bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF OPERATIONS OF INVESTMENT FUNDS IN SELECTED COUNTRIES OF THE WESTERN BALKANS
Authors: Bojat Milica
Published: July 2022

Investment funds are gaining importance in recent times, since they allow small investors to reduce risk, use financial expertise, facilitate access to the international capital market and achieve a higher rate of return on investments compared to banks. The aim of this research is to show, in accordance with the available data and using comparative analysis, the similarities and differences in the operations of investment funds in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Croatia and Montenegro, and to prove that these financial institutions, although they have potential, do not contribute to the economic development of these countries to the extent that they could. The object of the comparison is the nature of the origin, the number, the type, the net asset value and the percentage of the participation of investment funds in the GDP of the observed countries. The main hypothesis is that investment funds in analyzed countries do not represent a significant part of the financial system and, due to the nature of their creation, do not make a significant contribution to economic development. Two auxiliary hypotheses arise from the main hypothesis: investment funds, created in the process of privatization, due to the absence of essential market conditions for their establishment, are not able to achieve a significant impact on economic growth; the growth of the value of the investment funds assets does not affect the growth of the volume of investments in the country. In addition to the comparative analysis methods, the method of simple correlation analysis, as well as other scientific methods, will be used to prove these hypotheses. The results of the survey confirmed the hypothesis that investment funds do not represent an important part of the financial system in the analyzed countries today and, due to the nature of their creation, and do not make a significant contribution to the economic development.
Embedded-atom method potential for Ti2AlNb alloys
Authors: Liu Jie , Liu Yan-Xia ,   College of Physics, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110036, China
Published: July 2022

Molecular dynamics simulation is an effective computer simulation method. However, owing to the lack of suitable interatomic potential of multicomponent alloys, the application of molecular dynamics simulation is limited. The development of interatomic potential of multicomponent alloys has always been challenging. In this work, under the framework of EAM model, a construction method of interatomic potential suitable for ternary ordered alloys is proposed, and a new interatomic potential of Ti2AlNb alloys suitable for atomic-scale mechanical behavior simulation is developed. The potential can well reproduce the elastic constants of B2-Ti2AlNb, unrelaxation vacancy formation energy, substitutional atom formation energy, transposition atom formation energy, surface energy and cohesive energy of three ordered phase (B2, D019 and O phases ) in different volumes. To further test the potential functions, 1) the E-V curve of B2 phase is calculated, and the result is well consistent with Rose curve; 2) the melting transformation process of B2 phase is studied by molecular dynamics simulation, and the results roughly reflect the experimental fact. The present work provides a way to develop the interatomic potential of multicomponent alloys, and a option for the workers who simulate and calculate the Ti2AlNb alloys as well.
Improvement of performance of halide solid electrolyte by tuning cations
Authors: He Bing , Lian Yu-Xiang , Wu Mu-Sheng , Luo Wen-Wei , Yang Shen-Bo , Ouyang Chu-Ying ,   College of Physics and Communication Electronics, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022, China,   Hongzhiwei Technology (Shanghai) CO.LTD., Shanghai 200120, China
Published: July 2022

Ternary lithium metal halides have attracted much attention as potential solid electrolytes. In this work, we study the structural, electronic and ionic diffusion properties of a series of LixYCl3+x (x = 2.14, 3.00, 4.20) and LixYBr3+x (x = 1.8, 3.0, 5.0) by using first-principles calculation based on density functional theory. The calculation results show that the Li-ion concentration has a significant effect on the properties of the materials, and with the increase of x value, Li-ion number becomes higher, structure turns more stable, band gap gets larger, and migration barrier lowers, thus the performance of the material can be tuned. In addition, the calculation results further show that Li3YCl6 and Li3YBr6 with the best balance between Li-ion carrier concentration and vacancy concentration exhibit the highest structural stability, the largest band gaps, and the lowest migration barriers in all similar structures. Our study provides a new strategy and idea for designing better-performance halide solid electrolytes.
What sharks and mammals share
Authors: Pantalacci Sophie
Published: July 2022

The tooth shape of sharks and mice are regulated by a similar signaling center despite their teeth having very different geometries.
Pupils’ experiences of learning analytics visualizations in supporting self-regulated learning in an elementary school classroom
Authors: Väisänen Sanna , Hallberg Susanne , Valtonen Teemu , Tervo Ida-Auroora , Kankaanpää Jenni , Sointu Erkko , Hirsto Laura
Published: July 2022

The importance of self-regulated learning (SRL) has become increasingly apparent. Further, technology-enhanced learning provides novel ways to support this while different technologies have changed the learning environments. The aim of this study was to investigate the perspectives of 5th–6th grade pupils on learning analytics and self-regulated learning during a phenomenon-based learning module in a blended learning environment. A total of 89 pupils participated in the learning module and were observed. Furthermore, ten pupils were interviewed after completing a learning module. A qualitative content analysis was conducted. The results revealed that, overall, pupils experience of self-regulated learning and learning analytics was positive. The pupils perceived the digital learning and learning analytics as functional and motivating, and some pupils stated that it helped their learning. Also, the pupils became increasingly self-directed during the study module. However, setting goals and managing to follow them appeared to be quite difficult for many of the pupils. The findings imply that a learning management system, which is built to support self-regulated learning may support the development of pupils’ self-regulation and guide their ability to learn independently as well as with their peers.
Assessing university students’ study-related burnout and academic well-being in digital learning environments
Authors: Koivuneva Katri , Ruokamo Heli
Published: July 2022

