bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Against Flow
Authors: Soderman Braxton
Published: April 2021

A critical discussion of the experience and theory of flow (as conceptualized by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi) in video games.

Flow—as conceptualized by the psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi—describes an experience of “being in the zone,” of intense absorption in an activity. It is a central concept in the study of video games, although often applied uncritically. In Against Flow, Braxton Soderman takes a step back and offers a critical assessment of flow's historical, theoretical, political, and ideological contexts in relation to video games. With close readings of games that implement and represent flow, Soderman not only evaluates the concept of flow in terms of video games but also presents a general critique of flow and its sibling, play.

Soderman argues that flow is a game design strategy used to extend the duration of playful consumption. Players—called flowing subjects by Soderman—are not simply experiencing the psychological state of flow; they are being positioned as media consumers in ways that promote flow's ideologies and sustain ludic capitalism. He examines flow from a range of perspectives, considering, among other things, flow as a form of coping with alienation, the commodification of flow, and the relationship of flow and reflection. Finally, Soderman calls for the design and interpretation of new architectures of critical flow in games, arguing that we must rethink standard forms of flow and embrace more diverse and inclusive forms of the flowing subject.
Artificial intelligence approaches and mechanisms for big data analytics: a systematic study
Authors: Rahmani Amir Masoud , Azhir Elham , Ali Saqib , Mohammadi Mokhtar , Ahmed Omed Hassan , Yassin Ghafour Marwan , Hasan Ahmed Sarkar , Hosseinzadeh Mehdi
Published: April 2021

Recent advances in sensor networks and the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies have led to the gathering of an enormous scale of data. The exploration of such huge quantities of data needs more efficient methods with high analysis accuracy. Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques such as machine learning and evolutionary algorithms able to provide more precise, faster, and scalable outcomes in big data analytics. Despite this interest, as far as we are aware there is not any complete survey of various artificial intelligence techniques for big data analytics. The present survey aims to study the research done on big data analytics using artificial intelligence techniques. The authors select related research papers using the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method. Four groups are considered to investigate these mechanisms which are machine learning, knowledge-based and reasoning methods, decision-making algorithms, and search methods and optimization theory. A number of articles are investigated within each category. Furthermore, this survey denotes the strengths and weaknesses of the selected AI-driven big data analytics techniques and discusses the related parameters, comparing them in terms of scalability, efficiency, precision, and privacy. Furthermore, a number of important areas are provided to enhance the big data analytics mechanisms in the future.
Natural resources to control COVID-19: could lactoferrin amend SARS-CoV-2 infectivity?
Authors: Mattar Ehab H. , Elrashdy Fatma , Almehdar Hussein A. , Uversky Vladimir N. , Redwan Elrashdy M.
Published: April 2021

The world population is still facing the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Such a challenge requires complicated tools to control, namely vaccines, effective cures, and complementary agents. Here we present one candidate for the role of an effective cure and/or complementary agent: lactoferrin. It is the cross-talking mediator between many organs/cellular systems in the body. It serves as a physiological, immunological, and anti-microbial barrier, and acts as a regulator molecule. Furthermore, lactoferrin has receptors on most tissues cells, and is a rich source for bioactive peptides, particularly in the digestive system. In the past months, in vitro and in vivo evidence has accumulated regarding lactoferrin’s ability to control SARS-CoV-2 infectivity in different indicated scenarios. Also, lactoferrin or whey milk (of human or other mammal’s origin) is a cheap, easily available, and safe agent, the use of which can produce promising results. Pharmaceutical and/or food supplementary formulas of lactoferrin could be particularly effective in controlling the gastrointestinal COVID-19-associated symptoms and could limit the fecal-oral viral infection transmission, through mechanisms that mimic that of norovirus infection control by lactoferrin via induction of intestinal innate immunity. This natural avenue may be effective not only in symptomatic patients, but could also be more helpful in asymptomatic patients as a main or adjuvant treatment.
Role of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation in SAPHO Syndrome- A Rare Condition
Authors: Sachdeva Shail , Pawaria Sonia
Published: April 2021

SAPHO syndrome (synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis) is heterogenous, rare entity with manifestations of Pustulo-Psoriatic Hyperostotic Spondyloarthritis (PPHS) and Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis (CRMO). It can occur in all the age groups with unknown etiology. Hereby, author presents a case of 37-year-old female who reported with the complaint of bilateral knee pain and lower back pain. Laboratory investigations revealed elevated Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels. Bone scintigraphy and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed bone lesions, The diagnosis of SAPHO syndrome was made. The present article highlights the role of physical therapy as a non-pharmacological treatment modality to reduce pain, the intensity of which was measured by Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). The Range Of Motion (ROM) was measured by digital inclinometer and her Quality of Life (QoL) was measured by the 36-item short form health survey (SF-36) scale. Eight weeks postprotocol showed significant improvement in pain, ROM and QOL. This suggests a positive outcome of rehabilitation in SAPHO syndrome.
Effect of Kapalabhati in a Patient with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome- A Case Report
Authors: Rashmitha AP , Kumar KU Dhanesh , Rani P Shilna , Pooja GS
Published: April 2021

