bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and testing of varying magnetic field effect in a pulsatility blood flow of viscoelastic material: Flexibility analysis in a curved channel
Authors: Javed Maryiam , Imran Naveed , Rao Areeba I.
Published: May 2021

This paper attempts to investigate the peristaltic mechanism of Williamson fluid in a pipe flow under the influence of variable radial magnetic field along with slip effects and compliant walls. Viscous dissipation and thermophoresis effects are also considered. The solutions of coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations are obtained using the perturbation technique and results are graphically represented. The effects on heat, mass, velocity, and heat transfer coefficient are studied under various pertinent parameters. The outcomes of the present model can be applied in various fields of biomedical engineering where smart peristaltic pumps can be engineered to transport the biological fluids without any contamination. The scope of the present article is valuable in explaining the blood transport dynamics in small vessels while considering the important wall features with chemical reaction characteristics.
Trends in subdermal contraceptive implant use in Mexico 2009–2018: A population‐based study
Authors: Darney Blair G. , Fuentes‐Rivera Evelyn , Corbin Andrea , Saavedra‐Avendano Biani , Schiavon Raffaela
Published: May 2021

Objective

To describe subdermal implant use in Mexico over time, by state and by age.

Methods

We conducted a repeated cross‐sectional study using the 2009, 2014, and 2018 waves of the National Survey of Demographic Dynamics (Encuesta Nacional de la Dinámica Demográfica [ENADID]). Our outcome was current use of contraception, by type, with a focus on the implant. We used visualizations, descriptive and bivariate statistics, and multinomial models to assess change over time, geographic patterns, method mix, and factors associated with implant use (vs intrauterine device [IUD] or other hormonal methods).

Results

Implant use is increasing over time in Mexico, from 1.1% of women who have ever used a method in 2009 to 4.5% in 2018 (P < 0.001); the change is greatest among adolescents (2.5% in 2009 to 12.2% in 2018; P < 0.001). Change in implant use as a fraction of modern method use was heterogeneous across Mexican states. The adjusted relative likelihood of using an implant compared with IUD was 34% higher for adolescents compared with women aged 20–29 years (relative risk ratio 1.34, 95% confidence interval 1.16–1.55, P < 0.001), controlling for other variables in the model.

Conclusion

Use of subdermal implants is increasing over time in Mexico and is concentrated among adolescents. Implants have the potential to expand access to highly effective contraception in Mexico.
Maternal mental health and early childhood development: Exploring critical periods and unique sources of support
Authors: Farewell Charlotte V. , Melnick Emily , Leiferman Jenn
Published: May 2021

Background

The objective of this study was to explore associations between maternal depression and anxiety during early sensitive periods, child social–emotional and behavioral problems and the moderating roles of financial, instrumental, and partner emotional support.

Methods

Analyses was conducted using data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study. Hierarchical linear regression modeling was used to explore associations between maternal depression and anxiety at 1‐ and 3‐years postpartum, three unique types of social support, and childhood behavioral problems at 5‐years of age (n = 2,827).

Results

Mothers who were depressed at one or both timepoints, compared to nondepressed mothers, reported higher externalizing behavioral problems scores of 1.96 and 2.90, and internalizing behavioral problems scores of 1.16 and 2.20, respectively, at 5‐years of age (both p < .01), after controlling for covariates. Financial, instrumental, and partner emotional support were independently and inversely associated with behavioral problems (p < .05); however, none of these types of support moderated the relationship between maternal depression and behavioral problems, after controlling for covariates.

Implications

Promoting maternal mental health as well as different sources of support throughout the first five years of life, instead of one critical period, may help to reduce the burden of chronic disease in the next generation.
Improvement of farmland drainage calculation method under environmental change in Huaibei plain*
Authors: Wang Jun‐feng , Zhu Mei , Wang Zhen‐long , Zhang Tian‐tong , Qi Yin‐fan , Zhu Ling‐ling
Published: May 2021

Changes and new thoughts are vital if the farmland drainage method in the Huabei Plain is to be improved. In this article, drainage flow was chosen as the research object. Based on long‐series precipitation data, the spatial distribution of precipitation was analysed. The peak value relation index (m) was either adjusted or unadjusted in contrast calculations with the empirical formula and the average draining formula. The adjustment rationality and adjustment range of m were researched. Results of calculations were analysed and used to improve the applicability of the empirical formula. The spatial distribution of precipitation showed a decreasing trend from south‐west to north‐east. Before adjustment, the result of the empirical formula was equivalent to the flow of 1 day of draining water. After adjusting m to 0.84–0.87, the result was equivalent to the flow of 1.5 days of draining water. With the decrease of rainfall frequency, the drainage flow of the average draining formula was greater than that of the empirical formula and the ratio was 1.13 times when the runoff depth was 50 mm. m can be selected from 0.84 to 0.87 for calculating drainage flow in the Huabei Plain by using the empirical formula and has a direct ratio with precipitation.
Components of the Gut Microbiome That Influence Bone Tissue-Level Strength
Authors: Luna Marysol , Guss Jason D , Vasquez-Bolanos Laura S , Castaneda Macy , Rojas Manuela Vargas , Strong Jasmin M , Alabi Denise A , Dornevil Sophie D , Nixon Jacob C , Taylor Erik A , Donnelly Eve , Fu Xueyan , Shea M Kyla , Booth Sarah L , Bicalho Rodrigo , Hernandez Christopher J
Published: May 2021

