bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scoring Points with Purpose: The Interplay of Passion at Work and Corporate Social Responsibility in Sports Organizations
Authors: Anagnostopoulos Christos
Published: February 2025

This article explores the dynamic relationship between passion at work and corporate social responsibility (CSR) within sports organizations, highlighting how CSR initiatives can actively nurture and enhance employees’ passion for their careers in this sector. Drawing on 15 years of research in this area, I reference two relevant theoretical approaches that provide a solid foundation for my arguments. Through this discussion, I advocate for a strategic alignment of employee passion and CSR, illustrating how such integration can positively influence both organizational culture and community engagement. Ultimately, this article calls for a deeper understanding of how passionate employees, empowered by meaningful CSR initiatives, can drive transformative change within the sporting landscape.
PRMT1-Mediated Metabolic Reprogramming Promotes Leukemogenesis
Authors: Su Hairui , Sun Yong , Guo Han , Sun Chiao-Wang , Chen Qiuying , Liu Szumam , Li Anlun , Gao Min , Zhao Rui , Raffel Glen , Jin Jian , Qu Cheng-qui , Yu Michael , Klug Christopher A , Zheng George Y , Ballinger Scott , Kutny Matthew , Zheng XLong , Chong Zechen , Senevirathne Chamara , Gross Steve , Chen Yabing , Luo Minkui , Zhao Xinyang
Published: February 2025

Copious expression of protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) is associated with poor survival in many types of cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia. We observed that a specific acute megakaryocytic leukemia (AMKL) cell line (6133) derived from RBM15-MKL1 knock-in mice exhibited heterogeneity in Prmt1 expression levels. Interestingly, only a subpopulation of 6133 cells expressing high levels of Prmt1 caused leukemia when transplanted into congenic mice. The PRMT1 inhibitor, MS023, effectively cured this PRMT1-driven leukemia. Seahorse analysis revealed that PRMT1 increased the extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) and decreased the oxygen consumption rate (OCR). Consistently, PRMT1 accelerated glucose consumption and led to the accumulation of lactic acid in the leukemia cells. The metabolomic analysis supported that PRMT1 stimulated the intracellular accumulation of lipids, which was further validated by FACS analysis with BODIPY 493/503. In line with fatty acid accumulation, PRMT1 downregulated the protein level of CPT1A, which is involved in the rate-limiting step of fatty acid oxidation. Furthermore, administering the glucose analogue 2-deoxy-glucose (2-DG) delayed AMKL progression and promoted cell differentiation. Ectopic expression of Cpt1a rescued the proliferation of 6133 cells ectopically expressing PRMT1 in the glucose-minus medium. In conclusion, PRMT1 upregulates glycolysis and downregulates fatty acid oxidation to enhance the proliferation capability of AMKL cells.
Family Support and Its Relationship with the Level of Psychological Immunity among a Sample of High School Students at Erbil Schools
Authors: Hasan Shahzad Ramadan , Abdulkarim Shilan Abdulrahman , Saad Kholoud
Published: February 2025

The current research aims to identify the level of family support and the level of psychological immunity for a sample of high school students at Erbil schools. It also aims to discern the relationship between family support and psychological immunity. In addition, it studies the significance of the differences among the research sample individuals on the family support scale and the psychological support scale according to the two research variables: (gender and academic specialization). The analytical descriptive approach is adopted. Thus, two research tools are utilized: (the family support scale and the psychological immunity scale). The research sample includes (710) male and female high school students studying at Erbil schools. The main results of the research assert a direct relationship between family support and the level of psychological immunity among the sample of the present study. Also, there are no statistical significance differences among the average scores of the research sample's responses regarding the family support scale and the psychological immunity scale according to the two variables (gender and academic specialization).
Determinants of Patient Satisfaction in Somali Public Hospitals: A Narrative Review
Authors: Karie Omar Hussein , Eid Mohamud Abdi , Mohamed Bashir Abdi
Published: February 2025

Patient satisfaction is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality and plays a significant role in evaluating the effectiveness of public hospitals. The main purpose of the study was to investigate the factors that affect patients’ satisfaction in public hospitals in Somalia. Physical facilities, doctor-patient interaction, pharmacy services and Laboratory services are the factors that affect patients’ satisfaction with healthcare services in public hospitals in Somalia and these factors were investigated as specific objectives of the study. The study used Google Scholar search engine to review the literature related to the factors that affect patients’ satisfaction with healthcare services in public hospitals in Somalia. The study found in the literature review in Somalia that Physical facilities, doctor-patient interaction, pharmacy services and Laboratory services are weak in Somalia. The study concluded the level of medical care provided, including accuracy of diagnosis, effectiveness of treatment, overall competence of healthcare professionals, physical facilities, doctor-patient interaction, pharmacy services and quick Laboratory services can significantly impact patients' satisfaction in public hospitals. The study recommended that special consideration should be given to Physical facilities, doctor-patient interaction, pharmacy services and Laboratory examination result.
The molten globular intermediate form in the folding pathway of human carbonic anhydrase B
Authors: Jagannadham M.V. , Balasubramanian D.
Published: July 2002

