bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-termed changes in quantitative ultrasound estimated bone density among young men in an 18-weeks follow-up during their basic training for the Swiss Armed Forces
Authors: Strässle Michael , Grossmann Jonas , Eppenberger Patrick , Faas Alexander , Jerkovic Ivanka , Floris Joël , Öhrström Lena , Akgül Gülfirde , Aldakak Lafi , Rühli Frank , Bender Nicole , Staub Kaspar
Published: April 2023

Background

Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS) methods have been widely used to assess estimated bone density. This study aimed to assess changes in estimated bone density in association with changes in body composition, physical activity, and anthropometry.

Methods

We examined changes in anthropometry, body composition, and physical activity associated with changes in estimated bone mineral density (measured using quantitative ultrasound with a heel ultrasound device indicating broadband ultrasound attenuation BUA and speed of sound SOS) in a follow-up sample of n = 73 young men at the beginning and again 18 weeks later at the end of basic military training.

Results

At the end of the basic training, the subjects were on average significantly heavier (+1.0%), slightly taller (+0.5%) and had a higher fat mass (+6.6%) and grip strength (+8.6%). A significant decrease in mean physical activity (−49.5%) and mean estimated bone density calculated with BUA (−7.5%) was observed in the paired t-test. The results of the multivariable linear regressions (backward selection) show that changes in skeletal muscle mass (delta = 2nd measurement minus 1st measurement) have negative and body weight (delta) have positive association with the speed of sound SOS (delta), while fat mass (delta) and physical activity (delta) had the strongest negative associations with estimated bone mineral density (delta). In particular, we found a negative association between fat mass (delta) and estimated bone mineral density (delta, estimated with BUA).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that estimated bone density from the calcaneus can change within a few months even in young and mostly healthy individuals, depending upon physical activity levels and other co-factors. Further studies including other troop types as control groups as well as on women should follow in order to investigate this public health relevant topic in more depth. To what extent the estimated bone density measurement with quantitative ultrasound is clinically relevant needs to be investigated in further studies.
A Survey on Blockchain-Based Supply Chain Management in Agriculture
Authors: K Manikantha , Nataraj Abhay , Affan Mohammed , D’Souza Calden Michael , Kannati Charan
Published: April 2023

India is one of the fifth largest economies in the world by nominal GDP with 70 per cent of the rural households still depending on agriculture as their primary source of livelihood. India is responsible for 7.39 per cent of total world agricultural production. But the agricultural supply chain used in India is inefficient and caters less to the producer. Farmers who are the producers get very less profit from selling their produce. It is estimated that about 80 percent of the profits are secured by the middlemen who have significant control over the agriculture trade in the country. The lack of communication between different stages in the chain and data transparency is also one of the major reasons why the current supply chain in India is flawed. Proper communication is essential in any system to avoid the spread of any misinformation and at each stage in the supply chain sensors are required to share data with the users so that information is collected and made available to everyone concerned with the particular transaction of goods. The combination of blockchain and IoT in the agricultural sector can provide a better supply chain system from the ground up which addresses communication and transparency issues suffered by the latter systems.
Seed predation and its relationship with the recruitment of seedlings of woody species in central Chile
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Facultad de Agronomía e Ingeniería Forestal, Correa-Solís Román María José
Published: April 2023

La depredación de semillas puede reducir la cantidad y diversidad de especies que quedan disponibles para germinar y de esta manera afectar la regeneración. Además, la frecuencia y abundancia de depredadores de semillas y plántulas normalmente es mayor en parches de vegetación con mayor biomasa leñosa. Por lo tanto, la depredación de semillas y plántulas puede ser también mayor en esos parches de vegetación. Examinamos estas hipótesis a través de experimentos en donde evaluamos el efecto de la exclusión de depredadores de semillas y de especies leñosas en distintos tipos de parche de vegetación de la región tipo mediterránea de Chile. Nuestros resultados mostraron que depredación de semillas ocurre principalmente bajo los parches de vegetación arbórea y en todas localidades estudiadas, indicando que es un fenómeno bastante generalizado en la zona central de Chile. A pesar de la existencia de depredación de semillas y probablemente también de plántulas, la herbivoría no sería suficientemente fuerte para ser determinante en los niveles de reclutamiento de plántulas. En relación con la aplicabilidad de los resultados, aparentemente no se requiere protección de herbívoros cuando se realizan siembras o si la restauración se basa en regeneración natural.
Governança do habitat de inovação – contratos da inovação
Authors: Da Silva Gilson José , Amaral Creusa Sayuri Tahara
Published: April 2023