An eight-week Kapalabhati practice was given to a female aged 19 years who was diagnosed with bilateral Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Kapalabhati is one of the simplest yet important parts of Shatkarmas in Yoga, which is known to improve metabolic fitness. The PCOS is a complex hormonal disorder with metabolic derangements and insulin resistance as an integral part, which also plays a significant role in its aetiology. The condition can be exacerbated by the co-existence of obesity. Hence, improvement in the metabolic profile is the key step in the management of PCOS.
A Cross-sectional Study of Antipsychotic Drugs Induced Sexual Dysfunction Among Married Males with Remitted Schizophrenia Attending Tertiary Health Care Centre from Central India
Authors: Shaikh Rameez Abdul Karim , Ghogare Ajinkya Sureshrao , Prasad Parul , Deshmukh Shrikant
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Schizophrenia is a chronic debilitating disease having a major impact on the sufferers’ lives. Antipsychotic drugs are the mainstay of the treatment of schizophrenia. But, antipsychotics can lead to a variety of sexual dysfunctions among the males with schizophrenia, which may affect their treatment compliance. Aim: To assess the prevalence and the types of sexual dysfunctions among married males with remitted schizophrenia who were on a single oral antipsychotic drug from either class (i.e., typical or atypical type). Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary health-care centre from Central India, with a sample size of 100 married males with schizophrenia who were in the remission phase on a single oral antipsychotic drug. Data were collected by using a convenient sampling method. Socio-demographic profile and clinical variables were recorded in a specific case report form prepared for the study using the Arizona Sexual Experiences (ASEX) scale and the Udvalg for Kliniske Undersogelser (UKU) side-effect rating scale to assess the prevalence and the types of oral antipsychotic drugs induced sexual dysfunctions among study participants. Results: The prevalence of antipsychotic drug induced sexual dysfunction was 54%. The most common type of sexual side-effect of oral antipsychotic treatment was Decreased Sexual Desire/Drive (DSD) as assessed by both ASEX (94.4%) and UKU (63.0%) scales. Sexual dysfunctions like DSD and Ejaculatory Dysfunction (EJD) were associated with the treatment of schizophrenia with typical antipsychotic drugs. Conclusion: The present study shows that the treatment with typical antipsychotics was significantly associated with sexual side-effects. So, routine inquiry during the follow-ups should be done regarding the evaluation of sexual side-effects of antipsychotic agents in order to improve treatment compliance and disease prognosis.
Effect of Bleaching with Strawberry Extract and Hydrogen Peroxide on Colour Change, Surface Morphology and Micro-Shear Bond Strength of Resin Composite to Enamel Surface
Authors: Radhakrishnan Rajith , Nesamani Ravikumar , Sanjeev Kavitha , Sekar Mahalaxmi
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The search to replace the chemical bleaching agent namely the Hydrogen Peroxide (HP) with a natural substance to whiten the discoloured tooth is a need of the hour, due to the severe roughing and compromised bonding of resin composite to enamel surface by this agent. Aim: To evaluate and compare the colour and surface changes in enamel surface, and the micro-shear bond strength of resin composite to enamel following bleaching with 35% HP and 2% Strawberry Extract (SE). Materials and Methods: In this in-vitro study, 30 bovine maxillary central incisors were decoronated and allocated randomly to two groups: group 1 (negative control) (n=15) and group 2 (experimental) (n=15). To evaluate the bleaching efficacy, group 2 specimens were experimentally stained with tea. Baseline colour coordinates (pre-bleach values) (L*, a*, b*) (∆E) were recorded. The crowns were sectioned to obtain four equal parts to obtain 60 specimens and these were allotted randomly to 4 subgroups a, b, c, d (n=15 each) based on the bleaching protocol. Subgroup a, Hydrogen Peroxide (HP). subgroup b, Strawberry Extract (SE); subgroup c, HP+SE (HPS); subgroup d, HP/P (HP/ Proanthocyanidin). Following bleaching, colour coordinates (post-bleach values) (L*, a*, b*) (∆E) were measured as mentioned before. Qualitative analysis of the surface (n=2) for each group was performed using scanning electron microscopy. Micro-shear bond strength of resin composite to the treated specimens (n=13) was determined using universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. Kruskal-Wallis one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to calculate the p-value and Post-Hoc Tukey Honest significant Test (HSD) was used to identify the significant groups, p-value (<0.05). Results: All the post-bleach specimens showed significantly higher mean ∆E (more whiter) values compared to their respective pre-bleach specimens (baseline values) (p-value -<0.05). Among the post-bleach groups, highest ∆E values (more whiter) were observed in subgroup 2c(HPS) (p-value=0.029). Similarly minimal morphological surface irregularities were observed in HPS. Group 1 (negative control) had the highest micro-shear bond strength compared to the experimental groups (group 2). Significantly, higher micro-shear bond strength was observed in subgroups 2b,c,d (SE, HPS, HPP) compared to subgroup 2a(HP) (p-value <0.001). Conclusion: SE alone or in combination with HP is an efficient and effective dental bleaching agent.
Psychometric Analysis of Undergraduate Nursing Students using Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale:A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Chouhan Sunil , Gupta Akriti , Singh Ruchi , Alvi Anzar B
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Students at nursing colleges encounter not only issues associated to individual life, but also learning difficulties. The rigor in professional training may predispose them to depression, anxiety and stress. Aim: To investigate the prevalence and psychometric condition such as depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in undergraduate nursing students. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study on 387 female nursing students, aged between 18-27 years (21.16±1.52) from AIIMS, Bhopal and Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India. They were analysed using Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-42 (DASS-42). This self-administered anonymous questionnaire was distributed through ‘WhatsApp’ web and e-mail, in the form of “Google form” to all the enrolled students. The Microsoft Office Excel 2010 and Statistical Package for The Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used to analysed the data using percentages. Results: The questionnaire was filled by 223 out of 387 students. The response rate was 57.62 percent. The mean age of the respondents were 21.16 years (±1.52 years). The prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress prevalence were 36.7%, 49.33% and 34.98%, respectively. In the depression and anxiety traits, majority of students were in moderate stage (14.35%, 21.08%), while in stress, majority (17.04%) of students were in mild stage. Spearman correlation found a significant moderate positive relationship between depression and anxiety (r=0.592, p<0.001), depression and stress (r=0.578, p<0.001), anxiety and stress (r=0.652, p<0.001). Conclusion: Among the undergraduate nursing students, depression, anxiety and stress was found to be remarkable. Hence, it is necessary to enhance mental well-being among nursing students. The results allow for anxiety control screening measures and expanded rehabilitation and treatment to be initiated for the students.
Comparative Analysis of Different Nutrient Media for Growth of Agrobacterium tumefaciens under Small Volume Cultures
Authors: Iqbal Atif , Dave Nitish , Kant Tarun
Published: April 2021

