bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Affects Crop Production in Pakistan: The Role of Agriculture Employment, Machinery and Fertilizer Consumption
Authors: Shakeel Muhammad , Hassan Najam ul , Chaudhry Kalsoom Akhtar , Tahir Muhammad Naveed
Published: December 2023

Labor abundant or under developing economies normally rely on their agriculture sector. The performance of agriculture sector depends on the production of cropping, livestock, fishery, and forestry sectors. The contribution of both cropping and livestock sectors in the agriculture production is almost 96.42 percent while the cropping sector contributes almost 33.85 percent during the fiscal year 20-2021 [Pakistan Economic Survey, 2020-2021]. The focus of this study is to investigate the factors which may influence the performance of crop production in Pakistan. For this purpose, bounds testing approach for the sample period from 1976 to 2022 is considered. The empirical results reveal that employment in agriculture sector, agriculture machinery, fertilizer consumption and urban population significantly boost the pace of crop production while the role of raw material imports is witnessed to be insignificant. The above reported results proposes that utilization of latest agriculture machinery, advanced fertilizers and high employability in agriculture sector may be encouraged to uplift the share of cropping sector in agriculture production in Pakistan.
O relacionamento bilateral Brasil-Paraguai: a construção de uma parceria em perspectiva histórica e atual
Authors: Santana Carlos
Published: December 2023

O artigo apresenta, em perspectiva histórica e atual, a evolução da parceria entre Brasil e Paraguai por meio da análise de temas que contribuíram para moldar o relacionamento bilateral tal como existe atualmente: pujante e benéfico aos dois países.
THE IMPACT OF ONLINE GAMES ON THE SOCIAL ATTITUDES OF CLASS III STUDENTS AT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEGERI 85 PRABUMULIH
Authors: Marina Meleniya  , Murjainah  , M.Taheri Akhbar
Published: December 2023

Online games are games that use electronic media in the form of multimedia which are madeas attractive as possible so that players can get something so that there is inner satisfaction. Theaim of this research is to determine the impact of online games on students' social attitudes. Theresearch method that the author uses in this research is a qualitative descriptive approach. Datacollection techniques use observation, interviews and documentation. The results of the researchshow that students are able to implement social attitudes, even though there are still those who use online games at school, they still practice various aspects of social attitudes, such as aspects of discipline, students are able to come to school on time, and students are disciplined by obeying the rules. is at school. Schools are expected to provide infrastructure that can improve students' social attitudes and the school can also direct students to more positive activities.
ANALYSIS OF INTRINSIC ELEMENTS OF THE NOVEL IN MIHRAB CINTA BY HABIBURRAHMAN EL SHIRAZY
Authors: Elvionika Hakiki
Published: December 2023

This research uses descriptive research methods. The data source used in this research is the novelette Dalam Mihrab Cinta. The data analysis technique used is descriptive analysis. From the results of the analysis, it was found that the intrinsic elements of the work consist of a calm religious theme because it discusses natural religious issues, the message conveyed by the author is in the form of a moral message that we should not slander people because slander is an act that is very detrimental to ourselves and others, the plot used in the novelette In Mihrab Cinta this is a mixed plot because the series of stories are interconnected with each other, the story characters are Syamsul Hadi' and Nadia. Other figures (extras) are: Pak Kiai, Burhan, Pak Bambang (Syamsu's father), Bu Bambang (Syamsul's mother), Nadia, his two older brothers, Pak Abbas, Silvie, Dalmayanti, Pak Broto, Della, Pak Heru, Silvie's father , Pak Anuar, Pak Utsman, Bu Heru, Doddy Alfad, Mas Budi, The setting of the novelette Dalam Mihrab Cinta is in several places, including, at Islamic boarding schools, at home, Central Java, Upper Semarang, Jakarta, at the mosque, Villa Gracia , Flamboyan 19, Flamboyan 17, in front of the house, at Kediri Police Station, Cipuput market. Setting time: noon, before Asr, ten minutes, ten minutes later, already one week, next week, that afternoon, one year, one month, one year, in the evening, Asr, Maghrib time, Sunday morning, end of last month, five o'clock afternoon, Bakda Maghrib, the next day, the last day of the month of Shaban, the holy month of Ramadan, after Maghrib, the 8th of Rahmadhan. The results of this study are expected to provide information and benefits to other writers in writing literary works.
BABA FAJA NË VËSHTRIMIN E DISA BURIMEVE BRITANIKE E AMERIKANE
Authors: Kaba Hamit
Published: December 2023

Përgjithësisht, klerikët shqiptarë janë treguar luajalë ndaj politikës,patriotë dhe mbështetës të pavarësisë së vendit, pavarësisht nga pozicionii tyre hierarkik dhe qendrave botërore fetare, nga të cilat vareshin.Pjesëmarrja e tyre në jetën politike të vendit ka qenë një fenomen jo izakonshëm, por sidoqoftë atë e kemi ndeshur jo rrallë në historinë tonë.Baba Faja ishte njeri prej tyre. Ai ishte njëherazi njeri i fesë, luftëtar ilirisë dhe figurë politike e ushtarake.
PËRKIME SHQIPTARO-MALAZEZE NË MESJETË
Authors: Xhufi Pëllumb
Published: December 2023

