bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ginkgols and bilobols in Ginkgo biloba L. A review of their extraction and bioactivities
Authors: Boateng Isaac Duah
Published: May 2023

Ginkgo biloba (GB) has enormous bioactives with anti‐bacterial, anti‐oxidant, anti‐cancer, and immune‐stimulating properties, with global sales exceeding $10 billion. The terpene trilactones (ginkgolides A, B, and C) and flavonoids (mostly quercetin, isorhamnetin, and kaempferol) have received the most significant focus in GB research to date, whereas other bioactive compounds such as ginkgols and bilobols with various bioactivities such as anti‐viral, anti‐oxidant, and anti‐tumor actions have received less attention. Therefore, for the first time, this review focused on GB ginkgols, bilobols extraction, and bioactivities. This review showed that petroleum ether and acetone extraction had successfully extracted ginkgols and bilobols. Furthermore, bioactivities such as anti‐tumor activity and so on have been demonstrated for ginkgols, and bilobols, providing theoretical justification for ginkgols and bilobol as raw material for nutraceuticals, functional foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmeceuticals. Future research could look into other biological applications (such as anti‐oxidant, antitoxins, anti‐radiation, anti‐microbial, and antiparasite) and their applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and nutraceutical industries. Besides, the primary research should be on developing green and effective methods for preparing ginkgols and bilobols and fully utilizing their pharmacological activity. This will also provide a new avenue for efficiently utilizing these bioactive compounds.
Educational interventions involving physical manipulatives for improving children's learning and development: A scoping review
Authors: Byrne Elizabeth M. , Jensen Hanne , Thomsen Bo Stjerne , Ramchandani Paul G.
Published: May 2023

Physical manipulatives (PMs) are concrete objects used during hands‐on learning activities (e.g., building blocks, fraction tiles, counters), and are widely used in primary‐school teaching, especially during maths instruction. This scoping review collated studies that have examined the effectiveness of educational PM interventions with pre‐primary and primary‐age children. A total of 102 studies met the inclusion criteria and were synthesised in the review. Most studies included a sample of children aged 4–6 years and were conducted in a school setting. They spanned 26 different countries, but almost all took place in high‐ or middle‐income contexts, mainly in the USA. Interventions were grouped into three main learning domains: maths, literacy and science. Considerable heterogeneity was identified across the review studies in terms of the PMs and hands‐on activities used (e.g., block building, shape sorting, paper folding, enactment with figurines). Evidence relating to effectiveness of the intervention programmes was synthesised, with the most promising findings identified in the maths domain. Benefits to children's spatial, literacy and science skills were also reported. Overall, however, the evidence was mixed: other studies found that PMs were not associated with learning benefits, and many were hindered by methodological shortcomings. This calls for caution when drawing conclusions about the overall effectiveness of PM interventions. Nevertheless, the findings illustrate the many ways hands‐on PM activities can be incorporated into children's early learning experiences. Recommendations for further research and for using PMs in practice are made.

Context and implications

Rationale for this study

Physical manipulatives (PMs) are used during hands‐on learning activities and promote children's active involvement in learning. The review sought to map a broad range of interventions using PMs.

Why the new findings matter

Findings reveal gaps in the research and highlight the many facets to consider when developing and testing educational interventions using PMs.

Implications for practitioners

Recommendations for using PMs in practice: (a) choose materials and activities that are age‐appropriate and focused on the learning goal; (b) consider the type and amount of instructional guidance needed (adjusted based on learning content and children's needs); and (c) consider the level of physical interaction afforded by PMs and activities and its importance for the learning goal.
AI‐enabled farm‐friendly automatic machine for washing, image‐based sorting, and weight grading of citrus fruits: Design optimization, performance evaluation, and ergonomic assessment
Authors: Chakraborty Subir Kumar , Subeesh A. , Potdar Rahul , Chandel Narendra Singh , Jat Dilip , Dubey Kumkum , Shelake Pramod
Published: May 2023

