bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blacked Out: Racial and Gender Segregation in Gifted Education 60 Years After Brown vs. Board of Education
Authors: FORD DONNA Y. , KING ROBERT A.
Published: March 2023

This article examines the under-representation of African American students in gifted education, with attention to how representation differs for Black males and females. We contend that social injustices (e.g., prejudice and discrimination) contribute to racially segregated gifted education classes (Ford, 2013b). For support, gifted under-representation trends are shared, accompanied by formulae for calculating under-representation and inequity associated with under-representation. Denying access to gifted education based on race is a violation of civil rights in education. We discuss the under-representation of Black males and females in gifted education with Brown vs. Board of Education (1954) as the legal foundation and then attend to a court case in gifted education (McFadden vs. Board of Education for Illinois School District U-46, 2013; 984 F.Supp.2d 882) for one contemporary point of discussion regarding gifted education segregation. Suggestions for desegregating gifted education are shared.
Sixty Years After Brown v. Board of Education: Legal and Policy Fictions in School Desegregation, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and No Child Left Behind
Authors: TOWNSEND WALKER BRENDA L.
Published: March 2023

The Brown v. Board of Education (1954) Supreme Court decision ruled that segregated schools were unequal and unconstitutional. Since Brown's ruling, scholars have questioned whether African American children have benefitted from school desegregation and subsequent school reform initiatives. In spite of several post-Brown school reform movements, the achievement gap persistently impacts African American learners including those with, or likely to be labeled with, disabilities. Thus, this article examines several legal and policy fictions inherent in Brown, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and the No Child Left Behind Act (2001). After discussing the National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP) data, strategies are identified to eradicate legal and policy fiction in school reform for African American learners.
School Involvement in the Dawn Project: Outcomes for Youth With Emotional and Behavioral Difficulties From Ethnically Diverse Backgrounds
Authors: Meyer Lakeisha , Anderson Jeffrey , Huberty Thomas
Published: March 2023

The Dawn Project is a system of care responsible for creating and implementing an interagency collaborative approach to service provision. Systems of care are spectrums of services organized to meet the needs facing youth with serious emotional and behavioral difficulties. This study examined the relationship between school involvement in the Dawn Project and outcomes for participating youth. This was done by determining whether school contact with the service coordinator and school involvement with the child and family team had an impact on educational placement restrictiveness. Findings indicate that age, ethnicity, and gender are significant predictors of educational placement restrictiveness. There is also evidence to suggest that school involvement may be associated with more restrictive educational placements.
Chemotherapy-related agranulocytosis as a predictive factor for germline BRCA1 pathogenic variants in breast cancer patients: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lang Noémie , Ayme Aurélie , Ming Chang , Combes Jean‑Damien , Chappuis Victor N. , Friedlaender Alex , Vuilleumier Aurélie , Sandoval José L. , Viassolo Valeria , Chappuis Pierre O. , Labidi-Galy S. Intidhar
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND: Carriers of germline pathogenic variants of the BRCA1 gene (gBRCA1) tend to have a higher incidence of haematological toxicity upon exposure to chemotherapy. We hypothesised that the occurrence of agranulocytosis during the first cycle of (neo-)adjuvant chemotherapy (C1) in breast cancer (BC) patients could predict gBRCA1 pathogenic variants.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study population included non-metastatic BC patients selected for genetic counselling at Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (Jan. 1998 to Dec. 2017) with available mid-cycle blood counts performed during C1. The BOADICEA and Manchester scoring system risk-prediction models were applied. The primary outcome was the predicted likelihood of harbouring gBRCA1 pathogenic variants among patients presenting agranulocytosis during C1.

RESULTS: Three hundred seven BC patients were included: 32 (10.4%) gBRCA1, 27 (8.8%) gBRCA2, and 248 (81.1%) non-heterozygotes. Mean age at diagnosis was 40 years. Compared with non-heterozygotes, gBRCA1 heterozygotes more frequently had grade 3 BC (78.1%; p = 0.014), triple-negative subtype (68.8%; p <0.001), bilateral BC (25%; p = 0.004), and agranulocytosis following the first cycle of (neo-)adjuvant chemotherapy (45.8%; p = 0.002). Agranulocytosis and febrile neutropenia that developed following the first cycle of chemotherapy were independently predictive for gBRCA1 pathogenic variants (odds ratio: 6.1; p = 0.002). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for agranulocytosis predicting gBRCA1 were 45.8% (25.6–67.2%), 82.8% (77.5–87.3%), 22.9% (6.1–37.3%), and 93.4% (88.9–96.4%), respectively. Agranulocytosis substantially improved the positive predictive value of the risk-prediction models used for gBRCA1 evaluation.

