bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Childhood obesity: a risk factor for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in adolescence
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Facultad de Medicina, Cuzmar Benítez Valeria
Published: September 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), defined as fat accumulation >5% in hepatocytes, may progress to fibrosis or cirrhosis later in life. NAFLD prevalence in adolescents has increased significantly in direct relation with obesity prevalence. Objective: To identify anthropometric variables during the first 10 years of life associated to the risk of developing NAFLD in adolescence. Methods: Longitudinal cohort study 'Growth and Obesity Chilean Cohort Study' (GOCS) consisting of 513 children born in 2002-2003, with yearly anthropometric data collected over a 10 year period. The presence of intra-hepatic fat in the livers of subjects 14-16 years of age was determined using abdominal ultrasound. In addition, elastography was performed on all participants with ultrasound evidence of NAFLD. Results: 9.7% of the participants presented findings compatible with NAFLD. After 2 years of age, obesity significantly and progressively increased the probability of NAFLD occurrence in adolescence. Obesity at 5 years of age was associated with the highest OR for NAFLD, reaching values of 8.91 (95% CI 3.03-16.11). Among participants with NAFLD, those with altered liver elasticity (≥7 Kpa) had greater weight, BMI z-score, waist and hip circumference and altered liver enzymes (p<0.05). Conclusion: The risk of developing NAFLD in adolescence increases progressively with early obesity starting at age 2 years.
Participación ciudadana: mecanismos utilizados para captar información sobre valores y preferencias en procesos de decisiones de priorización o cobertura de salud
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Facultad de Medicina, Rodríguez Ramírez María Paz
Published: September 2023

La presente Actividad para acceder al Grado de Magíster en Salud Pública busca un enfoque innovador integrando un componente práctico, realizando una Pasantía en el Ministerio de Salud, y un componente teórico conceptual con una revisión de la literatura. Ambos elementos se integran en una reflexión final. A continuación, se presenta la metodología y principales resultados de ambos productos. El primer componente consistió en realizar una Pasantía en el Departamento de Evaluación de Tecnologías Sanitarias y Salud Basada en Evidencia, dependiente de la División de Planificación Sanitaria del Ministerio de Salud de Chile, que se desarrolló durante el primer trimestre del 2021. Esta actividad permitió a la autora explorar los recursos metodológicos que están al alcance de los tomadores de decisiones para facilitar la formulación de políticas de salud, conocer la labor y los objetivos de las Unidades que componen el Departamento y adquirir competencias sobre Metodología de Investigación y Salud Basada en Evidencia que contribuyeron a elaborar el segundo producto de este trabajo. Como segundo componente se realizó una revisión de literatura con análisis de estudios primarios publicados como artículos en los últimos 10 años en las principales bases de datos bibliográficas disponibles en Internet, además de una estrategia secundaria que incluye referencias a otras revisiones y documentos de repositorios universitarios. La revisión arrojó que los métodos más utilizados son la encuesta y entrevista concentrándose estas iniciativas principalmente en Europa. En el último capítulo se elabora la reflexión final y discusión general, concluyendo que esta actividad final de grado constituye una iniciativa innovadora que permitió adquirir nuevas habilidades y fomentar la vinculación con el medio a través de la pasantía, la cual además sirvió como base para elaborar el segundo componente de revisión sobre participación ciudadana, tema que resulta particularmente importante en el contexto nacional actual y cuyo propósito es mantenernos en sintonía con la comunidad para poner en el centro las necesidades de salud más urgentes y aportar en resolverlas de manera efectiva y eficiente.
Dysbiosis prevents age-dependent phenotypes in drosphila Pink1B9 a fly model for parkinson's disease
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Facultad de Medicina, Molina Mateo Daniela Francisca
Published: September 2023

La interacción entre el sistema nervioso entérico (SNE) y el sistema nervioso central (SNC), comúnmente conocido como el eje Intestino-Cerebro, consiste en una comunicación bidireccional regulada a nivel endocrino, inmunológico y neuronal, el desequilibrio en su normal funcionamiento se ha asociado recientemente con varios trastornos neuropsiquiátricos y neurodegenerativos. La investigación sobre este eje podría ofrecernos nuevos blancos terapéuticos para una amplia gama de enfermedades, incluida la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP). La EP es un desorden neurodegenerativo caracterizado por alteraciones motoras, las cuales son precedidas por lo que se denomina una etapa prodrómica o premotora donde es posible observar síntomas no motores. En esta tesis se propone manipular la microbiota intestinal en etapas premotoras tempranas de un modelo de EP en mosca generado por una deleción en el gen Pink1 (Pink1B9), para evaluar si esta manipulación podría afectar la progresión temporal de los síntomas de la EP. En este trabajo, se analizó si existían diferencias en la composición de la microbiota del intestino medio a los 8-9 días posteriores a la eclosión y se generó un modelo de disbiosis (desequilibrio microbiano) intestinal en Drosophila mediante un tratamiento crónico con antibiótico (kanamicina, 0,5 mM), durante un máximo de 16 días. Finalmente, mediante el uso de un sistema de registro, evaluamos individualmente en moscas macho diversos parámetros de comportamiento motores y no motores en las moscas tratadas y no tratadas con kanamicina. Los resultados obtenidos en esta tesis evidencian una diferencia sustancial en la composición de la microbiota intestinal del mutante Pink1B9 en comparación con las moscas control. Los datos también muestran que el tratamiento con kanamicina induce la recuperación de algunos de los parámetros no motores en etapa premotora estudiados en la EP, mientras que no hay cambios en los parámetros locomotores en la etapa. Por otro lado, el tratamiento específicamente durante la etapa premotora tiene un efecto prolongado induciendo una mejora en la capacidad locomotora de las moscas de control y mutantes.
Functional limitations among Chilean older adults: the impact of childhood socioeconomic position and employment trajectories
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Facultad de Medicina, Valencia Pinilla Rocío Fernanda
Published: September 2023