Milan Shuflay duket se ka dhënë thelbin e lidhjeve mes shqiptarëve emalazezëve në Mesjetë, kur pohonte se “Zeta dhe Shqipëria e veriutpërbënin një fytyrë biologjike të veçantë: ishin të lidhura me të njëjtëntokë plastike, me të njëjtin gjak ilir e me të njëjtat peripeci historike”1. Nëfakt, e gjithë kjo trevë e Ballkanit Perëndimor e ka përcjellur në të njëjtënmënyrë momentin kryesor të ndryshimeve të mëdha etnike e kulturore nëBallkan, atë të dyndjeve e të kolonizimit sllav. Historianë e linguistë tëshumtë kanë arritur në konkluzionin se, në Malin e Zi të sotëm dheakoma më në jug, në Shqipëri, kapërcimi nga antikiteti në Mesjetë nuk ukarakterizua nga përmbysje etnike, pasi me përjashtim të infiltrimeveperiferike sllave, aty masa dërrmuese e popullsisë mbeti e përfaqësuarnga banorët e lashtë, në radhë të parë ilirë.
NATHALIE CLAYER: “NË FILLIMET E NACIONALIZMIT SHQIPTAR: LINDJA E NJË KOMBI ME SHUMICË MYSLIMANE NË EVROPË”, Shtëpia Botuese “Përpjekja”, Tiranë 2009, f. 683
Authors: Krasniqi Memli
Published: December 2023

Libri i fundit i studiueses Nathalie Clayer me titull; “Në fillimet enacionalizmit shqiptar: lindja e një kombi me shumicë myslimane në Evropë”,është një vepër padyshim me disa të dhëna të reja dhe me analiza interesante.Kështu, Nathalie Clayer, në shtesën e librit “Epilog”, jep për mendimin tim,përfundime të sakta kur thekson, se forcimi i identitetit kombëtar shqiptar, u bëvetëm pas Luftës së Dytë Botërore, ndërsa, në Kosovë veçanërisht pas viteve 60të shek. XX. Por, përsëri duhet shtuar se ky proces i zhvillimit dhe forcimit tëidentiteteve kombëtare, nuk ishte karakteristikë vetëm për shqiptarët, por edhepër kombet e tjera në ish-Jugosllavinë. Kështu më 1945 pranohet ekzistenca ekombit maqedonas, ndërsa pas viteve 60 të shekullit XX zyrtarizohet kombiboshnjak. Gjithashtu, ajo me të drejtë thekson, se konfliktit i serbëve dheshqiptarëve gjatë viteve 1997-1999 ishte pa ngjyrime fetare, bile edhe atëherëkur sulmoheshin objektet e kultit të njëri-tjetrit, pra mbi të gjitha ky ballafaqimkishte karakter kombëtar.
SHAQIR VUKAJ: “RUSIA DHE KOSOVA (SHËNIME TË NJË DIPLOMATI)” Shtëpia botuese “Enriko Kuço”, Tiranë 2007, 671 faqe
Authors: Arifi - Bakalli Emine
Published: December 2023

Autori i librit “Rusia dhe Kosova (Shënime të një diplomati)”, Shaqir Vukaj, ka qenë deputet i Kuvendit të Shqipërisë në tri legjislatura të tij, ndërsa gjatë viteve 1992-1996 ka qenë dhe nënkryetar i këtij Kuvendi. Po kështu për një periudhë të caktuar kohe ka drejtuar Ministrinë e Mbrojtjes, si dhe Ministrinë e Tregtisë dhe Turizmit të Shqipërisë. Ndërsa në diplomacinë shqiptare ka dhënë kontribut për 16 vjet rresht: si ambasador i Shqipërisë në Bullgari, në Republikën Çeke dhe që nga viti i vlimeve të mëdha politike 1998 e deri më 2002, në Federatën Ruse.
Exploring the Impact of Public Policy on Media Governance and Societal Dynamics: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Kamau Simba
Published: December 2023

This research looks at the complex interaction between public policy, media landscapes, and governance. The goal is to develop a better knowledge of how policy decisions affect media content, the role of governance in defining media landscapes, and the public's views and preferences about these dynamics. Data was obtained from a sample of participants using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methodologies to investigate their opinions on public policy, media diversity, and regulatory frameworks. The findings show that respondents are concerned about the impact of public policy on media content, with a particular emphasis on the importance of openness and public engagement in decision-making processes. Furthermore, the study finds a link between media ownership regulations and perceived media diversity. Participants who saw stronger ownership rules also perceived greater media variety. These findings show the possible influence of regulatory interventions on media landscape variety. The qualitative study of interview transcripts sheds more light on the role of media in democratic processes, the problems brought by digital technologies, and the intricacies of media regulation. Participants stressed the significance of adaptive regulatory frameworks capable of successfully addressing the shifting media landscape and combating the spread of misinformation and fake news. The findings of this study add to the corpus of knowledge on public policy, media landscapes, and governance. The findings highlight the importance of inclusive and participatory methods to policymaking, as well as the potential benefits of various media ownership arrangements, and the ongoing challenges of balancing regulation with media freedom. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of these dynamics, policymakers, media practitioners, and scholars can develop strategies and frameworks that foster transparent, diverse, and responsible media practices in contemporary society.
The Estonian Folklore Archives as a Knowledge Hub
Authors:   Estonian Folklore Archives, Estonian Literary Museum, Tartu, Estonia, Hiiemäe Mall
Published: December 2023

