bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Emerging Technologies and Banking Industry Service Delivery in Nigeria
Authors: Gabriel-Okwuchi Chibuzo Josephine
Published: January 2025

Developments in the financial sector has put pressure on Banking industry in Nigeria in order to keep pace with trends in global financial system and emerging technologies. The extent of adaptation to the emerging technologies within the Nigerian banking sector performance output, remains pertinent to the banking sector, the economic planners and to academic interest. The specific objective of this paper is to analyze the effect of selected emerging financial technologies (Fintech) on banking service delivery output in Nigeria, for the period of 2005 to 2022. Source of data is CBN Statistical Bulletin. The selected Fintech include: Point of sale (POST), Automated Teller Machine (ATMT), Agency Banking (ABT) and Internet Banking (IBT). The study applied OLS, Unit root test, co-integration, and error correction model for the econometric analysis. The major results showed that ATMT, POST, ABT had significant positive impact on banking service performance output (BSP), while IBT had significant negative impact on BSP in Nigeria. Overall, the emerging technologies have made positive contributions to the banking sector service delivery in Nigeria with exception of IBT. The study therefore recommends that the providers should lay more emphasis on resolving network problems so as to improve its networking for effective uses of internet banking. To increase strategies that tackle barriers such as insecurity/fraud. Avoidable glitches in the use of Fintech should be encouraged, more especially, improving on its networking. The Policy makers should create more awareness and formulate guidelines that aim at increasing availability of Fintech, especially ATMT in the rural areas. Finally, properly executed agency banking, with more capacities should be promoted with incentives. This is necessary to include the financially excluded, and to create a sustainable confidence in banks which, have been lacking among the players.
Examining the Efficacy of Compensation Blueprints for Livestock, Human, and Crop Losses in Zimbabwe’s Human-wildlife Conflict Hotspots
Authors: Charamba Govarthy , Ganye Hazel Nyarai , Chikwati Takunda
Published: January 2025

Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) persists as a debilitating scourge in Zimbabwe, exacting a devastating toll on human life, livestock, and agricultural productivity. Despite the availability of indemnification schemes aimed at alleviating the consequences of HWC, their effectiveness remains shrouded in uncertainty. This comprehensive analysis scrutinizes the adequacy and impact of indemnification programs addressing human, livestock, and crop losses in Zimbabwe’s most vulnerable areas. Using a qualitative approach with interviews as data instrument, the study evaluates the effectiveness of compensation schemes in reducing conflict and supporting affected communities. The results analyzed through thematic content show that while compensation schemes provide some relief to affected communities, they are often inadequate, lack robust data systems, delayed payments, lack of fair valuation of losses, and inequitable. The study identifies key challenges, including limited funding, bureaucratic inefficiencies, lack of any laid down legislation that seeks to protect victims of HWC, and lack of community engagement. To enhance the efficacy of compensation schemes, the study recommends increasing funding avenues, streamlining administrative processes, and ensuring community active participation in scheme design and implementation. The study strongly recommended establishment of National Insurance Fund (NIF) and legislative framework from both government and other partner organizations so that communities vulnerable to HWC will be in a position to legally file their cases in the event of any loss related to HWC. The findings of this study underpin the development of evidence-based compensation strategies, effectively alleviating HWC-related losses and cultivating a culture of symbiotic coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Bridging Gaps in Cybersecurity Governance: Leveraging Collaborative Digital Solutions
Authors: Obioha-Val Onyinye Agatha
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the effectiveness of collaborative digital solutions in addressing cybersecurity governance gaps within the educational sector, focusing on resource constraints, awareness deficits, and regulatory compliance challenges. Data from the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework Usage Dataset, the Global Threat Intelligence Sharing Alliance Data Repository, and the World Values Survey were utilized. Quantitative methodologies, including descriptive analysis, Difference-in-Differences, and logistic regression, were employed to analyze gaps, evaluate solution effectiveness, and explore barriers. Findings revealed significant governance gaps, with resource constraints showing a mean frequency of 140.3, the highest among categories. Collaborative solutions demonstrated a 49.3% reduction in breach incidents post-intervention. Logistic regression identified awareness as a major barrier with an odds ratio of 2.46. Recommendations include prioritizing cybersecurity awareness programs, enhancing access to collaborative solutions, standardizing data-sharing protocols, and investing in capacity-building initiatives to fortify institutional resilience.
Effect of Seed Priming, Beejamrit, Jeevamrit and Micronutrients on Symbiotic Traits, Growth Attributes, Dehydrogenase Activity, Leghaemoglobin Content, Protein Content and Grain Yield of Chickpea
Authors: Gupta S.C. , Maheshwari Nimisha , Sourabh
Published: January 2025