Objectives: Based on a life course perspective, we explored the effects of childhood socioeconomic position (SEP) and employment trajectories on functional limitations among older people living in Santiago, Chile. Methods: Data were drawn from a comprehensive and representative life history dataset of persons aged 65-75. We used logistic regression analyses to assess the effects of childhood SEP and employment trajectories on functional limitations, including 3 physical domains. Results: Low childhood SEP and employment trajectories characterized by informal and part-time work negatively affect functional limitations in old age. Both seem to have a direct effect on functional ability. Discussion: The life course approach could enrich the study of functional limitations, helping to better understand how social factors impact older people's functional ability. This, in turn, could help optimize the design of public policies and strategies to reduce the number of years of life dependent on others, thus promoting healthy aging.
Whatsapp no trabalho e esgotamento profissional: pesquisa com profissionais da indústria têxtil
Authors: De Oliveira Idelmárcia Dantas , Césa Eliane Saturnino , Nobre Anna Cláudia dos Santos , De Souza Neto Rômulo Andrade , De Andrade Carpeggiani Gomes Monteiro
Published: September 2023

Esta pesquisa analisa a percepção de profissionais da indústria têxtil a fim de compreender os efeitos do uso do WhatsApp no esgotamento profissional. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa básica, realizada com onze profissionais brasileiros, cujos dados foram coletados via questionário on-line, em julho de 2022, e analisados com suporte da análise lexical, usando o software Iramuteq. A interpretação dos dados considerou a análise textual, o modelo teórico da pesquisa e os dados dos questionários. Os principais resultados foram: o uso do WhatsApp para trabalho não provoca ambiguidade de função/papel, nem interfere na autonomia do gestor; houve a apropriação do WhatsApp pelos profissionais da indústria; Colaboração, Conveniência, Praticidade e Vinculação emergiram dos dados, ligadas ao construto uso do WhatsApp para trabalho. Por fim, o uso do WhatsApp, no contexto estudado, não provoca, necessariamente, esgotamento profissional. Este trabalho poderá contribuir com estudos futuros por abordar um tema pouco estudado, embora manifesto no ambiente organizacional.
Oferta e demanda de dados abertos governamentais: um estudo em universidades federais brasileiras
Authors: Albano Cláudio Sonáglio , Craveiro Gisele da Silva , Carossi Daniel Fernando
Published: September 2023

Os governos têm investido em processos de abertura de dados como uma das formas de melhorar a gestão e promover maior transparência junto à sociedade. Neste sentido, conciliar os dados ofertados com o efetivo interesse da sociedade pelos mesmos é fundamental. O objetivo deste trabalho foi o de verificar se os dados que a sociedade solicita são coerentes com as informações disponibilizadas pelas universidades federais, em formato aberto. Acessando dados secundários (planos de dados abertos e páginas das universidades federais), entre 2016 e 2021, podemos destacar os seguintes resultados: a oferta de dados é coerente com as premissas postas nos planos de dados abertos; existe um grande descompasso entre a demanda e a oferta de dados, sendo assim necessária maior atenção das IES para com as demandas da sociedade; esse descompasso é ainda maior em dados referentes à gestão, em relação a dados referentes ao contexto acadêmico (ensino, pesquisa e extensão); e finalmente, que fatores operacionais são uma das principais barreiras para a disponibilização de dados em formato aberto.
Organização e mobilização docente: desafios estruturais explicitados nas eleições da Associação Nacional dos Docentes do Ensino Superior (ANDES-SN)
Authors: Farage Eblin Joseph
Published: September 2023

Este artigo traz reflexões sobre os processos de organização do movimento docente no ANDES-SN, partindo de uma perspectiva histórica e dialética, que considera o Sindicato Nacional imbricado nas relações sociais. A partir de revisão bibliográfica e documental, traz elementos que consideram os impactos das transformações do mundo do trabalho, a ascensão da extrema-direita e a proliferação da sociabilidade violenta, na mobilização e organização docente, e suas afetações nas instituições de ensino. Considera ainda os processos de rupturas e fracionamento das organizações dos trabalhadores e dos partidos políticos do campo da independência de classe, impactando as disputas políticas e eleitorais no interior do Sindicato Nacional.
Movimento sindical, formação e escolarização da classe trabalhadora no Distrito Federal
Authors: Rêses Erlando da Silva , Silveira Dimitri Assis
Published: September 2023