CONCLUSION: Agranulocytosis following the first cycle of (neo-)adjuvant chemotherapy is an independent predictive factor for gBRCA1 detection in non-metastatic BC patients.
Asistente conversacional virtual (chatbots) para ser incluido en el portal de la Subsecretaría de Estado de Tributación como mecanismo de asistencia al contribuyente
Authors: Merlo Santacruz Nathalia Karina Gisselle
Published: March 2023

La digitalización está produciendo cambios vertiginosos, no solo las estructuras de las AATT, sino también en sus principales funciones de recaudación, fiscalización, información y asistencia, en los sistemas de información y en la cooperación/colaboración del producto; por ejemplo, los intercambios de información internacionales y lo referente a gobierno digital va en ascenso. La finalidad del presente trabajo es proponer un asistente conversacional virtual (Chatbots) para ser incluido en el portal de la Subsecretaría de Estado de Tributación – SET como mecanismo de asistencia al contribuyente. En este orden de ideas, la adopción de los asistentes conversacionales virtuales, hace que las tecnologías permitan caracterizar una administración tributaria 5.0 con una inteligencia artificial que posibilita vislumbrar un escenario en el que el organismo de recaudación puede conocer la magnitud y frecuencia en los flujos de ingresos de sus contribuyentes, los tipos y montos de los consumos, los bienes capitalizados, las probabilidades de cumplimiento, la detección de causales de incumplimiento; empleando estos datos en un análisis previo que permita la preparación anticipada de liquidez y cobrabilidad, además, la posibilidad de detectar los vínculos con elementos de elusión y evasión fiscal. La autora concluye que en la SET es una necesidad imperante tomando en cuenta la cantidad de contribuyentes que se sumaron después de la reforma Tributaria del 2019 y la incorporación de las nuevas reglamentaciones producto de la fiscalidad internacional e intercambio de información.
Effects of CEO Duality, Board Independence, Ownership Concentration, Company Age on Profit Persistence and Firm Value: An Empirical Study of Manufacturing Companies in West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Mbate Maromi Merlin , Sutrisno
Published: March 2023

This research examines the dual effect of CEO, board independence, ownership concentration, and company age on earnings persistence and firm value in manufacturing companies in West Java, Indonesia. The study conducted a survey of 78 manufacturing companies in West Java in 2022. The results show that CEO duality has a negative effect on earnings persistence, while board independence has a positive effect on earnings persistence. Ownership concentration has no significant effect on earnings persistence, and company age has a positive effect on earnings persistence. In addition, board independence and company age have a positive effect on firm value, while CEO duality and ownership concentration have no significant effect on firm value. These findings suggest that companies with separate CEO and board chairman positions and higher board independence are more likely to have persistent earnings and higher firm value. The study also implies that company age plays an important role in determining earnings persistence and firm value.
Effect of Auditor Specialization, Auditor Characteristics, Board Independence on Audit Quality through intellectual capital : Study on service companies
Authors: Rijal Syamsu , Bakri Asri Ady , Arjang
Published: March 2023

This study aims to examine the effect of auditor specialization, auditor characteristics, and board independence on audit quality through intellectual capital in service companies in West Java. The research was conducted using a quantitative approach with a sample of 384 service companies in West Java. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4.0 software. The results of this study showed that auditor specialization, auditor experience, and board independence had a positive and significant effect on audit quality. Meanwhile, intellectual capital has a significant mediating effect on the relationship between auditor specialization, auditor experience, and board independence on audit quality. The findings of this study provide important insights into the factors that contribute to the enhancement of audit quality in service companies. This study suggests that service companies in West Java should consider hiring specialized auditors, experienced auditors, and independent boards to improve audit quality. Additionally, companies should also focus on the development of intellectual capital, which plays an important role in enhancing audit quality.
Effects of Social Capital, Financial Access, Innovation, Socioeconomic Status and Market Competition on the Growth of Small and Medium Enterprises In West Java Province
Authors: Fanggidae Herny Constantia , Sutrisno Sutrisno , Fanggidae Frits Oscar , Permana Riko Mersandro
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effects of social capital, financial access, innovation, socioeconomic status, and market competition on the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in West Java Province. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, and data were collected from 384 SMEs using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The findings showed that social capital, financial access, innovation, socioeconomic status, and market competition had a significant positive effect on the growth of SMEs in West Java Province. The study contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the relationship between these factors and the growth of SMEs.
Some Heavy Metals Status and Water quality parameters of Darbandikhan Dam, Sirwan and Tanjaro
Authors: Ali Daban , Abdulrahman Nasreen , Rahim Bayan
Published: March 2023

