bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of maximum prescription length supply policy on patient medication adherence, health and economic outcomes
Authors:   , Jarujumrus Inthorn
Published: April 2023

In February 2016, Phramongkutklao hospital has implemented Extended Dispensing Policy (EDP), which increasing prescription length from 30-day to 90-day, with the purpose to increase adherence of patient to their medication prescribed. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of the increasing in maximum prescription refill length from 30-day to 90-day on medication adherence, clinical outcomes such as HbA1c level and cholesterol level, economic outcomes including total healthcare costs, hospitalization costs, and total medication costs among diabetes and dyslipidemia patients in the Phramongkutklao hospital. This study is a quasi-experiment, pre-post, using a retrospective database from a hospital between 2014 to 2017. A difference-in-difference method with propensity score matching was applied to examine the change in medication adherence before and after the EDP implemented among the Universal Coverage insured patients. Multiple logistic and linear regression was performed to determine the association between predictors and interesting outcomes. For DM patients, the DID of MPR enhanced by 5% (P < 0.001). Likewise, the DID of dyslipidemia patients showed a significant increase of 4% (P < 0.001). In addition, the difference-in-difference of HbA1c in the intervention group over control group was lessened by 0.08% while reduction in cholesterol level by 2.83 mg/dL statistically significant (p < 0.001). Moreover, the results from regression revealed that for each 10% improvement in medication adherence was related with the significant reduction in HbA1c by 0.015% (p < 0.001), and cholesterol level by 1 mg/dl (p = 0.001). Furthermore, results from economic outcomes indicates that despite higher total medication costs, patients with greater medication adherence contributes significant saving due to reductions in time costs and hospitalization costs. There are several factors that affect medication adherence, particularly prescription length. Increasing prescription length from 30-day to 90-day, improved medication adherence, reduced in cholesterol and HbA1c level, and minimize total healthcare costs in dyslipidemia and type-2 diabetes patients.
Development of phonics teaching guideline for Thai elementary school students: lesson learned from best practice teachers
Authors:   , Roatchanaphaphong Wanida
Published: April 2023

The purposes of this research were to 1) develop the phonics teaching guideline to teach phonics and 2) evaluate the quality of the developed phonics teaching guideline to teach phonics. The questionnaires, observations and interviews were used as main collecting procedures. The research instruments consisted of 1) Phonics teaching questionnaire, 2) fieldnotes and interview questions, and 3) Phonic teaching guideline quality evaluation questionnaire. The participants were 5 best practice phonics teachers who were currently working in a school context at the time which were selected by the research instrument Phonics teaching questionnaire. The data were analysed by statistical percentage, qualitative data analysis and content analysis.

The findings of the study were as follows: 1) The developed phonics teaching guideline composed of (1) learning outcomes and lesson preparation that are put into a sequence of teaching in a structured order, (2) contents which are the relationship between sounds and letters together and should be sequenced from simple to complex, (3) learning activities that are activity-based and allow students to use their phonics knowledge in an effective way, (4) materials that are easy to prepare and use in a classroom, and (5) assessment and evaluation which enable teachers to check on students learning progress during the lesson and at the end of the course. 2) The results of the evaluation of the quality of the phonics teaching guideline by experts are useful, appropriate, and practical to use in a Thai context.
A GRAVITY MODEL ANALYSIS OF THE EXPORTS OF BANGLADESH TO AFRICAN REGIONS
Authors:   Institute of Business Administration, University of Dhaka, Mehjabeen Melita
Published: April 2023

The objective of the paper is to analyze the bilateral trade between Bangladesh and countries in the African Regions using the Gravity Model approach. For years, Africa has been considered a continent full of opportunities and resources where structural transformations are taking place to integrate African regions into global international trade. At the same time, to achieve competitiveness in international trade, the Government of Bangladesh is looking towards diversifying exports and exploring new markets and regions. Given that, this paper analyses the exports of Bangladesh to 14 top export destinations in the African regions over the last 20 years, spanning 2002-2022, using the gravity model. Besides the general economic size, measured as the trading partners’ real GDP and the distance between the trading partners, the model in the study also considers the exchange rates and per capita GDP of the trading countries. The study employs OLS pooled regression to investigate the determinants. To check for robustness, the study considers both Time Fixed Effect and Random Effect Regressions. Results indicate that Real GDP and Exchange Rates are positively significant to the exports from Bangladesh, while the distance between the trading partners is not found to have any significance. This implies that the bigger Bangladesh's economic size, the more favorable the exchange rate (appreciations in African currencies), and the greater the exports from Bangladesh to these regions. This study can be further conducted with more variables like bilateral trade agreements and geographical and cultural factors to identify if they have any moderating and mediating effects to add to the body of knowledge concerning the countries of interest.
Phát triển sản phẩm, dịch vụ tài chính số tại Việt Nam
Authors:   Học viện Ngân hàng, Trần Thị Xuân Anh , Dương Ngân Hà ,   Học viện Ngân hàng
Published: April 2023