Modifications to the constituents of the gut microbiome influence bone density and tissue-level strength, but the specific microbial components that influence tissue-level strength in bone are not known. Here, we selectively modify constituents of the gut microbiota using narrow-spectrum antibiotics to identify components of the microbiome associated with changes in bone mechanical and material properties. Male C57BL/6J mice (4 weeks) were divided into seven groups (n = 7–10/group) and had taxa within the gut microbiome removed through dosing with: (i) ampicillin; (ii) neomycin; (iii) vancomycin; (iv) metronidazole; (v) a cocktail of all four antibiotics together (with zero-calorie sweetener to ensure intake); (vi) zero-calorie sweetener only; or (vii) no additive (untreated) for 12 weeks. Individual antibiotics remove only some taxa from the gut, while the cocktail of all four removes almost all microbes. After accounting for differences in geometry, whole bone strength was reduced in animals with gut microbiome modified by neomycin (−28%, p = 0.002) and was increased in the group in which the gut microbiome was altered by sweetener alone (+39%, p < 0.001). Analysis of the fecal microbiota detected seven lower-ranked taxa differentially abundant in animals with impaired tissue-level strength and 14 differentially abundant taxa associated with increased tissue-level strength. Histological and serum markers of bone turnover and trabecular bone volume per tissue volume (BV/TV) did not differ among groups. These findings demonstrate that modifications to the taxonomic components of the gut microbiome have the potential to decrease or increase tissue-level strength of bone independent of bone quantity and without noticeable changes in bone turnover. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
The clinical significance of spondin 2 eccentric expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in bronchial asthma
Authors: Zhou Peng , Xiang Cai‐xia , Wei Jin‐feng
Published: May 2021

Background

Bronchial asthma (BA) was a heterogeneous disease characterized by chronic airway inflammation. Spondin 2 (SPON2) was reported to be implicated in the integrin pathway, protein metabolism, and drug‐induced lupus erythematosus. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the significance of SPON2 in BA diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

Peripheral blood samples were obtained from 137 BA pediatric patients (61 mild‐to‐moderate BA and 76 severe BA) and 59 healthy children. Subject's information, clinical indexes, pulmonary ventilation functions were recorded in the two groups. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from patients’ samples. qRT‐PCR and ELISA assays were employed to examine the levels of SPON2 and inflammatory cytokines, respectively. Pearson's correlation analysis confirmed the association between SPON2 and inflammatory cytokines. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the potentials of SPON2 in terms of BA detection and discriminating against the severity of BA.

Results

Bioinformatics analysis showed that SPON2, OLFM4, XIST, and TSIX were significantly upregulated, while KDM5D and RPS4Y1 were reduced in BA. GO analysis verified that these six genes were mainly involved in neutrophil degranulation, neutrophil activation involved in immune response, neutrophil activation, and neutrophil‐mediated immunity. After isolating PBMCs, we found that SPON2 was remarkably increased in BA pediatric group compared with healthy children, and the relative levels of SPON2 were related to the severity of BA. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed the high potentials of SPON2 in BA diagnosis (AUC was 0.8080) and severity distinctions (AUCs were 0.7341 and 0.8541, respectively). Also, we found that there were significant differences in fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)%, FEV1/ forced vital capacity (FVC)%, immunoglobulin E (IgE), serum eosinophils, and serum neutrophils between mild‐to‐moderate BA group and severe BA group. Finally, SPON2 was negatively correlated with IL‐12 while positively associated with IL‐4, IL‐13, and IL‐17A.

Conclusions

SPON2 was a viable biomarker for diagnosing and degree of severity in BA, providing more insight into exploring BA and treatment's pathogenesis.
Trajectories of depression in aging veterans and former prisoners‐of‐war: The role of social support and hardiness
Authors: Bachem Rahel , Zhou Xiao , Levin Yafit , Solomon Zahava
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Depression is a prevalent outcome of traumatic experiences, such as combat and war captivity. This study explores the heterogeneity of changes over time and assesses the contribution of trauma exposure (combat vs. war captivity), hardiness, and social support for depression trajectories.

Methods

Two groups of Israeli veterans were assessed in 1991, 2003, 2008, and 2015: 149 former prisoners‐of‐war (ex‐POWs) and 107 combat veterans. Protective factors were evaluated in 1991. Group‐based trajectory modeling was conducted to identify latent trajectories of change.

Results

Four trajectories of “resiliency” (62.8%), “delayed onset” (25.1%), “exacerbation” (6.2%), and “chronicity” (5.9%) were found. The majority of the resilient group were combat veterans whereas the clinical groups consisted primarily of ex‐POWs. Lower hardiness and social support were related to more deleterious trajectories.

