bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compassion Stress and the Qualitative Researcher
Authors: Rager Kathleen B.
Published: March 2005

Human subjects are carefully protected in the research process. However, the same consideration is not currently being given to the qualitative researcher, even those investigating topics that are likely to elicit powerful emotions. The role of researcher’s emotional responses and the self-care strategies that, in some circumstances, are appropriate for the researcher and other research support personnel have not received the attention they deserve in qualitative research literature. Based on experience in conducting research on the topic of self-directed learning and breast cancer, and on the limited literature available, the author makes the case for the use of strategies such as counseling, peer debriefing, and journal writing as means of dealing with the potential for “compassion stress” as experienced by the researcher and other research support personnel. She also suggests that the preparation of social science researchers should include information on appropriate self-care strategies.
Interrater Agreement Reconsidered: An Alternative to the rwg Indices
Authors: Brown Reagan D. , Hauenstein Neil M. A.
Published: March 2005

For continuous constructs, the most frequently used index of interrater agreement (r wg(1))can be problematic. Typically, rwg(1) is estimated with the assumption that a uniform distribution represents no agreement. The authors review the limitations of this uniform nullr wg(1) index and discuss alternative methods for measuring interrater agreement. A new interrater agreement statistic,a wg(1),is proposed. The authors derive thea wg(1)statistic and demonstrate thatawg(1) is an analogue to Cohen’s kappa, an interrater agreement index for nominal data. A comparison is made between agreement estimates based on the uniformr wg(1)and a wg(1), and issues such as minimum sample size and practical significance levels are discussed. The authors close with recommendations regarding the use ofr wg(1)/rwg(J) when a uniform null is assumed,r wg(1)/rwg(J) indices that do not assume a uniform null,awg(1) / a wg(J)indices, and generalizability estimates of interrater agreement.
The Importance of School
Authors: Sprott Jane B. , Jenkins Jennifer M. , Doob Anthony N.
Published: March 2005

Using longitudinal data, this study explored the protective effect of a school bond (on violent and nonviolent delinquency) across a variety of risk factors. A strong school bond protected children with early aggression from continuing on in violence 2 years later. A strong school bond also protected children with numerous environmental risks from violent and nonviolent offending. Finally, a strong school bond acted as a protective factor against the influence of peers who were delinquent (for nonviolent offending only). From a policy perspective, these findings suggest that zero-tolerance polices that aim to exclude children considered to be a problem through suspensions or expulsions could be counterproductive.
Identification of Cupric and Cuprous Copper in Copper Naphthenate-Treated Wood by X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Kamdem P. , Zhang J. , Adnot A.
Published: March 2005

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to monitor the modification on copper naphthenate
(Cu-N) treated Southern pine and the effect of a post treatment steaming on Cu-N treated samples. The
atomic ratio of oxygen to carbon (O1s/C1s) decreases with Cu-N treatment, confirming the coverage of
the sample surface with Cu-N, which is rich in -CH2- groups. XPS spectra and Auger parameters were
successively used to identify and quantify Cu (I) and Cu (II) on the surface of Cu-N treated samples. The
peak at 935 eV and the presence of shake up satellites are a good indication of the presence of cupric
copper, while the peak at 933 eV and the disappearance of shake-up satellites are attributed to the presence
of cuprous copper. The post-treatment steaming of Cu-N treated Southern pine cubes results in the
conversion of 52 percent of the cupric copper into cuprous copper on the wood surface.
Benefits of a 2,4-D Acid Herbicide Formulation
Authors: Volgas GC , Mack RE , Roberts JR
Published: March 2005

Research was conducted on a new formulation of 2,4-dichlorophenoxy-acetic acid (2,4-D). Unlike many of today's commercial products that contain ester or amine forms of 2,4-D, this new formulation contains the acid form of 2,4-D. Comparisons of this new formulation with amine and ester formulations include herbicide efficacy data, surfactant properties, and fertilizer compatibility.
Signaling within the Master Clock of the Brain: Localized Activation of Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase by Gastrin-Releasing Peptide
Authors: Antle Michael C. , Kriegsfeld Lance J. , Silver Rae
Published: March 2005

The circadian clock located in the mammalian suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) exhibits substantial heterogeneity in both its neurochemical and functional organization, with retinal input and oscillatory timekeeping functions segregated to different regions within the nucleus. Although it is clear that photic information must be relayed from directly retinorecipient cells to the population of oscillator cells within the nucleus, the intra-SCN signal (or signals) underlying such communication has yet to be identified. Gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP), which is found within calbindin-containing retinorecipient cells and causes photic-like phase shifts when applied directly to the SCN, is a candidate molecule. Here we examine the effect of GRP on both molecular and behavioral properties of the hamster circadian system. Within 30 min a third ventricle injection of GRP produces an increase in the number of cells expressing the phosphorylated form of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (p-ERK1/2), localized in a discrete group of SCN cells that form a cap dorsal to calbindin cells and lateral to vasopressin cells. At 1 h after the peak of p-ERK expression these cap cells express c-fos,Period1, andPeriod2. Pharmacological blockade of ERK phosphorylation attenuates phase shifts to GRP. These data indicate that GRP is an output signal of retinorecipient SCN cells and activates a small cluster of SCN neurons. This novel cell group likely serves as a relay or integration point for communicating photic phase-resetting information to the rhythmic cells of the SCN. These findings represent a first step in deconstructing the SCN network constituting the brain clock.
Differential Localization of Src Homology 2 Domain-Containing Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Substrate-1 and CD47 and Its Molecular Mechanisms in Cultured Hippocampal Neurons
Authors: Ohnishi Hiroshi , Kaneko Yuka , Okazawa Hideki , Miyashita Motoaki , Sato Ryuji , Hayashi Akiko , Tada Kazutoshi , Nagata Shigekazu , Takahashi Masami , Matozaki Takashi
Published: March 2005