Kế hoạch chuyển đổi số của Bộ Tài chính ban hành theo Quyết định số 1484/QĐ-BTC ngày 27/7/2022 đặt ra mục tiêu đến năm 2025 cơ bản thiết lập nền tảng tài chính số hiện đại, công khai, minh bạch dựa trên dữ liệu lớn, dữ liệu tài chính mở và đến năm 2030 hình thành hệ sinh thái tài chính số gắn với các chỉ tiêu cụ thể để mang lại sự hài lòng, đồng thuận cho đối tượng thụ hưởng. Để đạt được mục tiêu này, việc phát triển sản phẩm, dịch vụ tài chính số là nội dung cốt lõi cần thúc đẩy cả về số lượng và chất lượng. Sử dụng phương pháp phân tích định tính trên số liệu thống kê từ các báo cáo và nghiên cứu trước đó, bài viết tập trung phân tích thực trạng phát triển tiền di động (Mobile Money), hệ sinh thái nền tảng số (Platform eco-systems) và giao diện lập trình ứng dụng mở (Open API) tại Việt Nam. Từ kết quả thực trạng, nhóm tác giả đưa ra một số đánh giá và đề xuất giải pháp nhằm thúc đẩy hơn nữa việc phát triển các sản phẩm, dịch vụ tài chính số trong thời gian tới.
An SMS-Based Examination Relaying System: A Case Study of Kampala International University Main Campus.
Authors:   Department of Information Technology, Kampala International University, Uganda., Wamala Kizito Bernard
Published: April 2023

The implementation of mobile technologies makes it possible for us to have mobile information application. With this information can be delivered and accessed via various types of portable devices immediately. Mobile information provides mobile users with versatile communication to other people and expedient notification of important events, yet with much flexibility, portability and mobility. It also permits mobile users to have access to information regardless of their physical locations. Looking to the flexibility, portability and mobility offered by mobile technologies, here in this paper we will come out with one of mobile information application called SMS based exam result relaying system. This system will enable students to have access to their exam result via mobile phones. A successful system is a system that can fulfill user satisfaction and can be accepted by the users. Usability is one of the important factors in determining user acceptance toward a new system. In order to find out the usability of the system we conducted a usability testing and distributing questionnaire. The questionnaire is based on the four usability factors such as effectiveness, learnability, flexibility and attitude to determine students’ view on the SMS based exam result relaying system. The result of this study showed that the overall level of the usability for four construct (effectiveness, learnability, flexibility and attitude) in student’s point of view is in the acceptable level. Keywords: Usability, Mobile technologies, SMS-based, Mobile information.
Evaluation of the Factors that Affect Family Planning Methods in Clients Attending Maternal Child Health Services at Kyabugimbi Health Centre IV, Bushenyi District, Uganda
Authors:   School of Allied Health Sciences, Kampala International University, Uganda, Jackson Ahimbisibwe
Published: April 2023

Family planning can help reduce maternal mortality by reducing the number of pregnancies, the number of abortions, and the proportion of births at high risk in Bushenyi District. It has been estimated that meeting women’s need for modern contraceptive use would prevent about one quarter to one third of all maternal deaths. This study was aimed at assessing the factors affecting utilization of family planning methods among clients attending child health (MCH) Clinic at Kyabugimbi health Centre IV. A cross-sectional study design was used. According to this study, most of the respondents, were aged 25-34(48%), had no formal education (60%), married(45%) by marital status, peasants (65%) by occupation, while by religion, majority were protestants (41%). Majority (87%) had ever heard about family planning while the minority (13%) had never. The sources of information were health workers (36%), 30% radio and 20% from friends. 38% of the clients reported to be using at least one method of family planning while the majority (56%) was not. Majority of participants reported to be using injecta-plan (14%), pill-plan (9%), condoms (6%), IUDs (4%) and minority (2%) calendar and 6% reported to be using other methods not listed above. This study revealed that majority of the clients reported not to utilize family planning services because they feared side effects (83%), 75% could not afford to travel long distance to the health facility, 67% reported that their religions were against the use of family planning methods while 41% reported that they were not effective in preventing pregnancy. Holding family planning campaigns, educating these clients about the benefits of family planning as well as giving them detailed information in order to put an end to the misconceptions and false beliefs they have about family planning services. More research should be carried on bigger populations for instance referral hospitals to capture larger sample sizes and urban settings. Keywords: Family planning, maternal mortality, abortions, contraceptives.
Prevalence and control of Malaria in Pregnant Antenatal Mothers at Main Hospital, Iganga District, Eastern Uganda.
Authors:   School of Allied Health Sciences Kampala International University, Uganda, Phillip Mugoya, Mwesigwa
Published: April 2023

