bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Mathematics Perception through Drawing: An Online Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (OIPA) Study
Authors: Koca Aygen Koç
Published: October 2023

In this study, it is aimed to reveal the images formed in the minds of high school students about the concept of mathematics with the help of their own expressions and drawings. In this qualitative study, the core of 100 high school students’ experiences of math was examined with a holistic approach using Online Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (OIPA). In order to obtain in-depth information about the concept of math from the participants, the purposeful sampling method was used. It was paid full attention to ensure that the participants were high school students. The data were obtained by using the OIPA form, which allows students to create stories and drawings about the concept of math. The data obtained were analyzed in three stages by the researcher and an expert psychologist. As a result of the analysis, it was seen that there were deficiencies in students’ mathematical literacy in situations such as understanding the role of mathematics in daily life and using it to solve real life problems. Additionally, the students expressed the concept of math using 18 different main themes, most of which contained negative strong emotions. Students associated math most frequently with the themes of life (44%) and difficult math language (38%). The students associated math least frequently with the themes of hate (5%) and unimportant (5%). On the other hand, students explained the math domain with individual factors (74%) the most and exosystem (15%) the least. In line with the results obtained in the study, a few recommendations were made.
Effects of Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) Training Program on Thai Pre-Service Teachers’ Knowledge of CLIL Approach, CLIL Material Design, and CLIL Teaching
Authors: Charunsri Kamonwan , Sripicharn Passapong
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to explore the effects of the Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) training program on Thai pre-service teachers’ knowledge of CLIL approach, CLIL material design and CLIL teaching and their opinions toward the training program. A mix-method with a quasi-experimental study was employed in this research. The sample consisted of 14 pre-service Social Studies teachers from a university in Bangkok, Thailand. Data collection tools of the research included an achievement test, a questionnaire and an interview. A non-parametric statistical hypothesis test was used to assess quantitative data. Results revealed that the pre-service teachers’ knowledge of CLIL approach, CLIL material design and CLIL teaching improved with a statistically significant difference. The results also revealed that the pre-service teachers had favorable opinions toward the training program when it comes to training program, learning experiences, CLIL material design, and CLIL teaching. It was concluded that the CLIL training program could have a favorable effect on pre-service teachers. As a result, it was recommended that more CLIL programs be developed and provided to pre-service teachers.
Interview with Emre Hasan Akbayrak, Library Director, Atılım University
Authors: Lo Patrick
Published: October 2023

Atilim University (AU) was founded in 1996 with the mission to “provide quality education, produces science and technology, conducts research and enlightens the future of Turkey.” AU currently ranks 4th among the Turkish Universities in Times Higher Education (THE) World Universities on the basis of research, education, internationalization and industrial income.
Pre-Service Turkish Language Teachers’ Anxiety and Attitudes Toward Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Eyüp Bircan , Kayhan Selvanur
Published: October 2023

The present study aims to determine the anxiety and attitudes of pre-service Turkish language teachers towards artificial intelligence and to examine the relationship between the two. The sample group of the study, which was based on a correlational survey design, consisted of 232 pre-service Turkish language teachers studying at 14 different universities in different provinces of Türkiye. The study data were collected using the ‘Personal Information Form’, the ‘Artificial Intelligence Anxiety Scale’ and the ‘General Attitudes toward Artificial Intelligence Scale’. SPSS 23.0 package program was used for data analysis. Based on the findings, it was determined that the pre-service Turkish language teachers’ positive and negative attitudes towards artificial intelligence were at moderate levels while their anxiety was below moderate levels in the learning dimension, but above moderate levels in the dimensions of job replacement, sociotechnical blindness and artificial intelligence configuration. The relationship between anxiety and attitudes towards artificial intelligence was found to be negatively significant. It was determined that the variables of gender and time spent on the internet did not make a significant difference on the pre-service teachers’ anxiety and attitudes towards artificial intelligence. However, although there was no difference between the pre-service language teachers’ attitudes towards artificial intelligence in terms of grade level, differences were observed in the job replacement and sociotechnical blindness dimensions of anxiety.
What does PISA Assess in Reading Literacy? Misconceptions and Misuses
Authors: Tağa Tahir
Published: October 2023

In the 21st century, international interaction in social, economic, cultural, and educational fields has increased. Consequently, international standards have become essential in national education policies, reforms, and practices. As an international assessment, PISA has started to function as a prominent tool in this regard. However, the impact of PISA differs across the participating countries, depending on how the concept, methodology, and practices are handled. One of the domains where this difference is seen is reading literacy. Although this domain expresses a broader and richer phenomenon, the content and scope of the concept are not accurately understood, and its influences vary across the participating countries. In Türkiye, reading literacy is mainly considered and discussed in the scope of Turkish language lessons. This perspective, which focuses on the Turkish language lessons, leads to misunderstanding of the issue and the inaccurate change and transformation of the curriculum and content. Attempting to succeed in this domain through test language lessons deepens the problems instead of solving them. In this article, misconceptions and misuses about reading literacy are explained based on a literature review, and it is pointed out that reading literacy should be addressed in a broader context, including the curricula of other subjects, rather than test language lessons.
La influencia de la efectiva organización en la competitividad y desempeño de las MiPymes
Authors: García-Landero Cristina , Tosca-Vidal Carlos Mauricio , Moreno Elizabeth García
Published: October 2023

