bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chilean Cinema in the Twenty-First-Century World
Authors:   Paris VIII Vincennes-Saint-Denis, Albornoz Fariña Ignacio Nicolás
Published: September 2021

Vania Barraza y Carl Fischer, eds. Chilean Cinema in the Twenty-First-Century World Detroit, EE. UU., Wayne State University Press, 2020,
REVISIÓN DESDE EL DESEMPEÑO LABORAL AL VÍNCULO CON ENFERMERÍA
Authors: Jiménez Castro Andrés , Cheverría Rivera Sofia ,   Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí
Published: September 2021

El recurso humano es el principal activo con el cual cuenta una institución pública o privada; esto se debe a que las organizaciones necesariamente están compuestas por personas, y sin ellas no podrían existir. Las corrientes modernas de administración en sistemas de salud están poniendo mayor atención al desempeño de las organizaciones, relacionándolas con el desempeño de su capital humano. OBJETIVO: Describir los conceptos y dimensiones del desempeño laboral planteado por diferentes autores en administración, mediante una revisión de literatura, y su relación con estudios realizados en enfermería. METODOLOGÍA: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica sistematizada sobre desempeño laboral en la Biblioteca Virtual Universitaria, en Centro de Recursos Académicos Informáticos Virtuales (CREATIVA), utilizando las bases de datos PubMed, Lilacs, Scielo y Scopus, en idioma portugués, inglés y español, entre los años 2010 y 2020. RESULTADOS: Se presentan dos áreas temáticas preestablecidas: La primera, es revisión de literatura en desempeño laboral y la segunda estudios en desempeño laboral de enfermería. Estas áreas se fueron relacionando con dimensiones teóricas del desempeño laboral. CONCLUSIÓN: Conocer el nivel el desempeño laboral del profesional de enfermería y las áreas que abarcan los conceptos teóricos en la literatura en administración y recurso humano, entrega mayores competencias, formación continua, y mayor profesionalismo (autonomía, comunicación y participación en organizaciones sanitarias). De esta forma, ayuda a establecer estrategias de abordaje para conocer las falencias del desempeño en enfermería, realizar un análisis del contexto en donde se desarrolla el fenómeno en los profesionales y poder entregar una solución, mejorando el desempeño del profesional o del equipo de salud.
Examining the word family through word lists
Authors: Brown Dale
Published: September 2021

The choice of lexical unit has important consequences for L2 vocabulary research, testing and instruction. In recent years, the most widely used lexical unit has been the word family. This study examines the characteristics of word lists based on the word family and explores the levels of text coverage such lists may provide should the assumption that learners can deal with word families be incorrect. This is pursued through the detailed examination of a set of word-family-based word lists. The study finds that such word lists pose a number of challenges, including the number of word forms with multiple affixes, the number of word forms with more challenging affixes, and the number of word families in which the base word is not the most frequently occurring member. Moreover, the first thousand word families in particular are shown to be challenging. The study then demonstrates that if learners are unable to deal with the complexity of word families, even to a relatively small degree, word-family-based lists may provide far lower text coverage levels than may be assumed. It concludes that in work on second language vocabulary, careful consideration is needed of the appropriacy of the word family as the lexical unit and highlights the range of work based on the word family that may need reevaluating.
A Framework for Assessment of Micro Level Vulnerability to Climate Variability of Farmers: A Case Study in Kerala, India
Authors: Ajmal S. , Lazarus T. Paul , Vijayan Aswathy , Joseph Brigit , Manju R. V.
Published: September 2021

The vulnerability of farmers to climate variability is an important topic of discussion. It varies depending upon diverse factors that disturbing it, likewise, the extent of vulnerability varies according to different levels, i.e.; from a whole country level to an individual level or in other words from macro to micro level. This study attempts to build a framework for the assessment of the microlevel vulnerability of farmers. A vulnerability index was made from normalized values of three major component indices (sensitivity, exposure, and adaptive capacity), which is made up of a selected number of sub components. The study was conducted by selecting respondents from two districts of Kerala, and it was found that this method can be used as an empirical method to interpret the vulnerability to climate variability, keeping the fact that it is only a constrained measure of risk.
Farmers’ Attitude towards Custom Hiring Centers: An Exploratory Study in Punjab
Authors: Kumar Kuldeep , Meena H. R. , Kadian K. S. , Meena B. S. , Bhandari Gunjan , Kaur Jasvinder
Published: September 2021

Stubble burning is a major threat to environment in trans- gangetic plain region, where there exists bright prospect to reap the benefits of custom hiring centers by leveraging the suitable farm machinery helpful in overcoming the stubble burning issue. Present study was conducted in Punjab state and three districts namely, Ludhiana, Sangrur, Moga were selected purposively due to highest stubble burning cases in last five years. From each district two block were selected randomly. Subsequently, three villages from each block were randomly selected. Finally, from each village 20 respondents were selected randomly constituting of total 360 farmers. Two scales were constructed exclusively for the study in order to measure the attitude of farmers towards custom hiring centres (CHCs) and elicitation of perception regarding stubble burning.  Results indicated that majority of the respondents had favorable attitude towards CHCs, followed by 22.78 per cent of respondents having neutral attitude towards CHCs and only 8.89 per cent of respondents has unfavorable attitude towards CHCs. CHCs were not sufficient in number to cater the high demand during the peak seasons. Those machines which are of least demand should be replaced by machines with high demand. Majority of the respondents agreed that crop residue burning has a negative effect on plant health, air, human health, animal health, biodiversity, vehicular traffic and soil health. It was found that less than half (47.23%) of the respondent had high level of perception.
A Review on Mycorrhizae and Related Endophytic Fungi as Potential Sources of Enzymes for the Bio-Economy
Authors: Adeoyo O. R.
Published: September 2021