The article focuses on matters both in Estonia and abroad that have influenced the establishment of the folklore archives in Estonia, ideological trends within the work of the archives, material coverage, and the development of the archives from an institution preserving collections into a research institution.
Performing an Archive: Aims, Interests, Ideologies and Expectations
Authors:   Estonian Folklore Archives, Estonian Literary Museum, Tartu, Estonia, Sarv Mari , Goršič Ave ,   Estonian Folklore Archives, Estonian Literary Museum, Tartu, Estonia, Järv Risto ,   Estonian Folklore Archives, Estonian Literary Museum, Tartu, Estonia
Published: December 2023

Public archives are repositories of human memory and history, which collect, preserve, and provide access to the records and documents creating a bridge between the past, present, and future. Archives are dynamic structures that can be interpreted as knowledge hubs, with channels of information flowing in them, activities performed within the “black box” of the institution invisible for outsiders, and channels to disseminate information for groups that they serve. These channels develop and are designed under the impact of several factors. In this article we present six factors that have shaped the development and functioning of the Estonian Folklore Archives. We first illustrate the impact of these factors, browsing through the historical periods of Estonian folkloristics. Successively, the articles of the current volume on various aspects of tradition archives are introduced and presented within the framework of the hub conception, and the relevant impact factors are highlighted. The article demonstrates that ideological framework, public expectations, institutional status, research paradigms, individual incentives of the people in charge, and (developments in) technological equipment constantly shape the content and operation of tradition archives in various time periods and circumstances.
Folklore Activities of the Lithuanian Science Society: Utopian Goals or Insightful Ideas?
Authors:   Institute of Lithuanian Literature and Folklore, Vilnius, Lithuania, Žarskienė Ruta
Published: December 2023

This article deals with two activities of the Lithuanian Science Society (LSS, 1907–1938) and the history of the folklore collections it accumulated. Its members encouraged people to record folk songs, fairytales, stories, riddles, and other forms of folklore, and they tried to gather in one place all the older manuscripts that contained folklore. This way, the LSS’s folklore archive was formed at the beginning of the twentieth century. In 1908, Eduard Wolter, a member of the LSS, made the first folklore sound recordings with a phonograph apparatus. The chair of the Society, Jonas Basanavičius, knew about the Phonogram Archives of Vienna and Berlin; therefore, he encouraged the establishment of such an archive in Vilnius. Another idea of the LSS, initiated by Mykolas Biržiška, was to gather all the songs in one place and to publish a national songbook. Unfortunately, these goals were visionary and utopian for this period of cultural development in Lithuania. In this study, the birth of these ideas and the path to their realisation are chronologically reviewed. The author discusses the reasons why they were not accomplished in the first part of the twentieth century, and gives explanations for why they were successfully implemented in the second part of the twentieth – beginning of the twenty-first centuries. The historical-political context as well as the actual digitisation of intangible heritage archives help clarify the process.
Object detection in optical imaging of the Internet of Things based on deep learning
Authors: Chen Rui , Hei Lei , Lai Yi
Published: December 2023

This article endeavors to enhance image recognition technology within the context of the Internet of Things (IoT). A dynamic image target detection training model is established through the convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithm within the framework of deep learning (DL). Three distinct model configurations are proposed: a nine-layer convolution model, a seven-layer convolution model, and a residual module convolution model. Subsequently, the simulation model of CNN image target detection based on optical imaging is constructed, and the simulation experiments are conducted in scenarios of simple and salient environments, complex and salient environments, and intricate micro-environment. By determining the optimal training iterations, comparisons are drawn in terms of precision, accuracy, Intersection Over Union (IoU), and frames per second (FPS) among different model configurations. Finally, an attention mechanism is incorporated within the DL framework, leading to the construction of an attention mechanism CNN target detection model that operates at three difficulty levels: simple, intermediate, and challenging. Through comparative analysis against prevalent target detection algorithms, this article delves into the accuracy and detection efficiency of various models for IoT target detection. Key findings include: (1) The seven-layer CNN model exhibits commendable accuracy and confidence in simple and salient environments, although it encounters certain instances of undetected images, indicating scope for improvement. (2) The residual network model, when employing a loss function comprising both mean square error (MSE) and cross entropy, demonstrates superior performance in complex and salient environments, manifesting high precision, IoU, and accuracy metrics, thereby establishing itself as a robust detection model. (3) Within intricate micro-environments, the residual CNN model, utilizing loss functions of MSE and cross entropy, yields substantial results, with precision, IoU, and FPS values amounting to 0.99, 0.83, and 29.9, respectively. (4) The CNN model enriched with an attention mechanism outperforms other models in IoT target image detection, achieving the highest accuracy rates of 24.86%, 17.8%, and 14.77% in the simple, intermediate, and challenging levels, respectively. Although this model entails slightly longer detection times, its overall detection performance is excellent, augmenting the effectiveness of object detection within IoT. This article strives to enhance image target detection accuracy and speed, bolster the recognition capability of IoT systems, and refine dynamic image target detection within IoT settings. The implications encompass reduced manual recognition costs and the provision of a theoretical foundation for optimizing imaging and image target detection technologies in the IoT context.
A deep learning method for drug-target affinity prediction based on sequence interaction information mining
Authors: Jiang Mingjian , Shao Yunchang , Zhang Yuanyuan , Zhou Wei , Pang Shunpeng
Published: December 2023

Background

A critical aspect of in silico drug discovery involves the prediction of drug-target affinity (DTA). Conducting wet lab experiments to determine affinity is both expensive and time-consuming, making it necessary to find alternative approaches. In recent years, deep learning has emerged as a promising technique for DTA prediction, leveraging the substantial computational power of modern computers.

