bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Media Representation and Cultural Identity
Authors:   Wheatley Research Consultancy, Bagley, Minnesota, USA, Wheatley Mary
Published: November 2024

This article explores the dynamics of media representation and its profound impact on cultural identity and intercultural relations, exploring how various forms of media—television, films, and digital platforms—shape and are shaped by cultural identities globally. By employing key theoretical frameworks like cultural imperialism and representation theory, it examines the ways in which media influences cultural perceptions and identities across different regions, from the dominance of Western narratives to the cultural expressions in Eastern media. The review further investigates the role of modern media technologies, such as streaming platforms and social media, in facilitating global cultural exchange while also perpetuating stereotypes. Case studies of diverse media representations illustrate the dual role of media in challenging and reinforcing cultural norms and stereotypes. The findings highlight the necessity for media producers, policymakers, and educators to foster more accurate and inclusive representations to enhance cultural understanding and identity formation in an increasingly globalized world.
School Principals’ Conceptual Skills and Students’ Academic Performance in Public Secondary Schools in Kakamega County
Authors: Odinga Titus Masika , Kibaara Dr. Janerose , Nyaga Dr. Peter
Published: November 2024

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to establish how school principals’ conceptual skills influence students’ academic performance in public secondary schools in Kakamega County.
Methods: The study made use of a correlation research design. A total of 3,350 teachers, 276 deputy principals, 1104 heads of departments, and 276 principals of secondary schools in Kakamega County make up the target population of 5006 subjects. The study sampled 152 respondents, which comprised 8 principals, 8 deputy principals, 34 HODs, and 102 teachers. Stratified simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were applied to sample participants who were 152. Questionnaires were used to collect data from teachers, deputy principals, and heads of departments, and an interview guide for the principals. Inferential statistics which included regression analysis was used to determine how the independent factors affect the dependent variable.
Results: The study found that principals’ conceptual skills had a positive and significant effect on academic performance in public secondary schools in Kakamega County.
Conclusion: Ensuring teachers understand the vision and mission of the school which is the responsibility of the school principal enhances the school performance. The principal should however provide guidance to the teachers on ways to achieve the school’s vision and mission. Policymakers who make school-related policies should formulate a policy that will guide the TSC when posting principals to only post those who are competent in conceptual skills.
Keywords: Leadership skills, conceptual skills, academic performance
El rol de la transparencia contable en la prevención de la corrupción a través de prácticas globales
Authors: Hurtado-Guevara Richard Fernando , Almeida-Blacio Jorge Hernan
Published: November 2024

This article explores the impact of accounting transparency on the prevention of corruption, highlighting the importance of sound accounting systems as a means to promote organizational ethics and reduce illicit practices. In order to analyze the effects of accounting practices on governance, an exploratory desk review approach was used, examining previous studies and international accounting and auditing standards. The results highlight three key areas: the relevance of rigorous financial disclosure standards, the influence of senior management on the implementation of an ethical culture, and the challenges in adopting transparency practices. The discussion addresses how the lack of uniformity in regulations and organizational resistance to change limit the adoption of transparency systems, especially in developing countries. In conclusion, although accounting transparency is essential to reduce fraud and corruption, its effective implementation depends on regulatory harmonization, organizational leadership, and investment in adequate infrastructure, which are critical factors in building a globally trustworthy accounting environment.
International cooperation of subjects of public control (subjects of civil society) on the example of the countries of the European Union
Authors: Blinnikova Anna  Valer'evna , Goncharov Vitalii Viktorovich , Malinovskii Oleg Nikolaevich , Cheshin Andrei Vladimirovich , Petrenko Elena Gennad'evna
Published: November 2024

This article is devoted to the analysis of the current state and problems of the development of the institute of international cooperation of subjects of public control (subjects of civil society) on the example of the countries of the European Union. The authors note that the Institute of public control, which in the countries of the European Union is referred to in the context of the terms "transparency" and "participation", is the most important institution of civil society in these states, which has a long history. Due to the fact that the European states have been increasingly converging in their interaction and cooperation over the past decades (which was reflected in the creation and development of the European Union as an international intergovernmental organization), similar processes of international and interstate cooperation are taking place in the processes of interaction between subjects of public control (subjects of civil society of the national states of Europe). This cooperation is carried out both within the framework of the European Union (through the creation of European unions and associations of various types of subjects of public control), and through cooperation of these European unions and associations with other international associations and unions of subjects of public control (subjects of civil society).  A number of scientific research methods are used in the work, in particular: formal-logical; comparative-legal; historical-legal; statistical; sociological; method of analyzing specific legal situations. The authors identified and analyzed the main problems hindering international cooperation of subjects of public control (subjects of civil society) on the example of the countries of the European Union, among which the following can be distinguished: the absence of a single normative legal act in the European Union, which would consolidate the legal status and foundations of this international cooperation; weak powers as subjects of public control (subjects of civil society) in the EU countries and their European unions and associations (as well as international associations and unions in this field); weak development of the institute of international associations and unions of subjects of public control (subjects of civil society) in the world as a whole; insufficient use of modern digital technologies by these subjects both in their activities and in the processes of cooperation; the lack of unification of national legislation in this area both in the countries of the European Union and in the world as a whole. A system of measures to resolve these problems has been developed and justified.
Effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors use in asia towards cardiorenal outcomes: Updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cokro Fonny , Sauriasari Rani , Tahapary Dicky Levenus , Setiawan Heri
Published: November 2024