The modernization of postharvest operations and penetration of emerging technologies in horticultural processing have provided intelligent solutions for reducing postharvest losses. Work environmental and occupational health issues require immediate attention as the awkward posture and continuous drudgery‐prone on‐farm sorting and grading activities may lead to musculoskeletal disorders. The main objective of this study was to develop an automatic farm‐friendly machine for real‐time citrus fruit washing, image‐based sorting, and weight grading; designed optimally and equipped with an embedded system comprising a lightweight convolutional neural network (CNN) model. Also included in this study was a thorough ergonomic assessment of the developed machine in a real work environment. The parametric choice of the fruit washing and singulation system was performed by employing computational fluid dynamics modeling and response surface methodology designed optimization. It was observed that under steady‐state conditions, the water jet would arrive at a velocity of 11.36 m/s which would eventually suit a singulation conveyor with a slope of 25°. A noninvasive grading and sorting approach for citrus fruits is presented in this paper that leverages deep learning to classify the fruits into “accept” and “reject” classes. The custom lightweight CNN model “SortNet” has shown excellent classification results with an overall accuracy of 97.6%. The ergonomic evaluation shows that the average body part discomfort score in case of operating an automatic fruit grading machine was much lower (12.3 ± 2.0) than the traditional method (30.9 ± 3.3). Further, in the case of machine operation, the percentage load on the muscles ranged from 28.67 to 34.31 reflecting that subjects can work for longer duration on the machine without fatigue as compared with the traditional manual operation.
Epitaxial growth of Zn‐rich (Mg,Zn)O thin films on MgO substrates with different surface orientations
Authors: Deng Tielong , Chen Zekai , Li Yaping , Zhang Biwen , Wang Hui‐Qiong , Wang Jia‐Ou , Wu Rui , Zhan Huahan , Kang Junyong
Published: May 2023

(Mg,Zn)O films with various growth orientations were prepared on the MgO substrates with different surface structures using oxygen plasma‐assisted molecular beam epitaxy. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) revealed that the crystallographic orientation of (Mg,Zn)O thin films transforms from the polar c‐plane (0001) to a two‐fold‐symmetry inclined plane and then to the nonpolar m‐plane (10–10) as the substrate template changes from MgO(111) to MgO(011) and then to MgO(001). In addition, the surface topography and film roughness were monitored by atomic force microscopy. Interestingly, the electronic structures of the three films exhibited orientation‐dependent features, as revealed by synchrotron‐based X‐ray absorption spectroscopy. In addition, all of the (Mg,Zn)O thin films showed high optical transmittance (over 85%, 400–800 nm) and large energy gaps (around 3.33 eV). Our systematic study of the substrate‐influenced film characteristics demonstrates a method of tailoring thin films using the same substrate with different crystallographic orientations.
GO Treated with Aminoethyl‐Piperazine as a Reusable and Eco‐friendly Organocatalyst for Synthesis of Some Xanthen and Pyran Derivatives
Authors: Amiri‐Zirtol Leila , Khabnadideh Soghra
Published: May 2023

Graphene Oxide (GO) containing 1‐(2‐aminoethyl) piperazine as a reusable, highly efficient and heterogeneous organocatalyst was prepared using a simple and green way. Epoxide groups on the surface of GO layers were replaced with 1‐(2‐aminoethyl) piperazine by an easy and green technique in a mild condition. The prepared catalyst (GO‐A.P.) was characterized using diverse microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. The presence of organic functional groups on the surface of GO‐A.P. was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectroscopy. X‐ray diffraction analysis showed an increase in the catalyst's interlayer spaces which confirm the successful presence of 1‐(2‐aminoethyl) piperazine molecules on the GO surface. Also interaction between the organic molecules and GO was established by thermogravimetric analysis via weight loss steps. Then, the capability of this catalyst was evaluated in a three‐component coupling reaction for one‐pot synthesis of 12‐aryl‐8,9,10,12‐tetrahydrobenzo[a]xanthen‐11‐one (A1–A7) and also 2‐amino‐4H‐pyrans (B1–B8) derivatives. The target products were obtained in high isolated yields. Furthermore, our catalyst was reusable at least for 5 runs with no significant decrease in its activity.
A Highly Stable Graphene‐Based Metal Oxide Nano Enzyme with the Peroxidase‐Mimetic Activity for Equipment‐Free Diagnosis of Diabetic Patients
Authors: Salarizadeh Navvabeh , Foroutan Kalurazi Ali , Shahangian S. Shirin , Hadipour Elham , Rasti Behnam
Published: May 2023