The acid‐induced and guanidinium chloride‐induced conformational transitions in human carbonic anhydrase B have been. analyzed. A structural form was detected at pH 3, which has a higher secondary structural order than the native enzyme but little tertiary structure. The enzyme dissolved in an intermediate concentration of the denaturant guanidinium chloride (1 M at pH 7.5) also adopts a similar conformational state. This form, denoted as the intermediate form I, possesses most of the characteristics defined for the molten globular state of globular proteins and might serve as the embryonic structural intermediate during the self‐organization of the protein into its functional native form.
The cosubstrate NADP(H) protects lysine 601 in the porcine NADPH‐cytochrome P‐450 reductase against pyridoxylation
Authors: Müller Karin , Linder Dietmar , Lumper Ludwig
Published: July 2002

Lys601 in NADPH‐cytochrome P‐450 reductase is modified by reductive alkylation with pyridoxal 5'‐phosphate (pyridoxylation). Lys601 is protected against modification by the cosubstrate NADP(H).
Caldecrin proform requires trypsin activation for the acquisition of serum calcium‐decreasing activity
Authors: Tomomura Akito , Fukushige Tomoko , Tomomura Mineko , Noikura Takenori , Nishii Yasuho , Saheki Takeyori
Published: July 2002

Proform serum calcium‐decreasing factor (procaldecrin) was purified from porcine pancreas acetone powder. Procaldecrin showed chymotrypsin activity after trypsin treatment in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. Procaldecrin did not possess serum calcium‐decreasing activity but acquired serum calcium‐decreasing activity as well as protease activity after trypsin treatment. However, PMSP treatment after activation of procaldecrin by trypsin did not affect the serum calcium‐decreasing activity, even though protease activity was nullified by treatment with PMSF. These findings suggest that the serum calcium‐decreasing activity acquired by procaldecrin requires confonnational change caused by trypsin treatment.
Enhancement of the anti‐herpetic effect of trichosanthin by acyclovir and interferon
Authors: Zheng Y.T. , Chan W.L. , Chan P. , Huang H. , Tam S.C.
Published: July 2002

Trichosanthin (TCS) is a type I ribosome‐inactivating protein that has a wide range of pharmacological activities. The present study investigated the effectiveness of TCS on herpes simplex virus (HSV‐1). The anti‐viral activity and toxicity of TCS on Vero cells were measured. Results showed that the ED50, TD50 and the therapeutic indices were 38.5, 416.5 and 10.9 μg/ml, respectively. Anti‐viral activity of TCS was substantially potentiated when it was used in conjunction with other anti‐viral agents. The ED50 of TCS was reduced 125‐fold by acyclovir at a concentration of 0.001 μg/ml, which was practically devoid of significant anti‐viral activity. Similarly, the ED50 of TCS was reduced 100‐fold by interferon‐α2a at a concentration of 100 IU/ml. In conclusion, TCS is effective against HSV‐1 and other anti‐viral agents such as acyclovir or interferon can potentiate its action substantially.
Hematopoietic lineage cell specific protein 1 associates with and down‐regulates protein kinase CK2
Authors: Ruzzene Maria , Brunati Anna Maria , Sarno Stefania , Donella-Deana Arianna , Pinna Lorenzo A
Published: July 2002

The catalytic (α) subunit of protein kinase CK2 and the hematopoietic specific protein 1 (HS1) display opposite effects on Ha‐ras induced fibroblast transformation, by enhancing and counteracting it, respectively. Here we show the occurrence of physical association between HS1 and CK2α as judged from both far Western blot and plasmon resonance (BIAcore) analysis. Association of HS1 with CK2α is drastically reduced by the deletion of the HS1 C‐terminal region (403–486) containing an SH3 domain. HS1, but not its deletion mutant HS1 Δ324–393, lacking a sequence similar to an acidic stretch of the regulatory β‐subunit of CK2, inhibits calmodulin phosphorylation by CK2α. These data indicate that HS1 physically interacts with CK2α and down‐regulates its activity by a mechanism similar to the β‐subunit.
G1 versus G2 cell cycle arrest after adriamycin‐induced damage in mouse Swiss3T3 cells
Authors: Siu Wai Yi , Yam Cain H , Poon Randy Y.C
Published: July 2002

Cell cycle arrest after different types of DNA damage can occur in either G1 phase or G2 phase of the cell cycle, involving the distinct mechanisms of p53/p21Cip1/Waf1 induction, and phosphorylation of Cdc2, respectively. Treatment of asynchronously growing Swiss3T3 cells with the chemotherapeutic drug adriamycin induced a predominantly G2 cell cycle arrest. Here we investigate why Swiss3T3 cells were arrested in G2 phase and not in G1 phase after adriamycin‐induced damage. We show that adriamycin was capable of inducing a G1 cell cycle arrest, both during the G0‐G1 transition and during the G1 phase of the normal cell cycle. In G0 cells, adriamycin induced a prolonged cell cycle arrest. However, adriamycin caused only a transient cell cycle delay when added to cells at later time points during G0‐G1 transition or at the G1 phase of normal cell cycle. The G1 arrest correlated with the induction of p53 and p21Cip1/Waf1, and the exit from the arrest correlated with the decline of their expression. In contrast to the G1 arrest, adriamycin‐induced G2 arrest was relatively tight and correlated with the Thr‐14/Tyr‐15 phosphorylation of cyclin B‐Cdc2 complexes. The relative stringency of the G1 versus G2 cell cycle arrest may explain the predominance of G2 arrest after adriamycin treatment in mammalian cells.
Mammographic and ultrasonographic study of changes in the breast related to HRT
Authors: Özdemir A. , Konuş Ö. , Nas T. , Erbaş G. , Coşar S. , Işık S.
Published: July 2002