O presente artigo discute sobre aspectos históricos do sindicalismo no Brasil e que enfoque é dado para a formação dos(as) trabalhadores/as quanto à escolarização. Analisamos as Convenções Coletivas de Trabalho de três categorias de trabalhadores/as no Distrito Federal no que diz respeito às propostas que garantam o direito à educação dessas pessoas. Conclui-se que os sindicatos tanto tem a capacidade de influenciar diretamente na construção de políticas publicas de Educação de Jovens e Adultos quanto podem agir como agentes mobilizares de trabalhadores/as para a escolarização ou o retorno aos estudos com foco na formação omnilateral e a serviço da classe trabalhadora.
Optic Disc Dysplasia and Situs Inversus
Authors: Bhatti M. Tariq
Published: September 2023

This case report discusses a diagnosis of optic disc dysplasia made on routine examination of a man aged 33 years.
Design of nonlinear control system for motion trajectory of industrial handling robot
Authors: Zhao Haoming , Zhang Xinling
Published: September 2023

Industrial robot is a and multi‐output complex system with strong coupling and high nonlinearity. The motion control accuracy of the system is affected by many factors. To solve the difficulty in establishing the input and output characteristics of robot dynamics modeling, the robot motion model is established through the Lagrangian energy function. At the same time, the nonlinear relationship between angular velocity, angular acceleration, and robot torque is accurately expressed through improved cascaded neural network. In addition, the optimal time planning of the robot's trajectory in joint space is studied using multinomial interpolation method and the particle swarm optimization (PSO). In the simulation experiment, the effect of the proposed dynamic model fitting was outstanding. Under the mixed multinomial difference calculation planning, the angular position trajectories of the three joints changed very smoothly. In the data set application test, the average error of the PSO algorithm was 0.4061 mm and the average task time was 9.101 s, which were lower than other planning algorithms. Experiments showed that the Lagrangian dynamic model analysis based on genetic algorithm cascaded neural network and PSO trajectory scheduling method under mixed multinomial difference had better trajectory planning performance in handling tasks.
Recent Advances in Cell‐Based In Vitro Models to Recreate Human Intestinal Inflammation
Authors: Macedo Maria Helena , Dias Neto Mafalda , Pastrana Lorenzo , Gonçalves Catarina , Xavier Miguel
Published: September 2023

Inflammatory bowel disease causes a major burden to patients and healthcare systems, raising the need to develop effective therapies. Technological advances in cell culture, allied with ethical issues, have propelled in vitro models as essential tools to study disease aetiology, its progression, and possible therapies. Several cell‐based in vitro models of intestinal inflammation have been used, varying in their complexity and methodology to induce inflammation. Immortalized cell lines are extensively used due to their long‐term survival, in contrast to primary cultures that are short‐lived but patient‐specific. Recently, organoids and organ‐chips have demonstrated great potential by being physiologically more relevant. This review aims to shed light on the intricate nature of intestinal inflammation and cover recent works that report cell‐based in vitro models of human intestinal inflammation, encompassing diverse approaches and outcomes.
Effect of Submonolayer ZnS Shell on Biexciton Dynamics of Indium Phosphide Quantum Dots
Authors: Meng Jie , Zhao Qian , Lin Weihua , Pullerits Tönu , Zheng Kaibo
Published: September 2023

Understanding high‐order biexciton dynamics is important for the use of semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) in optoelectronic devices. The core–shell structure can be used to modulate biexciton dynamics by varying the shell thickness and core–shell energy band alignment. In this study, the biexciton dynamics in an unconventional case in which each QD is encapsulated by a submonolayer shell are demonstrated. The result of a transient absorption spectroscopic study shows that InP/ZnS core/shell QDs with submonolayer shell coverage exhibit a prolonged Auger lifetime. However, the QD size dependence of the Auger recombination time features two constant distinct stages instead of the typical monotonic volume scaling law in conventional QDs. It is attributed to the tradeoff between the enlarged QD size and quantum‐well confinement for the Auger processes. However, the abrupt change between the two stages is due to the change in the shell coverage. This study provides a reference for the application of core–shell QDs in optoelectronic devices in which full coverage of the shell is not achieved.
Ligand Modifications Produce Two‐Step Magnetic Switching in a Cobalt(dioxolene) Complex
Authors: KC Khadanand , Woods Toby , Olshansky Lisa
Published: September 2023