Polarized localization of membrane proteins to axons or dendrites is important for a variety of neuronal functions, including neurite outgrowth and synaptogenesis during neural development. Src homology 2 domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase (SHP) substrate-1 (SHPS-1) and its ligand cluster of differentiation 47 (CD47), both of which are members of the Ig superfamily of proteins, are thought to constitute an intercellular communication system in the CNS, although the physiological functions of this CD47-SHPS-1 system remain unknown. To provide insight into these functions, we have now examined the localization of SHPS-1 and CD47 in cultured hippocampal neurons. Endogenous SHPS-1 was detected at the surface of both axons and dendrites, whereas endogenous CD47 was localized predominantly to the surface of dendrites. Forced expression of these two proteins confirmed their distinct localizations. The extracellular regions of SHPS-1 and CD47 were responsible, at least in part, for their axonal and dendritic localizations, respectively; however, the axonal localization of SHPS-1 was not mediated by any one of the three Ig domains in its extracellular region. Overexpression of SHPS-1 and CD47 in distinct neurons resulted in marked accumulation of these proteins at sites of contact between SHPS-1-expressing axons and CD47-expressing dendrites. Such contact sites exhibited an enlarged structure but did not contain the synaptic marker protein vesicle-associated membrane protein-2. These results suggest that differential localization of SHPS-1 and CD47 at axons and dendrites generates a directional intercellular communication system that potentially contributes to regulation of synaptogenesis and the formation of neural networks.
Zur computerbasierten Schulung von Anlagenfahrern in der Chemischen Industrie (On Computer-based Training of Operators in the Chemical Industries)
Authors: Kroll Andreas , Nußko Marina
Published: March 2005

Der Einsatz von Computer-based Training (CBT) gewinnt an praktischer Bedeutung. Neben Fortschritten in der Informationstechnologie liegt dies daran, dass CBT Unternehmen helfen kann, geänderte Qualifikationsziele im Kontext eines gewandelten Arbeits-, Aufgaben- und Gesellschaftsumfeldes mit begrenzten Mitteln zu erreichen. Der Beitrag geht auf die Besonderheiten der Zielgruppe der Anlagenfahrer in der Chemischen Industrie ein. Ihre Arbeit hat sich insbesondere durch die Fortschritte in der Prozessautomatisierung grundlegend verändert. In der Zielgruppen- und Bedarfsanalyse werden Ergebnisse zweier deutschlandweiter Umfragen vorgestellt. Das verfügbare Angebot wird durch einige Produktbeispiele illustriert.
Romantic Histories
Authors: KELLEY THERESA M.
Published: March 2005

In this essay I argue that Charlotte Smith's Beachy Head (1807) dramatizes a crucial impasse in Romantic historiography insofar as the poem rocks between two models of historical narrative: the large, supervisory project often characterized as the grand march of history, exempli�ed by Edward Gibbon's Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire (1776-88), and a narrative of locality, speci�city, and individuals that includes the several kinds of human and natural history that Smith practices in her poem. This second model is roughly akin to the Annales project of modern French historiography. Smith's poem in this sense registers the formal and conceptual unease that Romantic historiography is unable to put aside, an unease that G.W.F. Hegel's philosophy of history and aesthetics challenges but does not put to rest. Considered in these terms, Beachy Head speci�es the incommensurability of historical kinds to which Romanticism so often and so productively returns.
Mass Azithromycin Distribution to Prevent Child Mortality in Burkina Faso
Authors: Oldenburg Catherine E. , Ouattara Mamadou , Bountogo Mamadou , Boudo Valentin , Ouedraogo Thierry , Compaoré Guillaume , Dah Clarisse , Zakane Alphonse , Coulibaly Boubacar , Bagagnan Cheik , Hu Huiyu , O’Brien Kieran S. , Nyatigo Fanice , Keenan Jeremy D. , Doan Thuy , Porco Travis C. , Arnold Benjamin F. , Lebas Elodie , Sié Ali , Lietman Thomas M.
Published: February 2024

Importance

Repeated mass distribution of azithromycin has been shown to reduce childhood mortality by 14% in sub-Saharan Africa. However, the estimated effect varied by location, suggesting that the intervention may not be effective in different geographical areas, time periods, or conditions.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of twice-yearly azithromycin to reduce mortality in children in the presence of seasonal malaria chemoprevention.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cluster randomized placebo-controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of single-dose azithromycin for prevention of all-cause childhood mortality included 341 communities in the Nouna district in rural northwestern Burkina Faso. Participants were children aged 1 to 59 months living in the study communities.

Interventions

Communities were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive oral azithromycin or placebo distribution. Children aged 1 to 59 months were offered single-dose treatment twice yearly for 3 years (6 distributions) from August 2019 to February 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was all-cause childhood mortality, measured during a twice-yearly enumerative census.

