bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polytrichum formosum and Vaccinium myrtillus as Phytoindicators of Pollutants from Long-Range Emissions of Environmentally Important Protected Areas (The Tatra National Park, the Central Western Carpathians, Poland)
Authors: Korzeniowska Joanna
Published: September 2021

The study determined the influence of altitude on the content of heavy metals in selected plant species of the Tatra National Park (TNP). The metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn) were identified in two species of plants, i.e., in the moss (Polytrichum formosum Hedw.) and in the blueberry leaves (Vaccinium myrtillus L.). Plant samples were collected in two test areas every 100 meters of altitude of the area, starting from 1,000 m above sea level in the Lake Morskie Oko test area and from 1,100 m above sea level in the Kasprowy Wierch test area, and ending at 1,400 m above sea level for Lake Morskie Oko and 1,550 m above sea level for Kasprowy Wierch. The two test areas are different from each other in terms of natural and physico-geographical conditions (geological structure, landform, climatic conditions, etc.). The conducted research shows that the content of heavy metals in the studied species of plants increases with the altitude above sea level. Both P. formosum Hedw and V. myrtillus L. can be good phytoindicators in mountainous areas. In the tested plant species, the contents of heavy metals were also found to be higher than the natural contents, which is most likely related to long-range emission. Long-distance transport of pollutants causes that important natural protected areas, such as the Tatra National Park, are exposed to excessive pollution, including the accumulation of heavy metals in plants.
Enroller Experience and Parental Familiarity of Disease Influence Participation in a Pediatric Trial
Authors: Schunk Jeff , Jacobsen Kammy , Stephens Dilon , Watson Amy , Olsen Cody , Casper T. Charles , Glaser Nicole , Kuppermann Nathan
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Acquiring parental consent is critical to pediatric clinical research, especially in interventional trials. In this study we investigated demographic, clinical, and environmental factors associated with likelihood of parental permission for enrollment in a study of therapies for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in children.

Methods: We analyzed data from patients and parents who were approached for enrollment in the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) Fluid Therapies Under Investigation in DKA (FLUID) trial at one major participating center. We determined the influence of various factors on patient enrollment, including gender, age, distance from home to hospital, insurance status, known vs new onset of diabetes, glycemic control (hemoglobin A1c), DKA severity, gender of the enroller, experience of the enroller, and time of enrollment. Patients whose parents consented to participate were compared to those who declined participation using bivariable and multivariable analyses controlling for the enroller.

Results: A total of 250 patient/parent dyads were approached; 177 (71%) agreed to participate, and 73 (29%) declined. Parents of patients with previous episodes of DKA agreed to enroll more frequently than those with a first DKA episode (94.3% for patients with 1-2 previous DKA episodes, 92.3% for > 2 previous episodes, vs 64.9% for new onset diabetes and 63.2% previously diagnosed but no previous DKA). Participation was also more likely with more experienced enrollers (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] of participation for an enroller with more than two years’ experience vs less than two years: 2.46 [1.53, 3.97]). After adjusting for demographic and clinical factors, significant associations between participation and both DKA history and enroller experience remained. Patient age, gender, distance of home from hospital, glycemic control, insurance status, and measures of DKA severity were not associated with likelihood of participation.

Conclusion: Familiarity with the disease process (previously diagnosed diabetes and previous experience with DKA) and experience of the enroller favorably influenced the likelihood of parental permission for enrollment in a study of DKA in children.
A Clinical Prediction Tool for MRI in Emergency Department Patients with Spinal Infection
Authors: Shroyer Steven , Davis William , April Michael , Long Brit , Boys Greg , Mehta Sumeru , Mercaldo Sarah
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Patients with pyogenic spinal Infection (PSI) are often not diagnosed at their initial presentation, and diagnostic delay is associated with increased morbidity and medical-legal risk. We derived a decision tool to estimate the risk of spinal infection and inform magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) decisions.

Methods: We conducted a two-part prospective observational cohort study that collected variables from spine pain patients over a six-year derivation phase. We fit a multivariable regression model with logistic coefficients rounded to the nearest integer and used them for variable weighting in the final risk score. This score, SIRCH (spine infection risk calculation heuristic), uses four clinical variables to predict PSI. We calculated the statistical performance, MRI utilization, and model fit in the derivation phase. In the second phase we used the same protocol but enrolled only confirmed cases of spinal infection to assess the sensitivity of our prediction tool.

Results: In the derivation phase, we evaluated 134 non-PSI and 40 PSI patients; median age in years was 55.5 (interquartile range [IQR] 38-70 and 51.5 (42-59), respectively. We identified four predictors for our risk score: historical risk factors; fever; progressive neurological deficit; and C-reactive protein (CRP) ≥ 50 milligrams per liter (mg/L). At a threshold SIRCH score of ≥ 3, the predictive model’s sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value were, respectively, as follows: 100% (95% confidence interval [CI], 100-100%); 56% (95% CI, 48-64%), and 40% (95% CI, 36-46%). The area under the receiver operator curve was 0.877 (95% CI, 0.829-0.925). The SIRCH score at a threshold of ≥ 3 would prompt significantly fewer MRIs compared to using an elevated CRP (only 99/174 MRIs compared to 144/174 MRIs, P <0.001). In the second phase (49 patient disease-only cohort), the sensitivities of the SIRCH score and CRP use (laboratory standard cut-off 3.5 mg/L) were 92% (95% CI, 84-98%), and 98% (95% CI, 94-100%), respectively.