Malaria is a protozoal disease caused by Plasmodium spp parasite transmitted by an infected female mosquito as it bites the human host. It is one of the most common causes of infectious disease related deaths in the World with Africa bearing the largest proportion of the world's malaria burden because the region hosts the anopheles mosquito which is the most efficient malaria vectors, and also due to lack of the basic infrastructure and resources necessary for efficient and sustainable control of the malaria disease. Despite the wide control strategies, occurrence of malaria is on the increase with an estimated incidence rate of 37% globally and 42% in Africa. In Uganda, malaria is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality and is responsible for 40% of all outpatient visits, 25% of all hospital admission and 14%of all hospital deaths. The study objective was to determine the prevalence of malaria and associated control methods among pregnant women attending focused antenatal care at Iganga Main Hospital, Iganga District. A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in June 2017 at Antenatal Care Clinic, Iganga Main Hospital, and Iganga District, Uganda. Quantitative data was collected by means of questionnaires covering a study population of 126 pregnant mothers where a systematic random sampling method was used. 52/126 (41.3%) were found positive to malaria parasites and majority of pregnant women were aged 20-30 years, these had highest infection rate of 44.2% (38/86),with primigravidas having the highest infection rate of 54.8%. It was also observed that according to gestational age of pregnancy, women of first trimester had the highest prevalence of 68.3% (28/41). The study showed that the most common barrier method used to prevent malaria was treated mosquito nets with 76/126 (60.3%). In general, pregnant mothers had fair knowledge about malaria control methods. Despite focused antenatal care and the awareness on malaria control methods, a malaria prevalence of 41.3% was scored. Therefore interventions aimed at social and behaviour change are necessary to address the gaps highlighted by the study. Keywords: Malaria, mosquito, Plasmodium, mosquito nets
Efficacy of Intravenous Tranexamic Acid on Perioperative Blood Loss and Transfusion Requirement in Spine Fusion Surgery
Authors: Niroula Ankit , Paudel Sushil , Kafle Dinesh
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Blood loss associated with spine fusion surgery is a common potential cause of morbidity and often requires a blood transfusion, which subjects patients to risks of blood transfusion. Tranexamic acid is used intra-operatively to reduce bleeding in major surgeries. This study aims to evaluate its efficacy on perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirement in patients undergoing spine fusion surgery

Methods: This prospective randomised controlled study was conducted at Department of Orthopedics of Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital between August 2015 and July 2016. Patients undergoing spine fusion surgery were randomly assigned to group A (TXA) and group B (control) equally, thirty patients in each group. TXA was given to group A in a loading dose of 10 mg/kg, followed by continuous infusion of 1 mg/kg/hr during surgery. Outcome measures included perioperative blood loss, amount of blood transfusion, and safety and adverse effects. The data were analyzed by means of SPSS version 21.0. The results were presented as mean ± SD. Differences were considered significant if the P-value was <0.05.

Results: Sixty patients (31 males, 29 females) with mean age of 39.95 years were enrolled in study, thirty patients in each group. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences between the 2 study groups with regard to age, sex, weight, preoperative hemoglobin, level of fusion as well as operative time. The amount of perioperative blood loss was significantly less in the group A versus group B, 241.274±162.819 ml vs 661.053±189.469 ml, p=0.000. There was no difference in the incidence of allogenic blood transfusion. There were no complications related to use of TXA in this study.

Conclusion: TXA provided an effective and safe method for reduction of blood loss during and after spine fusion surgery. However, there was no difference in the incidence of perioperative allogeneic blood transfusion.
Vaksin Influenza sebagai Modalitas Pencegahan Kejadian Rawat Inap Akibat Penyakit Kardiovaskular
Authors:   Divisi Kardiologi, Kelompok Staf Medis Ilmu Penyakit Dalam, Fakultas Kedokteran Universitas Indonesia/RSUPN Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo, Jakarta, Rusdi Lusiani , Suhardi Kevin Fernando ,   Divisi Kardiologi, Kelompok Staf Medis Ilmu Penyakit Dalam, Fakultas Kedokteran Universitas Indonesia/RSUPN Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo, Jakarta
Published: April 2023

Penyakit kardiovaskular merupakan salah satu penyakit terbanyak penyebab perawatan pasien di rumah sakit. Pada pasien dengan penyakit kardiovaskular, infeksi virus seperti influenza dapat menjadi pencetus terjadinya sindrom koroner akut dan gagal jantung akut. Beberapa studi menunjukkan keterkaitan kuat antara infeksi influenza dan kejadian kardiovaskular
Graph data science and machine learning for the detection of COVID-19 infection from symptoms
Authors: Alqaissi Eman , Alotaibi Fahd , Ramzan Muhammad Sher
Published: April 2023

Background

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. The symptoms of COVID-19 vary from mild-to-moderate respiratory illnesses, and it sometimes requires urgent medication. Therefore, it is crucial to detect COVID-19 at an early stage through specific clinical tests, testing kits, and medical devices. However, these tests are not always available during the time of the pandemic. Therefore, this study developed an automatic, intelligent, rapid, and real-time diagnostic model for the early detection of COVID-19 based on its symptoms.

Methods

The COVID-19 knowledge graph (KG) constructed based on literature from heterogeneous data is imported to understand the COVID-19 different relations. We added human disease ontology to the COVID-19 KG and applied a node-embedding graph algorithm called fast random projection to extract an extra feature from the COVID-19 dataset. Subsequently, experiments were conducted using two machine learning (ML) pipelines to predict COVID-19 infection from its symptoms. Additionally, automatic tuning of the model hyperparameters was adopted.

Results

We compared two graph-based ML models, logistic regression (LR) and random forest (RF) models. The proposed graph-based RF model achieved a small error rate = 0.0064 and the best scores on all performance metrics, including specificity = 98.71%, accuracy = 99.36%, precision = 99.65%, recall = 99.53%, and F1-score = 99.59%. Furthermore, the Matthews correlation coefficient achieved by the RF model was higher than that of the LR model. Comparative analysis with other ML algorithms and with studies from the literature showed that the proposed RF model exhibited the best detection accuracy.