Os habitats de inovação buscam suprir demandas e potencializar a inovação e o empreendedorismo. Suas conexões com um ecossistema favorecem a realização de networking entre os seus diferentes atores do processo, tornando evidente a importância da governança do habitat de inovação, colocando-a como um dos principais fatores para a sua consolidação. Assim, é importante avaliar a governança dos habitats de inovação, pois ela define os meios e processos que são utilizados para produzir resultados eficazes. Um dos aspectos importantes desta governança é a existência de contratos estabelecidos entre os diferentes atores, como os contratos de parcerias, transferência de tecnologia, propriedade intelectual e convênios. Dentre os objetivos desses contratos está a viabilização das atividades de pesquisa e o desenvolvimento na área de inovação científica e tecnológica. Desse modo, propõe-se neste estudo identificar os principais componentes e mecanismos relevantes para o estabelecimento de contratos da inovação, com especial foco para o desenvolvimento de produtos biotecnológicos. A proposta do trabalho tem como base principal a revisão da literatura, para a caracterização da inovação, e o levantamento das leis que compõem o fomento de inovação e da biotecnologia no país, além dos tipos de contratos no processo de inovação. À vista disso, como resultado, temos o levantamento dos contratos, que poderá ser utilizado como um guia para o habitat de inovação, que, juntamente com as diretrizes do Marco Legal de Inovação, possa fortalecer as iniciativas de parcerias e o uso das melhores práticas descritas na literatura, contribuindo para o desenvolvimento de pesquisas biotecnológicas.
Morphological and Distribution Pattern of Calcifications on Full Field Digital Mammography versus Digital Breast Tomosynthesis and Comparison of Diagnostic Abilities of the Two Modalities: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Singh Neha , Marak James , Joshi Pranjali , Singh Deepak Kumar
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Microcalcification (MC) is an effective and sometimes the only indicator of breast cancer. Early detection and characterisation of malignant MC can facilitate early diagnosis and timely treatment of breast cancer. However, due to the small size and low contrast as compared to the background parenchyma, it is difficult and time-consuming for radiologists to accurately evaluate MC. Aim: To compare the diagnostic abilities of Full Field Digital Mammography (FFDM) and Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) in the detection and characterisation of breast calcifications. Materials and Methods: This retrospective descriptive study was conducted in the year 2022 at the breast imaging unit of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India and data of patients who had undergone FFDM and DBT between March 2019- September 2020 was collected. Mammograms of 702 women with 1217 breasts were evaluated and MC was detected in 622 breasts. Based on the morphology and distribution pattern, Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) assessment Category was assigned from 2 to 5. Cases with BI-RADS 2 and 3 were followed-up by repeat Mammograms at 6-month to 1-year intervals. Cases with BI-RADS 4 and 5 were biopsied under stereotactic or ultrasound guidance. Histopathology findings and the stability of the calcifications on sequential mammograms were considered the gold standard for final BI-RADS categorisation. The Chi-square test was applied for the comparison of FFDM and DBT. Results: Typically benign morphology MC was noted in 508 (81.67%) of breasts on FFDM and 505 (80.67%) on DBT. Suspicious morphology MC was noted in 114 (18.33%) of breasts on FFDM and 121 (19.33%) on DBT. Vascular calcification was the most common benign MC seen in 233 cases (37.45%) on FFDM and 244 cases (38.9%) on DBT. Similarly, fine pleomorphic was the most common suspicious morphology MC on FFDM and DBT both seen in 47 cases (7.5%) and 44 cases (7.02%), respectively. The most common distribution pattern was diffuse seen in 582 cases (93.56%) on FFDM and 583 cases (93.13%) on DBT, respectively. No significant difference was observed (p=0.283) in the rate of detection or characterisation of MC by FFDM or DBT. The sensitivity of both modalities were almost similar (97.7% and 97.9%) without any significant difference (p=0.278). Similarly, there was no difference in the specificity (94.9% and 94.4%, respectively, p=0.289). Conclusion: The performance of FFDM and DBT for the detection and characterisation of MC is not significantly different.
Effectiveness of Fitness Testing for Assessment of Male Basketball Athletes- A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Aggarwal Amita , Wani Chaitanyaa , Jaiswal Yash
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Basketball players should have physical characteristics which include sports-specific skills and demands. Activities including sprinting, and jumping require abilities with speed, power, strength, and agility. These have to be evaluated using fitness tests which help in having a good impact on the game. Assessment of their performance will be helpful for designing and monitoring the efficacy of basketball athletes’ training regimes. Aim: To assess the body composition and fitness tests specific to cardio-respiratory fitness, upper and lower limb strength, endurance, flexibility and agility in 20-29 years male basketball players. Materials and Methods: It was an observational crosssectional study which was conducted on 30 male basketball players in Dr. DY Patil Medical College, Pune, from June 2017 to Dec 2017. Participants were assessed for specific fitness tests conducted in two days. Agility, upper extremity strength, lower extremity endurance including flexibility, was tested on the first day, followed by body composition, cardio-respiratory fitness, upper extremity endurance and lower extremity strength on another day. Results: The mean age of the male basketball players was 21.8 years. The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) was 22.53 Kg/m2 . It showed a poor (35.58±4.80) cardio-respiratory fitness using the Beep Test. For the upper limb, there was poor flexibility (13.01±3.45). However, the lower limb endurance (60.33±19.80) and agility (12.08±0.66) showed excellent results. Conclusion: The study concluded that lower extremity fitness was better than upper extremity in male basketball players.
The Strategy for the Effectiveness of Diving Ecotourism Management in the Conservation Area of the Dampier Strait Waters, Raja Ampat
Authors: Kaber Yuanike , Yulianda Fredinan , Bengen Dietriech G. , Dahuri Rokhmin , Souhoka Jemmy
Published: April 2023