Nanozymes are gaining attention as promising alternatives to natural enzymes due to their unique characteristics. In this study, CuO nanoparticles were decorated on three‐dimensional nitrogen‐doped graphene‐based frameworks (CuO/3D(N)GFs) were prepared through a facile hydrothermal process. The prepared nanocomposite was characterized using XRD, EDX, FTIR, and SEM to determine its structure, composition, and morphology. The CuO/3D(N)GFs showed excellent peroxidase mimetic activity, followed Michaelis‐Menten kinetics, and exhibited better kinetic parameters (Km and Vmax) for H2O2 substrate than the natural enzyme, making it a superior catalyst. A rapid and facile colorimetric platform was developed to diagnose diabetes with the naked eye by coupling the activities of the nanozyme and glucose oxidase. This technique can quantitatively measure the glucose with high precision in diabetic patients, with a linear range of 1–10 mM and good sensitivity/selectivity toward glucose. The highest peroxidase‐like activity of the nanozyme was observed at 30 °C, but it still retained over 60 % of its activity between 20–65 °C and showed long‐term storage stability. Therefore, the CuO/3D(N)GFs nanocomposite holds promise for catalysis, biosensing, and bioanalysis applications.
Selective one pot multicomponent green synthesis of 3‐[(aryl)(arylthio)methyl]‐1H‐indole derivatives utilizing enhanced Lewis acidic sites of Surfactant‐assisted ZnO catalyst
Authors: Sangale Vijay B. , Jagtap Rohidas M. , Mali Bhupendra P. , Gonnade Rajesh G. , Pardeshi Satish K.
Published: May 2023

Five different ZnO nanocrystallites (ZnO‐1 to ZnO‐5) were successfully synthesized by a surfactant‐assisted hydrothermal technique using various surfactants. All the ZnO nanocrystallites are thoroughly characterized by XRD, IR, UV‐DRS spectroscopy and FESEM‐EDS analysis. Among the synthesized ZnO nanocrystallites, the CTAB‐assisted synthesized ZnO‐4 exhibited a fine disc‐like morphology with a minimum crystallite size (23 nm). Subsequent to reaction optimization studies, the ZnO‐4 is utilized as an efficient catalyst for one pot‐three component green synthesis of 3‐[(aryl)(arylthio)methyl]‐1H‐indoles (4a–4p) via. condensation of a variety of indoles, aromatic aldehydes and aromatic thiols at room temperature in water. The single‐crystal X‐ray structure of 3‐[(phenyl)(phenylthio)methyl]‐1H‐indole (4a) is also been reported (CCDC 2170437). The Lewis acidic property of the catalyst‐supported probable mechanism is well proposed subsequent to pyridine‐IR studies of the ZnO catalysts. Indeed, CTAB‐assisted synthesized ZnO‐4 was found to be most effective and selective Lewis acid catalyst for the synthesis of a variety of 3‐[(aryl)(arylthio)methyl]‐1H‐indole derivatives in water at ambient temperature with merits like higher yields, lower reaction time, catalyst recovery and reuse.
The Key Features of Catechols and α,β Unsaturated Carbonyl Moieties: Interaction With α‐syn Hydrophobic peptide and Activation of Catecholamines Pathway in Cells
Authors: Monroy‐Moya. S. , Caballero J. , González‐Norambuena F. , Simirgiotis M. , Sánchez E. , Areche C. , Fuentealba D. , Cornejo A.
Published: May 2023