Results

A total of 34 399 children (mean [SD] age, 25.2 [18] months) in the azithromycin group and 33 847 children (mean [SD] age, 25.6 [18] months) in the placebo group were included. A mean (SD) of 90.1% (16.0%) of the censused children received the scheduled study drug in the azithromycin group and 89.8% (17.1%) received the scheduled study drug in the placebo group. In the azithromycin group, 498 deaths were recorded over 60 592 person-years (8.2 deaths/1000 person-years). In the placebo group, 588 deaths were recorded over 58 547 person-years (10.0 deaths/1000 person-years). The incidence rate ratio for mortality was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.67-1.02; P = .07) in the azithromycin group compared with the placebo group. The incidence rate ratio was 0.99 (95% CI, 0.72-1.36) in those aged 1 to 11 months, 0.92 (95% CI, 0.67-1.27) in those aged 12 to 23 months, and 0.73 (95% CI, 0.57-0.94) in those aged 24 to 59 months.

Conclusions and Relevance

Mortality in children (aged 1-59 months) was lower with biannual mass azithromycin distribution in a setting in which seasonal malaria chemoprevention was also being distributed, but the difference was not statistically significant. The study may have been underpowered to detect a clinically relevant difference.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03676764
Maternal Tobacco Use During Pregnancy and Child Neurocognitive Development
Authors: Puga Troy B. , Dai Hongying Daisy , Wang Yingying , Theye Elijah
Published: February 2024

Importance

Maternal tobacco use during pregnancy (MTDP) persists across the globe. Longitudinal assessment of the association of MTDP with neurocognitive development of offspring at late childhood is limited.

Objectives

To examine whether MTDP is associated with child neurocognitive development at ages 9 to 12 years.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study included children aged 9 and 10 years at wave 1 (October 2016 to October 2018) and aged 11 to 12 years at a 2-year follow-up (wave 2, August 2018 to January 2021) across 21 US sites in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study. Data were analyzed from June 2022 to December 2023.

Exposure

MTDP.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes of interest were neurocognition, measured by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Toolbox Cognition Battery, and morphometric brain measures through the region of interest (ROI) analysis from structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI).

Results

Among 11 448 children at wave 1 (mean [SD] age, 9.9 [0.6] years; 5990 [52.3%] male), 1607 children were identified with MTDP. In the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery, children with MTDP (vs no MTDP) exhibited lower scores on the oral reading recognition (mean [SE] B = −1.2 [0.2]; P < .001), picture sequence memory (mean [SE] B = −2.3 [0.6]; P < .001), and picture vocabulary (mean [SE] B = −1.2 [0.3]; P < .001) tests and the crystallized cognition composite score (mean [SE] B = −1.3 [0.3]; P < .001) at wave 1. These differential patterns persisted at wave 2. In sMRI, children with MTDP (vs no MTDP) had smaller cortical areas in precentral (mean [SE] B = −104.2 [30.4] mm2; P = .001), inferior parietal (mean [SE] B = −153.9 [43.4] mm2; P < .001), and entorhinal (mean [SE] B = −25.1 [5.8] mm2; P < .001) regions and lower cortical volumes in precentral (mean [SE] B = −474.4 [98.2] mm3; P < .001), inferior parietal (mean [SE] B = −523.7 [136.7] mm3; P < .001), entorhinal (mean [SE] B = −94.1 [24.5] mm3; P < .001), and parahippocampal (mean [SE] B = −82.6 [18.7] mm3; P < .001) regions at wave 1. Distinct cortical volume patterns continued to be significant at wave 2. Frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes exhibited differential ROI, while there were no notable distinctions in the occipital lobe and insula cortex.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, MTDP was associated with enduring deficits in childhood neurocognition. Continued research on the association of MTDP with cognitive performance and brain structure related to language processing skills and episodic memory is needed.
Electrospun Biomimetic Periosteum Capable of Controlled Release of Multiple Agents for Programmed Promoting Bone Regeneration
Authors: Zhao Xingkai , Zhuang Yu , Cao Yongjian , Cai Fengying , Lv Yicheng , Zheng Yunquan , Yang Jianmin , Shi Xianai
Published: February 2024

The effective repair of large bone defects remains a major challenge due to its limited self‐healing capacity. Inspired by the structure and function of the natural periosteum, an electrospun biomimetic periosteum is constructed to programmatically promote bone regeneration using natural bone healing mechanisms. The biomimetic periosteum is composed of a bilayer with an asymmetric structure in which an aligned electrospun poly(ε‐caprolactone)/gelatin/deferoxamine (PCL/GEL/DFO) layer mimics the outer fibrous layer of the periosteum, while a random coaxial electrospun PCL/GEL/aspirin (ASP) shell and PCL/silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) core layer mimics the inner cambial layer. The bilayer controls the release of ASP, DFO, and SiNPs to precisely regulate the inflammatory, angiogenic, and osteogenic phases of bone repair. The random coaxial inner layer can effectively antioxidize, promoting cell recruitment, proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization, while the aligned outer layer can promote angiogenesis and prevent fibroblast infiltration. In particular, different stages of bone repair are modulated in a rat skull defect model to achieve faster and better bone regeneration. The proposed biomimetic periosteum is expected to be a promising candidate for bone defect healing.
E‐Selective Radical Difunctionalization of Unactivated Alkynes: Preparation of Functionalized Allyl Alcohols from Aliphatic Alkynes
Authors: Wang Jie , Wu Xinxin , Cao Zhu , Zhang Xu , Wang Xinxin , Li Jie , Zhu Chen
Published: February 2024