A field experiment was conducted at Research Farm area of R.A.K. (Rafi Ahmad Kidwai) College of Agriculture, Sehore, Madhya Pradesh during rabi season 2023-24 to study the effect of Seed priming, Beejamrit, Jeevamrit and Micronutrients (Zn and Mo) in combination with Rhizobium and PSB inoculation on symbiotic traits, growth attributes, soil dehydrogenase activity (DHA) and leghaemoglobin content in root nodules, protein content in seed and grain yield of chickpea crop grown with one irrigation in Vertisol. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 10 treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments comprised of T1: RDF + Rhizobium (Rh) + Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB), T2: RDF + Rh + PSB + Seed priming with water, T3: RDF + Rh + PSB + Beejamrit treatment (seed primed), T4: RDF + Rh + PSB + Seed priming with 0.05% Mo as Ammonium Molybdate (AM), T5: RDF + Rh + PSB + AM 1 gm kg-1 seed with inoculation, T6: RDF + Rh + PSB + Jeevamrit spray at 35 and 55 days after sowing (DAS), T7: T1 + 0.05% AM spray at 35 and 55 DAS, T8: T1 + 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.25% Lime spray at 35 and 55 DAS, T9: T1 + 0.05% AM + 0.25% ZnSO4 + 0.25% Lime spray at 35 and 55 DAS and T10: 50% RDF + Rh + PSB + Jeevamrit spray + 0.05% AM + 0.25% ZnSO4 + 0.25% Lime spray at 35 and 55 DAS. The symbiotic traits, growth attributes at 50 DAS and grain yield was significantly increased by the application of RDF + Rhizobium + PSB + Ammonium Molybdate @ 1 gm kg-1 seed with inoculation (T5), followed by treatment T10 (50% RDF + Rhizobium + PSB + Jeevamrit spray + 0.05% AM + 0.25% ZnSO4 + 0.25% Lime spray at 35 and 55 DAS). The T5 treatment produces about 26% higher grain yield over the RDF + Rhizobium + PSB (T1). The treatment T5 recorded highest protein content in seed i.e. 19.50%, followed by the treatment T10 (19.31%). DHA in rhizosphere soil and leghaemoglobin content in root nodules at 50 DAS was found maximum in treatment T5 (31.20 µg TPF [Triphenyl formazan] g-1 soil hr-1 and 3.10 mg g-1 respectively), followed by treatment T10 with values 30.60 µg TPF g-1 soil hr-1 and 3.08 mg g-1 respectively. The study indicated necessity of application of molybdenum wherever deficient in Vertisol under intensive (Soybean-Chickpea) cultivation of legumes, for enhancing productivity of chickpea and also gave indication that by integration of Jeevamrit spray + 0.05% AM + 0.25% ZnSO4 + 0.25% Lime spray at 35 and 55 DAS, a saving of 50% RDF can be made under existing practice. Further, this study also give an indication that the use of RDF along with biofertilizers i.e. Rhizobium + PSB and seed priming in beejamrit (T3) for four hours before sowing may also be a beneficial option with slightly lower, but statistically identical chickpea yield with highest yielded treatment T5.
How the Presence of an Authority Figure Influences Students’ Choices and Stress Levels: A One-Time Experimental Study
Authors: Antepuesto Jasmin Joy B. , Catandijan Nhika D. , Gecain Kannah S. , Culajara Claire Lynn
Published: January 2025

This study investigated how the presence of an authority figure influences individual choices. Specifically, it aimed to determine whether or not the presence of an authority figure increases the probability of following instructions to violate rules and how it impacts their stress levels when asked to go against their moral values. Using a true-experimental research design utilizing a between-subject design, participants (n = 40) were randomly assigned to either the group with an authority figure present or a group without an authority figure. An independent sample t-test showed a significant difference between the two groups in terms of obedience, showing the group with an authority figure having hig0068er obedience to authority (M = 3.6, SD = 1.47) than the group without an authority figure (M = 2.0, SD = 1.08). There was a noticeable difference t(38) = 3.94, p < .001, with a large effect size (d = 1.24). Nevertheless, neither group found no significant difference in stress levels (U = 186, p > 0.005, r = -0.07). Participants in a group with an authority figure reported stress levels (M = 2.70, SD = 1.49) comparable to those without an authority figure (M = 3.05, SD = 2.72). These findings were supported by other existing studies indicating that the willingness of an individual to follow unethical instructions was influenced by an authority figure but did not increase their level of stress due to the enjoyable nature of the task. Future research should examine possible moderating factors, such as gender differences and the perceived legitimacy of authoritative figures, to better understand the role of authority in moral decision-making.
Novel Environmental Remediation Techniques for Enhancing Public Health and Ecosystem Resilience
Authors: Isaiah Asefon Temitope
Published: January 2025

Aim: To address novel environmental remediation techniques for enhancing public health and ecosystem resilience.
Problem Statement: Anthropogenic activities such as deforestation, unplanned urbanization, unsafe agricultural practices and use of wasteful energy reservoirs together with population explosion and rapid industrialization have caused serious environmental pollution affecting public health and disrupting the ecosystem. Identified Prominent pollutants causing environmental worries have also been identified.
Significance of Study: The cleaning-up of hazardous contaminants using novel environmental remediation techniques to enhance public health and ecosystem resilience is imperative.
Methodology: Previous journals, literatures and other relevant materials which address environmental remediation techniques for contaminants removal were consulted.
Discussion: This review article addresses novel remediation methods for handling new contaminants together with innovative technological means in cleaning environment to achieve ecosystem resilience and enhance public health. Heavy metals, microplastics, pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals are the prominent emerging contaminants intimidating environmental quality and public health. There is need to take proactive steps to minimize the concentrations of these toxins which remain adamant in air, soil and water. Novel environmental remediation techniques for pollutants removal to enhance public health and ecosystem resilience are bioremediation, advanced oxidation processes, nanotechnology and using biomimetic materials and coatings.
Conclusion: It is vital to give supremacy to remediation initiatives to ascertain ecological justice. Overcoming pollution problem in order to restore ecological quality and build more resilient and healthier environment is achievable using novel environmental remediation techniques.
Integrated Management Modules for Root-knot Nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) in Tuberose
Authors: Vetrivelkalai P , Jothi Naga , Berliner J , SenthilKumar T , Priyadharshini V
Published: January 2025