Mononuclear monodioxolene valence tautomeric (VT) cobalt complexes typically exist in their low spin (l.s.) CoIII(cat2−) and high spin (h.s.) CoII(sq⋅−) forms (cat2−=catecholato, and sq⋅−=seminquinonato forms of 3,5−di−tBu‐1,2‐dioxolene), which reversibly interconvert via temperature‐dependent intramolecular electron transfer. Typically, the remaining four coordination sites on cobalt are supported by a tetradentate ligand whose properties influence the temperature at which VT occurs. We report that replacing one chelating pyridyl arm of tris(2‐pyridylmethyl)amine (tpa) with a weaker field ortho‐anisole moiety facilitates access to a third magnetic state, and examine a series of related complexes. Variable temperature crystallographic, magnetic, calorimetric, and spectroscopic studies support that this third state is consistent with l.s. CoII(sq⋅−). Thus, our ligand modifications not only provide access to the VT transition from l.s. CoIII(cat2−) to l.s. CoII(sq⋅−), but at higher temperatures, the complex undergoes spin crossover from l.s. CoII(sq⋅−) to h.s. CoII(sq⋅−), representing the first example of two‐step magnetic switching in a mononuclear monodioxolene cobalt complex. We hypothesize that ligand dynamicity may facilitate access to the rarely observed l.s. CoII(sq⋅−) intermediate state, suggesting a new design criterion in the development of stimulus‐responsive multi‐state molecular switches.
Tetrahydrobiopterin from cyanide‐degrading bacterium Bacillus pumilus strain SVD06 induces apoptosis in human lung adenocarcinoma cell (A549)
Authors: Mahendran Ramasamy , Selvaraj Sanjay Prasad , Dhanapal Anand Raj , sarasa Sabna Bhaskaran , Mathias Beutline Malgija , Thankappan Bency , Femil Selta Daniel Raja , Naveen Palanivel , Poorani Rhenghachar , Sundhar Navaneethan , Pillai Mamatha M. , Selvakumar Rajendran , Huang Chih‐Yang , Eswaran Raju , Angayarkanni Jayaraman
Published: September 2023

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential biological cofactor and a derivative of pterin which is considered potent anticancer agents. In continuation of our previous study on the identification of BH4 from cyanide‐degrading Bacillus pumilus, the present study focuses on evaluating the anticancer properties of BH4 on A549, a human lung adenocarcinoma. Anticancer activity analysis shows that BH4 inhibited A549 cell growth after 24 h of incubation with 0.02 mg/mL. In acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining, BH4‐treated A549 cells showed apoptotic morphology. BH4 treatment caused cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase compared to control cells. BH4 augmented p53 expression in alveolar cancer cells by downregulating MDM2 levels. There was downregulation of casp‐3 and upregulation of iNOS gene in BH4‐treated A549 cells. Further, docking studies indicated that BH4 had significant interactions with the above proteins affirming the apoptosis mechanism. Thus, BH4 could be considered a potential anticancer drug.
Cell‐free protein synthesis system: A new frontier for sustainable biotechnology‐based products
Authors: Maharjan Anoth , Park Jung‐Ho
Published: September 2023

Cell‐free protein synthesis (CFPS) system is an innovative technology with a wide range of potential applications that could challenge current thinking and provide solutions to environmental and health issues. CFPS system has been demonstrated to be a successful way of producing biomolecules in a variety of applications, including the biomedical industry. Although there are still obstacles to overcome, its ease of use, versatility, and capacity for integration with other technologies open the door for it to continue serving as a vital instrument in synthetic biology research and industry. In this review, we mainly focus on the cell‐free based platform for various product productions. Moreover, the challenges in the bio‐therapeutic aspect using cell‐free systems and their future prospective for the improvement and sustainability of the cell free systems.
How a Vibrant Board™ Manages Crisis
Authors: Henman Linda
Published: September 2023

Dr. Linda Henman, The Decision Catalyst®, is the author of nine books, including the newly released The Vibrant Board. For more than 40 years she has helped executives and boards accelerate growth by making decisions they can't afford to get wrong. In this article, Dr. Henman explores the board's role in crisis management.
Redefining Board Governance: Navigating Modern Complexities in a Shareholder‐Driven Landscape
Authors: Francis Ty
Published: September 2023

Ty Francis is Chief Advisory Officer for LRN, a global provider of ethics and compliance learning solutions for corporate and institutional clients. In this article, he discusses how boards can actively foster a culture of ethics and integrity throughout an organization.
ChatGPT: The cognitive effects on learning and memory
Authors: Bai Long , Liu Xiangfei , Su Jiacan
Published: September 2023

As the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into our daily lives and educational environments becomes increasingly prevalent, it is necessary to understand the way in which these technologies impact cognitive functions. AI models such as ChatGPT hold immense promise for advancing the field of education, making it easier than ever for educators to support personalized learning and for students to access information. However, there are risks associated with increased AI engagement; individuals may become over‐reliant on AI, resulting in a reduced capacity for critical thinking, or a decline in memory retention. This article provides a comprehensive survey of these potential impacts, emphasizing the need for the judicious utilization of AI, and advocating for an integration approach that supplements, rather than supplants, human cognitive functions. The paper concludes by encouraging further research into the long‐term cognitive effects of interacting with advanced AI models such as ChatGPT.
Lacrimal sac squamous cell carcinoma: From resection to prosthetic rehabilitation. A case report
Authors: Poghosyan Anna , Gharakeshishyan Armine , Misakyan Martin , Minasyan Davit , Khachatryan Parandzem , Mashinyan Karen , Hovhannisyan Sergo , Kharazyan Artavazd
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

There is a lack of consensus and evidence on treatment strategies for lacrimal sac carcinomas. Wide en bloc surgical resection with farther prosthetic rehabilitation could be the treatment option in certain cases.