Methods

We proposed a novel sequence-based approach, named KC-DTA, for predicting drug-target affinity (DTA). In this approach, we converted the target sequence into two distinct matrices, while representing the molecule compound as a graph. The proposed method utilized k-mers analysis and Cartesian product calculation to capture the interactions and evolutionary information among various residues, enabling the creation of the two matrices for target sequence. For molecule, it was represented by constructing a molecular graph where atoms serve as nodes and chemical bonds serve as edges. Subsequently, the obtained target matrices and molecule graph were utilized as inputs for convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and graph neural networks (GNNs) to extract hidden features, which were further used for the prediction of binding affinity.

Results

In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method, we conducted several experiments and made a comprehensive comparison with the state-of-the-art approaches using multiple evaluation metrics. The results of our experiments demonstrated that the KC-DTA method achieves high performance in predicting drug-target affinity (DTA). The findings of this research underscore the significance of the KC-DTA method as a valuable tool in the field of in silico drug discovery, offering promising opportunities for accelerating the drug development process. All the data and code are available for access on https://github.com/syc2017/KCDTA.
Cyborgs, Cloning and the Anihilation of the Self: dystopian discourses and fragmentation in Kazuo Ishiguro’s Never Let Me Go
Authors: Contreras Constanza
Published: December 2023

no presenta resumen
California Dreaming: Gabriela Mistral’s Lucid Cold War Paranoia
Authors: Horan Elizabeth
Published: December 2023

Gabriela Mistral’s boundary crossing strategized and anticipated multiply shifting dynamics druing the early years of the Cold War. Border-crossings prove relevant to the method of triangulation deployed throughout this study. As a method, triangulation draws from multiple kinds of measures, relating correspondence tointerviews, historical maps and photographs, survey data, consular reports and more. From this combination of theory, method, and sources a biographical narrative develops that is at once accurate (to compensate for an ongoing stream of poorly-edited, inaccurately transcribed or attributed materials) and an intimate reflection on Gabriela Mistral’s “paranoia” in post WW II era California. This study of Mistral’s life and work in California from 1946-1948 reveals her experience of borders as personally empowering within the consularservice, where help from nearby Mexico countered the hostilities from Santiago. Her condition as a mestizaidentified Chilean citizen with substantial international experience made her cognizant of the tensions along borders, which enhanced her understanding of race in the United States and Mexico. Harnessing the power of borders and her contacts with the media, Mistral effectively countered and undermined patriarchal and colonial power structures that sought to control and silence her.
422 Years of Fun: Theatre Review of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the “Jornada de Enseñanza de Literatura en Inglés 2012”
Authors: Gutiérrez Valentina
Published: December 2023

Midsummer Night’s Dream is a play written by William Shakespeare in the 1590s. Even though it was written several years ago, we cannot deny it keeps being as amusing, funny and surprising as it was, almost 422 years ago. Since it is a play performed all around the world, Universidad Católica de Chile could not miss it, and therefore, the past October 10th it was presented at Aulas Lassen, directed by Consuelo Gajardo, professor at the Letras department…
Photographs “Jornada de Enseñanza de Literatura en Inglés 2012”
Authors: Fuentes-Vásquez Carmen Luz
Published: December 2023

A photographic account of the “Jornada de Enseñanza de Literatura en Inglés 2012? that took place in October 2012 at the Facultad de Letras from the Pontificia Universidad Católica.
Shedding Light through the Fog: Ignorance, Truth, and the Imagery of Light and Darkness in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness.
Authors: Langarica Susana
Published: December 2023

From the outset, Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness is a novel in which the imagery of light and darkness plays quite an important role. The ideas conveyed through these concepts, however, are not at all one-dimensional or straightforward, which is clear when looking at the many interpretations that light and darkness give place to within the narrative itself.
Foreign Language Enjoyment, Linguistic Self-confidence, and the Oral Production of Past-tense Irregular Verbs in Online Interaction
Authors:   , Núñez Carmona Melissa Belén
Published: December 2023