Aims: Identification of effective Integrated Nematode Management for managing Meloidogyne incognita in tuberose.
Methodology: The In vitro experiment was conducted in nematode lab and field study experiment performed in sick field of Field No. 10, Botanical Garden, Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu  Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. The experiment was conducted in tuberose cv. Prajwal under drip as well as surface irrigated conditions with the spacing of 30 X 20 cm following randomized block design (RBD) with ten treatment modules and replicated thrice as mentioned below.
Results: The in vitro studies revealed that Acorus calamus and Swietenia mahogany culture filtrates showed spectacular ovicidal and juvenile mortality effects against Meloidogyne incognita, with 100% juvenile mortality and more than 93% egg hatching inhibition after 72 hours. Biocontrol agents among them, Purpureocillium lilacinum, recorded the highest percentage of ovicidal (91.35%) and juvenile mortality (95.67%). Among the management modules, the highest yield attributes such as early emergence of spike (100 days), spike length (78.30 cm), number of florets per spike (48.00) and flower yield (66.82g) was recorded in the module of bulb treatment with P. fluorescens @ 10g/kg bulbs + soil application of Carbofuran @ 1kg a.i./ha+ post plant application of P. fluorescens @ 2.5 kg/ha mixed with FYM @ 1 t/ha, while the lowest nematode population in soil (145.00) and root (52.33), least gall index (1.66) was recorded in the management module consisting of bulb treatment with carbosulfan 25 ST at 3 per cent concentration + soil application of Carbofuran @ 1kg a.i./ha+ post plant application of  P. lilacinum @ 2.5 kg/ha mixed with FYM @ 1 t/ha under field conditions.
Conclusion: According to the findings integrated management module reduced the nematode population compared to individual management methods.
Constraints Experienced by the Farmers in Respect of Gaining Knowledge and Adopting the Organic Farming Practices
Authors: Singh Shiv Avtar , Mishra N. K. , Yadav Pradeep Kumar
Published: January 2025

The challenges faced by farmers in Chitrakoot district, Uttar Pradesh, in adopting organic farming practices. Conducted across five blocks and 25 villages, data was collected from 250 randomly selected farmers using a descriptive research design to capture the current state of organic farming and the barriers to its adoption. The findings indicate that the most significant constraints hindering farmers from adopting organic practices include insufficient premium prices for organic produce (55.6%), lack of awareness (50.4%) and inadequate technical guidance (50.0%). Other notable challenges reported were small land holding, high input costs and limited market channels for organic products. The study suggests several measures to overcome these constraints, such as increasing awareness programs about organic farming benefits, providing financial support through low-interest loans and implementing government initiatives to directly purchase organic produce for programs like the Midday Meal Scheme. Additionally, establishing minimum support prices for organic products and enhancing access to organic inputs are recommended to improve the adoption rates of organic farming practices in the region. These insights are crucial for guiding policymakers and stakeholders in designing targeted interventions that promote organic farming, thereby improving agricultural sustainability and farmers' livelihoods. The findings also underscore the need for a holistic approach that addresses both market and non-market barriers to facilitate a transition towards more sustainable agricultural practices in Chitrakoot district.
Exposure Assessment
Authors: Paustenbach Dennis J. , Madl Amy K. , Massarsky Andrey
Published: December 2023

Exposure assessment is a critical step in the risk assessment process and is an important component of dose–response analysis and interpretation of causal associations in epidemiology studies. Exposure assessment describes the nature, magnitude, duration, and extent to which various populations are exposed to a chemical agent. There are several factors to consider when conducting an exposure assessment, such as contaminated media, route of exposure, timing of exposure (duration, frequency), and bioavailability. This chapter will review the general principles of exposure assessment, as well as methods and available tools for evaluating exposures from different media (air, soil, water, food) and different routes of exposure (dermal, oral, inhalation). Additionally, this chapter will review different methods for quantifying exposures, whether through direct measurement, historical reconstruction, modeling, or biomarkers/biomonitoring. Methods for quantifying variability and uncertainty in the exposure assessment through modeling and sensitivity analyses are also discussed. The field of exposure assessment has made significant advancements over the last several decades. The chapter will end on reflections of several lessons learned over the evolution of exposure assessment and insights for its future.
Titanium Dioxide
Authors: Battersby Rodger V. , Warheit David B.
Published: December 2023