Conclusion: The SIRCH score provides a sensitive estimate of spinal infection risk and prompts fewer MRIs than elevated CRP (cut-off 3.5 mg/L) or clinician suspicion.
COVID-19 in Children: Do They Have a Lower Risk of Severe Infection Than Adults?
Authors: Amiri Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2021

: The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which was first identified in Wuhan, China, in late 2019, has now spread around the world. It significantly affects the lower respiratory tract, and pneumonia is always present in patients with the severe form of the disease. Many studies have shown that the severity of COVID-19 is lower in pediatric populations. It is important to determine why infants and young children are not severely affected by COVID-19. By increasing our awareness of this disease, we can prioritize our limited health resources. Several theories have been proposed to explain such significant differences between the pediatric and adult populations with COVID-19. Some of them are: (1) the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2); (2) cross-immunity with other severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-like viruses; (3) obtunded systemic inflammatory response in children; (4) more efficient T cells in them; (5) interactions of SARS-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) with other viruses in the mucosa of the lungs and airways; and (6) a hypothesis that COVID-19 proteins onslaught the heme on the β-1 chain of hemoglobin. The important thing to keep in mind is that the asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic pediatrics are crucial in the spread of COVID-19.
Association of HLA Class II Alleles with Outcome of Hepatitis C Virus Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Ghaderi-Zefrehi Hossein , Gholami-Fesharaki Mohammad , Ghorbanzadeh Amir , Sadeghi Farzin
Published: September 2021

Context: Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection is a major cause of chronic cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Approximately 30% of infected persons with HCV spontaneously clear the viral infection; but, some of the remaining patients develop chronic HCV. Studies show that HLA molecules play an important role in the outcome of HCV infection by influencing the efficiency of the antiviral immune response to HCV infection. It is now known that polymorphisms in HLA loci are associated with HCV susceptibility or clearance. The purpose of the present study was to systematically review the studies that reported the association of HLA class II alleles (HLA-DQ and HLA-DR) with the outcome of HCV infection. Evidence Acquisition: Studies were identified by searching electronic databases, including PubMed and Scopus. A total of 12,265 relevant studies were identified by the electronic search, of which a total of 19 eligible papers were identified that were meta-analyzed for the association between HLA class II alleles and the outcome of HCV infection. Results: Subjects carrying HLA-DQB1*0301, HLA-DQB1*0501, HLA-DRB1*1303, HLA-DRB1*1201, HLA-DRB1*0401, HLA-DRB1*0101, and HLA-DRB1*1101 alleles were significantly associated with higher spontaneous clearance of HCV infection. Conclusions: The data from the current study confirm that several polymorphisms in HLA-DQ and HLA-DR loci are correlated with the clearance of HCV infection. Identifying these polymorphisms may contribute to a better understanding of immune mechanisms of HCV clearance or persistence.
Maternal Emotional States in Relation to Offspring Weight and Health-Related Quality of Life: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Parvin Parnian , Amiri Parisa , Jalali-Farahani Sara , Karimi Mehrdad , Moein Eslam Mina , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: September 2021

Background: Maternal characteristics have been known to be associated with parenting practices, which could eventually influence their child’s weight and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Objectives: This study aimed to assess the direct and indirect associations of maternal emotional states (depression, anxiety, and stress) with body mass index (BMI) and HRQoL in their children. Methods: This study was conducted within the framework of the Tehran lipid and glucose study (TLGS). Participants were the children (n = 231) enrolled in TLGS during 2014 - 2016, who had complete data on maternal emotional states. The body weight and height of children were measured using the standard protocol, and BMI Z-score was determined using Anthroplus. Also, HRQoL in children and emotional states in mothers were assessed using the Iranian version of the pediatric quality of life inventory (PedsQLTM4.0) and the depression, anxiety, and stress scale (DASS-21), respectively. Structural equations modeling (SEM) was used to assess the direct and indirect relations of maternal emotional states with children’s BMI Z-score and HRQoL. Results: Mean age, BMI Z-score, and HRQoL total score in children were 13.8 ± 3.1 years, 0.74 ± 1.5, and 84.7 ± 11.3, respectively. In the mothers, median DASS-21 scores (interquartile ranges) in the three scales of depression, anxiety, and stress were 4 (0 - 10), 6 (2 - 12), and 14 (8 - 20), respectively. Maternal level of education was significantly associated with the DASS-21 score (β = -0.23, 95% CI: -0.37,-0.07). Maternal DASS-21 score was significantly associated with BMI Z-score only in girls (β = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.53). Significant determinants of HRQoL in boys were the child’s age (β = -0.21, 95% CI: -0.40, -0.01) and maternal education (β = -0.24, 95%CI: -0.44, -0.02) and emotional state (β = -0.24, 95% CI: -0.44, -0.03). The child’s age (β = -0.33, 95% CI: -0.53, -0.10) and maternal emotional state (β = -0.31, 95% CI: -0.54, -0.08) were significantly associated with HRQoL in girls. Conclusions: The maternal emotional state is an important determinant of HRQoL in children, regardless of their weight status. Further research is recommended to examine the current hypothesized model in rural and suburban populations, taking into consideration more influential factors.
Frequency of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Its Patterns in Families of Children with OCD in Rafsanjan, 2016
Authors: Agha Mohammad Hasani Parvin , Mokhtaree Mohammadreza , Nazer Mohammad , Mirzaei Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2021

