bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graph Constructors vs Graph Interpretors vs Non Graphers: A Search towards Better Cognitive Performers in Biochemistry among First Year Medical Undergraduates
Authors: Gunanithi K , Roopavathy J Rathi , Birundha S
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Didactic lectures for medical undergraduates are usually presented with more text based factual contents with less room for visual representation. They contribute less for improved cognitive performance. Graphs are visually appealing for presentation of data and are a common means to illustrate data relationships. Graph literacy involves both graph creation and graph interpretation, benefits of which might well contribute to better cognitive performance. Aim: To compare the cognitive performance of graph interpretors, graph creators and non graphers in biochemistry among 1st year medical undergraduates. Materials and Methods: A Medical educational study with an analytical cross-sectional design was conducted during February 2023-March 2023. Total 150 students of both gender aged between 17-21 years, were included and divided equally with 50 subjects in each group (group I (non graphers), group II (graph creators), group III (graph interpretors). Lecture discussion was conducted on the topic of enzyme activity using textual contents for group I, Graph creation based teaching for group II and Graph interpretation based teaching for group III. Prior to lectures, priming session on graphing literacy using four stepped 20 point rubric based teaching was conducted for group II and III. Cognitive performance assessment was done at both lower and higher cognitive domain levels for all three groups. The scores obtained were analysed using one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Chi-square test as tests for significance and odds ratio by logistic regression as test for outcome association. Results: The mean age of the participants were 17.82±0.873 years for group I, 17.78±0.954 years for group II, 17.70±0.814 years for group III, along with gender ratio (female:male) distributed at 1.9:1, 1.7:1, 1.9:1 for group I, II and III, respectively. The results of the present study showed that the graphers {group II (graph creators) (12.24±1.02) and group III (graph interpretors) (11.06±1.03)} had significantly higher total cognitive performance scores compared to non graphers (group I) (9.34±1.64). Though the logistic regression model for graphing exposure to improved cognitive performance outcome showed no significant association with total cognitive performance, but statistically significant association was found at higher cognitive domain performance scores with positive B (2.819) (slope of regression coefficient) and odds of occurrence for higher cognitive performance increased by 16.75 times on graphing exposure when compared to non graphers. Conclusion: The study concluded that graphs are superior over textual contents and graph creation is marginally but superior to graph interpretation in terms of comprehension and improving performance especially at higher cognitive levels.
Unveiling Bharalu River's Pollution Crisis through a Choice Experiment
Authors: Kalita Unmilan , Goswami Padma Sharma , Hazarika Arup Kumar
Published: July 2023

In recent years, there has been a growing global concern regarding environmental degradation, pollution, and climate change, which significantly impact the development of both developing and developed nations. This growing concern has piqued the interest of economists in the field of environmental economics, which focuses on understanding how economic activities of producers and consumers affect our environment. Environmental economists aim to explain policies and initiatives that can improve the quality of life for present and future generations. Environmental issues hold particular significance for developing countries, where widespread poverty exists and there is an urgent need for accelerated economic growth. One crucial aspect of environmental degradation is declining water quality, which can have various impacts on the economy. These impacts can be observed in the health sector, where labor productivity can be affected, as well as in agriculture, where both the quality and quantity of food production may decrease. Furthermore, sectors such as tourism, real estate, aquaculture/fisheries, and others that rely on environmental quality and ecosystem services can also suffer negative consequences. The Bharalu River in Guwahati, Assam, is a prime example of an essential water resource that has undergone gradual degradation over the years, transforming into an urban municipal drain. Once a river flowing with pristine water and teeming with biodiversity, it has now experienced heavy industrialization and urbanization along its course, resulting in alarming pollution levels. This study aims to analyse the economic impact of Bharalu River's pollution from the perspective of consumers. It employs a discrete choice experiment to determine people's willingness to support the ecological restoration of the river and discusses the associated issues and challenges involved in the restoration efforts.
The Recommended Instructional Approach in Ghanaian Basic Schools; A Review of Constructivist Approach of Teaching and Learning in the Mathematics Classroom
Authors: Atteh Evans
Published: July 2023

Teaching and learning mathematics in Ghanaian basic schools has been a concern for many years. This is because of the low learner achievement in national assessments by the West African Examination Council, where learners’ performance in mathematics at the end of primary education has been consistently low. In other assessments, such as the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Survey (TIMSS) report, the average performance of Ghanaian learners has been below the international average score. In an attempt to address the issues and improve the quality of teaching and learning mathematics, there have been curriculum reforms that revised the content-objective-based curriculum to a learner-standard-based curriculum and aimed at shifting teaching from traditional teacher-centered to more learner-centered (constructivist) teaching approaches. Adopting constructivist techniques as a teaching strategy and fostering a positive learning environment produce an active learning environment that enhances learning for both students and teachers and encourages students to think critically. In this paper, we review the constructivist approach to teaching and learning, analyze its successes and challenges, and discuss the implications for students and teachers of teaching and learning mathematics through constructivism in schools.
Pisciculture and Fish Parts as Non-clinical Source of CTX-M and TEM Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamases Producing Escherichia coli in Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Adibe-Nwafor Jennifer Onyekachi , Peter Ikemesit Udeme , Adibe Nwafor Kenneth , Iroha Chidinma Stacy , Onuora Adaora Lynda , Edemekong Christiana Inuaesiet , Ibiam Francis Amadi , Iroha Ifeanyichukwu Romanus
Published: July 2023