Titanium is a naturally occurring element. The commercially most important titanium compound is pigmentary TiO2, whereas nano‐scaled TiO2represents only a small amount on the market. Since humans are exposed to TiO2at workplace or through consumer products, a thorough evaluation of its potential toxicity has been summarized herein. Dermal absorption of TiO2is deemed to be negligible, whereas oral and inhalation absorption has been reported but is assumed to be very low. TiO2has been shown to be of low acute oral, dermal, and inhalation toxicity and is considered to be void of skin and eye‐irritating properties. It also does not show any potential for skin and respiratory sensitization. Oral long‐term toxicity studies in rats report no adverse effects, and due to lack of dermal absorption of TiO2, it is assumed that dermal exposure is also not a hazard. TiO2does not show any primary mutagenicity and is also void of reproductive or developmental toxicity. However, in long‐term inhalation toxicity studies in rats, inflammation, fibroproliferative effects, and lung tumor formation has been observed but only under conditions of excessive particle lung overload. Carcinogenicity under such extreme conditions with complete cessation of lung clearance is considered to not imply a cancer hazard for humans, which is in line with epidemiological studies showing no causative link between TiO2particle exposure and cancer risk in humans. However, based on the available animal database, IARC in the past classified TiO2as possibly carcinogenic to humans, and the Risk Assessment Committee of ECHA also concluded that TiO2warrants a Category 2 classification for carcinogenicity.
Cross‐sectional association between blood cholesterol and calcium levels in genetically diverse strains of mice
Authors: Cousineau Cody M. , Loftus Kaelin , Churchill Gary A. , Bridges Dave
Published: December 2023

Genetically diverse outbred mice allow for the study of genetic variation in the context of high dietary and environmental control. Using a machine learning approach, we investigated clinical and morphometric factors that associate with serum cholesterol levels in 840 genetically unique Diversity Outbred mice of both sexes (n = 417 male and 423 female), and on both a control chow (% kcals in diet: protein 22%, carbohydrate 62%, fat 16%, no cholesterol) and high fat high sucrose (% kcals in diet: protein 15%, carbohydrate 41%, fat 45%, 0.05% cholesterol). We find expected elevations of cholesterol in male mice, as well as in mice with elevated serum triglycerides and/or fed a high fat high sucrose diet. The third strongest predictor was serum calcium which correlated with serum cholesterol across both diets and sexes (r = 0.39–0.48) in both Diversity Outbred (P = 3.0 × 10−43) and BXD (P = 0.005) mice. This is in‐line with several human cohort studies which show associations between calcium and cholesterol, and calcium as an independent predictor of cardiovascular events.
Improving Osseointegration Potential of 3D Printed PEEK Implants with Biomimetic Periodontal Ligament Fiber Hydrogel Surface Modifications
Authors: Xu Xiaojie , Zuo Jiahui , Zeng Huajing , Zhao Yuan , Fan Zengjie
Published: December 2023

The bioinertness, poor antibacterial properties, and weak osseointegration of polyether‐etherketone (PEEK) limit its clinical application as oral implants. In this study, it is developed a personalized and customizable PEEK implant with multifunctional capabilities through sequential 3D printing, surface sulfonation (SPEEK), and modification using a drug‐loaded photocured hydrogel composed of acrylic acid‐acrylamide (AA‐AM) containing simvastatin‐cefepime (SIM‐CFP). The modified implant, referred to as SCHSPEEK, mimics the structure of biomimetic periodontal ligament (PDL) fibers. The chemical composition, surface characteristics, and biological properties of SCHSPEEK both in vitro and in vivo are systematically investigated. The results demonstrate that hydrogel modification not only enhances hydrophilicity and reduces surface roughness and friction coefficient, but also improves biocompatibility, drug release, and antibacterial efficacy. Importantly, SCHSPEEK exhibits a significant improvement in osseointegration capacity in vivo. These findings highlight the potential of SCHSPEEK implants to serve as promising orthopedic and dental implants in clinical settings.
Strain‐driven Switching Between Antiferromagnetic States in Frustrated Antiferromagnet UO2 Probed by Exchange Bias Effect
Authors: Tereshina‐Chitrova Evgenia A. , Pourovskii Leonid V. , Khmelevskyi Sergii , Horak Lukas , Bao Zhaohui , Mackova Anna , Malinsky Petr , Gouder Thomas , Caciuffo Roberto
Published: December 2023

Frustrated antiferromagnets offer a captivating platform to study the intricate relationship of magnetic interactions, geometric constraints, and emergent phenomena. By controlling spin orientations, these materials can be tailored for applications in spintronics and quantum information processing. The research focuses on the interplay of magnetic and exchange anisotropy effects in artificial heterostructures based on a canonical frustrated antiferromagnet, UO2. The potential to manipulate the spin directions in this material and switch between distinct antiferromagnetic (AFM) states is investigated using substrate‐induced strain. The phenomenon is probed using exchange bias effects in stoichiometric UO2/Fe3O4 bilayers. By employing many‐body first‐principles calculations magnetic configurations in the UO2 layers are identified. Even a minor tetragonal distortion triggers a transition between AFM states of different symmetries, driven by a robust alteration of single‐ion anisotropy due to the distortion. Consequently, this change influences the arrangement of magnetic moments at the UO2/Fe3O4 interface, affecting the magnitude of exchange bias. The findings showcase how epitaxial strain can effectively manipulate the AFM states in frustrated antiferromagnets by controlling single‐site anisotropy.
Protonation Stimulates the Layered to Rock Salt Phase Transition of Ni‐Rich Sodium Cathodes
Authors: Xiao Biwei , Zheng Yu , Song Miao , Liu Xiang , Lee Gi‐Hyeok , Omenya Fred , Yang Xin , Engelhard Mark H. , Reed David , Yang Wanli , Amine Khalil , Xu Gui‐Liang , Balbuena Perla B. , Li Xiaolin
Published: December 2023