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder worldwide, and the treatment focuses on delivering L‐DOPA. In this work, we isolated and tested several compounds against α‐synuclein and the hydrophobic peptide 71VTGVTAVAQKTV82 including flavonols (kaempferol, quercetin, and isorhamnetin), isoflavone (genistein) and flavone (luteolin), and compounds with α, β unsaturated carbonyl moieties such as chlorogenic acid and the depsidone fumarprotocetraric acid. Most compounds inhibit both α‐synuclein and hydrophobic peptide fibrillization. Moreover, ITC experiments showed a Kd varying from 9 to 20 μM, and ΔH values vary from −1.94 to −10.5 among the compounds. Docking experiments showed the intermolecular interactions within the sites 2, 9, and 3/13 of α‐synuclein, and with the hydrophobic peptide. In cultured cells, the presence of the compounds showed that most of them can promote cell proliferation and differentiation. Considering that treatments for neurodegenerative disorders, including PD, is only palliative the evaluation of these compounds that can prevent the fibrillization of α‐synuclein and stimulate the catecholamines pathway is promising.
Functional Separator Enabled by Covalent Organic Frameworks for High‐Performance Li Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Ce , Li Wanzhong , Jin Yuhong , Liu Jingbing , Wang Hao , Zhang Qianqian
Published: May 2023

Uncontrolled ion transport and susceptible SEI films are the key factors that induce lithium dendrite growth, which hinders the development of lithium metal batteries (LMBs). Herein, a TpPa‐2SO3H covalent organic framework (COF) nanosheet adhered cellulose nanofibers (CNF) on the polypropylene separator (COF@PP) is successfully designed as a battery separator to respond to the aforementioned issues. The COF@PP displays dual‐functional characteristics with the aligned nanochannels and abundant functional groups of COFs, which can simultaneously modulate ion transport and SEI film components to build robust lithium metal anodes. The Li//COF@PP//Li symmetric cell exhibits stable cycling over 800 h with low ion diffusion activation energy and fast lithium ion transport kinetics, which effectively suppresses the dendrite growth and improves the stability of Li+ plating/stripping. Moreover, The LiFePO4//Li cells with COF@PP separator deliver a high discharge capacity of 109.6 mAh g−1 even at a high current density of 3 C. And it exhibits excellent cycle stability and high capacity retention due to the robust LiF‐rich SEI film induced by COFs. This COFs‐based dual‐functional separator promotes the practical application of lithium metal batteries.
Looking Outside the Square: The Growth, Structure, and Resilient Two‐Dimensional Surface Electron Gas of Square SnO2 Nanotubes
Authors: Scott Jonty I. , Adams Ryan L. , Martinez‐Gazoni Rodrigo F. , Carroll Liam R. , Downard Alison J. , Veal Tim D. , Reeves Roger J. , Allen Martin W.
Published: May 2023

Nanotechnology has delivered an amazing range of new materials such as nanowires, tubes, ribbons, belts, cages, flowers, and sheets. However, these are usually circular, cylindrical, or hexagonal in nature, while nanostructures with square geometries are comparatively rare. Here, a highly scalable method is reported for producing vertically aligned Sb‐doped SnO2 nanotubes with perfectly‐square geometries on Au nanoparticle covered m‐plane sapphire using mist chemical vapor deposition. Their inclination can be varied using r‐ and a‐plane sapphire, while unaligned square nanotubes of the same high structural quality can be grown on silicon and quartz. X‐ray diffraction measurements and transmission electron microscopy show that they adopt the rutile structure growing in the [001] direction with (110) sidewalls, while synchrotron X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveals the presence of an unusually strong and thermally resilient 2D surface electron gas. This is created by donor‐like states produced by the hydroxylation of the surface and is sustained at temperatures above 400 °C by the formation of in‐plane oxygen vacancies. This persistent high surface electron density is expected to prove useful in gas sensing and catalytic applications of these remarkable structures. To illustrate their device potential, square SnO2 nanotube Schottky diodes and field effect transistors with excellent performance characteristics are fabricated.
A Multifunctional Organic Electrolyte Additive for Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries Based on Polyaniline Cathode
Authors: Wang Meiling , Cheng Yingjie , Zhao Hainan , Gao Jingwan , Li Junpeng , Wang Yizhan , Qiu Jingyi , Zhang Hao , Chen Xibang , Wei Yingjin
Published: May 2023