Ericoid mycorrhizal (ERM) fungi and related fungal root endophytes do form symbiotic associations with roots of ericaceous plants. These groups of fungi can have profound impact on community of plants in soil environment. Studies conducted on Hymenoscyphus ericae revealed that H. ericae can produce extracellular enzymes such as phosphatases, proteases, cellulases and pectinases, which support the utilization of nitrogen, phosphorus and permitting access to other valuable nutrient embedded within the soil and decaying plant tissues. Most studies conducted on extracellular enzymes from these fungi majorly focused on the use of plating method to determine activity. Currently, there is little information on extracellular enzymes from ERM for the bio-economy, but there are proofs that some ericoid, ectomycorrhizal and dark septate endophytic fungi have the potential to produce a good number of hydrolytic enzymes in vitro. Therefore, this review seeks to employ available information on these fungi and their ability to produce enzymes when growing in liquid medium where their production can be optimized for commercial purposes.
Assured learning‐enabled autonomy: A metacognitive reinforcement learning framework
Authors: Mustafa Aquib , Mazouchi Majid , Nageshrao Subramanya , Modares Hamidreza
Published: September 2021

Reinforcement learning (RL) agents with pre‐specified reward functions cannot provide guaranteed safety across variety of circumstances that an uncertain system might encounter. To guarantee performance while assuring satisfaction of safety constraints across variety of circumstances, an assured autonomous control framework is presented in this article by empowering RL algorithms with metacognitive learning capabilities. More specifically, adapting the reward function parameters of the RL agent is performed in a metacognitive decision‐making layer to assure the feasibility of RL agent. That is, to assure that the learned policy by the RL agent satisfies safety constraints specified by signal temporal logic while achieving as much performance as possible. The metacognitive layer monitors any possible future safety violation under the actions of the RL agent and employs a higher‐layer Bayesian RL algorithm to proactively adapt the reward function for the lower‐layer RL agent. To minimize the higher‐layer Bayesian RL intervention, a fitness function is leveraged by the metacognitive layer as a metric to evaluate success of the lower‐layer RL agent in satisfaction of safety and liveness specifications, and the higher‐layer Bayesian RL intervenes only if there is a risk of lower‐layer RL failure. Finally, a simulation example is provided to validate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Development of a health equity journal club to address health care disparities and improve cultural competence among emergency medicine practitioners
Authors: Smith Kristyn J. , Harris Erica M. , Albazzaz Samara , Carter Merle A.
Published: September 2021

Health care disparities have been magnified by the COVID‐19 pandemic. Only recently has the medical community acknowledged implicit bias and systemic racism as a public health emergency. Graduate medical education has been slow to adopt curricula beyond lecture‐based formats that specifically address social determinants of health (SDOH) and its impact on communities. Curricula addressing unconscious (implicit) biases and their influence on patient care has not been widely adopted. The emergency department (ED) has a unique role in addressing health care disparities. Approximately 69% of emergency medicine residency programs incorporate cultural competency training in their curricula. Most are primarily lecture‐based without a longitudinal component, and gaps exist in content, quality, and expertise of the presenters. Lecture‐based formats may not be best suited to manage the nuanced conversations necessary to dismantle biases and socialized beliefs that result in disparities for marginalized communities. Reporting little or no education in medical school related to SDOH, residents acknowledge that barriers to care exist, but have limited or no knowledge of what those barriers are or how mitigate them. To improve health equity, understanding and competence in caring for culturally and ethnically diverse populations, we developed a monthly, longitudinal, SDOH‐ and cultural competency–based “health equity journal club” (HEJC) for all levels of ED staff. Four educational domains were developed, and specific content within each domain was selected based on predetermined criteria. Content for each session was mapped to the ACGME program and core competency milestone requirements, ACGME Clinical Learning Environment (CLER) mandates, and The Joint Commission's institutional recommendations for culturally competent care. The HEJC series has been successful in reducing barriers to identifying biases in health care; translating literature to clinical care; generating initiatives and interdisciplinary research; and cultivating interest in community health, health advocacy, and public policy.
Identification of a novel TBX5 c.755 + 1 G > A variant and related pathogenesis in a family with Holt–Oram syndrome
Authors: Wang De‐Gang , Dong Xing‐Sheng , Xiong Yi , Li Zhi‐Ming , Xie Ying‐Jun , Liang Shu‐Hua , Huang Tian‐Hua
Published: September 2021