Objective: To determine the frequency and degree of change in mammographic densities, and new solid or cystic formations in the breast tissue, during different types of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Subjects and methods: This prospective study included 118 postmenopausal women, 88 under hormone replacement therapy and 30 control subjects. Four types of hormone therapies were compared for their effects on mammograms and sonograms obtained before and during therapy. Mean duration of follow‐up was 16.92±7.65 months in the treated and 21.56±11.49 months in the control group. Density changes on mammograms were evaluated subjectively. Results: Density increase was recorded in 34% of the patients receiving HRT and in none of the control subjects (P<0.01). Highest frequency of density increase was found in the groups treated with estrogen plus cyproterone acetate (46%) and with estrogen plus medroxyprogesterone acetate (43%). Frequencies of density increase in the tibolone users, and in estrogen alone users were 28% and 18%, respectively. Degree of density increase was evidently minimal in tibolone users, compared to others. New cysts occurred in six patients receiving HRT (6%) which was not statistically different from the control group (16%) (P>0.05). New cyst formation was not related to the degree of density increase. New solid mass formation was not observed. Conclusion: Our findings show that mammographic density changes related to HRT are dependent on the selected hormone regimen. Formations of breast cysts or solid lesions do not seem to be related to HRT.
A typology of project‐level technology transfer processes
Authors: Stock Gregory N , Tatikonda Mohan V
Published: July 2002

This paper develops a conceptual typology of inward technology transfer (ITT), which explicitly considers technology transfer at the project, rather than the firm, level of analysis. Building on extant technology management literature and the organizational theories of information processing and interdependence, we carefully characterize the three dimensions of the typology: the technology uncertainty of the technology that is transferred, the organizational interaction between the technology source and recipient, and transfer effectiveness. Appropriate matches of technology uncertainty and organizational interaction result in four archetypal cases called “transfer process types”, which represent the most effective approaches to technology transfer. Real‐life examples of effective and ineffective matches are presented, and implications of the typology for future research and practice are discussed.
Rating scale for the assessment of communication disorders in schizophrenics
Authors: Olivier V , Hardy-Baylé MC , Lancrenon S , Fermanian J , Sarfati Y , Passerieux C , Chevalier JF
Published: July 2002

Taking up the Bleulerian view of a clinical description based on a pathogenic model, we propose a rating scale for the assessment of communication disorders in schizophrenic patients. The scale consists of clinical items that could be the direct expression of the three hypotheses of cognitive dysfunction which have been postulated to explain communication dysfunction in these patients. We assessed the frequency of the 16 items in the scale in a total of 80 subjects (43 schizophrenic subjects, ten manic subjects, 17 depressive subjects and ten normal control subjects). The results of this study showed that this item schedule was specific to schizophrenic patients and, in particular, could statistically significantly discriminate schizophrenic patients from psychotic patients with affective disorder. The methodological qualities of the scale were explored and proved accurate, except for the reliability which is too low for some items and the item-to-total correlation which is too low for one item of the scale.
In vivo hippocampal 31P NMR metabolites in Alzheimer's disease and ageing
Authors: Mecheri G , Marie-Cardine M , Sappey-Marinier D , Bonmartin H , Albrand G , Ferry G , Coppard-Meyer N , Courpron P
Published: July 2002

Memory loss is the most common early symptom of Alzheimer's disease (AD). For this study, we chose the hippocampi as regions of interest. The hippocampus, which is closely associated with memory processing, is known to be vulnerable to damage in the early stage of AD. We considered both inter-group (patients vs controls) and intra-group (right vs left hippocampus) comparisons. We examined seven patients meeting the DSM-III-R criteria of senile dementia and the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke-Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association (NINCDS — ADRDA) criteria of probable AD, and II aged controls. This study focused on the measurement of phosphorus 31 (31P) Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy metabolites in each hippocampus. We found significant differences in phosphorus metabolites for both intra-group comparison (pH shifted towards relative alkalosis in the left hippocampus of patients) and inter-group consideration (reduced phosphodiesters [Pde]and elevated gamma adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the right hippocampus, higher inorganic phosphate (pHi) in the left hippocampus for patients as compared to controls). We suggest energy failure and membrane functional breakdown in patients compared to aged controls.
Are there differential effects of fluoxetine in retarded/blunted affect versus agitated/anxious depressives? A clinical study
Authors: Partiot A , Jouvent R , Pierson A , Baruch P , Beuzen JN , Ammar S , Widlöcher D
Published: July 2002

Background

Clinical selectivity of antidepressants with pharmacological specificity still remains under debate.

Method

In the open trial presented below, the effects of fluoxetine, a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI), were compared across two groups of depressive inpatients contrasted on their symptomatological expression (agitated/anxious versus retarded/blunted affect). Sixteen patients (8 in each groups) were included in the 4-weeks treatment period and submitted to a weekly-based evaluation. Global depression, retardation, emotional blunting, agitation, anxiety and mood profile were assessed.

Results

Significant improvements of the HDRS and MADRS scores were observed in both groups. Although no group x treatment interaction was found on the global scores of depression, a differential effect according to the group was observed on anxiety, agitation, irritability and emotional lability.

