. , Al‐Abdulrasul Haidar , Tuisku Jouni M. , Hirvonen Jussi E.S. , Vahlberg Tero , Lahdenpohja Salla , Rinne Juha O. , Brück Anna E.
Published: June 2022

Background

The endocannabinoid system is a widespread neuromodulatory system affecting several biological functions and processes. High densities of type 1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptors and endocannabinoids are found in basal ganglia, which makes them an interesting target group for drug development in basal ganglia disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate CB1 receptors in PD with [18F]FMPEP‐d2 positron emission tomography (PET) and the effect of dopaminergic medication on the [18F]FMPEP‐d2 binding.

Methods

The data consisted of 16 subjects with PD and 10 healthy control subjects (HCs). All participants underwent a [18F]FMPEP‐d2 high‐resolution research tomograph PET examination for the quantitative assessment of cerebral binding to CB1 receptors. To investigate the effect of dopaminergic medication on the [18F]FMPEP‐d2 binding, 15 subjects with PD underwent [18F]FMPEP‐d2 PET twice, both on and off antiparkinsonian medication.

Results

[18F]FMPEP‐d2 distribution volume was significantly lower in the off scan compared with the on scan in basal ganglia, thalamus, hippocampus, and amygdala (P < 0.05). Distribution volume was lower in subjects with PD off than in HCs globally (P < 0.05), but not higher than in HCs in any brain region.

Conclusions

Subjects with PD have lower CB1 receptor availability compared with HCs. PD medication increases CB1 receptor toward normal levels. © 2022 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Potential Building Blocks for 1,4‐Dihydro‐N‐heteroacenes
Authors: John Plater M. , Harrison William T. A.
Published: June 2022

Studies have been performed aimed at the synthesis ofN‐heteroacenes via substitution reactions of 4,5‐difluoro‐1,2‐dinitrobenzene with a diamine. The fluorine atoms are displaced first, followed by an activated nitro group. Two intermediates have been characterised by X‐ray single‐crystal structure determinations. Their intermolecular interactions were examined by Hirshfeld surfaces to assess their suitability for organic molecular electronics. The high reactivity of the phenazine, which is prone to oxidise and rearrange, as are displacement products prepared from it, is explained by the formation of acis‐aci‐nitroform from the secondary amine of the phenazine and a nitro group.
Enhance the mechanical properties of epoxy resin reinforced with functionalized graphene oxide nanocomposites prepared by atom transfer radical polymerization
Authors: Yang Guorui , Ma Yan , Liu Chen , Zhang Lanyue , Li Xiangwei , Du Weifeng , Shang Lei , Ao Yuhui
Published: June 2022

Inspired by the strengthening effect of nanoparticles and the toughening effect of block polymers, we prepared a block polymer filler with graphene oxide (GO) as the main body by surface initiate atom transfer radical polymerization (SI‐ATRP). In the side groups of the main molecular segment of this block polymer, glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) fragment and N‐(3,4‐bis([tert‐butyldimethylsilyl]oxy)phenethyl)methacrylamide (DOPAmTBDMS) fragment can promote dispersion and toughening respectively. The molecular structure was characterized by Fourier transform infrared and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. After the modified GO was added to the epoxy composite, the mechanical properties of the composite could be significantly improved. The toughness of epoxy composites was enhanced by crack deflection of the matrix. When the added amount of modified GO was 0.25 wt%, the flexural strength reached 151 MPa, which was 37.27% higher than pure epoxy composite. The tensile strength and izod impact strength were increased by 50.56% and 69.89%, respectively. These are attributed to the strengthening and toughening effects of GO and the side groups on it. This research had potential application value in the field of resin fillers and in combination with carbon fiber, metal and other materials.
Educational equity, academic standards, and countercontrol: Preventing academic deficits with supplemental interdependent rewards
Authors: Skinner Christopher H. , Bennett Jade , Richardson Robert , Scott Katie , Wheat Laura S. , Martinez James
Published: June 2022