Study of ecological carrying capacity had been done to design the management strategy of the effective utilization of ecotourism diving spots in Raja Ampat. The research was conducted at the utilization zones of the Dampier Strait marine protected area, Raja Ampat between November 2016 and May 2017. The data of this research consist of primary data and secondary data. The secondary data collected and compiled from the scientific journal, report, and the other source which is related with the objectives of this research. Data collection of the coral reef ecosystems was collected at 10 diving spots by using LIT (Line Intercept Transect) and the data of coral fish was collected by using UVC (Underwater Visual Census). The secondary data was compiled from various sources. The result of the suitability matrix of marine ecotourism for diving category analysis found that these areas were under the category of very suitable area (S1) i.e Five Rock, Melissa Garden, Lolosi Reef and Cape Kri. The areas which are under category of suitable (S2) were found in the Friwen Bonda, the Urun Island, the Wai Island, the Dayan Island, and the Cape of Raspapir and the Yensawai Coast. The carrying capacity of divers for diving ecotourism were found to be 1 834 divers/day. The analyzed number of divers for the utilization of the carrying capacity area has shown 183 divers/day, and 38 559 divers/year. The allocation for the utilization of the diving ecotourism area is proposed 50:50 for foreign tourists and domestic tourists. The total local revenue from the entrance fee to enter the Dampier Strait waters conservation area per day from foreign tourists is Rp917 000 000 whereas from the domestic tourists Rp458 500 000. The strategy of the effectiveness of dive spots utilizes marine ecotourism can be done by arranged distribution of divers according to the certification records.
Hematological Indices of Experimental Rats Fed with Rat Chow Fortified with Processed Breadfruits
Authors: Ezeigwe Obiajulu Christian , Okwuenu Gift Nonso , Ani Onuabuchi Nnenna
Published: April 2023

Background: The abundance of nutrients, vitamins, and fiber in breadfruit has been documented in many literature studies that can hardly be exhausted and are consumed majorly by the Igbos and other southern parts of Nigeria to ameliorate hunger.

Aim: This study however was aimed at determining the effect of feeds fortified with grilled, preboiled, and cooked breadfruit on hematological indices of wistar rats.

Methods: Hematological parameters were determined using an automated hematology analyzer (Mindray-BC-5300). The parameters analyzed include Hemoglobin (HGB), Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Red Blood Cells (RBC), Platelets (PLT), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC), White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils (NEUT), Lymphocytes (LYMPH), Monocytes (MON), Eosinophils (EOS) and Basophils (BAS).

Results: The result from the experiment indicated that all fortified groups showed no significant increase or decrease (p>0.05) in their HGB, PCV, RBC, PLT, MCV, MCH and MCHC when compared with their respective controls. The white blood cell, neutrophil and eosinophil concentrations of the experimental rats significantly increased (p<0.05) compared with the normal control group. A significant decrease (p<0.05) was observed in the lymphocyte and basophil concentration. The monocyte levels of the experimental rats showed a non-significant increase or decrease (p>0.05) in all the groups with respect to the normal control.

Conclusion: It may however be safe to infer that fortification of feed with breadfruit has no negative effect on the physiological status of the experimental animals as all the hematological parameters remained within range.
Circulation of Rotavirus Genotypes and their Distribution among Vaccinated and Non-vaccinated Children in Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Balarabe-Musa Binta
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Nigeria had planned to introduce the rotavirus vaccine in the National Immunisation Programme in 2014 but this has yet to be done. Nigeria has the continent’s highest mortality due to diarrhoeal diseases with little information on specific prevalent genotypes. The main objectives of the study were to identify the predominant rotavirus genotypes and to examine the effects of existing local vaccination programmes on prevailing rotavirus genotypes and on preventing rotavirus diarrhoea.

Methodology: A one-year prospective descriptive study of children under 5 with acute diarrhoea was conducted from September 2012 to August 2013. Children with acute diarrhoea attending three government hospitals and one private hospital were recruited. Children without diarrhoea were also recruited as a control group. Rotavirus ELISA and RNA extraction were done with commercially available kits and positive samples were subjected to RT-PCR and electrophoresis to determine VP7 (G) and VP4 (P) genotypes.

Results: Stool samples were collected from 1240 (93.3%) participants, of whom 957 (77.0%) were ambulatory, 123 (9.9%) hospitalised and 160 (12.8%) controls without diarrhoea. Rotavirus-ELISA was positive among 123 (11.4%) children with diarrhoea. The predominant VP7 genotypes were G2 (n=33, 26.4%) followed by G9 (n=24, 19.2). The main VP4 (P) genotypes included P [4] (n=45, 36.0%) followed by P [6] (n=40, 32.0%). The predominant genotype combinations found were G2 P [4] (n=21, 16.8%), G3 P [6] and G1 P [6] (each n=16, 12.8%), and G12 P [8] (n=15, 12.0%). Very few mixed infections were found in only one government hospital 4 (6.4%). Among 94 unvaccinated children with rotavirus isolates that were genotyped, G2 P [4] (n=19, 20.2%) and G1 P [6] (n=16, 17.0%) were predominant. Among 12 vaccinated children, 2 isolates each (16.6%) were found of G3 P [6], G9 P [4], G12 P [8] and G2 P [NT] with no G1 isolates.