Previous research suggested a strong connection between students’ experiences of traditional learning environments and study-related burnout (Brown et al., 2012; Chen et al., 2017; Meriläinen, 2014; Kuittinen & Meriläinen, 2014). However, digital learning environments and how they can pedagogically support students’ well-being remain, in many respects, an unexplored area (Ruokamo et al., 2016; Lewin & Lundie, 2016). Moreover, pedagogical assessment, including how it can support students’ academic well-being, often lags behind the latest technological developments (Spector, 2014; Popenici & Kerr, 2017; Bates et al., 2020; Holmes et al., 2019; Luckin et al., 2016). 
This research systematically reviews the literature relevant to study-related burnout and academic well-being in digital learning environments. It is done by surveying articles published between 2012 and 2021. First, the findings suggest that there is a body of studies focusing on certain dimensions of study-related burnout. Second, students’ well-being in digital learning environments is less studied and relies mostly on emotional achievement theory and research on academic emotions. Finally, supporting students’ academic well-being through digital assessment is mostly enabled through formative assessment, but it is moving toward artificial intelligence and game-based assessment. Thus, more research is needed on the subject.
Genetic diversity of enterotoxigenic Bacillus cereus strains in coriander in southwestern Mexico
Authors: Castulo-Arcos Daniel Alexander , Adame-Gómez Roberto , Castro-Alarcón Natividad , Galán-Luciano Aketzalli , Santiago Dionisio María Cristina , Leyva-Vázquez Marco A. , Perez-Olais Jose-Humberto , Toribio-Jiménez Jeiry , Ramirez-Peralta Arturo
Published: July 2022

Background

Coriander, like other leafy green vegetables, is available all year round and is commonly consumed raw in Mexico as in other countries in the preparation of street or homemade food. Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) is a microorganism that can reach coriander because it is usually found in the soil and in some regions the vegetables are irrigated with polluted water. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determinate the presence of B. cereus in coriander used for human consumption in southwestern Mexico and determine the toxigenic profile, biofilm production, genes associated with the production of biofilms, sporulation rates, enzymatic profile, psychotropic properties, and genetic diversity of B. cereus.

Methods

Fresh coriander samples were collected from several vegetable retailers in different markets, microbiological analysis was performed. Molecular identification, genes related to the production of biofilm, and toxin gene profiling of B. cereus isolates were determined by PCR. The biofilm formation was measured by performing a crystal violet assay. The genetic diversity of B. cereus strains was determined by PCR of repetitive elements using oligonucleotide (GTG) 5.

Results

We found a frequency of B. cereus in vegetables was 20% (13/65). In this study, no strains with genes for the HBL toxin were found. In the case of genes related to biofilms, the frequency was low for sipW [5.8%, (1/17)] and tasA [11.7%, (2/17)]. B. cereus strains produce a low amount of biofilm with sporulation rates around 80%. As for genetic diversity, we observed that strains isolated from the same market, but different vegetable retailers are grouped into clusters. In the coriander marketed in southwestern Mexico, were found B. cereus strains with genes associated with the production of diarrheal toxins. Together, these results show actual information about the state of art of B. cereus strains circulating in the southwestern of Mexico.
Risk Perceptions of Environmental and Health Problems Associated with Artisanal Crude Oil Refining in Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: Chukwunweike Ephraim-Emmanuel, Benson , Enembe Okokon , Best Ordinioha
Published: July 2022

When crude oil is artisanally refined, it releases compounds that contribute to environmental pollution and health problems. The perceptions regarding these problems could be instrumental in tackling the involvement in these illicit activities. This study thus assessed the perception of the environmental and health risks associated with artisanal refining of petroleum products in communities in Bayelsa State.

The study was conducted among 615 adult residents of 3 selected communities in Bayelsa State. Multistage sampling was applied in selecting the respondents who provided responses to the administered questionnaires. Necessary ethical considerations were made during the conduct of this study.

Results from the study indicate that respondents had good perception regarding the possibility that environmental and health risks could occur as a result of crude oil artisanal refining activities (Criterion mean: 2.5 (62.5%); Grand mean [environmental risks]: 3.25 [81.15%]; Grand mean [health risks]: 3.13 [78.32%]) respectively.

The study found that the communities have good perceptions of environmental and health risks associated with the artisanal refining of crude oil in Bayelsa State. There is therefore need for sustained health education to maintain good perceptions of the health and environmental risks associated with petroleum-related artisanal refining.
Fisheries as Common-Pool Resources, Its Management and Impact on Fishing Ecosystem in Indonesia: A Mini-Review
Authors: Yudawan Gifarri Azanna , Khayrruraja Ajya , Islamiati Azahra , Rizal Achmad
Published: July 2022

Fisheries as a common-pool resource (CPR) provides a classic case of open access dilemma: competition for yields is often fierce and the absence of access management could lead to conflicts. Availability, quality, and diversity of fishery resources in sufficient quantities are the foundation of fisheries management for present and future generations. Indonesia’s governing body, or more broadly, the governance, should be the moving force in producing policy outcomes involving coordination of conservation efforts to regulate extractive uses of natural resources. This paper briefly reviews the Indonesian fisheries policy as a CPR, its indicators, and its implication for the local fishing ecosystem.
Mapping of Land Use/Land Cover Changes in the Selected Midland Paddy Fields of Kollam District, Kerala, India
Authors: Mohan Meethu , Jaya D. S. , Sheeja R .V.
Published: July 2022