Background and Objectives: Antimicrobial agent use in pisciculture exerts a selective pressure, resulting in a reservoirs of extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing Escherichia coli in the aquatic environment.  Here we screened pisciculture and fish parts as non-clinical source of CTX-M and TEM Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamases (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli in Southeastern Nigeria
Methodology: A total of sixty fish parts [fish gills, body part and intestinal swab samples] were collected from pisciculture farm A, C, F and G within Abakaliki metropolis. The samples were bacteriologically analyzed using standard microbiological techniques for isolation and identification. ESBL enzymes were phenotypically detected in E. coli, isolates using the double disk diffusion technique. The presence of TEM and CTX-M genes was determined by polymerase chain reaction using specific primers.
Results: Escherichia coli and Extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing Escherichia coli accounted for overall occurrence rate of 27(45.0 %) and 17(28.3 %) respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the occurrence of Escherichia coli and ESBL-E. coli among the different samples P>0.05. The presence of TEM and CTX-M gene 80 % and 100 % respectively were confirmed among the isolates.
Conclusion: Our findings reports the presence of ESBL gene in pisciculture and fish parts and it is important in understanding the mechanism of resistance operating in these common pathogens, which are also endemic in most pisciculture area. Strict rules and monitoring/surveillance of antimicrobial agent used in pisciculture activities combined with food safety training of farmer owners/breeders on various aspects of good hygiene practices are strongly recommended.
Response of Biofertilizers and Foliar Application of Zinc on Yield and Economics of Lentil (Lens culinaris, Fabaceae)
Authors: Divya Kosuri , Singh Rajesh , Thakur Indu
Published: July 2023

During the Rabi season of 2022, with the objective to establish the effect of biofertilizers and foliar application of zinc on growth and yield of Lens culinaris a field trial  was carried out at the Crop Experimental Farm, Division of Agronomy, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. The trial included two variables with three levels of zinc (0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%) and biofertilizer (Rhizobium spp., Pseudomonas fluorescens, Rhizobium spp. + Pseudomonas fluorescens). The texture of the soil is sandy loam with 7.2 pH, 0.72% organic carbon, 178.48 kg/ha of available N, 27.80 kg/ha of available P, and 233.24 kg/ha of available K. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with ten treatments and replicated three times. Zinc application and the use of biofertilizers had a big impact on the economics, yield attributes and yield. The outcome showed that treatment eight, Rhizobium spp.+ Pseudomonas fluorescens and foliar spray of zinc at 0.50% recorded maximum number of pods/plant (111.33), number of seeds per pod (2.27), seed yield (1530,94 kg/ha) and stover yield (3020.00 kg/ha). Maximum gross returns (91,856.58 INR/ha), net returns (61,406.58 INR/ha) and benefit-cost ratio (2.02). In conclusion the best combination to get maximum economics and yield attributes in Lens culinaris using the trial of fertilization performed was Rhizobium + Pseudomonas fluorescens + Zn (0.50%).
Effect of Different Physical and Chemical Treatments on Germination and Seedling Establishment in Spine gourd (Momordica dioica Roxb.)
Authors: Padhiary Gargi Gautami , Sahu Gouri Shankar , Tripathy Pradyumna , Rout Gyana Ranjan , Samal Kailash Chandra , Mishra Subha Laxmi , Rani Veera Usha
Published: July 2023

The experiment was conducted at Department of Vegetable Science, OUAT, Bhubaneswar from 2019-2021. Stored spine gourd seeds of six months old were used in this experiment. The seeds were first given various physical treatments (T1: control, T2: 48 hours soaking in  water, T3: hot water treatment for 20 minutes + 48 hours soaking in water, T4: scarification by sand paper + 48 hours soaking in water, T5: removal of seed coat + 48 hours soaking in water) followed by chemical treatments (C1: GA3 100 ppm, C2: GA3 200 ppm, C3: KNO3 1%, C4: KNO3 2%, C5: Thiourea 1%,  C6: Thiourea 2% & C7: control). The experiment was laid out in factorial CRD design with 35 treatment combinations replicated twice. The seeds were sown in plastic trays containing coco peat media. The effect of these treatments on number of days taken for initial germination, length of shoot, root, number of roots per seedling and percentage of seedling establishment in main field were recorded. From the data recorded, it was observed that among the physical treatments, T5 (removal of seed coat + 48 hours soaking in water), among the chemical treatments, C1 (GA3 100 ppm) and between the interactions, T5C1 (removal of seed coat + 48 hours soaking in water + GA3 100 ppm) took minimum number of days for initial germination with highest shoot and root length, maximum number of roots per seedling and highest establishment percentage in field. The lowest values were recorded in case of control. So, it can be concluded that removal of seed coat followed by 48 hour soaking in water and GA3 100 ppm treatment resulted early germination with desirable seedling traits and highest establishment percent in main field.
Effects of Listening to Music on Mental Health of Nigerian Undergraduate Students
Authors: Omole Oluwaseun Remilekun
Published: July 2023

Aim: The impact of music on mental health, specifically among Nigerian undergraduate students, is an area yet to be fully explored. This study therefore sought to investigate the impact of music listening habits on the mental health of Nigerian undergraduate students.