Effective diabetes prevention and control are needed to address Asia’s growing diabetes epidemic. This meta-analysis assessed how sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2Is) affected cardiorenal outcomes in Asians. A comprehensive review of literature from PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and citation searching up to December 2023 identified 13 randomized controlled trials comparing SGLT2Is and placebo, involving 14,922 Asians with type 2 diabetes and a history of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk, heart failure (HF), or chronic kidney disease. The RoB 2 tool assessed bias, while RevMan 5.3 synthesized quantitative data. There was no significant reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events for Asians (HR = 0.82, 95%CI = 0.66–1.01) or in the Asia region (HR = 0.88, 95%CI = 0.76–1.01). However, a notable benefit was observed for the composite of cardiovascular death/worsening HF in Asians (HR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.52–0.80) and the Asia region (HR = 0.66, 95%CI = 0.58–0.75). Additionally, SGLT2Is demonstrated favourable renal outcomes for Asians (HR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.51–0.80) and the Asia region (HR = 0.64, 95%CI = 0.56–0.74). Safety assessments revealed 2.88 times increased risk of Genital Mycotic Infections. GRADE analysis showed moderate to high certainty for all primary outcomes. In conclusion, SGLT2Is improve Asian renal outcomes. Real-world studies in Asia are recommended to assess the practical cardiorenal efficacy of SGLT2Is in routine healthcare settings.
Cellular evolution of the hypothalamic preoptic area of behaviorally divergent deer mice
Authors: Chen Jenny , Richardson Phoebe R , Kirby Christopher , Eddy Sean R , Hoekstra Hopi E
Published: November 2024

Genetic variation is known to contribute to the variation of animal social behavior, but the molecular mechanisms that lead to behavioral differences are still not fully understood. Here, we investigate the cellular evolution of the hypothalamic medial preoptic area (MPOA), a brain region that plays a critical role in social behavior, across two sister species of deer mice (
Peromyscus maniculatus
and
P. polionotus
) with divergent social systems. These two species exhibit large differences in mating and parental care behavior across species and sex. Using single-nucleus RNA-sequencing, we build a cellular atlas of the MPOA for males and females of both
Peromyscus
species. We identify four cell types that are differentially abundant across species, two of which may account for species differences in parental care behavior. Our data further implicate two sex-biased cell types to be important for the evolution of sex-specific behavior. Finally, we show a remarkable reduction of sex-biased gene expression in
P. polionotus
, a monogamous species that also exhibits reduced sexual dimorphism in parental care behavior. Our MPOA atlas is a powerful resource to investigate how molecular neuronal traits may be evolving to give rise to innate differences in social behavior across animal species.
Patch-walking, a coordinated multi-pipette patch clamp for efficiently finding synaptic connections
Authors: Yip Mighten C , Gonzalez Mercedes M , Lewallen Colby F , Landry Corey R , Kolb Ilya , Yang Bo , Stoy William M , Fong Ming-fai , Rowan Matthew JM , Boyden Edward S , Forest Craig R
Published: November 2024

Significant technical challenges exist when measuring synaptic connections between neurons in living brain tissue. The patch clamping technique, when used to probe for synaptic connections, is manually laborious and time-consuming. To improve its efficiency, we pursued another approach: instead of retracting all patch clamping electrodes after each recording attempt, we cleaned just one of them and reused it to obtain another recording while maintaining the others. With one new patch clamp recording attempt, many new connections can be probed. By placing one pipette in front of the others in this way, one can ‘walk’ across the mouse brain slice, termed ‘patch-walking.’ We performed 136 patch clamp attempts for two pipettes, achieving 71 successful whole cell recordings (52.2%). Of these, we probed 29 pairs (i.e. 58 bidirectional probed connections) averaging 91 μm intersomatic distance, finding three connections. Patch-walking yields 80–92% more probed connections, for experiments with 10–100 cells than the traditional synaptic connection searching method.
Association between circulating CTRP9 levels and coronary artery disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Ziyi , Niu Qingsheng , Tang Shiyuan , Jiang Yaowen
Published: November 2024

Background

C1q tumor necrosis factor (TNF) related proteins 9 (CTRP9) is a novel adipocytokine that has been shown to have a cardioprotective effect in coronary artery disease (CAD). However, there are conflicting results on circulating levels of CTRP9 in patients with and without CAD. This meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the association between circulating CTRP9 levels and CAD.

Objective

The aim of this meta-analysis was to re-examine the relationship between circulating CTRP9 levels and CAD.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP, Wanfang Data, and CBM for relevant studies up to October 2023, and 193 articles were identified. After reading the title, abstract and full text, a total of 25 articles were included in this meta-analysis. A prespecified protocol registered at INPLASY was followed (INPLASY202450066). Due to the high heterogeneity, we performed subgroup analyses and meta-regression based on patient characteristics, complications, clinical biochemical indicators, coronary artery lesion, and CAD classification. Publication bias was assessed using Egger’s linear regression tests, Begg’s rank correlation tests, and funnel plots.