The present study investigated the acquisition of the irregular past tense in an online setting through a positive psychology lens. Due to the learning and contextual needs of the participant, the pedagogical efforts of this research project were put on her linguistic as well as sociocultural development. The constructs involved were foreign language enjoyment (FLE) and linguistic self-confidence (LSC), which have been studied in relation to other sociolinguistic variables inside the classroom. The current study aimed to a) analyze an EFL student’s foreign language enjoyment while speaking to other English-language users through a video chat online platform and b) analyze the role of foreign language enjoyment in relationship to the oral production of irregular past tense verbs in online conversations. To achieve these objectives, a mixed-methods design was used in the context of a case study. Data was obtained from pre- and post-intervention interviews with the student, in which her FLE and LSC levels were measured as well as her irregular past tense performance, and oral interactions with other English speakers from around the globe through the HelloTalk language-learning app. It was found that the factors of the participant’s FLE and LSC were positively influenced by the intervention and that the accurate production of irregular past-tense forms is related to a learner’s LSC levels. This piece of research sheds light on ways of boosting L2 learners’ FLE and, more specifically, their LSC by using social-media-like language-learning tools for oral practice and real-life interaction.
Updates on Obstructive Sleep Apnea as a Risk Factor for Developing Diabetes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Alamri Fawaz Hassan , Alzu'bi Omar Mowafaq Ahmed , Hamdi Naif Hussain , Alhabib Mohammed Yossef
Published: December 2023

Background: Examining the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), diabetes, and diabetic complications is crucial because OSA and diabetes have become more common in recent years. In particular, we detail the contemporary and longitudinal research and give a thorough evaluation of the classical studies.

Objectives: To assess OSA as a risk factor for developing diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes (T2D), and to compare gender differences.

Methods: PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Science Direct were systematically searched for relevant literature. Rayyan QRCI was employed throughout this comprehensive process.

Results and interpretation: We included nine studies with a total of 45530 patients, and 25420 (55.8%) were males. People with OSA are more prone to develop diabetes. This risk was more prevalent in women and had a stronger correlation with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Although gender may have a major impact on this relationship in women, it is unclear whether the correlation between OSA and diabetes in the elderly is different from that in the young and middle-aged. Therefore, it is recommended that future studies examine possible causative relationships between OSA and diabetic complications, how treating OSA influences the emergence of these problems, and how age influences the association between OSA and diabetes. We think that treating these common comorbidities will improve diabetic patients' prognosis and quality of life.
Regulation of Wnt Signaling by Heterotrimeric G-Proteins
Authors: Najafi S. Mahmoud A.
Published: December 2023

Wnt signal transduction pathways play crucial roles in animal development, and after birth, they are involved in maintaining cellular and tissue homeostasis. Deregulation of the Wnt-mediated pathways occurs in many human diseases, including a wide range of human cancers. Many years ago, due to the topological similarity between Frizzled receptors and G-protein-coupled receptors, it was proposed that heterotrimeric G-proteins might be involved in the regulation of Wnt/Frizzled-mediated signaling pathways. Currently, there is a wealth of evidence indicating that heterotrimeric G-proteins regulate both canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways. This review article will discuss some of this evidence and the significance of this interaction.
Exploring Transformative Learning through the Analysis of Visual Representations in Applicative Teaching
Authors: Zagkotas Vasileios
Published: December 2023

As contemporary culture is constantly inundated with visual information, the imperative need arises to educate young individuals in the proper processing and beneficial utilization of this information. This article attempts to integrate the concept of transformative learning with the methodological tool of analyzing visual representations from the Grammar of Visual Design. The primary aim is to propose a new approach to the visual material used in the learning applicative, present results and discussions, as well as implications and suggestions for the scientific community. Using the painting «Landscape with the Fall of Icarus» by Peter Bruegel as an example, this article attempts to present a new teaching proposition, highlighting the semiotics of the image as a transformative dilemma.
Backmatter (Publication Ethics, Copyright Transfer Agreement for Publishing Form)
Authors: Istadi Istadi
Published: December 2023

Backmatter (Publication Ethics, Copyright Transfer Agreement for Publishing Form)
Artificial Intelligence vs Clinician Performance in Estimating Probabilities of Diagnoses Before and After Testing
Authors: Rodman Adam , Buckley Thomas A. , Manrai Arjun K. , Morgan Daniel J.
Published: December 2023

This diagnostic study compares the performance of artificial intelligence (AI) with that of human clinicians in estimating the probability of diagnoses before and after testing.
Unraveling Exogenous DNA Processing in Cas4‐Lacking Crispr Systems: A Novel Bypass Pathway Explored
Authors: Su Xinming , Jin Xiaoyu , Wang Zehua , Duan Shiwei
Published: December 2023

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated (Cas) systems are widely distributed adaptive immune systems found in prokaryotes. The process involves three main stages: adaptation, expression, and interference. While the adaptation stage has been extensively studied, there is still an incomplete understanding of the mechanisms underlying the capture, trimming, and integration of exogenous DNA. For instance, Cas4, a CRISPR‐Cas protein with endonuclease activity, is responsible for selecting and processing protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) sequences. However, some CRISPR isoforms lack Cas4 activity, relying on other enzymes for adaptive immunity. Recently, Wang et al. presented a novel model of exogenous DNA processing in a type I‐E CRISPR system lacking Cas4 in a Nature article. This model integrates protospacer processing into CRISPR arrays through fine‐tuned synthases formed by DnaQ‐like exonuclease (DEDDh) and Cas1‐Cas2 complexes. Their study introduces a novel model, shedding new light on the evolution of CRISPR adaptive immunity. This perspective comprehensively examines the fundamental process of CRISPR adaptive immunity, detailing both the classical pathway mediated by Cas4 and the alternative pathway mediated by DEDDh. Furthermore, a thorough evaluation of Wang et al.’s work is conducted, highlighting its strengths, weaknesses, and existing research challenges.
A pH‐Responsive Core‐Shell Microneedle Patch with Self‐Monitoring Capability for Local Long‐Lasting Analgesia
Authors: Zhang Aining , Zeng Yongnian , Xiong Bingrui , Jiang Xue , Jin Yinli , Wang Siyuan , Yuan Yikang , Li Wei , Peng Mian
Published: December 2023