Methodology: This study employed a cross-sectional survey research design. The population of this study comprised of students from three tertiary institutions in Moor Plantation, Ibadan, Nigeria, namely: Federal College of Animal Health and Technology, Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, and Federal College of Agriculture. A random sampling technique was employed to select four hundred (400) undergraduate students who were studying for the National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) respectively.

Results: A majority of the respondents (56.75%) listen to music several times a week, with 78% admitting to listening to music while studying. The genres most listened to were Hip hop (35.15%) and Gospel (27.12%). Most students reported feeling happier (39.87%) and more relaxed (33.26%) after listening to music, indicating a positive influence on mood and emotion. Furthermore, 83% of respondents claimed their mood influenced the type of music they chose to listen to, and 71.50% noted that different genres affected their mood distinctly. When asked about their mental health status, most students rated their mental health as good (71.25%) or excellent (26.75%). The majority acknowledged that music significantly influences their mood (87.25%), reduces stress levels (84%), and helps with concentration (85.25%). Up to 95.25% of the students have used music as a coping mechanism during emotional distress. Despite these benefits, a small percentage (2%) observed negative impacts on their mental health linked to their music listening habits. Overall, a significant 86.25% of students believe music positively influences their mental health. Notably, only 2.75% of students have sought professional help for mental health issues, and of these, 72.73% were recommended music as a therapeutic tool. Up to 93% expressed openness to the idea of music therapy.

Conclusion: These findings underscore the potential of music as a tool for enhancing mental health among Nigerian undergraduate students. However, the observed negative impacts on a minority of students highlight the need for further exploration and potential regulation of music-based interventions.
The New Threat to Abortion Access in the United States—The Comstock Act
Authors: Cohen I. Glenn , Adashi Eli Y. , Ziegler Mary
Published: July 2023

This Viewpoint explains the history of the Comstock Act, its use by those seeking to restrict abortion, and why it threatens abortion access in the US.
Association of Corticosteroids With Survival Outcomes in Patients With Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Treated With Nivolumab
Authors: Lefort Félix , Dalban Cécile , Gross-Goupil Marine , Laguerre Brigitte , Chabaud Sylvie , Escudier Bernard , Albiges Laurence
Published: July 2023

This nonrandomized controlled trial ancillary study evaluates the survival outcomes associated with corticosteroid use during nivolumab treatment for patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
Novel PAX3::INO80D Fusion in Biphenotypic Sinonasal Sarcoma in an Adult
Authors: Viramontes Ariel , Mueller Nicole , Gocke Christopher D. , Deklotz Timothy R. , Ozdemirli Metin
Published: July 2023

This case report describes a novel gene fusion of PAX3::INO80D in a biphenotypic sinonasal carcinoma in a woman in her 40s.
The association between statistical learning and the development of second language grammar learning
Authors: Chen Yao , Li Li , Wang Mengxing , Wang Ruiming
Published: July 2023

Statistical learning (SL) is a cognitive mechanism that detects and extracts regularities from environmental input. SL is componential, varying across auditory/visual modalities and verbal/nonverbal domains (The verbal domain refers to communication through language, while the nonverbal domain encompasses communication without words, using cues like images and tones). The study explores the association between SL and second language (L2) grammar learning, considering its componential nature. Thirty‐four participants completed SL tasks and were trained with artificial grammar sequences over 5 days, followed by grammaticality judgment tasks. Visual‐nonverbal and auditory‐nonverbal SL mechanisms were implicated in the early stages of L2 grammar learning, while visual‐verbal SL played a role in the proficient phase. Results indicate modality and domain variation in the SL mechanism, supporting the multi‐component account. The findings contribute to understanding SL's role in L2 grammar learning and support the multi‐component account. They also have implications for L2 grammar learning.
Advancements and Future Perspectives in Cell Electrospinning and Bio‐Electrospraying
Authors: Nosoudi Nasim , Hasanzadeh Amin , Hart Madeline , Weaver Baylee
Published: July 2023

In recent years, researchers have tried to include living cells into electrospun nanofibers or droplets, leading to the field of live cell electrospinning and bio‐electrospraying . In live cell electrospinning and bio‐electrospraying, cells are embedded in a polymer and subject to the process of mechanical and electrical stimulation of the process. The resulting nanofiber mats or droplets with embedded cells have several potential applications in tissue engineering. The nanofiber structure provides a supportive and porous environment for cells to grow and interact with their surroundings. This can be favorable for tissue regeneration, where the goal is to create functional tissues that closely mimic the extracellular matrix. However, there are also challenges associated with live cell electrospinning and electrospraying, including maintaining cell viability and uniform cell distribution within the nanofiber mat. Additionally, the electrospinning/electrospraying process can have an impact on cell behavior, phenotype, and genotype, which must be cautiously monitored and studied. Overall, the goal of this review paper is to provide a comprehensive and critical analysis of the existing literature on cell electrospinning and bio‐electrospraying.
Enhanced Flexural Performance of Diamond Latticed Triply Periodic Minimal Surface Sandwich Panels
Authors: Mahapatra Itkankhya , Velmurugan Ramachandran , Jayaganthan Rengaswamy
Published: July 2023