Discussion

These preliminary results support the hypothesis that the effect of fluoxetine on positive clinical dimensions could lead to a differential effect in patients with agitation/anxiety when compared with patients with retardation/blunted affect.
Panic patients in the non-panic state: physiological and cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Dratcu L , Bond A
Published: July 2002

Panic attacks and the antipanic effect of antidepressants are claimed to distinguish panic disorder (PD) from generalised anxiety disorder. However, most studies showing neurochemical disturbances in PD overlook the non-panic state. We compared panic patients in the non-panic state with controls on biochemical, psychological and physiological measures. There were no differences on the neuroendocrine tests. Self-ratings of bodily and psychological symptoms of anxiety were significantly higher in patients and they scored worse on word recall. Patients had significantly more skin conductance fluctuations and slow wave activity in the electroencephalogram, a sign of hyperventilation which may have implications for brain activity. Discrepancies between patients' self-ratings and objective measures of pulse rate and psychomotor performance indicated that panic patients have distorted perceptions of both physical and mental functioning. Hyperventilation and cognitive distortions in the non-panic state may facilitate panic attacks and are part of the pathophysiology of PD.
Social capital and democracy in Russia
Authors: Marsh Christopher
Published: July 2002

The two basic objectives of this study are to determine whether or not Russia has stocks of social capital upon which to draw as it seeks to democratize, and to examine the nature of the relationship between social capital and democracy in Russia. I present both qualitative and quantitative evidence that social capital exists in many parts of Russia. After a quantitative analysis of social capital and democratization, which identifies a strong positive relationship, I suggest that if the center is able to sustain democracy, Russia should be able to consolidate democratic rule.
Corruption and anti-corruption in reform China
Authors: He Zengke
Published: July 2002

During the transition period, the extent of corruption in China is higher than before. Meanwhile the forms and characters of Chinese corruption are also different in many important aspects from those of its past and of other countries. This paper explores the causes, consequences of corruption and anti-corruption campaigns of the Chinese government. The major conclusion of this paper is that further political reform toward democracy should be the direction of future anti-corruption efforts.
Politics and the Roma in state-socialist Eastern Europe
Authors: Barany Zoltan
Published: July 2002

This article is a comparative analysis of state-socialist policies towards the East European Gypsies (Roma). I make two related arguments. First, the Gypsy policies of East European states evolved differently and resulted in considerable variation. Second, notwithstanding the state-socialist social control policies, a measure of independent Romani activism did emerge laying the groundwork for post-socialist Gypsy mobilization.
Dismantling the Chinese mini-welfare state? Marketization and the politics of institutional transformation, 1979–1999
Authors: Gu Edward X.
Published: July 2002

This article presents a systematic examination of the workplace-based welfare system in urban China. During the pre-reform period from 1949 to 1978, most welfare provisions in China were delivered and the majority of welfare spending was spent by workplace units. Since China's market transition started in the late 1970s, this workplace-based welfare system is no longer financially sustainable, and more importantly its functioning constitutes an impediment to the formation of an institutional configuration for a market economy in China. The Chinese government has therefore experienced increasing pressure to reshape this workplacebased welfare system into a genuine welfare state, so as to shift the responsibilities of welfare provisions from individual work units to government bodies. Some institutional arrangements characteristic of welfare pluralism, which emphasize that the state, employers, and individuals share welfare responsibilities, are also incorporated into the newly emergent social welfare system in urban China.
Universal Design Rules for Flory–Huggins Polymer Photonic Vapor Sensors
Authors: Megahd Heba , Lova Paola , Comoretto Davide
Published: December 2020

Multilayered photonic sensors that rely on polymer‐solvent Flory–Huggins interactions are drawing increasing interest owing to their broad‐band selectivity, even among mixtures, without the need for chemical targeting. Moreover, these sensors provide simple colorimetric responses, and easy, quick fabrication both on laboratory and industrial scales. However, complex optical responses and slow response times are limiting their development. In this work, the behavior of different photonic sensor architectures is analyzed to speed up response time and define a strategy to simplify their spectral behavior. To this end, the effect of interfaces, materials order, and thickness on the diffusion kinetics of a single reference analyte in the multilayered sensors is studied to design the optimal structure.
Single‐Layered Reflective Metasurface Achieving Simultaneous Spin‐Selective Perfect Absorption and Efficient Wavefront Manipulation
Authors: Huang Yijia , Xiao Tianxiao , Xie Zhengwei , Zheng Jie , Su Yarong , Chen Weidong , Liu Ke , Tang Mingjun , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter , Li Ling
Published: December 2020

As the 2D counterpart of metamaterials, metasurfaces have drawn wide attentions in recent years due to their unique electromagnetic (EM) properties and subwavelength footprints. Although great efforts have been made in metasurface‐based full vectorial manipulation of EM waves, the realization of multifunctional devices with high compactness is still challenging. Here, by employing the mutual coupling between the meta‐atoms to induce spin‐selective magnetic resonance, a generalized design principle based on single‐layered metasurface is proposed that can achieve giant chiral absorption with average circular dichroism larger than 80%. In addition, arbitrary wavefront manipulation for reflected waves can also be realized with operation efficiency larger than 88%. As a proof of concept, three kinds of chiral devices including beam deflector, vortex beam generator, and meta‐hologram are numerically investigated in infrared region with high performance. It is believed that these multifunctional devices with simple geometry have great potentials in the field of chiral imaging, chiroptical spectroscopy, and EM communication.
Sn2B5O9Br as an Outstanding Bifunctional Material with Strong Second‐Harmonic Generation Effect and Large Birefringence
Authors: Guo Jingyu , Cheng Shichao , Han Shujuan , Yang Zhihua , Pan Shilie
Published: December 2020