Radical difunctionalization of aliphatic alkynes provides direct access to valuable multi‐substituted alkenes, but achieving a high level of chemo‐ and stereo‐control remains a formidable challenge. Herein a novel photoredox neutral alkyne di‐functionalization is reported through functional group migration followed by a radical‐polar crossover and energy transfer‐enabled stereoconvergent isomerization of alkenes. In this sequence, a hydroxyalkyl and an aryl group are incorporated concomitantly into an alkyne, leading to diversely functionalized E‐allyl alcohols. The scope of alkynes is noteworthy, and the reaction tolerates aliphatic alkynes containing hydrogen donating C─H bonds that are prone to intramolecular hydrogen atom transfer. The protocol features broad functional group compatibility, high product diversity, and exclusive chemo‐ and stereoselectivity, thus providing a practical strategy for the elusive radical di‐functionalization of unactivated alkynes.
Backbone Engineering of Polymeric Catalysts for High‐Performance CO2 Reduction in Bipolar Membrane Zero‐Gap Electrolyzer
Authors: Li Geng , Huang Libei , Wei Chengpeng , Shen Hanchen , Liu Yong , Zhang Qiang , Su Jianjun , Song Yun , Guo Weihua , Cao Xiaohu , Tang Ben Zhong , Robert Marc , Ye Ruquan
Published: February 2024

Bipolar membranes (BPMs) have emerged as a promising solution for mitigating CO2 losses, salt precipitation and high maintenance costs associated with the commonly used anion‐exchange membrane electrode assembly for CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). However, the industrial implementation of BPM‐based zero‐gap electrolyzer is hampered by the poor CO2RR performance, largely attributed to the local acidic environment. Here, we report a backbone engineering strategy to improve the CO2RR performance of molecular catalysts in BPM‐based zero‐gap electrolyzers by covalently grafting cobalt tetraaminophthalocyanine onto a positively charged polyfluorene backbone (PF‐CoTAPc). PF‐CoTAPc shows a high acid tolerance in BPM electrode assembly (BPMEA), achieving a high FE of 82.6 % for CO at 100 mA/cm2 and a high CO2 utilization efficiency of 87.8 %. Notably, the CO2RR selectivity, carbon utilization efficiency and long‐term stability of PF‐CoTAPc in BPMEA outperform reported BPM systems. We attribute the enhancement to the stable cationic shield in the double layer and suppression of proton migration, ultimately inhibiting the undesired hydrogen evolution and improving the CO2RR selectivity. Techno‐economic analysis shows the least energy consumption (957 kJ/mol) for the PF‐CoTAPc catalyst in BPMEA. Our findings provide a viable strategy for designing efficient CO2RR catalysts in acidic environments.
Functional characterization of a geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase in the leaf beetle Monolepta hieroglyphica
Authors: Song Xuan , Liu Chang , Dhiloo Khalid H. , Yi Chao‐qun , Zhang Tian‐tao , Zhang Yong‐jun
Published: February 2024

Geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (GGPPS) as the short‐chain prenyltransferases for catalyzing the formation of the acyclic precursor (E)‐GGPP has been extensively investigated in mammals, plants, and microbes, but its functional plasticity is poorly understood in insect species. Here, a single GGPPS in leaf beetle Monolepta hieroglyphica, MhieGGPPS, was functionally investigated. Phylogenetic analysis showed that MhieGGPPS was clustered in one clade with homologs and had six conserved motifs. Molecular docking results indicated that binding sites of dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP), (E)‐geranyl pyrophosphate (GPP), and (E)‐farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) were in the chain‐length determination region of MhieGGPPS, respectively. In vitro, recombiant MhieGGPPS could catalyze the formation of (E)‐geranylgeraniol against different combinations of substrates including isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP)/DMAPP, IPP/(E)‐GPP, and IPP/(E)‐FPP, suggesting that MhieGGPPS could not only use (E)‐FPP but also (E)‐GPP and DMAPP as the allylic cosubstrates. In kinetic analysis, the (E)‐FPP was most tightly bound to MhieGGPPS than that of others. It was proposed that MhieGGPPS as a multifunctional enzyme is differentiated from the other GGPPSs in the animals and plants, which only accepted (E)‐FPP as the allylic cosubstrate. These findings provide valuable insights into understanding the functional plasticity of GGPPS in M. hieroglyphica and the novel biosynthesis mechanism in the isoprenoid pathway.
Vorfertigung von Stahlbeton während des Ersten und Zweiten Weltkriegs
Authors: Haka Andreas T.
Published: February 2024