The additively manufactured bio‐inspired lattice structures have various superior properties in comparison to their solid counterparts as they are lightweight and suitable for fabricating various parts in aerospace sectors. This study limits the investigation of triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS)‐based diamond sheet and solid cellular structures with varying densities (25%, 35%, 45%, and graded) under flexural loading conditions. The sandwich panel structures are made using acrylonitrile butadiene styrene material utilizing the fused filament fabrication (FFF) process. In‐plane flexural performances of the FFF fabricated bio‐inspired TPMS diamond sandwich panels are investigated for the first time. The panels are created to investigate how density and unit cell geometry affect stiffness, strength, and energy absorption. The digital image correlation approach is used to visualize the deflection of the panels subjected to three‐point bending. Also, a theoretical analysis is done to find out the deflection of the sandwich panel structures. An Ashby chart shows the comparison of the specific energy absorption of the TPMS diamond sandwich panels used in this study with several other cellular core sandwich panels available in the literature. This study provides a valuable contribution to the improved energy absorption performance of additively manufactured cellular materials.
Unraveling Polymer–Ion Interactions in Electrochromic Polymers for their Implementation in Organic Electrochemical Synaptic Devices
Authors: Roh Heejung , Yue Shuwen , Hu Hang , Chen Ke , Kulik Heather J. , Gumyusenge Aristide
Published: July 2023

Owing to low‐power, fast and highly adaptive operability, as well as scalability, electrochemical random‐access memory (ECRAM) technology is one of the most promising approaches for neuromorphic computing based on artificial neural networks. Despite recent advances, practical implementation of ECRAMs remains challenging due to several limitations including high write noise, asymmetric weight updates, and insufficient dynamic ranges. Here, inspired by similarities in structural and functional requirements between electrochromic devices and ECRAMs, high‐performance, single‐transistor and neuromorphic devices based on electrochromic polymers (ECPs) are demonstrated. To effectively translate electrochromism into electrochemical ion memory in polymers, this study systematically investigates polymer–ion interactions, redox activity, mixed ionic–electronic conduction, and stability of ECPs both experimentally and computationally using select electrolytes. The best‐performing ECP‐electrolyte combination is then implemented into an ECRAM device to further explore synaptic plasticity behaviors. The resulting ECRAM exhibits high linearity and symmetric conductance modulation, high dynamic range (≈1 mS or ≈6x), and high training accuracy (>84% within five training cycles on a standard image recognition dataset), comparable to existing state‐of‐the‐art ECRAMs. This study offers a promising approach to discover and design novel polymer materials for organic ECRAMs and demonstrates potential applications, taking advantage of mature knowledge basis on electrochromic materials and devices.
Electrically Dynamic Configurable WSe2 Transistor and the Applications in Photodetector
Authors: Bu Tong , Duan Xinpei , Liu Chang , Su Wanhan , Hong Xitong , Hong Ruohao , Zhou Xinjie , Liu Yuan , Fan Zhiyong , Zou Xuming , Liao Lei , Liu Xingqiang
Published: July 2023

Non‐destructive and reversible modulations of polarity and carrier concentration in transistors are essential for complementary devices. The fabricated multi‐gated WSe2 devices obtain dynamic electrostatic field induced electrically configurable functions and demonstrate as diode with high rectification ratio of 4.1 × 105, as well as n‐ and p‐type inverter with voltage gain of 19.9 and 12.1, respectively. Benefiting from the continuous band alignment induced modulation of channel underneath the dual gates, the devices exhibit high‐performance photodetection in wide spectral range. The devices yield high photo‐responsivity (5.16 A W−1) and large Ilight/Idark ratio (1 × 105). Besides, the local gate fields accelerate the separation of photo‐induced carriers, leading to fast response without persistent current. This strategy takes the advantage of the simplified design and continues to deliver integrated circuits with high density. The superior electrical and photodetection characteristics exhibit great potency in the domain of future optoelectronics.
In Vitro Prostate Cancer Treatment via CRISPR‐Cas9 Gene Editing Facilitated by Polyethyleneimine‐Derived Graphene Quantum Dots
Authors: Lee Bong , Gries Klara , Valimukhametova Alina R. , McKinney Ryan L. , Gonzalez‐Rodriguez Roberto , Topkiran Ugur C. , Coffer Jeffery , Akkaraju Giridhar R. , Naumov Anton V.
Published: July 2023

CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats)‐Cas9 (CRISPR associated protein 9) is a programmable gene editing tool with a promising potential for cancer gene therapy. This therapeutic function is enabled in the present study via the non‐covalent delivery of CRISPR ribonucleic protein (RNP) by cationic glucosamine/PEI‐derived graphene quantum dots (PEI‐GQDs) that aid in overcoming physiological barriers and tracking genes of interest. PEI‐GQD/RNP complex targeting the tumor protein 53 (TP53) gene mutation overexpressed in ∽50% of cancers successfully produces its double‐stranded breaks in solution and in prostate cancer (PC‐3) cells. Restoring this cancer “suicide” gene can promote cellular repair pathways and lead to cancer cell apoptosis. Its repair to the healthy form performed by simultaneous PEI‐GQD delivery of CRISPR RNP and a gene repair template leads to a successful therapeutic outcome: 40% apoptotic cancer cell death, while having no effect on non‐cancerous (HeK293) cells. The translocation of PEI‐GQD/RNP complex into PC‐3 cell cytoplasm is tracked via GQD intrinsic fluorescence, while enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)‐tagged RNP is detected in the cell nucleus, showing the successful detachment of the gene editing tool upon internalization. Using GQDs as non‐viral delivery and imaging agents for CRISPR‐Cas9 RNP sets the stage for image‐guided cancer‐specific gene therapy.
Hydrophobic Polystyrene‐Modified Gelatin Enhances Fast Hemostasis and Tissue Regeneration in Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Li Wenyan , Xu Kaige , Liu Yuqing , Lei Xuejiao , Ru Xufang , Guo Peiwen , Feng Hua , Chen Yujie , Xing Malcolm
Published: July 2023