The proband with congenital heart disease and abnormal thumb was clinically diagnosed as Holt–Oram syndrome (HOS). A novel variant, T‐box transcription factor 5 (TBX5) c.755 + 1 G > A, was identified in the proband via whole exome sequencing and validated using Sanger sequencing. Pedigree analysis and clinical examinations revealed three/seven individuals over three generations within the family, with features suggestive of HOS. Deep amplicon sequencing confirmed that the allele frequencies of the novel variant in the proband (III‐1), her brother (III‐2), and her mother (II‐2) were 50%, 48.3%, and 38.1%, respectively, indicating that III‐1 and III‐2 harbored heterozygous variants, while II‐2 harbored mosaic heterozygous variants. The minigene splicing assay showed that the novel variant affected the normal splicing of exon 7, resulting in the production of abnormal TBX5 transcripts. Reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses revealed that the novel variant upregulated TBX5 expression at the transcriptional and translational levels. Nuclear localization assay demonstrated impaired nuclear localization of the mutant TBX5. Cell viability assay revealed the inhibition of cell activity by the mutant TBX5. Our findings indicate that the novel variant was potentially induced HOS, probably by causing aberrant splicing, reducing the enrichment of nuclear TBX5 protein, and inhibiting cellular proliferation.
Diastereoselective Synthesis of Polysubstituted Pyrrolidines/Dihydropyrroles: Photochemical Properties of Polysubstituted Pyrroles
Authors: Iddum Satyanarayana , Yang Ding‐Yah , Liou Teau‐Jiuan
Published: September 2021

Polysubstituted pyrrolidines/dihydropyrroles and the corresponding pyrrole derivatives were synthesized via three‐component/pseudo four‐component reaction of chalcone, benzylamine and benzaldehyde, and followed by DDQ oxidation. When exposed to UV light under aerobic conditions, the prepared pyrrole derivatives were found to be light‐sensitive and undergo oxidative ring‐opening reaction to yield the corresponding enamides.
α,α'‐Bis (imino)‐2,3:5,6‐bis (pentamethylene)pyridines appended with benzhydryl and cycloalkyl substituents: Probing their effectiveness as tunable N,N,N‐supports for cobalt ethylene polymerization catalysts
Authors: Han Mingyang , Oleynik Ivan I. , Ma Yanping , Oleynik Irina V. , Solan Gregory A. , Liang Tongling , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: September 2021

A single‐pot method has been utilized to prepare the bis(cycloheptyl)fused N,N,N‐cobalt (II) chloride complexes, [2,3:5,6‐{C4H8C(NAr)}2C5H3N]CoCl2 (Ar = 2,6‐(C5H9)2–4‐(CHPh2)C6H2 Co1, 2‐(C5H9)‐4,6‐(CHPh2)2C6H2 Co2, 2‐(C6H11)‐4,6‐(CHPh2)2C6H2 Co3, 2‐(C8H15)‐4,6‐(CHPh2)2C6H2 Co4, 2‐(C12H23)‐4,6‐(CHPh2)2C6H2 Co5) in reasonable yields. The molecular structure of Co1 highlights not only the steric shielding of the metal center provided by the N‐2,6‐dicyclopentyl‐4‐benzhydrylphenyl groups but also the trans‐configuration of the puckered sections of the two fused seven‐membered rings. Besides this structural characterization, all complexes have been characterized by elemental analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) spectroscopy. In the presence of modified methylaluminoxane (MMAO) or methylaluminoxane (MAO), Co1–Co5 afforded highly linear polyethylenes (Tm′s > 126°C) with dispersities that were influenced by the type of aluminoxane activator [Mw/Mn range: 1.53–1.81 (MMAO) vs. 8.96–15.5 (MAO)]. In common to both co‐catalysts, the catalytic activity of the precatalysts fell in the order: Co1 > Co2 > Co5 > Co4 ~ Co3, reflecting the differences in steric/electronic properties of the ortho‐cycloalkyl substituents. In terms of thermostability of the catalyst, Co1/MMAO attained optimal performance at 30°C (2.04 × 106 g PE mol−1[Co] h−1), while Co1/MAO reached it at 60°C albeit with lower productivity (0.70 × 106 g PE mol−1[Co] h−1). In general, the polyethylenes were of reasonably high molecular weight (e.g., between 39.9 and 65.8 kg mol−1 using MMAO) which can be linked to the steric hindrance imposed on chain transfer by the cycloalkyl and benzhydryl ortho‐substituents.
Synthesis, structural characterization, density functional theory calculations, and antimicrobial, anticancer, and antimetastatic properties of nanosized heteroleptic complexes of cocaine/TMEDA with d‐block metal ions
Authors: Abdallah Abanoub Mosaad , Zaki Nadia G. , Mahmoud Walaa H. , El Kerdawy Ahmed M. , Mohamed Gehad G.
Published: September 2021