School psychologists have been involved with developing and installing individual contingencies designed to remedy individual students' academic deficits. Group‐oriented contingencies can be applied to broader efforts designed to prevent learning problems class‐wide. Independent group‐oriented rewards are frequently used in school settings to enhance learning by rewarding strong academic performance (e.g., reward for each student who maintains a 90% average). Research suggests overreliance on these contingencies may not be educationally equitable because they may be less effective or ineffective in influencing the behavior and learning of students with weaker academic skills. Theoretical and applied research is analyzed which suggests that maintaining ubiquitous independent rewards and providing supplemental interdependent group‐oriented bonus rewards may allow educators to a) maintain their academic standards, b) enhance educational equity by improving learning in students who may not respond to typical independent group‐oriented rewards, and c) enhance classroom climates. Also, recommendations are provided that may allow educators to mitigate concerns over perceived unfairness associated with interdependent group‐oriented rewards.
Comparing concurrent chemoradiotherapy, 125I seed implantation combined with chemotherapy, and chemotherapy alone efficacy in treating unresectable locally advanced pancreatic cancer
Authors: Zheng Yanfen , Huang Rui , Zou Wenxue , Liu Chao , Niu Hongxin , Yue Jinbo
Published: June 2022

Background

The prognosis for unresectable locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) is still poor, and the best therapeutic option is still unknown. The common treatments for LAPC, concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), 125I seed implantation combined with chemotherapy (125IC), and chemotherapy alone (CA), were studied. In addition, we looked into the impact of radiation dose on the survival of patients receiving chemoradiotherapy.

Methods

This study included 202 patients with unresectable LAPC who were separated into three groups based on treatment methods: CCRT, 125IC, and CA. Overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were calculated using the Kaplan‐Meier and Cox regression methods. The differences between groups were analyzed using the chi‐square test and the Fisher exact test. All three groups were compared at the same time and then in pairs. To investigate the impact of radiation dose on survival, patients with CCRT were divided into groups based on radiation dose (<54.9 Gy/≥54.9 Gy) or biological effective dose (BED) of radiotherapy (<65.32 Gy/≥65.32 Gy). Univariate and multivariate analyses were also performed to explore the factors associated with prognosis.

Results

Patients who received CCRT had a superior OS rate than those who received 125IC or CA (p = 0.009). Multivariate analyses showed that ECOG score 2 (p<0.001) and 125IC (p=0.012) treatment method were substantially associated with poor OS, while being male (p=0.005) and ECOG score 2 (p<0.001) were significantly associated with poor PFS. When comparing the effects of radiation dose on survival, concurrent chemotherapy with high‐dose radiotherapy (CCHRT) was found to have a better OS rate (p=0.003) than concurrent chemotherapy with low‐dose irradiation (CCLRT). PFS, on the other hand, did not differ statistically in any of the groups (p>0.05). Multivariate analyses showed that age ≥ 64.5 years (p=0.038), ECOG score 2(p=0.001), and CCLRT (p=0.001) were significantly associated with poor OS, while being male (p=0.023) was associated with poor PFS.

Conclusions

Patients who received CCRT for unresectable LAPC had a greater OS rate than those who received 125IC or CA. Within permitted bounds, CCHRT outperformed CCLRT in terms of OS.
Divorce in transnational families: Norms, networks, and intersecting categories
Authors: Fresnoza‐Flot Asuncion , de Hart Betty
Published: June 2022