Conclusion

The graph-based RF model registered high performance in classifying the symptoms of COVID-19 infection, thereby indicating that the graph data science, in conjunction with ML techniques, helps improve performance and accelerate innovations.
Reinserción escolar : las representaciones sociales de exalumnos sobre su proceso educacional en escuelas de segunda oportunidad
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Facultad de Educación, Villablanca Agurto Cynthia
Published: April 2023

El presente informe da cuenta de un estudio de caso, sobre el significado que algunos jóvenes le otorgan a su proceso de reinserción, en relación con sus historias escolares y de vida, a partir del análisis del relato de una cohorte de exestudiantes que registraron alta asistencia y fueron promovidos de enseñanza básica el 2015, de cuatro establecimientos educacionales pertenecientes a la Fundación Súmate de la Región Metropolitana. Corresponde a un estudio de caso múltiple de seguimiento de estudiantes, de tipo cualitativo y alcance exploratorio. Se plantea realizar el proceso de recolección de información mediante entrevista semi estructurada. Los datos resultantes se analizan e interpretan desde el enfoque teórico-metodológico de las representaciones sociales.
Treatment and Slip Effect on MHD Blood Flow through a Stenotic Artery: A Mathematical Model
Authors: Omamoke Ekakitie , Amos Emeka
Published: April 2023

Theoretical study of the treatment and slip effect on Magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) blood flow through a stenotic artery where the porous wall and the boundary slip at the wall of the artery have a significant effect on the blood flow was investigated. The magnetic field is applied radially on the stenotic region of the artery with blood flowing axially. Dimensionless governing equations was solved using Frobenius series method to obtain a solution for the velocity of the blood flow, blood concentration, wall shear stress, fluid acceleration and the volumetric flow rate. The Results showed that, an increase in the chemical reaction increased the blood viscosity causing a decrease in the blood velocity, acceleration and shear stress at the wall but increases the volumetric flow rate of the blood. Increased slip at the wall with stenosis decreases the blood velocity, acceleration and volumetric flow rate but causes an increase in the wall shear stress.
Prospecção Tecnológica do Levedo de Cerveja Como Matéria-Prima Para a Indústria de Alimentos
Authors: Ongaratto Ricardo , Costa Giovanna Vittória Gaglianone Saraiva
Published: April 2023

Com o crescimento da indústria cervejeira, a quantidade de coprodutos provenientes da fabricação de cerveja aumentou. Um desses produtos é o levedo, que pode ser reaproveitado tanto na indústria de cerveja quanto em outros segmentos industriais de alimentos. Por esse motivo, foi realizada uma prospecção tecnológica na base de dados do Escritório Europeu de Patentes (EPO), Espacenet, de forma a avaliar as diversas aplicações desse coproduto em diferentes setores da indústria de alimentos. Os resultados mostraram que o levedo possui patentes nos setores de Bebidas Fermentadas/Destiladas, Produtos Alimentícios para Animais, Bebidas não Alcóolicas, Composições à Base de Proteínas, Panificação, Frutas e Hortaliças, Óleos e Gorduras, entre outros, com destaque para os dois primeiros, que representaram quase 50% dos documentos recuperados. Entretanto, o Brasil ainda não se apresenta como destaque entre os países com maior desenvolvimento tecnológico nessa área, apesar de ser um dos principais produtores mundiais de cerveja.
The relative effectiveness of different grassland restoration methods: A systematic literature search and meta‐analysis
Authors: Slodowicz Daniel , Durbecq Aure , Ladouceur Emma , Eschen René , Humbert Jean‐Yves , Arlettaz Raphaël
Published: April 2023

Active grassland restoration has gained importance in mitigating the dramatic decline of farmnland biodiversity. While there is evidence that such operations are generally effective in promoting plant diversity, little is known about the effectiveness of the different methods applied. Restoration methods can differ in intensity of seed bed preparation, seed source and method of seed application.

In this systematic literature search and meta‐analysis, we screened the literature for studies of the restoration of mesic grasslands in temperate Europe. We focused on active restoration experiments that included a treatment and lasted for more than 3 years. We evaluated the influence of restoration factors on plant species richness relative to non‐restored controls.

We found 187 articles that investigated the outcome of operations aimed at actively restoring mesic temperate grasslands. Most articles focused on plants, with only 9.6% dealing with other organisms (e.g. beetles, pollinating insects). Many papers had to be excluded due to incomplete data, too short study duration and/or lack of an adequate control. This resulted in 13 articles fulfilling our criteria for inclusion, yielding a total of 56 data points for the meta‐analysis.

Restoration actions increased plant species richness by, on average, 17.4%, compared to controls. The seed source explained a significant amount of variation in plant species richness: seeds originating from a speciose donor grassland had a positive effect. This effect was even enhanced when combined with a commercial seed mix, whereas commercial seed mixes alone had no significant effect. We did not observe any effect of other factors, such as the type of seed bed preparation or the seed application method.