Aims: To assess the effects of different selective complex growth media: Yeast Extract Peptone (YEP), Yeast Extract Mannitol (YEM), and Luria Bertani (LB) on growth and multiplication of three different strains of Agrobacterium tumefaciens.

Place and Duration of Study: Molecular Biology Laboratory, Genetics and Tree Improvement Division, Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India, between July and December 2020.

Methodology: Three strains of Agrobacterium (EHA105, GV3101 and LBA4404) were inoculated to grow on three different complex nutrient media (YEP, YEM, LB) supplemented with respective antibiotics for a period of 30 hours. Optical Density (O.D) at 600 nm was measured at every 3-hour interval to analyze differential growth pattern.

Results: Though all the three nutrient media supported the growth of bacteria, YEP medium supported the fast growth of all strains of bacteria, LB medium was a little less efficient but comparable to YEP media. However, YEM medium proved the least supportive for bacterial growth among the three media types.

Conclusion: Agrobacterium is used for genetic transformation of plant species and crop improvement. knowledge of the growth pattern of bacteria is necessary for the effective infection of plant material. We have analyzed that three strains of Agrobacterium on three different complex media, among the three media YEP media was supporting fast growth. This study can help the researchers to gain knowledge of the growth pattern of Agrobacterium to be used in the genetic transformation of plant species accordingly.
Thrombosis is associated with worse survival in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A report from CYP‐C
Authors: Pelland‐Marcotte Marie‐Claude , Kulkarni Ketan , Athale Uma H. , Pole Jason D. , Brandão Leonardo R. , Sung Lillian
Published: April 2021

There are conflicting data about whether the development of cancer‐associated thrombo‐embolism (TE) negatively impacts survival in children. The objective was to determine whether TE during treatment was associated with overall survival (OS) and event‐free survival (EFS) in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). We performed a population‐based retrospective cohort study using the Cancer in Young People‐Canada registry. Children <15 years of age were diagnosed with de novo ALL (2000–2016). The primary exposure variable was radiologically‐confirmed thrombo‐embolism requiring medical intervention. Multivariable Cox regression models were used to determine the impact of thrombo‐embolism on survival, where TE was time‐dependent. We included 2006 children (median age: 4 years, 88.5% precursor B‐cell ALL). Thrombo‐embolism occurred in 113 patients (5.6%), at a median time of 107 days (interquartile range: 35–184 days) after ALL diagnosis. Among standard/low‐risk patients, 41/1165 (3.5%) developed TE while among high/very high‐risk patients, 72/841 (8.6%) developed TE. Patients with TE had a significantly worse OS (adjusted HR [aHR] of death: 2.61, 95% CI: 1.62–4.22, p < 0.001) and EFS (aHR of an event [death, relapse, second malignancy]: 2.03, 95% CI: 1.35–3.05, p = 0.001), compared with patients without TE. No statistically significant difference was seen in standard/low risk ALL for OS and EFS, but TE was associated with a significantly lower OS and EFS in children with high/very high‐risk ALL (aHR of death: 2.90, 95% CI: 1.79–4.72, p < 0.001; aHR of an event: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.30–3.12, p = 0.002). Thus, TE led to a statistically significant reduction in OS and EFS in children with high risk/very high‐risk leukemia.
Mie‐Resonance‐Enhanced Visible Light Absorption in Dielectric‐Supported Small Pt Nanoparticles for Photocatalysis
Authors: Huang Yu , Wang Ningning , Huang Ye , Deng Liren , Shen Chenglong , Chen Yun
Published: April 2021