Malignant epithelial lacrimal sac tumors are rare cancers with high recurrence rates. Diagnosis of these tumors is often delayed as they are confused with chronic dacryocystitis. There is a lack of consensus and evidence on standard treatment strategies for advanced lacrimal sac carcinomas. A case of advanced lacrimal sac squamous cell carcinoma treated with wide en bloc margin‐negative surgical resection with further prosthetic rehabilitation without adjuvant therapy and 38 months of recurrence‐free postoperative follow‐up is presented.
First person profile: Jedd Wolchok, MD
Authors: Nierengarten Mary Beth
Published: September 2023

This news section offers Cancer readers timely information on events, public policy analysis, topical issues, and personalities. In this issue, Jedd Wolchok, MD, was on the front lines of investigating immunotherapy science and developed the first immunologic agents to treat metastatic melanoma. In addition, although cancer deaths are falling globally, there are still substantial variations in mortality by cancer type and geographic location, and genomics rather than care differences drive overall survival rates between men of African ancestry and men of European ancestry with advanced prostate cancer.
Brain–computer interface relieves chronic chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Prinsloo Sarah , Kaptchuk Ted J. , De Ridder Dirk , Lyle Randall , Bruera Eduardo , Novy Diane , Barcenas Carlos H. , Cohen Lorenzo G.
Published: September 2023

Background

Chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) includes negative sensations that remain a major chronic problem for cancer survivors. Previous research demonstrated that neurofeedback (a closed‐loop brain–computer interface [BCI]) was effective at treating CIPN versus a waitlist control (WLC). The authors' a priori hypothesis was that BCI would be superior to placebo feedback (placebo control [PLC]) and to WLC in alleviating CIPN and that changes in brain activity would predict symptom report.

Methods

Randomization to one of three conditions occurred between November 2014 and November 2018. Breast cancer survivors no longer in treatment were assessed at baseline, at the end of 20 treatment sessions, and 1 month later. Auditory and visual rewards were given over 20 sessions based on each patient's ability to modify their own electroencephalographic signals. The Pain Quality Assessment Scale (PQAS) at the end of treatment was the primary outcome, and changes in electroencephalographic signals and 1‐month data also were examined.

Results

The BCI and PLC groups reported significant symptom reduction. The BCI group demonstrated larger effect size differences from the WLC group than the PLC group (mean change score: BCI vs. WLC, −2.60 vs. 0.38; 95% confidence interval, −3.67, −1.46 [p = .000; effect size, 1.07]; PLC, −2.26; 95% confidence interval, −3.33, −1.19 [p = .001 vs. WLC; effect size, 0.9]). At 1 month, symptoms continued to improve only for the BCI group. Targeted brain changes at the end of treatment predicted symptoms at 1 month for the BCI group only.

Conclusions

BCI is a promising treatment for CIPN and may have a longer lasting effect than placebo (nonspecific BCI), which is an important consideration for long‐term symptom relief. Although scientifically interesting, the ability to separate real from placebo treatment may not be as important as understanding the placebo effects differently from effects of the intervention.

Plain Language Summary

Chemotherapy‐induced nerve pain (neuropathy) can be disabling for cancer survivors; however, the way symptoms are felt depends on how the brain interprets the signals from nerves in the body.

We determined that the perception of neuropathy can be changed by working directly with the brain.

Survivors in our trial played 20 sessions of a type of video game that was designed to change the way the brain processed sensation and movement.

In this, our second trial, we again observed significant improvement in symptoms that lasted after the treatment was complete.
The three most important words in faculty workload: transparency, transparency, transparency
Authors: Spencer Juliet , Horn Dewayanna
Published: September 2023

Among the most contentious topics between faculty and administration in higher education is defining what constitutes fair and equitable faculty workload. The provost, as chief academic officer, oversees the faculty workload policy, yet implementation is typically carried out at the department level. Specific teaching assignments for each faculty member are determined by the department chair, who must address the needs of the faculty and the department, with oversight from the dean. Like the real estate adage about location, location, location, we suggest that transparency is a critical factor for chairs in assigning faculty workload. Individual faculty sometimes feel that they are doing more work than their colleagues, and a lack of transparency regarding teaching assignments can cause suspicions of favoritism and inequity. Transparency leads to increased trust and a sense of accountability between faculty and academic leaders (O’Meara et al. 2019). Here we discuss three strategies for increasing transparency and, thus, faculty satisfaction in workload matters.
Second Chance Pell sets the stage for rapid expansion of prison college programs
Authors: D’Orio Wayne
Published: September 2023