Conclusions

Spirals of loss involving hardiness and social support, normative experiences, and contextual factors may present explanations for the various depression trajectories.
Relational ethics meets principled practice in community research engagements to understand and address homelessness
Authors: Hodgetts Darrin , Rua Mohi , Groot Shiloh , Hopner Veronica , Drew Neil , King Pita , Blake Denise
Published: May 2021

Growing homelessness in Aotearoa New Zealand stems primarily from rising inequalities and poverty. Drawing from scholarship on relational ethics, principled practice and Māori cultural concepts, this paper offers our reflections on nearly two decades of collective work to document and address homelessness. Central to the approach outlined are enduring community partnerships, the cultivation of reciprocal relations, and time spent with homeless people and those trying to work with them. We present exemplars for how we draw on everyday interactions with homeless people and agency staff to enhance local service and broader systemic responses to homelessness.
Cinchona‐alkaloid‐based zwitterionic chiral stationary phases as potential tools for high‐performance liquid chromatographic enantioseparation of cationic compounds of pharmaceutical relevance
Authors: Tanács Dániel , Bajtai Attila , Berkecz Róbert , Forró Enikő , Fülöp Ferenc , Lindner Wolfgang , Péter Antal , Ilisz István
Published: May 2021

Enantiomers of cationic compounds of pharmaceutical relevance, namely tetrahydro‐ß‐carboline and 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroisoquinoline analogs, were separated by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Separations were performed on Cinchona‐alkaloid‐based zwitterionic ion exchanger type chiral stationary phases applied as cation exchangers using mixtures of methanol and acetonitrile or tetrahydrofuran as bulk solvent components containing triethylammonium acetate or ammonium acetate as organic salt additives. On the zwitterionic ZWIX(+) and ZWIX(−) columns investigated, retention and enantioseparation of the studied basic analytes were influenced by the nature and concentration of the organic components of the mobile phase. The effect of organic salt additives on the retention behavior of the studied analytes can be described by the stoichiometric displacement model related to the counterion concentration. Investigations on the structure–retention relationships were performed applying different mobile phase systems for the two types of cationic analytes. For the thermodynamic characterization, parameters such as changes in standard enthalpy (Δ(ΔH°)), entropy (Δ(ΔS°)), and free energy (Δ(ΔG°)) were calculated on the basis of van't Hoff plots derived from the ln α versus 1/T curves. In most cases, enthalpy‐driven enantioseparations were observed, with a consistent dependence of the calculated thermodynamic parameters on the mobile phase composition. Elution sequences of the studied compounds were determined in all cases.
Antifibrotic Role of Nintedanib in Tracheal Stenosis After a Tracheal Wound
Authors: Fan Yuhua , Li Xin , Fang Xing , Liu Yalan , Zhao Suping , Yu Zicheng , Tang Yaoyun , Wu Ping
Published: May 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Tracheal stenosis is an obstructive disease of the upper airway that commonly develops as a result of abnormal wound healing. We evaluated the anti‐inflammatory and antifibrotic properties of nintedanib on tracheal stenosis both in vitro and in vivo.

Study Design

Prospective controlled animal study and in vitro comparative study of human cells.

Methods

An animal model of tracheal stenosis was induced via tracheal trauma. Postsurgical rats were orally administered with nintedanib (10 or 20 mg/kg/d) or saline (negative control) for 2 weeks, and tracheal specimens were harvested after 3 weeks. Degree of stenosis, collagen deposition, fibrotic surrogate markers expression, and T‐lymphocytic infiltration were evaluated. Human fetal lung fibroblast‐1 (HFL‐1) cells were cultured to determine the effects of nintedanib on changes of cellular biological function induced by transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1).

Results

Rat tracheal stenotic tissues exhibited thickened lamina propria with irregular epithelium, characterized by significantly increased collagen deposition and elevated TGF‐β1, collagen I, α‐SMA and fibronectin expressions. Nintedanib markedly attenuated the tracheal stenotic lesions, reduced the collagen deposition and the expression of fibrotic marker proteins, and mitigated CD4+ T‐lymphocyte infiltration. Additionally, cellular proliferation and migration were decreased dose‐dependently in TGF‐β1‐stimulated HFL‐1 cells when treated with nintedanib. Furthermore, nintedanib inhibited TGF‐β1‐induced HFL‐1 differentiation and reduced the mRNA levels of the profibrotic genes. TGF‐β1‐activated phosphorylation of the TGF‐β/Smad2/3 and ERK1/2 pathways were also blocked by nintedanib.

Conclusion

Nintedanib effectively prevented tracheal stenosis in rats by inhibiting fibrosis and inflammation. The antifibrotic effect of nintedanib may be achieved by inhibiting fibroblasts' proliferation, migration and differentiation and suppressing the TGF‐β1/Smad2/3 and ERK1/2 signaling pathways.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:E2496–E2505, 2021
Structural Transitions During Formation and Rehydration of Proton Conducting Polymeric Membranes
Authors: Viviani Marco , Lova Paola , Portale Giuseppe
Published: May 2021

Knowledge of the transitions occurring during the formation of ion‐conducting polymer films and membranes is crucial to optimize material performances. The use of non‐destructive scattering techniques that offer high spatio‐temporal resolution is essential to investigating such structural transitions, especially when combined with complementary techniques probing at different time and spatial scales. Here, a simultaneous multi‐technique study is performed on the membrane formation mechanism and the subsequent hydration of two ion‐conducting polymers, the well‐known commercial Nafion and a synthesized sulfonated poly(phenylene sulfide sulfone) (sPSS). The X‐ray data distinguish the multi‐stage processes occurring during drying. A sol‐gel‐membrane transition sequence is observed for both polymers. However, while Nafion membrane evolves from a micellar solution through the formation of a phase‐separated gel, forming an oriented supported membrane, sPSS membrane evolves from a solution of dispersed polyelectrolyte chains via formation of an inhomogeneous gel, showing assembly and ionic phase separation only at the end of the drying process. Impedance spectroscopy data confirm the occurrence of the sol‐gel transitions, while gel‐membrane transitions are detected by optical reflectance data. The simultaneous multi‐technique approach presented here can connect the nanoscale to the macroscopic behavior, unraveling information essential to optimize membrane formation of different ion‐conducting polymers.
Simultaneous detection of hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide based on off‐axis integrated cavity output spectroscopy using a near‐infrared distributed feedback diode laser
Authors: Tian Xing , Cheng Gang , Cao Yanan , Chen Jiajin , Liu Kun , Gao Xiaoming
Published: May 2021