Protonation of oxide cathodes triggers surface transition metal dissolution and accelerates the performance degradation of Li‐ion batteries. While strategies are developed to improve cathode material surface stability, little is known about the effects of protonation on bulk phase transitions in these cathode materials or their sodium‐ion battery counterparts. Here, using NaNiO2 in electrolytes with different proton‐generating levels as model systems, a holistic picture of the effect of incorporated protons is presented. Protonation of lattice oxygens stimulate transition metal migration to the alkaline layer and accelerates layered‐rock‐salt phase transition, which leads to bulk structure disintegration and anisotropic surface reconstruction layers formation. A cathode that undergoes severe protonation reactions attains a porous architecture corresponding to its multifold performance fade. This work reveals that interactions between electrolyte and cathode that result in protonation can dominate the structural reversibility/stability of bulk cathodes, and the insight sheds light for the development of future batteries.
A Comparative Study of NiCo2O4, NiO, and Co3O4 Electrocatalysts Synthesized by a Facile Spray Pyrolysis For Electrochemical Water Oxidation
Authors: Qu Yuanju , Gomaa Mohammed M. , Sayed Mohamed H. , Boshta Mostafa , Greczynski Grzegorz , Yakimova Rositsa , Sun Jianwu
Published: December 2023

Exploiting low‐cost, highly active, and robust oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts based on earth‐abundant elements by a simple synthesis approach holds paramount importance for green hydrogen production through water electrolysis. In this work, the NiO, Co3O4 and NiCo2O4 nanoparticle layers with identical surface morphologies are prepared under same deposition conditions by a simple spray pyrolysis method and their OER activities are comparatively investigated. Among all these three electrocatalysts, NiCo2O4 shows the lowest overpotential of 420 mV to drive benchmark current density of 10 mA cm−2 and the smallest Tafel slope (84.1 mV dec−1), which are comparable to the OER performance of the benchmark commercial RuO2 electrocatalyst. The high OER activity of NiCo2O4 is attributed to the synergy effect and the modulation of electronic properties between Co and Ni atoms, which drastically reduces the overpotential required to drive OER activities. Therefore, it is believed that the NiCo2O4 synthesized by this simple method would be a competitive candidate as an industrial electrocatalyst with high‐efficiency and low cost for large‐scale green hydrogen production via water electrolysis.
Toward a Greener Bioeconomy: Synthesis and Characterization of Lignin–Polylactide Copolymers
Authors: Langletz Tim , Grande Philipp M. , Viell Jörn , Wolters Daniel , Tonn Josia , Klose Holger , Schriever Sascha G. , Hoffmann Alexander , Jupke Andreas , Gries Thomas , Herres-Pawlis Sonja
Published: December 2023

In the modern world, plastics have become indispensable. Due to their properties, they are used for a wide variety of applications ranging from packaging materials to textiles and medical technology. The vast majority of these plastics are made from finite fossil feedstocks that will need to be replaced in the long term to meet consumer demands in the future. Intensive research is being conducted into alternative bio‐based feedstocks to replace petroleum‐based plastics with more environmentally friendly variants. This includes polylactide, a polyester derived from lactic acid, which is mainly used as packaging material. In this work, star‐shaped copolymers consisting of polylactide and OrganoCat lignin with varying lignin loadings are synthesized using a “grafting‐from” approach directly from the lactide melt using a zinc‐based guanidine catalyst. This method proves to be efficient and copolymers can be produced after 30 min to three hours with high lactide conversions. Kinetic studies are performed to investigate the influence of different lignin loadings on the polymerization rate and 31P NMR experiments are used to analyze the functionalization of the lignin. Thermal analysis reveals an increase of the glass transition temperature and a higher thermal decomposition temperature with increasing lignin content.
Uncertainty in a globalizing world. Livelihood and fertility variance increases in response to rapid change
Authors: Kramer Karen L. , Hackman Joseph V.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

The extreme condition that we address in this special issue is how people adapt to rapid change, which in this case study is instigated by globalization and the process of market integration. Although market integration has been underway for centuries in some parts of the world, it often occurs precipitously in small‐scale societies, initiating an abrupt break with traditional ways of life and fostering a keen sense of uncertainty.

Methods

Using cross sections from 30‐years of data collected in a Yucatec Maya subsistence farming community, we test the expectation that when payoffs to pursue new livelihood and reproductive options are uncertain, variance in social, economic, and reproductive traits will increase in the population. Our data span the transition from subsistence farming to a mixed economy, and bridge the transition from natural to contracepting fertility. Exposure to globalizing and market forces occurred when a paved road was built in the early 2000s.