This paper highlights the originality and scholarly contributions of the present Special Issue on transnational divorces in three ways. First, it examines two sets of related literature and situates the Special Issue within them: one on divorces, in general, and the other on divorces in transnational families (also called here “transnational divorce”). This exercise identifies the scholarly tendencies and gaps needing immediate attention in the study of divorce at the present age of family (re)composition. Second, the paper discusses how the special issue addresses the lacunas in the literature through “transborder intersectionality,” that is, a combination of transnational and intersectional perspectives. And third, based on its five empirically grounded case studies, it unveils the main structuring forces in transnational divorces: norms (social and legal), networks (transnational family support, local social ties…), and intersecting categories (gender, social class, legal status…). The paper ends with research directions for the future study of divorces traversing nation‐states’ borders.
Adaptive event‐based finite‐time consensus of nonholonomic multi‐agent systems subject to unknown disturbances
Authors: Zhang Yingwen , Wang Jinhuan , Chen Guanrong
Published: June 2022

This article develops an event‐based control strategy to achieve finite‐time consensus for a chain of nonholonomic multi‐agent systems subject to unknown disturbances. First, the controller switching time is determined for the state coupling of the systems in the chain. Then, adaptive event‐based integral sliding‐mode control protocols with novel triggering functions are proposed, which can avoid the inherent singularity problem. To this end, adaptive laws are designed to deal with the disturbances without knowing exactly their upper bounds, which can adjust the gains of the controllers automatically. Moreover, an algorithm is developed to compute the sliding‐mode coefficients, adaptive parameters as well as the controller switching time. It is shown that all states of the systems in the chain can achieve consensus in finite time against disturbances. Furthermore, the Zeno behavior is proved to be excluded by showing that the inter‐execution time is lower‐bounded. Finally, a numerical example is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework and methodology.
Sliding mode control for multi‐agent systems under stochastic communication protocol
Authors: Li Wen , Niu Yugang , Cao Zhiru , Lv Xinyu
Published: June 2022

This article investigates the consensus problem for the multi‐agent system (MAS) via a sliding mode control method. The stochastic communication protocol (SCP) obeying Markovian chain is adopted to schedule the information transmission among agents, by which only one state component of each agent is stochastically selected and transmitted to other agents at each transmission instant. Through the use of the merging technique, a joint Markovian chain is introduced to model the multi‐agent consensus error system. And then, a distributed sliding mode controller is designed to achieve the stochastic consensus of the MAS. Meanwhile, the desired controller gain matrix is obtained via solving a minimization problem. Finally, a numerical example has been provided to illustrate the proposed results.
Tradition as a resource: Robust and radical interpretations of operatic tradition in the Italian opera industry, 1989–2011
Authors: Cancellieri Giulia , Cattani Gino , Ferriani Simone
Published: June 2022

Research Summary

A major challenge that organizations face in cultural industries in dealing with cherished traditions is how to best mediate between adherence to tradition and pursuit of innovation, how to accommodate renewal without stifling tradition. We address this conundrum by integrating ideas from consumer‐oriented psychological research on evaluative judgments and design‐oriented innovation research. We show that firms can improve customers' perceptions of value by offering robust interpretations of traditional products that preserve the most familiar aspects of a tradition while departing from it on more peripheral features; however, when the interpretation is more radical—that is, it alters core elements of the tradition—customers are more likely to experience incongruity with their schemas, resulting in a negative perception of value. We also postulate that different audience segments will respond differently to the (re)interpreted tradition because individuals vary in the use of generic schemas depending on their level of expertise, and different schemas may accommodate smaller or greater changes in a configuration of attributes. We develop and test these hypotheses in the context of the Italian opera industry over the period 1989 to 2011. The results offer insights into how firms can maintain a sense of continuity with a revered tradition while ensuring its renewal over time.

Managerial Summary

Reinterpreting revered traditions is a way to exploit timeless resources encased in history by recasting them in new ways. This article reveals how firms can balance tradition and innovation through the design choices they make, thus expanding the range of strategic tools that can be leveraged to influence customers' perceptions of value. In doing so, it helps managers address the need for renewal, while at the same time remaining sensitive to the heterogeneity of different customer segments, by manipulating the core and/or peripheral features of a product (here the opera). Although firms in cultural industries often face the challenge of resolving the tension between the preservation of tradition and risky innovation, many other firms across different industries also confront the issue of developing new products while building intimate links with their traditions.
Human–Machine Interfaces Based on Bioelectric Signals: A Narrative Review with a Novel System Proposal
Authors: Hayashi Hideaki , Tsuji Toshio
Published: June 2022