An optical scheme for simultaneous detection of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and carbon dioxide (CO2) is demonstrated. A near infrared tunable diode laser operating at 1.578 μm including the absorption lines of H2S at 6336.62 cm−1 and CO2 at 6336.24 cm−1 was used as the light source for spectroscopic measurements of H2S and CO2. A high‐finesse cavity with a base length of 21 cm and a pair of high reflectivity mirrors with a reflectivity of 99.999% were employed based on off‐axis integrated cavity output spectroscopy. Allan variance analysis shows that the minimum detection limits of 150 ppbv for H2S in 170 s averaging time and 1.03 ppmv for CO2 in 209 s, respectively.
Ocean‐scale footprint of a highly mobile fishing fleet: Social‐ecological drivers of fleet behaviour and evidence of illegal fishing
Authors: Collins Claire , Nuno Ana , Benaragama Aloka , Broderick Annette , Wijesundara Isuru , Wijetunge Dilhara , Letessier Tom B.
Published: May 2021

Managing the footprint of highly mobile fishing fleets is increasingly important due to continuing declines in fish populations. However, social‐ecological drivers for fisher behaviour remain poorly understood for many fleets globally.

Using the Sri Lankan fleet as a case study, we explored the role of social, environmental and policy drivers of effort distribution and illegal fishing. We used semi‐structured interviews and participatory mapping with 95 fishers, combined with explanatory modelling (GLM) and multivariate statistics, including principal component analysis (PCA).

Our findings highlighted the broad footprint (~3,800,000 km2) of this fleet, with fishing effort expended in high seas (53.9%), domestic (40.9%) and, illegally, in foreign waters (5.2%). Twenty‐six per cent of fishers directly admitted to fishing illegally in foreign waters during interviews, whereas 62% of fishers indicated doing so during participatory mapping.

GLMs explained underlying decisions of where to fish (36% of the total deviance in effort distribution) as a function of social variables (14%), notably distance from landing sites (13%), and environmental variables (11%), notably sea surface temperature (10%).

Multivariate analysis revealed that individual fisher characteristics associated with illegal fishing, such as a level of reliance on sharks, vary across the fleet. The analysis of qualitative data suggested that the influence of interpersonal and community social networks and perceptions of higher catch value, particularly of sharks, may be important.

Our approach demonstrated the utility of mixed methods research, including the collection of qualitative data, for creating a detailed understanding of spatial behaviour, including decisions of whether to fish illegally.

Results highlighted the importance of adopting a social‐ecological lens to investigate drivers for human behaviour and non‐compliance with rules. We advocate for a nuanced approach to monitoring and managing of fleets, including investigating localised social drivers for illegal fishing and enhancing regional transparency in fleet monitoring.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Epoxy resin with excellent ultraviolet resistance and mechanical properties derived from renewable camphoric acid
Authors: Hu Jingyuan , Wang Chunhong , Dai Jinyue , Teng Na , Wang Shuaipeng , Zhang Liyue , Jiang Yaming , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: May 2021

Generally, high‐performance epoxy resins, which are derived from aromatic compounds have two major disadvantages of yellowing and brittleness, and thus it presently remains a challenge for the facile synthesis of epoxy resin with excellent ultraviolet resistance and superior strength and toughness. Herein, a novel bio‐based epoxy resin diglycidyl ester of camphoric acid (DGECA) was synthesized from the renewable camphoric acid via an efficient and scalable route. The chemical structure of DGECA was carefully characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and mass spectrometry before being cured with methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride (MHHPA). Compared with the cured diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA)/MHHPA, the cured DGECA/MHHPA system achieved 11.5%, 16.7%, and 109.4% increment in flexural strength (126 MPa vs. 113 MPa), modulus (2.8 GPa vs. 2.4 GPa), and impact strength (6.7 kJ/m2vs. 3.2 kJ/m2), respectively. Moreover, cured DGECA exhibited extremely lower ultraviolet absorption (0.038A) and better ultraviolet resistance than that of cured DGEBA. This work provides a new strategy to synthesize epoxy resin with excellent ultraviolet resistance and high toughness by using the unique structure of renewable feedstock.
Elucidating the biochemical basis of trans‐16:1 fatty acid change in leaves during cold acclimation in wheat
Authors: Li Qiang , Shen Wenyun , Mavraganis Ioannis , Wang Liping , Gao Peng , Gao Jie , Cram Dustin , Li Yifeng , Liu Ziying , Fowler David Brian , Pan Youlian , Zou Jitao
Published: May 2021