Conclusion: The emergence of new genotypes such as G 12 P [8] found in this study emphasizes the need for continued prospective monitoring of rotavirus at the molecular level to detect new threats to vaccine programmes in future.
Fisheries and Biology of Otolithes ruber (Bloch & Schneider, 1801) Catch of Small-scale Fisherfolk in San Miguel Bay, Philippines
Authors: Bergonio Emerson L.
Published: April 2023

Otolithesruber (Bloch & Schneider, 1801) is one of the major fish catches in San Miguel Bay and its processing is a seasonal livelihood among coastal villages. This study documented and described the O. ruber catch of small-scale fisherfolks around the Bay through on-board survey and observation. Fishing trips from 10 September to 19 November 2018 demonstrated that fisherfolks used bottom-set gill nets and commonly explored the middle to the mouth of the Bay off Mercedes and Siruma to catch O. ruber and other species. The analysis of 434 composite fish samples bought from the fishing trips identified 222 female and 212 male fish individuals with TL of 19.14 + 0.11 cm and body weight of 70.76 + 1.46 g. The majority were already mature to spawning stages and gonads had no apparent lesions. The population’s reproductive capacity, based on the presence of numerous spermatocytes and oocytes, was presumed to be realized, but this may fail due to uncontrolled illegal fishing.
PENERAPAN METODE CERAMAH DAN TANYA JAWAB DALAM PROSES PEMBELAJARAN DARING DI SD KRISTEN DI MEDAN
Authors: Pabesak Risma Rombe , Santoso Magdalena Pranata
Published: April 2023

Perubahan sistem pembelajaran dari pembelajaran tatap muka menjadi pembelajaran daring berdampak pada pemilihan metode pembelajaran yang digunakan oleh guru. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan metode ceramah dan tanya jawab untuk murid kelas 1 dan kelas 2 di sebuah Sekolah Dasar Kristen di Medan. Observasi dan wawancara diterapkan untuk mengumpulkan data. Tahap analisis meliputi reduksi, penyajian, interpretasi dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil menunjukkan penggunaan metode ceramah dan tanya jawab sangat diperlukan dalam proses pembelajaran daring dengan memperhatikan tahap perkembangan murid. Kombinasi metode ceramah dan tanya jawab perlu diterapkan untuk men­ciptakan interaksi di kelas. Penerapan gerak-gerik dalam mengajar sangat efektif untuk menarik murid yang berada dalam tahap operasional konkret. Tuhan Yesus juga menggunakan kombinasi metode ceramah dan tanya jawab dalam pengajaran-Nya untuk men­ceritakan kebenaran serta berinteraksi dengan murid-Nya. Metode ceramah dengan pendekatan bercerita dapat digunakan untuk meng­integrasikan iman Kristiani agar murid memiliki karakter seperti Kristus.
CHRISTIAN PHILOSOPHICAL REFLECTION ON REBIRTH: BRING THIS DISCUSSION INTO OUR CLASSROOM
Authors: Anantawikrama Ezra , Soegiarto Samuel
Published: April 2023

There are only three major competing theories regarding life after death. Atheism holds the theory that life ends at one’s death. Another theory is the reincarnation view held by most people on this planet. Rebirth is often grouped as part of the reincarnation view. The last theory, held by Judeo-Christian and Islam religions, is the resurrection, often called the heaven and hell view. Proponents of each theory attack other theories, and debates have become common in social media, often confusing students. There is a significant need for Christian educators to equip themselves before preparing students to learn comparative religions. Teachers must be well-versed in answering objections to the Christian faith. This paper helps teachers under­stand the reincarnation theory, emphasizing the rebirth view and showing why the theory is attractive. It then gives philosophical res­ponses based on the Christian worldview. The paper concludes with two short pieces of advice for Christian educators.
Risk of Death in Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19 vs Seasonal Influenza in Fall-Winter 2022-2023
Authors: Xie Yan , Choi Taeyoung , Al-Aly Ziyad
Published: April 2023

This study uses data from the US Department of Veterans Affairs to assess whether SARS-CoV-2 remains associated with higher risk of death compared with seasonal influenza in fall-winter 2022-2023.
Association of Loneliness With the Incidence of Disability in Older Adults With Hearing Impairment in Japan
Authors: Tomida Kouki , Lee Sangyoon , Makino Keitaro , Katayama Osamu , Harada Kenji , Morikawa Masanori , Yamaguchi Ryo , Nishijima Chiharu , Fujii Kazuya , Misu Yuka , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: April 2023

Importance

Loneliness is suggested to negatively affect physical and mental health and influence the development of disability; however, a consensus on the relationship between loneliness and disability has not been reached. Age-related hearing impairment worsens the daily-life activities of older adults, and the association between loneliness and the incidence of disability may be influenced by hearing impairment.