Background: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is one of the common psychiatric disorders among children and adolescents that can be created by both genetic and environmental factors. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the frequency of OCD and its patterns in families with OCD children. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 95 children and adolescents with OCD who were referred to the Psychology Clinic of Rafsanjan, Iran, in 2016 were enrolled by a convenience sampling method. The research tool was an obsessive-compulsive questionnaire (children form), and interviews were also carried out with the patients to find the deterioration of the symptoms in them and/or their families. Data were presented and analyzed by mean ± SD, frequency, and Chi-square test. The level of significance was 0.05. Results: The highest frequency of OCD patterns was washing, Checking, and doubt. 36.7% of fathers and 56.1% of mothers had one of obsessive-compulsive disorder patterns. Meanwhile, the most common pattern observed in the parents was cleaning. In total, 79.6% of the paternal families and 87.7% of the maternal families of the patients had OCD. Moreover, a significant relationship was observed in the levels of OCD between children and mothers (P = 0.027), whereas no significant association was detected between the OCD of children and that of their parents. Conclusions: Family history (especially maternal family) plays a significant role in OCD development, which is indicative of the transmission pattern of multifactorial traits, while the heritability of OCD is still not determined.
Formulation and Physicochemical Evaluation of a 3% Cream Using Crude 70% Ethanolic Extract of Morus alba L. Leaves for Skin Hyperpigmentation
Authors: Edalatian Zakeri Shahab , Hadjiakhoondi Abbas , Ahmad Nasrollahi Saman , Vazirian Mahdi , Naeimifar Atefeh
Published: September 2021

Background: Treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders is a challenge because of the side effects of current topical treatments. Thus, research for potent alternatives, especially of herbal origin, with comparable potency and less side effects is ongoing. Morus alba L. is a perennial plant with multiple established pharmacological effects, including antimelanogenesis effect. This effect has been demonstrated from different parts of the plant, including twigs, root barks, and leaves by measuring tyrosinase inhibition, melanin content, and melanin index, and it has been attributed to phenolic compounds such as oxyresveratrol and moracin M, to name a few. However, no study has considered formulating the total phenolic compounds from the leaves of this plant so far. Objectives: The aim of this study was to extract phenolic compounds of leaves with repeated maceration using 70% ethanol, formulate the crude extract, inspect its physicochemical stability under accelerated conditions, and assay for microbial growth and active phenolic compounds. Methods: Total phenolic compounds were extracted using 70% ethanol with repeated maceration, and then they were concentrated. The extract was then assayed for total phenolic content using Folin-Ciocalteu’s reagent. A 3% cream of this extract was manufactured, and its physicochemical parameters, microbial growth, preservative effectiveness, and total phenolic content were examined. Results: The prepared 3% cream was completely stable and homogeneous during the accelerated conditions and passed the physicochemical, total phenolic content, and microbial tests. Conclusions: The manufactured cream is a promising formulation for in vivo use as a skin lightening agent.
Support and Enrichment Experiences in Mathematics (SEE Math): Using Case Studies to Improve Mathematics Teacher Education
Authors: Kalinec-Craig Crystal , Bonner Emily P. , Kelley Traci
Published: September 2021

This article describes an innovation in an elementary mathematics education course called SEE Math (Support and Enrichment Experiences in Mathematics), which aims to support teacher candidates (TCs) as they learn to teach mathematics through problem solving while promoting equity during multiple experiences with a child. During this 8-week program, TCs craft and implement tasks that promote problem solving in the context of a case study of a child’s thinking while collecting and analyzing student data to support future instructional decisions. The program culminates in a mock parent–teacher conference. Data samples show how SEE Math offers TCs an opportunity to focus on the nuances of children’s strengths rather than traditional measures of achievement and skill.
From Dissertation to Publication in Mathematics Teacher Educator
Authors: Hollebrands Karen , West Heather , Faulkner Valerie , Elrod Emily
Published: September 2021

In this editorial, we provide suggestions for authors who are preparing a manuscript for the Mathematics Teacher Educator journal that is based on a dissertation. We recommend that authors begin by examining their findings and identifying a focus that addresses a shared problem of practice for mathematics teacher educators. Authors should become familiar with the journal by reading editorials and related articles published in the journal. Finally, the Writing Tool can serve as a guide for preparing an outline for the manuscript, which can be shared with the editors and colleagues for feedback.
The Human as Encounter: Karl Barth’s Theological Anthropology and a Barthian Vision of the Common Good
Authors: Durheim Benjamin
Published: September 2021