Land use/ land cover is a key driver of global environmental change. A shift in land use and land cover can alter the human settlement patterns and other economic developments and may finally end up with environmental degradation. The present study appraises the land use and land cover changes in the midland paddy fields of Chathannoor Panchayath, Kerala, South India over the last two decades (2002-2019). The digitized data analysis, interpretation, mapping and lay out preparation were done in ArcGIS10.3. Results of the study show the most distinctive changes like the decrease in area of paddy cultivation and elevation in the area of other crops. The reduction in the area of paddy fields mainly occurred during the period 2002 to 2009, with corresponding increase in the area of other crops. The increasing cost due to hike in wages of labourers and the relative price changes in favour of competing crops were responsible for the less cultivation of paddy fields in the study area. The practice of conversion of paddy lands into cultivation with other crops as well as for non-agricultural purpose increased. Stringent measures should be enacted to control these drastic land changes in the study area.
Antimicrobial Sensitivity of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and Virulence Genes of Representative Isolates in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: N. A. Ujoh, , E. G. Nwokah, , S. E. Amala , C. K. Wachukwu,
Published: July 2022

Aim: To assess the antimicrobial susceptibility, Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and virulence genes of representative isolates in some selected sites of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

Study Design:  Case-controlled study.

Place and Duration of Study: Selected places in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, between November, 2020 to November, 2021.

Methodology: Three hundred and forty-nine (349) samples were analyzed, 80 meat and 63 waste waters from five abattoirs cited in the city, 46 meat samples from five selected roadside butchers sites in the city, 109 patients stool samples, 30 stool samples from food sellers, 20 stool samples from healthy subjects and 1 commercial bottled water which served as control samples. A combination of methods was employed: conventional culture using Tryptone soya broth as an enrichment media, chromagar STEC and serology with O157 latex reagents. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction analysis was used to screen for the presence of specific virulence genes in representative isolates and 16SrRNA sequence data was used to confirm the identity of isolates. GraphPad Prism 2.01 was used to perform the statistical analysis and p values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results: The results showed that 20 (100%) of the selected isolates profiled for virulence gene harbored a combination of stx1 + stx2, while 45% carried the eaeA gene. The culture and molecular methods used in STEC detection showed a good level of agreement comparatively.  The result of isolates sequenced for identification by targeting the 16S gene and compared with publicly available sequences on NCBI for phylogenetic analysis showed 100% identities to the ribosomal RNA gene of seven uncultured Escherichia coli strains with Gene Accession numbers (CP049290, MN208208, KY780343, CP058233 MK641327, CP082357, CP082129, MH346270). Isolates were resistant to Ceftazidime 98.9%, Cefuroxime 100%, Cefixime 100%, Augmentin 100% and sensitive to the quinolones and nitrofuratoin. The virulence gene combination pattern, the antibiogram pattern and the phylogenetic analysis result indicated genetic relatedness of isolates.   

Conclusion: The representative isolates harbored stx1 and stx2 combination, only 45% harbored stx1, stx2 and eaeA genes combination. Phylogenetic analysis of the representative isolates confirmed the genetic similarity of isolates.
SIR Model for COVID-19 Dynamics Incorporating Clinical Management
Authors: Mayabi Lucian Talu , Nthiiri Joyce Kagendo , Tireito Frankline , Sum Tecla
Published: July 2022

In this paper, a mathematical model for COVID-19 disease incorporating clinical management based on a system of Ordinary Differential Equations is developed. The existence of the steady states of the model are determined and the effective reproduction number derived using the next generation matrix approach. Stability analysis of the model is carried out to determine the conditions that favour the spread of COVID-19 disease in a given population. The Disease Free Equilibrium is show to be locally asymptotically stable when \(R\)e < 1 and the Endemic Equilibrium is locally asymptotically stable when \(R\)e > 1. The Disease Free Equilibrium is shown not to be globally asymptotically stable using a technique by Castillo Chavez and the Endemic Equilibrium is shown to be globally asymptotically stable by means of Lyapunov's direct method and LaSalle's invariance principle. This implies that COVID-19 disease transmission can be kept low or manageable with the incorporation of clinical management. Sensitivity analysis of the model is carried out by use of the normalised forward sensitivity index (elasticity) which shows that the higher the rates of clinical management the lower the rate of infection. Numerical simulations carried out using MATLAB software showed that with high success of clinical management, there is low contact rate and low prevalence rate of the disease in the population.
Evaluation of Geotechnical Parameters and Attributes of Amassoma Soil in Bayelsa State, South-south, Nigeria, Using Seismic Refraction Analysis as an Indicator for Its Engineering Strength Determination
Authors: Nwankwo R. C. , Aigbedion I.
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we have carried out analysis of seismic refraction data obtained from two locations around Amassoma and its environs in Bayelsa State, South-South, Central Niger Delta, Nigeria. The core objective of the study was to evaluate the elastic parameters and attributes of the soil and its geotechnical conditions in order to determine its soil strength to carry load . These geophysical parameters and attributes include the p-wave and s-wave velocities, Vp /Vs ratio, dynamic Poisson ratio σ, rigidity modulus μ, bulk incompressibility K, Young’s modulus E, lamda-rho (lame’s) attribute λρ, K/μ ratio, and E/μ ratio. The layer velocities were obtained as the inverse of the slope of the travel time versus geophone distance curves plotted with the available refraction data, while the layer thicknesses were obtained from the intercepts of the plots. The p-wave and s-wave velocities were used as inputs in various mathematical relations to obtain the elastic moduli and their ratios. The results obtained depict a two-layer model, with the mean p-wave velocities of the layers generally found to lie in the 218m/s - 392m/s range and mean s-wave velocities in the 128m/s -231m/s range. The Vp/Vs ratio (the lithology discriminator) has values lying between 1.699 and 1.7 and the dynamic Poisson ratio has values between 0.235 and 0.240 . The moduli have most of their values above 3.0 x 107 N/m2 and their ratios are clearly more than unity. Overall, these results show that the topsoil and underlying sediments in the study area which are composed mainly of clay and sandy clay can be described as well consolidated and competent geomaterials that can support foundation structures and loads placed on them. In the final analysis, all the results obtained were found to be in agreement with the values reported in the literature for the Niger Delta and across the globe. The seismic refraction method has therefore been shown in this study as an effective technique for assessing the geotechnical strength of the soil.
Remittances Flow to India: Trends and Determinants
Authors: Tupe Sanjay
Published: July 2022