Results

We find that livelihood traits (a household's primary economic strategy, amount of land under cultivation, amount of maize and honey sold), become more variable as new, but uncertain options become available. Variance in levels of education and family size likewise immediately increase following the road, but show signs of settling back down a decade later. Rather than replacing one way of life with another, Maya farmers conservatively adopt some new elements (family planning, wage labor), until the tradeoffs to commit to smaller families and the labor market become clearer.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight that in rapidly changing environments when the payoffs to assimilate new options are uncertain, some households and individuals intensify what they know best, while others adopt new opportunities, driving variance up in the population.
Expanding the phenotypic and genotypic spectrum of GGPS1 related congenital muscular dystrophy
Authors: Altassan Ruqaiah , AlQudairy Hanan , AlJebreen Sarah , AlMuhaizea Mohammed , Al‐Hindi Hindi , Pena‐Guerra Karla A. , Ghebeh Hazem , Almzroua Amer , Albakheet Albandary , AlDosary Mazhor , Colak Dilek , Arold Stefan T. , Kaya Namik
Published: December 2023

Congenital muscular dystrophies are a group of progressive disorders with wide range of symptoms associated with diverse cellular mechanisms. Recently, biallelic variants in GGPS1 were linked to a distinct autosomal recessive form of muscular dystrophy associated with hearing loss and ovarian insufficiency. In this report, we present a case of a young patient with a homozygous variant in GGPS1. The patient presented with only proximal muscle weakness, and elevated liver transaminases with spared hearing function. The hepatic involvement in this patient caused by a novel deleterious variant in the gene extends the phenotypic and genotypic spectrum of GGPS1 related muscular dystrophy.
Validation and modification of simplified Geriatric Assessment and Elderly Prognostic Index: Effective tools for older patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Yun Xiaoya , Bai Jiefei , Feng Ru , Li Jiangtao , Wang Ting , Yang Yazi , Yin Jingjing , Qian Long , Zhang Shuai , Cao Qingyun , Xue Xiaoxuan , Jing Hongmei , Liu Hui
Published: December 2023

Geriatric assessment can aid in optimizing treatment strategies and supportive interventions for older patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Fondazione Italiana Linformi has recently introduced novel geriatric assessment tools, simplified Geriatric Assessment (sGA) and Elderly Prognostic Index (EPI), aimed at tailoring the treatment and predicting the outcomes for older patients with DLBCL. The objectives of this study are the validation and possible modification of the sGA and EPI in China. In the study, both sGA and EPI demonstrated the predictive capabilities for overall survival (OS) and early mortality (both p < 0.05) in older individuals with DLBCL. Albumin, serving as an independent predictive biomarker for OS (p = 0.006), was utilized to adjust the measurements, resulting in the establishment of sGA‐A and EPI‐A. The sGA‐A effectively addressed the shortcomings of the sGA and EPI in predicting PFS and surpassed them in predicting OS and early mortality. Nevertheless, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of sGA and EPI as treatment guidance tools. In conclusion, the modified sGA‐A model proved to be a successful instrument for geriatric assessment of older patients with DLBCL.
What characteristics do we look for in our political leaders?
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: December 2023

It's almost impossible to believe that in a few months, the citizens of the United States of America will be electing either our 46th or 47th president, depending on whether the incumbent wins. In some ways, it seems like the past three years have flown by, and in other ways, it seems the years have dragged on. The year 2024 could go by either really fast or really slow.
Know the ins and outs of notifying parents about student suspensions, disciplinary actions
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: December 2023

Although some student–parent relationships aren’t all we would like them to be, we do have an obligation to ensure we comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act during any disclosure of education records to parents.
Comparison of the Glucocorticoid Receptor Binding and Agonist Activities of Typical Glucocorticoids: Insights into Their Endocrine Disrupting Effects
Authors: Liang Yuan , Li Zhuolin , Zhang Jie , Li Tiezhu , Lv Chengyu
Published: December 2023

Over the past decades, the synthetic glucocorticoids (GCs) have been widely used in clinical practice and animal husbandry. Given the health hazard of these toxic residues in food, it is necessary to explore the detailed interaction mechanisms of typical GCs and their main target glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Hence, this work compared the GR binding and agonist activities of typical GCs. Fluorescence polarization assay showed that these GCs were potent ligands of GR. Their GR binding affinities were in the order of methylprednisolone>betamethasone≈prednisolone>dexamethasone, with IC50 values of 1.67, 2.94, 2.95, and 5.58 nM. Additionally, the limits of detection of dexamethasone, betamethasone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone were 0.32, 0.14, 0.19, and 0.09 μg/kg in fluorescence polarization assay. Reporter gene assay showed that these GCs induced GR transactivation in a dose‐dependent manner, confirming their GR agonist activities. Among which, dexamethasone at the concentration of 100 nM produced a maximal induction of more than 11‐fold over the blank control. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations suggested that hydrogen‐bonding and hydrophobic interactions played an important role in stabilizing the GC‐GR‐LBD complexes. In summary, this work might help to understand the GR‐mediated endocrine disrupting effects of typical GCs.
Extensive ischemic gastroduodenal necrosis caused by antihypertensive drug overdose in a young man
Authors: Yuan Tao , Sun Ji , Ma Qin
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