Karl Barth was one of the most influential theologians of the 20th century. Although he was prolific on many topics in theology, he is not often thought of as articulating a vision of the common good. This project attempts to glean from Barth’s theology the building blocks for such a vision, and takes some initial steps toward actually building it, given the material Barth provides. The paper begins by exploring the way Barth constructs his theological anthropology, arguing that its central theme is what he calls “encounter,” characterized by four main elements: seeing eye-to-eye, exchanging speech and hearing, giving and receiving assistance, and doing all these things in a spirit of gladness. The paper then progresses to build on his theological anthropology a structure for envisioning the common good. Claiming that Barth’s concept of encounter provides the nexus between his theological anthropology, social ethics, and what I claim would be a Barthian vision of the common good, the paper finishes by teasing out two main elements of such a vision: societal interactions as the Barthian encounter, and the relationship of the Church and society as a similar encounter.
Millennium Development Goals and Catholic Social Teaching: Ongoing Responsibility and Response
Authors: O'Sullivan James
Published: September 2021

This paper begins by making a case for the congruence between core ideals of Catholic Social Teaching (CST) and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which aim to confront global poverty in a multifaceted approach and were entered into by a vast majority of the international community at the beginning of this millennium.  Then the paper goes on to argue that given the current danger of falling short of the Goals’ 2015 deadline and because the MDGs so clearly forward key aspects of CST, the Catholic Bishops and the Vatican need to redouble efforts to increase the commitment of both developed and developing nations.  Finally, the author concludes that failing to do so is morally unacceptable.
Suffering Our Way to Salvation: Ivone Gebara, Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza, and the Adequacy of the Cross as a Symbol for Women
Authors: Chapman Amy
Published: September 2021

This article explores the theologies of the cross and salvation put forth by Brazilian liberation theologian Ivone Gebara and American theologian Elizabeth Schüssler Fiorenza.  Both scholars depart from a traditional Anselmian theology of the cross and salvation, holding that for some women Anselm’s understanding is insufficient.  Both theologians claim that within Anselm’s theology of the cross and salvation is the understanding that suffering is necessary for salvation.  Wishing to dispute that, Gebara examines the lived experiences of women while Schüssler Fiorenza focuses on references from scripture.  Both women arrive at the conclusion that the cross proves to be an inadequate symbol for salvation for some women, and Schüssler Fiorenza provides the empty tomb as an alternative symbol.
The Consciousness and Human Knowledge of Christ According to Lonergan and Balthasar
Authors: Pidel S.J. Aaron
Published: September 2021

Bernard Lonergan and Hans Urs von Balthasar both gave considerable attention to the consciousness and human knowledge of Christ.  In their respective treatments of this topic, both theologians evince common tendencies.  Both are at pains to develop a model of Christ’s human consciousness that 1) avoids the impression of psychological dualism, 2) acknowledges Christ to be a unique comprehensor (beholder) of the divine nature, and yet 3) shows Christ to be a true viator (wayfarer), learning and discerning in a genuinely human fashion.  Lonergan does this through his model of “ineffable knowledge,” and Balthasar through “mission consciousness.”  On the face of it, they seem to disagree as to whether Christ possessed the so-called visio beata (beatific vision)—with Lonergan answering affirmatively and Balthasar answering negatively.  Nonetheless, because they understand the meaning of this attribution differently, it seems likely they are divided more at the level of verbal formulation than at the level of conceptual judgment.  Both consciousness Christologies prove convergent and complementary.
Trauma and Zion: Narrative Healing
Authors: Johnson Joshua
Published: September 2021

Interfacing the work of Paul Ricoeur on time, narrative, and identity with that of Judith Herman on trauma, this paper explores the ways in which the prophetic book of Ezekiel and the pseudepigraphal book 4 Ezra spoke to the needs of ancient Jews in times of crisis by offering a realm in which readers could symbolically play out their trauma, experience catharsis, and reconfigure the greatest hopes of Israel.
Mentoring in a Catholic High School: The Movement to Receive
Authors: Pang Alfred KM
Published: September 2021

This paper explores the dynamics that underlie the process of mentoring high-school students, with Catholic Junior College in Singapore as a site of practice. Using Luke’s journey narrative of Jesus’ walk with the two disciples to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35), it proposes a Christological framework that construes the relational practice of mentoring as involving four movements - receiving, blessing, breaking and giving. Within the limited scope of this paper, I focus specifically on the movement of receiving: What does it mean to receive a young person as a mentee? In what manner can a teacher-mentor receive the young person? What practical strategies can teacher-mentors employ to help them ‘see’ where the young person is at?
Thoughts on the Experience of God in the Theology of Karl Rahner: Gifts and Implications
Authors: Steinmetz Mary
Published: September 2021

This paper explores the concept of encounter with God in the writings of Karl Rahner and its relevance for academic study and spiritual practice today.  Because Rahner addresses the experience of Ultimate Mystery in a variety of ways, through academic writings, prayers and short articles, examples are taken from the breadth of this legacy.  Particular attention is given to the possible applications of his understanding of the experience of God for Christians today and consideration of the potential of his ideas for addressing the academic theology/spirituality split as well as the deep longing for tangible experience in the lives of many Christians. Rahner’s value for feminist theology is also addressed.
Nicodemus-An Encounter
Authors: Johnson Joshua
Published: September 2021

