bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Conservation Agriculture Practices on Growth Attributes and Yield of Pigeonpea
Authors: Raviraja  , Balanagoudar S. R.  , Rao K. Narayana , Bhat S. N.  , Amaregouda A.  , Sajjanar Sanganna
Published: September 2023

A two-year field experiment was conducted at Main Agricultural Research Station, Raichur in 2021 and 2022 was laid out in a Split-Split design with four main, two sub and two sub-sub treatments with three replications to evaluate effect of conservation agricultural practices on growth and yield of pigeonpea. The treatments with flat bed, Compartment bund, Ridge and furrow & Broad bed and furrow were takes on main, treatments with mulching and without mulching an sub treatment and FYM and RDF & FYM an sub-sub treatment. Among them ridges and furrow (M3) method along with mulching FYM and RDF was found to have positive influence of growth parameters viz., plant height, number of primary branches and total dry matter production at harvest stage. Adopting the ridge and furrow method can be an effective strategy for optimizing the grain yield (1555 kg ha-1 and 1599 kg ha-1) in 2021 and 2022 in pigeonpea crop respectively.
Non-chemical Tea Pest Management Practices Adopted by Small Tea Growers of Dibrugarh & Tinsukia District of Assam, India
Authors: Hazarika Bidisha , Saikia Gautam Kr. , Konwar Joyshree , Baruah Kollol Pratim
Published: September 2023

The main objective of the present study was to meticulously document the non-chemical approaches to tea pest management employed by small tea growers in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam. In response to the constraints imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the research team resorted to telephonic interviews, utilizing a well-structured questionnaire to gather information from these tea growers. Through this method, the study successfully captured and documented the specific practices, materials, techniques, and methods utilized by these growers in their ongoing battle against tea pests. The study brought to light a diverse array of non-chemical methods that have been embraced by tea growers in this region. These practices, deeply rooted in traditional knowledge, demonstrated their remarkable effectiveness in pest management. What makes these findings particularly significant is the potential they hold for future scientific investigations. These traditional techniques, when subjected to rigorous validation and refinement, could find broader application in large-scale tea pest management initiatives, offering a more sustainable and eco-friendlier alternative to conventional chemical methods. A noteworthy aspect of these non-chemical practices is the sourcing of ingredients. These materials were found to be locally available and abundant, derived from both plant and animal origins. This accessibility not only ensures the practicality of these methods but also highlights their compatibility with the local ecosystem. Importantly, these traditional practices were identified as crucial tools in combating infestations by various pests, including the red spider mite (Oligonychus coffeae), tea mosquito bug (Helopeltis theivora), and looper caterpillar (Buzura suppresseria). In conclusion, this study focused on the valuable task of gathering insights into the non-chemical pest management methods practiced by small tea growers in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam. Despite the adversities posed by the pandemic, the telephonic interviews proved to be a robust means of collecting invaluable information about these practices. The study not only underscored the efficacy of these traditional methods but also emphasized their potential for further scientific exploration and subsequent integration into broader tea pest management strategies. This presents a promising and environmentally friendly path forward for the tea industry in this region and beyond.
Self-Directed Learning Approach in Teaching Biology to Grade Nine Students
Authors: Dorji Kencho , Dorji Kinzang
Published: September 2023

The study investigated the effectiveness of implanting a Self-Directed Learning (SDL) approach in teaching Biology to grade nine students. The research was conducted in Bhutan over the course of one year, utilizing a convergent parallel mixed method design. Data were meticulously collected from a diverse group of students and teachers. This comprehensive datasets were obtained through closed-ended survey questionnaires (32 students: Experimental Group), face-to-face semi-structured interviews (5 students, 1 Biology teacher), and Content Achievement Tests (64 students: both experimental and control group). For data analysis, quantitative data were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistical analyses using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically.

The findings of this study unveiled three significant outcomes. The application of the self-directed learning approach demonstrated a substantial enhancement in students' performance in Biology compared to conventional lecture-based classroom instruction, with a mean difference of 1.81 and a P value of .02. Moreover, the marginal mean difference between post-test and delayed post-test results for the experimental group (mean difference = 0.06) indicated that self-directed learning positively impacted the knowledge retention of the learners. Gender-based analysis, however, revealed no statistically significant differences (P = .73). Thus, this study affirms that the self-directed learning approach had a positive medium effect size compared to conventional lecture-based methods, highlighting the effectiveness of the self-directed learning approach as a valuable strategy for achieving high-quality teaching outcomes and enhancing students' performance in learning Biology.
The “Missing-Part” in Withholding Tax Mechanism
Authors: Cheisviyanny Charoline , Helmy Herlina , Helmayunita Nayang , Serly Vanica , Dwita Sany
Published: September 2023

This research aims to get understanding and find the solution of the problems related to withholding tax mechanism, especially to treasurers and non-treasurers. The informants are the taxpayers who are government partners. Data was collected through interviews and document analysis. The results show the problems are related to the socialization of new policy, the new procurement platform (SIPLah), the harmful mechanism, and the unclear tax rules. The suggested solutions are to strengthen the position of DGT in withholding tax mechanism and to improve inter-ministerial synergy.
First time nursing consultation in outpatient chemotherapy treatment: a scoping review / Consulta de enfermagem de primeira vez no tratamento de quimioterapia ambulatorial: revisão de escopo
Authors: Neves Rebeka , Silva Frances Valéria Costa e , Camargo Maria Cecília Moutinho
Published: September 2023