Three stations were used for this study, including the Darbandikhan Dam at coordinates 35°7'16"N, 45°43'18"E, the Sirwan River at coordinates 35°7'17"N, 45°50'54"E, and the Tanjaro River at coordinates 35°14'22"N, 45°51'58"E, to examine the concentration of heavy metals there over a six-month period. The studied heavy metals include Hg, Cd, Pb, Cu, Co and Cr analyzed by ICP-OES (Spectro acros). Temperature values range between 13-30.9 Cº, Dissolved Oxygen value ranged between 4.82- 9.5 mg L-1, pH values varied between 6.11-7.97, Total Hardness level exceed (100mg L-1), The sulphate value was between 51 and 145 mg L-1, Nitrate values ranged from 3.01 to 14.7 mg L-1, The range of electrical conductivity of this study was 191 to 595 µs cm-1, The concentration of calcium ions (Ca2+) was between 48-104 mg L-1, Magnesium concentration was between 12.6-40 mg L-1. Hg, Cr and Cd were below detectable level, the Pb was higher in August 2021, Cu in September 2021 in Darbandikhan Dam. In Tanjaro River Site each of Cd and Hg were below detectable level, the Cr, Co, Cu and Pb were higher in October 2021. In Sirwan River Site each of Cd Hg were below detectable level, Cr, Co, Cu and Pb were higher in August 2021.
The contribution of the nurse in monitoring the growth and development of children with Down syndrome
Authors: Zubčić Marina
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Down syndrome is a chromosomal disorder, which occurs when a third copy of the whole or part of the 21st chromosome in human hereditary material is present. Objective: To consider the activities of the nurse in monitoring the growth and development of children with Down syndrome, as well as differences in progress compared to healthy peers. Method: The study group consisted of N 21 subjects, children and adolescents, with Down syndrome. The control group consisted of the same number of healthy children who met the basic criteria of matching with the study group according to gender and age. Descriptive method and indirect observation method - documentation analysis were used. Documentation sheet was constructed. Results with discussion: The children with Down syndrome lag behind healthy children, more or less, in each observed segment. They are born in term, with an Apgar score in the range of 5-10, but with smaller body weight, body length and head volume, in which they lag behind until the end of the school period. Dentition occurs later in relation to healthy children, and they also have a smaller number of teeth. They also lag behind in the development of basic mental functions. They achieve most of the milestones, but at a later age. Conclusion: Children with Down syndrome lag behind in complete psychophysical development in relation to healthy children of the same age. The nurse has a multiple role in monitoring the growth and development and this improves the quality of the provided health services.
Landscapes in the works of Safet Zec
Authors: Nikšić Redžep
Published: March 2023

The Bosnian artist Safet Zec began his artistic development in the so-called Yugoslav artistic space. His work, which spanned several decades, is dominated by a certain number of motifs. In his works, he predominantly focuses on architectural motifs (the Bosnian, Počitelj, and Venetian house...), but also landscapes, still life, and human figures. He would return to these motifs several times during the active period of his life, and since he was constantly maturing as an artist, he transformed the aforementioned motifs giving them a new meaning and message. This paper presents the results of an aesthetic analysis of ten works of art painted by this artist (the technique, format, color, lines...) between 1971 and 1982. The aim of the paper is to analyze his creative process in works with a landscape motif. This paper is meant to contribute to the presentation and popularization of the creative opus of Safet Zec to both the wider and the expert public, as well as contribute to the better understanding of his creative method.
Representation of reporting on culture on Serbian online Portals: Danas, Novosti and Srbija Danas
Authors: Dojčinović Nikola
Published: March 2023

Culture is one of the most important features of the people. Based on cultural patterns, different societies are identified. The values of individual societies are also based on art, on the representation of which the degree of spirituality of a certain nation may depend. That is why awareness of art and culture is very important. As the media is marked as a force that has the power to influence the audience what to think about, as well as what to think, the media content about culture, the representation of reporting and the way in which culture is reported are of great importance. Reporting on culture should be one of the basic tasks of the media, bearing in mind their importance for the formation and preservation of cultural identities. One of the main goals in this paper is to determine whether, to what extent and in what way online media portals report on culture. The paper analyzes the section "culture" on the media portals of the dailies Danas, Novosti and Srbija Danas. According to the research, Danas took topics from culture seriously, and with its analytical approach and in-depth processing of certain topics, it showed that it attaches special importance to the "culture" section. The results also showed that Novosti reports on culture, while on the Srbija Danas portal, culture is marginalized. One of the most striking negative results is the centralization of culture to a large extent on all three online portals.
Impact of climatic variability on groundwater resources in the Eastern Mitidja plain, Algeria
Authors: Makhlouf Nouara , Maizi Djamel , Boufekane Abdelmadjid
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study is to assess the main climatic characteristics and their impact on the hydrological regime at the watershed and the hydrodynamic functioning of the aquifer in the Eastern Mitidja plain (Algeria, 2,382 millions km2). In detail, specific objectives are to determine the recharge mode of the aquifer, to propose solutions for the groundwater overexploitation and to remedy the seawater problem in its northeastern part. The application of three statistical methods (Pettitt’s, Buishand’s U statistic and, Lee and Heghinian’s tests) and two drought indices (SPI and Ipmc) allowed identifying the wet and dry periods for the time interval 1906-2018. In addition, the piezometric maps analysis for the years 1973, 1981, 2015 and 2020 was carried out to investigate the hydrodynamic behavior of the study area and to determine the effect of the hydrological regime on the hydrogeological functioning of the aquifer. Results obtained by the application of the three statistical methods and two drought indices indicate two distinct periods. The first period is wet and it extends from 1906 to 1973, while the second period is dry and it goes from 1974 to 2018. It is characterised by a rainfall deficit between 15% and 19% compared to the previous period (1906-1973). Furthermore, a significant drawdown in the piezometric levels is observed from 1973 to 2020, varying between 10 and 80 m, that indicates a negative trend of piezometric levels. This drawdown coincides with the rainfall deficit noticed during the period 1973-2018. Also, seawater intrusion was observed in the northeastern part of the plain. To enhance groundwater management, an effective remediation strategy is to use an artificial recharge technique from the existing wastewater treatment plants in the region, complemented by stopping the pumping of wells in coastal zones that are affected by seawater intrusion supplemented by a hydro-chemical monitoring of the groundwater.
Predicting the geographic distribution of ancient Amazonian archaeological sites with machine learning
Authors: Walker Robert S. , Ferguson Jeffrey R. , Olmeda Angelica , Hamilton Marcus J. , Elghammer Jim , Buchanan Briggs
Published: March 2023