Hemostatic sealant is required to deal with blood loss, especially in the scenario of traumatic brain injury (TBI), which presents high rates of morbidity and disability. Hemostasis in surgery with traditional gelatin‐based sealants often leads to blood loss and other issues in brain because of the hydrophilic gelatin swelling. Herein, hydrophobic effects on the hemostasis in TBI surgery are studied by tuning the chain length of polystyrene (PS) onto methylacrylated gelatin (Gel‐MA). The hydrophobicity and hemostatic efficiency can be tuned by controlling the length of PS groups. The platelet activation of modified sealants Gel‐MA‐2P, Gel‐MA‐P, and Gel‐MA‐0.5P is as much as 17.5, 9.1, and 2.1 times higher than Gel‐MA in vitro. The hemostatic time of Gel‐MA‐2P, Gel‐MA‐P, and Gel‐MA‐0.5P groups is 2.0‐, 1.6‐, and 1.1‐folds faster than that in Gel‐MA group in TBI mice. Increased formation of fibrins and platelet aggregation can also be observed in vitro by scanning electron microscopy. Animal's mortality is lowered by 46%, neurologic deficiency is reduced by 1.5 times, and brain edema is attenuated by 10%. Protein expression is further investigated to exhibit toxic iron‐related processes caused by delayed hemostasis and activation of platelets via PI3K/PKC‐α signaling. The hydrophobic Gel‐MA has the potential in hemostatic TBI and promotes nervous system recovery in brain with the potentials in clinics.
Transient Directing Group Enabled C3‐(sp2)−H Alkenylation of Five Membered Heterocyclic Aldehydes: An Access to Mechanochromic Luminogen
Authors: Shaikh Javed Y. , Bhowmick Anindita , Chatterjee Abhijit , Thombare Nitin A. , Bhat Ramakrishna G.
Published: July 2023

The palladium (II) catalyzed direct C3‐(sp2)−H alkenylation of five membered heterocyclic aldehydes has been developed using 3‐aminobutanoic acid as a catalytic transient directing group. A wide range of heterocyclic aldehydes reacted with various acrylates to afford highly site‐selective C3‐alkenylated products. This method features an exclusive E‐selective alkenylation at the C3‐position of heterocyclic aldehydes with a broad substrate scope. The protocol also proved to be useful to construct the mechanochromic luminogen.
Hybrid Plasmonic Modes for Enhanced Refractive Index Sensing
Authors: Dana Bereket Dalga , Boyu Ji , Lin Jingquan , Li Longnan , Koya Alemayehu Nana , Li Wei
Published: July 2023

Compared to single nanoparticles, strongly coupled plasmonic nanoparticles provide attractive advantages owing to their ability to exhibit multiple resonances with unique spectral features and higher local field intensity. These enhanced plasmonic properties of coupled metal nanoparticles have been used for various applications including realization of strong light‐matter interaction, photocatalysis, and sensing. In this article, the basic physics of hybrid plasmonic modes in coupled metallic nanodimers is reviewed and their potentials for refractive index sensing are assessed. In particular, the spectral line shapes of various modes of hybrid plasmons including bonding and antibonding modes in symmetric nanodimers, Fano resonances in asymmetric nanodimers, charge transfer plasmons in linked nanoparticle dimers, hybrid plasmon modes in nanoshells, gap modes in particle‐on‐mirror configurations, and hybrid magnetoplasmonic modes in heterodimers are overviewed. Beyond the dimeric nanosystems, the potentials of surface lattice resonances in periodic nanoparticle arrays for sensing applications are also showcased. Finally, based on the critical assessment of the recent research on coupled plasmonic modes, the outlook on the future prospects of hybrid plasmon‐based refractometric sensing are discussed. Given their tunable resonances and ultranarrow spectral features, coupled metal nanoparticles are expected to play key roles in developing precise plasmonic nanodevices with extreme sensitivity.
An Edible Bistable Tilt Sensor Enabling Autonomous Operation of a Partially Eatable Rolling Robot
Authors: Annese Valerio F. , Kwak Bokeon , Coco Giulia , Galli Valerio , Ilic Ivan K. , Cataldi Pietro , Floreano Dario , Caironi Mario
Published: July 2023