A seed‐source obtained from species‐rich grasslands seems to be key to efficient grassland restoration in mesic grasslands of temperate Europe. Even though seeds from a speciose donor grassland should be preferred over commercial seeds, associating natural and commercial seed mixes increases plant species richness. This systematic literature search further revealed two major research gaps in grassland restoration ecology: a deficit in long‐term investigations as well as a deficit in studies focusing on non‐plant organisms.
Impact of Television Depictions of Gout on Perceptions of Illness: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Murdoch Rachel , Mihov Borislav , Horne Anne M. , Petrie Keith J. , Gamble Gregory D. , Dalbeth Nicola
Published: April 2023

Objective

Gout is a chronic disease that can be effectively managed with long‐term urate‐lowering therapy. However, it is frequently portrayed on screen as an acute disease caused by a poor diet that should be managed with lifestyle changes. This study was undertaken to investigate the impact of a fictional television depiction of gout on perceptions of the disease and its management.

Methods

In a randomized controlled single‐blind study, 200 members of the public watched either a 19‐minute commercial television comedy episode that depicted gout as an acute disease caused by poor diet and managed with lifestyle changes, or a control episode from the same television series that did not mention gout or other diseases. Participants completed a survey regarding their perceptions of gout, its likely causes, and management strategies.

Results

Participants randomized to watch the gout‐related episode believed gout had greater consequences (mean score of 7.1 versus 6.2 on an 11‐point Likert scale; P < 0.001) and were more likely to rank the most important cause as poor eating habits compared to the control group (70% versus 38%; P < 0.001). They were also less likely to believe it is caused by genetic factors or chance. Participants watching the gout‐related episode believed a change in diet would be a more effective management strategy (9.0 versus 8.4; P = 0.004) and long‐term medication use would be less effective (6.9 versus 7.6; P = 0.007) compared to participants in the control group.

Conclusion

Television depictions of gout can perpetuate inaccurate beliefs regarding causes of the disease and underemphasize effective medical strategies required in chronic disease management.
Artificial Intelligence in Material Engineering: A Review on Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Material Engineering
Authors: Goswami Lipichanda , Deka Manoj Kumar , Roy Mohendra
Published: April 2023

The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in material science and engineering (MSE) is becoming increasingly important as AI technology advances. The development of high‐performance computing has made it possible to test deep learning (DL) models with significant parameters, providing an opportunity to overcome the limitation of traditional computational methods, such as density functional theory (DFT), in property prediction. Machine learning (ML)‐based methods are faster and more accurate than DFT‐based methods. Furthermore, the generative adversarial networks (GANs) have facilitated the generation of chemical compositions of inorganic materials without using crystal structure information. These developments have significantly impacted material engineering (ME) and research. Some of the latest developments in AI in ME herein are reviewed. First, the development of AI in the critical areas of ME, such as in material processing, the study of structure and material property, and measuring the performance of materials in various aspects, is discussed. Then, the significant methods of AI and their uses in MSE, such as graph neural network, generative models, transfer of learning, etc. are discussed. The use of AI to analyze the results from existing analytical instruments is also discussed. Finally, AI's advantages, disadvantages, and future in ME are discussed.
Modulating Oxygen Vacancies in Lead Chromate for Photoelectrocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Zhou Hongpeng , Zhang Deyun , Xie Huichen , Liu Yang , Meng Caixia , Zhang Pengfei , Fan Fengtao , Li Rengui , Li Can
Published: April 2023

Although modulating oxygen vacancies in semiconductors has attracted broad interest in photocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis, identifying the intrinsic roles of oxygen vacancies on photoelectrocatalytic properties is often elusive. In this work, the oxygen vacancies in a typical semiconductor lead chromate (PbCrO4) are regulated via controlling the oxygen chemical potentials of O‐poor and O‐rich post‐annealing atmospheres. Oxygen vacancies identified in PbCrO4 can introduce electronically shallow energy levels and deep energy levels owing to the symmetry difference of oxygen atoms in the structure. A higher population of deep energy levels created under O‐poor atmosphere induces the formation of more surface trapped states, resulting in a higher photovoltage for charge separation. Meanwhile, the existence of surface trapped states can significantly improve the charge injection efficiency of the PbCrO4 photoanode and enhance the water oxidation activity. By modulating oxygen vacancies in the PbCrO4 photoanode, a photocurrent density of 3.43 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) under simulated AM1.5G is acheived. Further passivation of surface trapped states and introducing the water oxidation cocatalyst CoPi lead to a record applied bias photon‐to‐current efficiency (ABPE) of 1.12%. This work provides a guide to understand the mechanism of oxygen vacancies in oxide‐based semiconductor photocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis.
Trajectories and impact of White mentors’ beliefs about racial and ethnic discrimination in a formal youth mentoring program
Authors: Simpson Savannah B. , Hsu Ti , Raposa Elizabeth B.
Published: April 2023

To examine associations between White mentors’ beliefs regarding the presence of discrimination towards Black, Indigenous, and people of Color (BIPOC) individuals and mentoring relationship outcomes, mentors’ beliefs about racial/ethnic discrimination were assessed before random mentee assignment and at the end of 9 months of mentoring. White mentors matched with BIPOC youth showed greater increases in beliefs that discrimination limits opportunities for Black Americans. Stronger endorsement of the impacts of discrimination for Hispanic Americans resulted in less youth relationship anxiety when White mentors were matched with White mentees, but not when they were matched with BIPOC mentees. Last, greater increases in beliefs that discrimination limits opportunities for Black Americans resulted in less relationship anxiety for White mentors matched with White mentees, but more relationship anxiety for those matched with BIPOC mentees. Programs should assess and address mentors’ racial biases to minimize harm and augment the impact of mentoring programs for all youth.
Serum Alpha and Beta‐CGRP Levels in Chronic Migraine Patients Before and After Monoclonal Antibodies Against CGRP or its Receptor
Authors: Gárate Gabriel , González‐Quintanilla Vicente , González Andrea , Pascual Marta , Pérez‐Pereda Sara , Madera Jorge , Pascual Julio
Published: April 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to analyze the evolution of alpha and beta‐CGRP circulating levels throughout CGRP monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) treatment in patients with chronic migraine (CM).