Objective

To examine the association between loneliness and the incidence of disability among older adults stratified by hearing impairment.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective observational cohort study included 5563 community-dwelling adults 65 years or older who participated in functional health examinations in Tokai City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, between September 2017 and June 2018. Data analysis was conducted from August 2022 to February 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to examine the association between loneliness and the incidence of disability stratified by hearing impairment.

Results

Among the 4739 participants who met the inclusion criteria (mean [SD] age, 73.8 [5.5] years; 2622 [55.3%] female), 3792 (80.0%) were without hearing impairment and 947 (20.0%) were with hearing impairment. Of those who reported experiencing loneliness, 1215 (32.0%) were without hearing impairment, and 441 (46.6%) were with hearing impairment. After 2 years, the number of individuals with disabilities was 172 (4.5%) without hearing impairment and 79 (8.3%) with hearing impairment. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis showed no statistically significant association between loneliness and the incidence of disability in a model adjusted for potential confounding factors among community-dwelling older adults without hearing impairment (hazard ratio, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.80-1.52). Among community-dwelling older adults with hearing impairment, a model adjusted for potential confounding factors showed a statistically significant association between loneliness and the incidence of disability (hazard ratio, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.04-2.81).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study found that the association between loneliness and the incidence of disability was moderated by the presence or absence of hearing impairment. Hearing impairment is the most common symptom of geriatric syndromes, showing that among the various risk factors, loneliness may require special attention in the prevention of disability in people with hearing impairment.
Targeting mitochondrial energetics reverses panobinostat‐ and marizomib‐induced resistance in pediatric and adult high‐grade gliomas
Authors: Jane Esther P. , Reslink Matthew C. , Gatesman Taylor A. , Halbert Matthew E. , Miller Tracy A. , Golbourn Brian J. , Casillo Stephanie M. , Mullett Steven J. , Wendell Stacy G. , Obodo Udochukwu , Mohanakrishnan Dinesh , Dange Riya , Michealraj Antony , Brenner Charles , Agnihotri Sameer , Premkumar Daniel R. , Pollack Ian F.
Published: April 2023

In previous studies, we demonstrated that panobinostat, a histone deacetylase inhibitor, and bortezomib, a proteasomal inhibitor, displayed synergistic therapeutic activity against pediatric and adult high‐grade gliomas. Despite the remarkable initial response to this combination, resistance emerged. Here, in this study, we aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the anticancer effects of panobinostat and marizomib, a brain‐penetrant proteasomal inhibitor, and the potential for exploitable vulnerabilities associated with acquired resistance. RNA sequencing followed by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was employed to compare the molecular signatures enriched in resistant compared with drug‐naïve cells. The levels of adenosine 5′‐triphosphate (ATP), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)+ content, hexokinase activity, and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle metabolites required for oxidative phosphorylation to meet their bioenergetic needs were analyzed. Here, we report that panobinostat and marizomib significantly depleted ATP and NAD+ content, increased mitochondrial permeability and reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted apoptosis in pediatric and adult glioma cell lines at initial treatment. However, resistant cells exhibited increased levels of TCA cycle metabolites, which required for oxidative phosphorylation to meet their bioenergetic needs. Therefore, we targeted glycolysis and the electron transport chain (ETC) with small molecule inhibitors, which displayed substantial efficacy, suggesting that resistant cell survival is dependent on glycolytic and ETC complexes. To verify these observations in vivo, lonidamine, an inhibitor of glycolysis and mitochondrial function, was chosen. We produced two diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) models, and lonidamine treatment significantly increased median survival in both models, with particularly dramatic effects in panobinostat‐ and marizomib‐resistant cells. These data provide new insights into mechanisms of treatment resistance in gliomas.
Neuron‐Inspired Self‐Powered Hydrogels with Excellent Adhesion, Recyclability and Dual‐Mode Output for Multifunctional Ionic Skin
Authors: Wu Ke , Cui Yanyu , Song Yaping , Ma Zhiyan , Wang Juan , Li Juan , Fei Teng , Zhang Tong
Published: April 2023

Hydrogels are promising materials for electronic skin due to their flexibility and modifiability. Reported hydrogel electronic skins can recognize stimulations and output signals, but the single output signal and the requirement of external power source limit their further applications. In this study, inspired by the neuron system, the self‐powered neuron system‐like hydrogels based on gelatin, water/glycerin and ionic liquid modified metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are prepared. The optimized hydrogel exhibits excellent adhesion (40 kPa), stretchability (0%–100%), water retention (>92% at 0% relative humidity (RH) atmosphere), ionic conductivity (>10−3 S m−1) and stability (>30 days). Besides, the neuron system‐like hydrogels are highly sensitive to pressure (0—10 N) and humidity (0%–75% RH) with dual‐modal output, without external power source. Finally, the optimized hydrogel ionic skin is applied in human motion detection, energy harvesting, and low humidity sensing. This study provides a preliminary exploration of self‐powered ionic skin for multi‐application scenarios.
Glucose‐Responsive Antioxidant Hydrogel Accelerates Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Chen Fang , Qin Jianghui , Wu Pingli , Gao Wenshan , Sun Guoming
Published: April 2023