This paper investigates the trends in flow of remittance to India using Semi-log Linear Model on the data set starting from 2000 to 2011. We divide the entire dataset into Pre global economic crisis period (2000-2007) and Post global economic crisis period (2008-11). Our result reveals that the flow of remittances is declined during the post global economic crisis period. Amongst the Asian countries under the study and whose immigrants have larger presence in USA, Europe and Middle East, remittance flow coming from them to India and China is severely affected due to recession in these countries. However, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal are not much affected because of their workers are not in information technology sector and in the high skilled industries.
NIR Photodetectors with Highly Efficient Detectivity Enabled by 2D Fluorinated Dithienopicenocarbazole‐Based Ultra‐Narrow Bandgap Acceptors
Authors: Liao Xunfan , Xie Wenchao , Han Zeyao , Cui Yongjie , Xia Xinxin , Shi Xueliang , Yao Zhaoyang , Xu Xiaobao , Lu Xinhui , Chen Yiwang
Published: June 2022

Developing non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) with strong absorption and optical response in near‐infrared region (NIR) is an imperative avenue for achieving efficient organic solar cells (OSCs) and NIR organic photodetectors (OPDs). Herein, four ultra‐narrow bandgap NFAs with different alkyl side chains and 2D fluorinated or non‐fluorinated phenyl substituents using dithienopyrrolecarbazole as electron‐rich core are designed and synthesized for photoelectric devices. The effect of 2D central core fluorination on molecular self‐assembly and optoelectronic properties is comprehensively explored. Due to the banana‐type molecular conformation of these NFAs, they can easily form honeycomb‐like 3D network stacking, and the central core fluorination is confirmed that can reduce ππ stacking distance and enhance intermolecular interaction, which result in smaller molecular stacking density. As a result, the 2D fluorinated acceptors based OSCs display more balanced and higher carrier mobilities, contributing to higher fill factor and efficiency. Moreover, the NIR OPD devices based on PTB7‐Th:FDTPC‐OD exhibit a superior responsivity of >0.4 A W−1 at 880 nm, a low dark current of ≈8 × 10–11 A, and an excellent specific detectivity (D*) of >2.5 × 1011 Jones. The NIR OPD also demonstrates excellent performance in photo‐plethysmography and shows great potential for application in monitoring heart rate.
Control of Plexcitonic Strong Coupling via Substrate‐Mediated Hotspot Nanoengineering
Authors: Xiong Xiao , Lai Yiming , Clarke Daniel , Kongsuwan Nuttawut , Dong Zhaogang , Bai Ping , Png Ching Eng , Wu Lin , Hess Ortwin
Published: June 2022

Plexcitonic strong coupling has ushered in an era of room‐temperature quantum electrodynamics at the nanoscale. Realizing its potential applications from single‐molecule spectroscopy to room‐temperature quantum technologies on an industrial level requires scalable and mass‐producible plasmonic cavities that provide ease of access and control for quantum emitters. Here, a strategy for multidimensional hotspot engineering is proposed via a rational selection of substrates, which facilitates elevation of a gold bowtie nanocavity hotspot to the top of the device and provides a field enhancement of ≈482 (a 1.6‐fold increase compared to a conventional bowtie‐on‐glass cavity at the bottom of the nanogap). The formation mechanism for these antenna modes is discussed from the perspective of charge carrier motion; and their advantages, particularly in view of their dominantly in‐plane polarized near‐fields, are further elaborated in a spatiotemporal study of plexcitonic strong coupling, which reveals ultrafast quantum dynamics and potential for applications related to 2D materials whose excitonic dipoles are typically oriented in‐plane. The conceptual discovery of this substrate‐enabled hotspot nanoengineering could readily be extended to tailor hotspots in other plasmonic platforms, and may inspire a plethora of novel research directions from plasmon‐enhanced spectroscopy and sensing to the design of quantum logic gates and quantum metasurfaces.
Recent Advances in the Total Synthesis of Aspidosperma and Kopsia Alkaloids Using Tetracyclic Pyridocarbazoles as Versatile Building Blocks
Authors: Wang Nengzhong , Xiao Xiao , Liu Cheng‐Xiong , Yao Hui , Huang Nianyu , Zou Kun
Published: June 2022