In the field of transition metal chemistry, the development of transition metal‐based drugs for the treatment of diseases such as cancer or microbial infections with minimization of adverse effects and drug resistance constitutes an active area of research. Herein, eight novel nanosized heteroleptic complexes of cocaine/TMEDA with the formula [M(COC)(TMEDA)Cly(OH2)z]nCl·xH2O (M = Cr(III), Mn(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II); COC = cocaine; TMEDA = N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylenediamine, y = 1–2; z = 0–1; n = 0–1; and x = 0–2) were synthesized and structurally characterized via elemental analysis, molar conductivity, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. The thermal properties and kinetic thermodynamic parameters of the synthesized complexes were also studied. The geometry and electronic structures were investigated via density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The antiproliferative activity of the complexes on HepG‐2 and MCF‐7 cancer cell lines was quantified via MTT assay. The Fe(III) and Cd(II) complexes exhibited promising cytotoxic activities against the HepG‐2 and MCF‐7 cancer cell lines, respectively, with minimum effect on HFB4 human normal cells. Further molecular mechanistic studies were performed on the Cd(II) complex to inspect its influence on different cancer pathophysiology‐related processes in the MCF‐7 cell line including metastasis, apoptosis, and cellular oxidative stress and on the cellular levels of the human tumor suppressor nuclear proteins p21 and p27. The results revealed that the Cd(II) complex is a promising anticancer agent that acts through several molecular mechanisms with minimum effect on the normal cells and with additional antimetastatic properties. Furthermore, the antibacterial and antifungal activities of the prepared complexes were investigated.
Conservation of transnational species: The tensions between legal requirements and best scientific evidence
Authors: Pinn Eunice H. , Macleod Kelly , Tasker Mark L.
Published: September 2021

This paper describes the tensions between the legal requirements for conservation and the most beneficial biological practice for mobile transnational marine species, using the harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) in European Atlantic waters as a case study.

Harbour porpoise are the smallest and one of the most abundant cetaceans occurring throughout the European continental shelf waters, and are affected by human activities occurring in the same waters, especially certain fishing activities.

The Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (the Bern Convention) and its implementing legislation the Council Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora 92/43/EEC (i.e. the Habitats Directive) are the main legal drivers for species conservation throughout the European Union. They aim for the long‐term achievement of favourable conservation status and make provision for the use of two conservation measures: protected areas and strict protection measures. The strict protection measures aim to ensure that all forms of deliberate killing are prevented, and that where incidental killing and capture occurs, it does not have a negative effect on conservation status.

The conservation of harbour porpoise is currently dependent upon tackling the key issue of bycatch in fisheries. However, in challenges to Member States on their application of the Habitats Directive, the European Commission has chosen to focus on site designation rather than the implementation of the strict protection measures required to monitor and, where necessary, reduce bycatch.

This tension between a legal focus on the designation of protected areas instead of tackling threats such as bycatch has potentially led to negative conservation consequences for harbour porpoise and, in part, may explain why wider marine biodiversity has continued to deteriorate in Europe.
Developing Design Criteria for Emerging Technologies in Ohio
Authors: Patterson Megan E. , Bohrerova Zuzana , Wolfe Timothy A. , Weavers Linda K.
Published: September 2021

Key Takeaways

Public water systems in Ohio have been reluctant to introduce new treatment technologies because of the unwieldy nature of current requirements for their approval.

Design criteria are in place for approval of conventional treatment technologies; a similar approach could reduce the regulatory barrier for more appropriate or cost‐effective emerging technologies.

The Ohio Water Resources Center worked with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and Ohio AWWA to develop design criteria for low‐pressure membrane filtration. The criteria provide product‐specific flux values for various feedwater qualities.
Affordability and Equity Considerations for Rate‐Setting
Authors: Rothstein Eric , Berahzer Stacey Isaac , Crea Joe , Matichich Michael
Published: September 2021

Key Takeaways

Historically narrow definitions of water service as provision of a metered commodity do not encompass the extent to which all people benefit from access to safe, reliable water. A more expansive definition of water service is warranted.

Water utilities are major economic actors and can—and should—play a role in making water universally accessible and affordable in their communities.

The industry's existing cost‐of‐service analysis methods for rate‐setting may be tailored to better advance water affordability and equity.
Psychometric properties of the Beck Depression Inventory‐II in progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Cuoco Sofia , Cappiello Arianna , Abate Filomena , Tepedino Maria Francesca , Erro Roberto , Volpe Giampiero , Pellecchia Maria Teresa , Barone Paolo , Picillo Marina
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Depression is one of the most common neuropsychiatric symptoms in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). Yet, few studies have examined the ability of available instruments to detect depressive symptoms in PSP. Aims of the present study were to (I) report psychometric properties of the Beck Depression Inventory Second Edition (BDI‐II) in PSP, (II) establish the BDI‐II cut‐off indicating the presence of depression in PSP and (III) describe clinical correlates as well as correlation with quality of life of depressive symptoms in PSP.

Design, setting and participants

: At the Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases of the University of Salerno, Italy, the BDI‐II was validated in 62 PSP patients diagnosed according to the Movement Disorder Society criteria. Patients underwent a clinical interview, a motor evaluation, extensive cognitive and behavioral testing.