Results

The results showed that the patient with CAD had significantly lower circulating CTRP9 levels than the control group (Z = 3.26, P = 0.001). Subgroup analysis and meta-regression findings demonstrated that observed heterogeneity could be attributed to population distribution. Patient characteristics (year of publication, patients’ age, and BMI), complications (diabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)), clinical biochemical indicators, coronary artery lesion (stability of coronary atherosclerotic plaque, and the number of diseased coronary vessels), and classification of CAD were not identified as source of heterogeneity.

Conclusions

The meta-analysis confirmed that circulating CTRP9 levels in CAD patients are significantly lower than those in patients without CAD. The association may be modified by the population distribution.
Unlocking the Interplay among Financial Capability, Risk-taking Ability and Financial Well-being: Insights from Women in Sri Lanka
Authors: Neruja S. , Harishanthan S.
Published: November 2024

Aims: The present empirical study sought to investigate the interconnections among financial capability, risk-taking ability, and financial well-being for women from a Sri Lankan perspective.
Methodology: the study follows a quantitative deductive methodology. The study sample includes working women who belong to the formal sector in Sri Lanka and the respondents were selected using a purposive sampling method. Data were gathered from 198 participants through an online survey utilizing Google Forms. The study employed descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and PROCESS Macro regression models to test the hypotheses.
Results and Conclusion: The study found significant relationships between women's financial capability, risk-taking ability, and financial well-being. Furthermore, it was also established that risk-taking ability partially mediates the relationship between financial capability and financial well-being.
Practical Implications: The findings of a study highlight that, by fostering a balance between financial capability and responsible risk-taking, practitioners can better equip individuals to make informed financial decisions which in turn improves the long-term financial well-being of employed women.
Originality: This is one of the first studies in financial well-being literature, that investigates the mediating role of risk-taking ability on the financial well-being of women in the context of Sri Lanka where a majority of the studies focus on the respondents in general while ignoring the risk component.
Analysis of Plankton Abundance, Diversity and Dominance along the Siddo Coast in Barru Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Idris Andi Puspa Sari
Published: November 2024

This research aims to determine the level of abundance, diversity, uniformity, and dominance of plankton in the waters of Siddo Beach, Barru Regency. The research was carried out at three research locations, namely location 1, namely the hatchery location and Siddo Beach Bay; location 2, namely the location around the pier and mangroves; and location 3, namely the location around the community settlement in Toe hamlet, Barru Regency. Plankton in this location needs to be researched because there are many environmental forces that can disrupt the existence of plankton. Analisis plankton dilaksanakan di Laboratorium Kimia dan Air Politeknik Pertanian Negeri Pangkep. Data selanjutnya dianalisis dengan analisis deskriptif. The results showed that the abundance of plankton at location 1 was highest for plankton of the Navicula sp type; at location 2, the highest was for plankton of the Oscilatoria sp type; and the abundance of plankton at location 3 was highest for plankton of the type Acartia sp. The average diversity of plankton at the research location is in the range of 0.1526795-0.20716, the uniformity of plankton at the research location is in the range 0.06144279-0.10646145, and the dominance of plankton at location 1 is highest in Cosconidiscus sp type plankton, location 2 is dominated by Oscilatoria sp type plankton, and location 3 is dominated by plankton of the Acartis sp type. Thus, there is no type of plankton that has the highest abundance and dominance for all research locations.
The Role of Synaptic Dysfunction as a Key Driver in Autism Pathogenesis
Authors: Bittmann Stefan
Published: November 2024

Autism in childhood is a heterogeneous disease with around 110 phenotypes. Around 800 genes are affiliated with autism including members of neuro-ligand, neurexin, cadherin, GABA receptors, SHANK gene families, mutated UBE3 A on chromosome 15 and SNORD 116 precursor interaction. A predominant 4:1 male to female ratio is found in autistic spectrum disorder. 50 per cent of all autistic children show chromosome deletions and duplications, these are often found on the 15th and 16th chromosome. Copy number repeat variants in DNA are also well described in pathogenesis of autism patients. There is an overlap with other neurodevelopmental syndromes like tuberous sclerosis, Williams-syndrome, Phelan McDermid syndrome and Sphrintzen syndrome. The hypothesis of the term “atypical connectivity” in different brain regions with partial under- and overconnectivity with reduced brain networking at the psychosocial level was described. Different hypothesis about the origin of autism in children were described. The hypothesis of early lack of basic trust, mercury intoxication and different aspects concerning the origin of this extraordinary disease of 2 percent of children were stated but not confirmed to date. Especially low immature production of IgF-1 by oligodendrocytes in the corpus callosum leads to slowing of the PI3K/AKT chain activation of myelination that Ig-F1 could play an important role in the origin of the disease. Synaptic dysfunction with hypomyelination and impaired impulse transmission seem to play an extraordinary role with under- and overconnectivity with reduced brain networking at the psychosocial level in autistic children. Functional underconnectivity is found in 5 different brain areas, prefrontal, parieto-occipital, motor, somatosensory and the temporal region. Functional overconnectivity is often present in temporo-thalamic regions. Recent research shed light on synaptic dysfunctions with disrupted normal impulse signaling. In this review the different neurochemical findings and the correlation of synaptic dysfunction in autistic children will be closely evaluated.
Avulsion – Reimplantation Case Reports
Authors: Nazneen Dr. Amina H , TV Dr. Anupam Kumar , Bindu Dr. A B , A.J Dr. Jubna
Published: November 2024