Strong near‐field coupling between small catalytic Pt nanoparticles (NPs) and their dielectric supports can be achieved while visible light absorption in the Pt NPs is greatly enhanced via rationally designing the dielectric–Pt core–satellite configuration. Herein, it is demonstrated that the absorption enhancement is mediated by the Mie resonances of the support and the absorption peaks are induced by the magnetic Mie resonances. Utilizing both multipole decomposition analysis and numerical near‐field mapping, resonances including magnetic dipole, magnetic quadrupole, and higher modes are verified. For the generation of strong Mie resonances, a dielectric support with a high refractive index, like TiO2, can be used not only as the core directly, but also as a shell coated beneath or above the Pt NP layer. Additionally, the redshifts between the absorption peaks contributed by the Pt NPs and the scattering peaks contributed by the dielectric core are ascribed to the intrinsical spectral deviation between near‐ and far‐field optical properties. These findings benefit significantly both the fundamental understanding and optimized design of dielectric supported Pt photocatalysts, providing new opportunities for solar energy conversion and visible light photocatalysis using nonplasmonic catalytic transition metals.
Electrochemical Detection of 2‐Nitrophenol Using a Glassy Carbon Electrode Modified with BaO Nanorods
Authors: Alam M. M. , Asiri Abdullah M. , Rahman Mohammed M.
Published: April 2021

Here, an electrochemical detection approach (differential pulse voltammetry) was employed to develop a 2‐nitrophenol (2‐NP) sensor probe using a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) coated by wet‐chemically synthesized nanorods (NRs) of BaO. The prepared BaO NRs were characterized by field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The peak currents by differential pulse voltammetric (DPV) analysis of 2‐NP are plotted against the concentration to obtain the calibration curve of the 2‐NP detection. It was found to be linear from 1.5 to 9.0 μM, defined as the dynamic range (LDR) for 2‐NP detection in phosphate buffer solution. The sensor sensitivity was calculated from the slope of LDR by considering the active surface area of NRs coated on GCE (0.0316 cm2) and found as 17.6 μAμM−1 cm−2. The limit of detection (LOD) was calculated as 0.50±0.025 μM from the signal/noise (S/N) ratio of 3. Moreover, the sensor analytical parameters such as reproducibility, long‐term performing ability (stability), response time and validity in real environmental samples were found acceptable and to give satisfactory results. The development of a nanomaterial‐based electrochemical chemical sensor might be an effective approach to sensor technology to detect carcinogenic and hazardous toxins for environmental safety and healthcare fields in a broad scale.
The application of precision dosing in the use of sertraline throughout pregnancy for poor and ultrarapid metabolizer CYP 2C19 subjects: A virtual clinical trial pharmacokinetics study
Authors: Almurjan Aminah , Macfarlane Hannah , Badhan Raj K. S.
Published: April 2021

Sertraline is known to undergo changes in pharmacokinetics during pregnancy. CYP 2C19 has been implicated in the interindividual variation in clinical effect associated with sertraline activity. However, knowledge of suitable dose titrations during pregnancy and within CYP 2C19 phenotypes is lacking. A pharmacokinetic modeling virtual clinical trials approach was implemented to: (i) assess gestational changes in sertraline trough plasma concentrations for CYP 2C19 phenotypes, and (ii) identify appropriate dose titration strategies to stabilize sertraline levels within a defined therapeutic range throughout gestation. Sertraline trough plasma concentrations decreased throughout gestation, with maternal volume expansion and reduction in plasma albumin being identified as possible causative reasons. All CYP 2C19 phenotypes required a dose increase throughout gestation. For extensive metabolizer (EM) and ultrarapid metabolizer (UM) phenotypes, doses of 100–150 mg daily are required throughout gestation. For poor metabolizers (PM), 50 mg daily during trimester 1 followed by a dose of 100 mg daily in trimesters 2 and 3 are required.
How good are inpatients at feigning Miranda abilities?: An investigation of the Miranda Quiz, Inventory of Legal Knowledge, and Structured Inventory of Malingered Symptomatology
Authors: Rogers Richard , Otal Tanveer K. , Velsor Sarah F. , Pan Minqi
Published: April 2021

The current study represents the first investigation into feigned Miranda abilities using an inpatient population. We investigated the use of a very generic measure (i.e., the Structured Inventory of Malingered Symptomatology, or SIMS) as well as two specialized forensic feigning measures: the Miranda Quiz (MQ) and Inventory of Legal Knowledge (ILK). With a quasi‐random assignment, 82 acute inpatients were evenly distributed to “feigning” and “genuine” groups. The recommended SIMS cut score > 14 performed poorly, misclassifying three‐quarters of the genuine group as feigning. In general, sensitivities on the specialized scales were constrained by the general lack of severe decrements for the feigning group. However, specificities were strong to outstanding. In particular, the MQ floor effect showed some promise but was limited by its small number of items. The strongest potential was observed for the revised ILK scales, especially the Revised Clinical ILK (RC‐ILK). When using single‐point cut scores on two prior correctional samples, the RC‐ILK produced excellent sensitivities (0.94 and 0.96) and outstanding specificities (0.98 and 0.99). Methodological issues and professional implications were discussed in the context of feigned Miranda abilities.
Ultrasound‐Assisted Extraction of Water‐Soluble Polysaccharides from the Fruit of Acanthopanaxbrachypus: Physicochemical, Structural and Functional Properties
Authors: Hu Haobin , Liang Haipeng , Wang Yufeng , Yuan Runan , Sun Jiao , Zhang Lala , Lu Yani
Published: April 2021

The ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) parameters of total water‐soluble polysaccharides (TABPs) from Acanthopanaxbrachypus fruit were optimized by Box‐Behnken design (BBD) and response surface methodology (RSM). Physicochemical, structural, and functional properties of TABPs were investigated by chemical analysis, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), water‐holding capacity (WHC), oil‐holding capacity (OHC), emulsion capacity (EC), emulsion stability (ES), as well as DPPH. and ABTS.+scavenging assays. The results showed that the maximal UAE‐yield of TABPs was 3.81±0.18 % under the optimal conditions (ultrasonic power 325 W, extraction temperature 47 °C, extraction time 22 min). TABPs was rich in some beneficial element (Mg, K, Fe, Zn and Na) but little in harmful elements (Hg, Cd, As and Pb), and displayed rough surface with flake‐like features and large dents, contained 93.89±0.08 % of total carbohydrate with more different monosaccharides including glucose, galactose, rhamnose, arabinose, mannose, xylose, and uronic acid in a molar ratio of 8.83 : 7.90 : 4.74 : 4.55 : 2.80 : 2.39 : 1.00, respectively. TABPs exhibited broad weight distribution (11.2–133.5 kDa), excellent thermal stability (>280 °C), WHC (0.61±0.08 g water/g sample) and OHC (4.53±0.12 g oil/g sample), as well as higher EC (43.75±1.23 %) and ES (38.32±1.50 %). Furthermore, TABPs also displayed remarkable scavenging activities on DPPH. and ABTS.+ in vitro. These findings provide a scientific basis for the applications of TABPs in functional additives for food, medicine, and cosmetics.
Edge‐Confined Pt1/MoS2 Single‐Atom Catalyst Promoting the Selective Activation of Carbon‐Oxygen Bond
Authors: Lou Yang , Zhao Yi , Liu Hong , Gu Qingqing , Yang Bing , Shi Yujie , Yao Tingyi , Yang Bo
Published: April 2021

Selective activation of carbon‐oxygen bonds (like C−O and C=O) represents an essential part of the biomass conversion, but it is difficult to selectively activating the inert carbon‐oxygen bonds. We report 2D MoS2 edges confined single Pt atoms efficiently catalyze biomass‐derived crotonaldehyde to crotyl alcohol with selectivity from 90 to 100 %. The Pt1/MoS2 single‐atom catalysts have a unique HO−Mo−S−Pt1−S−Mo−OH configuration, reminiscent of an enzyme pocket‐like active site, which restricts the adsorption configuration of crotonaldehyde by a steric hindrance effect. The Pt1 atoms possess unique electronic structures due to the Pt1‐S4 configuration, which easily dissociates H2 to H species and boosts the activity. The activated H species spillover and react with O atoms on edges, forming OH and creating the HO−Mo−S−Pt1−S−Mo−OH configuration, which restricts the adsorption configuration of crotonaldehyde and yields high selectivity. The tactics of fabricating pocket‐like active sites with metal single atoms and 2D nanosheet edges shed a light on developing highly selective catalysts for biomass conversion reactions.
High‐Performance Flexible Micro‐Supercapacitors Printed on Textiles for Powering Wearable Electronics
Authors: Guo Hua , Jiang Zhen , Ren Dayong , Li Shengxia , Wang Jialin , Cai Xiaobing , Zhang Dongxing , Guo Qiuquan , Xiao Junfeng , Yang Jun
Published: April 2021

Invited for this month's cover picture is Dr. Dayong Ren and collaborators from Shanghai University, Shanghai Mifang Tech., and University of Western Ontario. The picture shows a running man wearing a T‐shirt with printed miniaturized power sources. The printed power sources have salient features including shape conformability and convenient integration with devices. Also, these wearable electronics could act as the power sources for flexible sensors, displays, and others. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.202100100.
A unique window of opportunity for practical reform of cancer clinical trials
Authors: Vogl Dan T. , Sallée Vicki , Hendricks Maria C. , Redlinger Tabery Colleen , Blair Meghan L. , Dahlmeier Erica , Meagher Emma A. , Cohen Roger B. , Vonderheide Robert H.
Published: April 2021

With rapid modifications in cancer clinical trial operations necessitated by the global pandemic over the last year, there is now an unprecedented opportunity to reform clinical research permanently and solidify innovative practices that have clearly been effective. On the basis of the authors' experience and recommendations from other institutions, a set of specific proposals for clinical trial reform are identified that can be implemented immediately by sponsors, regulators, and study sites. Improvements in clinical trial processes should include increased leverage of technology to facilitate remote trial activity and electronic documents, more efficient and effective communication of adverse event information, and better study design to optimize inclusion criteria, required research procedures, and data collection. The authors suggest that such reform will preserve patient safety and study integrity, address unnecessary and inefficient pre‐pandemic constraints, improve access to clinical trials for patients, and speed improvements in cancer care.
The Effects of Electronegativity of X and Hybridization of C on the X−C⋅⋅⋅O Interactions: A Statistical Analysis on Tetrel Bonding
Authors: Veluthaparambath Ragima V. P. , Saha Arijit , Saha Binoy K.
Published: April 2021