Das Buch zu „Bemessungsverfahren für Beton‐ und Stahlbetonbauteile“ prägte den praktischen Stahlbetonbau wie kaum ein anderes, und das nicht nur in Deutschland. Über seinen Autor, den Bauunternehmer und Hochschullehrer Benno Löser (1878–1944), ist jedoch bisher kaum etwas bekannt. Bereits früh befasste er sich mit Fragen zur Vorfertigung und Montagelogistik im Betonbau, und eine Vielzahl der von ihm konstruierten Bauwerke sind heute Baudenkmäler mit konstruktivem Pioniercharakter. Dies gilt auch für seine Arbeiten während des Ersten und Zweiten Weltkriegs, wo er für verschiedene Instanzen das Themenfeld der Vorfertigung von Betonfertigteilen fokussierte und sich dabei schließlich im nationalsozialistischen Unrechtsstaat verstrickte. Er setzte seine fachliche Expertise auch an Orten der Vernichtung ein, wie z. B. Auschwitz und Dyhernfurth. Es werden hier die ersten Forschungsergebnisse aus dem aktuellen Forschungsprojekt zur Geschichte der Verbundwerkstoffe im Bauwesen des Lehrstuhls für die Geschichte der Naturwissenschaften und Technik der Universität Stuttgart vorgestellt. Basierend auf bisher für die Forschung komplett unbekannten Bild‐ und Schriftdokumenten aus dem Nachlass von Benno Löser, welcher zwischen Hochschulbetrieb und den praktischen Herausforderungen im Baubetrieb pendelte, wird ein Einblick in den Betonfertigteilbau während zweier Weltkriege gegeben.
Prevalence of craniosynostosis in Finland, 1987–2010: A population‐based study
Authors: Vuola Pia , Pakkasjärvi Niklas , Ritvanen Annukka , Heliövaara Arja , Tukiainen Erkki , Gissler Mika
Published: February 2024

Background

Craniosynostosis is a prevalent craniofacial malformation in Finland; however, comprehensive population‐based epidemiological data are limited. This study aimed to estimate the total and birth prevalence of craniosynostosis in Finland from 1987 to 2010 and examine temporal trends.

Methods

We collected the data from nationwide registers maintained by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare and Statistics Finland, as well as treating hospitals, encompassing live births, stillbirths, terminations for fetal anomalies, and infant deaths with suspected or diagnosed craniosynostosis or skull deformation. A craniofacial surgeon and a clinical geneticist reviewed 1878 medical records for diagnostic confirmation.

Results

Out of 877 craniosynostosis cases, 83% were single‐suture synostoses (all live births), 10% craniosynostosis syndromes, and 7% multisutural non‐syndromic synostoses. Live birth prevalence from 1987 to 2010 was 6.0/10,000 live births, ranging from 5.0/10,000 in 1987 to 7.5/10,000 in 2010. Total prevalence, including live births, stillbirths, and terminations, varied from 5.0/10,000 in 1987 to 8.0/10,000 in 2010. Sagittal synostosis was the most common synostosis, with a prevalence of 3.9/10,000 live births, followed by metopic (0.6/10,000), unicoronal (0.4/10,000), and unilambdoid (0.1/10,000) synostoses.

Conclusions

The total combined prevalence of all craniosynostosis types significantly increased driven by a nonsignificant rise across all subgroups and a significant increase in the syndrome group. In live births increase was significant only within the syndrome subgroup, primarily due to an increase in Muenke syndrome patients. The rising prevalence of syndromes necessitates further investigation. Contrasting with trends in Europe, Australia, and the USA, Finland showed no significant increase in metopic craniosynostosis.
‘Where do you feel it most?’ Using body mapping to explore the lived experiences of racism with 10‐ and 11‐year‐olds
Authors: Barnes L. Gorell , Podpadec T. , Jones Verity , Vafadari J. , Pawson C. , Whitehouse S. , Richards M.
Published: February 2024

This paper presents an overview of the arts‐based methodology used in a research project that aimed to explore the impact of the lived experiences of racism on 10‐ and 11‐year‐old children in the United Kingdom. The research responds to the relative lack of literature concerning the racialised experiences of young children. We discuss how we developed the arts‐based method of body mapping as an ethical approach to foregrounding the children's voices. We consider that this approach contributes to knowledge and understanding about exploring the nuanced and complex relationship between the children's external worlds and their internal feelings, and supporting them to process and communicate this. We suggest that the method presented is transferable, and present our ethically engaged, arts‐based planning framework that can be used if others wish to adopt this way of working.
Experimentelle Untersuchung von Stahlbetonbalken ohne Bügelbewehrung unter Stoßbelastung
Authors: Máca Petr , Leicht Lena , Schubert Thomas , Beckmann Birgit
Published: February 2024

Versuche an Stahlbetonbalken ohne Bügel dienen häufig als vereinfachte Grundlage zur darauf aufbauenden numerischen Simulation von Stahlbetonplatten. In diesem Beitrag wird eine experimentelle Studie des Verhaltens von Stahlbetonbalken unter Stoßbelastung vorgestellt. Die Versuche wurden im 11 m hohen Fallturm des Otto‐Mohr‐Laboratoriums der TU Dresden mit zylindrischen Impaktoren von 100 mm Durchmesser durchgeführt, welche mit Druckluft auf Geschwindigkeiten zwischen 2,7 m/s und 25,8 m/s beschleunigt wurden. Die verwendeten Impaktoren wogen 14,22 kg und 21,66 kg. Die Impaktor‐ und Auflagerkräfte, die Balkenverschiebungen und ‐beschleunigungen wurden an ausgewählten Stellen erfasst. Die Sensordaten wurden durch digitale Bildkorrelation (DIC) ergänzt. Die Balken wiesen je nach Aufprallgeschwindigkeit und ‐masse unterschiedliche Versagensarten auf. Scherrisse bildeten sich ab Aufprallgeschwindigkeiten von etwa 11 m/s, was beim leichteren Impaktor einer kinetischen Impaktorenergie von 860 J entspricht. Unter Aufprallgeschwindigkeiten von etwa 22 m/s wurde die Bildung eines Durchstanzkegels in der Nähe des Belastungspunkts beobachtet. Diese Ergebnisse liefern wichtige Erkenntnisse zur Bewertung von Stahlbetonbalken ohne Querkraftbewehrung unter Impaktbelastung. Weiterhin dienen die Ergebnisse der Verbesserung von numerischen Modellen, sodass diese präziser und verlässlicher komplexe Großstrukturen abbilden können.
Prevalence of the use of prescription stimulants as “study drugs” by UK university students: A brief report
Authors: Jones Ffinian , Newton Philip M.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