Avulsion is a rare but serious dental injury which requires quick and careful treatment. This case report shows how avulsed maxillary incisors were successfully replanted, even after being outside the mouth for 120 minutes and stored in tap water. Two 12-year-old boys suffered dental injuries to their front teeth due to falls. After examining them, the avulsed teeth were replanted following the guidelines from the International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT) and were stabilized with a splint. Both patients underwent planned root canal treatment. Follow-up checks at one, three, six, and twelve months showed no issues, and X-rays confirmed no signs of tooth resorption
Nurses, Knowledge Regarding Pressure Ulcer At Tertiary Level Hospital In Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Akter Mst. Runa , Yeasmin Most. Sabina , Akter Hasina , Begum Mst. Beauty , Begum Anowara
Published: November 2024

Background: Pressure Ulcer is one of the chief complications of prolonged hospitalization patients, it occurs when localized tissue gets deprived of circulation due to soft tissue compressed between external surfaces and bony prominence for a prolonged time. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the level of nurses’ knowledge regarding pressure ulcer at tertiary level hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Method: A descriptive type of cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2023 to June 2024 among 50 senior staff nurses who were selected by convenient sampling technique. Data was collected by a structured knowledgebased questionnaire regarding Pressure Ulcer. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages and mean). Results: The mean age of respondents was 35 years. The overall nurses’ knowledge was very good 82.4%, 4% had below average knowledge, 4% had average knowledge, 18% had excellent knowledge, 26% had good knowledge regarding pressure ulcer among nurses. Higher professional qualifications significantly influenced the knowledge of respondents on pressure ulcer. The level of total knowledge score of B.Sc. in Nursing and B.Sc. in Public Health Nursing (Post Basic) respondents was 82.75% whereas Diploma in Nursing Science and Midwifery was 82.5%. Conclusion: On the basis of findings, the study provides suggestions to prioritize training programs in raising the level of nurses’ knowledge regarding pressure ulcer prevention in terms of providing quality care to manage and prevent pressure ulcer.
Effectiveness Of Oropharyngeal Exercises For Obstructive Sleep Apnea In Sedentary 45-Year-Old Adult: A Case Report
Authors: Prabhu Dr. D. Vignesh , Vijayaraj Prof. Dr. V. , Prashitha Ms.V.S.
Published: November 2024

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common condition characterized by repeated episodes of airway obstruction during sleep. Traditional treatments include CPAP and lifestyle modifications. This case report explores the effectiveness of Oropharyngeal exercises in a sedentary 45-year-old adult with OSA. Case Presentation: A 45-year-old sedentary male with moderate OSA underwent a regimen of Oropharyngeal exercises over a 12-week period. Intervention: The patient performed daily Oropharyngeal exercises designed to strengthen the upper airway muscles. Outcome Measures: Improvement was assessed using the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and subjective sleep quality. Results: After 12 weeks, there was a significant reduction in AHI, improvement in ESS scores, and enhanced subjective sleep quality. Conclusion: Oropharyngeal exercises may be a viable adjunctive treatment for OSA, particularly in sedentary individuals. Further research with larger samples is needed to confirm these findings
Intricate crosstalk between MYC and non‐coding RNAs regulates hallmarks of cancer
Authors: Swier Lotteke J. Y. M. , Dzikiewicz‐Krawczyk Agnieszka , Winkle Melanie , van den Berg Anke , Kluiver Joost
Published: November 2018

Myelocytomatosis viral oncogene homolog (MYC) plays an important role in the regulation of many cellular processes, and its expression is tightly regulated at the level of transcription, translation, protein stability, and activity. Despite this tight regulation, MYC is overexpressed in many cancers and contributes to multiple hallmarks of cancer. In recent years, it has become clear that noncoding RNAs add a crucial additional layer to the regulation of MYC and its downstream effects. So far, twenty‐five microRNAs and eighteen long noncoding RNAs that regulate MYC have been identified. Thirty‐three miRNAs and nineteen lncRNAs are downstream effectors of MYC that contribute to the broad oncogenic role of MYC, including its effects on diverse hallmarks of cancer. In this review, we give an overview of this extensive, multilayered noncoding RNA network that exists around MYC. Current data clearly show explicit roles of crosstalk between MYC and ncRNAs to allow tumorigenesis.
Multiplexed In Vivo Imaging Using Size‐Controlled Quantum Dots in the Second Near‐Infrared Window
Authors: Jeong Sanghwa , Jung Yebin , Bok Seoyeon , Ryu Yeon‐Mi , Lee Sumin , Kim Young‐Eun , Song Jaejung , Kim Miyeon , Kim Sang‐Yeob , Ahn G‐One , Kim Sungjee
Published: November 2018