Diabetic complications can be ameliorated by inhibiting excessive oxidative stress with antioxidants. To enhance therapeutic intervention, it is crucial to develop intelligent scaffolds for efficient delivery of antioxidants to diabetic wounds. This study introduces reversible boronic bonds to create an intelligent antioxidant hydrogel scaffold. This study modifies gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) with 4‐carboxyphenyboronic acid (CPBA) to synthesize a derivative of GelMA (GelMA‐CPBA), and then photo cross‐links GelMA‐CPBA with (−)‐epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) to form GelMA‐CPBA/EGCG (GMPE) hydrogel. The GMPE hydrogel responds to changes in glucose levels, and more EGCG is released as glucose level increases due to the dissociation of boronic ester bonds. The GMPE hydrogel shows good biocompatibility and biodegradability, and its mechanical property is similar to that of the skin tissue. Both in vitro and in vivo results demonstrate that the GMPE hydrogel scaffolds effectively eliminate reactive oxygen species (ROS), reduce the inflammation, and promote angiogenesis, thereby improve collagen deposition and tissue remodeling during diabetic wound healing. This strategy offers new insight into glucose‐responsive scaffolds, and this responsive antioxidan hydrogel scaffold holds great potential for the treatment of chronic diabetic wounds.
Recent Advances in Integrating 1D Nanomaterials into Chemiresistive Gas Sensor Devices
Authors: Lin Jiancheng , Kilani Mohamed , Mao Guangzhao
Published: April 2023

There is rapid growth in the global gas sensor market driven by new regulations for industrial emission control and residential environments and increasing demand for portable devices. Nanosensors promise to be the next generation gas sensors for the direct detection of chemical species due to their ultrahigh sensitivity, fast response, ultralow weight, and low power consumption. However, transitioning nanosensors from basic research or prototype projects to commercial products encounters two major technical challenges: difficulty in scale up and inability to demonstrate real‐world use in changing humidity and temperature conditions. The advances in addressing these two technical challenges in recent literature are surveyed. The most common 1D nanomaterials in R&D for gas sensing, metal oxides, and carbon nanotubes, as well as less common metal nanowires and psudo‐1D crystals made from charge‐transfer complexes (CTCs) are included. This review delves into the specifics of each of these 1D nanomaterials for gas sensing applications, their synthesis and deposition, sensing performance, and commercial development in the last 5 years. It highlights the scalability of one‐step electrodeposition of CTC nanowires on prefabricated electrodes, at room temperature, and from solution in making gas nanosensors.
Heterogeneous Integration of Freestanding Bilayer Oxide Membrane for Multiferroicity
Authors: Kang Kyeong Tae , Corey Zachary J , Hwang Jaejin , Sharma Yogesh , Paudel Binod , Roy Pinku , Collins Liam , Wang Xueijing , Lee Joon Woo , Oh Yoon Seok , Kim Yeonhoo , Yoo Jinkyoung , Lee Jaekwang , Htoon Han , Jia Quanxi , Chen Aiping
Published: April 2023

Transition metal oxides exhibit a plethora of electrical and magnetic properties described by their order parameters. In particular, ferroic orderings offer access to a rich spectrum of fundamental physics phenomena, in addition to a range of technological applications. The heterogeneous integration of ferroelectric and ferromagnetic materials is a fruitful way to design multiferroic oxides. The realization of freestanding heterogeneous membranes of multiferroic oxides is highly desirable. In this study, epitaxial BaTiO3/La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 freestanding bilayer membranes are fabricated using pulsed laser epitaxy. The membrane displays ferroelectricity and ferromagnetism above room temperature accompanying the finite magnetoelectric coupling constant. This study reveals that a freestanding heterostructure can be used to manipulate the structural and emergent properties of the membrane. In the absence of the strain caused by the substrate, the change in orbital occupancy of the magnetic layer leads to the reorientation of the magnetic easy‐axis, that is, perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. These results of designing multiferroic oxide membranes open new avenues to integrate such flexible membranes for electronic applications.
Is Santaniella a ranunculid? Reassessment of this enigmatic fossil angiosperm from the Lower Cretaceous (Aptian, Crato Konservat‐Lagerstätte, Brazil) provides a new interpretation
Authors: Pessoa Edlley M. , Ribeiro Alexandre C. , Christenhusz Maarten J. M. , Coan Alessandra Ike , Jud Nathan A.
Published: April 2023

Premise

The Lower Cretaceous Crato Konservat‐Lagerstätte (CKL) preserves a rich flora that includes early angiosperms from northern Gondwana. From this area, the recently described fossil genus Santaniella was interpreted as a ranunculid (presumably Ranunculaceae). However, based on our examination of an additional specimen and a new phylogenetic analysis, we offer an alternative interpretation.

Methods

The new fossil was collected from an active quarry for paving stones in the state of Ceará, northeastern Brazil. We assessed support for alternative phylogenetic hypotheses using a combined analysis of morphological data and DNA sequence data using Bayesian inference. We used a consensus network to visualize the posterior distribution of trees, and we used RoguePlot to illustrate the support for alternative positions on a scaffold tree.