Las organizaciones se enfrentan a situaciones de mercado cada vez más competitivas, lo cual genera desafíos para asegurar su permanencia, la efectiva organización tiene relevancia en la competitividad para mejorar su desempeño, desde el punto de vista de los recursos humanos existen métodos que coadyuvan en la generación de mejores resultados en las organizaciones. El objetivo de esta investigación es determinar las estrategias para generar una efectiva organización que otorgue herramientas de competitividad a las organizaciones y esto impacte en su desempeño. La metodología utilizada tiene un enfoque cualitativo con una técnica documental a través del método prisma, donde se analizaron los artículos científicos de las bases de datos. La estructura organizativa, ampliamente establecida por diversos autores ha demostrado su aplicabilidad en el contexto de las MiPymes. Se ha evidenciado que una estructura organizativa bien definida, que considere la flexibilidad y la adaptabilidad, permite a estas empresas definir roles, responsabilidades y procesos, mejorando así la comunicación interna, la toma de decisiones y la coordinación. Esto se traduce directamente en una mejora de la calidad del producto y la competitividad en el mercado. Se concluye El modelo AMO y los HPWS sugieren grandes desafíos a seguir estudiando. El fomento a investigaciones más profundas sobre cómo los sistemas de control afectan el desempeño de los trabajadores aclararía y mejoraría áreas como los mecanismos que mejoran el desempeño; y cómo las estrategias de la empresa y sus objetivos influyen en los trabajadores y la manera en la que perciben estos modelos.
Lanthanum-substituted Cobalt Ferrite Established by the Co-precipitation Process: Annealing Temperature Adjustment of Structural, Magnetic, and Dye Removal Characteristics
Authors: Rahmawati Ramadona , Musadewi Adiana , Prasetya Nurdiyantoro Putra , Suharno Suharno , Budiawanti Sri , Rahardjo Dwi Teguh , Riyatun Riyatun , Utari Utari , Iriani Yofentina , Nuryani Nuryani , Purnama Budi
Published: October 2023

Co-precipitation process was used for the synthesis of lanthanum-substituted cobalt ferrite nanoparticles at several annealing temperatures (Ta), i.e., 200 °C, 300 °C, and 400 °C, for 5 h. XRD spectral depicted that the produced nanoparticles sample indicates a single phase of fcc inverse spinel conforming to ICDD No 22-1086. The crystallite size (D) calculation at the strongest peaks shows the increase in enhancing the Ta i.e., 18.99 nm, 19.90 nm, and 23.21 nm for 200 °C, 300 °C, and 400 °C, respectively. The FTIR results showed absorption band at the tetrahedral site, v1 ~575 cm−1 and the octahedral site, v2 ~474 cm−1. The absorption bands indicate that the lanthanum ions have successfully replaced the Fe3+ cations in the original cobalt ferrite structure. According to the hysteresis loop, the coercive field's (HC) magnitude falls from 700 Oe down to 550 Oe as Ta increases. This result is consistent with the anisotropy constant which decreased from 0.77×104 erg/cm3 to 0.56×104 erg/cm3. The obtained nanoparticles also showed superior performance (much larger than 95%) for dye removal of Congo red. Copyright © 2023 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Convergent Paired Electrolysis for the Synthesis of Pyrazolyl‐Substituted Tetrahydroisoquinolines
Authors: Kong Yanyan , Huang Mengmeng , Li Yabo , Keun Kim Jung , Gong Ming , Wu Yangjie
Published: October 2023

A convergent paired electrolysis method for the synthesis of 1‐pyrazolyl‐substituted tetrahydroisoquinolines has been developed. The reaction proceeded without any transition metal catalyst and chemical oxidant. The desired products could be isolated in high yields (80–99%) in 60–80 minutes. The Faradaic efficiency was 108% and gram‐scale synthesis (84%) could be carried out. Mechanistic studies revealed that the C−N bond formation process might mainly involve a nucleophilic addition reaction.
Synthesis of Diverse Allylsilanes Employing Brønsted Acid Catalyzed Reductive Functionalization
Authors: Leonard Elisabeth L. R. , Akien Geoffrey R. , Britten Thomas K. , Kazi Nahin , Roberts Dean D. , McLaughlin Mark G.
Published: October 2023

We present a rapid (0.25–1 h), method to produce functionalised allylsilanes from readily available vinylsilanes. Employing a Brønsted acid catalysed dehydration as the key step, allylsilanes are produced in good yields (22–98%) and, in most cases, as a single geometric isomer. Furthermore, a possible allylation‐Cope pathway was discovered for certain substrates and attempts to optimise this are described.
Bi(OTf)3‐catalyzed Intermolecular Cyclization of Phenols with Allylic Alcohols
Authors: Minakawa Maki , Sato Syuya
Published: October 2023