Amazonia has as least two major centers of ancient human social complexity, but the full geographic extents of these centers remain uncertain. Across the southern rim of Amazonia, over 1,000 earthwork sites comprised of fortified settlements, mound villages, and ditched enclosures with geometric designs known as geoglyphs have been discovered. Qualitatively distinct and densely located along the lower stretches of major river systems and the Atlantic coast are Amazonian Dark Earth sites (ADEs) with deep anthropogenic soils enriched by long-term human habitation. Models predicting the geographic extents of earthworks and ADEs can assist in their discovery and preservation and help answer questions about the full degree of indigenous landscape modifications across Amazonia. We classify earthworks versus ADEs versus other non-earthwork/non-ADE archaeological sites with multi-class machine learning algorithms using soils, climate, and distances to rivers of different types and sizes as geospatial predictors. Model testing is done with spatial cross-validation, and the best model at the optimal spatial scale of 1 km has an Area Under the Curve of 0.91. Our predictive model has led to the discovery of 13 new geoglyphs, and it pinpoints specific areas with high probabilities of undiscovered archaeological sites that are currently hidden by rainforests. The limited, albeit impressive, predicted extents of earthworks and ADEs means that other non-ADE/non-earthwork sites are expected to predominate most of Western and Northern Amazonia.
Construction of Jujube Quality and Safety Traceability System Based on Close Range Wireless Communication Technology
Authors: Zhenhua Han , Doudou Hong
Published: March 2023

The quality and safety of jujube fruit is the key to ensuring the healthy development of the industry. Currently, there are problems such as unreasonable use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in the traditional cultivation and management mode of the jujube industry. This article summarizes the construction of jujube quality and safety traceability system based on close range wireless communication technology. The system collects data on the use of pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, and hormones during jujube production, processing, and circulation through NFC, and determines traceability information through the combination of hazard analysis of hazardous substances and key control points. It has developed a flexible mechanism and method for quality and safety traceability of tropical fruits and vegetables agricultural products, meeting the flexible management and configuration of traceability content, templates, and mechanisms, Realize the convenience of promoting the agricultural product traceability platform, and build an agricultural product quality and safety traceability management system according to the management needs of Hainan Agricultural Hi-Tech Zone, realizing functions such as enterprise settlement, product testing, and traceability information collection. Provide the application of the agricultural product quality and safety traceability system for enterprises settled in the agricultural Hi-Tech Zone, improving the settlement management level, and ensuring the reliability and traceability of agricultural product safety.
Exploration on The Trinity Comprehensive Evaluation Model of Electromagnetic Field and Microwave Technology Course
Authors: Zhenhua Han , Doudou Hong
Published: March 2023

With the deepening of education reform, the traditional teaching evaluation model in colleges and universities is no longer suitable for the development of the current era. For the majors of electronic science and technology and communication engineering, electromagnetic field and microwave technology are the two most important courses, and they are also important teaching contents to ensure the work effect of students after graduation, which is of great significance to the future development of students. In traditional teaching, the evaluation method of courses mainly adopts summative evaluation. The three-in-one comprehensive evaluation model combines formative evaluation and summative evaluation, and integrates the three evaluation elements of learning ability, practical ability, and comprehensive ability. Diversified evaluation model.
A Brief Analysis of the Innovative Model of Red Tourism Poverty Alleviation under the Background of Rural Revitalization
Authors: Tang Wenxia
Published: March 2023