Objetivo: mapear o conhecimento produzido sobre a consulta de enfermagem de primeira vez em ambulatório de aplicação de quimioterapia antineoplásica. Método: revisão de escopo de 12 artigos, selecionados nas bases de dados BVS, CINAHL/EBSCO, EMBASE, MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus e Web os Science. Resultados: os conhecimentos identificados na literatura foram classificados em aspectos a serem avaliados na consulta de enfermagem para uma efetiva gestão do cuidado e propostas de intervenção, entre as quais a avaliação psicológica apresentou grande notoriedade, condutas a serem tomadas por enfermeiros para a promoção da gestão do cuidado efetiva, dentre as quais as a oferta de orientações e informações se destacou, e a comunicação enquanto elemento chave da gestão do cuidado. Conclusão: a consulta de enfermagem de primeira vez tem a possibilidade de organizar os cuidados de enfermagem, e deve ser estruturada para atender à tal.
A Commitment to Making Health Care Personal
Authors: Spiro David M.
Published: September 2023

In this narrative medicine essay, an emergency medicine pediatrician describes the care his mother received in her last days and calls on the health care profession to aim for providing a personal touch when caring for patients.
Cannabis Use Frequency and Cannabis-Related Consequences in High-Risk Young Adults Across Cannabis Legalization
Authors: Doggett Amanda , Belisario Kyla , McDonald André J. , Ferro Mark A. , Murphy James G. , MacKillop James
Published: September 2023

Importance

A key concern about recreational cannabis legalization is increases in use and adverse consequences, particularly among young adults (aged 18-29 years) who have the highest prevalence of cannabis use, and especially in higher-risk, more vulnerable young adults. However, few longitudinal studies have examined patterns of cannabis consumption in high-risk young adults over the course of legalization.

Objective

To examine changes in cannabis use frequency and cannabis-related consequences over recreational cannabis legalization in Canada in a longitudinal sample of high-risk young adults.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Longitudinal observational cohort study following young adults in Ontario, Canada, aged 19.5 to 23.0 years who reported regular heavy episodic drinking (65% past-month cannabis use) at enrollment. Participants were surveyed every 4 months for 3 years between February 2017 and February 2020 (3 prelegalization waves, 4 postlegalization waves). Data were analyzed from March to May 2023.

Exposures

Recreational cannabis legalization in Canada and 4 potential moderators of change: sex, income, education, and prelegalization cannabis use frequency.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Cannabis use frequency and cannabis-related adverse consequences.

Results

In a cohort of 619 high-risk young adults (baseline mean [SD] age, 21.0 [1.2] years; 346 female participants [55.9%]), omnibus model testing revealed significant overall decreases in both cannabis use frequency (F = 2.276, 3000.96; P = .03) and cannabis-related consequences (F = 10.436, 3002.21; P < .001) over time, but these changes were substantially moderated by prelegalization frequency (frequency: F = 7.5224, 3021.88; P < .001; consequences: F = 7.2424, 2986.98; P < .001). Follow-up tests showed individuals who used cannabis more frequently prelegalization significantly decreased their use and cannabis-related consequences postlegalization. In contrast, individuals who did not use cannabis prelegalization exhibited a small magnitude increase in frequency over time but nonsignificant changes in cannabis-related consequences. Sex, income, and education did not moderate changes over time.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of high-risk young adults, individuals using cannabis frequently prelegalization showed significant reductions in use and consequences over time, reflecting an aging out pattern. Small increases in use among participants with no prelegalization use were observed over time, but without parallel changes in cannabis-related consequences. The results did not reveal substantive adverse near-term outcomes across the legalization period, although a within-participants design cannot rule out the possibility of alternative trajectories in the absence of legalization.
One-Year Association of Drug Possession Law Change With Fatal Drug Overdose in Oregon and Washington
Authors: Joshi Spruha , Rivera Bianca D. , Cerdá Magdalena , Guy Gery P. , Strahan Andrea , Wheelock Haven , Davis Corey S.
Published: September 2023

Importance

Two states modified laws to remove or substantially reduce criminal penalties for any drug possession. The hypothesis was that removing criminal penalties for drug possession may reduce fatal drug overdoses due to reduced incarceration and increased calls for help at the scene of an overdose.

Objective

To evaluate whether decriminalization of drug possession in Oregon and Washington was associated with changes in either direction in fatal drug overdose rates.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used a synthetic control method approach to examine whether there were changes in drug possession laws and fatal drug overdose rates in Oregon and Washington in the postpolicy period (February 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022, in Oregon and March 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022, in Washington). A counterfactual comparison group (synthetic controls) was created for Oregon and Washington, using 48 states and the District of Columbia, that did not implement similar policies during the study period (January 1, 2018, to March 31, 2022). For 2018-2021, final multiple cause-of-death data from the National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) were used. For 2022, provisional NVSS data were used. Drug overdose deaths were identified using International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision underlying cause-of-death codes X40-X44, X60-X64, X85, and Y10-Y14.

Exposures

In Oregon, Measure 110 went into effect on February 1, 2021. In Washington, the Washington Supreme Court decision in State v Blake occurred on February 25, 2021.

Main Outcome

Monthly fatal drug overdose rates.