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Higher education is in need of some good news. The Supreme Court has struck down affirmative action in college admissions and nixed President Biden's expansive idea to cancel $400 billion of student debt. Polls show ongoing deterioration of the public's faith in the importance of higher education, and to top it off, an enrollment cliff is imminent.
Coaching program sets struggling students up for success
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: September 2023

BOSTON — When student affairs staff at Texas State University wanted to boost student retention and graduation rates, they decided to focus on students on academic probation and in developmental education courses. Knowing that 20% of first‐year students find themselves on academic probation, and 75% of those students don’t get into good academic standing, so they lose their financial aid and have to leave the institution, according to Victoria Black, Associate Dean for Student Services at Texas State University. To set those struggling students on a path to success, staff developed a success coaching program, resulting in improved GPAs for at least 50% of students who received success coaching at least three times. Also, about 75% of students who received coaching at least two times described the program as helpful, Black said during a presentation at the annual conference for NASPA — Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education.
The genetic structuring in pollinating wasps of Ficus hispida in continental Asia
Authors: Deng Xiaoxia , Liao Yaolin , Wong Da‐Mien , Yu Hui
Published: September 2023

The interaction between figs and fig wasps provides a striking example of obligate brood site pollination mutualism. Monoecious figs, constituting independent radiations in each tropical biome, are present in significant proportions worldwide, but in continental Asia, dioecious figs have diverged into various niches, making the region's assemblage remarkably diverse. However, the reproductive success of figs and fig wasps largely depends on the fig wasp dispersal process. Monoecious fig pollinators in continental Asian tropical rain forests exhibit high gene flow of the plant, while many dioecious fig pollinators have a more restricted gene flow. However, there are limited studies on the genetic structure of dioecious Ficus pollinators that pollinate figs with intermediate gene flow. Here, we used molecular methods to investigate the genetic structure of pollinating wasps of the widely distributed dioecious Ficus hispida in China and Southeast Asia. Sequence data from two gene regions were used: the mitochondrial protein‐coding gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and the nuclear 28S genes. Both molecular and morphological results support two fig wasp species at our sampling sites. Our findings suggest that for widely sympatric Ficus species in continental Asia, monoecious figs presenting long gene glow have the fewest fig wasp species, followed by dioecious figs presenting intermediate gene flow, and dioecious figs presenting local gene flow have the most fig wasp species.
Correlation of the electronic structure and Li‐ion mobility with modulus and hardness in LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 cathodes by combined near edge X‐ray absorption finestructure spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and nanoindentation
Authors: Hausen Florian , Scheer Niklas , Ying Bixian , Kleiner Karin
Published: September 2023

The electrochemical performance of cathode materials in Li‐ion batteries is reflected in macroscopic observables such as the capacity, the voltage, and the state of charge (SOC). However, the physical origin of performance parameters are atomistic processes that scale up to a macroscopic picture. Thus, revealing the function and failure of electrochemical devices requires a multiscale (and ‐time) approach using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. In this work, we combine near‐edge X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (NEXAFS) to determine the chemical binding state of transition metals in LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (NCM622), electrochemical strain microscopy to understand the Li‐ion mobility in such materials, and nanoindentation to relate the mechanical properties exhibited by the material to the chemical state and ion mobility. Strikingly, a clear correlation between the chemical binding, the mechanical properties, and the Li‐ion mobility is found. Thereby, the significant relation of chemo‐mechanical properties of NCM622 on a local and global scale is clearly demonstrated.
Policy entrepreneurship on the street‐level: A systematic literature review
Authors: Edri‐Peer Ofek , Silveira Mariana Costa , Davidovitz Maayan , Frisch‐Aviram Neomi , Shehade Jamal , Diab Hadeel , Golan‐Nadir Niva , Cohen Nissim
Published: September 2023

What are the differences between policy entrepreneurship and street‐level policy entrepreneurship? The research on street‐level policy entrepreneurship is still in its infancy, yet in the past few years, it has received greater research attention. This article systematically reviews the current research published on this topic and compares it to previous findings on policy entrepreneurs. Our findings provide an analysis of street‐level policy entrepreneurs' characteristics, motivations, traits, and strategies, differentiating types of street‐level bureaucrats (SLBs). We also find three new strategies unique to SLBs: consistency over time, learning from others, and seeking legitimacy. We conclude by identifying the main differences between traditional entrepreneurs and street‐level entrepreneurs and providing suggestions for further research.
Power generation for off‐grid building with a small segments parabolic dish concentrator and ORC unit: Numerical investigation
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Jalil , Mohebbi Arash , Loni Reyhaneh , Najafi Gholamhassan
Published: September 2023