The intermolecular cyclization of phenols with a small excess of allylic alcohols in the presence of a Bi(OTf)3 catalyst under air without any additives afforded the corresponding O‐containing heterocyclic compounds. Bi(OTf)3‐catalyzed intermolecular cyclization of phenols with 3‐methylbut‐2‐en‐1‐ol gave the corresponding O‐containing 6‐membered ring; chroman derivatives (16 varieties). The catalytic intermolecular cyclization of phenols with 2‐methylprop‐2‐en‐1‐ol led to the corresponding O‐containing 5‐membered ring; naphtho‐ or benzofurans (5 varieties). The intermolecular catalytic cyclization of 2,3,5,6‐trimethylbenzene‐1,4‐diol with a small excess of phytols produced vitamin E (DL‐α‐tocopherol) in excellent yields under mild reaction conditions.
Tailoring Electrochemical CO2 Reduction on Copper by Reactive Ionic Liquid and Native Hydrogen Bond Donors
Authors: Coskun Oguz Kagan , Dongare Saudagar , Doherty Brian , Klemm Aidan , Tuckerman Mark , Gurkan Burcu
Published: October 2023

Electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2RR) on copper (Cu) shows promise for higher‐value products beyond CO. However, challenges such as the limited CO2 solubility, high overpotentials, and the competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in aqueous electrolytes hinder the practical realization. We propose a functionalized ionic liquid (IL) which generates ion‐CO2 adducts and a hydrogen bond donor (HBD) upon CO2 absorption to modulate CO2RR on Cu in a non‐aqueous electrolyte. As revealed by transient voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and in situ surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) complemented with image charge augmented quantum‐mechanical/molecular mechanics (IC‐QM/MM) computations, a unique microenvironment is constructed. In this microenvironment, the catalytic activity is primarily governed by the IL and HBD concentrations; former controlling the double layer thickness and the latter modulating the local proton availability. This translates to ample CO2 availability, reduced overpotential, and suppressed HER where C4 products are obtained. This study deepens the understanding of electrolyte effects in CO2RR and the role of IL ions towards electrocatalytic microenvironment design.
Chiral Auxiliary Approach for Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Cyclizations
Authors: Cataffo Andrea , Peña‐López Miguel , Pedrazzani Riccardo , Echavarren Antonio M.
Published: October 2023

Two different classes of stereoselective cyclizations have been developed using a chiral auxiliary approach with commercially available [JohnPhosAu(MeCN)SbF6] as catalyst. First, a stereoselective cascade cyclization of 1,5‐enynes was achieved using the Oppolzer camphorsultam as chiral auxiliary. In this case, a one‐pot cyclization‐hydrolysis sequence was developed to directly afford enantioenriched spirocyclic ketones. Then, the stereoselective alkoxycyclization of 1,6‐enynes was mediated by an Evans‐type oxazolidinone. A reduction‐hydrolysis sequence was selected to remove the auxiliary to give enantioenriched β‐tetralones. DFT studies confirmed that the steric clash between the chiral auxiliary and alkene accounts for the experimentally observed diastereoselective cyclization through the Si face.
ent‐Atisane Diterpenoids from Euphorbia helioscopia and Their Anti‐inflammatory Activities
Authors: Yang Hong‐Ying , Wen Mei‐Lian , Fu Shi‐Jing , Lu Yu‐Bo , Liu Ru‐Ling , Gao Kun , Chen Jian‐Jun
Published: October 2023

Phytochemical investigation on the anti‐inflammatory fraction extracted from the whole plant of Euphorbia helioscopia L. led to the isolation of three new ent‐atisane diterpenoids (1–3) and five known analogues (4–8). The structures and absolute configurations of the new compounds were elucidated by comprehensive analysis of the NMR, MS, IR, ECD, and X‐ray crystallography. It is worth mentioning that compound 3 belongs to a rare class of ent‐atisane diterpenoid featuring a hydroxyl group at C‐9. Bioactivity investigation showed that compounds 4, 7, and 8 exhibited significant inhibitory effects on LPS‐induced NO production in a dose‐dependent manner, which indicates their anti‐inflammatory potential.
An inappropriately–appropriate ICD therapy: What is the mechanism and what interventions can be done?
Authors: Saplaouras Athanasios , Mililis Panagiotis , Kariki Ourania , Bazoukis George , Batsouli Athena , Antonakos Vasileios , Dragasis Stylianos , Patsiotis Ilias G. , Letsas Konstantinos P. , Efremidis Michael
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

R‐wave double counting is a rare cause of ventricular oversensing that can lead to inappropriate shocks. Optimizing device programming is essential for the avoidance of subsequent inappropriate therapies.

R‐wave double counting is a rare cause of ventricular oversensing that can lead to inappropriate shocks. We present the case of a female patient, 52‐years‐old with a history of end‐stage hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The patient suffered an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) shock. Cardiac device interrogation revealed ventricular tachycardia (VT) with a cycle length of 420 ms that was misclassified in the ventricular fibrillation (VF) zone owing to R‐wave double counting. Optimizing device programming is essential for the avoidance of subsequent inappropriate therapies. Possible therapeutic options are briefly presented in the case.
Tuberculosis manifesting with significant peripheral eosinophilia: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Damera Abhiram Rao , Gupta Prakash , Farooqi Shaheer , Sanker Vivek , Mathews Arpita Mariam , Pampati Shreya , Allala Manoj Reddy , Dave Tirth
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

Peripheral eosinophilia is a rare but potential sign of TB infection. Physicians should assess patients for TB, especially if they display related symptoms or risk factors, and consider TB as a differential diagnosis, especially in idiopathic cases.