A brief analysis of the innovative model of red tourism poverty alleviation under the background of rural revitalization is conducted in this paper. The rural revitalization strategy in the new era is the inheritance and development of the Marxist rural development theory and the traditional Chinese thought of emphasizing agriculture. Therefore, the practice patterns and trends of rural revitalization should be differentiated and diversified, seek truth from facts, adapt measures to local conditions, and adapt measures to village conditions to speed up the revitalization of farmers' income, stable employment, and creation of a better life in other places. Hence, this paper considers the novel Red Tourism for the combination of the Rural Revitalization.
Effect of Mind Sound Resonance Technique on Selected Psycho-emotional Well-being Parameters in Secondary School Students: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Saha Anindita , Purohit Satya Prakash
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Mind Sound Resonance Technique (MSRT) is a yogic relaxation technique, which creates a resonance of the “A,” “U,” “M,” “AUM,” and Mahämåtyuïjaya mantra chanting to provide a delicate massage sensation throughout the body. Adolescence is a developmental stage marked by changes in social, emotional, and cognitive functioning. Studies have demonstrated the benefits of yoga, pranayama, and meditation regarding health and mental issues in both adolescents and adults. Aim: To see the effect of the MSRT on selected psycho-emotional parameters in secondary school students. Materials and Methods: In this randomised controlled trial, data of total 63 adolescents (intervention group (n=32) and control group (n=31) were analysed, who were selected from two English medium schools in Udaipur, Tripura (northeast India). The intervention group was provided the MSRT for 30 minutes each day for 21 sessions, whereas the control group went through only the daily routine, in the month of April 2022. The data were collected using questionnaires, prior to and after the intervention. Independent sample test and paired sample t-test were done for ‘between groups’ and ‘within group’ comparison respectively for the variables i.e., emotion regulation, impulsivity, creative thinking, critical thinking, and interpersonal relationship. Mann-whitney test and Wilcoxon-signed rank test were done for ‘between groups’ and ‘within group’ comparison, respectively for the variables i.e., aggression and mindfulness. Results: The intervention group showed significant improvement in mindfulness (p<0.001), creative thinking (p<0.001), critical thinking (p<0.001), interpersonal relationship (p<0.001), emotion regulation (p=0.005) and a significant reduction in aggression (p<0.001) and impulsivity (p=0.001) compared to control group. Conclusion: Based on the result of the present study it is suggested that MSRT can help to improve the psycho-emotional well-being of adolescents.
Alcohol use as a risk factor for sexually transmitted infections: A systematic review and conclusions for prevention
Authors: Llamosas-Falcón Laura , Hasan Omer S.M. , Shuper Paul A. , Rehm Jürgen
Published: March 2023

Alcohol use has been associated with multiple sexual risk behaviors and outcomes, such as condomless sex, multiple sexual partners, unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STI).  The aim of this review was to present updated evidence to demonstrate an association and to establish causality between alcohol consumption and STI risk, as well as to present interventions that reduce alcohol consumption and its effect on STIs.  We conducted a systematic review according to the PRISMA guidelines using PUBMED and EMBASE. Narrative and systematic reviews, cohort studies, and case-control studies were included.  Any type of alcohol use was considered as the exposure variable, with the outcome restricted to non-HIV STIs, as reviews on alcohol use and HIV already exist.  In total, 18 publications satisfied the inclusion criteria.  The evidence suggests that there is an association between alcohol use, especially heavy drinking occasions, and STIs, with 9 articles finding a statistical significant association.  With respect to decision-making and sexual behavior, there is good evidence, including experimental evidence, that alcohol use increases risk-taking sexual behavior.  It is important to have a deeper understanding of the association to develop effective prevention programs at community and individual levels.  Preventive interventions should be implemented targeting the general population, in addition to specific campaigns directed at vulnerable subpopulations in order to reduce the risks.
Traditional Uses and Anticancer Potential of the Combretum Genus: A Literature Review
Authors: Coulidiati Tangbadioa Hervé
Published: March 2023

Background: Cancer incidence is increasing annually in all countries. So, it is nowadays a great burden for the different nations of the world. Research for new therapeutics is becoming an urgent need, particularly for intractable and chemoresistant cancer cases. The solutions can still be found by investigating natural products which are recognized as promising sources of bioactive compounds with a potential for the discovery of new preventive and therapeutic anticancer agents.

Methodology: The present work used databases such as Pubmed, Science Direct and Google scholar to investigate the ethnobotanical uses of some Combretum species in the literature. It also allowed us to summarize some pharmacological studies on Combretum species.

Results: This review gathers all available traditional uses and cytotoxicity studies of Combretum species in the literature. Special focus is given to pharmacological studies highlighting isolated potential anticancer molecules. These molecules present potent cytotoxic effect on various cancer cell lines and may contribute to improving the health of people suffering from various cancer diseases.

Conclusion: The Combretum species are widely used in folk medicine for the treatment of several pathologies including cancers. This study is of fundamental importance in highlighting Combretum species as a potential source for research of new anticancer compounds.
Association Between Preoperative Diabetes Control and Postoperative Adverse Events Among Veterans Health Administration Patients With Diabetes Who Underwent Elective Ambulatory Hernia Surgery
Authors: Shanahan Jessica , Vimalananda Varsha G. , Graham Laura , Schumann Roman , Mull Hillary J.
Published: March 2023

This cohort study examines the association between same-day preoperative glycemic control and postoperative adverse events among patients with diabetes undergoing ambulatory hernia surgery.
Disordered testosterone transport in mice lacking the ganglioside GM2/GD2 synthase gene
Authors: Furukawa Koichi , Takamiya Kogo , Ohmi Yuhsuke , Bhuiyan Robiul H. , Tajima Orie , Furukawa Keiko
Published: March 2023