Edible electronics and robotics are emerging areas intimately bridging food science and engineering to deliver technology using food‐derived materials. Edible devices offer unprecedented opportunities thanks to features such as bioresorbability, nutritional value, associated taste, minimal toxicity, and sustainability. However, several challenges need to be addressed to bring edible devices closer to reality. Although prototypal edible sensors are available, rotation sensors—an essential component for orientation perception—are still missing. Integrating sensors, actuators, and structural components into an edible system also remains a challenge due to the lack of processes and standardization. Here the first edible tilt sensor is presented. Starting from a commercial nonedible bistable tilt sensor, each material is replaced with edible equivalents using simple and straightforward fabrication approaches. Its functionality is validated in the first implementation of an autonomous and partly edible rolling robot, which has a nutritional value of 807.5 kcal and integrates gelatin actuators, an array of tilt sensors, and an edible wheeled frame. The robot works in closed loop, perceiving its orientation and input for actuation from the sensors. These findings may pave the way to novel edible technologies, from drug delivery for wild animals to health applications.
Zinc‐Organometallic Framework Vaccine Controlled‐Release Zn2+ Regulates Tumor Extracellular Matrix Degradation Potentiate Efficacy of Immunotherapy
Authors: Ding Lin , Liang Minli , Li Yuanyuan , Zeng Mei , Liu Meiting , Ma Wei , Chen Fuming , Li Chenchen , Reis Rui L. , Li Fu‐Rong , Wang Yanli
Published: July 2023

Tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) not only forms a physical barrier for T cells infiltration, but also regulates multiple immunosuppressive pathways, which is an important reason for immunotherapy failure. The cyclic guanosine monophosphate‐adenosine monophosphate synthase‐stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS‐STING) pathway plays a key role in activating CD8+ T cells, maintaining CD8+ T cells stemness and enhancing the antitumor effect. Herein, a zinc‐organometallic framework vaccine (ZPM@OVA‐CpG) prepared by self‐assembly, which achieves site‐directed release of Zn2+ in dendritic cell (DC) lysosomes and tumor microenvironment under acidic conditions, is reported. The vaccine actively targets DC, significantly enhances cGAS‐STING signal, promotes DC maturation and antigen cross‐presentation, and induces strong activation of CD8+ T cells. Meanwhile, the vaccine reaches the tumor site, releasing Zn2+, significantly up‐regulates the activity of matrix metalloproteinase‐2, degrades various collagen components of tumor ECM, effectively alleviates immune suppression, and significantly enhances the tumor infiltration and killing of CD8+ T cells. ZPM@OVA‐CpG vaccine not only solves the problem of low antigen delivery efficiency and weak CD8+ T cells activation ability, but also achieves the degradation of tumor ECM via the vaccine for the first time, providing a promising therapeutic platform for the development of efficient novel tumor vaccines.
Predicting mobile money transaction fraud using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Lokanan Mark E.
Published: July 2023

The ease with which mobile money is used to facilitate cross‐border payments presents a global threat to law enforcement in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing. This paper aims to utilize machine learning classifiers to predict transactions flagged as a fraud in mobile money transfers. The data for this study were obtained from real‐time transactions that simulate a well‐known mobile transfer fraud scheme. Logistic regression is used as the baseline model and is compared with ensemble and gradient descent models. The results indicate that the logistic regression model still showed reasonable performance while not performing as well as the other models. Among all the measures, the random forest classifier exhibited outstanding performance. The amount of money transferred emerged as the top feature for predicting money laundering transactions in mobile money transfers. These findings suggest that further research is needed to enhance the logistic regression model, and the random forest classifier should be explored as a potential tool for law enforcement and financial institutions to detect money laundering activities in mobile money transfers.
A survey of paediatric difficult peripheral intravenous access in the emergency department and use of point‐of‐care ultrasound
Authors: Lam Clayton , Dunstan Lucy , Sweeny Amy , Watkins Stuart , George Shane , Snelling Peter J.
Published: July 2023

Introduction/Purpose

Peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion can be challenging in children, with point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) known to increase success rates. The objective of this study was to survey how emergency department (ED) clinicians identify and escalate paediatric patients with difficult intravenous access (DIVA), specifically the use of POCUS.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted in an Australian academic mixed ED that surveyed resident medical officers (RMOs), registrars, consultants and senior paediatric nurses. A 15 multiple‐choice questionnaire evaluated clinicians experience with paediatric PIVC insertion, approach to identifying and managing DIVA and the use of POCUS or other adjuncts.

Results

Eighty clinicians (34.2% response rate) completed the survey. Poor vein palpability was rated the highest predictor of DIVA. Of the respondents, 19 consultants (86.4%), 28 registrars (90.3%) and 16 RMOs (64.0%) used POCUS as an adjunct for paediatric DIVA patients but 16 consultants (72.8%), 21 registrars (67.8%) and 20 RMOs (80.0%) would use this less than 25% of the time in clinical practice.

Discussion

This survey suggests more clinicians to prefer using objective factors when identifying paediatric DIVA patients, rather than subjectively using gestalt, which relies on clinician experience. Whilst clearly recognised as a useful tool in our study, POCUS was used infrequently for paediatric DIVA patients.