Results

Following the implementation of Measure 110, absolute monthly rate differences between Oregon and its synthetic control were not statistically significant (probability = 0.26). The average rate difference post Measure 110 was 0.268 fatal drug overdoses per 100 000 state population. Following the implementation of the policy change in Washington, the absolute monthly rate differences between Washington and synthetic Washington were not statistically significant (probability = 0.06). The average rate difference post Blake was 0.112 fatal drug overdoses per 100 000 state population.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found no evidence of an association between legal changes that removed or substantially reduced criminal penalties for drug possession in Oregon and Washington and fatal drug overdose rates. Additional research could examine potential other outcomes as well as longer-term associations with fatal drug overdose overall and across racial and ethnic groups.
Surgical Instant Replay—A National Video-Based Performance Assessment Toolbox
Authors: Yule Steven , Dearani Joseph A. , Pugh Carla
Published: September 2023

This article discusses the widespread implementation of surgical video replay to improve technical and nontechnical performance of surgeons.
Allergic Airway Inflammation Emerges from Gut Inflammation and Leakage in Mouse Model of Asthma
Authors: Selvakumar Balachandar , Eladham Mariam Wed , Hafezi Shirin , Ramakrishnan Rakhee , Hachim Ibrahim Yaseen , Bayram Ola Salam , Sharif‐Askari Narjes Saheb , Sharif‐Askari Fatemeh Saheb , Ibrahim Saleh Mohamed , Halwani Rabih
Published: September 2023

Asthma is an allergic airway inflammatory disease characterized by type 2 immune responses. Growing evidence suggests an association between allergic airways and intestinal diseases. However, the primary site of disease origin and initial mechanisms involved in the development of allergic airway inflammation (AAI) is not yet understood. Therefore, the initial contributing organs and mechanisms involved in the development of AAI are investigated using a mouse model of asthma. This study, without a local allergen challenge into the lungs, demonstrates a significant increase in intestinal inflammation with signature type‐2 mediators including IL‐4, IL‐13, STAT6, eosinophils, and Th2 cells. In addition, gut leakage and mRNA expressions of gut leakage markers significantly increase in the intestine. Moreover, reduced mRNA expressions of tight junction proteins are observed in gut and interestingly, in lung tissues. Furthermore, in lung tissues, an increased pulmonary barrier permeability and IL‐4 and IL‐13 levels associated with significant increase of lipopolysaccharide‐binding protein (LBP‐gut leakage marker) and eosinophils are observed. However, with local allergen challenges into the lungs, these mechanisms are further enhanced in both gut and lungs. In conclusion, the primary gut originated inflammatory responses translocates into the lungs to orchestrate AAI in a mouse model of asthma.
Size and Synergy Effects of Ultrafine 2.6 nm CoNi Nanoparticles Within 3D Crisscross N‐Doped Porous Carbon Nanosheets for Efficient Water Splitting
Authors: Yan Bingyi , Qin Xinyu , Chen Tianyu , Teng Zhishun , Cho Deok Ki , Lim Hyun Woo , Hong Hwichan , Piao Yuanzhe , Xu Lin , Kim Jin Young
Published: September 2023

A non‐precious metal‐based catalyst for water electrolysis provides great promise for cost‐effective and highly efficient sustainable hydrogen production. It herein rationally synthesizes uniform superminiature CoNi nanoparticles (2.6 nm) embedded in 3D N‐doped randomly oriented and erected porous carbon nanosheets (CoNi@N‐PCNS). Taking advantage of the large specific surface area, expedited intermediate transport, and effectively exposed active sites of the hierarchical architecture, located CoNi nanoparticles yield a high atom utilization efficiency. Density functional theory calculations indicate that synergetic and cooperative interactions inside CoNi alloy modulate the d‐band center, leading to a moderate adsorption and desorption energy of reaction intermediates, further accelerating both hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) kinetics. Accordingly, the as‐synthesized CoNi@N‐PCNS catalyst establishes superb catalytic activities for HER and OER, revealing overpotentials of 71.2 and 263.8 mV at 10 mA cm−2, respectively. Remarkably, when assembled as a two‐electrode electrolyzer, a satisfying cell voltage of 1.59 V at 10 mA cm−2, and superior stability are demonstrated, highlighting great promise toward water electrolysis.
Hydrophobicity‐Adaptive Polymers Trigger Fission of Tumor‐Cell‐Derived Microparticles for Enhanced Anticancer Drug Delivery
Authors: Liu Haojie , Xu Shiyi , Yong Tuying , Wei Zhaohan , Bie Nana , Zhang Xiaoqiong , Li Xin , Li Jianye , Li Shiyu , Wang Sheng , Zhao Yanbing , Yang Xiangliang , Gan Lu
Published: September 2023