Over the past decades, aspidosperma and kopsia alkaloids have attracted significant interest by the organic synthetic community owing to their intricate fused‐ring structures and broad biological activities. Consequently, numerous strategically distinct total syntheses have been accomplished, among which tetracyclic pyridocarbazoles have seen widespread adoption as versatile building blocks. In this review, we elaborate and discuss the synthesis of such tetracyclic pyridocarbazoles according to the different approaches for the establishment of the all‐carbon quaternary center at C5. This includes (1) classic synthetic reactions (cycloaddition, Michael addition, nucleophilic substitution, and Claisen rearrangement), (2) palladium‐catalyzed asymmetric decarboxylative allylation reactions, and (3) thiourea‐catalyzed asymmetric Michael addition reactions. Furthermore, we also describe the late‐stage key transformations in the realm of the total syntheses of aspidosperma and kopsia alkaloids.

magnified image
Rapid Nucleation and Slow Crystal Growth of CsPbI3Films Aided by Solvent Molecular Sieve for Perovskite Photovoltaics
Authors: Wang Kai‐Li , Su Zhen‐Huang , Lou Yan‐Hui , Lv Qiang , Chen Jing , Shi Yi‐Ran , Chen Chun‐Hao , Zhou Yu‐Hang , Gao Xing‐Yu , Wang Zhao‐Kui , Liao Liang‐Sheng
Published: June 2022

The main reason for large energy loss in all‐inorganic perovskites is ascribed to the slow nucleation and fast crystallization of all‐inorganic perovskite films. Herein, a manipulating strategy is demonstrated to simultaneously realize rapid nucleation and slow crystal growth of CsPbI3perovskite films by employing solvent molecular sieves in the antisolvent. First, the antisolvent treatment of mixed chlorobenzene and ethyl alcohol can induce the instantaneous supersaturation of perovskites to achieve rapid nucleation. Subsequently, the molecular layer of phthalimide (2‐N) molecules on the perovskite surface can be used as solvent molecular sieves to precisely control the evaporation of the solvent through molecule–solvent interactions. In addition, the molecules remaining on the surface can also effectively passivate the surface defects and improve the device performance. By this strategy, a synchronous regulation of rapid nucleation and slow crystal growth of perovskite films is realized for the first time. As a result, the CsPbI3film with 2‐N treatment presents high‐quality crystallinity with large grains and less defects. The champion device exhibits an outdoor power conversion efficiency (PCE) up to 20.14% under AM1.5G illumination, and an indoor PCE up to 40.07% (Pout:133.9 µW cm–2) under a commonly used light‐emitting diode light source (2956 K, 1062 lux).
Self‐Assembly Metal Chelate as Ultraviolet Filterable Interface Layer for Efficient Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Yu Runnan , Shi Rui , Liu Hao , Wu Guangzheng , Ma Zongwen , Gao Huaizhi , He Zhangwei , Tan Zhan'ao
Published: June 2022

Interface engineering plays a vital role in the further improvement of efficiency and stability for organic solar cells (OSCs). Herein, a self‐assembly metal chelate based on hafnium and a designed ligand, N‐(4‐(3‐oxobutanoyl)phenyl)acetamide (ACBN) is applied as both interfacial modification layer and UV‐light filter in OSCs. The strong hydrogen‐bond induced intermolecular interaction enables Hf(ACBN)4 with the prerequisite of adequate solvent resistance to work as an electron transport layer (ETL) in the inverted OSCs. The self‐assembly behavior of Hf(ACBN)4 on the SnO2 film surface via constructing compact coordination structure has been verified via systematic theory calculations. In addition to optimizing the energy level alignment, the Hf(ACBN)4 modification effectively passivates the surface defect of SnO2 films for less surface charge recombination and a more efficient charge collection process. Thus, the OSCs with Hf(ACBN)4 layer yield a maximum PCE of 18.1%, better than that based on the bare SnO2 layer. Moreover, beneficial from the reduced oxygen vacancies via coordination effect and the UV‐light filter function of Hf(ACBN)4, the OSCs based on SnO2/ Hf(ACBN)4 composite ETL exhibit preferable stabilities under UV‐light irradiation or continuous operational conditions.
Effects of seeding date on grain and biomass yield of intermediate wheatgrass
Authors: Jungers Jacob Michael , Schiffner Sydney , Sheaffer Craig , Ehlke Nancy Jo , DeHaan Lee , Torrion Jessica , Noland Reagan L. , Franco Jose G.
Published: June 2022

Intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium) (IWG) is a perennial grass being domesticated for grain production with potential to provide economic return and ecosystem services across a broad geographic range in North America, yet optimum seeding dates for grain and biomass yield are unknown. Our objective was to determine the effect of late‐summer, fall, and spring seeding dates on grain and biomass yield of a grain‐type IWG population. Trials were conducted at St. Paul and Roseau, MN, Kalispell, MT, and Salina, KS. Seeding dates ranged from August to June of the following year. Grain and biomass yields were highest when seeded at the earliest late‐summer date for all environments except for Kansas, where a September 29 seeding date produced the greatest grain and biomass yields. Little to no grain was produced from spring seedings in the first production year, substantiating that photoperiod and vernalization requirements are needed for seed head induction. Grain and biomass yields were positively correlated to cumulative growing degree days (GDD) from seeding date to winter dormancy. A quadratic response was observed at Salina, KS, where seed yields maximized when GDD accumulation reached 912. Accumulation of vernalization units throughout fall, winter, and spring after seeding was also positively correlated with grain yield. The minimum vernalization units for grain production varied from 50 to 87 across sites. Results highlight important associations between thermal units and IWG grain yield when seeded in late summer; however, other variables affecting IWG seed head induction (e.g., photoperiod, snow cover) require further study.
Blumgart anastomosis with polyglycolic acid felt reduces the incidence of pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy: A propensity score analysis
Authors: Fukami Yasuyuki , Saito Takuya , Osawa Takaaki , Komatsu Shunichiro , Sano Tsuyoshi
Published: June 2022

Polyglycolic acid (PGA) felt has been used to prevent clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR‐POPF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). However, there has been no related research on Blumgart anastomosis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the practical significance of Blumgart anastomosis with our new method involving PGA felt to prevent CR‐POPF following PD. Data from 133 consecutive patients who underwent Blumgart anastomosis during PD between June 2015 and November 2021 were reviewed. We applied PGA felt to 35 of these patients starting from July 2020. Surgical outcomes were analyzed by propensity score matching. Thirty‐five (35.7%) of the 98 patients in the without‐PGA group were matched with an equal number from the with‐PGA group after adjusting for covariates. CR‐POPF was found in 17 patients (49%) in the without‐PGA group and two patients (6%) in the with‐PGA group (P < .001). The multivariate analysis results indicated that male sex, pancreatic duct size <3 mm, soft pancreatic texture, and nonuse of PGA were independently associated with CR‐POPF after PD. In conclusion, Blumgart anastomosis with our new penetrating method for PGA felt reduces the incidence of CR‐POPF after PD.
Efficient and Selective Chemical Recycling of CO2‐Based Alicyclic Polycarbonates via Catalytic Pyrolysis
Authors: Yu Yan , Gao Bang , Liu Ye , Lu Xiao‐Bing
Published: June 2022

Chemical recycling of polymers to their constituent monomers is the foremost challenge in building a sustainable circular plastics economy. Here, we report a strategy for highly efficient depolymerization of various CO2‐based alicyclic polycarbonates to epoxide monomers in solvent‐free conditions by a simple CrIII‐Salen complex mediated catalytic pyrolysis process. The chemical recycling of the widely studied poly(cyclohexene carbonate) exhibits excellent reactivity (TOF up to 3000 h−1, 0.1 mol % catalyst loading) and high epoxide monomer selectivity (>99 %). Mechanistic investigation reveals that the process proceeds in a sequential fashion via atrans‐carbonate intermediate.
Understudied factors in drug‐coated balloon design and evaluation: A biophysical perspective
Authors: Shazly Tarek , Torres William M. , Secemsky Eric A. , Chitalia Vipul C. , Jaffer Farouc A. , Kolachalama Vijaya B.
Published: June 2022

Drug‐coated balloon (DCB) percutaneous interventional therapy allows for durable reopening of the narrowed lumen via physical tissue expansion and local anti‐restenosis drug delivery, providing an alternative to traditional uncoated balloons or a permanent indwelling implant such as a conventional metallic drug‐eluting stent. While DCB‐based treatment of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) has been incorporated into clinical guidelines, DCB use has been recently curtailed due to reports that showed evidence of increased mortality risk in patients treated with paclitaxel (PTX)‐coated balloons. Given the United States Food and Drug Administration's 2019 consequent warning regarding PTX‐eluting DCBs and the subsequent marked reduction in clinical DCB use, there is now a critical need to better understand the compositional and mechanical factors underlying DCB efficacy and safety. Most work to date on DCB refinement has focused on designing both the enabling balloon catheter and alternate coatings composed of various drugs and excipients, followed by device evaluation in preclinical and clinical studies. We contend that improvement in DCB performance will require a better understanding of the biophysical factors operative during and following balloon deployment, and moreover that the elaboration and demonstrated control of these factors are needed to address current concerns with DCB use. This article provides a perspective on the biophysical interactions that govern DCB performance and offers new design strategies for the development of next‐generation DCB devices.
Increased expression of FAT4 suppress metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma through regulating MAPK pathway and associated with immune cells infiltration
Authors: Ning Yue , Yang Yang , Zheng Hongmei , Zhan Yuting , Zang Hongjing , Wen Qiuyuan , Peng Jinwu , Fan Songqing
Published: June 2022