Bioelectric signals such as electromyogram (EMG) and electroencephalogram (EEG) reflect human internal states and intended actions, and have therefore been applied to various types of human–machine interfaces. Such biosignal‐based interfaces are beneficial because they not only allow intuitive control of machines, but can also support persons with disabilities. In this paper, we review the recent studies on human–machine interfaces based on bioelectric signals including EMG and EEG signals. Furthermore, we introduce our recent work on the development of a brain–machine interface for domestic appliance control. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Noncanonical metabolite RNA caps: Classification, quantification, (de)capping, and function
Authors: Mattay Johanna
Published: June 2022

The 5′ cap of eukaryotic mRNA is a hallmark for cellular functions from mRNA stability to translation. However, the discovery of novel 5′‐terminal RNA caps derived from cellular metabolites has challenged this long‐standing singularity in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Reminiscent of the 7‐methylguanosine (m7G) cap structure, these noncanonical caps originate from abundant coenzymes such as NAD, FAD, or CoA and from metabolites like dinucleoside polyphosphates (NpnN). As of now, the significance of noncanonical RNA caps is elusive: they differ for individual transcripts, occur in distinct types of RNA, and change in response to environmental stimuli. A thorough comparison of their prevalence, quantity, and characteristics is indispensable to define the distinct classes of metabolite‐capped RNAs. This is achieved by a structured analysis of all present studies covering functional, quantitative, and sequencing data which help to uncover their biological impact. The biosynthetic strategies of noncanonical RNA capping and the elaborate decapping machinery reveal the regulation and turnover of metabolite‐capped RNAs. With noncanonical capping being a universal and ancient phenomenon, organisms have developed diverging strategies to adapt metabolite‐derived caps to their metabolic needs, but ultimately to establish noncanonical RNA caps as another intriguing layer of RNA regulation.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Processing > Capping and 5′ End Modifications

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Turnover/Surveillance Mechanisms

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability
Benefits of Card Walls in Agile Software Development: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Sallin Marc , Kropp Martin
Published: June 2022

Card walls are often used to visualize various aspects of the software development process. They are an essential and widespread agile practice. Despite the drawback of physical card walls, its digital version is often not considered a sufficient alternative. This paper aims to find the reason for this and suggests how to evolve digital card walls into a viable alternative. We conducted a systematic literature review and analyzed twenty-two studies. We identified which desirable effects agile teams get from card wall usage and derived a set of properties a card wall needs to achieve those effects. Furthermore, we suggested a typology of card walls to compare the benefits and challenges among them.
A Countrywide Descriptive Survey of Agile Software Development in Brazil
Authors: Fontana Rafaela Mantovani , Wojciechowski Jaime , Montaño Razer Rojas , Marczak Sabrina , Reinehr Sheila , Malucelli Andreia
Published: June 2022

For years, industry institutions and academic researchers have been surveying software practitioners on agile software development methods adoption. These surveys have been useful in describing the characteristics, challenges, and impacts of agile adoption, mainly in Europe and North America. Latin American practitioners miss information on the state of agile adoption. This study aims to fill this gap by describing agile software development adoption in Brazil. We collected data from 897 countrywide-distributed practitioners. We used descriptive statistics and machine learning algorithms to understand our dataset. Results show the profile of companies and teams, characteristics of agile usage, perception of success, applied principles and practices, and reasons, challenges and impacts of agile adoption. We also explore the relevance of principles in software process improvements. We contribute by mapping the state-of-the-practice of agile adoption in Brazil and by contrasting our results to previous literature, which points out how we further current knowledge in academia.
Coordination Strategies When Working from Anywhere: A Case Study of Two Agile Teams
Authors: Sporsem Tor , Moe Nils Brede
Published: June 2022