To raise the awareness of the rare and life‐threatening clinical entity, we report a 23‐year‐old male presenting with acute abdomen who was finally diagnosed with gastroduodenal necrosis due to gut hypoperfusion after antihypertensive drug overdose.
Surface Display and Engineering of Laccase CotA for Increased Growth of Pseudomonas putida on Lignin
Authors: Gesing Katrin , Lenz Florian , Schreiber Sebastian , Kasimir Matthias , Humpf Hans‐Ulrich , Jose Joachim
Published: December 2023

Lignin is an underutilized raw material. Existing processes in which bacteria degrade lignin and produce added value products are not economically feasible yet due to limited lignin degradation. The aim of our study was to enhance microbial lignin degradation by surface‐display of the bacterial laccase CotA from the thermophilic Bacillus coagulans. Enzyme engineering of surface‐displayed CotA was used to increase its activity at 30 °C for the application at moderate temperatures. Libraries of CotA were created using error‐prone PCR and site saturation mutagenesis. Two different substrates with distinct binding properties in CotA were utilized for activity screening to detect variants with enhanced activity regardless of substrate specificity. Combination of favorable mutations resulted in the variant CotA T260S/L385K/F416R which showed 1.95‐fold and 13.4‐fold activity of CotA with 2,2’‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 2,6‐dimethoxyphenol (2,6‐DMP) as substrate, respectively. All mutations were located within the substrate binding site. The KM‐value of CotA T260S/L385K/F416R was increased with ABTS (2.08 mM versus 0.44 mM of ancestor CotA) and decreased with 2,6‐DMP (0.31 mM versus 3.79 mM of ancestor CotA). Surface display of the identified variant CotA T260S/L385K/F416R on Pseudomonas putida enhanced its growth on lignin.
Bifunctional Substrates: In‐situ Ni, Fe co‐doped Cobalt Carbonate Hydroxides for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Sun Yiqing , Liang Xiongyi , Yin Di , Zhang Yuxuan , Chen Dong , Yue Kaihang , Cai Ziyan , Bu Xiuming , Wang Xianying , Ho Johnny C.
Published: December 2023

Developing highly efficient and stable electrocatalysts with large current densities for hydrogen and oxygen evolution is still challenging. Herein, Ni and Fe co‐doped cobalt carbonate hydroxide catalysts were designed in situ on the three‐dimensional porous NiFe foam through a facile one‐step hydrothermal strategy. Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrum, transmission electron microscopy‐element mapping, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and DFT calculations demonstrate that the three‐dimensional NiFe foam substrate not only serves as the porous substrate, which enhances the exposed number of active sites, but also enhances the intrinsic activities of single active sites via introducing Ni and Fe dopants in the cobalt carbonate hydroxide catalyst during the hydrothermal process. The obtained hybrid electrocatalyst can be employed as a highly efficient and stable bifunctional electrocatalyst for the oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions, with overpotentials of 340 mV and 371 mV at 1000 mA cm−2, respectively. In addition, tests in an alkaline electrolyzer revealed that the current density could reach 1000 mA cm−2 at a voltage of 2 V and maintain stable operation for 100 h.
Visible Light‐Induced Ru‐Catalyzed Directing‐Group‐Assisted C−H Activation of Arenes
Authors: Wang Xinjuan , An Guanghui , Li Guangming
Published: December 2023

Ru‐catalyzed directing group assisted C−H functionalization of arenes remains one of the powerful tools for site selective organic synthesis. Previous thermos versions normally require high temperature, rendering low functional group tolerance. With the emergence of the photoredox chemistry, visible light mediated mild Ru‐catalyzed directed C−H activation, especially using [RuCl2(p‐cymene)]2 as catalyst, have recently been investigated. Meta, ortho, and para selectivity have been achieved owing to the different activation mode of ruthenium complex. Inner‐sphere electron transfer and outer‐sphere electron transfer redox processes were attributed to different reaction pathway. In this review, we will provide an overview on recent achievements in visible light mediated Ru‐catalyzed directed C−H activation of arenes.
Influence of Process Parameters on the Electrochemical Properties of Hierarchically Structured Na3V2(PO4)3/C Composites
Authors: Häringer Marcel , Geßwein Holger , Bohn Nicole , Ehrenberg Helmut , Binder Joachim R.
Published: December 2023

Sodium vanadium phosphate Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP) is a promising next‐generation cathode material for sodium‐ion batteries (SIB) but the practical application as a cathode active material for SIBs is hindered by its poor electronic conductivity. To overcome this limitation and to improve the electrochemical performance in terms of rate capability and cycling stability, carbon coatings are a viable approach. In this work, we utilized a spray‐drying synthesis process and systematically varied the processing parameters to optimize the electrochemical performance of NVP/carbon composite materials. The spray‐drying process yields spherical, porous granules of NVP particles embedded in a carbon matrix, which is formed by the thermal decomposition of polyacrylic acid or β‐lactose.
Molecular Actuation of a Bistable Liquid‐Crystalline [c2]Daisy Chain Rotaxane
Authors: Carmona‐Vargas Christian C. , Faour Lara , Tokunaga Shoichi , Constantin Doru , Fleith Guillaume , Moulin Emilie , Giuseppone Nicolas
Published: December 2023