In this research, the small segments parabolic dish concentrator (SSPDC) with a modified cavity was optically and thermally investigated. The SSPDC consisted of small mirrors that were tracking the sun individually. The SSPDC allows using different concentration ratios and aperture areas. Oil, pure water, and water + perypolen glycol (PG) were evaluated as working fluids. Different structural characteristics of the solar system were investigated, including dish focal distance, cavity outer diameter, and cavity aperture area. Then the investigated solar system was explored as a heat source of an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) unit for providing the power for a house. Finally, some environmental parameters of the investigated ORC units, such as carbon dioxide emission and carbon dioxide credits, were evaluated. The results reveal that the investigated solar unit had a dish depth of 0.14 m, a focal distance of 1 m, a cavity aperture outer diameter of 0.1 m, and a cavity aperture inner diameter of 0.08 m for a 10‐mrad optical error and a 1° tracking error. Usage of pure water is recommended for low‐temperature application, water + PG for medium‐temperature application, and oil for high‐temperature application. It was concluded that two units of the proposed ORC could provide energy to the house with solar radiation of more than 800 W/m2 and the number of units should be increased for achieving the required power with decreasing solar radiation.
Disseminated adult Wilms tumor in pregnancy: Leveraging multidisciplinary care in a low‐resource setting
Authors: Sepenu Perez , Swarray‐Deen Alim , Scott Aba , Boafor Theodore K. , Baah Winfred K. , Kyei Mathew K. , Coleman Jerry
Published: September 2023

Wilms tumor (WT) occurring in adults is rare and even much more rarely found to coexist with pregnancy. Clinical outcome in adults is worse overall compared with pediatric patients with WT and is often misdiagnosed with no standardized protocols for care guided by high‐evidence clinical trials. We present a case of a 23‐year‐old woman diagnosed with WT who was found to be pregnant immediately following nephrectomy. Workup findings showed that she had disseminated disease but was successfully managed in a multidisciplinary team setting with modified intrapartum chemotherapy followed by postpartum chemotherapy. In low‐resource settings, management protocols for adult patients with WT can be individualized by multidisciplinary teams to leverage available resources for best outcomes.
Enhancing near‐infrared fluorescence intensity and stability of PLGA‐b‐PEG micelles by introducing Gd‐DOTA at the core boundary
Authors: Doan Thi Kim Dung , Umezawa Masakazu , Okubo Kyohei , Kamimura Masao , Soga Kohei
Published: September 2023

Micelles have been extensively used in biomedicine as potential carriers of hydrophobic fluorescent dyes. Their small diameters can potentially enable them to evade recognition by the reticuloendothelial system, resulting in prolonged circulation. Nevertheless, their lack of stability in physiological environments limits the imaging utility of micelles. In particular, when a dye sensitive to water, such as IR‐1061, is encapsulated in the micelle core, the destabilized structure leads to interactions between water and dye, degrading the fluorescence. In this study, we investigated a method to improve micelle stability utilizing the electrical effect of gadolinium (Gd3+) and tetraazacyclododecane tetraacetic acid (DOTA), introduced into the micelles. Three micellar structures, one containing a poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid)‐block‐poly(ethylene glycol) (PLGA‐b‐PEG) block copolymer, and two other structures, including PLGA‐b‐PEG with DOTA or Gd‐DOTA introduced at the boundary of PLGA and PEG, were prepared with IR‐1061 in the core. Structures that contained DOTA at the border of the PLGA core and PEG shell exhibited much higher fluorescence intensity than probes without DOTA. With Gd3+ ions at the DOTA center, fluorescence stability was enhanced remarkably in physiological environments. Most interesting is the finding that fluorescence is enhanced with increased Gd‐DOTA concentrations. In conclusion, we found that overall fluorescence and stability are improved by introducing Gd‐DOTA at the boundary of the PLGA core and PEG shell. Improving micelle stability is crucial for further biomedical applications of micellar probes such as bimodal fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging.
CRISPR delivery with extracellular vesicles: Promises and challenges
Authors: Berggreen Anne Højberg , Petersen Julie Lund , Lin Lin , Benabdellah Karim , Luo Yonglun
Published: September 2023

The CRISPR gene editing tool holds great potential for curing genetic disorders. However, the safe, efficient, and specific delivery of the CRISPR/Cas9 components into cells and tissues remains a challenge. While many currently available delivery methods achieve high levels of gene editing effects in vivo, they often result in genotoxicity and immunogenicity. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are cell‐derived lipid nanoparticles, are capable of transferring protein and nucleic acid cargoes between cells, making them a promising endogenous alternative to synthetic delivery methods. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the currently available strategies for EV‐mediated delivery of CRISPR/Cas9. These strategies include cell‐based, passive loading obtained by overexpression of CRISPR/Cas9, active loading involving protein or RNA dimerization, and loading into already purified EVs. All these approaches suggest that EV‐based CRISPR/Cas9 delivery is useful for achieving both in vitro and in vivo gene editing. Despite that, substantial variations in cellular uptake and gene editing efficiencies indicate that further improvement and standardization are required for the therapeutic use of EVs as a CRISPR/Cas9 delivery vehicle. These improvements include, but is not limited to, the high‐yield purification of EVs, increased loading and release efficiencies, as well as improved tissue‐ or cell‐specific targeting specificities.
The effects of agricultural commercialization on the multidimensional poverty of rural households: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Lei , Li Cong , Zhu Nong
Published: September 2023