Effective coordination is the key to successful agile teams. They rely on frequent interactions and mutual adjustment to manage dependencies between activities, which traditionally has been solved by co-locating the team. As the world is adjusting to post-covid work-life, companies are moving towards a work-from-anywhere approach where workers can choose to what degree they want to work from home or office. However, little is known about coordination in such a context. We report findings on developers’ emerging strategies when working-from-anywhere, from an exploratory case study in Norway, including eight interviews. Our study shows that new strategies for mutual adjustment emerged as teams experimented with different tools and approaches: developers chose tasks according to location, tasks with vague requirements are performed collocated while individual tasks requiring focus are best performed at home; large meetings are virtual, preserving co-located time for collaborative tasks; using virtual rooms to maintain unscheduled meetings as they communicate mental presence to teammates, lowering the threshold for intra-team unscheduled talks. The strategies can help organizations create a productive and effective environment for developers.
Safeguarding the Biodiversity Associated with Local Foodways in Traditionally Managed Socio-Ecological Production Landscapes in Kenya
Authors: Maundu Patrick , Morimoto Yasuyuki
Published: June 2022

Traditionally managed socio-ecological production landscapes (SEPLs) provide communities with a range of goods and services vital for livelihoods, including nutrition and health. In Kenya, many of these landscapes, encompassing the resources therein and the indigenous knowledge vital for optimising their value, are now under threat.

Utilising diverse traditional foods for the benefit of local communities has often been hampered by insufficient knowledge about the foods and negative attitudes towards them. For over two decades, a team from the National Museums of Kenya, Bioversity International, and their partners has been working with local communities to find out how local food resources can contribute more to community livelihoods, especially with regard to nutrition, health, and income. Understanding local food systems is a vital step. The team developed a methodology for involving local communities, and the youth in particular, to inventory their foodways. The documentation opened opportunities for research and development interventions. This chapter highlights three development and conservation case studies founded on foodways documentation: (1) promoting African leafy vegetables in Kenya; (2) safeguardingkitete(bottle gourd) by Kyanika Women’s Group in Kitui, Kenya; and (3) utilising digital technology to educate consumers about healthy eating using local foods.

All cases have shown that converting underutilised local foods into main sources of nutrition and income opportunities, as well as conserving these foods in their environment, requires foodways documentation, community participation, and multi-stakeholder and multidisciplinary collaboration. Awareness on the nutritional and health benefits of local foods was a key incentive for their conservation and a catalyst for the change in attitudes and eating habits.
Human-Nature Cooperation for Well-Being: Community Understanding on One Health Approach in the COVID-19 Era in the Sundarbans
Authors: Titumir Rashed Al Mahmud , Paran Md. Shah
Published: June 2022

This study attempts to explore the interdependent relationship between humans and nature, and to comprehend the community understanding of the “One Health” approach in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Sundarbans in Bangladesh. It explores challenges in socio-ecological production landscapes and seascapes (SEPLS) management, response of indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs), and corresponding outcomes, and also examines factors affecting the ecosystem’s balance. It particularly draws on the insights of traditional resource users (TRUs) in a part of the Sundarbans who are wood collectors (Bawali), fishermen (Jele), honey and wax collectors (Mouali), and crab collectors. The study adopts a multiple evidence base (MEB) approach in order to bring in the participatory insights of IPLCs, coupled with scientific knowledge and interdisciplinary heterodox perspectives. Based on the community conceptualisation of the One Health approach, this study demonstrates that the appropriation of nature (conservation, restoration, sustainable use, access, and benefit sharing) instead of expropriation (anthropogenic pressures) can serve as a yardstick to ensure a virtuous cycle in the ecosystem and a harmonious relationship between humans and nature. The study presents a modified One Health framework for the post-2020 period that calls for ensuring rights-oriented universal social entitlements, provision of livelihood security, and promotion of human-nature cooperation underwritten by customary sustainable practices and traditional knowledge in SEPLS management.