In plant cells, phosphatidylglycerol (PG) in the chloroplast has a characteristic trans‐∆3‐hexadecenoic acid (t16:1) at the sn‐2 position. The t16:1 content in wheat leaf tissues decreases during cold treatment, but the significance of this fatty acid compositional change and the underlying biochemical mechanism remains poorly understood. Using a large collection of wheat cultivars displaying a varying capacity of freezing tolerance, we show for the first time under field conditions that this low temperature induced t16:1 change is associated with winter hardiness. To explore the metabolic mechanism responsible for the reduction of t16:1, we performed detailed lipid analysis and comparative transcriptome study with four selected wheat lines under cold acclimation. Our results show that wheat leaf tissues experience a gradual decrease in chloroplast lipid pathway activity during cold acclimation and that the decline in chloroplast lipid synthesis manifests itself in the decrease of t16:1 in PG. Comparative RNA‐seq analyses with leaf tissues further reveal concerted transcriptome shifts indicating a rebalancing of chloroplast and cytosolic lipid synthesis during cold acclimation. Our study, thus, provides mechanistic understanding on chloroplast lipid adjustments as a “molecular ideotype” and the t16:1 change as a specific metabolite marker for screening freezing tolerance in wheat.
Silicon solar cells and modules with front contact paste containing copper‐based component
Authors: Gawlinska‐Necek Katarzyna , Socha Robert P. , Balawender Pawel , Stodolny Maciej K. , Van Aken Bas B. , Starowicz Zbigniew , Panek Piotr
Published: May 2021

In this article, we present the results of aging tests of silicon photovoltaic modules with a copper‐containing electrode deposited in one‐step screen printing method. For front metallization, a mixture of commercial silver paste with copper filler was used, where copper constituted 30% of total paste volume. The filler is based on copper particles about 1 μm of diameter covered with a protective coating layer based on nickel (CCu1) or nickel–silver (CCu2). For the first time, Si solar cells with screen‐printed front electrode containing massive copper with efficiency over 20% are reported. Aging tests included 2000 h of damp heat (DH) and 400 times of thermal cycling (TC) tests. TC results are very promising and provide slight deterioration of the electrical parameters of the modules with both CCu1 and CCu2. Greater decreases were found when performed DH tests, but it is worth pointing out that mainly fill factor (FF) and η have fallen while Voc and Isc did not change by more than 5% for both pastes. After 2000 h of the test, FF decreased by 28% for CCu1 and 37.4% for CCu2, whereas the efficiency deteriorated by 32% and 42.6% for CCu1 and CCu2. The electroluminescence (EL) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements suggest that decrease in electrical parameters is a consequence of Cu corrosion caused by harmful products of the decomposed EVA laminating film.
The role of psychological and academic variables in predicting transition from primary to secondary education exam achievement in Turkey
Authors: Ersöz Çakir Olcay , Işmen Gazioğlu Ayşe Esra
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study was to understand the role of academic (achievement goal orientation, academic self‐efficacy) and psychological (resilience, test anxiety) variables in predicting transition from primary to secondary education (TEOG) test achievement. Participants were eighth grade students (N = 334) in Istanbul. The data was gathered via 2 × 2 achievement goal questionnaire‐revised, academic self‐efficacy scale, resilience scale for early adolescents, state‐trait anxiety inventory and information form. Results showed that the mastery‐approach, performance‐approach, performance‐avoidance, academic self‐efficacy, psychological resilience, and trait anxiety were significant predictors of TEOG scores of the students. This study showed that the success of the national‐level transition to high school exam in Turkey was strongly associated with academic variables, and also weakly associated with psychological variables.
Is social function a good proxy measure of personality disorder?
Authors: Tyrer Peter , Yang Min , Tyrer Helen , Crawford Mike
Published: May 2021

Background

Personality assessment may be helped by proxy measures.

Aims

To examine the assessment of social functioning in relationship to personality disorder.

Method

Secondary analysis of data from three clinical studies, following deliberate self‐harm (n = 460), cognitive behaviour therapy for health anxiety (n = 444) and a 30‐year follow‐up of 200 anxious/depressed patients. Social function and personality were assessed using the Social Functioning Questionnaire (SFQ) and the Personality Assessment Schedule, with its ICD‐11 modification. A 5‐item short version of the SFQ, the Short Social Functioning Questionnaire (SSFQ), was also developed.

The SFQ score in the first two studies (area under curve [AUC] 0.64 and 0.65) partly predicted personality status; in the third study, this achieved close agreement (AUC SFQ 0.85 [95% CI 0.8–0.9]; AUC SSFQ 0.84 [95% CI 0.78–0.89]). In all studies, social function deteriorated linearly with increasing personality pathology. Cut‐off points of 4 on the SSFQ and 7 on the SFQ had high sensitivity (SSFQ 82%–90%; SFQ 82%–83%) and acceptable specificity (SSFQ 66%–75%; SFQ 69%–75%) in identifying personality disorder in the third study.