Cone and distance‐cone corrected statistical analyses have been performed on X−C⋅⋅⋅O (X=H, B, C, N, O and F; the C atom is sp2 and sp3 hybridized) tetrel bonds. The sp3‐C and sp2‐C prefer to form the interactions through σ‐hole (∠XCO≈180°) and π‐hole (∠XCO≈90°), respectively. With the increase in electronegativity of X, the preference for the particular angles of the respective geometries increases and the C⋅⋅⋅O distance becomes shorter. The angular preference is found to be more prominent in the cases of π‐hole interactions than that in the σ‐hole interactions. A similar distance‐cone corrected statistical analysis on O=C⋅⋅⋅O interaction also suggests that the preferred ∠OCO angle is ∼90° and the preferred C⋅⋅⋅O distance is around the sum of van der Waals radii (3.22 Å) of the C and O atoms. However, a cone‐corrected statistical analysis on X−Si⋅⋅⋅O interactions suggests that the preference for linearity in this case is much higher than that for the X−C⋅⋅⋅O σ‐hole interactions.
Preparation of Tetrabenzo[4.4.2]undecastarphene by On‐Surface Synthesis
Authors: Jancarik Andrej , Khanh Hung Nguyen , Skidin Dmitry , Moresco Francesca , Gourdon Andre
Published: April 2021

A large dissymmetric starphene molecule, the tetrabenzo[a,c,u,w]naphtho[2,3‐l]nonaphene, was obtained by first preparing a soluble precursor which was then sublimated on a Au(111) surface in an ultra‐high vacuum. In a second step, controlled annealings from 200 °C to 275 °C initiated two successive cyclodehydrogenation steps with the formation of 3 new carbon‐carbon bonds. A second conformer was also stable enough during the annealing step to give another compound in similar yield, the benzodibenzo[7,8,9,10]naphthaceno[2,1‐h]phenanthro[9,10‐p]hexaphene. The formation of this more‐hindered species stresses the importance of strong molecule‐surface interactions during the cyclodehydrogenations steps of these large polyaromatic hydrocarbons.
Steric Hindrance‐ and Work Function‐Promoted High Performance for Electrochemical CO Methanation on Antisite Defects of MoS2 and WS2
Authors: Yao Xue , Chen Zhi‐Wen , Liu Guo‐Jun , Lang Xing‐You , Zhu Yong‐Fu , Gao Wang , Jiang Qing
Published: April 2021

CO methanation from electrochemical CO reduction reaction (CORR) is significant for sustainable environment and energy, but electrocatalysts with excellent selectivity and activity are still lacking. Selectivity is sensitive to the structure of active sites, and activity can be tailored by work function. Moreover, intrinsic active sites usually possess relatively high concentration compared to artificial ones. Here, antisite defects MoS2 and WS2, intrinsic atomic defects of MoS2 and WS2 with a transition metal atom substituting a S2 column, were investigated for CORR by density functional theory calculations. The steric hindrance from the special bowl structure of MoS2 and WS2 ensured good selectivity towards CO methanation. Coordination environment variation of the active sites, the under‐coordinated Mo or W atoms, effectively lowered the work function, making MoS2 and WS2 highly active for CO methanation with the required potential of −0.47 and −0.49 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode, respectively. Moreover, high concentration of active sites and minimal structural deformation during the catalytic process of MoS2 and WS2 enhanced their attraction for future commercial application.
The hydrology of treed wetlands in thawing discontinuous permafrost regions
Authors: Disher Brenden S. , Connon Ryan F. , Haynes Kristine M. , Hopkinson Christopher , Quinton William L.
Published: April 2021

In peatland‐dominated regions of discontinuous permafrost, widespread permafrost thaw has led to an expansion of treed wetlands on the landscape. Treed wetlands have greater topographic variation than the collapse scar wetlands from which they evolved, but their hydrological role in the landscape has not been identified. This study examines the development of treed wetlands, and characterises their physical, thermal and hydrological properties in relation to their adjacent peat plateaus and collapse scar wetlands. Electrical resistivity tomography was used to determine the geophysical characteristics of treed wetlands. Snow cover, soil moisture and temperature, as well as water level and storm response were monitored and compared in treed wetlands, plateaus and collapse scars. Treed wetlands were permafrost free, although unlike collapse scars they may contain multi‐year ice bulbs. For treed wetlands, the late‐winter snow water equivalent, average soil temperature and moisture, unsaturated layer thickness and duration of frozen ground were all intermediate between those of peat plateaus and collapse scars. Treed wetlands interact hydrologically with adjacent peat plateaus and collapse scars in one of two types of local flow sequences depending upon topographic position, which governs the potential role of treed wetlands as a thermal buffer if treed wetlands are situated between a collapse scar wetland and permafrost‐cored peat plateau. As permafrost thaw reduces the cover of both peat plateaus and the collapse scar wetlands that develop from them, the development and expansion of treed wetlands appear to be transitioning plateau‐wetland complexes into the permafrost‐free black spruce forest.
Comprehensive efforts result in high enrollment, retention despite pandemic, hurricanes
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: April 2021