Results

The new material includes a flower‐like structure not present in the original material and also includes follicles preserved at early stages of development. The flower‐like structure is a compact terminal cluster of elliptical sterile laminar organs surrounding internal filamentous structures that occur on flexuous axes. Phylogenetic analyses did not support the fossil placement among eudicots. Instead, Santaniella appears to belong in the magnoliid clade.

Conclusions

The presence of seeds in a marginal‐linear placentation and enclosed in a follicle supports the fossil as an angiosperm. However, even though most characters are clearly recognizable, its combination of characters does not provide strong support for a close relationship to any extant order of flowering plants. Its position in the magnoliid clade is intriguing and, based on plicate carpels, it is definitely a mesangiosperm.
Quantitative measures of motor development in Angelman syndrome
Authors: Duis Jessica , Skinner Austin , Carson Robert , Gouelle Arnaud , Annoussamy Melanie , Silverman Jill L. , Apkon Susan , Servais Laurent , Carollo James
Published: April 2023

Angelman Syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by developmental delay, lack of speech, seizures, intellectual disability, characteristic behavior, and movement disorders. Clinical gait analysis provides the opportunity for movement quantification to investigate an observed maladaptive change in gait pattern and offers an objective outcome of change. Pressure‐sensor‐based technology, inertial and activity monitoring, and instrumented gait analysis (IGA) were employed to define motor abnormalities in Angelman syndrome. Temporal–spatial gait parameters of persons with Angelman Syndrome (pwAS) show deficiencies in gait performance through walking speed, step length, step width, and walk ratio. pwAS walk with reduced step lengths, increased step width, and greater variability. Three‐dimensional motion kinematics showed increased anterior pelvic tilt, hip flexion, and knee flexion. PwAS have a walk ratio more than two standard deviations below controls. Dynamic electromyography showed prolonged activation of knee extensors, which was associated with a decreased range of motion and the presence of hip flexion contractures. Use of multiple gait tracking modalities revealed that pwAS exhibit a change in gait pattern to a flexed knee gait pattern.  Cross‐sectional studies of individuals with AS show a regression toward this maladaptive gait pattern over development in pwAS ages 4‐11. PwAS unexpectedly did not have spasticity associated with change in gait pattern. Multiple quantitative measures of motor patterning may offer early biomarkers of gait decline consistent with critical periods of intervention, insight into appropriate management strategies, objective primary outcomes, and early indicators of adverse events.
Non‐symmetric Half‐Fused B←N Coordinated Diketopyrrolopyrrole Building Block for n‐type Semiconducting Polymers
Authors: Meng Jinqiu , Dou Jiawen , Zhou Zhaoqiong , Chen Pinyu , Luo Nan , Li Yan , Luo Liang , He Feng , Geng Hua , Shao Xiangfeng , Zhang Hao‐Li , Liu Zitong
Published: April 2023

The development of conjugated polymers with high semiconducting performance and high reliability is of great significance for flexible electronics. Herein, we developed a new type of electron‐accepting building block; i.e., non‐symmetric half‐fused B←N coordinated diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) (HBNDPP), for amorphous conjugated polymers toward flexible electronics. The rigid B←N fusion part of HBNDPP endows the resulting polymers with decent electron transport, while its non‐symmetric structure causes the polymer to exhibit multiple conformation isomers with flat torsional potential energies. Thus, it gets packed in an amorphous manner in solid state, ensuring good resistance to bending strain. Combined with hardness and softness, the flexible organic field‐effect transistor devices exhibit n‐type charge properties with decent mobility, good bending resistance, and good ambient stability. The preliminary study makes this building block a potential candidate for future design of conjugated materials for flexible electronic devices.
Structure‐ and Data‐Driven Protein Engineering of Transaminases for Improving Activity and Stereoselectivity
Authors: Ao Yu‐Fei , Pei Shuxin , Xiang Chao , Menke Marian J. , Shen Lin , Sun Chenghai , Dörr Mark , Born Stefan , Höhne Matthias , Bornscheuer Uwe T.
Published: April 2023

Amine transaminases (ATAs) are powerful biocatalysts for the stereoselective synthesis of chiral amines. Machine learning provides a promising approach for protein engineering, but activity prediction models for ATAs remain elusive due to the difficulty of obtaining high‐quality training data. Thus, we first created variants of the ATA from Ruegeria sp. (3FCR) with improved catalytic activity (up to 2000‐fold) as well as reversed stereoselectivity by a structure‐dependent rational design and collected a high‐quality dataset in this process. Subsequently, we designed a modified one‐hot code to describe steric and electronic effects of substrates and residues within ATAs. Finally, we built a gradient boosting regression tree predictor for catalytic activity and stereoselectivity, and applied this for the data‐driven design of optimized variants which then showed improved activity (up to 3‐fold compared to the best variants previously identified). We also demonstrated that the model can predict the catalytic activity for ATA variants of another origin by retraining with a small set of additional data.
Influence of sodium dodecyl sulphate on the surface and rheological behaviour of functionalised silica/polyacrylamide for drilling
Authors: Koh Jin Kwei , Lai Chin Wei , Johan Mohd Rafie , Gan Sin Seng , Chua Wei Wei
Published: April 2023