This paper offers an exegesis and interpretation of John 3:1-15, Jesus' encounter with Nicodemus, one of the gospel's most memorable characters. Central to this discussion will be the significance of the symbol of rebirth. Engaging the text using traditional approaches and aided by philosophical hermeneutics, we shall see that the Nicodemus story offers the reader a reconfiguration of reality as Nicodemus is invited to be born again by receiving Jesus.
Girard and the Millennials: New Perspectives on Evangelization
Authors: Sutherland, SJ Philip
Published: September 2021

René Girard in conversation with Charles Taylor can help us to analyze the connection between violence and religion. Girard’s lens of mimetic desire helps to clarify how Jesus was the anti-sacrifice who desired to end the scapegoat mechanism. Taylor provides a lens on the transcendent and its sometimes hidden presence in our secular world. People are constantly feeling the cross pressures between a closed immanent frame and an openness to fulfillment outside of one’s self. Taylor’s analysis becomes concrete in the sociological research regarding Millennials and their ambivalence toward organized religion. Many young adults today are seeking the transcendent but have no idea how to find it. Additionally, they are wary of the divisiveness of religion and many view religion as but another contributor to an already violent world. However, Boeve’s image of theology as interruption gives us a lens with which to see Girard’s narrative as God’s interruption of human history. This interruption demands an equally serious, committed response. Such a demanding and meaningful narrative can be attractive to Millennials who generally view religion as simply one equally meaningless choice among others.
Recommendations for improving the effectiveness of measures of administrative responsibility of legal entities and officials in the sphere of road traffic
Authors: Batenov Fazil' Kubaidullaevich
Published: September 2021

The object of this research is the system of public legal relations in the area ensuring road safety. The subject of this research is the legal norms that regulate the measures of administrative responsibility of legal entities and officials in the sphere of road traffic. The goal lies in examination of the normative legal framework that regulates the measures of administrative responsibility of legal entities and officials in the area of road traffic, as well as in formulation of recommendations for improving their effectiveness. Research methodology relies on the fundamental provisions of the theory of law; general scientific methods of analysis, synthesis, and deduction; special scientific methods, such as formal-legal and comparative legal. The novelty of this article consists in the development of specific recommendations for enhancing the measures of administrative responsibility of legal entities and officials in the area of road traffic: escalation of the measures of administrative liability set by the Article 12.32 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Russian Federation for legal entities that conclude contracts with medical institutions; extension of the principle of responsibility of legal the entity for unlawful actions of their employees and to other administrative offenses of the Chapter 12 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Russian Federation; extension of the content of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Russian Federation by the articles establishing administrative responsibility of legal entities and officials for administrative offenses associated with operation of highly or fully automated vehicles.
Possibilities of revising the modern world order
Authors: Veselov Yuriy Aleksandrovich
Published: September 2021

The object of this research is a polemical question within the theory of international relations – the transformation of world orders. The author believes that this work is a compromise in the long-lasting scientific dispute on the principles of the end of one world order and the beginning of the new world order. Description is given to the current world order of international relations, its characteristics and reference points. The key goal of this research consists in theoretical substantiation of various aspects of the possible shift of the current world order. The article indicates certain untenable aspects of the current world order, and outlines the possibilities of its revision from the perspective of the three fundamental theoretical paradigms of international relations. The goal is set to arrange the anarchically disparate representations on the system of international relation, and derive a comprehensible, uniform structure, which also defines the novelty of the conducted research. It is claimed that since the end of the World War II, the international relations have existed in the form of Yalta-Potsdam system, which at this point indicates the three world orders, including since dissolution of the Soviet Union. Emphasis is placed on the issue of hegemony of the United States and the idea of unipolar world striving for multipolarity. The author’s special contribution lies in comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon under consideration, which incorporates numerous articles of the reputable publishers and experts who have already dealt with the difficult theoretical problem in the theory of international relations.
Distinct population code for movement kinematics and changes of ongoing movements in human subthalamic nucleus
Authors: London Dennis , Fazl Arash , Katlowitz Kalman , Soula Marisol , Pourfar Michael H , Mogilner Alon Y , Kiani Roozbeh
Published: September 2021

The subthalamic nucleus (STN) is theorized to globally suppress movement through connections with downstream basal ganglia structures. Current theories are supported by increased STN activity when subjects withhold an uninitiated action plan, but a critical test of these theories requires studying STN responses when an ongoing action is replaced with an alternative. We perform this test in subjects with Parkinson’s disease using an extended reaching task where the movement trajectory changes mid-action. We show that STN activity decreases during action switches, contrary to prevalent theories. Furthermore, beta oscillations in the STN local field potential, which are associated with movement inhibition, do not show increased power or spiking entrainment during switches. We report an inhomogeneous population neural code in STN, with one sub-population encoding movement kinematics and direction and another encoding unexpected action switches. We suggest an elaborate neural code in STN that contributes to planning actions and changing the plans.
Novel Gram‐Scale Synthesis of Carbon Nano‐Onions from Heavy Oil for Supercapacitors
Authors: Lei Jie , Liu Jing , Tang Ningning , Han Haibo , Li Zhi , Li Kang , Zhai Teng , Chen Hui , Xia Hui
Published: September 2021