A global pandemic and two hurricanes in two weeks. That's enough disaster to daunt even the staunchest college officials. But the leadership team and staff at SOWELA Technical Community College met the challenges, building on a retention rate of 75.06% from spring to fall 2020, to achieve an 83.71% retention rate from fall 2020 to spring 2021, the highest of any community college in Louisiana.
Increased cognitive flexibility mediates the improvement of eating disorders symptoms, depressive symptoms and level of daily life functioning in patients with anorexia nervosa treated in specialised centres
Authors: Duriez Philibert , Kaya Lefèvre Héline , Di Lodovico Laura , Viltart Odile , Gorwood Philip
Published: April 2021

Objective

Poor cognitive flexibility has been highlighted in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN), contributing to the development and maintenance of symptoms. The aim of the present study is to investigate how enhanced cognitive flexibility is involved in treatment outcomes in patients with AN.

Method

One hundred thirty female out‐patients treated for AN have been assessed at baseline and after 4 months of treatment. Path analyses were used to investigate the mediating role of cognitive flexibility, measured through the Brixton test, on a wide range of outcomes: body mass index, eating disorder symptoms, daily life functioning, anxiety, depression, emotions, self‐rated silhouette.

Results

Cognitive flexibility was improved during treatment, and enhanced cognitive flexibility explains a significant part of level of the improvement in daily life functioning (26%), reduction of eating disorder symptoms (18%) and reduction of depressive symptoms (17%). Others outcomes were also improved, but these improvements were not mediated by cognitive flexibility.

Conclusions

Results suggest that enhancing cognitive flexibility could help reduce rigid cognitive and behavioural patterns involved in AN, thus improving everyday functioning and clinical severity. Further studies combining different types of cognitive flexibility evaluation as well as neuroimaging may be necessary to better establish which of its aspects are involved in patients' improvement.
Comparison of Multiple Linear Regression and Biotic Ligand Models to Predict the Toxicity of Nickel to Aquatic Freshwater Organisms
Authors: Croteau Kelly , Ryan Adam C. , Santore Robert , DeForest David , Schlekat Christian , Middleton Elizabeth , Garman Emily
Published: April 2021

Toxicity-modifying factors can be modeled either empirically with linear regression models or mechanistically, such as with the biotic ligand model (BLM). The primary factors affecting the toxicity of nickel to aquatic organisms are hardness, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and pH. Interactions between these terms were also considered. The present study develops multiple linear regressions (MLRs) with stepwise regression for 5 organisms in acute exposures, 4 organisms in chronic exposures, and pooled models for acute, chronic, and all data and compares the performance of the Pooled All MLR model to the performance of the BLM. Independent validation data were used for evaluating model performance, which for pooled models included data for organisms and endpoints not present in the calibration data set. Hardness and DOC were most often selected as the explanatory variables in the MLR models. An attempt was also made at evaluating the uncertainty of the predictions for each model; predictions that showed the most error tended to show the highest levels of uncertainty as well. The performances of the 2 models were largely equal, with differences becoming more apparent when looking at the performance within subsets of the data. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:2189–2205. © 2021 SETAC
Testing a Bite-Shortened Hook to Minimize Fish Handling in a Recreational Fishery
Authors: Harris Holden E , Whalen Brian K , Gude Andrew G , Allen Micheal S
Published: April 2021

Discard mortality can make fishing unsustainable, even in catch-and-release or highly regulated fisheries. However, fishing practices and gears that minimize hook injury, handling, and air exposure can considerably improve fitness and survival in released fish. This study tested whether modified hooks could allow anglers to successfully land and then release fish in the water and without handling. Standard, barbless, and bite-shortened hooks were used to catch Spotted Seatrout Cynoscion nebulosus (n > 75 per hook type), and logistic models were used to assess the differences in landing success and hook self-release success by hook type and categorical fish size. Average landing success was >90% with all three hook types. Bite-shortened hooks were able to successfully self-release from 87% of landed fish, compared to success rates of 47% using barbless hooks and 20% using standard hooks. Small fish had higher rates of both unintentional release during reel-in and intentional handling-free release boatside. Size selectivity by hook type was not observed. Continued gear testing of bite-shortened hooks appears warranted with other lure types, fish species, and a diversity of anglers. With further validation, self-releasing hooks could allow for recreational fishing opportunities in sensitive fisheries or areas, e.g., no-take aquatic reserves, with minimal discard effects.
A Practical Tax Policy to Fight Climate Change: The Utility Savings Account
Authors: Price Jason , Casagranda Blake
Published: April 2021

Underneath the labyrinth of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax rules is a sophisticated system designed to generate revenue for the government, redistribute wealth among US citizens, and motivate certain investment and consumer behavior. Government is empowered to choose what and how and whom to tax based on the nature and purpose of the proposed tax. In doing so, lawmakers attempt to be fair, equitable, and pro‐growth in setting tax policy. The application of tax policy to address climate change has been primarily focused on reducing the use of fossil fuels with more recent discussions considering the imposition of a tax on carbon. An alternative strategy to influence the public would be to modify the tax policy in the form of a pre‐taxable income benefit known as the Utility Savings Account (USA), where the term “Utility” includes electric, gas, heating oil, and energy efficiency and renewable energy services.
Decarbonization: Don't Forget the Customer
Authors: Rowland Mike
Published: April 2021