The first tin (II) borate bromide, Sn2B5O9Br (SBOB), as an outstanding bifunctional material with excellent linear and nonlinear optical (NLO) performance is synthesized successfully. As far as it is known, it exhibits the largest birefringence among the reported borates (0.439 at 546 nm), even over famous birefringent materials YVO4 and TiO2. Meanwhile, it also owns a strong second harmonic generation (SHG) response of 2.4 times that of KH2PO4. Theoretical calculations display that its incredible optical properties mainly originate from the extremely intensive stereochemical activity lone pair (SCALP) of [SnO7Br2] polyhedra, which results in the enhancement of birefringence and SHG response, increasing to 2.6‐ and 4.8‐fold, respectively, from Sn2B5O9Cl (SBOC) to SBOB. These perceptions will guide and accelerate the exploration of excellent birefringence and NLO materials in tin (II)‐based compound.
Modeling Heterogeneity of Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer Uncovers a Novel Combinatorial Treatment Overcoming Primary Drug Resistance
Authors: Lamballe Fabienne , Ahmad Fahmida , Vinik Yaron , Castellanet Olivier , Daian Fabrice , Müller Anna‐Katharina , Köhler Ulrike A. , Bailly Anne‐Laure , Josselin Emmanuelle , Castellano Rémy , Cayrou Christelle , Charafe‐Jauffret Emmanuelle , Mills Gordon B. , Géli Vincent , Borg Jean‐Paul , Lev Sima , Maina Flavio
Published: December 2020

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive breast cancer subtype characterized by a remarkable molecular heterogeneity. Currently, there are no effective druggable targets and advanced preclinical models of the human disease. Here, a unique mouse model (MMTV‐R26Met mice) of mammary tumors driven by a subtle increase in the expression of the wild‐type MET receptor is generated. MMTV‐R26Met mice develop spontaneous, exclusive TNBC tumors, recapitulating primary resistance to treatment of patients. Proteomic profiling of MMTV‐R26Met tumors and machine learning approach show that the model faithfully recapitulates intertumoral heterogeneity of human TNBC. Further signaling network analysis highlights potential druggable targets, of which cotargeting of WEE1 and BCL‐XL synergistically kills TNBC cells and efficiently induces tumor regression. Mechanistically, BCL‐XL inhibition exacerbates the dependency of TNBC cells on WEE1 function, leading to Histone H3 and phosphoS33RPA32 upregulation, RRM2 downregulation, cell cycle perturbation, mitotic catastrophe, and apoptosis. This study introduces a unique, powerful mouse model for studying TNBC formation and evolution, its heterogeneity, and for identifying efficient therapeutic targets.
Fluorescent Assembles of 2‐Amino‐3‐cyanothiophenes with Azoles. Design and Peculiar Properties of Absorption and Emission
Authors: Lugovik Kseniya I. , Kanaa Ali , Benassi Enrico , Belskaya Nataliya P.
Published: December 2020

Three new types of azolylthiophene fluorescent dyes, (1‐aryl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazole‐4‐carbonyl)thiophenes (ATTs), (3‐arylisoxazole‐4‐carbonyl)thiophenes (AITs), 1‐aryl‐1H‐pyrazole‐4‐carbonyl)thiophenes (APTs), were synthesized by the 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction. All the synthesized luminophores exhibited blue emission with high quantum yields (QYs) and positive solvato(fluoro)chromism. Photophysical investigations established the role of the heterocyclic core, substituents, and their combinations for the azolylthiophenes emission. ATTs and AITs exhibited a decrease in QY in polar solvents, while APTs showed the largest QYs in DMSO and DMF. Solvato(fluoro)chromism was analyzed by using the Lippert‐Mataga equation. These results revealed that ATTs are the most sensitive to the environment interactions among the investigated compounds. Azolylthiophenes exhibited intense green emission in the solid state (up to 75.9%). The experimental work was supported by quantum chemical calculations.
Evaluation of a place‐based collective impact initiative through cross‐sectoral data linkage
Authors: Homel Jacqueline , Homel Ross , McGee Tara Renae , Zardo Pauline , Branch Sara , Freiberg Kate , Manning Matthew , Wong Gabriel
Published: December 2020

Australian governments fund many place‐based collective impact initiatives like Communities for Children (CfC); states fund family support services to keep at‐risk children out of the child protection system; and schools implement many extracurricular programmes. Do these services have a beneficial, cost‐effective collective impact on child well‐being? This paper describes a proof‐of‐concept attempt to address this question by linking for one CfC community individual‐level data on 5‐ to 12‐year‐old participation in programmes delivered through these three sectors with child outcomes. This exercise was unsuccessful despite the investigators’ prior experience; advice from a data linkage expert and our data custodian partners; five ARC reviews; partners’ good will; and ethical safeguards including written, informed parent/carer consent. Obstacles encountered included a lack of data of sufficient quality on children and families’ participation in services, lack of data on children’s outcomes, and prohibitive costs of linkages within government. We offer for others three key lessons: (1) make assumptions explicit; (2) talk to technical experts in data custodian organisations early in the planning process; and (3) undertake, if possible, an initial scoping exercise. We conclude that despite recent legislative and policy reforms many obstacles we encountered will persist in the absence of a national child well‐being strategy.
A New Cell Configuration for a More Precise Electrochemical Evaluation of an Artificial Solid‐Electrolyte Interphase
Authors: Bobnar Jernej , Vizintin Alen , Kapun Gregor , Njel Christian , Dedryvère Rémi , Dominko Robert , Genorio Bostjan
Published: December 2020