The practical applications of aqueous zinc ion batteries are hindered by the formation of dendrites on the anode, the narrow electrochemical window of electrolyte, and the instability of the cathode. To address all these challenges simultaneously, a multi‐functional electrolyte additive of 1‐phenylethylamine hydrochloride (PEA) is developed for aqueous zinc ion batteries based on polyaniline (PANI) cathode. Experiments and theoretical calculations confirm that the PEA additive can regulate the solvation sheath of Zn2+ and form a protective layer on the surface of the Zn metal anode. This broadens the electrochemical stability window of the aqueous electrolyte and enables uniform deposition of Zn. On the cathode side, the Cl− anions from PEA enter the PANI chain during charge and release fewer water molecules surrounding the oxidized PANI, thus suppressing harmful side reactions. When used in a Zn||PANI battery, this cathode/anode compatible electrolyte exhibits excellent rate performance and long cycle life, making it highly attractive for practical applications.
Modulating the Interlayer Stacking of Covalent Organic Frameworks for Efficient Acetylene Separation
Authors: Wang Zhifang , Zhang Yushu , Wang Ting , Lin En , Wang Ting , Chen Yao , Cheng Peng , Zhang Zhenjie
Published: May 2023

Controllable modulation of the stacking modes of 2D (two‐dimensional) materials can significantly influence their properties and functionalities but remains a formidable synthetic challenge. Here, an effective strategy is proposed to control the layer stacking of imide‐linked 2D covalent organic frameworks (COFs) by altering the synthetic methods. Specifically, a modulator‐assisted method can afford a COF with rare ABC stacking without the need for any additives, while solvothermal synthesis leads to AA stacking. The variation of interlayer stacking significantly influences their chemical and physical properties, including morphology, porosity, and gas adsorption performance. The resultant COF with ABC stacking shows much higher C2H2 capacity and selectivity over CO2 and C2H4 than the COF with AA stacking, which is not demonstrated in the COF field yet. Furthermore, the outstanding practical separation ability of ABC stacking COF is confirmed by breakthrough experiments of C2H2/CO2 (50/50, v/v) and C2H2/C2H4 (1/99, v/v), which can selectively remove C2H2 with good recyclability. This work provides a new direction to produce COFs with controllable interlayer stacking modes.
Dissipation kinetics and dietary risk assessment of pesticides in/on citrus (mandarin)
Authors: Katna Sapna , Sharma Ajay , Dubey Jatiender Kumar , Shandil Deepika , Devi Nisha , Chauhan Avinash , Singh Brar Gaganpreet , Thakur Nimisha , Singh Shubhra , Sharma Sakshi
Published: May 2023

A supervised field trial was conducted to evaluate the dissipation pattern and dietary risk assessment of the pesticides, Solomon (recommended dose, X (63+147 g a.i./ha) and double the recommended dose, 2X (126+294 g a.i./ha)); spirotetramat (X dose: 90 g a.i./ha and 2X dose: 180 g a.i./ha) and indaziflam (X dose: 62.5 g a.i./ha and 2X dose: 125 g a.i./ha) in citrus (mandarin) fruits and cropped soil. Solomon and spirotetramet were applied as foliar spray at the fruit development stage and indaziflam was applied directly on to the weeds. Fruit and soil samples thus collected were extracted using a quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe analytical method for residue estimation, which was carried out using Gas Chromatography‐Electron Capture Detector for betacyfluthrin and High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography for all other analytes. Residues of betacyfluthrin reached below the determination level (0.05 mg/kg) after the 3rd and 5th day of treatment at X and 2X dosage while imidacloprid and spirotetramat residues reached below the determination level on the 5th and 7th day, respectively. Residues of indaziflam and its metabolites were not detected in any citrus and soil matrices. Dietary risk assessment calculated as hazard quotient and theoretical maximum dietary intake revealed the safety of the pesticides for human consumption after application of these pesticides on citrus.
Carbodiimide‐Fueled Assembly of π‐Conjugated Peptides Regulated byElectrostatic Interactions
Authors: Yao Ze‐Fan , Kuang Yuyao , Kohl Phillip , Li Youli , Ardoña Herdeline Ann M.
Published: May 2023