Genetic disruption of glycosyltransferases has provided clear information on the roles of their reaction products in the body. Our group has studied the function of glycosphingolipids by genetic engineering of glycosyltransferases in cell culture and in mice, which has demonstrated both expected and unexpected results. Among these findings, aspermatogenesis in ganglioside GM2/GD2 synthase knockout mice was one of the most surprising and intriguing results. There were no sperms in testis, and multinuclear giant cells were detected instead of spermatids. Although serum levels of testosterone in the male mice were extremely low, testosterone accumulated in the interstitial tissues, including Leydig cells, and seemed not to be transferred into the seminiferous tubules or vascular cavity from Leydig cells. This was considered to be the cause of aspermatogenesis and low serum levels of testosterone. Patients with a mutant GM2/GD2 synthase gene (SPG26) showed similar clinical signs, not only in terms of the neurological aspects, but also in the male reproductive system. The mechanisms for testosterone transport by gangliosides are discussed here based on our own results and reports from other laboratories.
Synthesis of 5‐Trifluoromethyl‐1,4‐dihydro‐1,2,4‐triazines via Base‐mediated [3+3] Cycloaddition of Nitrile Imines and CF3‐Imidoyl Sulfoxonium Ylides
Authors: Sun Yue , Ling Sihao , Duan Yubo , Li Jingxian , Chen Zhengkai , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: March 2023

An approach for the construction of 5‐trifluoromethyl‐1,4‐dihydro‐1,2,4‐triazines has been developed via base‐mediated [3+3] cycloaddition of in‐situ generated nitrile imines and CF3‐substituted imidoyl sulfoxonium ylides. The metal‐free protocol is characterized by readily available starting materials, mild conditions, a broad substrate scope, high efficiency, good synthetic prospect, and scalability.

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Catalytic Biorefining of Natural Oils to Basic Olefinic Building Blocks of Proven Chemical Valorization Schemes
Authors: de Roo Stefanie , Einsiedler Felix , Mecking Stefan
Published: March 2023

Catalytic transformation of renewable plant oils including microalgae and waste oil into industrially relevant α‐olefins in the C3 to C10 regime is demonstrated. The biorefinery concept is comprised of a catalytic sequence of ethenolysis, double bond isomerization, and a subsequent ethenolysis, thereby cutting and rearranging the fatty acid chains into valuable chemical building blocks. A benign extraction and reaction solvent, supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2), is utilized.
Recent Advances in Nanoengineering of Electrode‐Electrolyte Interfaces to Realize High‐Performance Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Na‐Yeong , Kim Ilgyu , Bornamehr Behnoosh , Presser Volker , Ueda Hiroyuki , Lee Ho‐Jin , Cheong Jun Young , Jung Ji‐Won
Published: March 2023

A suitable interface between the electrode and electrolyte is crucial in achieving highly stable electrochemical performance for Li‐ion batteries, as facile ionic transport is required. Intriguing research and development have recently been conducted to form a stable interface between the electrode and electrolyte. Therefore, it is essential to investigate emerging knowledge and contextualize it. The nanoengineering of the electrode‐electrolyte interface has been actively researched at the electrode/electrolyte and interphase levels. This review presents and summarizes some recent advances aimed at nanoengineering approaches to build a more stable electrode‐electrolyte interface and assess the impact of each approach adopted. Furthermore, future perspectives on the feasibility and practicality of each approach will also be reviewed in detail. Finally, this review aids in projecting a more sustainable research pathway for a nanoengineered interphase design between electrode and electrolyte, which is pivotal for high‐performance, thermally stable Li‐ion batteries.
Modeling of diffuse solar radiation exergy in Turkey: Comparison of diffuse fraction and diffusion coefficient models
Authors: Arslanoglu Nurullah
Published: March 2023

In this study, 19 regression models were established for the prediction of exergy value of monthly average diffuse solar radiation with a single or multiple input predictor (Relative sunshine duration, clearness index, relative humidity, and air temperature). Five model categories were defined depending on the diffuse fraction and diffusion coefficient. The most frequently used statistical indicators were used to determine the performance of the empirical models. The global performance indicator (GPI) method was used to determine the accuracy ranking of the models. Consequently, the results show a good agreement with the values ​​estimated from the regression models and the measurement data. The regression models established in this study can be used with great accuracy to evaluate the monthly average diffuse solar radiation exergy in the regions under consideration or in similar climatic conditions.
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Authors: Kiyono Kenjiro , Mabuchi Shun , Otaka Akihisa , Iwasaki Yasuhiko
Published: March 2023

The cover image is based on the Research Article Bone‐targeting polyphosphodiesters that promote osteoblastic differentiation by Kenjiro Kiyono et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/jbm.a.37499.