The study of an artificial solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) can lead to a misinterpretation of the electrochemical results obtained with the classical cell configuration due to so‐called edge effect. A technical solution is presented here that minimizes the edge effect by using a new cell configuration with a polypropylene disc. A new cell configuration allows a simple electrochemical evaluation of an artificial SEI with a more precisely defined effective area and homogeneously distributed current density. The application of such a technical solution manifests itself through better defined deposition and stripping curves in relation to surface electrochemistry and can differ significantly from the results obtained with the classical cell configuration. Finally, a model system ‐ a lithium electrode protected with trimethylolpropane ethoxylate triacrylate polymer‐was used to evaluate and compare the new cell configuration with the classical two electrode cell configuration.
Using behavioral skills training with preservice teachers in the university classroom
Authors: Kirkpatrick Marie , Rehfeld David M. , Akers Jessica S. , Rivera Gabby , Sulak Tracey N.
Published: December 2020

Preservice and novice teachers often identify behavior management as an area of weakness that they attribute to a lack of sufficient instruction during their teacher preparation. Behavioral skills training (BST) is an evidence‐based teaching methodology based on the principles of applied behavior analysis used to teach new skills. This study investigated the use of BST in the university setting to teach undergraduate preservice teachers enrolled in a field‐based special education course to implement a token economy during small group instruction with children. A single‐case research design was used to assess the effectiveness of using BST by evaluating accuracy of implementation before and after BST. Results showed BST was an effective teaching procedure and social validity measures collected from the preservice teachers indicated BST was acceptable to all participants. Limitations and needs for future research are discussed.
Aberrant common hepatic artery from the left gastric artery and with no connection to the gastroduodenal artery: Risky vascular anomaly in gastrectomy
Authors: Noda Keisuke , Kobayashi Shinichiro , Yamashita Mampei , Hirayama Takanori , Natsuda Koji , Tokunaga Takayuki , Yamanouchi Kosho , Takeshita Hiroaki , Kuroki Tamotsu , Maeda Shigeto
Published: December 2020

Knowledge of anatomical variations of the celiac axis is important in upper abdominal surgery. Aberrant common hepatic artery originating from the left gastric artery without connecting the gastroduodenal artery is extremely rare. Preoperative vascular anatomy assessment using reconstructions of CT images may be useful for safe surgical procedure.
Boosting the Stability of RuO2 in the Acidic Oxygen Evolution Reaction by Tuning Oxygen‐Vacancy Formation Energies: A Viable Approach Beyond Noble‐Metal Catalysts?
Authors: Exner Kai S.
Published: December 2020

RuO2 belongs to the most active electrode materials for the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) within the electrochemical water splitting, such as those encountered in acidic proton‐exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers. Despite its large activity, RuO2 faces severe stability issues under the harsh anodic operation conditions. Now, a new strategy has been reported to overcome this bottleneck by tuning the free‐formation energy of oxygen vacancies, which can be achieved by the co‐doping of W and Er into the RuO2 lattice. The resulting W0.2Er0.1Ru0.7O2‐δ electrocatalyst is stable long term in acid and, additionally, reveals remarkable OER activity, about 30 times higher than that of commercial RuO2. The notion of tuning the oxygen‐vacancy formation energy could be a valuable starting point for the development of non‐noble electrocatalysts for the acidic OER with applications in PEM electrolyzers.
Preparation and characterization of manganese‐containing biochars and their lead ion adsorption mechanism
Authors: Du Xia , Zhao Mingjing
Published: December 2020

Heavy metal pollution causes severely adverse impacts on human and ecosystem health. Adsorption is one of the most effective technologies used in the removal of heavy metal ions from contaminated water. However, its widespread applications are limited, owing to its high cost and low adsorbent selectivity. In this study, modified manganese‐containing biochars were synthesized to improve their Pb2+ adsorption ability. Fraxinus mandshurica sawdust samples were impregnated with pure water as well as KMnO4 and MnSO4 aqueous solutions (FM‐BC, FM‐M7BC, and FM‐M2BC, respectively) for 24 hours at 25°C and pyrolyzed at 400°C. The resulting biochars were characterized using x‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive x‐ray analyses (EDX), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherms, and Boehm titration. Batch adsorption experiments revealed the kinetics and magnitude of Pb2+ adsorption onto the biochars. The Pb2+ adsorption capacity of FM‐M7BC (156.25 mg · g−1) was significantly higher than those of FM‐M2BC (25.35 mg · g−1) and FM‐BC (11.99 mg · g−1), and based on FTIR and Boehm titration results before and after Pb2+ adsorption, an adsorption mechanism was proposed. FM‐M7BC showed the highest adsorption enhancement owing to the strong affinity of MnCO3 particles and O‐containing groups for Pb2+. Additionally, the influence of the different oxidation states of manganese (Mn(VII), and Mn(II)) in the manganese components on the Pb2+ adsorption performance of the biochars was extremely strong. FM‐M7BC was an effective adsorbent for removing Pb2+.
Chemical composition and antibacterial activity of Berberis vulgaris (barberry) against bacteria associated with caries
Authors: Kazemipoor Maryam , Fadaei Tehrani Pooya , Zandi Hengameh , Golvardi Yazdi Reza
Published: December 2020