Conclusions

Social functioning recorded in either a 5‐item or 8‐item self‐rating is a useful proxy measure of personality disturbance and may be the core of disorder.
Synthesis of 3D Porous Network Nanostructure of Nitrated Bacterial Cellulose Gel with Eminent Heat‐Release, Thermal Decomposition Behaviour and Mechanism
Authors: Chen Ling , Cao Xinfu , Gao Jianbing , Wang Yingbo , Zhang Yang , Liu Jie , He Weidong
Published: May 2021

In this study, a novel three‐dimensional (3D) porous cross‐link network structure of nitrated bacterial cellulose (NBC) nano‐gel, as an energetic gel matrix for fabrication of nanocomposite energetic materials, (nEMs) was synthesized by sol‐gel synthetic and the freeze‐drying technology. The analysis results revealed that the unique network structure with abundant of nano‐porous, which made the thermal behaviour of the NBC gel different from that of raw NBC. The thermal decomposition kinetic and mechanism of the NBC gel indicated that the exothermic peak temperature of the gel matrix decreased at low concentration, and the activation energy (Ea) of the gel0.5 (150000 J ⋅ mol−1) was much lower than that of raw NBC (223510 J ⋅ mol−1). However, the decomposition kinetic parameters of this study were not enough to illustrate the thermal properties, and which needs more effort to study them and complete. Furthermore, the initial reaction of gel decomposition was the splitting of urethane bond, and then the scission of −O−NO2 bonds happened, and the macromolecular chains’ breakage site of gel first occurred at −C−O−C− in the ring. After then, the chains of NBC break at −C−O−C− between the rings; notably, the heat‐release of gel was several times than that of raw NBC, which was liberated during the process of thermal decomposition. This promising research may provide potential application in preparing binder‐based nEMs and the basic theory of thermo‐analysis used in propellants and explosives.
Conformation of myelin basic protein bound to phosphatidylinositol membrane characterized by vacuum‐ultraviolet circular‐dichroism spectroscopy and molecular‐dynamics simulations
Authors: Kumashiro Munehiro , Izumi Yudai , Matsuo Koichi
Published: May 2021

The 18.5‐kDa isoform of myelin basic protein (MBP) interacts with the membrane surface of the myelin sheath to construct its compact multilamellar structure. This study characterized the conformation of MBP in the membrane by measuring the vacuum‐ultraviolet circular‐dichroism (VUVCD) spectra of MBP in the bilayer liposome comprising the following essential lipid constituents of the myelin sheath: phosphatidylinositol (PI), phosphatidylinositol‐4‐phosphate (PIP), and phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate (PIP2). The spectra of MBP exhibited the characteristic peaks of the helix structure in the presence of PI liposome, and the intensity increased markedly in the presence of PIP and PIP2 liposomes to show an isodichroic point. This suggests that the amount of the membrane‐bound conformation of MBP enhanced due to the increased number of negative net charges on the liposome surfaces. Secondary‐structure analysis revealed that MBP in the membrane comprised approximately 40% helix contents and eight helix segments. Molecular‐dynamics (MD) simulations of the eight segments were conducted for 250 ns in the presence of PI membrane, which predicted two amphiphilic and three nonamphiphilic helices as the membrane‐interaction sites. Further analysis of the distances of the amino‐acid residues in each segment from the phosphate group suggested that the nonamphiphilic helices interact with the membrane surface electrostatically, while the amphiphilic ones invade the inside of the membrane to produce electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. These results show that MBP can interact with the PI membrane via amphiphilic and nonamphiphilic helices under the control of a delicate balance between electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions.
Opening Texts for Discussion: Developing Dialogic Reading Stances
Authors: Barak Matan , Lefstein Adam
Published: May 2021

Dialogic pedagogy, in which students and teachers voice thoughts, co‐construct meanings, and generate multiple interpretations of texts, can promote literacy skills and reasoning. Yet, such teaching is challenging and requires, among other changes, adopting dialogic stances. In the language arts, expressive and critical reading stances have been shown to encourage and support dialogic discussions. How can teachers develop such dialogic reading stances? In this study, we investigated the processes through which teachers negotiated reading stances in a professional development program. Specifically, we studied teachers’ participation in rereading discussions designed to open texts to multiple interpretations as preparation for leading productive dialogue in language arts lessons. We used systematic observation and microethnographic methods to analyze nine rereading discussions among 17 teachers, coaches, and researchers. Five reading stances emerged in the discussions: expressive, critical, instrumental, moralistic, and historical. Focusing on three case studies, we investigated the interactional conditions under which dialogic stances did and did not emerge and the opportunities and limitations of different reading stances for opening texts to dialogue. Our analysis shows that dialogic stances gained legitimacy during discussions in which leadership and facilitation supported gradual elaborations of the text. In contrast to our initial assumptions, we found that expressive and critical stances sometimes narrow interpretive possibilities, whereas instrumental and moralistic stances can be generative of dialogue during rereading discussions. We show the potential of cultivating dialogic stances for the promotion of dialogic pedagogy in the language arts and discuss the advantages and limitations of rereading discussions as professional development.
A Novel Calix[4]arene Thiourea Decorated with 2‐(2‐Aminophenyl)benzothiazole Moiety as Highly Selective Chemical Gas Sensor for Dichloromethane Vapor
Authors: Durmaz Mustafa , Acikbas Yaser , Bozkurt Selahattin , Capan Rifat , Erdogan Matem , Ozkaya Cansu
Published: May 2021