Tumor‐cell‐derived microparticles (MPs) can function as anticancer drug‐delivery carriers. However, short blood circulation time, large‐size‐induced insufficient tumor accumulation and penetration into tumor parenchyma, as well as limited cellular internalization by tumor cells and cancer stem cells (CSCs), and difficult intracellular drug release restrict the anticancer activity of tumor‐cell‐derived MP‐based drug‐delivery systems. In this work, hydrophobicity‐adaptive polymers based on poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) are anchored to tumor‐cell‐derived MPs for enhanced delivery of the anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX). The polymers are hydrophilic in blood to prolong the circulation time of DOX‐loaded MPs (DOX@MPs), while rapidly switching to hydrophobic at the tumor acidic microenvironment. The hydrophobicity of polymers drives the fission of tumor‐cell‐derived MPs to form small vesicles, facilitating tumor accumulation, deep tumor penetration, and efficient internalization of DOX@MPs into tumor cells and CSCs. Subsequently, the hydrophobicity of polymers in acidic lysosomes further promotes DOX release to nuclei for strong cytotoxicity against tumor cells and CSCs. The work provides a facile and simple strategy for improved anticancer drug delivery of tumor‐cell‐derived MPs.
Electronic Modulation Induced Luminescence from Triphenylamine Derivative and Temperature Sensor Application
Authors: Yi Shuang , Jiang Shunnan , Wang Kaiti , Wu Huilin , Zhou Yuanlin , Qu Lunjun , Yang Chaolong
Published: September 2023

In recent years, numerous long‐lived organic room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) systems have been well explored. However, the RTP emission mechanism of organic compounds is still not very clear. The structures of terphenyl amines (TPAs) are simple and their chromophores are definite, which makes them suitable for exploring the emission mechanism of organic RTP materials. A series of TPA derivatives are synthesized in this contribution. Excitingly, benefiting from a facile electronic characteristic modulation strategy, RTP emissions generated from TPAs are achieved successfully. The theoretical calculation and crystallographic analysis reveal that introducing electron‐donating substitutes is beneficial for the formation of a clear charge separation state and promoting triplet state energy transfer. This is the primary reason for the promotion effects of the electron‐donating substitutes on RTP emission. By varying the substituents and their substitution sites, the afterglow colors as well as the lifetime and efficiency of the resultant TPAs can be facilely tuned. Interestingly, o‐TPA‐OMe shows a temperature‐dependent fluorescence emission. Benefiting from these inspiring photoluminescence performances, these TPA derivatives can be applied in information encryption and temperature sensors.
Eu2+‐doped MAPbBr3 Perovskite Nanocrystal in Silica Composites with Enhanced Stability for White Light Emission and Flexible X‐Ray Detectors
Authors: Wang Shumei , Ma Chuang , Liu Xinmei , Huang Wenliang , Yang Tinghuan , Li Chenxing , Ye Haochen , Liu Zhan , Yin Lei , Yuan Ningyi , Ding Jianning , Chen Lihua , Zhao Kui
Published: September 2023

Perovskite nanocrystals (NCs), such as MAPbX3 (MA+ = methylammonium; X = Cl, Br, or I), have received attention owing to their excellent optoelectronic properties and ease of integrating with flexible substrates. Lanthanide ion doping is widely used as an effective strategy to enhance the optoelectronic performance of perovskite NCs. However, incorporating the lanthanide dopant and ensuring the emission stability of the perovskite NCs in high‐performance optoelectronic devices remains a major challenge. Herein, the synthesis of Eu2+‐doped MAPbBr3 NCs within the channels of SBA‐15 is presented to improve their stability. The doped MAPbBr3 NC@SBA‐15 composites exhibit significantly improved stability than that of undoped MAPbBr3 NCs. The doped MAPbBr3 NC@SBA‐15 composites exhibit moderate PL quantum yields and excellent stability under ambient conditions and UV irradiation. In addition, the MAEu0.3Pb0.7Br3 NC@SBA‐15 composite applied in white‐light‐emitting diodes (WLEDs) achieves a color rendering index of 73.5. Moreover, MAEu0.3Pb0.7Br3 NC@SBA‐15 can be combined with styrene‐ethylene‐butylene‐styrene to fabricate a flexible direct X‐ray detector, realizing a high sensitivity of 7592.2 µC Gyair−1 cm−2 and a low detection limit of <77 nGyair s−1; this is an outstanding value for a NC‐based flexible direct X‐ray detector. This work serves as a guide for the design of perovskite NCs for both WLEDs and flexible X‐ray detectors.
Selective Ion Sensing Organic Electrochemical Transistors Suitable for Blood Analysis
Authors: Meng Xiang , Zou Tao , Chan Michael H. M. , Chan Danny Tat Ming , Tsang Anderson Chun On , Leung Gilberto Ka Kit , Zhang Shiming , Chan Paddy Kwok Leung
Published: September 2023

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) have gained considerable attention due to their ability to simultaneously transduce and amplify ion‐based biological signals into electronic signals in bioelectronics. In this study, functionalized OECTs capable of detecting specific ion concentrations in aqueous solution and blood serum are investigated and described. Sodium, the most concentrated cation in the human body, is chosen as the target analyte due to its critical role in maintaining normal bodily functions such as blood pressure, nerve and muscle function, and fluid balance. These sodium ion sensors work at low source‐drain voltage, Vds = 0.4 V and gate voltage, Vg = 0 V, and demonstrate a high sensitivity of 126 μA dec−1 and a high selectivity over different cations. Furthermore, the OECT biosensors are employed to determine sodium concentration in more complex environments and demonstrated a log‐linear response within the physiological range of sodium in blood serum, ranging from 100 to 160 mm. In the final part of the study, the transistor‐based sensor is fabricated in a small‐footprint neural probe configuration and its sensing capability is investigated. These characteristics open up new opportunities for applications in wearable and implantable electronics.
Organometal Halide Perovskite‐Based Photoelectrochemical Module Systems for Scalable Unassisted Solar Water Splitting
Authors: Choi Hojoong , Seo Sehun , Yoon Chang Jae , Ahn Jae‐Bin , Kim Chan‐Sol , Jung Yoonsung , Kim Yejoon , Toma Francesca M. , Kim Heejoo , Lee Sanghan
Published: September 2023