Objectives

The aim of this in‐vitro study was to determine the antimicrobial capacity of a Berberis vulgaris plant extract on the bacteria being associated with caries including, Streptococcus mutans, S. sobrinus, S. sanguinis, S. salivaris and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.

Material and methods

Chlorhexidine 2% (CHX) mouthwash and ampicillin (10 μg/disk) were applied as positive control groups. Inhibition zone, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) related to stem, leaf and fruit of B. vulgaris plant were recorded for every five bacteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS ver. 22, one‐way ANOVA repeated measure and post hoc Tukey statistical test. The significance level was set at p < 0.05.

Results

There were no significant differences between the antimicrobial capacity of the positive controls and the extract from the stem and fruit of B. vulgaris (p > 0.05). The MIC values of the extract from the stem were significantly lower against S. sobrinus (64 μg/ml) and L. rhamnosus (128 μg/ml). The MIC value of the extract against S. mutans was significantly lower in the fruit group (64 μg/mL). The MBC value of the extract against S. sobrinus and L. rhamnosus was significantly lower in the stem group (128 μg/ml). The MBC value against S. mutans was significantly lower in the fruit group (128 μg/ml).

Conclusions

The results showed that CHX and B. vulgaris plant extract have similar antimicrobial activity against bacteria being associated with caries. Therefore, B. vulgaris, which shows antibacterial capacity, could be considered for further investigation as a safe, phytotherapeutic mouthwash to prevent dental caries.
Physiological mechanisms underlying genetic improvement in sink establishment and plant‐to‐plant variability in maize
Authors: Gonzalez V. H. , MacKenzie J. O. , Tollenaar M. , Lee E. A.
Published: December 2020

Genetic improvement in maize (Zea mays L.) grain yield is associated with improvements in dry matter accumulation during the grain‐filling period and the ability to maintain partitioning to the grain (i.e., harvest index) when grown at higher plant population densities. Although several attributes have been identified that lead to improved dry matter accumulation during the grain‐filling period, the attributes that have enabled the maintenance of harvest index at higher plant population densities remain elusive. Using the Ontario ERA hybrids that represent five eras of genetic improvement in Ontario, we examined genetic improvement in several attributes associated with sink establishment and partitioning to the grain. We show that the number of florets on an ear initial is not influenced by plant density, nor is there any evidence of a genetic improvement in floret number. There has been genetic improvement, however, in the ability to support kernel set at a lower threshold level of dry matter accumulation and to more efficiently set kernels at lower dry matter accumulation levels, such as those experienced at higher plant densities. Genetic improvement is evident for reduced plant‐to‐plant variability for dry matter accumulation, grain yield, kernel number, and plant growth rate around silking, but most notably for grain yield. Finally, we show that genetic improvement in reduced plant‐to‐plant variability for grain yield is the result of the lower threshold dry matter levels required for seed set and the improved resource utilization, which has led to greater stability of individual plant performance in a stand.
Structural Characterization of Hydro‐, Chloro‐ and Fluoroorganylsilanes with Substituents of Varying Electron Withdrawing Character
Authors: Keßler Mira , Porath Sven , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Hoge Berthold
Published: December 2020

We report on the molecular structure of trimethylsilanes Si(CH3)3X in which the substituents X, namely (Z)‐pentafluoropropen‐1‐yl, trifluoropropyn‐1‐yl, pentafluoroethyl, trifluorovinyl, vinyl, propyn‐1‐yl, di‐ and trichloromethyl, display electron withdrawing effects of varying strength. The lengths of the bonds between the silicon and the carbon atoms of X correlate with the hybridization of the respective orbitals and the steric demand of X rather than with the electron withdrawing capability. In case of chlorinated substituents dispersion effects seem to shorten the Si−C bond. Furthermore, a route for generating trifluoropropyn‐1‐yllithium from the cryogen 2,3,3,3‐tetrafluoropropene (HFO‐1234yf) and n‐butyllithium is described. Tetrafluoropropen‐1‐yllithium is slowly formed at −80 °C but even at this temperature spontaneous elimination of LiF occurs. Deprotonation of the formed 3,3,3‐trifluoropropyne requires temperatures of above −60 °C leading to trifluoropropyn‐1‐yllithium which appears as relatively stable at room temperature.
High‐performance all‐solid‐state supercapacitor with binder‐free binary transition metal sulfide array as cathode
Authors: Li Yanan , Gong Junwei , Xing Xiaolin , Du Jialiang , Xu Panpan , Cheng Kui , Ye Ke , Zhu Kai , Yan Jun , Cao Dianxue , Wang Guiling
Published: December 2020