Carbon nano‐onions (CNOs), recognized as multilayered fullerenes, display superior electrical conductivity (comparable with carbon black) and large surface area due to the highly defective sp2 carbon shells, making it a promising member of carbon nanomaterials for energy applications. However, the lack of efficient synthesis of CNOs in large‐scale production (gram quantities) has impeded their range of commercial applications. Herein, for the first time, it is demonstrated that the gram‐scale synthesis of CNOs is developed by simply annealing pitch‐coated petroleum coke for supercapacitors. Significantly, the CNOs with diameters of ≈5–30 nm and abundant micropores deliver outstanding specific capacitance of 312 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and retain 251 F g−1 at 20 A g−1. Moreover, the corresponding synthesis mechanism is proposed to gain a clear insight into the formation of CNOs from heavy‐oil‐based carbon precursors. This work provides a practical pathway to synthesize CNOs on a large scale.
Large Resistive Switching and Artificial Synaptic Behaviors in Layered Cs3Sb2I9 Lead‐Free Perovskite Memory Devices
Authors: Paramanik Subham , Maiti Abhishek , Chatterjee Soumyo , Pal Amlan J.
Published: September 2021

Organometal halide perovskites have recently attracted significant attention as switching materials for resistive random‐access memory (ReRAM) applications. However, the susceptibility of conventional 3D hybrid halide perovskites to ambient condition has so far remained a deterrent. The promise of a lead‐free and layered inorganic halide perovskite, Cs3Sb2I9, in designing efficient ReRAM and artificial synaptic devices is herein demonstrated. The memristive devices exhibit a reproducible bipolar resistive‐switching with a large on/off ratio of ≈104, an excellent retention over 104 s, and a remarkable environmental sturdiness. As per available literature, the ratio is one of the highest in electroforming‐free ReRAM devices based on halide perovskites. Moreover, owing to an intrinsic electronic–ionic coupling and a strong light–matter interaction in the perovskite, the ReRAM devices show promises toward realization of phototunable memories and artificial synaptic devices with capabilities of concurrent processing and learning. This work hence emphasizes the prospect of layered Cs3Sb2I9 perovskite thin‐films toward designing of next‐generation high‐performance nonvolatile memory devices.
Optimizing nitrogen distribution in source‐sink organs at heading for high grain yield and high nitrogen use efficiency in Japonica rice
Authors: He Haibing , Wang Quan , Yang Kun , Niu Mingxuan , Wang Lele , Wu Han , You Cuicui , Ke Jian , Zhu Dequan , Wu Liquan
Published: September 2021

Japonica rice (Oryza sativa L.) plants with large source (dry matter) and great sink (spikelets per unit area) have higher yield and nitrogen‐use efficiency (HYNUE) than Japonica rice plants with small source–sink characteristics. Nitrogen (N) distribution traits between source and sink organs at heading can be important HYNUE factors for Japonica rice. Two Japonica rice cultivars of Yongyou1540 (large source–sink sizes) and Zhendao18 (small source–sink sizes) were tested with N fertilizer treatments in field experiments. The results indicated that the N content ratios of source organs to panicle organ were increased with increasing N input for both cultivars. Moreover, the greater yield was associated with higher N content ratios of source organs to panicle organ across cultivars and N treatments. However, these parameters were negatively correlated with nitrogen partial factor productivity (PFPN) and nitrogen agronomic efficiency (NAE). Grain yield was positively determined by the ratio of nitrogen concentration in the leaf to nitrogen concentration in the panicle at heading (NcLPr.H). The nitrogen content distributed from the stem organ per spikelet (SSr) and N concentration in leaf organ were the main factors that negatively regulated PFPN and NAE, respectively. In addition, Yongyou1540 had a significantly higher NcLPr.H and lower SSr than Zhendao18 across N treatments (P <.01), which explained why Yongyou1540 had a higher yield and greater PFPN than Zhendao18. These results implied that high NcLPr.H and low SSr may be key factors for the HYNUE formation in Japonica rice with a large source–sink cultivar.
Evaporation‐Induced Self‐Assembly of Small Peptide‐Conjugated Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: von Baeckmann Cornelia , Rubio Guilherme M. D. M. , Kählig Hanspeter , Kurzbach Dennis , Reithofer Michael R. , Kleitz Freddy
Published: September 2021

Self‐assembly processes guide disordered molecules or particles into long‐range organized structures due to specific supramolecular interactions among the building entities. Herein, we report a unique evaporation‐induced self‐assembly (EISA) strategy for four different silica nanoparticle systems obtained through peptide functionalization of the particle surface. First, covalent peptide‐silica coupling was investigated in detail, starting with the grafting of a single amino acid (L‐serine) and expanded to specific small peptides (up to four amino acids) and transferred to different particle types (MCM‐48‐type MSNs, solid nanoparticles, and newly developed virus‐like nanoparticles). These materials were investigated regarding their ability to undergo EISA, which was shown to be independent of particle type and amount of peptide anchored to their surface. This EISA‐based approach provides new possibilities for the design of future advanced drug delivery systems, engineered hierarchical sorbents, and nanocatalyst assemblies.
Characterization of Mannosyl Dioxanium Ions in Solution Using Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: de Kleijne Frank F. J. , Elferink Hidde , Moons Sam J. , White Paul B. , Boltje Thomas J.
Published: September 2021