PbS/CdS core/shell quantum dots (QDs) that emit at the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm) window are synthesized. The PbS seed size and CdS shell thicknesses are carefully controlled to produce bright and narrow fluorescence that are suitable for multiplexing. A polymer encapsulation yields polymer‐encapsulated NIR‐II QDs (PQDs), which provides the QDs with long‐term fluorescence stability over a week in biological media. Exploiting the simple bioconjugation capability of PQDs, folic acids are conjugated to PQDs that can efficiently label folate receptor overexpressing cell lines. The PQDs afford multiplexed and nearly real‐time longitudinal whole‐body in vivo imaging. Two NIR‐II QD probes are prepared: folic acid‐conjugated PQDs (FA‐PQDs) emitting at 1280 nm and unconjugated PQDs emitting at 1080 nm. The two PQDs are engineered to have compact and similar hydrodynamic sizes. A mixture of the folic acid‐conjugated PQD and unconjugated PQDs is injected intravenously into a tumor‐xenografted mouse, and the signals from them are monitored. This NIR‐II whole‐body imaging with the two PQDs provides precise evaluation of the active ligand‐assisted tumor‐targeting capability of the FA‐PQD probe because the hydrodynamic size control of the two PQDs effectively eliminates effects from the size‐dependent accumulations by permeations and retentions in tumors.
Electronic and Optical Properties of 2D Transition Metal Carbides and Nitrides (MXenes)
Authors: Hantanasirisakul Kanit , Gogotsi Yury
Published: November 2018

2D transition metal carbides, carbonitrides, and nitrides, known as MXenes, are a rapidly growing family of 2D materials with close to 30 members experimentally synthesized, and dozens more studied theoretically. They exhibit outstanding electronic, optical, mechanical, and thermal properties with versatile transition metal and surface chemistries. They have shown promise in many applications, such as energy storage, electromagnetic interference shielding, transparent electrodes, sensors, catalysis, photothermal therapy, etc. The high electronic conductivity and wide range of optical absorption properties of MXenes are the key to their success in the aforementioned applications. However, relatively little is currently known about their fundamental electronic and optical properties, limiting their use to their full potential. Here, MXenes' electronic and optical properties from both theoretical and experimental perspectives, as well as applications related to those properties, are discussed, providing a guide for researchers who are exploring those properties of MXenes.
An Ultrasensitive and Ultraselective Hydrogen Sensor Based on Defect‐Dominated Electron Scattering in Pt Nanowire Arrays
Authors: Cao Fan , Zhao Pengfei , Wang Zhao , Zhang Xianghui , Zheng He , Wang Jianbo , Zhou Di , Hu Yongming , Gu Haoshuang
Published: November 2018

The detection of hydrogen gas has attracted extensive attention due to its wide applications. Here, ultrathin Pt nanowires (3.5 nm) with abundant defects are fabricated by focused ion beam (FIB) for hydrogen detection. Different from the surface‐dominated scattering in previous reports where the resistance of Pt decreases after hydrogenation, the Pt hydrogen sensor prepared by FIB is based on defect‐dominated electron scattering owing to the abundant defects, i.e., the resistance is dominated by defect scattering, while H atoms will diffuse along the defects and thus enhance the electron scattering and resistance. Thanks to the small volume of H atoms (easy to diffuse along defects), the sensor is very sensitive and selective to hydrogen and exhibits fast response–recovery properties. Moreover, the sensitivity can be improved after the response–recovery loops, which may be ascribed to the generation of extra defects (further accelerating H atom diffusion). After response in pure H2 and recovery in air, the sensor has an ultralow limit of detection (for H2 in air) of 10 ppb. The results present a hydrogen sensor with superior sensitivity and selectivity, which would not only facilitate the development of metal hydrogen sensors, but also provide a feasible strategy for hydrogen detection.
Recent Advances in Metal‐Catalyzed Bond‐Forming Reactions of Ketene S,S‐Acetals
Authors: Xu Cong , Wang Mang , Liu Qun
Published: November 2018

The readily available ketene S,S‐acetals (ketene dithioacetals) are useful building blocks for the construction of a wide range of organic molecules and natural products. This review attempts to summarize the recent advances in the field of ketene dithioacetal chemistry since 2012, especially metal‐catalyzed/metal‐mediated bond‐forming reactions with the emphasis on the catalysts and reaction modes based on their unique structural features. Discussions on the reaction mechanisms and the applications of the developed methods in synthesis are also included with personal comments in some cases.

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Using Carbon Dioxide as a Building Block in Continuous Flow Synthesis
Authors: Seo Hyowon , Nguyen Long V. , Jamison Timothy F.
Published: November 2018

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an attractive building block for organic synthesis that is environmentally friendly. Continuous flow technologies have enabled C−O and C−C bond forming reactions with CO2 that previously were either low‐yielding or impossible in batch to afford value‐added chemicals. This review describes recent advances in continuous flow as an enabling strategy in utilizing CO2 as a C1 building block in chemical synthesis.