Results

The mean BDI‐II total score was 15.92 ± 10.31. The internal consistency was high (Cronbach's alpha = 0.868); corrected item‐total correlation was >0.40 for the majority of items. The significant and moderate correlation of the BDI‐II with other tools evaluating depressive symptoms indicated adequate convergent validity of the scale. The satisfactory cut‐off to identify patients with clinically significant depression was >14.5. We also showed a correlation between higher scores on BDI‐II and lower quality of life, irrespective of motor and cognitive burden.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the BDI‐II is a reliable and valid tool for the assessment of depression symptoms in PSP. Such data are useful to standardize studies of depression in PSP and to quantify the effectiveness of any interventions on this disabling symptom.
Reactivity Analysis of New Multivalent Electrophilic Probes for Affinity Labeling of Carbohydrate Binding Proteins
Authors: Kamoshita Shione , Matsui Saho , Suto Nanako , Sakurai Kaori
Published: September 2021

We have designed and synthesized six different multivalent electrophiles as carbohydrate affinity labeling probes. Evaluation of the reactivity of the electrophiles against peanut agglutinin (PNA) and Ricinus communis agglutinin (RCA) showed that p‐ and m‐aryl sulfonyl fluoride are effective protein reactive groups that label carbohydrate binding lectins in a ligand‐dependent fashion at a nanomolar probe concentration. Analysis of the selectivity of affinity labeling in the presence of excess BSA as a nonspecific protein indicated that m‐arylsulfonyl fluoride is a more selective protein‐reactive group, albeit with attenuated reactivity. Further analysis showed that the labeling efficiency of the multivalent electrophilic probes can be improved by employing reaction conditions involving 25 °C instead of typically employed 4 °C. Both isomers of arylsulfonyl fluoride groups together represent promising affinity labels for target identification studies that could serve as more efficient alternatives to photoreactive groups.
Coexisting posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome and ischemic hepatopathy: A case report
Authors: Adetoye Mercy A. , Baumgartner Meredith G. , Rajkotia Kavita , Park Bumsoo
Published: September 2021

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is acute neurologic symptoms with specific radiologic findings. This unique case shows coexisting PRES with acute liver injury, which could suggest common pathophysiologic process.
Abnormal eosinophils with immature eosinophilic granules in chronic myeloid leukemia in accelerated phase
Authors: Cai Jennifer , Ji Ping , Tomassetti Sarah , Qing Xin
Published: September 2021

Abnormal eosinophils with immature eosinophilic granules are typically observed in acute myeloid leukemia with inv (16) (p13.1q22) or t (16;16) (p13.1;q22) but can also be seen in chronic myeloid leukemia without inv (16) or t (16;16).
Synergistically Interfaced Bifunctional Transition Metal Selenides for High‐Rate Hydrogen Production Via Urea Electrolysis
Authors: Desalegn Bezawit Z. , Hern Kim , Gil Seo Jeong
Published: September 2021

The realization of carbon‐neutral energy is regarded a prime challenge as the environment and energy have become two key issues facing modern society. Here, synergistically interfaced transition metal selenides are studied for hydrogen production via urea electrolysis with concurrent environmental treatment. Extremely low overpotentials of 210 mV, 250 mV, and 1.41 V vs. RHE were observed at 100 mA cm−2 for HER, OER and UOR, respectively with a 98.3 % faradaic efficiency. A notably low cell voltage of 1.6 and 1.84 V was required at 200 mA cm−2 for urea and water electrolysis, respectively along with a remarkably stable performance for 4 days. Additionally, A 1.45‐fold increase in H2 production rate was observed for urea electrolysis [26.6 μmol min−1] when compared with water electrolysis [18 μmol min−1] decreasing the power consumption by 37 %. Real human urine electrolysis was conducted with excellent performance requiring a cell voltage of only 1.9 V at 200 mA cm−2, attributed to the synergistic intermediate‐active site interaction, improved charge transfer capability, and slow surface transformation‐induced activation.
Efficacy of a College and Career Readiness Program: Bridge to Employment
Authors: Detgen Amy , Fernandez Felix , McMahon Amanda , Johnson Lisa , Dailey Caitlin Rose
Published: September 2021

An important measure of success for a college and career readiness program is the extent to which its participants achieve their higher education and career goals. We examined one such program, Bridge to Employment (BTE), to determine its influence on participants’ educational and career‐related decisions and outcomes after they graduated from high school. The BTE program works with 14‐to‐18‐year‐old students in disadvantaged communities across the globe to increase their awareness and understanding of health careers and higher education opportunities. We interviewed 23 former BTE participants, representing different countries and BTE participation time frames, to provide critical qualitative insights about their experiences, years after the program. Key recommendations for college and career readiness programs include exposing participants to a wide variety of careers, strengthening soft skills, clarifying practical steps to prepare for college and careers, and providing support for interpersonal relationships.
Theoretical Calculation into the Structures and MD Simulation of CL‐20/DNDA5 Cocrystal
Authors: Wang Shutao , Hao Yongping , Ba Shuhong , Wang Fei
Published: September 2021

For studying the cocrystal cell structure and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of CL‐20/DNDA5 (2,4‐dinitro‐2,4‐dinitropentane), cocrystal construction is predicted on ten kinds of space group of crystal cell. MD simulations are performed at the temperatures of 203, 223, 253, 273, 303, and 323 K. The results show that the cell parameters belonging to P21/C are similar to those of CL‐20/DNDA5 cocrystals which are prepared in the lab. With the decrease of temperature, the energy decreases by about 17.7 kcal mol–1 for every 1 K decrease on average. The radial distribution function shows that the main driving force for the formation of CL‐20/DNDA5 cocrystal is mainly the hydrogen bond formed by H provided by CL‐20 and O provided by DNDA5, the van der Waals force and other hydrogen bonds play an auxiliary role. The Hirshfeld surface analysis shows that the contribution of the CL‐20/DNDA5 O···H to the contact point at Hirshfeld surface is 4.5% higher than that of CL‐20 and the nitro of DNDA5 has the stronger electron donating ability. The morphology of cocrystal growth shows that both the simulated ideal crystal morphology and the single crystal prepared by the experiment belong to prismatic crystal.
The effect of orthodontic treatment on the periodontium and soft tissue esthetics in adult patients
Authors: Abdelhafez Reem S. , Talib Ahmad A. , Al‐Taani Dafi S.
Published: September 2021

Objective

Most patients seek orthodontic treatment to achieve an esthetic outcome. Orthodontic treatment has possible negative sequelae. The aim of this study is to assess these possible effects on the periodontium and tissue esthetics.