The stability of polymer composite can be enhanced by altering the structure of the functionalised material with surface modifiers, such as silane coupling agents, organic modifiers, surfactants and others. Surfactant has emerged as a potential modifier since it is eco‐friendly and simple. In this study, the surface of functionalised silica (SiO2) was modified using sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) in a polyacrylamide (PAM) composite. Characterisation of the drilling fluid was examined through Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, surface tension, contact angle and rheological tests. According to the results, FTIR proved that the modification of PAM was successful. However, all modified PAM showed more hydrophilic properties with low surface tension than bare PAM. The rheological properties of all the modified PAM were varied over all the concentrations of SDS. Meanwhile, the rheological properties of the modified PAM were better than that of bare PAM. Due to the synergistic effect between the surfactant and functionalised material involved, the drilling fluid achieved low plastic viscosity in modified PAM. With a flat gel strength and better rheological properties, 0.2 wt% SDS in modified PAM is a great and promising formula in this study. In the future, further investigation can be conducted on bored pile drilling using this formulation.
How do practicing physical therapists perceive anatomy education?
Authors: Rompolski Krista L. , Fojas Christina L. , Taylor Melissa A.
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this investigation was to explore the perceptions of the sufficiency and relevancy of physical therapy anatomy education among early, mid, and late career physical therapists. A survey was distributed via email through clinical networks in the greater Mid‐Atlantic region, the American Physical Therapy Association Pennsylvania chapter (APTA‐PA), and the American Council of Academic Physical Therapy (ACAPT) Educational Research division. 194 physical therapists responded to the survey. The survey included questions regarding how anatomy was learned in physical therapy school and Likert scale questions investigating opinions of anatomy education. Frequencies were calculated to determine the methods of anatomy education and Likert scale responses. One‐way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was performed to compare the Likert scale responses from the groupings of survey participants. Respondents across all years of practice felt that their anatomy education was sufficient and relevant to their clinical practice and that schools dedicated enough time to teaching anatomy. Respondents who had a dissection component in their anatomy curriculum were more likely to view dissection as essential. Length of time in practice did not influence opinions on the sufficiency or relevancy of anatomy education. Dissection continues to be included in most physical therapy anatomy courses and perceived as essential for learning. Practicing physical therapists' anatomy education was viewed as sufficient and relevant with few recommendations for change. Perceptions of clinicians should be incorporated into curriculum design and reform and be gathered on an ongoing basis as more students from programs without anatomical donors graduate and enter clinical practice.
A model for principals' STEM leadership capability
Authors: Geiger Vince , Beswick Kim , Fraser Sharon , Holland‐Twining Ben
Published: April 2023

In this paper we develop a model for the capabilities required by principals for effective Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) leadership. The model underpinned a large national cross‐sectional research and development project across Australian states in both primary and secondary schools. This model is developed via synthesis of research literature across leadership and STEM education. The model consists of five dimensions of principals' STEM capability: (1) STEM discipline‐specific and integrated knowledge and practices; (2) contexts; (3) dispositions; (4) tools; and (5) critical orientation. These dimensions represent distinct, but interrelated, capacities required by principals to establish and maintain positive STEM learning cultures within schools. Elaborations have been provided, in the form of capabilities, for each of these dimensions. The model has the potential for shaping principals' STEM leadership development trajectories and structuring targeted professional learning programmes for principals, teachers and other members of the school community.
Analytical characterization of host‐cell‐protein‐rich aggregates in monoclonal antibody solutions
Authors: Herman Chase E. , Min Lie , Choe Leila H. , Maurer Ronald W. , Xu Xuankuo , Ghose Sanchayita , Lee Kelvin H. , Lenhoff Abraham M.
Published: April 2023

Host‐cell proteins (HCPs) and high molecular weight (HMW) species have historically been treated as independent classes of impurities in the downstream processing of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), but recent indications suggest that they may be partially linked. We have explored this connection with a shotgun proteomic analysis of HMW impurities that were isolated from harvest cell culture fluid (HCCF) and protein A eluate using size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC). As part of the proteomic analysis, a cross‐digest study was performed in which samples were analyzed using both the standard and native digest techniques to enable a fair comparison between bioprocess pools. This comparison reveals that the HCP profiles of HCCF and protein A eluate overlap substantially more than previous work has suggested, because hundreds of HCPs are conserved in aggregates that may be up to ~50 nm in hydrodynamic radius and that persist through the protein A capture step. Quantitative SWATH proteomics suggests that the majority of the protein A eluate's HCP mass is found in such aggregates, and this is corroborated by ELISA measurements on SEC fractions. The SWATH data also show that intra‐aggregate concentrations of individual HCPs are positively correlated between aggregates that were isolated from HCCF and protein A eluate, and species that have generally been considered difficult to remove tend to be more concentrated than their counterparts. These observations support prior hypotheses regarding aggregate‐mediated HCP persistence through protein A chromatography and highlight the importance of this persistence mechanism.