Millions of new tuberculosis (TB) cases are reported annually. Peripheral eosinophilia is rare in tuberculosis. We describe a rare case of tuberculosis with a high peripheral eosinophil count. A 9‐year‐old male presented with fever, cough, and respiratory discomfort for a month. The patient's cough did not respond to treatment, along with weight loss and a loss of appetite. A physical examination revealed cervical lymphadenopathy and bilateral lung crepitations. A hematological investigation showed a high eosinophil count of 25,920 cells per cubic millimeter and medical imaging abnormalities consistent with TB. Some malignancies, allergies, and parasitic infections produce peripheral eosinophilia. However, medical literature rarely discusses TB‐induced eosinophilia. Several studies attribute it to mycobacterium antigen hyperreactivity. Eosinophilic release of cytotoxic chemicals may cause tissue damage, and TB patients' eosinophil levels may fluctuate. This case report emphasizes the need to investigate TB in peripheral eosinophilia patients after ruling out other explanations. Our patient benefited from early detection and anti‐TB medication. More studies are required to investigate the causes of TB eosinophilia and its consequences. A detailed medical history and physical examination are essential to diagnose and treat atypical presentations of TB.
Histoplasmosis mimicking a tumor of the thumb in a patient with neurofibromatosis type I: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Levine Joshua Marc , Manivel Juan , Luna Jeffery
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

We describe an immunocompromised 73‐year‐old male with a history of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) who presented with a lesion on the thumb concerning for malignancy that was found to be histoplasmosis. This unique case highlights the importance of a thorough history and a broad differential diagnosis in the management of new osteoarticular lesions.
Congenital lumbosacral junction kyphosis in an adult patient: A case report
Authors: Eslami Arvin , Chehrassan Mohammadreza , Alimoghadam Shaya , Shakeri Mohammadreza
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

Rare lumbosacral junction kyphosis due to S1–S2 hemivertebra in a 40‐year‐old woman was managed surgically, improving neurological disturbances, and low back pain. Early intervention is vital for congenital anomalies.
HRAS mutation as a diagnostic molecular analysis for epithelial‐myoepithelial carcinoma of the parotid gland: A case report
Authors: Yasuda Taisei , Osaki Masami , Sugitani Masahiko
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

HRAS mutations are frequent genetic alterations in epithelial‐myoepithelial carcinoma, and they may be useful as ancillary molecular tests and predictive molecular tests for targeted therapy with tipifarnib.
Automatic peak annotation and area estimation of glycan map peaks directly from chromatograms
Authors: Hudnik Domen , Bohanec Naja , Drobnak Igor , Ernst Peter , Hanke Alexander , Horvat Matej , Innerbichler Franz , Mikelj Miha , Praper Tilen , Progar Vasja , Valenčič Nika , Omladič Matjaž
Published: October 2023

The present bottleneck in biosimilar bioprocess development has become evaluation of analytical results, due to recent advances in analytics, such as automated sample preparation and development of high‐throughput methods. Currently automated chromatogram integration and annotation is only efficient for simple chromatograms. In an ever more competitive field of biosimilars, this represents a serious drawback because chromatographic analytical methods that provide some of the most valuable physicochemical quality attributes of the product also require careful chromatogram integration and annotation. This work focuses on the glycan mapping analytical method as utilized in development of monoclonal antibody biosimilars, evaluating more than 2000 chromatograms spanning the life cycle of multiple biosimilar development projects. It proposes a modified workflow by implementing automatic machine learning algorithms to determine the proportion of specific relevant glycan species in a sample directly from the chromatogram. Data preparation and analysis is performed using a pipeline approach. Pipeline is a modular design of data processing where signal “travels” through various active modules in a series. Each module performs a specific function or transformation on the signal and propagates the transformed signal to the next module. The pipeline is designed in a way that modules can be independently improved and exchanged. Module functions currently implemented are chromatogram resampling by spline interpolation, baseline removal by asymmetric least squares, peak alignment using parametric time warping, and quantification of the relative proportion of a glycan species using partial least squares regression. Hyper‐parameters of the pipeline are then optimized using the Nelder–Mead method. The approach stands out for its ability to accommodate a broad landscape of samples, covering multiple different proteins in different stages of biosimilar development, analyzed using different adaptations of the glycan map analytical method. The pipeline presents an intuitive, flexible, and creatively simple method design capable of providing reliable results for a wide range of glycan species essential for biosimilar development. It enables transparent, faster, and less subjective evaluation of analytic raw data (from sample to result). Furthermore, our automated approach maintained an accuracy comparable with manual integration thus demonstrating its readiness for implementation in the conservative and highly regulated environment. The presented methodology reduces the cost and time of biosimilar development and should be applicable for any chromatogram‐based analytical method.
The presence of neutrophil extracellular traps in different forms of pyoderma gangrenosum
Authors: Ikeda Takaharu , Kawakami Tamihiro , Yokoyama Kae , Nishibata Yuka , Masuda Sakiko , Tomaru Utano , Ishizu Akihiro
Published: October 2023