Methods

One hundred fifty‐six patients who have completed orthodontic treatment at Jordan University of Science and Technology clinics were recruited. They were divided into extraction and nonextraction subgroups. Another 155 patients never undergoing orthodontic treatment were assessed. The height of papilla, width of keratinized gingiva, gingival recession, degree of tooth display, smile line, crestal bone level, and proximal caries were assessed. Chi‐ square test was used for categorical/discrete variables while independent t‐test was used for continuous variables. The level of significance was set at (p ≤ 0.05).

Results

The mean age was 22 years with no significant difference between the groups. There was a significant difference between “ortho” and “nonortho” groups in tooth display and keratinized gingiva (p = 0.006 and <0.001, respectively). The overall crestal bone level, smile line, recession, and papilla fill did not show any significant differences (p = 0.200, 0.067, 0.120, and 0.066, respectively). The crestal bone level in the upper and lower anterior segments was significantly lower in the “ortho” treated group compared to the “nonortho” treated group (p = 0.002 and 0.005, respectively). A significant difference between “extraction” and “nonextraction” groups was in the width of keratinized gingiva (p = 0.003) and the number of teeth displayed (p < 0.001). Despite reaching statistical significance these differences are not necessarily of clinical significance.

Conclusion

Orthodontic treatment clearly affects the periodontal tissues; however, the detrimental effects appear to be minimal. Patients with history of orthodontic treatment might have lower crestal bone levels at certain sites and this should not be confused with periodontal disease.
A high gain noninverting DC–DC converter with low voltage stress for industrial applications
Authors: Ahmad Javed , Siddique Marif Daula , Sarwar Adil , Lin Chang Hua , Iqbal Atif
Published: September 2021

A noninverting DC–DC converter with high voltage gain and low voltage stress on the switches for industrial applications is proposed in this research article. The proposed converter has used a voltage multiplier cell twice in the circuit that gives the proposed converter a symmetrical configuration and provides low voltage stress across both the switches. The symmetrical configuration of the proposed converter makes it easier to select the components. The proposed converter provides a voltage gain that is more than three times of the conventional boost converter. A 200‐W hardware prototype of the proposed converter has been developed and tested under continuous conduction for static and dynamic conditions. The power loss analysis is done using PLECS software by incorporating the real parameters of switches and diodes from the datasheet. The converter performance is found to be good in open‐loop conditions and is in agreement with the theoretical analysis.
Optical section structured illumination‐based Förster resonance energy transfer imaging
Authors: Liu Zhi , Luo Zewei , Chen Hongce , Yin Ao , Sun Han , Zhuang Zhengfei , Chen Tongsheng
Published: September 2021

Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) microscopy is an important tool suitable for studying molecular interactions in living cells. Optical section structured illumination microscopy (OS‐SIM), like confocal microscopy, has about 200 nm spatial resolution. In this report, we performed quantitative 3‐cube FRET imaging in OS‐SIM mode and widefield microscopy (WF) mode, respectively, for living cells expressing FRET constructs consisting of Cerulean (C, donor) and Venus (V, acceptor). OS‐SIM images exhibited higher resolution than WF images. Four spectral crosstalk coefficients measured under OS‐SIM mode are consistent with those measured under WF mode. Similarly, the system calibration factors G and k measured under OS‐SIM mode were consistent with those measured under WF mode. The measured FRET efficiency (E) values of C32V and C17V as well as C5V constructs, standard FRET plasmids, in living Hela cells were , and , and the measured acceptor‐to‐donor concentration ratios () were , , and , consistent with the reported values. Collectively, our data demonstrates that OS‐SIM can be integrated into FRET microscopy to build an OS‐SIM‐FRET with confocal microscopy‐like resolution.
Toxic plants—Detection of colchicine in a fast systematic clinical toxicology screening using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Vollmer Aline C. , Wagmann Lea , Meyer Markus R.
Published: September 2021