Despite achievements in the remarkable photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance of photoelectrodes based on organometal halide perovskites (OHPs), the scaling up of small‐scale OHP‐based PEC systems to large‐scale systems remains a great challenge for their practical application in solar water splitting. Significant resistive losses and intrinsic defects are major obstacles to the scaling up of OHP‐based PEC systems, leading to the PEC performance degradation of large‐scale OHP photoelectrodes. Herein, a scalable design of the OHP‐based PEC systems by modularization of the optimized OHP photoelectrodes exhibiting a high solar‐to‐hydrogen conversion efficiency of 10.4% is suggested. As a proof‐of‐concept, the OHP‐based PEC module achieves an optimal PEC performance by avoiding major obstacles in the scaling up of the OHP photoelectrodes. The constructed OHP module is composed of a total of 16 OHP photoelectrodes, and a photocurrent of 11.52 mA is achieved under natural sunlight without external bias. The successful operation of unassisted solar water splitting using the OHP module without external bias can provide insights into the design of scalable OHP‐based PEC systems for future practical application and commercialization.
Statistical modeling and estimating number of healthy life years lost and healthy life expectancy in India, 2000–2019
Authors: Jena Diptismita , Swain Prafulla Kumar , Tripathy Manas Ranjan , Sarangi Pravat Kumar
Published: September 2023

Objective

In this study, our objective is to propose various models to estimate healthy life year lost (HLYL) and healthy life expectancy (HLE) in India.

Methods

The HLYL and HLE were estimated and further these estimates were compared with the direct life table method and the World Health Organization (WHO) method. From the mortality perspective, we have developed a log‐logistic model for estimating the parameter (bx), which is characterized by HLYL. The results were compared with other models, such as the Gompertz and Weibull model. Here, we have also obtained the HLE by subtracting HLYL from the total life expectancy.

Results

The result shows an increasing trend of HLYL among the male, female, and the total population in India.

Conclusion

From the log‐logistic model, the HLYL was estimated as 8.79 years, 8.36 years, and 9.38 years for the total, male, and female populations, respectively, in India during 2019.
Long term outcomes in children with trichohepatoenteric syndrome
Authors: Lee Kwang Yang , Bremner Ronald , Hartley Jane , Protheroe Sue , Haller Wolfram , Johnson Tracey , Whyte Lisa
Published: September 2023

Trichohepatoenteric syndrome (THES) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in either TTC37 or SKIV2L, usually leading to congenital diarrhea as part of a multisystem disease. Here, we report on the natural history of the disease for the largest UK cohort of patients with THES from 1996 to 2020. We systematically reviewed the clinical records and pathological specimens of patients diagnosed with THES managed in a single tertiary pediatric gastroenterology unit. Between 1996 and 2020, 13 patients (7 female and 6 male) were diagnosed with THES either by mutation analysis or by clinical phenotype. Two patients died from complications of infection. All patients received parenteral nutrition (PN) of which six patients were weaned off PN. All patients had gastrointestinal tract inflammation on endoscopy. Almost half of the cohort were diagnosed with monogenic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by the age of 11 years, confirmed by endoscopic and histological findings. Protracted diarrhea causing intestinal failure improves with time in all patients with THES, but monogenic IBD develops in later childhood that is refractory to conventional IBD treatments. Respiratory issues contribute to significant morbidity and mortality, and good respiratory care is crucial to prevent comorbidity.
Control of hippocampal synaptic plasticity by microglia–dendrite interactions depends on genetic context in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Heuer Sarah E. , Keezer Kelly J. , Hewes Amanda A. , Onos Kristen D. , Graham Kourtney C. , Howell Gareth R. , Bloss Erik B.
Published: September 2023

INTRODUCTION

Human data suggest susceptibility and resilience to features of Alzheimer's disease (AD) such as microglia activation and synaptic dysfunction are under genetic control. However, causal relationships between these processes, and how genomic diversity modulates them remain systemically underexplored in mouse models.

METHODS

AD‐vulnerable hippocampal neurons were virally labeled in inbred (C57BL/6J) and wild‐derived (PWK/PhJ) APP/PS1 and wild‐type mice, and brain microglia depleted from 4 to 8 months of age. Dendrites were assessed for synapse plasticity changes by evaluating spine densities and morphologies.

RESULTS

In C57BL/6J, microglia depletion blocked amyloid‐induced synaptic density and morphology changes. At a finer scale, synaptic morphology on individual branches was dependent on microglia–dendrite physical interactions. Conversely, synapses from PWK/PhJ mice showed remarkable stability in response to amyloid, and no evidence of microglia contact‐dependent changes on dendrites.