The stereoselective introduction of the glycosidic bond remains one of the main challenges in carbohydrate synthesis. Characterizing the reactive intermediates of this reaction is key to develop stereoselective glycosylation reactions. Herein we report the characterization of low‐populated, rapidly equilibrating mannosyl dioxanium ions that arise from participation of a C‐3 acyl group using chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) NMR spectroscopy. Dioxanium ion structure and equilibration kinetics were measured under relevant glycosylation conditions and highly α‐selective couplings were observed suggesting glycosylation took place via this elusive intermediate.
Concise Total Synthesis of Agarozizanol B via a Strained Photocascade Intermediate
Authors: Rauscher Niklas , Næsborg Line , Jandl Christian , Bach Thorsten
Published: September 2021

The prezizane‐type sesquiterpene agarozizanol B was synthesized employing a photochemical cascade reaction as the key step. Starting from a readily available 1‐indanone with a tethered olefin, a strained tetracyclic skeleton was assembled which contained all carbon atoms of the sesquiterpene with the correct relative configuration. The conversion into the tricyclic prezizane skeleton was accomplished by a strategic cyclopropane bond cleavage. Prior to the cyclopropane ring opening an adaption of the oxidation state was required, which could be combined with a reductive resolution step. After removal of two functional groups, the natural product was obtained both in racemic form or, if resolved, as the (+)‐enantiomer which was shown to be identical to the natural product.
An Overlooked Natural Hydrogen Evolution Pathway: Ni2+ Boosting H2O Reduction by Fe(OH)2 Oxidation during Low‐Temperature Serpentinization
Authors: Song Han , Ou Xinwen , Han Bin , Deng Haoyu , Zhang Wenchao , Tian Chen , Cai Chunfang , Lu Anhuai , Lin Zhang , Chai Liyuan
Published: September 2021

Natural hydrogen (H2) has gained considerable attentions as a renewable energy resource to mitigate the globally increasing environmental concerns. Low‐temperature serpentinization (<200 °C) as a typical water–rock reaction is a major source of the natural H2. However, the reaction mechanism and the controlling step to product H2 remained unclear, which hinders the further utilization of natural H2. Herein, we demonstrated that the H2 production rate could be determined by the Fe(OH)2 oxidation during low‐temperature serpentinization. Moreover, the co‐existence of Ni2+ could largely enhance the H2 production kinetics. With the addition of only 1 % Ni2+, the H2 production rate was remarkably enhanced by about two orders of magnitude at 90 °C. D2O isotopic experiment and theoretical calculations revealed that the enhanced H2 production kinetics could be attributed to the catalytic role of Ni2+ to promote the reduction of H2O.
High‐Performance Electrochemical NO Reduction into NH3 by MoS2 Nanosheet
Authors: Zhang Longcheng , Liang Jie , Wang Yuanyuan , Mou Ting , Lin Yiting , Yue Luchao , Li Tingshuai , Liu Qian , Luo Yonglan , Li Na , Tang Bo , Liu Yang , Gao Shuyan , Alshehri Abdulmohsen Ali , Guo Xiaodong , Ma Dongwei , Sun Xuping
Published: September 2021

Electrochemical reduction of NO not only offers an attractive alternative to the Haber–Bosch process for ambient NH3 production but mitigates the human‐caused unbalance of nitrogen cycle. Herein, we report that MoS2 nanosheet on graphite felt (MoS2/GF) acts as an efficient and robust 3D electrocatalyst for NO‐to‐NH3 conversion. In acidic electrolyte, such MoS2/GF attains a maximal Faradaic efficiency of 76.6 % and a large NH3 yield of up to 99.6 μmol cm−2 h−1. Using MoS2 nanosheet‐loaded carbon paper as the cathode, a proof‐of‐concept device of Zn‐NO battery was assembled to deliver a discharge power density of 1.04 mW cm−2 and an NH3 yield of 411.8 μg h−1 mgcat.−1. Calculations reveal that the positively charged Mo‐edge sites facilitate NO adsorption/activation via an acceptance–donation mechanism and disfavor the binding of protons and the coupling of N−N bond.
Stable Super‐Resolution Imaging of Lipid Droplet Dynamics through a Buffer Strategy with a Hydrogen‐Bond Sensitive Fluorogenic Probe
Authors: Chen Jie , Wang Chao , Liu Wenjuan , Qiao Qinglong , Qi Huan , Zhou Wei , Xu Ning , Li Jin , Piao Hailong , Tan Davin , Liu Xiaogang , Xu Zhaochao
Published: September 2021