Colchicum autumnale, which can be mistaken for Allium ursinum, contains the alkaloid colchicine potentially leading to life‐threatening up to fatal intoxications. We report two cases of acute intoxications with unexplained circumstances. Using the authors' systematic screening approaches, colchicine could be detected in blood plasma and urine samples using liquid chromatography coupled to linear ion trap mass spectrometry (LC‐ITMSn) and high‐resolution tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐HRMS/MS). Metabolites of colchicine could be identified in urine for confirmation of screening results. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) analysis was also conducted, but colchicine could not be detected. Furthermore, colchicine concentration was estimated via LC‐HRMS/MS in plasma samples. Results of the systematic screening indicated the ingestion of colchicine from both subjects. In both cases, the parent compound was detected in blood plasma and urine using the LC‐HRMS/MS and LC‐ITMSn system. An O‐demethylation metabolite was identified in urine samples of both subjects using LC‐HRMS/MS; the N‐deacetylation product was also found in urine samples of both cases via LC‐HRMS/MS and LC‐ITMSn. The use of LC‐ITMSn resulted only in the detection of the O‐demethylation product in case 2. Plasma concentrations were estimated at 2.5 ng/ml and 4.7 ng/ml for cases 1 and 2, respectively. We demonstrated the detection of this highly toxic alkaloid in blood plasma and urine using a time‐saving and reliable clinical systematic screening. Furthermore, we identified metabolites of colchicine being rarely discussed in literature, which can be used as additional screening targets.
Genetic interaction of Pax3 mutation and canonical Wnt signaling modulates neural tube defects and neural crest abnormalities
Authors: Palmer Alexandra J. , Savery Dawn , Massa Valentina , Copp Andrew J. , Greene Nicholas D. E.
Published: September 2021

Mouse models provide opportunities to investigate genetic interactions that cause or modify the frequency of neural tube defects (NTDs). Mutation of the PAX3 transcription factor prevents neural tube closure, leading to cranial and spinal NTDs whose frequency is responsive to folate status. Canonical Wnt signalling is implicated both in regulation of Pax3 expression and as a target of PAX3. This study investigated potential interactions of Pax3 mutation and canonical Wnt signalling using conditional gain‐ and loss‐of‐function models of β‐catenin. We found an additive effect of β‐catenin gain of function and Pax3 loss of function on NTDs and neural crest defects. β‐catenin gain of function in the Pax3 expression domain led to significantly increased frequency of cranial but not spinal NTDs in embryos that are heterozygous for Pax3 mutation, while both cranial and spinal neural tube closure were exacerbated in Pax3 homozygotes. Similarly, deficits of migrating neural crest cells were exacerbated by β‐catenin gain of function, with almost complete ablation of spinal neural crest cells and derivatives in Pax3 homozygous mutants. Pax3 expression was not affected by β‐catenin gain of function, while we confirmed that loss of function led to reduced Pax3 transcription. In contrast to gain of function, β‐catenin knockout in the Pax3 expression domain lowered the frequency of cranial NTDs in Pax3 null embryos. However, loss of function of β‐catenin and Pax3 resulted in spinal NTDs, suggesting differential regulation of cranial and spinal neural tube closure. In summary, β‐catenin function modulates the frequency of PAX3‐related NTDs in the mouse.
Micro‐stromatolitic laminations and the origins of engraved, oxalate‐rich accretions from Australian rock art shelters
Authors: Green Helen , Gleadow Andrew , Finch Damien , Myers Cecilia , McGovern Jenna
Published: September 2021

Distinctive, dark‐coloured, glaze‐like mineral accretions are common on low‐angle surfaces in sandstone rock shelters in the Kimberley region of north‐western Australia, where they provide an attractive medium for the production of deep engravings, and occasionally, are associated with painted rock art. These accretions form within the shelter dripline and are similar to those reported from other sites around the world, where they have been used for radiocarbon dating of associated rock art. This study uses extensive field observations and mineralogical analysis of 77 such oxalate‐rich accretions collected at 41 different sites across a wide area of the north Kimberley region. The mineralogy of these accretions is dominated by well‐crystallised calcium oxalate and sulphate minerals, most commonly whewellite and gypsum, with significant occurrences of phosphates in some samples. The accretions are typically several millimetres thick and characterised by distinctive internal laminations that show regular stacked undulations, giving a stromatolitic appearance under the microscope. Together with other apparently microbial features observed under the scanning electron microscope, these features provide strong support for a microbiological origin for these oxalate‐rich accretions. The well‐crystallised nature of the oxalates and the preservation of fine laminar features within the accretions supports their use for radiocarbon dating.
The impact of dementia daycare service cessation due to COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Wong Bel Pui‐sze , Kwok Timothy Chi‐yui , Chui Kenny Chi‐man , Cheng Tobi Sum‐to , Ho Florence Kwai‐ying , Woo Jean
Published: September 2021

Objectives

This study aimed at revealing the caregiving challenges of the caregivers of people with dementia (PwD) during the COVID‐19 pandemic when daycare service was stopped as an infection control measure, and discussed ways to help PwD and their family caregivers to maintain their well‐being in the era of the pandemic.

Methods

Between April and May 2020, a cross‐sectional survey was conducted in 152 family caregivers of PwD who were clients of daycare service prior to the pandemic. The survey examined caregivers' stress and challenges faced during daycare service cessation, their perceived needs for continuation of daycare service, and observed changes in functional status of PwD. Regression analyses were performed to explore the associated factors of caregiving stress and preference for continuation of daycare service.

Results

Family caregivers of PwD experienced greater caregiving stress after cessation of daycare service. Infection was their main challenge in caregiving, and their physical and emotional health was adversely affected by the longer time commitment with PwD under the stay‐home policy. Older age of caregivers, greater emotional and communication problems of PwD, and more time spent with PwD were associated with greater caregiving stress. More than one‐third of the participants preferred the continuation of daycare service during the pandemic.