DISCUSSION

These results demonstrate that microglia‐dependent synaptic alterations in specific AD‐vulnerable projection pathways are differentially controlled by genetic context.
Carbon Nanotube‐encapsulated Chestnut Inner Shell O,N‐doped Graded Porous Carbon as Stable and High‐Sulfur Loading Electrode for Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Song Pengfei , Han Lu , Zhu Liuyan , Zhang Rui , Chai Yingjie , Lei Zijie , Wang Lijiang , Shen Sibo
Published: September 2023

The shuttle effect of lithium‐sulfur (Li−S) batteries and the poor conductivity of sulfur (S) and lithium polysulfide severely limit their practical applications. Currently, compounding carbon materials with S is one of the effective ways to solve this problem. Therefore, green, low‐cost chestnut inner shell biochar (CISC) with graded porous structure was used as the S carrier in this experiment, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) coating was employed as the S protective layer to improve the electrical conductivity and inhibit the shuttle effect. The results showed that the CISC prepared in this experiment had a relatively high specific surface area (1135.11 m2 g−1), and the S loading rate was as high as 65.72 %. The graded porous structure and high specific surface area of CISC can increase the loading rate of S and thus increase the battery capacity. Meanwhile, the naturally contained O and N elements can improve the chemisorption of S. The initial discharge capacity of the CISC@S/CNTs battery at 0.1 C is 967.3 mAh g−1, and the capacity retention rate is 74.3 % after 500 cycles. The unique composite structure improves the battery‘s electrical conductivity, reduces the dissolution of polysulfides, and enhances the battery cycle stability.
Untersuchung der Menschutkin‐Reaktion von ω‐Bromacetophenon mit α‐Picolin in Abhängigkeit von der Temperatur, vom hydrostatischen Druck und vom Lösungsmittel
Authors: Heydtmann H. , Schmidt A. P. , Hartmann H.
Published: September 2023

Die Geschwindigkeit der bimolekularen Reaktion von ω‐Bromacetophenon mit α‐Picolin wurde bei Temperaturen von 30‐50 °C und bei Drucken von 1‐500 kp cm−2 in neun verschiedenen Lösungsmitteln gemessen. Der Zusammenhang zwischen den thermodynamischen Aktivierungsgrößen und den dielektrischen Eigenschaften des als Kontinuum aufgefaßten Mediums werden diskutiert. Für den Übergangszustand der Reaktion wurde ein Dipolmoment von 7,8 Debye berechnet.
Raman‐ und Ultrarotspektren von kristallisiertem CH3NH2, CH3ND2 und CH3NHD. Wasserstoffbrückenbindung in kristallisiertem Methylamin und seinen N‐Deutero‐Derivaten
Authors: Wolff H. , Ludwig H.
Published: September 2023

Es werden bei Temperaturen unter −100 °C die Ramanspektren von kristallisiertem CH3NH2 und CH3ND2 sowie die Ultrarotspektren von kristallisiertem CH3NH2, CH3ND2, und CH3NHD ermittelt. In ihnen können sämtlichen Grundschwingungen von CH3NH2 und CH3ND, Banden zugeordnet werden, wenn von der Torsionsschwingung, die außerhalb des Meßbereichs liegt, abgesehen wird.

In den Spektren von CH3NH2 und CH3ND2 treten statt einzelner Banden teilweise Gruppen aus zwei oder mehreren Banden auf. Das Verschwinden oder Zurückgehen der Aufspaltungen in den „Spektren der Mischungen beider Verbindungen beweist, daß sie aus der Kopplung der Schwingungen in der Elementarzelle entstehen (correlation field splitting).

Die Aminogruppenschwingungen von CH3NH2 und CH3ND2 sind mit Ausnahme der Deformationsschwingung gegenüber der Lage bei den gasförmigen Verbindungen beträchtlich in der Frequenz verschoben, und zwar die Valenzschwingungen zu kleineren Wellenzahlen, die Deformationsschwingungen, die aus der Ebene der Aminogruppe heraus erfolgen, hingegen zu größeren Wellenzahlen. Dabei belegt die starke Abnahme beider Valenzschwingungen, daß bei den kristallisierten Aminen zum Unterschied von den flüssigen auch das zweite H‐ oder D‐Atom der Aminogruppe eine Brücke bildet.

In den Spektren von CH3NHD sind sämtliche Schwingungen der Aminogruppe verdoppelt, werden also beispielsweise zwei NH‐ und zwei ND‐Valenzbanden gefunden. Dies kann nur damit gedeutet werden, daß im CH3NHD‐Kristall zwei verschieden starke NH‐ und zwei verschieden starke ND‐Bindungen vorhanden sind.

Das Vorliegen zweier verschieden starker NH‐ und zweier verschieden starker ND‐Bindungen in kristallisiertem CH3NHD führt zu der Annahme, daß in kristallisiertem CH3NH2 zwei ungleiche NH‐ und in kristallisiertem CH3ND2 zwei ungleiche ND‐Bindungen vorhanden sind. Hierfür spricht auch, daß die symmetrische NH‐ bzw. ND‐Valenzschwingung gegenüber der Lage beim Gas wesentlich stärker zu kleineren Wellenzahlen verschoben ist als die antisymmetrische.