Postoperative pain, as a common and significant healthcare issue, has always been the focus of attention in the field of anesthesia for its control and treatment. In the present study, a pH‐responsive microneedle (MN) patch is developed for sustained incisional analgesia after surgery. The MN patch has a 10 × 10 MN array within 0.5 cm2 area, and each MN features a complete core‐shell structure, with a needle height of ≈850 µm. Upon application, the MNs fully implant in the skin within 15 min due to the rapid dissolution of the water‐soluble backing layer. The acidic microenvironment at the surgical site (pH 6.8–7.0) interacts with the pH‐reactive medium in the MN shell, triggering the shell rupture. This process enables the smooth release of encapsulated local anesthetic drug (Ropivacaine, Rop) microcrystals, extending local anesthesia duration to over 72 h at a drug concentration of 100 mg mL−1. Additionally, the MN patch intelligently modulates drug release based on the postoperative pain behavior, which correlates with the pH value of the surgical incision microenvironment. This responsive feature results in a prolonged and personalized analgesic effect, addressing the limitations of existing invasive treatments in postoperative pain management.
The Effect of Flow Field on the Initial Formation of Thrombus in Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Meng Kuilin , Chen Haosheng , Zheng Xiaobing , Pan Yunfan , Li Yongjian
Published: December 2023

Thrombosis is the main reason for the failure of ventricular assist devices (VADs). It has been acknowledged that the platelet activation induced by the nonphysiological blood flow leads to the increased thrombotic risk. However, due to the complicated influence of the VADs’ flow field and the difficulty in real‐time in situ observation, the mechanisms and process of thrombus formation in VADs remain unclear. In this work, the process of thrombus formation in VADs in vitro experiments is observed. The thrombus is found to form on the middle of the inlet guide vanes first and it is mainly caused by the immediate activation of platelets induced by the high shear rate of the flow field around the vanes and also affected by the rotation of the impeller. Then, subsequent thrombus is found in the tail of guide vanes and around the axle journal, where the blood flow is stagnated and the platelets are activated by the accumulated bioagonists. These findings clarify that the thrombus formed on the inlet guide vanes and the axle journal are dominated by two different mechanisms. This work provides unique insights into the initial formation of the thrombus on VADs and helps to reduce the thrombotic risk.
Realizing Intrinsically Stretchable Transparent Electrodes via Silver Nanowires/PEDOT:PSS/Polyvinyl Alcohol Composites on the Polyurethane Substrate
Authors: Liu Ying , Xie Chengcheng , Lai Wenbin , Bu Zhonggao , Zhang Guangcong , Xiao Chengyi , Li Weiwei
Published: December 2023

Stretchable transparent electrodes (STEs) have garnered considerable attention as a fundamental architectural component in the realm of conformable and wearable electronics. This study presents a novel approach utilizing composite inks based on silver nanowires to fabricate STEs, with the incorporation of a conductive polymer as the leveling agent and polyvinyl alcohol as the bonding agent. The resulting STE demonstrates several desirable properties, including low sheet resistance (15.6 Ω sq−1) and surface roughness facilitated by poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate. Moreover, the STE demonstrates strong adhesive strength to various plastic substrates, high transparency (>80%), and remarkable stretchability of up to 100%. Notably, the STE exhibits exceptional thermal stability under thermal stress at 200 °C for extended durations of up to 300 min. As a result, flexible organic solar cells employing this composite STE achieve outstanding performance in terms of high efficiency, robust mechanical durability, and remarkable thermal stability.
Highly Accurate Estimation of Cell Type Abundance in Bulk Tissues Based on Single‐Cell Reference and Domain Adaptive Matching
Authors: Guo Xinyang , Huang Zhaoyang , Ju Fen , Zhao Chenguang , Yu Liang
Published: December 2023

Accurately identifies the cellular composition of complex tissues, which is critical for understanding disease pathogenesis, early diagnosis, and prevention. However, current methods for deconvoluting bulk RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) typically rely on matched single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) as a reference, which can be limiting due to differences in sequencing distribution and the potential for invalid information from single‐cell references. Hence, a novel computational method named SCROAM is introduced to address these challenges. SCROAM transforms scRNA‐seq and bulk RNA‐seq into a shared feature space, effectively eliminating distributional differences in the latent space. Subsequently, cell‐type‐specific expression matrices are generated from the scRNA‐seq data, facilitating the precise identification of cell types within bulk tissues. The performance of SCROAM is assessed through benchmarking against simulated and real datasets, demonstrating its accuracy and robustness. To further validate SCROAM's performance, single‐cell and bulk RNA‐seq experiments are conducted on mouse spinal cord tissue, with SCROAM applied to identify cell types in bulk tissue. Results indicate that SCROAM is a highly effective tool for identifying similar cell types. An integrated analysis of liver cancer and primary glioblastoma is then performed. Overall, this research offers a novel perspective for delivering precise insights into disease pathogenesis and potential therapeutic strategies.
Stacking Engineering of Heterojunctions in Half‐Metallic Carbon Nitride for Efficient CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Zhu Xingwang , Xu Hangmin , Liu Jinyuan , Bi Chuanzhou , Tian Jianfeng , Zhong Kang , Wang Bin , Ding Penghui , Wang Xiaozhi , Chu Paul K. , Xu Hui , Ding Jianning
Published: December 2023