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Characterizing different types of black fountain pen ink using the chemical approach
Authors: Tung Fang‐Hsiu , Wu Kuan‐Lu , Wang Hsueh‐Ting , Chen Sung‐Fang
Published: March 2023

Fountain pen ink contains dyes, pigments, or nanoparticles as colorants; water and ethylene glycol or an organic solvent as the vehicle. The dyes in fountain pen ink are usually negatively charged acid dyes. In this study, various types of black fountain pen ink (5 dye‐based and 5 nanoparticle‐based) were investigated by ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) absorption spectroscopy, Ion Pair High Performance Liquid Chromatography Diode‐Array Detector (IP‐HPLC‐DAD), Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time‐of‐Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF‐MS), and Liquid Chromatography Quadrupole Time‐of‐Flight Mass Spectrometry (LC‐Q/TOF‐MS) analysis. UV–Vis spectroscopy of fountain pen ink samples showed different profiles despite their similar color. MALDI‐TOF‐MS analyses successfully differentiated 10 of the inks. Nanoparticle‐based ink, which is usually darker than dye‐based ink, showed the same UV absorption at 240 nm. The use of LC‐Q/TOF‐MS, however, allowed the 5 dye‐based fountain pen ink samples to be differentiated from one another. On the basis of the combined results of all analytical methods mentioned above, the discriminating power values were 0.71–1.00. Among them, MALDI‐TOF‐MS could successfully distinguish fountain pen ink samples with similar black colors and provide an easy analytical approach for the differentiation and identification of various types of fountain pens.
Genome‐based survey of the SARS‐CoV‐2 BF.7 variant from Asia
Authors: Scarpa Fabio , Giovanetti Marta , Azzena Ilenia , Locci Chiara , Casu Marco , Fiori Pier Luigi , Ciccozzi Alessandra , Imperia Elena , Bazzani Liliana , Borsetti Alessandra , Maruotti Antonello , Pascarella Stefano , Sanna Daria , Ciccozzi Massimo
Published: March 2023

The SARS‐CoV‐2 BF.7 variant represents one of the most recent subvariant under monitoring. At the beginning of the 2023 it caused several concerns especially in Asia because of a resurge in COVID‐19 cases. Here we perform a genome‐based integrative approach on SARS‐CoV‐2 BF.7 to shed light on this emerging lineage and produce some consideration on its real dangerousness. Both genetic and structural data suggest that this new variant currently does not show evidence of an high expansion capability. It is very common in Asia, but it appears less virulent than other Omicron variants as proved by its relatively low evolutionary rate (5.62 × 10−4 subs/sites/years). The last plateau has been reached around December 14, 2022 and then the genetic variability, and thus the viral population size, no longer increased. As already seen for several previous variants, the features that may be theoretically related to advantages are due to genetic drift that allows to the virus a constant adaptability to the host, but is not strictly connected to a fitness advantage. These results have further pointed that the genome‐based monitoring must continue uninterruptedly to be prepared and well documented on the real situation.
Bioactive molecules from fungal endophytes and their applications in pharmaceutical industries: challenges and future scope
Authors: Anand Kumar , Kumar Vijay , Prasher Indu Bhushan , Sethi Megha , Raj Harsh , Ranjan Himanshu , Chand Subhash , Pandey Gaurav Kumar
Published: March 2023

Medicinal plants are an important source of bioactive compounds and have been used to isolate various bioactive compounds having industrial applications. The demand for plants derived bioactive molecules is increasing gradually. However, the extensive use of these plants to extract bioactive molecules has threatened many plant species. Moreover, extracting bioactive molecules from these plants is laborious, costly, and time‐consuming. So, some alternative sources and strategies are urgently needed to produce these bioactive molecules similar to that of plant origin. However, the interest in new bioactive molecules has recently shifted from plants to endophytic fungi because many fungi produce bioactive molecules similar to their host plant. Endophytic fungi live in mutualistic association within the healthy plant tissue without causing disease symptoms to the host plant. These fungi are a treasure house of novel bioactive molecules having broad pharmaceutical, industrial, and agricultural applications. The rapid increase in publications in this domain over the last three decades proves that natural product biologists and chemists are paying great attention to the natural bioactive products from endophytic fungi. Though endophytes are source of novel bioactive molecules but there is need of advanced technologies like clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and CRISPR‐associated protein 9 (CRISPR‐Cas9) and epigenetic modifiers to enhance the production of compounds having industrial applications. This review provides an overview of the various industrial applications of bioactive molecules produced by endophytic fungi and the rationale behind selecting specific plants for fungal endophyte isolation. Overall, this study presents the current state of knowledge and highlights the potential of endophytic fungi for developing alternative therapies for drug‐resistant infections.
A retrospective study of 129 patients with plasma cell balanitis
Authors: Jormanainen Anniina , Pasternack Camilla , Pasternack Rafael
Published: March 2023

Background

Plasma cell balanitis (PCB) is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis of the glans penis and prepuce, typically presenting as discrete shiny bright red plaques. Research on PCB is scarce, with case reports and small series. The aetiology, incidence and prevalence of PCB remain unclear. Circumcision is considered as the treatment of choice. Topical treatments such as topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, fucidic acid and imiquimod have been widely used, but they lack evidence of efficacy.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical profiles, treatment methods and outcomes of PCB patients in a relatively large cohort.

Methods

We concluded a retrospective study of 129 patients with the diagnosis of PCB between 1 January 2003 and 31 December 2018 at Tampere University Hospital (TAYS) dermatology department.