FAT4 is an extremely large atypical cadherin with crucial roles in the control of planar cell polarity (PCP) and regulation of the Hippo signaling pathway. Our study aims to clarify the FAT4 expression patterns, as well as the significance of FAT4 in predicting the prognosis and cancer immunity to non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). FAT4 mRNA and protein expressions were both underregulated in NSCLC and associated with poor prognosis in both lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). In addition, overexpress FAT4 with jujuboside A (JUA) or knockdown FAT4 with siRNA regulated the metastasis of LUAD through MAPK pathways. Moreover, the FAT4 expression included multiple immunological components to promote an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Furthermore, a study of the TCGA‐LUAD cohort's DNA methylation results showed that most FAT4 DNA CpG sites were typically hypermethylated in NSCLC relative to the normal lung tissue. The DNA CpG sites cg25879360 and cg26389756 of FAT4 were found to be strongly associated with FAT4 expression in LUAD through the correlation study. In conclusion, this is the first to report the potential function of FAT4 in NSCLC. Hence, FAT4 could be used as a promising prognostic and immunological biomarker for NSCLC.
EphrinA3 is a key regulator of malignant behaviors and a potential prognostic factor in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yiminniyaze Ruzetuoheti , Zhang Xiujuan , Zhu Ning , Wang Jing , Li Chengwei , Wumaier Gulinuer , Zhou Daibing , Li Jing , Xia Jingwen , Zhang Youzhi , Dong Liang , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Shengqing
Published: June 2022

Background

As a member of the Ephrin protein family that elicits short distance cell‐cell signaling, EphrinA3 has been shown to promote or inhibit tumorigenesis depending on tumor types, but its roles and the underlying mechanisms in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) have not been reported.

Materials and Methods

The TCGA database and Kaplan‐Meier Plotter database were used to analyze the differential expression of EphrinA3 between LUAD and para‐carcinoma tissues, and its effect on overall survival of LUAD patients. CCK‐8 assay, Edu assay, and flow cytometry were used to probe the effect of EphrinA3 on the proliferation of LUAD cells, and transwell assay was employed to examine its effect on migration and invasion. In addition, the effect of EphrinA3 on the growth of LUAD was further evaluated using a xenograft tumor model.

Results

EphrinA3 was expressed highly in LUAD, and its expression level was negatively correlated with the prognosis of LUAD patients. In addition, EphrinA3 promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion of LUAD cells, and accelerated tumor growth in a xenograft LUAD model. The reported EphrinA3 receptors, EphA1 and EphA10, were expressed in clinical LUAD tissues and co‐localized with EphrinA3 in LUAD cells. Mechanistically, EphrinA3/Eph signaling activated AKT, ERK, and p38MAPK, induced epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), and upregulated matrix metalloproteases‐2 and ‐9 (MMP‐2/−9).

Conclusion

EphrinA3 expression was negatively correlated with prognosis of patients with LUAD. EphrinA3 promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion of LUAD cells. EphrinA3 enhanced the phosphorylation of ERK and AKT, and potentiates EMT and MMP expression in LUAD cells.
Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Biosynthesized Using Fresh Green Walnut Shell in Microwave Environment and their Anticancer Effect on Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Sulak Mine , Turgut Gurbet Celik , Sen Alaattin
Published: June 2022

In this study, cerium oxide nanoparticles (CONPs) were synthesized using fresh green walnut shell extract in microwave environment. The morphology and structure of the CONPs were determined using ultraviolet‐visible (UV/VIS), attenuated total reflection‐Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Crystal purple staining, Annexin V‐FITC detection, RT‐PCR, P53, and NF‐κB luciferase reporter assays were performed to evaluate the mechanism of action of CONPs in breast cancer cell lines (MCF7). The biosynthesized CONPs showed cytotoxic effects and induced apoptosis in MCF7 cells. Furthermore, CONPs induced P53 expression and suppressed NF‐κB gene expression, both of which were confirmed using reporter assays. Based on the present results, it was concluded that CONPs can induce apoptosis by acting on P53 at the transcriptional level and may cause cell death by suppressing NF‐κB‐mediated transcription.
Turning the page: The importance of faculty‐led book clubs
Authors: Landry Christie A. , Richard Jacqueline M. , Layou Karen M.
Published: June 2022

One of the easiest‐to‐implement forms of professional development for colleges and universities is the faculty‐led book club (FLBC), yet little has been written regarding implementation, outcomes, and experiences of those participating in FLBCs as a form of professional development for college faculty. Book clubs are relatively easy to implement, build community among faculty and staff, provide leadership experience, foster conversations around timely pedagogical and social issues, and lead to change in instructional practice. In this chapter, we recall the experiences of several community college faculty and their opportunities to facilitate book clubs on their campuses.
Stress hyperglycemia ratio and long‐term mortality after acute myocardial infarction in patients with and without diabetes: A prospective, nationwide, and multicentre registry
Authors: Cui Kongyong , Fu Rui , Yang Jingang , Xu Haiyan , Yin Dong , Song Weihua , Wang Hongjian , Zhu Chenggang , Feng Lei , Wang Zhifang , Wang Qingsheng , Lu Ye , Dou Kefei , Yang Yuejin ,   CAMI Registry Investigators
Published: June 2022

Aims

To assess the predictive value of stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) for long‐term mortality after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients with and without diabetes.

Materials and Methods

We evaluated 6892 patients with AMI from the prospective, nationwide, multicentre China Acute Myocardial Infarction registry, of which 2820 had diabetes, and the remaining 4072 were nondiabetic patients. Patients were divided into high SHR and low SHR groups according to the optimal cutoff values of SHR to predict long‐term mortality for diabetic and nondiabetic patients, respectively. The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality at 2 years.