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Rational Design and Construction of Cocatalysts for Semiconductor‐Based Photo‐Electrochemical Oxygen Evolution: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Xu Xiao‐Ting , Pan Lun , Zhang Xiangwen , Wang Li , Zou Ji‐Jun
Published: November 2018

Photo‐electrochemical (PEC) water splitting, as an essential and indispensable research branch of solar energy applications, has achieved increasing attention in the past decades. Between the two photoelectrodes, the photoanodes for PEC water oxidation are mostly studied for the facile selection of n‐type semiconductors. Initially, the efficiency of the PEC process is rather limited, which mainly results from the existing drawbacks of photoanodes such as instability and serious charge‐carrier recombination. To improve PEC performances, researchers gradually focus on exploring many strategies, among which engineering photoelectrodes with suitable cocatalysts is one of the most feasible and promising methods to lower reaction obstacles and boost PEC water splitting ability. Here, the basic principles, modules of the PEC system, evaluation parameters in PEC water oxidation reactions occurring on the surface of photoanodes, and the basic functions of cocatalysts on the promotion of PEC performance are demonstrated. Then, the key progress of cocatalyst design and construction applied to photoanodes for PEC oxygen evolution is emphatically introduced and the influences of different kinds of water oxidation cocatalysts are elucidated in detail. Finally, the outlook of highly active cocatalysts for the photosynthesis process is also included.
Substrate‐Wide Confined Shear Alignment of Carbon Nanotubes for Thin Film Transistors
Authors: Jinkins Katherine R. , Chan Jason , Jacobberger Robert M. , Berson Arganthaël , Arnold Michael S.
Published: November 2018

To exploit their charge transport properties in transistors, semiconducting carbon nanotubes must be assembled into aligned arrays comprised of individualized nanotubes at optimal packing densities. However, achieving this control on the wafer‐scale is challenging. Here, solution‐based shear in substrate‐wide, confined channels is investigated to deposit continuous films of well‐aligned, individualized, semiconducting nanotubes. Polymer‐wrapped nanotubes in organic ink are forced through sub‐mm tall channels, generating shear up to 10 000 s−1 uniformly aligning nanotubes across substrates. The ink volume and concentration, channel height, and shear rate dependencies are elucidated. Optimized conditions enable alignment within a ±32° window, at 50 nanotubes µm−1, on 10 × 10 cm2 substrates. Transistors (channel length of 1–5 µm) are fabricated parallel and perpendicular to the alignment. The parallel transistors perform with 7× faster charge carrier mobility (101 and 49 cm2 V−1 s−1 assuming array and parallel‐plate capacitances, respectively) with high on/off ratio of 105. The spatial uniformity varies ±10% in density, ±2° in alignment, and ±7% in mobility. Deposition occurs within seconds per wafer, and further substrate scaling is viable. Compared to random networks, aligned nanotube films promise to be a superior platform for applications including sensors, flexible/stretchable electronics, and light emitting and harvesting devices.
Next generation sequencing‐based molecular diagnosis in familial congenital cataract expands the mutational spectrum in known congenital cataract genes
Authors: Astiazarán Mirena C. , García‐Montaño Leopoldo A. , Sánchez‐Moreno Francisco , Matiz‐Moreno Humberto , Zenteno Juan C.
Published: November 2018

Congenital cataract (CC) is a significant cause of childhood blindness worldwide. CC is a genetically heterogeneous disease because mutations in over 40 genes have been demonstrated to cause the disorder and up to 40% of cases arise from single‐gene mutations. Hence, next generation sequencing (NGS) of deoxyribonucleic acid is a suitable approach for CC molecular diagnosis. In this study, we used commercially available inherited disease NGS panels including 50 CC genes for the genetic diagnosis of 11 probands with hereditary CC. Causal variants were recognized in six families. A novel CRYGC variant, p.(Phe6Ser), was identified in two apparently unrelated families. Two additional novel variants in the crystallin genes CRYBB2 (p.[Gly149Asp]) and CRYGA (p.[Arg48Cys]) were also identified. One family carried the novel p.[Gly8_Leu11del] variant in GJA8, while another family exhibited the previously reported c.2826‐9G>A pathogenic change in EPHA2. Our results illustrate the utility of NGS for diagnosing CC in our population, and our results contribute to expand the mutational spectrum with four novel pathogenic variants in known CC genes.
An additional case of Hennekam lymphangiectasia–lymphedema syndrome caused by loss‐of‐function mutation in ADAMTS3
Authors: Scheuerle Angela E. , Sweed Nathan T. , Timmons Charles F. , Smith Erica D. , Alcaraz Wendy A. , Shinde Deepali N.
Published: November 2018

Hennekam lymphangiectasia–lymphedema syndrome (HKLLS) is a genetically heterogeneous lymphatic dysplasia with characteristic of facial dysmorphism, neurocognitive impairments, and abnormalities of the pericardium, intestinal tract, and extremities. It is an autosomal recessive condition caused by biallelic mutations in CCBE1 (collagen‐ and calcium‐binding epidermal growth factor domain‐containing protein 1) (HKLLS1; OMIM 235510) or FAT4 (HKLLS2; OMIM 616006). CCBE1 acts via ADAMTS3 (a disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin motifs‐3 protease) to enhance vascular endothelial growth factor C signaling. There is report of one family supporting mutations in ADAMTS3 as causative for the phenotype labeled as HKLLS3. Here, we report an additional case of HKLLS that appears to be associated with homozygous nonsense mutation of ADAMTS3.
Microphthalmia is not a mandatory finding in X‐linked recessive syndromic microphthalmia caused by the recurrent BCOR variant p.Pro85Leu
Authors: Kraus Cornelia , Uebe Steffen , Thiel Christian T. , Ekici Arif B. , Reis André , Zweier Christiane
Published: November 2018