Methods

We recruited patients with CM beginning mAbs along with sex and age paired healthy controls (HCs). Blood was extracted before, 2 weeks (M0.5) and 3 months (M3) after the first dose of mAbs, always in free‐migraine periods, and once for HCs. Alpha and beta‐CGRP serum levels were measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) specific for each isoform.

Results

Baseline alpha‐CGRP levels were significantly elevated in 103 patients with CM (median = 50.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 40.5–57.0 pg/ml) compared to 78 HCs (median = 37.5, 95% CI = 33.9–45.0 pg/ml; 95% CI of differences = 2.85–17.08 pg/ml) and significantly decreased (n = 96) over the course of mAb treatment (M0.5: median = 40.4, 95% CI = 35.6–48.2 pg/ml; and M3: median = 40.9, 95% CI = 36.3–45.9 pg/ml). Absolute decrease of alpha‐CGRP throughout the treatment positively correlated with the decrease in MMDs. Negative modulation of alpha‐CGRP significantly associated with positive scores at the Patient Global Impression of Change scale and with analgesic overuse reversal. Beta‐CGRP did not differ at baseline between patients with CM (median = 4.2, 95% CI = 3.0–4.8 pg/ml) and HCs (median = 4.4, 95% CI = 3.4–5.6 pg/ml; −1.09 to 0.60) nor was modulated by mAb treatment (n = 96; M0.5: median = 4.5, 95% CI = 3.5–5.2 pg/ml; and M3: median = 4.6, 95% CI = 3.7–5.2 pg/ml).

Interpretation

Treatment with mAbs, regardless of its target, is able to progressively normalize basally increased alpha‐CGRP levels in CM and this effect correlates with efficacy measures, which supports a role of this neuropeptide as the first CM biomarker. ANN NEUROL 2023;94:285–294
Hydrogen Bonding Enables Polymer Hydrogels with pH‐Induced Reversible Dynamic Responsive Behaviors
Authors: Cheng Ruidong , Xu Mingwei , Zhang Xuehui , Jiang Jinqiang , Zhang Qiuyu , Zhao Yue
Published: April 2023

Poly(acrylic acid‐co‐N‐vinylcaprolactam) (PAN) hydrogels containing multiple hydrogen bonds can exhibit pH‐induced reversible dynamic responsive behaviors. When placing a transparent hydrogel in an acid bath, as hydrogen bonds between comonomer units involving protonated COOH groups are formed faster than water diffusion, a nonequilibrium light‐scattering state is formed to turn the hydrogel opaque, while as the swelling equilibrium is reached over time, the hydrogel regains its transparency. Likewise, when the transparent, hydrogen‐bonded hydrogel is subsequently immersed in DI water, faster water absorption occurs in where more COOH groups are deprotonated, which also generates a light‐scattering state leading to opacity, while the transparency is slowly recovered after equilibrium. Using such two‐way dynamic transparency evolution, a PAN‐based hydrogel material is prepared to demonstrate a dynamic memory system for information memorizing‐forgetting and recalling‐forgetting.
Assembly of One to Four As4 Analogues, (Ge2As2)2− or (Ge3As)3−, in the Coordination Sphere of [PhM]+, [MesM]+, or M2+ (M=Zn, Cd, Hg)
Authors: Wei Shangxin , Peerless Benjamin , Guggolz Lukas , Mitzinger Stefan , Dehnen Stefanie
Published: April 2023

Pseudo‐tetrahedral units of p‐block atoms proved to be excellent building blocks for novel molecular architectures and for introducing new elemental combinations which are not otherwise accessible. In this work, we present a series of clusters obtained by reactions of binary Ge/As anions with [MPh2] (M=Zn, Cd, Hg; Ph=phenyl). The study is grounded on the fact that the binary reactant gained by extracting the solid ‘K2GeAs’ with ethane‐1,2‐diamine (en) co‐exists as (Ge2As2)2− and (Ge3As)3− in solution. This allows for a larger variety of products by ‘selecting’ the most suitable species for the final ternary complex to crystallize. The reactions afforded the unprecedented first step of the corresponding interaction, thus attachment of (MPh)+ to a pseudo‐tetrahedral unit in [PhZn(Ge3As)]2− (1) and [PhHg(Ge3As)]2− (2), and complex anions with two, three, or four units, [(Ge3As)Zn(Ge2As2)]3− (3), [Cd3(Ge3As)3]3− (4), and [Zn3(Ge3As)4]6− (5). Quantum chemistry confirmed the compositions and the positions of the Ge or As atoms, beside explaining structural peculiarities. The subtle impact of different [MR2] reactants was additionally studied by corresponding reactions using [ZnMes2] (Mes=mesityl), which showed success in selectively crystallizing [MesZn(Ge3As)]2− (6). Based on our findings, we derive a suggestion of the underlying reaction cascade.
Ultra‐Small‐Bandgap Conjugated Polymers Based on an N−B←N Unit
Authors: Xu Jin , Liu Jun , Wang Lixiang
Published: April 2023