We demonstrated that there were abundant neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in the skin biopsies from various types of pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), based on the observation of extended and compact areas of immunolabeling of MPO and Cit H3 proteins. We suggest that neutrophils could undergo an aberrant NET formation in the lesions of PG patients, in the vast majority of idiopathic PG. We did not detect NETs in the skin ulcers of an antiphospholipid syndrome patient with a similar appearance to classical ulcerative PG, while rich NETs were found in the various types of PG. These findings suggest that the presence of NETs in skin tissues could serve as a marker for making differential diagnoses of various types of PG from other similar conditions.
Terpene‐Functionalized Fluoroquinolones as Potential Antimicrobials: Synthesis and Properties
Authors: Izmest'ev Evgeniy S. , Pestova Svetlana V. , Kolesnikova Alena I. , Baidamshina Diana R. , Kayumov Airat R. , Rubtsova Svetlana A.
Published: October 2023

This study was the first to synthesize terpene‐containing conjugates of fluoroquinolones, ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin, and to evaluate their antibacterial activity against gram‐positive methicillin sensitive (MSSA) and methicillin resistant (MRSA) S. aureus, gram‐negative P. aeruginosa as well as antifungal activity against C. albicans. The ability of obtained fluoroquinolones to inhibit S. aureus growth was found to depend upon the presence of a linker separating the bulky terpene and fluoroquinolone fragments, and this activity diminished with increasing its length. The highest activity against MSSA was demonstrated by ciprofloxacin derivatives with campholenic (MIC 1 μg/mL) and 2‐(isobornan‐2‐yl‐sulfanyl)acetyl (MIC 0.5 μg/mL) substituents. The compound with the last fragment showed high activity against MRSA (MIC 8 μg/mL). The terpene‐functionalized norfloxacin derivatives generally proved to be less active than those containing ciprofloxacin fragment. Camphor‐10‐sulfonylamide derivative with the ciprofloxacin fragment was the only one of all compounds that showed high antifungal activity against C. albicans (8 μg/mL). The study presents data on docking fluoroquinolones to S. aureus DNA gyrase to explain the reasons for manifestation or disappearance of antibacterial activity. The cytotoxicity of fluoroquinolones that showed any antimicrobial activity was investigated against bovine primary lung cells, and they were found to be not toxic in most cases.
Nanocomposite Counter‐Electrode Materials for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells: A Review
Authors: Bezabih Meseret Simachew
Published: October 2023

To date, third‐generation solar‐electricity dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are a hot research topic for the next generation of photovoltaic solar technology. Additionally, cathodes, including nanocomposite cathode‐based DSSCs, are a crucial component addition to the electrolyte anode. The usage of precious platinum (Pt) cathodes in DSSCs continues to be a barrier for large‐scale DSSCs manufacture. Finding a cost‐effective, environmentally benign, high power conversion efficiency (PCE), and electrocatalytic performance of an alternative Pt‐free nanocomposite cathode material in DSSCs is critical. This review focuses on recent developments in cathode materials, namely, nanocomposite cathodes like polymers/carbon, polymers/transition metal compounds (TMCs), and TMCs/oxide. Furthermore, it also includes the effect of fabrication methods on PCE, morphological structures, and electrocatalytic performance of nanocomposite cathodes in DSSCs, and finally, the conclusion and outlook.
Decarbonizing university campuses: A business model for food waste management at Istanbul Technical University (İTÜ) Ayazağa Campus, Turkey
Authors: Maçin Kadriye Elif , Arıkan Osman Atilla , Altınbaş Mahmut , Damgaard Anders
Published: October 2023

Food waste is a significant environmental issue today, as it contributes to depleting natural resources and greenhouse gas emissions from improper management. To address this, alternative food waste management and recovery strategies must be developed to promote nutrient recirculation and move towards decarbonization. University campuses could play a crucial role in pioneering such strategies, through pilot studies and implementation of effective waste management. The aim of this study is to devise a food waste management strategy that provides a more circular and decarbonized economy. A case example was developed based on ITU Ayazağa Campus, Turkey, with annual separated food waste of 577 tonne per year. A Life Cycle Assessment was conducted using the EASETECH software. Four scenarios were evaluated: anaerobic digestion, composting, incineration, and landfill. Of these, incineration resulted in the highest CO2‐eq savings, but lacked decoupling and circularity of resources. Conversely, anaerobic digestion demonstrated the highest circularity and lowest toxicity. Based on these findings, anaerobic digestion was selected for further investigation. Economic transactions for the anaerobic digestion system's business models were analyzed, including revenues, municipality fees, and operating costs. The new economic model is expected to align with circular economy strategies and promote stakeholder collaboration as a significant social outcome.
Carbon emission trading under the wings of black swans and green swans: Evidence from China
Authors: Guo Yunxia , Li Yujia , Wu Haitao , Hao Yu
Published: October 2023