Aus dem Vorliegen zweier ungleicher NH‐ oder ND‐Bindungen ist bei den kristallisierten reinen Aminen auch auf das Vorkommen zweier ungleicher H‐ bzw. D‐Brücken zu schließen. Bei CH3NH2 ist die eine von diesen schwächer, die andere aber stärker als die Brücke der flüssigen Verbindung.
Strategizing the online healthcare supply chain management in rural areas: A study of critical success factors
Authors: Sarkar Bishal Dey , Kharde Yashomandira , Bakshi Avishek
Published: September 2023

Online healthcare supply chain management (OHCSCM) in rural areas is a matter of concern and is susceptible to policy changes, especially after the alarms raised by the COVID‐19 pandemic. This study aims to develop an approach towards examining the state and building a framework for examining the OHCSCM in rural areas. The study develops a framework by integrating various theories and methodologies like stakeholders' theory, critical success factor (CSF) theory, triple bottom line theory, fuzzy set theory, evidential reasoning approach, and scenario analysis for identifying the dynamism among the CSFs. The developed framework helps prioritize the CSFs based on environmental, economic, and social perspectives. Further, the model helps create scenarios for decision‐makers to improve the understanding of the CSFs influencing OHCSCM and achieve sustainability. The study reveals that infrastructure development, security and privacy of data, and use of predictive tools are the top factors that need immediate attention. By recognizing the interdependencies and interactions between these factors, managers can develop a more comprehensive and integrated approach to OHCSCM in rural areas. This understanding enables them to identify potential bottlenecks, streamline processes, and optimize resource allocation, ultimately saving valuable time and resources for achieving sustainability in the online healthcare supply chain in rural areas.
Investigating the robustness and relevance of an evidence‐based sense‐making construct to bridge the research‐practice gap in cross‐sector partnerships
Authors: Bampoh Daniel K. , Sdunzik Jennifer , Sinfield Joseph V. , McDavid Lindley , Burgess Wilella D.
Published: September 2023

Cross‐sector partnerships (CSPs) are important for tackling development challenges across public, private, and non‐profit sectors. Despite their growing prevalence as partnership models of choice for grand challenge efforts, there is little evidence‐based understanding about the dominant features of these engagements. This makes it difficult to develop CSP engagement models that are useful across development problems and settings. We posit that CSPs are intrinsically cross‐disciplinary endeavors and require collaboration models that enable interdisciplinary problem orientation and solution casting. To facilitate sense‐making in partnership efforts, a CSP engagement model must therefore integrate perspectives on partnership from major disciplines and practitioner experiences. Using automated content analysis of peer‐reviewed publications and manual content analysis of practitioner interviews, we explored the robustness and relevance of partnership capacity theory (PCT), an interdisciplinary CSP engagement model, as an evidence‐based approach to CSP with best‐practice grounding. We found PCT comprehensively characterizes collaborative CSP dynamics and offers a foundational view of CSP best practices.
Adapting to the digital age: Investigating the frameworks for financial services in modern communities
Authors: Fundira McArthur , Edoun Emmanuel Innocents , Pradhan Anup
Published: September 2023

The digital age has brought about a revolution in the way we manage our finances, with more and more financial services moving online. However, not all communities have the same level of digital competency, leading to disparities in access to financial services. This study delves into the digital competencies' framework necessary for financial services to sustain vulnerable communities in the digital era. The COVID‐19 pandemic has accelerated the digital shift, leaving many communities struggling to adapt. The study aims to understand the challenges and opportunities presented by this shift, and how key stakeholders can support disadvantaged communities in developing their digital skills and accessing resources. The “Digital Financial Services Consumer Competency Framework” was identified as most appropriate for the study. Respective governments and other key stakeholders must assist with the development of digital hubs, from which vulnerable communities can access digital skills and resources. The research method used is a systematic literature review of 19 published papers, which were analyzed to generate statistics, visualization maps, and theories for the study. The findings of the study will be used to guide the development of policies to necessitate and encourage community ICT adoption.
Classification and prediction‐based machine learning algorithms to predict students’ low and high programming performance
Authors: Durak Aykut , Bulut Vahide
Published: September 2023

The current study aims to determine the programming performance (low and high) of the students between the ages of 12–24 who receive programming education, by descriptive analysis, to determine the current situation according to various variables and to redict them with machine learning algorithms. Thus, the change in programming performance, computational identity, computational thinking perspective, programming empowerment, and programming anxiety according to various variables was examined. The performances of different algorithms were compared in estimating the low and high programming performance of these variables. The research involved 763 students who were between the ages of 12 and 24 and had received programming education. Different scales were used to collect the opinions of students who received programming education. Descriptive analyses, one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and machine learning algorithms were used in the analysis of the data set. Analyzes were made in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Knime software. Decision trees, k‐nearest neighbors, support vector machines, random forest, Naive Bayes classifiers, and logistic regression were used in the study. Students’ programming performance, computational identity, computational thinking perspective, and programming empowerment mean scores differ in terms of gender and educational level variables. Research variables do not differ statistically in terms of academic success level variables. According to the programming performance level, students’ computational identity, computational thinking perspective, and programming empowerment scores differ. No significant difference was found between programming anxiety scores. Decision trees of the algorithm with the highest accuracy result according to low and high programming performance conditions are [(0.966), (0.966)], respectively. The fact that these obtained scores are above 90% can be interpreted as sufficient estimation performance.
Application of artificial intelligence in adaptation of gamification in education: A literature review
Authors: Suresh Babu Srimathi , Dhakshina Moorthy Anitha
Published: September 2023