Mutations in BCOR cause X‐linked dominant and X‐linked recessive forms of syndromic microphthalmia. By exome sequencing, we identified the recurrent BCOR mutation p.Pro85Leu in two brothers and their unaffected mother. While the older brother's phenotype completely fits the described phenotypic spectrum of X‐linked recessive BCOR‐associated Lenz microphthalmia syndrome, the younger brother showed developmental delay, microcephaly, and skeletal anomalies, but not the key feature of microphthalmia. In contrast to the previously published families, our findings demonstrate a large variability of BCOR‐associated, syndromic phenotypes, indicating incomplete penetrance of p.Pro85Leu with regards to microphthalmia in males.
CNKSR1 gene defect can cause syndromic autosomal recessive intellectual disability
Authors: Kazeminasab Somayeh , Taskiran Ibrahim Ihsan , Fattahi Zohreh , Bazazzadegan Niloofar , Hosseini Masoumeh , Rahimi Maryam , Oladnabi Morteza , Haddadi Mohammad , Celik Arzu , Ropers Hans‐Hilger , Najmabadi Hossein , Kahrizi Kimia
Published: November 2018

The advent of high‐throughput sequencing technologies has led to an exponential increase in the identification of novel disease‐causing genes in highly heterogeneous diseases. A novel frameshift mutation in CNKSR1 gene was detected by Next‐Generation Sequencing (NGS) in an Iranian family with syndromic autosomal recessive intellectual disability (ARID). CNKSR1 encodes a connector enhancer of kinase suppressor of Ras 1, which acts as a scaffold component for receptor tyrosine kinase in mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades. CNKSR1 interacts with proteins which have already been shown to be associated with intellectual disability (ID) in the MAPK signaling pathway and promotes cell migration through RhoA‐mediated c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) activation. Lack of CNKSR1 transcripts and protein was observed in lymphoblastoid cells derived from affected patients using qRT–PCR and western blot analysis, respectively. Furthermore, RNAi‐mediated knockdown of cnk, the CNKSR1 orthologue in Drosophila melanogaster brain, led to defects in eye and mushroom body (MB) structures. In conclusion, our findings support the possible role of CNKSR1 in brain development which can lead to cognitive impairment.
Attitudinal support for violence against women: What a population‐level survey of the Australian community can and cannot tell us
Authors: Webster Kim , Ward Andrew , Diemer Kristin , Flood Michael , Powell Anastasia , Forster Kelleigh , Honey Nikki
Published: November 2018

Violence against women (VAW) is a serious and prevalent problem globally. Societal‐level norms, practices and structures are among the factors contributing to it, sometimes referred to collectively as representing “cultures of support” for VAW. Understanding factors contributing to these cultures is important for prevention, but remains the subject of debate. Population‐level surveys of attitudes toward VAW are one means to strengthen this understanding. Although there are a number of such surveys internationally, scholarly research based on secondary analysis of data, at least from surveys in high‐income countries, is scant. This article reports on new analyses of the Australian National Community Attitudes Towards Violence Against Women survey to explore its potential to further empirical and conceptual understanding of cultures of support for VAW. To facilitate this, a scale to measure attitudes toward VAW was developed post hoc from the survey (the Violence Supportive Attitudes, or VSA‐18, Scale). Subsequent analyses investigate the relationship between this scale and relevant demographic factors and a measure of attitudinal support for gender equality (GE). The GE measure, place of birth, employment and occupation, generation, education and sex contribute to variance in the VSA‐18 Scale. Findings are discussed in the context of theoretical debates and directions for future research.
Free Radical Reactivity of a Phosphaalkene Explored Through Studies of Radical Isotopologues
Authors: Chandrasena Lalangi , Samedov Kerim , McKenzie Iain , Mozafari Mina , West Robert , Gates Derek P. , Percival Paul W.
Published: November 2018

Muonium (Mu), an H atom analogue, is employed to probe the addition of free radicals to the P=C bond of a phosphaalkene. Specifically, two unprecedented muoniated free radicals, MesP.−CMu(Me)2 (1 a, minor product) and MesPMu−C.Me2 (1 b, major product), were detected by muon spin spectroscopy (μSR) when a solution of MesP=CMe2 (1: Mes=2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl) was exposed to a beam of positive muons (μ+). The μ+ serves as a source of Mu (that is, Mu=μ++e−). To confirm the identity of the major product 1 b, its spectral features were compared to its isotopologue, MesPH‐C.(Me)CH2Mu (2 a). Conveniently, 2 a is the sole product of the reaction of MesPH(CMe=CH2) (2) with Mu. For all observed radicals, muon, proton, and phosphorus hyperfine coupling constants were determined by μSR and compared to DFT‐calculated values.
Aggregation Behavior of a Six‐Membered Cyclic Frustrated Phosphane/Borane Lewis Pair: Formation of a Supramolecular Cyclooctameric Macrocyclic Ring System
Authors: Jie Xiaoming , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Knitsch Robert , Hansen Michael Ryan , Eckert Hellmut , Ehlert Sebastian , Grimme Stefan , Kehr Gerald , Erker Gerhard
Published: November 2018