Since the breakthrough of conductive polymers in 1977, scientists have made great efforts to create small band gap (Eg) conjugated polymers. Two general strategies to design small Eg conjugated polymers are quinoid structure and donor‐acceptor structure. Ultrasmall Eg conjugated polymers (Eg<1.0 eV) always suffer from poor air stability because of high‐lying HOMO energy levels. In this work, we report a new strategy to design ultrasmall Eg conjugated polymers by N−B←N unit, i.e. balanced resonant boron‐nitrogen covalent bond (B−N) and boron‐nitrogen coordination bond (B←N). The resulting polymer exhibits an Eg of 0.82 eV and an onset absorption wavelength of >1500 nm. Moreover, the polymer exhibits excellent air stability because of its low‐lying LUMO/HOMO energy levels. An unprecedented property of this polymer is the selective light absorption in the infrared range (800–1500 nm) and high transparency in the visible range (400–780 nm). Using this property, for the first time, we demonstrate the application of conjugated polymers as transparent thermal‐shielding coating layer on glass, which reduces indoor solar irradiation through window and consequently reduces power consumption for cooling of buildings and cars in summer.
Virus‐Like Particle‐Induced cGAS‐STING Activation and AIM2 Inflammasome‐Mediated Pyroptosis for Robust Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Xu Xinyu , Fan Huanhuan , Yang Ying , Yao Shankun , Yu Wenhao , Guo Zijian , Tan Weihong
Published: April 2023

cGAS‐STING‐mediated DNA sensing is demonstrated to be critical for launching antitumor immunity. However, DNA‐based cGAS‐STING agonists are rarely reported owing to low cell permeability, poor biostability and, especially, limited length of exogenous DNA. Here, we present a virus‐like particle which is self‐assembled from long DNA building blocks generated through rolling‐circle amplification (RCA) and covered with cationic liposomes. Based on long and densely packed DNA structure, it could efficiently induce liquid phase condensation of cGAS and activate STING signaling to produce inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, this virus‐like particle could also trigger the formation of AIM2 inflammasome to induce gasdermin D‐mediated pyroptosis, boosting antitumor immunity. Thus, this study provides a simple and robust strategy for cancer immunotherapy for clinical application. This is the first study to report the intrinsic immunogenicity of RCA products, thus facilitating their biomedical applications.
Metal‐Organic Framework Nanoparticles with Universal Dispersibility through Crown Ether Surface Coordination for Phase‐Transfer Catalysis and Separation Membranes
Authors: Yang Xiaoxin , Zhang Qiao , Liu Yufeng , Nian Mengjie , Xie Min , Xie Shasha , Yang Qinglian , Wang Suna , Wei Hui , Duan Jingui , Dong Shengyi , Xing Hang
Published: April 2023

Dispersing metal‐organic framework (MOF) solids in stable colloids is crucial for their availability and processibility. Herein, we report a crown ether surface coordination approach for functionalizing the surface‐exposed metal sites of MOF particles with amphiphilic carboxylated crown ether (CEC). The surface‐bound crown ethers significantly improve MOF solvation without compromising the accessible voids. We demonstrate that CEC‐coated MOFs exhibit exceptional colloidal dispersibility and stability in 11 distinct solvents and six polymer matrices with a wide range of polarities. The MOF‐CEC can be instantaneously suspended in immiscible two‐phase solvents as an effective phase‐transfer catalyst and can form various uniform membranes with enhanced adsorption and separation performance, which highlights the effectiveness of crown ether coating.
Cooperative Sensitization Upconversion in Solution Dispersions of Co‐Crystal Assemblies of Mononuclear Yb3+ and Eu3+ Complexes
Authors: Sun Guotao , Xie Yao , Wang Yuxin , Mandl Gabrielle A. , Maurizio Steven L. , Zhang Hongjie , Ottenwaelder Xavier , Capobianco John A. , Sun Lining
Published: April 2023

Lanthanide upconversion luminescence in nanoparticles has prompted continuous breakthroughs in information storage, temperature sensing, and biomedical applications, among others. Achieving upconversion luminescence at the molecular scale is still a critical challenge in modern chemistry. In this work, we explored the upconversion luminescence of solution dispersions of co‐crystals composed of discrete mononuclear Yb(DBM)3Bpy and Eu(DBM)3Bpy complexes (DBM: dibenzoylmethane, Bpy: 2,2′‐bipyridine). The 613 nm emission of Eu3+ was observed under excitation of Yb3+ at 980 nm. From the series of molecular assemblies studied, the most intense luminescence was obtained for a 1 : 1 molar ratio of Yb3+ : Eu3+, resulting in a high quantum yield of 0.67 % at 2.1 W cm−2. The structure and energy transfer mechanism of the assemblies were fully characterized. This is the first example of an Eu3+‐based upconverting system composed of two discrete mononuclear lanthanide complexes present as co‐crystals in non‐deuterated solution.
Nano‐SH‐MOF@Self‐Assembling Hollow Spherical g‐C3N4 Heterojunction for Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Ding Zhu , Wang Shuo , Yan Sai , Zeng Yu‐Jia , Wang Dan‐Hong
Published: April 2023