Based on data from the China Family Panel Survey, this paper explores the impact of agricultural commercialization on household multidimensional poverty and its mechanism. The results show that agricultural commercialization has significantly reduced household multidimensional poverty, especially poverty in health and living standard. However, it may be that the income from commercialization has not all been converted into household multidimensional welfare, making the multidimensional poverty reduction effect of commercialization smaller than the income poverty reduction effect. Further research shows that a possible channel for agricultural commercialization to reduce multidimensional poverty is to improve farmers' ability to convert their endowments into earnings and consumption.
A 4–5.2 GHz PLL with 74.8 fs RMS jitter in 28 nm for RF Sampling Transceiver application
Authors: Zhao Chao , Zhang Hao , Zhang Youming , Tang Xusheng , Pan Chengyu
Published: September 2023

This paper presents a novel ultra low jitter phase‐locked loop (PLL) circuit architecture for RF Sampling Transceiver. The programmable frequency divider with duty cycle expansion and the new phase frequency detector and charge pump circuit are used to solve the problem of voltage domain conversion of narrow pulses in the traditional high‐performance charge pump PLL structure. The traditional structure degrades charge pump linearity and noise, thus deteriorating overall jitter performance. Furthermore, voltage‐controlled oscillator uses the dual core structure and the second harmonic suppression technology, combined with the proposed new switching capacitor structure, and achieves −139.3 dBc/Hz phase noise at the 1 MHz frequency offset of the 5.2 GHz carrier under the open loop state. The PLL implemented in a standard Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company 28 nm process occupies a core area of 0.4 mm2 and generates a frequency ranging from 4 to 5.2 GHz using 50 MHz oscillator input, the power consumption is 40 mW. It achieves 74.8 fs root‐mean‐square jitter integrated from 10 KHz to 30 MHz. When the PLL output is divided by 2, the output phase noise at 1 MHz frequency offset is −125.75 dBc/Hz, and the PLL FoM is −246.
Effect of embedded periodic fiber placement gap defects on the microstructure and bistable behavior of thermoplastic composite laminates
Authors: Ma Yonglong , Zhang Zheng , Wang Sheng , Pan Baisong , Sun Min , Zhang Guang , Chai Hao , Wu Huaping , Jiang Shaofei
Published: September 2023

By inducing periodic gaps, conventional automated fiber placement avoids overlap defects, which are generally prohibited in composite component manufacturing. However, bistable laminates are highly sensitive to imperfections, and it is critical to explore the effect of periodic gaps on the performance of bistable laminates. The principal curvatures and load–displacement curves of thermoplastic composite laminates with manually embedded periodic gaps was studied using experimental and numerical methods in this paper. SEM microscopy was used to observe the gap areas of the cross section of laminates to assess the microstructure of gaps with width variations after curing. In addition, a numerical method was proposed based on the experimentally determined evolution of gap widths and thicknesses of laminate. Subsequently, the effects of gap width, single‐layer thickness, and total thickness on the principal curvature were investigated. Gaps embedded in the 0° and 90° layers of bistable laminates demonstrated a substantial decrease in the snap load of the laminates. Interestingly, by embedding different gap widths in the 0° layers of the laminates, the snap load discrepancy between the snap‐through and snap‐back processes increased as the gap width widened, and the same trend was also found in the curvatures in the two stable states.

Highlights

Bistable characteristics of laminates with periodic gap defects.

Utilizing gaps embedding in 0° layer to tailor the mechanical properties.
Low‐velocity impact properties of carbon fiber/ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene fiber hybrid composites
Authors: Zhou Xia , Xu Weihao , Zhou Haili , Zhang Yan , Wang Ping , Gu Zhiqi , Li Yuanyuan
Published: September 2023

To understand the hybrid fiber enhanced impact‐resistance performance of composite laminates. In particular, the effects of different parameters, such as hybrid fiber ratios and plying modes, were investigated. The effects of UHMWPE short fibers (UHMWPESFs) fiber content and ply angle changes on the impact resistance of Carbon fiber/ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene short fiber hybrid composite (CUFHRP) laminates were investigated in this article. The impact resistance of the CUFHRP laminate was tested by the drop weight test and residual strength test after impact. The results indicated that the peak load and absorption energy of the specimen with a fiber content of 15 g/m2 were the highest, reaching 6.543 kN and 16.51 J, respectively. Specimens with different ply modes of [0/−45/45/90]2s showed the most obvious effect on the maximum load. Its maximum load was 28.93% higher than that of the original sample. The critical damage threshold load of composite laminates is improved, and the impact resistance is strengthened.

Highlights

Study to improve the impact resistance of the composite on the basis of the hybrid structure.

Report the optimal parameters of the effects on the impact resistance of the composite, such as: hybrid fiber ratios and plying modes.

Reveal the fundamental failure mode of hybrid structure composite laminates under low‐velocity impact.