In response to the potential green swans event in the future, China is adopting market‐oriented means to encourage green development, specifically through carbon emission trading schemes. At the same time, under the outbreak of the current global pandemic, it is equally important to consider the impact of black swan events. Therefore, this study aims to analyse the fluctuations in carbon emission trading prices under green and black swan events by utilizing daily data from seven carbon emission exchanges in China from 2017 to 2020. The analysis includes the construction of multiple regression models, PVAR models, and panel threshold models. Additionally, the study addresses the endogeneity problem by using instrumental variables. The findings of the study indicate that: (1) Rising temperatures will drive up the carbon emissions trading price, and this impact will persist over time. On the other hand, increased humidity levels and sunshine hours will reduce the carbon emissions trading price. Furthermore, there is a positive correlation between the increase in the price of primary energy and the increase in the carbon emissions trading price. (2) The spread of COVID‐19 has a restraining effect on the increase in temperature and will have a long‐term negative impact on the carbon emissions trading price. (3) The threshold effect concerning the prevalence of pandemics is recognized, which implies that the impact of the epidemic is staged and nonlinear. Overall, the results of this article highlight the importance of a reasonable response to both black swan and green swan events in order to enhance the efficiency of the current emission trading scheme.
Melatonin supplementation protects against traumatic colon injury by regulating SERPINA3N protein expression
Authors: Cao Bo , Gao Jing‐Wang , Zhang Qing‐Peng , Xu Xing‐Ming , Zhao Rui‐Yang , Li Hang‐Hang , Wei Bo
Published: October 2023

Traumatic colon injury (TCI) is a typical injury with high mortality. Prolongation of the intervention time window is a potentially useful approach to improving the outcomes of TCI casualties. This study aimed to identify the pathological mechanisms of TCI and to develop effective strategies to extend the survival time. A semicircular incision was made to prepare a TCI model using C57BL/6 mice. An overview of microbiota dysregulation was achieved by metagenome sequencing. Protein expression reprogramming in the intestinal epithelium was investigated using proteomics profiling. The mice that were subjected to TCI died within a short period of time when not treated. Gut symbiosis showed abrupt turbulence, and specific pathogenic bacteria rapidly proliferated. The protein expression in the intestinal epithelium was also reprogrammed. Among the differentially expressed proteins, SERPINA3N was overexpressed after TCI modeling. Deletion of Serpina3n prolonged the posttraumatic survival time of mice with TCI by improving gut homeostasis in vivo. To promote the translational application of this research, the effects of melatonin (MLT), an oral inhibitor of the SERPINA3N protein, were further investigated. MLT effectively downregulated SERPINA3N expression and mitigated TCI‐induced death by suppressing the NF‐κB signaling pathway. Our findings prove that preventive administration of MLT serves as an effective regimen to prolong the posttraumatic survival time by restoring gut homeostasis perturbed by TCI. It may become a novel strategy for improving the prognosis of patients suffering from TCI.
Pneumocystis carinii Pneumonia in Human Immunodeficiency Virus‐Infected Infants and Children
Authors: Goodwin S. Diane
Published: October 2023

Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) is the most common opportunistic infection in adults and children infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Without prophylaxis, half of all these children will develop PCP at sometime during their illness. The disease is associated with high mortality and a poor prognosis for long‐term survival in this patient population. In infants and young children, PCP may be a primary infection, compared with reactivation of a latent infection that is usually the case in older children and adults. Clinical features, radiographic findings and diagnostic strategies are similar in children and adults. Although alternative agents are being investigated, trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole (TMP‐SMX) and pentamidine remain the standard therapeutic agents. Insufficient data are available to recommend routine adjunctive corticosteroids in children with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), PCP, and significant respiratory disease. Prophylaxis against PCP occurrence or recurrence is indicated for HIV‐infected children and infants under 1 year of age, children with less than 20% T4 helper lymphocytes, those meeting age‐related Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines for prophylaxis, and those with a history of suspected or documented PCP. The CDC recommends intermittent TMP‐SMX for PCP prophylaxis in children with AIDS.
Defining and Achieving Optimum Therapeutic Goals in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Dasta Joseph E , Brackett Carolyn C.
Published: October 2023