The front cover artwork is provided by Herdeline Ardoña and co‐workers at UC Irvine and BioPACIFIC MIP. The image illustrates a workflow for supramolecular assembly and disassembly processes accessed through a carbodiimide‐fueled approach that instructs the self‐assembly and hydrolysis‐induced disassembly of peptides bearing optoelectronically active units. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/syst.202300003.
A practical guide to the assessment and management of testosterone deficiency in adult men
Authors: Hackett Geoff , Kirby Mike ,   the British Society for Sexual Medicine (BSSM)
Published: May 2023

Testosterone deficiency is increasingly common and has significant health implications, but it can be challenging to diagnose and treat. Here the authors present a summary of a recent update to the British Society for Sexual Medicine (BSSM) guidelines on male adult testosterone deficiency.
Beware the 'hazardous waist'
Authors: Kirby Roger
Published: May 2023

In this editorial, Professor Roger Kirby, Editor‐in‐Chief of Trends in Urology and Men's Health, reflects on the problem of male obesity in the UK.
Doping of high‐valence metals and their electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction in metal/porous carbon composites
Authors: Zheng Ruiming , Song Zhirong , Chen Di , Feng Zhuo , Gao Junkuo , Khan Usman
Published: May 2023

Preparing high‐efficiency, durable and low overpotential electrocatalytic materials for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) plays a key role in water electrolysis. At present, electrochemical water separation technology has become the most promising sustainable hydrogen production process. The inherent hysteresis kinetics of oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is the key bottleneck of water electrolysis, which greatly restricts the energy conversion efficiency and practical large‐scale application. Herein, a facile method is developed to synthesize a series of trimetallic (Mo/Ni/Fe) metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs)‐derived carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) with various Fe content, and a Fe‐dependent volcano‐type plot can be drawn out for MoNiFex‐CNPs. The optimized MoNiFe0.4‐CNPs demonstrate superior electrocatalytic performance with a low overpotential of only 227 mV@10 mA cm−2 and excellent durability of 100 h. Its excellent OER performance is attributed to the synergistic effect of Fe/Ni bimetallic regulated by Mo. This work improved the catalytic performance of MOFs in the OER and proposed a new strategy for the structural design of MOFs.
Algebraic Topology
Authors: Jongeneel Wouter , Moulay Emmanuel
Published: May 2023

In this chapter we briefly introduce important concepts from homology theory and we highlight how some results from Chap. 3 can be understood through the lens of algebraic topology. This chapter accumulates in showing that the Euler characteristic can be understood by means of CW complexes, homology or intersection theory.
Topological Obstructions
Authors: Jongeneel Wouter , Moulay Emmanuel
Published: May 2023