Although super‐resolution imaging offers an opportunity to visualize cellular structures and organelles at the nanoscale level, cellular heterogeneity and unpredictability still pose a significant challenge in the dynamic imaging of live cells. It is thus vital to develop better‐performing and more photostable probes for long‐term super‐resolution imaging. Herein, we report a probe, LD‐FG, for imaging lipid droplet (LD) dynamics using structured illumination microscopy (SIM). LD‐FG allows wash‐free imaging of LDs, owing to a hydrogen‐bond sensitive fluorogenic response. The replacement of photobleached LD‐FG by intact probe molecules outside the LDs ensures the long‐time stability of the fluorescence imaging. With this buffering fluorogenic probe, fast and unpredictable dynamic processes of LDs can be visualized. Using this probe, two LD coalescence modes were discovered. The dynamic imaging also allowed us to propose a new model of LD maturation during adipocyte differentiation, i.e., a fast LD coalescence followed by a slow ripening step. The excellent performance of LD‐FG makes the buffer strategy an effective method for designing fluorescent probes for cell dynamic imaging.
Reversible Dissociation of a Dialumene**
Authors: Falconer Rosalyn L. , Byrne Keelan M. , Nichol Gary S. , Krämer Tobias , Cowley Michael J.
Published: September 2021

Dialumenes are neutral AlI compounds with Al=Al multiple bonds. We report the isolation of an amidophosphine‐supported dialumene. Our X‐ray crystallographic, spectroscopic, and computational DFT analyses reveal a long and extreme trans‐bent Al=Al bond with a low dissociation energy and bond order. In solution, the dialumene can dissociate into monomeric AlI species. Reactivity studies reveal two modes of reaction: as dialumene or as aluminyl monomers.
The Facile Dissociation of Carbon–Oxygen Bonds in CO2and CO on the Surface of LaCoSiHxIntermetallic Compound
Authors: Sun Yongfang , Chen Yunlei , Zhang Xiangyu , He Yurong , Qiu Zhongxian , Zheng Wentao , Wang Fei , Jiao Haijun , Yang Yong , Li Yongwang , Wen Xiaodong
Published: September 2021

In catalysis science, the electronic structure of the active site determines the structure–activity relationship of the catalyst to a large extent. Therefore, modulating the electronic structure has become a main route for the rational design of metal‐based catalyst materials. In this work, we prepared a LaCoSiHxmaterial that has more electronegativity and a lower workfunction than traditional supported Co‐based catalysts. Using CO2methanation as a model catalytic reaction, the facile dissociation of CO2and CO (a key reaction intermediate) on the surface of the LaCoSiHxcatalyst is observed by various experimental methods (e.g., in situ Raman and FTIR) at room temperature. Moreover, theoretical calculation results further show that LaCoSiHxhas a much stronger capacity for carbon–oxygen bond activation than the Co surface. The intrinsic mechanism is attributed to the marked electron transfer from catalysts into the antibonding orbital of CO2and CO.
Metabolic Labeling of Legionaminic Acid in Flagellin Glycosylation of Campylobacter jejuni Identifies Maf4 as a Putative Legionaminyl Transferase
Authors: Meng Xianke , Boons Geert‐Jan , Wösten Marc M. S. M. , Wennekes Tom
Published: September 2021

Campylobacter jejuni is the major human food‐borne pathogen. Its bipolar flagella are heavily O‐glycosylated with microbial sialic acids and essential for its motility and pathogenicity. However, both the glycosylation of flagella and the exact contribution of legionaminic acid (Leg) to flagellar activity is poorly understood. Herein, we report the development of a metabolic labeling method for Leg glycosylation on bacterial flagella with probes based on azide‐modified Leg precursors. The hereby azido‐Leg labeled flagellin could be detected by Western blot analysis and imaged on intact bacteria. Using the probes on C. jejuni and its isogenic maf4 mutant we also further substantiated the identification of Maf4 as a putative Leg glycosyltransferase. Further evidence was provided by UPLC–MS detection of labeled CMP‐Leg and an in silico model of Maf4. This method and the developed probes will facilitate the study of Leg glycosylation and the functional role of this modification in C. jejuni motility and invasiveness.
Biphasic nanofibrous scaffolds based on collagen and PLC for controlled release LL‐37 in guided bone regeneration
Authors: Prakobkarn Jeeranan , Makeudom Anupong , Jenvoraphot Thannaphat , Supanchart Chayarop , Krisanaprakornkit Suttichai , Punyodom Winita , Daranarong Donraporn
Published: September 2021

This is a feasibility study on the ability of biodegradable collagen coated with poly(L‐lactide‐co‐ε‐caprolactone) (PLC) to deliver the antimicrobial peptide, LL‐37, for usage as a barrier membrane in guided bone regeneration. In this study, a nanofibrous PLC is fabricated using the electrospinning technique to establish the controlled release of the LL‐37, which adsorbed onto collagen scaffold (LL/Col), in order to produce a LL/Col/PLC membrane. The in vitro released profiles of the LL‐37 obtained from the LL/Col/PLC membranes are studied in phosphate buffer saline and are compared with unfabricated LL/Col membranes. According to the results, the LL/Col/PLC membrane is capable of delivering LL‐37 in a sustained release in amounts that has no cytotoxicity over a period of 14 days. An assessment of the biocompatibility of the LL/Col/PLC membrane indicate that it can enhance the proliferation of mouse fibroblasts (L929) and human monocytes that are known to be a key regulator in the bone healing process. Moreover, the surface topography of the LL/Col/PLC membrane mimics the extracellular matrix by establishing cell attachment and proliferation. These findings indicate that the LL/Col/PLC membrane developed in this study can sustain the release of LL‐37 in clinically relevant doses, which could then further enhance bone regeneration.