Results

The optimal cutoff values of SHR for predicting 2‐year mortality were 1.20 and 1.08 for the diabetic and nondiabetic population, respectively. Overall, patients with high SHR were significantly associated with higher all‐cause mortality compared with those with low SHR, in both diabetic patients (18.5% vs. 9.7%; hazard ratio [HR] 2.01, 95% confidence interval 1.63–2.49) and nondiabetic patients (12.0% vs. 6.4%; HR 1.95, 95%CI 1.57–2.41). After the potential confounders were adjusted, high SHR was significantly associated with higher risks of long‐term mortality in both diabetic (adjusted HR 1.73, 95%CI 1.39–2.15) and nondiabetic (adjusted HR 1.63, 95%CI 1.30–2.03) patients. Moreover, adding SHR to the original model led to a slight albeit significant improvement in C‐statistic, net reclassification, and integrated discrimination regardless of diabetic status.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated a strong positive association between SHR and long‐term mortality in patients with AMI with and without diabetes, suggesting that SHR should be considered a useful marker for risk stratification in these patients.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01874691.
Electrochemical Sensing of Chlorpyrifos, a Carcinogen Responsible for Breast Cancer, in Milk and Plasma of Lactating Mothers
Authors: Bishnoi Sunita , Sharma Ashutosh , Singhal Rahul , Gupta Pankaj , Goyal Rajendra N.
Published: June 2022

In view of the increase in breast cancer cases at the global level, electrochemical sensing of the carcinogenic pesticide, chlorpyrifos (CPF) in breast milk is proposed. The determination is based on the nucleophilic substitution reaction of pralidoxime (PAM) with CPF. The proposed method offers a linear concentration range of 0.002 to 0.08 μmol/L. The limit of detection and limit of quantification was found to be 0.05×10−9 and 0.167×10−9M, respectively. The offered “unmodified edge plane pyrolytic graphite sensor” proved to be a better substrate than the earlier reported modified sensors. The limit of detection for the proposed method was found to be nearly fifty times lower than reported at modified electrodes. The interference study proved the adequate selectivity of the offered sensor. The sensor has good stability and reproducibility along with high sensitivity. The offered sensor is very useful for cancer hospitals, pesticide industries, and the study of environmental toxicity‐related issues.
Carbon fiber damage evolution under flame attack and the role of impurities
Authors: Chávez‐Gómez Pablo , Pelzmann Tanja , Hall Darren R. , Chilian Cornelia , Laberge Lebel Louis , Robert Étienne
Published: June 2022

Carbon fibers (CFs) are prone to extensive oxidation under fire attack, for instance, in an aircraft fire scenario. This work addresses the damage mechanisms observed on polyacrylonitrile (PAN)‐based CFs with different microstructure exposed to open flames. A fixed‐point technique was developed to follow‐up individual CFs by means of time‐controlled insertion into premixed methane/air flames, followed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) analyses. Besides diameter reduction, three localized damage mechanisms were discerned in the presence of impurities, which were quantified by neutron activation analysis (NAA). Severe pitting was ascribed to catalytic oxidation mainly caused by alkali and alkaline earth metals. After an initial period where catalytic reactions between impurities and the carbon surface dominate, the flame stoichiometry governed the CF gasification process, with lean flames being much more aggressive than rich ones. A second mechanism, channeling, was caused by mobile metallic impurities. Some impurities showed an opposite effect, lowering reactivity and thus preventing further catalysis. Amorphous damage with a skin‐peeling effect is believed to be the result of localized impurities at high concentrations and microstructural variations. Hindrance or synergistic effects between impurities are discussed. Finally, apparent axial pit growth rates were determined and compared with other carbonaceous materials, revealing a strong influence of impurities and the flame reactive atmosphere on CF oxidation.
3D‐Epigenomic Regulation of Gene Transcription in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Feng Yuliang , Wang Ping , Cai Liuyang , Zhan Meixiao , He Fan , Wang Jiahui , Li Yong , Gega Eva , Zhang Wei , Zhao Wei , Xin Yongjie , Chen Xudong , Ruan Yijun , Lu Ligong
Published: June 2022

The fundamental cause of transcription dysregulation in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains elusive. To investigate the underlying mechanisms, comprehensive 3D‐epigenomic analyses are performed in cellular models of THLE2 (a normal hepatocytes cell line) and HepG2 (a hepatocellular carcinoma cell line) using integrative approaches for chromatin topology, genomic and epigenomic variation, and transcriptional output. Comparing the 3D‐epigenomes in THLE2 and HepG2 reveal that most HCC‐associated genes are organized in complex chromatin interactions mediated by RNA polymerase II (RNAPII). Incorporation of genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) data enables the identification of non‐coding genetic variants that are enriched in distal enhancers connecting to the promoters of HCC‐associated genes via long‐range chromatin interactions, highlighting their functional roles. Interestingly, CTCF binding and looping proximal to HCC‐associated genes appear to form chromatin architectures that overarch RNAPII‐mediated chromatin interactions. It is further demonstrated that epigenetic variants by DNA hypomethylation at a subset of CTCF motifs proximal to HCC‐associated genes can modify chromatin topological configuration, which in turn alter RNAPII‐mediated chromatin interactions and lead to dysregulation of transcription. Together, the 3D‐epigenomic analyses provide novel insights of multifaceted interplays involving genetics, epigenetics, and chromatin topology in HCC cells.