Given the previous chapters on topology and dynamical system theory, we can now provide a consistent treatment of topological obstructions to stability and stabilization. In particular, we will see how the retraction theory from Sect. 2.2 and the index results due to Bobylev, Krasnosel’skiĭ and Zabreĭko from Sect. 3.5 cover most of the existing results, conceptually. The current chapter focuses on the obstructions themselves and the next chapter highlights potential solutions.
Sterile neutrino dark matter: relativistic freeze-out
Authors: Lebedev Oleg , Toma Takashi
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Long-lived sterile neutrinos can play the role of dark matter. We consider the possibility that such neutrinos form a thermal bath with a singlet scalar, while not being in thermal equilibrium with the Standard Model fields. Eventually, the neutrino dark matter undergoes freeze-out in the dark sector, which can occur in both non-relativistic and relativistic regimes. To account for the latter possibility, we use the full Fermi-Dirac and Bose-Einstein distribution functions with effective chemical potential in the reaction rate computation. This allows us to study the freeze-out process in detail and also obtain the necessary thermalization conditions. We find that relativistic freeze-out occurs in a relatively small part of the parameter space. In contrast to the standard weakly-interacting-massive-particle (WIMP) scenario, the allowed dark matter masses extend to 104 TeV without conflicting perturbativity.
Resolution of the LHCb ηc anomaly
Authors: Biswal Sudhansu S. , Mishra Sushree S. , Sridhar K.
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Due to the heavy-quark symmetry of Non-Relativistic Quantum Chromodynamics (NRQCD), the cross-section for the production of ηc can be predicted. This NRQCD prediction when confronted with data from the LHCb is seen to fail miserably. We address this LHCb ηc anomaly in this paper using a new approach called modified NRQCD, an approach that has been shown to work extremely well for studying J/ψ, ψ′ and χc production at the LHC. We show, in the present paper, that the predictions for ηc production agrees very well with LHCb measurements at the three different values of energy that the experiment has presented data for. Modified NRQCD also explains the intriguing agreement of the LHCb ηc data with the colour-singlet prediction. The remarkable agreement of the theoretical predictions with the LHCb data suggests that modified NRQCD is closer to apprehending the true dynamics of quarkonium production.
Emotionalität in der COVID-19-Krisenkommunikation von Behörden und unabhängigen Expert*innen auf Twitter
Authors: Drescher Larissa S. , Roosen Jutta , Aue Katja , Dressel Kerstin , Schär Wiebke , Götz Anne
Published: May 2023

Hintergrund

Zu Beginn der COVID‑19-Pandemie herrschte in Deutschland große Unsicherheit in der Bevölkerung und bei den für die Krisenkommunikation Verantwortlichen. Ein wesentlicher Teil der Kommunikation von Expert*innen und zuständigen Behörden fand in den sozialen Medien statt, insbesondere auf der Plattform Twitter. Die dort mit der Krisenkommunikation transportierten positiven, negativen und neutralen Sentiments (Emotionen) sind für Deutschland bisher nicht vergleichend untersucht worden.

Ziel der Arbeit

Die Sentiments in Twitter-Meldungen von verschiedenen (Gesundheits‑)Behörden und unabhängigen Expert*innen zu COVID‑19 sollen für das erste Pandemiejahr (01.01.2020–15.01.2021) ausgewertet werden, um eine Wissensgrundlage für die Verbesserung zukünftiger Krisenkommunikation zu schaffen.

Material und Methoden

Von n = 39 Twitter-Akteur*innen (21 Behörden und 18 Expert*innen) flossen n = 8251 Tweets in die Auswertung ein. Diese erfolgte mit dem sog. Lexikonansatz, einer Methode der Social-Media-Analyse. Es wurden deskriptive Statistiken berechnet u. a. zur Bestimmung der durchschnittlichen Polarität der Sentiments und der Häufigkeiten positiv und negativ besetzter Wörter in 3 Phasen der Pandemie.

Ergebnisse und Diskussion

Die Entwicklung der Emotionalität in COVID‑19-Tweets und der Anzahl von Neuinfektionen in Deutschland verlaufen in etwa parallel. Die Analyse zeigt, dass die Polarität der Sentiments bei beiden Akteursgruppen im Durchschnitt negativ ist. Expert*innen twittern im Untersuchungszeitraum deutlich negativer über COVID‑19 als Behörden. Behörden kommunizieren in der zweiten Phase nahe der Neutralitätslinie, also weder ausgeprägt positiv noch negativ.
Bridging the gap between design and manufacturing specifications for non-rigid parts using the influence coefficient method
Authors: Maltauro Mattia , Passarotto Gianluca , Concheri Gianmaria , Meneghello Roberto
Published: May 2023