A bistable [c2]daisy chain rotaxane bearing two mesogenic units was synthesized, and its liquid crystal phase diagram was characterized. As a remarkable result, this study demonstrates that, depending on the contracted or extended state of its mechanical bond, the system can convert between an isotropic and a smectic A mesophase at constant temperature.
A case of myasthenia gravis following alopecia areata
Authors: Sasaki Naoki , Sawada Yu
Published: December 2023

We present a case of myasthenia gravis that occurred after alopecia areata and evaluate the literature on the comorbidity of alopecia and myasthenia gravis. A 41‐year‐old male noticed hair loss on his scalp 4 months ago, and his hair loss progressed with drooping of both upper eyelids and diplopia. Physical and laboratory examination identified the comorbidity of myasthenia gravis and alopecia areata. Prednisolone 10 mg/day and tacrolimus 3 mg/day were administered for 7 days following hospitalization, which served to improve diplopia and ptosis. Following methylprednisolone therapy, hair loss in alopecia areata improved without the enlargement of bald areas. Based on the literature review, a total of 29 cases with alopecia and myasthenia gravis including our case have been reported. Among them, seven cases of myasthenia gravis developed after alopecia. The average time for the onset of myasthenia gravis after alopecia was 16.6 months. Four cases showed other autoimmune disease comorbidity, such as vitiligo, lichen planus, cutaneous lupus erythematosus, and pemphigus foliaceus, suggesting the involvement of Th1‐significant immunological states in these patients.
Identification of novel prognostic autoantibodies in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma treated with rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone via a high‐throughput antigen microarray
Authors: Dai Liyuan , Chen Haizhu , Tan Qiaoyun , Wang Yanrong , Li Lin , Lou Ning , Fan Guangyu , Xie Tongji , Luo Rongrong , Wang Shasha , Zhou Yu , Zhong Qiaofeng , Yao Jiarui , Zhang Zhishang , Tang Le , Shi Yuankai , Han Xiaohong
Published: December 2023

Background

R‐CHOP (rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) is a standard first‐line treatment for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). However, 20%–40% of patients survive less than 5 years. Novel prognostic biomarkers remain in demand.

Methods

Baseline plasma autoantibodies (AAbs) were assessed in 336 DLBCLs. In the discovery phase (n = 20), a high‐density antigen microarray (∼21,000 proteins) was used to expound AAb profiles. In the verification phase (n = 181), with a DLBCL‐focused microarray, comparative results based on event‐free survival at 24 months (EFS24) and lasso Cox regression models of progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were integrated to identify potential biomarkers. They were further validated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in validation phase 1 (n = 135) and a dynamic cohort (n = 12). In validation phase 2, a two‐AAb‐based risk score was established. They were further validated in an immunohistochemistry cohort (n = 55) and four independent Gene Expression Omnibus datasets (n = 1598).

Results

Four AAbs (CREB1, N4BP1, UBAP2, and DEAF1) were identified that showed associations with EFS24 status (p < .05) and superior PFS and OS (p < .05). A novel risk score model based on CREB1 and N4BP1 AAbs was developed to predict PFS with areas under the curve of 0.72, 0.71, 0.76, and 0.82 at 1, 3, 5, and 7 years, respectively, in DLBCL treated with R‐CHOP independent of the International Prognostic Index (IPI) and provided significant additional recurrence risk discrimination (p < .05) for the IPI. CREB1 and N4BP1 proteins and messenger RNAs were also associated with better PFS and OS (p < .05).

Conclusions

This study identified a novel prognostic panel of CREB1, N4BP1, DEAF1, and UBAP2 AAbs that is independent of the IPI in DLBCL.
Consider the reflections of a recently retired academic leader, Part I
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: December 2023

I asked a former colleague to reflect on his career and recent retirement. Joe Alexander and I worked together in the admissions office of Harding University in 1980–1981. Before attaching the answers to my questions, he wrote some additional comments that he stipulated were “not for the article but mostly for you.” Well, I liked it so much I asked if I could use it for the column. He agreed. He earned a D.B.A. in marketing; you might be able to guess that from his answers.
Navigating the white waters with servant leadership
Authors: Connor Cassandra
Published: December 2023

No one ever promised that the university department chair position was going to be an easy one. On any given day, the chair has the responsibility to make a multitude of decisions, with each decision having the potential to impact the department either positively or negatively. Consequently, effective department leaders have developed their own special skill set that helps them to make the right decisions at the right times, relying on research and data to support their decisions.
Limited remedies for prevailing schools in ADA/504 cases
Authors: Charmatz Marc
Published: December 2023

A lot has been written about the remedies available to students with disabilities who prevail in complaints under the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 post Cummings v. Premier Rehab Keller, but colleges and universities need to know the limited remedies available to them if they prevail in disability rights litigation, that is, attorneys’ fees in very rare instances and costs.
New academy for individuals with special needs opens in New Jersey
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: December 2023

Rowan College of New Jersey recently partnered with Rowan University, local governments, and local school districts to create the Academy for Neurodiversity, which will be located on the college's campus (https://bit.ly/3uK7aQQ). Officials hope the collaborative program will be a “national model for integrating lifelong services for the developmentally disabled.” The project is being funded with $11 million in trust and grant funds.
Discrimination
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: December 2023

An overview of the key topics faced by disability services providers with citations to noteworthy cases, statutes, regulations, and additional sources.