The education system has been changing continuously with several new strategies for effective student learning. E‐learning has provided the opportunity for students to learn from anywhere and from anyone. To motivate the learners and improve their performance in e‐learning courses, different pedagogical activities have been practiced among which gamification has a good edge. Gamification is one of the upcoming fields in education for getting students motivated and engaged through game‐like activities with various gamification elements in nongame settings. Gamification can be further improved by dynamically adapting the mechanics and dynamics of gamification to a variety of factors such as the personality, needs, values, performance, and motivations of learners. The advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) enables the development of dynamically adapting gamification environments with established AI techniques. The application of AI in adaptive gamification needs to be further explored to discover new approaches. This study provides a comprehensive report of adaptive gamification from the perspective of the existing studies, which map different gamification elements, user profile elements, and intelligent techniques through a systematic literature analysis. Research questions have been formulated and the findings have been presented by exploring 29 focused studies from a selected pool of 622 research articles. The findings have identified the commonly used gamification elements and presented the methods of incorporating them with various AI techniques based on different user profile elements.
Survival of Filipino women with breast cancer in the United States
Authors: Lim David W. , Li Winston W. , Giannakeas Vasily , Cil Tulin D. , Narod Steven A.
Published: September 2023

Background

The survival of women with early‐stage breast cancer varies by racial group. Filipino women with breast cancer are an understudied group and are often combined with other Asian groups. We compared clinical presentations and survival rates for Filipino and White women with breast cancer diagnosed in the United States.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of women with breast cancer diagnosed between 2004 and 2015 in the SEER18 registries database. We compared crude survival between Filipino and White women. We then calculated adjusted hazard ratios (HR) in a propensity‐matched design using the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

There were 10,834 Filipino (2.5%) and 414,618 White women (97.5%) with Stage I–IV breast cancer in the SEER database. The mean age at diagnosis was 57.5 years for Filipino women and 60.8 years for White women (p < 0.0001). Filipino women had more high‐grade and larger tumors than White women and were more likely to have node‐positive disease. Among women with Stage I–IIIC breast cancer, the crude 10‐year breast cancer‐specific survival rate was 91.0% for Filipino and 88.9% for White women (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.74–0.88, p < 0.01). In a propensity‐matched analysis, the HR was 0.73 (95% CI 0.66–0.81). The survival advantage for Filipino women was present in subgroups defined by age of diagnosis, nodal status, estrogen receptor status, and HER2 receptor status.

Conclusion

In the United States, Filipino women often present with more advanced breast cancers than White women, but experience better breast cancer‐specific survival.
Evaluation of the effect of intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric‐modulated arc radiotherapy (VMAT) techniques on survival response in cell lines with a new radiobiological modeling
Authors: Kamer Serra , Yilmaz Susluer Sunde , Balci Okcanoglu Tugce , Kayabasi Cagla , Ozmen Yelken Besra , Hoca Sinan , Tavlayan Emin , Olacak Nezahat , Anacak Yavuz , Olukman Murat , Gunduz Cumhur
Published: September 2023

Background

The optimal radiobiological model, which assesses the biological effects of novel radiotherapy techniques that concurrently modify multiple physical factors, has not yet been defined. This study aimed to investigate the impact of intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric‐modulated arc therapy (VMAT) on cellular response in head and neck cancer and melanoma models.

Methods

Clonogenic analysis, DNA double‐strand break analysis, apoptosis, and cell cycle analysis were performed on cancer stem cell models, cancer models, and normal tissue cell models to assess radiation sensitivity.

Results

The segmented radiation approach used in IMRT applications enhanced radiosensitivity and cytotoxicity in the cancer models, while changes in dose rate had varying effects on cytotoxicity depending on the tumor cell type. VMAT increased cellular resistance, favoring treatment outcomes.

Conclusions

The biological processes were influenced differently by dose rate, IMRT, and VMAT depending on the tumor cell type. The selection of the most appropriate technique is crucial in representing new radiotherapy approaches. The obtained data can serve as a model to address clinical questions in daily practice. The integration of non‐standard outcomes with standard applications should be considered in clinical settings.
Covalent Targeting of Glutamate Cysteine Ligase to Inhibit Glutathione Synthesis**
Authors: Zhang Lydia H. , Tang Michelle , Tao Xavier , Shao Qian , Thomas Vienna , Shimizu Saki , Kasano Miki , Ishikawa Yoshinori , Inukai Takayuki , Nomura Daniel K.
Published: September 2023

Dysregulated oxidative stress plays a major role in cancer pathogenesis and some types of cancer cells are particularly vulnerable to inhibition of their cellular antioxidant capacity. Glutamate‐cysteine ligase (GCL) is the first and rate‐limiting step in the synthesis of the major cellular antioxidant glutathione (GSH). Developing a GCL inhibitor may be an attractive therapeutic strategy for certain cancer types that are particularly sensitive to oxidative stress. In this study, we reveal a cysteine‐reactive ligand, EN25, that covalently targets an allosteric cysteine C114 on GCLM, the modifier subunit of GCL, and leads to inhibition of GCL activity. This interaction also leads to reduced cellular GSH levels and impaired cell viability in ARID1A‐deficient cancer cells, which are particularly vulnerable to glutathione depletion, but not in ARID1A‐positive cancer cells. Our studies uncover a novel potential ligandable site within GCLM that can be targeted to inhibit GSH synthesis in vulnerable cancer cell types.