There is media concern over students using prescription stimulants as “cognitive enhancers” to try and improve their academic performance. However, there is limited evidence about the prevalence of this behaviour in the United Kingdom, or whether it has increased in recent years.

Methods

We review survey studies on students' use of cognitive enhancers.

Results

Overall reported use is low, with some inconclusive evidence that it is increasing. Use of modafinil appears to be higher than that of methylphenidate or dexamphetamine.

Conclusion

There is a clear need for large‐scale research in this area, using representative sampling and survey methods that protect student anonymity.
Serum Galectin‐1, Galectin‐9, and YKL‐40 levels in bipolar disorder and their relationship with cognitive functions
Authors: Selahaddin Elcicek , Bahadir Demir , Sengul Sahin , Seyithan Taysi , Hasan Ulusal , Gülcin Elboga , Abdurrahman Altindag
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The number of studies conducted on the role of neuroinflammation in the etiopathogenesis of bipolar disorder has been increasing in recent years. The role of Galectin‐1, Galectin‐9, and YKL‐40, which are considered to play roles in neuroinflammation and the etiopathogenesis of bipolar disorder, and the relationship of these parameters with cognitive functions were investigated in the present study.

Method

Serum Galectin‐1, Galectin‐9, and YKL‐40 levels were measured with the ELISA Method in 64 bipolar euthymic patients and 64 healthy controls. The Stroop and trail‐making tests were administered to assess cognitive functions in all participants.

Results

Serum Galectin‐1, Galectin‐9, and YKL‐40 levels were statistically and significantly lower in the patient group when compared to the healthy control group. The scores of the Stroop test and trail‐making tests were statistically higher in the patient group than in the healthy control group. There was a weak and positive correlation between serum Galectin‐1, Galectin‐9, and YKL‐40 levels and cognitive performance in all participants.

Discussion and conclusion

Statistically significant low levels of serum Galectin‐1, Galectin‐9, and YKL‐40 detected in the patient group suggest that these parameters have important roles in neuroinflammation. The statistically higher Stroop and trail‐making test scores of the patient group compared to the control group indicates that the cognitive performance of the patient group was weaker. Also, the positive correlation between Galectin‐1, Galectin‐9, and YKL‐40 levels and cognitive performance suggests that these molecules may have a neuroprotective role. We think that the present study will contribute to this field where there is very limited data in the literature.
Decoding the synergistic potential of MAZ‐51 and zingerone as therapy for melanoma treatment in alignment with sustainable development goals
Authors: Letsoalo Kganya , Nortje Evangeline , Patrick Sean , Nyakudya Trevor , Hlophe Yvette
Published: February 2024

Melanoma, an invasive class of skin cancer, originates from mutations in melanocytes, the pigment‐producing cells. Globally, approximately 132,000 new cases are reported each year, and in South Africa, the incidence stands at 2.7 per 100,000 people, signifying a worrisome surge in melanoma rates. Therefore, there is a need to explore treatment modalities that will target melanoma's signalling pathways. Melanoma metastasis is aided by ligand activity of transforming growth factor‐beta 1 (TGF‐β1), vascular endothelial growth factor‐C (VEGF‐C) and C‐X‐C chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) which bind to their receptors and promote tumour cell survival, lymphangiogenesis and chemotaxis. (3‐(4‐dimethylaminonaphthelen‐1‐ylmethylene)‐1,3‐dihydroindol‐2‐one) MAZ‐51 is an indolinone‐based molecule that inhibits VEGF‐C induced phosphorylation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR‐3). Despite the successful use of conventional cancer therapies, patients endure adverse side effects and cancer drug resistance. Moreover, conventional therapies are toxic to the environment and caregivers. The use of medicinal plants and their phytochemical constituents in cancer treatment strategies has become more widespread because of the rise in drug resistance and the development of unfavourable side effects. Zingerone, a phytochemical derived from ginger exhibits various pharmacological properties positioning it as a promising candidate for cancer treatment. This review provides an overview of melanoma biology and the intracellular signalling pathways promoting cell survival, proliferation and adhesion. There is a need to align health and environmental objectives within sustainable development goals 3 (good health and well‐being), 13 (climate action) and 15 (life on land) to promote early detection of skin cancer, enhance sun‐safe practices, mitigation of environmental factors and advancing the preservation of biodiversity, including medicinal plants. Thus, this review discusses the impact of cytostatic cancer drugs on patients and the environment and examines the potential use of phytochemicals as adjuvant therapy.
Using Machine Learning to Determine a Suitable Patient Population for Anakinra for the Treatment of COVID‐19 Under the Emergency Use Authorization
Authors: Liu Qi , Nair Raj , Huang Ruihao , Zhu Hao , Anderson Austin , Belen Ozlem , Tran Van , Chiu Rebecca , Higgins Karen , Chen Jianmeng , He Lei , Doddapaneni Suresh , Huang Shiew‐Mei , Nikolov Nikolay P. , Zineh Issam
Published: February 2024