A newly synthesized calix[4]arene thiourea derivative decorated with 2‐(2‐aminophenyl)benzothiazole unit is selected to take part important role in host‐guest interactions of the macrocyclic molecules. p‐tert‐butylcalix[4]arene dithiourea (C[4]‐DT) Langmuir‐Blodgett (LB) thin films are prepared and characterized to develop a new sensing element for the detection of seven different organic vapors (dichloromethane, chloroform, acetone, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, toluene and m‐xylene). The preparation of C[4]‐DT‐based thin films onto the different substrates was successfully and uniformly achieved with linear regressions of 0.9971 and 0.9954 for coating onto quartz glass and quartz crystal, respectively. The frequency shift (61.01 Hz) and the mass deposited onto quartz crystal (969.80 ng) were calculated for each layer. The swelling dynamics of C[4]‐DT QCM chemical sensor was also illuminated by developing the early time Fick's diffusion equation. The sensing measurements can be concluded that owing to its high sensitivity (6.63 Hz/ppm), fast response and low detection limit (0.45 ppm), this proposed C[4]‐DT LB coated sensor is expected to be promising alternative chemical sensor for detection of DCM vapor.
Synthesis, Spectral Characterization and Crystal Structures of Five Organic Ammonium Tetrasulfidomolybdates
Authors: Srinivasan Bikshandarkoil R. , Dhuri Sunder N. , Naik Ashish R. , Näther Christian , Bensch Wolfgang
Published: May 2021

The syntheses, spectral characterization and crystal structures of five organic ammonium tetrasulfidomolybdates namely (C4H12N)2[MoS4] 1 (C4H12N is 2‐methyl‐propan‐2‐aminium), (C5H16N2)[MoS4] 2 (C5H16N2 is N1,N1‐dimethylpropane‐1,3‐diaminium) (C5H16N2)[MoS4] 3 (C5H16N2 is N1,N3‐dimethylpropane‐1,3‐diaminium) (C6H20N4)[MoS4] 4 (C6H20N4 is 2‐amino‐N‐{2‐[(2‐ammonioethyl)amino]ethyl}ethanaminium and (C5H14N2)[MoS4] ⋅ 
H2O 5 (C5H14N2 is 1‐methylpiperazine‐1,4‐diium) are reported. The charge balancing cations in 1–3 are protonated methyl substituted propanamines, while the dications of 4 and 5 are derived from a tetraamine and a cyclic diamine respectively. The crystal structures of 1 to 5 consist of an unique tetrahedral [MoS4]2− dianion charge balanced by a crystallographically independent organic dication for all compounds excepting 1 which contains a pair of unique (2‐methylpropan‐2‐aminium) monocations. Although all the compounds are crystallized from aqueous solutions, 1 to 4 are anhydrous while 5 is a hemihydrate. In the crystal structures, the organic cations and the tetrasulfidomolybdate dianions are interlinked with the aid of several N−H⋅⋅⋅S and C−H⋅⋅⋅S hydrogen bonding interactions. In addition to N−H⋅⋅⋅S and C−H⋅⋅⋅S hydrogen bonds, compound 5 exhibits N−H⋅⋅⋅O and O−H⋅⋅⋅O hydrogen bonding interactions involving the H2O molecule, which interlinks pairs of anions with pairs of cations. Hirshfeld surface analyses were performed which reveal distortion of the [MoS4]2− tetrahedra, extensive S⋅⋅⋅H interactions between the anions and cations and also H⋅⋅⋅H contacts between the cations. A comparative study of the structural chemistry of thirty‐eight tetrasulfidomolybdates is described.
Assembly of Highly Functionalized Allylic Sulfones via a Stereoselective Pd‐Catalyzed Sequential C−C/C−S Cleavage and C−S Formation Process
Authors: Zhang Ning , Miao Lingling , Yang Yu , Duan Guohang , Shi Linlin , Hao Xin‐Qi , Song Mao‐Ping , Xu Yan , Zhu Xinju
Published: May 2021

A Pd‐catalyzed sequential C−C/C−S cleavage and C−S formation approach for highly functionalized allylic sulfones synthesis of vinylcyclopropanes with p‐tosylmethyl isocyanide has been developed under mild conditions. Importantly, the reaction of modular VCPs and TosMIC would give access to (E)‐allylic sulfones in a stereoselective and regioselective fashion onto the in situ formed Pd intermediate. The current protocol featured broad substrate scope, operational convenience, and gram‐scale production.
Ligand Structure and Topology Effects in Complexation Selectivity of Am3+ and Eu3+ with ′O′, ′N′ and ′S′ Heterocyclic Diamides: A DFT Study
Authors: Bhattacharyya Arunasis , Mohapatra Prasanta K.
Published: May 2021

The separation of lanthanides from trivalent actinides is a challenging topic at the back end of nuclear fuel cycle. Soft donor ligands have been proposed for the effective separation of lanthanide from trivalent actinides. However, many soft donor ligands are not found very effective while some others have shown great promise. In this connection, donor atom softness ligand stereochemistry, donor atom size, rigidity of rings, etc. have been quite important in deciding the selectivity. The present work deals with the density functional theoretical calculations on the complexation of Am3+ and Eu3+ with a series of tridentate diamide derivatives having the central coordinating atom as ‘O’, ‘N’ and ‘S’ with varying structural rigidity. The results indicated shorter ‘M−N’ and ‘M−S’ bond distances in the Am3+ complexes as compared to those in the respective Eu3+ complexes of the ligands where the structural rigidity is minimum. However, overall the selectivity is the combined effect of the interaction of two lateral amidic oxygen atoms and the central donor atom, which is significantly affected depending upon the structure of the ligands with same donor centres. Gibb's free energy values were calculated for the complexation with all the ligands which was used to predict the selectivity. One of the ligand having ‘S’ as the central donor atom found to be most selective for Am3+ over Eu3+.
Energy‐based time equivalent approach for evaluating the fire resistance of timber components exposed to realistic design fire curves
Authors: Zhang Yongwang , Wang Lu , Chen Li
Published: May 2021