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs)@g‐C3N4 heterojunctions are widely investigated as one of the most potential photocatalysts for N2 fixation owing to the visible absorption and effective photocatalytic properties. It is still a huge challenge to synthesize hollow spherical C3N4 coated with Nano‐MOF layers towards efficient visible photocatalytic activity on N2 fixation. In this work, the paramagnetic hollow spherical C3N4 (H‐C3N4) are coated with free radical MOF with sulfhydryl ligand (Nano‐SH‐MOF)[Zn2(DSBDC)] by self‐assemble method. The C8 M2 samples (the mass ratio of H‐C3N4 to Nano‐SH‐MOF is 8 : 2) exhibited an improved photocatalytic activity, which is almost 5.4 times higher than the pure H‐C3N4. The improved photocatalytic activity is also discussed in this work. It can be imagined that this work may be helpful for the hollow spherical C3N4 based heterojunction and MOF‐based heterojunction photocatalysts with effective photocatalytic nitrogen fixation.
Photochemical Reaction Mechanism of Intramolecular H Transfer Reaction of H2C3O+⋅ Radical Cation
Authors: Kim Joonghan , Oh Dakyeung , Park Eunji , Park Jeongmin , Kim Jungyoon , Lim Jeong Sik
Published: April 2023

The photochemical reaction mechanism underlying the intramolecular H‐transfer of the H2C3O+⋅ radical cation to the H2CCCO+⋅ methylene ketene cation was elucidated using time‐dependent density functional theory and high‐level ab initio methods. Once the D1 state of H2C3O+⋅ is populated, the reaction proceeds to form an intermediate (IM) in the D1 state (IM4D1). The molecular structure of the conical intersection (CI) was optimized using a multiconfigurational ab initio method. The CI is readily accessible because it lies slightly above the IM4D1 in energy. In addition, the gradient difference vector of the CI is almost parallel to the intramolecular H‐transfer reaction coordinate. Once the vibration mode of IM4D1 which is parallel to the reaction coordinate is populated, the degeneracy of the CI is readily lifted and H2CCCO+⋅ was formed via a relaxation pathway in the D0 state. Our calculated results clearly describe the photochemical intramolecular H transfer reaction reported in a recent study.
The Track‐by‐Day Method for Monitoring the Rodent Estrous Cycle
Authors: Raimondi Gianna M. , Tripp Rebecca , Ostroff Linnaea E.
Published: April 2023

The exclusion of female subjects from preclinical neuroscience research has traditionally been justified in part by concerns about potential effects of cycling ovarian hormones on brain function. There is evidence that some behavioral and neurobiological measures do change over the estrous cycle and, as the use of female subjects becomes increasingly routine, there is a greater demand for accessible cycle‐tracking methods. Conventional estrous cycle staging requires expert training in the qualitative interpretation of vaginal cytology smears, which serves as a barrier for novice researchers. In addition, definitions and reporting practices are not standardized across laboratories, which makes it difficult to compare results across studies and likely contributes to a false perception of the cycle as ephemeral and inconsistent. Here, we describe a streamlined method for monitoring the estrous cycle in rats, which we term Track‐by‐Day. It is simple to implement and inherently produces consistent reporting. Our protocol should serve to demystify and facilitate adoption of cycle tracking for those new to the practice. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Collection and staining of vaginal smears

Basic Protocol 2: Track‐by‐Day classification of vaginal smears

Support Protocol: Preparation of gelatin‐subbed slides
Multiple invasion trajectories induce niche dynamics inconsistency and increase risk uncertainty of a plant invader
Authors: Zhang Liyun , Zhu Min , Wan Yu , Liu Xiaofei
Published: April 2023

Our knowledge of how niche dynamic patterns respond to invasion trajectories and influence invasion risk prediction is elusive for the majority of notorious invaders, hindering scientific understanding, biosecurity planning and practice, and management implementation of biological invasions. We used Mikania micrantha, one of the world's worst invasive alien species (IAS), to test the hypothesis that multiple invasion trajectories could induce niche dynamics inconsistency and increase risk uncertainty of IAS. We compiled a robust database of M. micrantha occurrence across its native range in Central and South America and invaded range in China. This database was used to clarify different invaded ranges and invasion trajectories of M. micrantha in China. Principal components analysis of climatic variables associated with the database was used to explore the niche dynamic patterns associated with multiple invasion trajectories of M. micrantha. Maximum entropy algorithm was used to predict the high‐risk area of M. micrantha invasion using occurrence datasets for invaded ranges where niches remained conservative, and to detect area changes with the inclusion of occurrence datasets for invaded ranges where niche shifts occurred. M. micrantha invasion occurred in three geographically distinct regions, with conservative climate niches in southern and southeastern China and climatic niche shifts in southwestern China. A high‐risk area for M. micrantha invasion spanned multiple provinces and cities and expanded considerably with the inclusion of the occurrence dataset for southwestern China. Our findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of invasion mechanisms and the practical optimization of biosecurity planning and implementation.