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study (SAVEMORE trial) provided data to support an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of anakinra in hospitalized adults with positive results of direct severe acute respiratory syndrome‐coronavirus 2 viral testing with pneumonia requiring supplemental oxygen (low‐ or high‐flow oxygen) who are at risk of progressing to severe respiratory failure and likely to have an elevated plasma soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR). Currently, the suPAR assay is not commercially available in the United States. An alternative method was needed to identify patients that best reflect the population in the clinical trial selected based on suPAR level ≥ 6 ng/mL at baseline. A machine learning approach based on data from the SAVEMORE trial was used to develop a scoring rule to identify patients who are likely to have a suPAR level ≥ 6 ng/mL at baseline. External validation of the scoring rule was conducted with data from a different trial (SAVE). This clinical scoring rule with high positive predictive value, high specificity, reasonable sensitivity, and biological relevance is expected to identify patients who are likely to have an elevated suPAR level ≥ 6 ng/mL at baseline. As such, it is included in the EUA to identify patients that fall within the authorized population for whom the known and potential benefits outweigh the known and potential risks of anakinra.
A retrospective analysis of historical data of multi‐environment trials for dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Michigan
Authors: Volpato Leonardo , Wright Evan M. , Bales Scott , Gomez Francisco E.
Published: February 2024

Plant breeding programs use multi‐environment trials (METs) to test multiple genotypes with the aim of selecting superior lines and increasing genetic gain. However, METs can be affected by the genotype × environment interactions (GEI) which hinders the ability to identify stable and high‐yielding dry bean varieties. This study investigates the impact of GEI on grain yield (GY) in three dry bean market classes across multiple environments in Michigan. The goal is to identify genotypes with superior performance under GEI effects and describe the genetic correlation between locations and other agronomic traits. Furthermore, we evaluate genetic yield trends on three major dry bean market classes in Michigan. Using linear mixed models, stability analysis, and a multi‐trait index, this study accounted for the effects of the environment on genotype performance to improve the prediction of GY. Our results highlight the importance of considering GEI in dry bean breeding programs to enhance the selection accuracy of GY. The genotype by environment interaction biplot analysis and the GEI model aided in identifying and classifying mega‐environments, leading to specific strategies for testing commercial bean classes across target production environments. Multiple‐trait performance selection showed positive results, although limited gains were observed for early maturing genotypes. Finally, the analysis of genetic trends reveals a positive trend in yield for black beans, while navy beans and small red beans show a slight decrease which can be attributed to unfavorable growing conditions and lack of genetic diversity in these market classes.
Transcription factors FtMYB22 negatively regulates anthocyanin synthesis by forming an MBW ternary complex in Tartary buckwheat
Authors: Zhao Haixia , Liu Lisong , Chen Ying , Li Chenglei , Wu Huala , Wang Tao , Shan Zhi , Wang Xiaoli , Wu Qi
Published: February 2024

Anthocyanins are important flavonoid compounds that are abundant in Tartary buckwheat, providing a variety of bright colors and enhancing abiotic stress resistance. Our study found that FtMYB22 specifically affected anthocyanin anabolism. In this study, overexpression of the FtMYB22 transcription factor in tobacco significantly reduced the accumulation of flavonol in the petals of transgenic tobacco plants. Moreover, it significantly downregulated the expression of the genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis in tobacco. Overexpression of the FtMYB22 transcription factor in Tartary buckwheat hairy roots significantly inhibited anthocyanin and total flavonoids biosynthesis, and downregulated the expression of the anthocyanin biosynthesis genes. Comparing wild‐type and transgenic hairy roots, FtMYB22 overexpression significantly inhibited anthocyanin accumulation and downregulated most flavonoid synthesis pathway gene expression. Yeast two‐hybrid assays demonstrated that FtMYB22 could interact with the FtbHLH family member FtTT8 and the FtWD40 family member FtTTG1 to form a ternary MBW complex to inhibit anthocyanin synthesis. Therefore, FtMYB22 can be exploited as a target site for further gene editing and molecular breeding to improve the resilience and quality of Tartary buckwheat.
Seed yield and quality of interspecific hybrids of Paspalum plicatulum × P. guenoarum at different harvest times
Authors: Scienza Carolina , Antoniolli Júlio , Longhi Júlia , Dias Letícia W. , Silveira Diógenes Cecchin , Sampaio Rodrigo , de Ávila Victor S. , Escosteguy Luis A. , Simioni Carine , Weiler Roberto Luis , Dall'Agnol Miguel , Brunes André Pich
Published: February 2024