When organizations use the term decarbonization to explain the shift to using renewable energy for power generation or improving energy efficiency and load management, does it resonate with customers? Perhaps it does with commercial customers, but it might not with residential consumers. Too often communications focus on carbon credits, reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2), compliance with new regulations, and selling new services. This misses a very large opportunity to connect with and deliver value to customers. A recent 2021 Industry Outlook report provides insight into the complex issues of decarbonization facing utilities. Importantly, the report brings to light the nexus between social responsibility and public policy and delivering on the customer promise. In much of the media covering decarbonization and efforts utilities are taking, the customer is missing.
Health promotion in emerging collectivist communities: A study of dietary acculturation in the South Sudanese community in Logan City, Australia
Authors: Lanham Adeline , Lubari Edwin , Gallegos Danielle , Radcliffe Barbara
Published: April 2021

Issue addressed

Understanding dietary acculturation within collectivist communities is required to develop and tailor appropriate health promotion strategies to prevent diet‐related chronic diseases. This research explores the journey of the South Sudanese community living in Logan City, Australia in establishing new norms around food choices and practices over time.

Methods

Three semi‐structured group interviews and a final community forum of women (n = 20) from the South Sudanese community were conducted. These explored changes in and influences on dietary practices post‐settlement. Sessions were recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed using inductive and deductive approaches. Feedback on findings from participants and community members was incorporated.

Results

Participants reported dietary acculturation phases, including assimilation, reflection and separation, with a return to traditional foods over time. Factors influencing the transition between phases included; the characteristics of the collectivist community such as shared knowledge, experiences and resources, increased accessibility to traditional foods, and increased food and health literacy as responses to emerging diet‐related health issues.

Conclusions

The Logan City South Sudanese community has navigated a new and complex food environment with positive long‐term dietary outcomes; however, the initial decline in health due to poor diet on arrival may have been prevented.

So what?

Early intervention and culturally appropriate health promotion strategies that are co‐designed and tailored to the characteristics and strengths of newly settled collectivist communities are needed. These should promote the benefits of healthy traditional food habits, while assisting communities to successfully navigate a new food environment.
Significance of Hall effect on heat and mass transport of titanium alloy‐water‐based nanofluid flow past a vertical surface with IMF effect
Authors: Singh Jitendra Kumar , Kolasani Suneetha , Savanur Vishwanath
Published: April 2021

In this mathematical presentation, we examined the significance of Hall current on MHD buoyancy‐driven boundary layer flow of a Ti6Al4V‐H2O based nanofluid past a vertical surface implanted in a uniform permeable region. The vertical surface is considered to be magnetized and induced magnetic field (IMF) impacts are also considered. The nondimensional flow model is solved with the assistance of the two‐term perturbation scheme. Various results are obtained by numerical computation for different significant parameters. These results are presented and analyzed in graphical and tabular form. In the boundary layer domain, the transpiration velocity across the surface tends to diminish the main flow, IMF along the main flow, fluid temperature, and concentration. It is remarkably noted that IMF along the main flow grows for incrementing values of volume fraction coefficient of nanofluid. In the magnetic boundary layer domain, the main flow and IMF along the main flow grow with Hall current. Furthermore, it is seen that for the progressing values of magnetic Prandtl number, the main flow reduces while normal flow and IMF along the main flow is induced in the boundary layer domain.
A simple U‐shaped device with a superhydrophobic coating used to sort droplets by surface tension
Authors: Feng Rui , Li Xin‐Ming , Wang Lin , Li Wan‐Yuan , Zhang Yu‐Ping
Published: April 2021

Manipulation of droplets is an issue of great interest and challenge in microfluidics and chemical analysis domains. Herein, an ethanol suspension of beeswax and TiO2 (25 ± 5 nm), and SiO2 (7–40 nm) nanoparticles was sprayed on the surface of a self‐fabricated U‐shaped device. The resulted superhydrophobic coating enabled liquid droplets to roll back and forth in the groove of semicircular arc freely. According to the apparent difference of whole rolling distance, liquid droplets with less difference of surface tension were distinguished and sorted precisely. More importantly, the elegant analytical device was used to determine the surface tension for some typical food liquids and a relative error less than 5% was obtained, compared with the results measured by the contact angle goniometer. It could be used potentially as a simple, fast, and inexpensive diagnostic platform to sort liquid droplets and determine their surface tension values quantitatively.
Copper porphyrin‐catalyzed C(sp2)—O bond construction via coupling phenols with formamides
Authors: Yang Shuang , Chen Xiao‐Yan , Xiong Ming‐Feng , Zhang Hao , Shi Lei , Lin Dong‐Zi , Liu Hai‐Yang
Published: April 2021

Copper porphyrin‐catalyzed construction of C(sp2)—O bond via coupling formamides with phenols was achieved firstly. A broad range of substrates afforded various carbamates in moderate to good yields with good functional group tolerance at low catalyst loading. Intermolecular competing kinetic isotope effect experiment indicated that the generation of formamide radical is the rate‐determining step of current cross‐dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) reaction. The research extends the application of metalloporphyrin in CDC reaction.