Conclusions

There is currently no consistent process for the identification and escalation of paediatric DIVA patients, including the use of adjuncts such as POCUS. Clinician awareness for these issues should be addressed, which should include the development of guidelines and clinician training in POCUS for PIVC insertion in children.
Photoionization Cross Section for H@Cn${\text{H@C}}_{n}$ Implanted in Nonideal Classical Plasmas
Authors: Bahar Mustafa Kemal , Martínez‐Flores César
Published: July 2023

In this study, photoionization cross sections of guest hydrogen atom in endohedral fullerene () modeled by the Woods–Saxon confinement potential implanted in the nonideal classical plasma (NICP) under spherical confinement are reported for the first time in the related literature. The relevant wave equation is solved numerically via the tridiagonal matrix method and then the energy levels, bound and continuum wave functions are interpreted. Plasma effect is examined by considering plasma temperature and density and is evaluated in the photoionization process. Since the plasma modifies the discrete and continuum spectra by changing the potential energy of hydrogen atom, it closely affects the overlapping of the wave functions of ground state and continuum state. This effect has a distinct response on photoionization resonances. Using different values of endohedral confinement parameters, which means regarding different types of fullerenes, detailed analysis of energy levels, bound and continuum wave functions, and photoionization cross sections are provided by evaluating confinement width, depth, smoothing effect and distance from the spherical encompassement center. The photoionization process of implanted in the NICP (nonideal classical plasma) is highly sensitive to both plasma and endohedral confinement. At this sensitivity, Cooper resonance character is like an encoder for fullerene structure.
Regulation of d‐Band Centers in Localized CdS Homojunctions through Facet Control for Improved Photocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Wang Jie , Zhang Yiqi , Jiang Shujuan , Sun Chuanzhi , Song Shaoqing
Published: July 2023

The accelerated kinetic behaviour of charge carrier transfer and its unhindered surface reaction dynamic process involving oxygenated‐intermediate activation and conversion are urgently required in photocatalytic water (H2O) overall splitting, which has not been nevertheless resolved yet. Herein, localized CdS homojunctions with optimal collocation of high and low index facets to regulate d‐band center for chemically adsorbing and activating key intermediates (*‐OH and *‐O) have been achieved in H2O overall splitting into hydrogen. Density functional theory, hall effect, and in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy confirm that, electrons and holes are kinetically transferred to reductive high index facet (002) and oxidative low index facet (110) of the localized CdS homojunction induced by facet Fermi level difference to dehydrogenate *‐OH and couple *‐O for hydrogen and oxygen evolution, respectively, along with a solar conversion into hydrogen (STH) of 2.20 % by Air Mass 1.5 Global filter irradiation. These findings contribute to solving the kinetic bottleneck issues of photocatalytic H2O splitting, which will further enhance STH.
Polyaniline grafted pullulan: Optical, thermal, structural, and electrical characterization studies in combination withdensity functional theorycalculations
Authors: Noorjan N. , John Jyothi , Swamy Shashi Kumar Kumara , Gurumurthy S. C. , Ramaprasad A. T.
Published: July 2023

Polyaniline (PANI), a conducting polymer, has great interest for a large number of applications. However, poor processability and mechanical properties limits its usage and many methods like blending, grafting etc. are used to overcome this disadvantage. We have carried out grafting of PANI onto pullulan (PULL) via chemical oxidative polymerization technique. The percentage of grafting is favored by increasing concentration of aniline monomer. The formation of PANI is confirmed through UV–Vis spectroscopic studies. The possible grafting mechanism is studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and validated by Hartree‐Fock density functional theory (HF‐DFT) calculations. Further, thermal properties of grafted polymers are studied using differential scanning calorimetry and thermo gravimetric analysis. Using FESEM and x‐ray diffraction, structural properties of graft polymer were studied. DC electrical conductivity of grafted polymer is measured from I‐V characteristics, shows a significant conductivity which is the highlight of this work.
Fragmented spaces in the urban landscape: A socio‐spatial analysis of educational supply in the city of Madrid
Authors: Bueno Carlos , Bonal Xavier
Published: July 2023

The geography of school choice critically shapes families’ educational opportunities. Residential segregation, social inequalities and the educational marketplace interact in complex ways and produce spatialised educational opportunities for families. This paper analyses the link between these dimensions and how they structure families’ educational opportunities in the city of Madrid. Based on several administrative datasets that capture students’ residential location, their socio‐economic position, the schools they attend and the characteristics of school supply, our analysis reveals the uneven spatial distribution of the different school modalities in Madrid, where advantaged families and neighbourhoods have more diversified and socio‐economically homogenous nearby schooling options. The results also depict the way the city is spatially divided along a continuum of ‘privileged’ residential and educational assets. The paper reflects on how reforms expanding school choice and diversification of the educational market undertaken by the regional government may have increased the link between residential and school segregation.
Bioinspired scaffolds based on aligned polyurethane nanofibers mimic tendon and ligament fascicles
Authors: Bahrami Saeid , Mirzadeh Hamid , Solouk Atefeh , Duprez Delphine
Published: July 2023