A new six‐membered cyclic frustrated phosphane/borane Lewis pair was liberated from its HB(C6F5)2 adduct by treatment with vinylcyclohexane. The system is an active frustrated Lewis pair that undergoes cycloaddition reactions with suitable π reagents and it splits dihydrogen. At room temperature in solution the new compound is a monomer, however, in the crystal and in solution at low temperature it aggregates to a thermodynamically favoured supramolecular macrocyclic cyclooctamer.
Building from Ga‐Porphyrins: Synthesis of Ga‐Acetylide Complexes Using Acetylenes and Polyynes
Authors: Walter Vroni , Gao Yueze , Grzegorzek Norbert , Krempe Maximilian , Hampel Frank , Jux Norbert , Tykwinski Rik R.
Published: November 2018

Multidimensional, conjugated building blocks have been formed through the axial coordination of polyynes to the central Ga atom of tetraarylporphyrins. Electron deficient pentafluorophenyl substituents in the meso‐positions provide more stable σ‐acetylide complexes to Ga than analogous structures with tert‐butylphenyl groups. Mono‐, di‐, and triynes have been used, including a pyridyl endcapped diyne that allows for formation of porphyrin triads through coordination of the pyridyl ligand to a Ru porphyrin.
C−H Functionalization of Commodity Polymers
Authors: Williamson Jill B. , Lewis Sally E. , Johnson Robert R. , Manning Irene M. , Leibfarth Frank A.
Published: November 2018

Synthetic manipulation of polymer substrates is one of the oldest and most reliable methods to increase the functional diversity of soft materials. Modifying the chemical structure of polymers that are already produced on a commodity scale leverages the current high‐volume and low‐cost production of commodity plastics for the discovery of modern materials. A myriad of polymer C−H functionalization methods have been developed which enable the modification of material properties on both a laboratory and industrial scale. More recently, driven by advances in C−H activation, photoredox catalysis, and radical chemistry, chemoselective approaches have emerged as a means to impart precise functionality onto commodity polymer substrates. This Review discusses the historical significance of and contemporary advances in the C−H functionalization of commodity polymers. The conceptual approach outlined herein presents exciting new directions for the field, including increasing the value of otherwise pervasive materials, uncovering entirely new material properties, and a viable path to upcycle post‐consumer plastic waste.
Procambarus clarkii (Girard, 1852) and crayfish plague as new threats for biodiversity in Indonesia
Authors: Putra Marfian Dwidima , Bláha Martin , Wardiatno Yusli , Krisanti Majariana , Yonvitner  , Jerikho Rikho , Kamal Mohammad Mukhlis , Mojžišová Michaela , Bystřický Pavel Karel , Kouba Antonín , Kalous Lukáš , Petrusek Adam , Patoka Jiří
Published: November 2018

Numerous freshwater crayfish species are known to become successful invaders when introduced to new territories. One of the most invasive species in this group is the red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii (Girard, 1852). In addition to other characteristics facilitating its invasiveness, it is also a vector of crayfish plague, a disease mostly lethal to crayfish of non‐North American origin.

Procambarus clarkii, at present the most widespread crayfish species globally, is popular in many countries both for human consumption and as an ornamental animal. An established population of this species was documented for the first time within Indonesia, representing the first record for maritime Southeast Asia. The species is also common in the local ornamental pet trade.

Infection by the crayfish plague pathogen Aphanomyces astaci Schikora was confirmed both in the outdoor population of P. clarkii and in one of the surveyed pet shops. Furthermore, A. astaci was detected in specimens of freshwater crab and shrimp species coexisting with P. clarkii.

Local climatic conditions and the species temperature requirements suggest a high probability of the establishment of P. clarkii in Indonesia. Its further spread could irreversibly damage populations of many native endemic crustaceans in the country (as well as elsewhere in the region), and the thriving local aquacultures of the redclaw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus (von Martens, 1868) may also be threatened.

The total ban of P. clarkii and other crayfish species of North American origin in Indonesia is strongly recommended, especially considering that aquaculture and trade with Australasian species is a viable alternative option.
Measuring Participation in Distance Education Online Discussion Forums Using Social Network Analysis
Authors: da Silva Luiz Fernando Cal , Barbosa Marcelo Werneck , Gomes Rodrigo Richard
Published: November 2018

Distance Education professionals have been constantly coming up with methods and techniques to increase student participation in an environment where learning happens continuously and asynchronously. An online discussion forum (ODF) is one of these mechanisms, but it will only be successful if students are willing to participate. Stimulating students is a challenge many institutions currently face. The objective of this study was to analyze the social interaction among participants in ODFs using Social Network Analysis. Knowing the characteristics of these networks and its participants is important to design actions to improve the use of ODFs. As a case study, data were collected from ODF logs of the majors in Business Administration and Accounting in a Brazilian private university. This study found out that these interaction networks are sparse, which shows that students could be more engaged in interacting and collaborating with others. Students, in general, tend to interact more in the first semester and interaction diminishes as time passes. The number of active ODF participants has been around 45–50%, which shows that students currently do not participate very often in ODFs. Their main incentive seems to exist when they are graded. Popular ODFs were also analyzed.