Patients who are critically ill with sepsis, shock, respiratory failure, trauma, or major surgical procedures may have reduced morbidity and mortality when hemodynamic and oxygen transport variables are augmented to values higher than those traditionally considered normal. Lactate production and suboptimum oxygen transport values are associated with anaerobic metabolism and insufficient tissue oxygenation. Since lactate can be a marker of inadequate tissue oxygenation, serial lactate measurements may be useful in individualizing therapy to reverse tissue hypoxia. Optimum hemodynamic and oxygen transport values are highly individual, and no accepted method has been established for guiding therapy. These values, together with plasma lactate concentrations, may assist in individualizing therapy in critically ill patients. No consensus can be reached at this time as to which specific therapeutic end points are optimal, how to achieve these end points, and which subset of patients will benefit from this therapy.
The Effect of Ketoconazole on Endocrine and Reproductive Parameters in Male Mice and Rats
Authors: HECKMAN WENDY R. , KANE BRIAN R. , PAKYZ RUTH E. , COSENTINO M. JAMES
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Ketoconazole has been shown to reduce steroidogenesis by inhibiting the cytochrome P‐450 enzymes in these pathways. This finding, along with the observation that the compound reduces sperm motility, led us to study the effectiveness of ketoconazole as a male contraceptive agent administered in acute and chronic studies of both rats and mice. Four hours after a single administration, male rats showed significant reductions in both serum testosterone and corticosterone levels that completely recovered (testosterone) or nearly recovered (corticosterone) 24 hours after administration. Chronic administration of ketoconazole to male rats and mice resulted in steroid levels comparable with those of control animals. Epididymal sperm motility was only slightly reduced in male mice 4 hours after administration of the drug. No effect on sperm motility was noted after chronic administration in either species studied. In vitro exposure of epididymal sperm to ketoconazole resulted in a significant reduction of sperm motility. Breeding trials after ketoconazole administration resulted in normal fertility and fecundity even at the highest dosage studied. The lack of correlation between steroid levels and sperm immobilization, along with rapid in vivo and in vitro effects on sperm motility, suggests that the reduction in sperm motility is not related to a decrease in steroid levels. From these data, the authors conclude that ketoconazole is probably not a viable approach to the development of a male contraceptive.
Sperm‐Zona Pellucida Interaction in Cynomolgus and Rhesus Macaques
Authors: VANDEVOORT CATHERINE A. , TOLLNER THEODORE L. , OVERSTREET JAMES W.
Published: October 2023

Abstract: These experiments were carried out to establish and validate an in vitro system for studying macaque sperm—zona pellucida interaction. Sperm of rhesus and cynomolgus macaques were capacitated in vitro and incubated with cryopreserved zonae pellucidae. Homologous gamete incubations were tested, as well as cross‐species combinations. Approximately 25% of macaque sperm bound to the zonae acrosome reacted within 1 minute of gamete coincubation, although the percentage of acrosome reactions in the sperm suspension was less than 1%. There was a small but consistent increase in the percent of acrosome reactions of zona sperm after an additional hour of incubation in sperm‐free media. Similar results were obtained in the cross‐species experiments, suggesting that zonae from the two macaque species can be used interchangeably in sperm‐zona binding assays. Differences in the physiologic characteristics of the sperm of the macaque species were demonstrated. Cynomolgus sperm required activation with caffeine and dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate (dbcAMP) in order to bind to the zonae. Rhesus sperm were able to bind to the zonae and acrosome react in the absence of activators, although both sperm binding and percentage of acrosome reactions increased with the addition of activators. Large numbers of sperm from both macaque species bound to the zonae of hamster oocytes after treatment with activators, but the bound sperm did not acrosome react. These experiments demonstrate the importance of evaluating the acrosomal status of sperm when sperm‐zona binding assays are performed with macaque gametes.
Growth Factors (EGF, IGF‐I) Modulate the Morphological Differentiation of Adult Marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) Sertoli Cells In Vitro
Authors: PRETZER DANIELA , GHAIDA JAMALEDIN A. , RUNE GABRIELE M.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: The effects or epidermal growtn factor (EGF) ana insulin‐like growth factor I (IGF‐I) on mature marmoset (Callithrix Jacchus) Sertoli ceils in vitro were investigated using light and electron microscopic and histochemical means. The morphological data were substantiated by morphometric analysis at the electron microscopic level. In a bicameral chamber system, cultured Sertoli cells displayed a high degree of ultrastructural differentiation and exhibited a polarized appearance. Basally located tight junctions joined adjacent cells. Germ cells of early stages of development were regularly seen. Under the influence of IGF‐I, cells developed extensive cell—cell contacts. The surface density of smooth endoplasmic reticulum was increased. In contrast, the volume density of lipid inclusions was decreased. The morphological integrity of enclosed germ cells was maintained for a longer period. With EGF, cells were arranged in loose aggregates. Intercellular spaces were widened. The volume density of lipid inclusions was increased. Germ cells exhibited profound signs of degeneration early in culture, paralleled by increased development of phagolysosomes and high acid‐β‐galactosidase activity. Under the influence of either growth factor, mitochondria displayed a shift from the crista to the tubulo‐vesicular type. Mitochondrial dimensions and the volume density of mitochondrial compartment were increased. In comparison with control cultures all documented changes were statistically significant. Our findings indicate that marmoset Sertoli cells are target cells for EGF and IGF‐I. Moreover, the dynamics of intercellular contacts, germ cell survival, and morphological indices of lipid and/or steroid metabolism seem to be differentially modulated.
Age‐Related Decreased Leydig Cell Testosterone Production in the Brown Norway Rat
Authors: CHEN HAOLIN , HARDY MATTHEW P. , HUHTANIEMI ILPO , ZIRKIN BARRY R.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Previous studies have demonstrated that Leydig cell testosterone production diminishes with age in Brown Norway rats. The objective of the studies presented herein was to test the following possible explanations for age‐related decline in steroidogenesis: (1) decline in Leydig cell number; (2) understimulation by luteinizing hormone (LH); (3) reduced ability of individual Leydig cells to produce testosterone; and (4) influence of loss of germ cells. Leydig cells isolated from the testes of young and aged rats by centrifugal elutriation and Percoll density gradient centrifugation were examined for their ability to produce testosterone when stimulated maximally with LH or with dibutyryl cyclic AMP (dbcAMP). Leydig cell number and volume were examined in situ using stereological methods. Serum LH levels were measured using a highly sensitive immunofluorometric assay. Average Leydig cell volume decreased with age, and consistent with this observation, individual Leydig cells isolated from aging rats produced significantly less testosterone than those from young rats whether the cells were cultured in vitro with maximally stimulating LH or with dbcAMP. The age‐associated diminished testosterone production could not be explained by changes in Leydig cell number, serum LH levels, Leydig cell responsiveness to LH, or testicular germ cell content. These results, taken together, suggest that the reduced testosterone production seen in aged rats is related to defects in the steroidogenic pathway beyond the LH receptor‐cAMP cascade. The nature of the initial age‐related changes that cause reduced steroidogenesis is not known, and therefore it is not known whether such changes are intrinsic or extrinsic to the Leydig cells.
Selection of Acrosome‐Reacted Sperm with MH61‐Immunobeads
Authors: OHASHI KAZUTOMO , SAJI FUMITAKA , WAKIMOTO AKINORI , TSUTSUI TATEKI , NAKAZAWA TERUKI , OKABE MASARU , MIMURA TSUTOMU , TANIZAWA OSAMU
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Separation of acrosome‐reacted viable sperm is an important problem in the analysis of sperm function and the micromanipulation of gametes such as the microinjection of sperm into ooplasm and subzonal sperm insertion. In the present study, we collected acrosome‐reacted sperm selectively using paramagnetic immunobeads, referred to as MH61 ‐beads, which attach themselves to the head of the acrosome‐reacted sperm and are recovered by a magnet. The maximum number of sperm was recovered by the MH61‐beads when 3 × 105 sperm/100 μ1 and 6 × 105 MH61‐beads were coincubated for 1 hour. The recovery of sperm was significantly correlated with the percentage of the acrosome reaction in the capacitation medium. After incubation for 12 hours, 2.4–9.0 × 104 sperm could be collected, and the percentage of viable and acrosome‐reacted sperm was 28–60%. To improve the recovery of the acrosome‐reacted sperm, we utilized follicular fluid, which induces the acrosome reaction. Addition of follicular fluid to the capacitation medium at a final concentration of 20% induced the acrosome reaction and increased the recovery of acrosome‐reacted sperm significantly. In conclusion, separation of acrosome‐reacted sperm by the MH61‐bead‐binding method could become a useful technique in research of sperm function and gamete micromanipulation.
Advances in Biginelli reaction: A comprehensive review
Authors: Chandravarkar Aravind , Aneeja Thaipparambil , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: October 2023