Transition metal sulfides show excellent performance in an aqueous supercapacitor. However, all‐solid‐state supercapacitors are attracting more and more interest because of thinner, lighter, and more flexible. Binary sulfides Ni3Co6S8 nanowire arrays (NCS) are directly grown on a nitrogen‐doped carbon foam (NCF) through hydrothermal reaction, which is applied as a binder‐free electrode for all‐solid‐state supercapacitor. The unique needlelike structure assembled by nanosheet effectively increases the utilization efficiency of active materials and promotes electrochemical performance. The NCS‐NCF electrode shows promising application potential for wearable electronic devices due to the flexibility of NCF. A high‐specific capacitance of 243 mAh g−1is delivered by NCS‐NCF electrode, which also exhibits good rate behavior along with outstanding cycle stability. The NCS‐NCF electrode (positive electrode) and NCF electrode (negative electrode) are employed to assemble asymmetric all‐solid‐state supercapacitor. When the high power density is 675 W kg−1, the energy density of supercapacitor reaches the maximum of 28.31 Wh kg−1. The specific capacitance of supercapacitors could maintain 84%, after 10 000 cycles of galvanostatic charge and discharge under 4 A g−1, indicating the potential application of NCS‐NCF electrode as an excellent supercapacitor electrode material in flexible, wearable energy storage systems.
High‐efficiency solar energy conversion using infrared focusing and reflection system
Authors: Sadeghi Hossein , Amrollahi Reza , Iraji Davoud , Dabaghian Saed , Fazelpour Samaneh
Published: December 2020

In this article, using solar radiation in infrared (IR) wavelengths, a new technique is investigated to increase the efficiency of conventional solar cells. The experiments on indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO), and antimony‐doped tin oxide (ATO) films showed that the impurity content and the substrate temperatures, while preparing the films, play a significant role in transparency and IR reflection of the final products. The investigation for ITO/Ag/ITO, ATO/Ag/ATO, and FTO/Ag/FTO films indicated that the reflection of the light increases with the growth of the silver layer thickness. Various experiments demonstrate that light reflection from thin films falls into two categories of specular and diffuse reflections. Eventually, considering simulation and experiment results, a new generation of solar panels was introduced by combining three technologies, including solar cells, IR reflective coating, and thermophotovoltaic cells, which will enhance the efficiency of solar energy conversion into electricity.
The penalty in energy consumption of battery electric vehicles operating at subzero temperatures
Authors: Boretti Alberto
Published: December 2020

Chassis dynamometer test results of a plug‐in battery‐electric vehicle are coupled to a Newton equation analysis. Propulsive and braking mechanical powers are computed and compared to the electric power in and out of the battery. We consider a 53.4 km reference driving cycle, comprising UDDS, Hwy, UDDS, and US06 cycles completed in sequence with different ambient temperatures, −6°C, 23°C, and 35°C. At −6°C, the battery energy used is ΔEe = 40.41 MJ, the propulsive efficiency is ηp = 0.62, and the regenerative braking efficiency is ηrb = 0.51. At 23°C, ΔEe = 22.78 MJ, ηp = 0.94, and ηrb = 0.84. Finally, at 35°C, ΔEe = 25.47 MJ, ηp = 0.88, and ηrb = 0.77. These results show as the temperature has a major influence on the energy efficiency of a BEV, with colder conditions translating in dramatically higher energy consumption, and warmer conditions also producing an increment in energy consumption. This is the result of the temperature‐dependent battery performance and cabin cooling or heating. Once the total energy consumption penalty is depurated of the energy needed to run the auxiliaries, primarily cabin cooling, and heating, there is a large effect of very cold temperature that calls for better heating strategies for BEV sold in cold‐weather markets.
Behavioral and neurophysiological signatures of interoceptive enhancements following vagus nerve stimulation
Authors: Richter Fabian , García Adolfo M. , Rodriguez Arriagada Nicolas , Yoris Adrian , Birba Agustina , Huepe David , Zimmer Heinz , Ibáñez Agustín , Sedeño Lucas
Published: December 2020

An accruing body of research has shown that interoception (the sensing of signals from the body's internal milieu) relies on both a direct route (afforded by the vagus nerve) and a secondary route (supported by somatosensory mechanisms). However, no study has causally tested the differential role of these pathways, let alone via direct stimulation. To bridge this gap, we tested whether multidimensional signatures of interoception are modulated by noninvasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS). Sixty‐three participants were divided into an nVNS and a sham‐stimulation group. Before and after stimulation, both groups performed a validated heartbeat detection (HBD) task including a genuinely interoceptive condition (monitoring one's own heartbeat) and a control exteroceptive condition (tracking an aurally presented heartbeat). Electroencephalographic signals were obtained during both conditions to examine modulations of the heartbeat‐evoked potential (HEP). Moreover, before and after stimulation, participants were asked to complete a somatosensory heartbeat localization task. Results from the interoceptive condition revealed that, after treatment, only the nVNS group exhibited improved performance and greater HEP modulations. No behavioral differences were found for the exteroceptive control condition, which was nonetheless associated with significant HEP modulations. Finally, no between‐group differences were observed regarding the localization of the heartbeat sensations or relevant cardiodynamic variables (heart rate and or heart rate variability). Taken together, these results constitute unprecedented evidence that the vagus nerve plays a direct role in neurovisceral integration during interoception. This finding can constrain mechanistic models of the domain while informing a promising transdiagnostic agenda for interoceptive impairments across neuropsychiatric conditions.