Topographical factors of scaffolds play an important role in regulating cell functions. Although the effects of alignment topography and three‐dimensional (3D) configuration of nanofibers as well as surface stiffness on cell behavior have been investigated, there are relatively few reports that attempt to understand the relationship between synergistic effects of these parameters and cell responses. Herein, the influence of biophysical and biomechanical cues of electrospun polyurethane (PU) scaffolds on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) activities was evaluated. To this aim, multiscale bundles were developed by rolling up the aligned electrospun mats mimicking the fascicles of tendons/ligaments and other similar tissues. Compared to mats, the 3D bundles not only maintained the desirable topographical features (i.e., fiber diameter, fiber orientation, and pore size), but also boosted tensile strength (∼40 MPa), tensile strain (∼260%), and surface stiffness (∼1.75 MPa). Alignment topography of nanofibers noticeably dictated cell elongation and a uniaxial orientation, resulting in tenogenic commitment of MSCs. MSCs seeded on the bundles expressed higher levels of tenogenic markers compared to mats. Moreover, the biomimetic bundle scaffolds improved synthesis of extracellular matrix components compared to mats. These results suggest that biophysical and biomechanical cues modulate cell‐scaffold interactions, providing new insights into hierarchical scaffold design for further studies.
Elucidation of Substituent‐Responsive Reactivities via Hierarchical and Asymmetric Assemblies in Crystalline p‐Quinodimethane Derivatives
Authors: Itoh Takahito , Kondo Fumiaki , Suzuki Takumi , Inayoshi Kohji , Uno Takahiro , Kubo Masataka , Tohnai Norimitsu , Miyata Mikiji
Published: July 2023

We propose a mechanism for substituent‐responsive reactivities of p‐quinodimethane derivatives with four ester groups through their hierarchical and asymmetric assembly modes. Four asymmetric 7,8,8‐tris(methoxycarbonyl)‐p‐quinodimethanes with a 7‐positioned ethoxycarbonyl (2 a(H)), 2’‐fluoroethoxycarbonyl (2 b(F)), 2’‐chloroethoxycarbonyl (2 c(Cl)), or 2’‐bromoethoxycarbonyl (2 d(Br)) were synthesized and crystallized. 2 a(H), 2 b(F) and 2 d(Br) afforded only one shape crystal, while 2 c(Cl) did two polymorphic 2 c(Cl)‐α and 2 c(Cl)‐β. UV‐irradiation induced topochemical polymerization for 2 a(H), no reactions for 2 b(F) and 2 c(Cl)‐α, and [6+6] photocycloaddition dimerization for 2 c(Cl)‐β and 2 d(Br). Such substituent‐responsive reactivities and crystal structures were compared with those of the known symmetric 7,7,8,8‐tetrakis(alkoxycarbonyl)‐p‐quinodimethanes such as 7,7,8,8‐tetrakis(methoxycarbonyl)‐ (1 a(Me)‐α and 1 a(Me)‐β), 7,7,8,8‐tetrakis(ethoxycarbonyl)‐ (1 b(Et)), and 7,7,8,8‐tetrakis(bromoethoxycarbonyl)‐ (1 c(BrEt)). The comparative study clarified that the reactivities and crystal structures are classified into four types that link to each other. This linkage is understandable when we analyze the crystal structures through the following hierarchical and asymmetric assemblies; conformers, dimers, one dimensional (1D)‐columns, two dimensional (2D)‐sheets, and three dimensional (3D)‐stacked sheets (3D‐crystals). This supramolecular viewpoint is supported by intermolecular interaction energies among neighbored molecules with the density functional theory (DFT) calculation. Such research enables us to elucidate the substituent‐responsive reactivities of the crystals, and reminds us of the selection of the right path in a so‐called “maze game”.
Effects of aerosols from heated tobacco products with flavors on the discoloration of bovine tooth enamel
Authors: Kurachi Takeshi , Chuman Shinnosuke , Suzuki Takuya , Kubota Terushige , Ishikawa Shinkichi
Published: July 2023

Objectives

This in vitro study assessed the potential of tooth discoloration by aerosols generated from three heated tobacco products (HTPs) with different specifications: in‐direct heating tobacco system platform 1.0a (IT1.0a), in‐direct heating tobacco system platform 2.0a (IT2.0a), and direct heating tobacco system platform 3.0a (DT3.0a). In addition, three flavor types (regular, menthol, and berry menthol) were selected for each HTP to characterize the effect of flavor types on tooth discoloration.

Material and Methods

Six bovine tooth samples were exposed directly to aerosols generated from one pack of each HTP: 350 puffs for IT1.0a, 325 puffs for IT2.0a, and 220 puffs for DT3.0a. Six bovine tooth samples were also exposed to air (350 puffs) and smoke generated from one pack of cigarettes (160 puffs) as negative and positive controls, respectively. The color of each tooth sample was measured before and after exposure. The overall color changes were assessed using overall color differences (ΔE) calculated according to the Commission International de I'Eclairage color system. A one‐way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's post hoc test was used to compare ΔE among bovine tooth samples exposed to air, cigarette smoke, and aerosols generated from each HTP.

Results

ΔE values for tooth samples exposed to air and aerosols generated from the three HTPs (IT1.0a, IT2.0a, and DT3.0a) were significantly lower than ΔE value for tooth samples exposed to cigarette smoke. ΔE values obtained with DT3.0a were significantly higher than those obtained with air‐exposed control samples. However, ΔE values obtained with IT1.0a and IT2.0a were not significantly different from that obtained with air‐exposed control samples. No HTPs showed significant differences in ΔE values among the three flavor types.

Conclusions

This study showed that HTP aerosols reduce tooth discoloration potential compared with cigarette smoke, regardless of flavor types, and the tooth discoloration potential of the product may depend on product specifications.