The Biginelli reaction, a conventional three‐component reaction provides 3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2(1H)‐ones/thiones via one‐pot acid catalyzed cyclocondensation of an aldehyde, a β‐keto ester, and urea or thiourea. Dihydropyrimidones are well‐known scaffolds having a wide range of pharmacological activities. So far classical Biginelli reaction has witnessed several modification and studies are still continuing in this field to develop greener and efficient methodologies. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in Biginelli reaction covering literature from 2020 to 2023.
Factors associated with enteral autonomy after reanastomosis in infants with intestinal failure and ostomy: A descriptive cohort study
Authors: Patel Arjun D. , Casini Gina , Hagan Joseph L. , Debuyserie Anne , Vogel Adam M. , Gollins Laura , Hair Amy B. , Fernandes Caraciolo J. , Premkumar Muralidhar H.
Published: October 2023

Background

To determine variables associated with outcomes in infants with intestinal failure (IF) and ostomy following reanastomosis (RA).

Methods

A single‐center, descriptive cohort study of 120 infants with IF and a stoma from January 2011 to December 2020 with subsequent RA during initial hospitalization. The primary outcome was achievement of enteral autonomy (EA) following RA. Other outcomes were duration of hospital stay, and mortality. Penalized logistic regression and linear regression were used for data analysis.

Results

The median gestational age was 26 weeks, and the median birth weight was 890 g. Three infants died. The median duration between ostomy creation and RA was 80 days (interquartile range; 62.5, 100.5). For each additional day of discontinuity, the odds of EA decreased by 2% (odds ratio [OR] = 0.980; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.962, 0.999; P = 0.038), and death increased by 4.2% (OR = 1.042; 95% CI: 1.010, 1.075; P = 0.009). For each additional mL/kg/day of enteral feeds at RA, the odds of EA increased by 7.5% (OR = 1.075; 95% CI: 1.027, 1.126, P = 0.002) and duration of hospital stay decreased by 0.35 days (slope coefficient = −0.351; 95% CI: −0.540, −0.163; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Shorter duration of intestinal discontinuity and enteral nutrition before RA could positively influence EA and duration of stay in infants with IF and ostomy following RA.