Results

The majority of patients were treated with topical treatments only, while 31 patients (24%) eventually underwent circumcision. The most used and most effective topical treatments were tacrolimus (0.03% or 0.1%) and clobetasol propionate. Those treated with circumcision had a shorter follow‐up time (median 8 months vs. 47 months, p = 0.002) and were more likely to reach remission (46% vs. 16%, p = 0.002) compared with those treated with only topical treatments. Patients with more severe symptoms were more often treated with several topical treatments and to undergo circumcision, and they were more likely to ultimately reach remission. The follow‐up time was longer among patients with a histopathologic diagnosis than with a clinical diagnosis (median 16 months vs. 6 months, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Topical treatments are rarely curative, but among them tacrolimus and topical corticosteroids show the strongest evidence of efficacy. The rate of remission is significantly better among those circumcised, and it is to be considered already at an early stage. Further studies are needed to find the best care management for PCB.
A Water‐Soluble Polymer‐Lumefantrine Conjugate for the Intravenous Treatment of Severe Malaria
Authors: Matshe William M.R. , Tshweu Lesego L. , Mvango Sindisiwe , Cele Zamani E.D. , Chetty Avashnee S. , Pilcher Lynne A. , Famuyide Ibukun M. , McGaw Lyndy J. , Taylor Dale , Gibhard Liezl , Basarab Gregory S. , Balogun Mohammed O.
Published: March 2023

Uncomplicated malaria is effectively treated with oral artemisinin‐based combination therapy (ACT). Yet, there is an unmet clinical need for the intravenous treatment of the more fatal severe malaria. There is no combination intravenous therapy for uncomplicated due to the nonavailability of a water‐soluble partner drug for the artemisinin, artesunate. The currently available treatment is a two‐part regimen split into an intravenous artesunate followed by the conventional oral ACT . In a novel application of polymer therapeutics, the aqueous insoluble antimalarial lumefantrine is conjugated to a carrier polymer to create a new water‐soluble chemical entity suitable for intravenous administration in a clinically relevant formulation . The conjugate is characterized by spectroscopic and analytical techniques, and the aqueous solubility of lumefantrine is determined to have increased by three orders of magnitude. Pharmacokinetic studies in mice indicate that there is a significant plasma release of lumefantrine and production its metabolite desbutyl‐lumefantrine (area under the curve of metabolite is ≈10% that of the parent). In a Plasmodium falciparum malaria mouse model, parasitemia clearance is 50% higher than that of reference unconjugated lumefantrine. The polymer‐lumefantrine shows potential for entering the clinic to meet the need for a one‐course combination treatment for severe malaria.
Über die rote Farbe bei Zuckernachweisen
Authors: Ruppersberg Klaus‐Martin , Kussler Manfred
Published: March 2023

1,4‐verknüpfte Disaccharide reagieren mit Ammoniak und ausgewählten Aminen zu einem roten Farbstoff. Diese nasschemischen Nachweise sind aussagekräftiger als die Fehling‐Reaktion oder die Schiff’sche Probe und eignen sich daher besser für Schule und Ausbildung. Der Farbstoff ist allerdings instabil, zu Struktur und Reaktionsmechanismus gab es bisher nur Hypothesen [Nachr. Chem. 2018 (6) und 2019(2)], nun gibt es Fortschritte.
Prozessanalytik: Mitschwimmen und antworten
Authors: Himmelhaus Michael , Schindlbeck Klaus , Schröter Tobias
Published: March 2023

Fluidect bringt Laboranalytik zur Produktionsanlage. Mit einem Sensor für Mikroorganismen und Proteine will das Start‐up Industrieprozesse überwachen und optimieren. So lassen sich etwa die Hefegesundheit in der Alkoholproduktion überwachen oder Krankheitserreger in Wasser erkennen.
Bilanz Roche 2022: Immer neue Medikamente
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: March 2023

Der Pharma‐ und Diagnostikkonzern Roche hatte in den letzten Jahren mit Covid‐19‐ Produkten Geschäfte mit zweistelligen Umsatzzuwächsen gemacht. Im vergangenen Jahr stieg der Umsatz um ein Prozent.
April, April: Gaskrise
Authors: Zbikowski Frauke
Published: March 2023

Ohne Gase geht es nicht – schon gar nicht im April. Dieser Trend zeichnet sich nun bereits seit Jahren ab, seit Transmutationen aus der Mode gekommen sind.
Laborkuriositäten: Zeichen und Wunder
Authors: Zaake‐Hertling Haldor , Mayer Alexander , Weigelt Vincent , Hoffman Katrin , Weingarten Marie
Published: March 2023

Ob beim Blick ins Mikroskop, in den Kolben oder auf die Laborbench: Kristalle, Lösungsmittelränder oder Schlonz erinnern häufig an etwas, was wir aus dem Alltag kennen. Das ist unseren Leserinnen und Lesern begegnet.
Mößbauerspektroskopie: Radionuklide aus Russland
Authors: Blicker Luca
Published: March 2023

Die Mößbauerspektroskopie ist abhängig von Cobalt‐57. Weltweit einziger Lieferant ist Russland.