Enhancing charge separation in semiconductor photocatalysts is a major challenge for efficient artificial photosynthesis. Herein, a compact heterojunction is designed by embedding half‐metallic C(CN)3 (hm‐CN) hydrothermally in BiOBr (BOB) as the backbone. The interface between hm‐CN and BOB is seamless and formed by covalent bonding to facilitate the transmission of photoinduced electrons from BOB to hm‐CN. The transient photocurrents and electrochemical impedance spectra reveal that the modified composite catalyst exhibits a larger electron transfer rate. The photocatalytic activity of hm‐CN/BOB increases significantly as indicated by a CO yield that is about four times higher than that of individual components. Density‐functional theory calculations verify that the heterojunction improves electron transport and decreases the reaction energy barrier, thus promoting the overall photocatalytic CO2 conversion efficiency. The half‐metal nitride coupled semiconductor heterojunctions might have large potential in artificial photosynthesis and related applications.
High Energy Storage and Excellent Thermal Stability in Ternary (1−x)[0.94(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3‐0.06BaTiO3]‐xCa(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 Lead‐Free Ferroelectric Ceramics
Authors: Kuang Haiyan , He Xiang , Oleg V'yunov , Pang Dongfang
Published: December 2023

In this work, a new type of ternary lead‐free ferroelectric ceramics (1−x)[0.94(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3‐0.06BaTiO3]‐xCa(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 is synthesized by traditional solid‐state reaction method (x = 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.10, and 0.15). No phase transition is detected and all ceramics exhibited the perovskite structure consisting of the rhombohedral (R3c) and tetragonal (P4bm) phases. By increasing the Ca(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3(CMN) content, the average grain size shows a slight change. More specifically, the grain size is 1.00 µm when x < 0.10 and then increases to 1.20 µm in x = 0.10 and 0.15. When x = 0.07, an optimum energy storage performance with recoverable energy density (Wrec) of 4.13 J cm−3 is achieved under an electric field of 340 kV cm−1. At the same time, it exhibits excellent pulse performance at 25 °C, with an effective discharging time (t0.9) of 3.2 ns and a discharge energy density (WD) of 0.61 J cm−3, suggesting a fast charging–discharging rate. In addition, the current density (CD) and power density (PD) are 92.31 A cm−2 and 6.46 MW cm−3, respectively. Overall, the 0.93[0.94(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3‐0.06BaTiO3]‐0.07Ca(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 ceramics is considered a competitive candidate for the development of high‐energy storage capacitors and pulse‐power devices.
Monolayer Mo1−x−yRexWyS2‐Based Photodetectors Grown by Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Liu Xinke , Zhou Jie , Jiang Zhongwei , Huang Zheng , Li Bo , Ma Zhengweng , Yang Yongkai , Huang Yeying , Zhang Yating , Botcha V. Divakar , Chung Ren‐Jei , Liang Jiehao , Li Xiaohua , Li Yu , He Wei
Published: December 2023

The utilization of alloyed 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) has become a pivotal approach for addressing challenges in material applications. The judicious selection of dopant constituents offers a potent means to finely modulate the materials' bandgap, consequently broadening the potential applications of 2D materials. In the context of an investigation, Mo1−x−yRexWyS2 is successfully synthesized using chemical vapor deposition. With a bandgap of 1.33 eV, this material exhibits promising prospects for application in the realm of optoelectronics. This advancement enables the fabrication of the Mo1−x−yRexWyS2 photodetector. The rigorous testing and analysis of photoelectric performance reveal significant improvements in both responsivity and response speed compared to analogous detectors. This accomplishment not only furnishes a novel paradigm for the advancement of photodetectors but also contributes fresh insights to the domain of alloyed 2D TMDs.
Molecular‐Level Regulation Strategies Toward Efficient Charge Separation in Donor−Acceptor Type Conjugated Polymers for Boosted Energy‐Related Photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Lu , Liu Linghao , Li Yan , Xu Yuankang , Nie Wenchao , Cheng Zichang , Zhou Qi , Wang Lin , Fan Zhuangjun
Published: December 2023