According to the concept of performance‐based design, the fire safety design of the timber structures should be focused on the actual design fire, which represents the realistic fire situation in a given building. However, the current prescriptive only provides a method for evaluating the fire resistance of timber components under standard fire. This paper proposed an energy‐based time equivalent approach (EBTEA) for evaluating the fire resistance of the timber components in realistic design fire scenarios. As an alternative, this method was based on the principle of energy equivalence so that the fire resistance design of timber components exposed to realistic fires was standardized, which can make fire resistance rating database available under standard fire exposure and promote performance‐based design. The validity of the method was verified by comparing the predicted values of EBTEA with the existing values obtained from the nonlinear finite element analysis. The proposed method was further simplified by analyzing the key factors of energy equivalence and using nonlinear fitting methods to facilitate the use of designers. The simplified EBTEA can predict equivalent fire resistance of timber components under realistic design fire scenarios.
Upgrade your SIS to improve workflow, customer service
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: May 2021

Analytics, a cloud‐based system, and audit trails. These were just a few items on the wish list when the registrar's team at Stevens Institute of Technology started their journey to select and implement a new student information system.
Dual credit enrollment: Let's get it right! Part 2
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: May 2021

In an April 9, 2021 Inside Higher Education article, John Fink and Davis Jenkins reported that 82% of public high schools offered dual enrollment to 1.5 million students. On the higher education end, a 2016 American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers survey reported that 78% of the 388 colleges responding participated in dual enrollment options with high schools. Fink and Jenkins also reported that 25% of all new students to public four‐year institutions had dual enrollment credits when they entered.
Connections lead to office, career success
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: May 2021

When Steve Shablin graduated from college with a degree in theology and philosophy, he wasn't sure what career he wanted to pursue. The president of his college suggested he apply for a registrar position at the institution that had opened up. More than 35 years later, Shablin, now University Registrar at Michigan State University, is still passionate about working in higher education, where he has mostly served in the Registrar's Office. With a new initiative always launching and a community of scholars to connect with, he said he's never been bored. “It doesn't feel like work,” he added.
Secondary prevention of congenital cytomegalovirus infection with valacyclovir following maternal primary infection in early pregnancy
Authors: Faure‐Bardon V. , Fourgeaud J. , Stirnemann J. , Leruez‐Ville M. , Ville Y.
Published: May 2021

Objective

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) maternal primary infection (MPI) in early pregnancy is the main risk factor for congenital CMV (cCMV) infection with long‐term sequelae. Our aim was to evaluate, in a single center offering CMV serology screening at 11–14 gestational weeks, secondary prevention of cCMV by administration of high‐dosage maternal oral valacyclovir (VACV) in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Methods

This was a case–control study in a longitudinal cohort of pregnancies with CMV‐MPI diagnosed prior to 14 weeks of gestation by serology screening (immunoglobulin (Ig) M and IgG measurement and IgG avidity) between 2009 and 2020. From October 2019 onwards, all women presenting at our center with MPI before 14 weeks' gestation were offered treatment with high‐dosage oral VACV (8 g/day, 4 g twice/day). We used propensity score matching to compare fetal infection rates in cases treated with maternal oral VACV (8 g/day) with those in untreated controls. Fetal infection was assessed following amniocentesis at 17–22 weeks of gestation, by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of amniotic fluid for viral DNA.

Results

Of 310 cases of CMV‐MPI identified, 269 underwent amniocentesis for PCR. Of these, 66 were offered, and 65 accepted, treatment with VACV. From the remaining untreated cases, we selected 65 controls, matched for proportion of periconceptional infections and gestational age at amniocentesis. VACV was initiated at a median gestational age of 12.71 (interquartile range (IQR), 10.00–13.86) weeks and the median duration of treatment was 35 (IQR, 26–54) days. On multivariate logistic regression, fetal infection was lower in the treated group (odds ratio, 0.318 (95% CI, 0.120–0.841); P = 0.021). One treated patient developed acute renal failure 4 weeks after initiation of VACV therapy, but this resolved within 5 days after treatment was stopped.

Conclusion

This study confirms the acceptability, tolerance and benefit of secondary prevention by VACV of cCMV infection in a clinical setting with a well‐established routine maternal serum screening policy in the first trimester of pregnancy. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Co‐creating knowledge, policy, and practice: A call to advance Water Policy Lab process
Authors: Ojha Hemant , Maheshwari Basant , Bhattarai Basundhara
Published: May 2021

Numerous scientific reports have established that the water future of humanity and the entire earth system is at risk. Solving contested water problems require new ways of harnessing dialogues, reflections, empathy, research, and visions. Too often, water policies and practices tend to take shortcuts, missing out on the benefits these powerful social learning processes can bring towards water justice and sustainability. This editorial presents a Water Policy Lab approach to initiate dialogue among those who are concerned with this dual crisis—of escalating water insecurity and knowledge not being linked well to water policy and practice.