Paspalum guenoarum is a warm‐season perennial grass, with a caespitose growth habit. The species is native to southern Brazilian grasslands and has been used in interspecific hybridizations because of its high palatability, resistance to trampling and grazing, and cold tolerance. Previous studies reported improvements in forage production and the nutritive value of hybrid material. However, there are limited data about seed production and seed quality of these hybrids. The aim of this study was to quantify the optimal time to harvest seed of three Paspalum plicatulum × P. guenoarum hybrids (08Q01, 104026, and 105052). Seed yield and seed quality were determined. Hybrids were harvested at 10, 20, and 30 days after flowering and evaluated for the components of seed yield, vigor, and viability. The optimum time to harvest was 20 days after the beginning of flowering. A >50% yield reduction, due to seed shattering, occurred when harvesting was delayed beyond 20 days. Harvesting <20 days after flowering resulted in a high percentage of empty spikelets and seeds with low vigor and viability. About 75% of the seed shattering took place 10–20 days after flowering, and for the 104026 and 105052 hybrids, >50% of seed was during this period. Hybrid 105052 had superior seed yield (2380 ± 280 kg ha−1) and similar seed quality. These two characteristics, among others, are the most important ones when recommending a new commercial cultivar for release.
Citric Acid as Multidentate Flexible Ligand for Multinuclear Late‐3 d‐Metal Complexes and Single‐Molecule Magnets
Authors: Wakizaka Masanori , Yamashita Masahiro
Published: February 2024

Citric acid (citH4) is a ubiquitous product in nature with an interesting chemistry owing to its three carboxy and one hydroxy groups, which can be deprotonated in a stepwise manner into six kinds of citrate anions involving two protonation isomers. Deprotonated citrates easily coordinate to late‐3d‐metal ions (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn), affording complexes including mono‐, di‐, tri‐, tetra‐, hexa‐, hepta‐, octa‐, nona‐, and 21‐nuclear complexes with a variety of structures. Magnetic interactions between metal centers are mainly generated via superexchange through hydroxylate or carboxylate bridging, whereas weaker magnetic dipole interactions appear in the absence of superexchange interactions. In citrate complexes, both ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic interactions have been found. Citrate has a great potential to serve as a bridge between spin quantum magnetism and green chemistry. In this review, the structures and magnetism of discrete citrate complexes of late‐3d‐metals, as well as their single‐molecule magnet properties are discussed.
Impact of variation in input parameters on energy matrices of dual slope active solar desalting unit
Authors: Krishna Hari , Singh Jeeoot , Dwivedi Vijay Kumar , Singh Desh Bandhu
Published: February 2024

This article presents the relationship between energy matrices of a dual slope solar desalting unit integrated with a number (N) of photovoltaic thermal flat plate collectors (NPVTFPC‐DSU) and the effect of variation in mass flow rate and N for a sustainable solar distillation. Although extensive research has been done on dual slope active solar desalting unit, however, the area of the impact of variation in and N on energy matrices of NPVTFPC‐DSU remains still untouched. This study is an attempt to bridge the gap that has been highlighted. An exhaustive analysis is performed considering all types of climatic situations of New Delhi, India. MATLAB is used to calculate the overall energy, exergy, and energy matrices for NPVTFPC‐DSU based on fundamental equations and relevant data as inputs. Concludingly, it is evident that there is a decrease in the value of energy payback period and life cycle conversion efficiency as the value of increases at a given value of N for ≤ 0.10 kg s−1. For kg s−1, the values remain constant. For NPVTFPC‐DSU, 6 and 10 are the best and most favorable values of N as far as energy‐based energy matrices and exergy‐based energy matrices are concerned.
Understanding tectonics from fluvial topography by using the stochastic‐threshold incision model: Theory and application to the Dadu River basin, eastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Yizhou , Zheng Dewen , Zhang Huiping
Published: February 2024

The flood distribution and bedrock incision threshold exert important influences on the erosion efficiency, which can result into a nonlinear scaling between channel steepness (normalized channel gradients for the downstream increases in drainage area) and erosion rates. Here, we explore the incorporation of both river incision threshold and discharge probability distribution into erosion efficiency to construct a stochastic‐threshold incision model equation to simulate river power incision and the evolution of fluvial topography. Assuming time‐dependent tectonic uplift, we develop a closed‐form analytical solution to the model equation and derive a linear inverse procedure to retrieve relative uplift rate history from river longitudinal profiles. Application of the inverse scheme to the Dadu River basin in the eastern Tibetan Plateau produces a history with three‐phase increases in the uplift/incision rates during the Cenozoic. We use the inversion results to forward the time‐changed river long profile, which indicates the existence of paleo relief before the Oligocene and significant contributions of the late Miocene regional uplift and early Pleistocene river capture on the present topography.
A framework to demonstrate the utility and safety of the observational method
Authors: Roper Thomas , Bertuzzi Robert , Oliveira David , Karlovšek Jurij
Published: February 2024

Underground engineering projects are often characterised by significant uncertainties, leading to complex decision‐making when selecting appropriate design methods. Traditional approaches, such as the observational method (OM), have been widely used but rarely explicitly account for the integration of risk, costs, construction timeframes and engineering judgement. Successfully reaching a consensus to implement the OM on tunnelling projects can be challenging and requires ensuring stakeholders understand how the method impacts structural safety. Fostering such understanding can be an arduous process. A risk‐based decision framework is introduced using expected utility theory to aid the decision to choose the OM, or not. The framework integrates risk, cost, construction timelines and engineering judgement within an economic decision model using a probabilistic approach. It is tested on a Sydney, Australia case study. A Monte Carlo model analysis examines contingency actions and structural failure probability when applying the OM. The case study highlights the significance of considering indirect costs in complex decisions and harnesses experienced professionals’ insights for a comprehensive risk and cost assessment. We conclude that merging probabilistic‐based design with OM enhances the ability to demonstrate structural safety and economic factors within a unified model.