The development of efficient photocatalysts for artificial photocatalytic energy conversion is an intriguing strategy. Promisingly, conjugated polymers (CPs) have been actively investigated as alternatives to traditional inorganic semiconductors for photocatalysis due to their molecularly tunable optoelectronic properties, thus providing a great platform for molecular design. Incorporating donor (D) and acceptor (A) units into the backbone of CPs ensures an adequate D−A interface, which is essential for facilitating charge separation. This approach also allows for tunable bandgaps and optoelectronic properties, leading to significant progress in photocatalytic energy conversions in recent years. Here, the fundamentals of D–A type CPs for photocatalysis are initially outlined, followed by advanced experimental methods and density functional theory (DFT) calculations for investigating carrier dynamics. Then, a detailed exposition of the synthetic strategies for D−A type CPs is carried out. Their extensive applications in diverse energy‐related photocatalytic conversions, such as hydrogen evolution, oxygen evolution, overall water splitting, CO2reduction, N2reduction, and H2O2evolution are comprehensively presented. This review provides new and comprehensive insights into the molecular‐level design of D−A type CPs catalysts for boosted photocatalytic energy conversion, which is expected to further advance the development of CPs in photocatalysis.
Triggering Dual Two‐electron Pathway for H2O2 Generation by Multiple [Bi−O]n Interlayers in Ultrathin Bi12O17Cl2 towards Efficient Piezo‐self‐Fenton Catalysis
Authors: Wu Yang , Wang Peifang , Che Huinan , Liu Wei , Tang Chunmei , Ao Yanhui
Published: December 2023

Piezo‐self‐Fenton system (PESF) has been emerging as a promising water treatment technology but suffering from unsatisfied H2O2 production efficiency. Herein, we rationally design a Bi12O17Cl2 piezo‐catalyst with multiple [Bi−O]n interlayers towards highly efficient H2O2 production. The introduction of [Bi3O4.25] layers initiates dual two‐electron pathway for H2O2 generation by altering the interlayer properties. It is found that the additional [Bi3O4.25] layers not only enhance the polarization electric field but also serve as active sites for triggering dual pathways of two‐electron O2 reduction and H2O oxidation reaction for H2O2 production. Therefore, the Bi12O17Cl2 exhibits an ultrahigh rate of H2O2 generation (7.76 mM h−1 g−1) in pure water. Based on the adequate H2O2 yield, a PESF was constructed for acetaminophen (ACE) degradation with an apparent rate constant of 0.023 min−1. This work not only presents a potential strategy of tuning the activity of bismuth based piezo‐catalysts but also provides a good example on the construction of highly efficient PESF for environmental remediation by using natural mechanical energy.
Autonomic nervous system responses to social stimuli among autistic individuals: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zadok Ester , Golan Ofer , Lavidor Michal , Gordon Ilanit
Published: December 2023

Physiological responses to environmental and social stimuli have been studied broadly in relation to psychological states and processes. This may be especially important regarding autistic individuals, who show disparities in social interactions. However, findings from studies assessing autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses of autistic individuals present contradictions, with reports showing both autonomic disparities and intact autonomic functioning. The current study aimed to review the existing literature and to estimate if there is a difference between autistic individuals and neurotypical (NT) individuals in their autonomic responses to social stimuli. Furthermore, the study examined factors that may moderate this difference, including the type of physiological function measured, the level of participation required, as well as the age and intellectual functioning of the participants. The meta‐analysis revealed a small and statistically insignificant overall difference between autistic and NT individuals, albeit with high heterogeneity. A further nested moderator analysis revealed a significant difference between autistic and NT individuals in physiological response that reflects mainly a parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) activity. Another difference was found in physiological response that reflects a combined activity of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, but only for experimental tasks that demanded active participation in social interactions. These results suggest a distinctiveness in autonomic regulation of autistic individuals in social situations, and point to the PNS as an important study objective for future investigation.
Perceptions, knowledge, and practices related to oral health in a group of pregnant women: A qualitative study
Authors: Velosa‐Porras Juliana , Rodríguez Malagón Nelcy
Published: December 2023

Background

It is well known that the prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease is increasing in pregnant women. Dental care is mostly sufficient to prevent oral diseases and perform timely interventions. However, few pregnant women go to the dental office during this period due to a lack of knowledge. The perceptions, knowledge, and oral health practices of pregnant women have been scarcely explored and should be taken into account to propose positive interventions in this population.

Objectives

To identify and explore the perceptions, knowledge, and practices of oral health in a group of pregnant women in Colombia.

Material and Methods

Twenty‐four semistructured interviews were conducted in different areas of Colombia. The interviews were conducted via telephone, and the calls were recorded with the consent of the participants. The recordings were transcribed in Word® and checked for typing and transcription errors. The transcripts were analyzed using a hybrid approach combining inductive and deductive coding. The information was organized and encoded using NVivo12 ®software. We followed the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) checklist.

Results

Pregnant women reported having good oral health. One barrier mentioned for occupation (Job) was pregnancy. The appearance of the oral cavity has not negatively affected the relationships of pregnant women.

Conclusions

The pregnant women had good oral hygiene habits but did not receive dental check‐ups. Knowledge in this group was limited and diverse. The information given by health professionals should be standardized, and some beliefs should be demystified.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

In general, few pregnant women were aware of bleeding gums during pregnancy. Empower pregnant women to take care of themselves through regular dental check‐ups with the aim of preventing and treating oral diseases. Oral hygiene education and healthy nutritional habits should be intensified during this stage.

Patient or Public Contribution

The participation in the study included a semistructured interview by telephone with the prior consent of the pregnant woman authorizing her involvement and the recording of the interview.