Conclusions

Policy makers should consider the well‐being of PwD and their caregivers when planning infection control measures. Daycare service with enhanced infection controlled measures should remain available to PwD during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Scorpio‐Ligand: Synthesis of Biphenyl‐Dihydroazepine Phosphoramidite Ligands for Asymmetric Hydrogenation
Authors: Auras Stefanie , Trapp Oliver
Published: September 2021

A novel dihydroazepine‐bridged BIPHEP phosphoramidite ligand with an amino acid moiety in the backbone was synthesized and evaluated in the Rh‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation. The scorpion tail‐like amino acid backbone is capable of hydrogen bond formation and able to shift the rotamer composition of the biphenyl axis with the two scissor‐like arms. Pivaloyl‐l‐valine was studied as chiral selector unit and compared with pivaloylglycine as the achiral reference substance. The enantiomerization barrier of the pivaloylglycine‐modified biphenylamide was determined to be ΔG≠=110 kJ/mol. In the case of pivaloyl‐l‐valine, the (Sax) isomer is thermodynamically favored. Due to the relatively high barrier, the ligand is atropisomeric at room temperature and allows the preparative separation of the stereoisomers. The obtained phosphoramidite ligands were separated by chiral HPLC. For the first eluting rotamer, Rh complex ([Rh(cod)(L)2]BF4) was generated in situ and examined in the enantioselective hydrogenation of 2‐acetamidoacrylate and methyl 2‐acetamido‐3‐phenylacrylate, achieving enantiomeric excesses of up to 94 %.
The COVID‐19 pandemic in Australia: Public health responses, opportunities and challenges
Authors: Van Nguyen Huy , Lan Nguyen Hoa , Thi Minh Dao An , Van Nguyen Tien , The Nguyen Phuong , Mai Le Phuong , Duy Vu Kien , Thi Ngoc Tran Anh , Kim Dao Phuong , Thi Nguyen Cham , Debattista Joseph
Published: September 2021

In responding to the COVID‐19 pandemic, each country is presented with both opportunities and challenges, some unique and some shared with the global community. It is important to not only recognize, but to embrace them as drivers of the public to the current pandemic success. In this commentary, we discuss the opportunities and challenges that may affect ongoing public health programming in Australia within the current context of epidemiology. COVID‐19 within Australia has to date been effectively suppressed through the implementation of nationally coordinated, in which the state delivered public policy, guidelines and practice, and successful establishment of a comprehensive testing, contact tracing, patient isolation and contact quarantine regime combined with national and state social distancing, hygiene etiquette and movement restrictions. However, despite its success to date great challenges lay ahead for future public health policy with the threat of a second wave, or more likely, multiple smaller outbreaks across various population centres. Therefore, policies that aim to balance the twin socioeconomic and health impacts are crucial. The experience of Australia in managing its COVID‐19 response can provide a case study for other countries to reshape or adapt their policies and actions in the context of emerging global health crises.
Toddler word learning is robust to changes in emotional context
Authors: Ogren Marissa , Sandhofer Catherine M.
Published: September 2021

Word learning is a crucial aspect of early social and cognitive development, and previous research indicates that children's word learning is influenced by the context in which the word is spoken. However, the role of emotions as contextual cues to word learning remains less clear. This study investigated word learning among 2.5‐year‐old children in angry, happy, sad, and variable emotional contexts. Fifty‐six children (30 female; mean age = 2.49 years) participated in a novel noun generalization task in which children observed an experimenter labelling objects in either a consistently angry, consistently happy, consistently sad, or variable (one exemplar per emotion) context. The children were then asked to identify the label–object association. The results revealed that children's performance was above chance levels for all four conditions (all t's > 3.68, all p's < .01), but performance did not significantly differ by condition (F[3,52] = 0.51, p = .677). These results provide valuable information regarding potential boundaries for when contextual information may versus may not influence children's word learning.
In vivo evaluation of the levator ani muscle in primiparous women using diffusion tensor imaging and fiber tractography
Authors: Cui Can , Zhao Yujiao , Cui Dawei , Li Na , Pan Jiangfeng , Shen Wen
Published: September 2021

Objective

To characterize the levator ani muscle (LAM) injury after first vaginal delivery and investigate the clinical application of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and fiber tractography in evaluating the LAM.

Methods

Fifty‐eight primiparous women at 6 weeks after vaginal delivery and 27 nulliparous women as controls underwent T2‐weighted sequence and DTI sequence of the pelvic floor. A LAM scoring system was used to characterize the morphological changes. Fiber tractography of each major subdivision of LAM was performed, followed by assessment of the quality of fiber tracking. Fractional anisotropy (FA), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), fiber volume, and length were calculated.

Results

Puborectalis and iliococcygeus injuries were observed in 30/58 (51.7%) and 10/58 (17.2%) primiparae, respectively. No LAM defects were identified in the control group. For the puborectalis, the FA values were lower (P = 0.010) and ADC values were higher (P = 0.024) in the primiparous group than in the control group. For the iliococcygeus, the fiber volume values were lower in the primiparous group than in the control group (P = 0.004).

Conclusion

Vaginal delivery can result in LAM injury at the puborectalis. DTI parameters can assist in the quantitative diagnosis of the LAM injury.