The manufacturing process may lead non-rigid parts to endure large deformations which could be reduced during assembly. The manufacturing specifications of the single parts should refer to their free state or “as manufactured” state; the functional specifications should instead address the “as assembled” state. Therefore, a functional geometrical inspection requires dedicated fixtures to bring the parts in “as assembled” state. In this paper, through a linearized model that considers fixturing and elastic spring-back, we aim to correlate the functional specification to the manufacturing specifications. The model suggests a hybrid approach called “restricted skin model” that allows to reduce the degrees of freedom considering the form error when relevant. Firstly, the framework is verified in a mono-dimensional test case. Subsequently, it is verified including FEM simulation and actual measurement for two simple assemblies. The results show that the model can correctly interpret the theoretical assembly behaviour for actual applications. The use of the “restricted skin model” approach shows a negligible difference when compared to full FEM simulation with differences of 2.1 · 10−7 mm for traslations and 6.0 · 10−3 deg for rotations. The comparison with actual measurement values showed an error of ±0.2 mm at the assembly features. Furthermore, the linearized model allows a possible real-time application during production that enables to adjust manufacturing specification limits in case of process drifting.
Hidden threat lurking in extensive hand hygiene during the Covid-19 pandemic: investigation of sensitizing molecules in gel products by hyphenated chromatography techniques
Authors: Salerno Tania M. G. , Trovato Emanuela , Cafeo Giovanna , Vento Federica , Zoccali Mariosimone , Donato Paola , Dugo Paola , Mondello Luigi
Published: May 2023

During the Covid-19 pandemic, health agencies worldwide have recommended frequent handwashing and sanitizing. A variety of hand gel products were made available on the market, often with fragrances added to curtail the strong smell of alcohol. Commonly used Citrus fragrances contain volatile aroma constituents and non-volatile oxygen heterocyclic compounds (OHCs), consisting mostly of polymethoxyflavones, coumarins, and furocoumarins. The latter have long been investigated for their phototoxic properties, and their safety as cosmetic product ingredients has been debated recurrently. To this concern, twelve commercial Citrus-scented products were investigated in this study. An extraction method was optimized for thirty-seven OHC compounds, obtaining absolute mean recovery values in the 73.5–116% range with only few milliliters of solvent consumption. Analysis by ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry detection evidenced that three samples did not conform to the labeling requirements for fragrance allergens (coumarin) laid down by the European Union Regulation on Cosmetic Products. The total furocoumarin (FC) content of the samples investigated was in the 0.003–3.7ppm range, with some noteworthy exceptions. Specifically, in two samples, the total FCs were quantified as 89 and 219 ppm, thus exceeding the safe limits recommended up to a factor of 15. Finally, the consistency of the volatile fingerprint attained by gas chromatography allowed drawing conclusions on the authenticity of the Citrus fragrances labeled, and several products did not conform to the information reported on the label concerning the presence of essential oils. Besides the issue of product authenticity, analytical tools and regulatory actions for widespread testing of hand hygiene products are urgent, to protect consumers’ health and safety.

Graphical Abstract
Depression in brain tumor patients—early detection and screening
Authors: Finze Alida , Deleanu Laura , Weiss Christel , Ratliff Miriam , Seiz-Rosenhagen Marcel
Published: May 2023

Background

Depres
sion is reported in up to 90% of cancer patients but to this date, a standardized screening tool for depression specifically modified for patients diagnosed with brain tumors is lacking. Thus, this study aims to develop an adapted screening tool and identify a suitable time slot for screening.

Methods

Sixty-one patients with brain lesions were interviewed prior to neurosurgical resection. For screening purposes, established depression scores were used. A study-specific questionnaire (SSQ) was developed based on patient interviews prior to the trial. Two subgroups were analyzed: patients with benign and patients with malignant tumors (including brain metastases). As a subgroup within malignant lesions, patients with glioblastoma (GBM) were also analyzed separately.

Results

Of patients, 87.5% with GBM presented with results > 16 points on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) after surgery. A decline in patients with benign brain tumors (p = 0.0058) and an increase in patients with malignant tumors (p = 0.0491) could be shown over time for CES-D scores. In this study, we established a new prototype screening tool for depression. In patients diagnosed with GBM, the number of patients needed to screen for identification of symptoms of depression was 1.59. Best time for screening was 35 days after surgery.

Conclusions

Considering the high prevalence and low number needed to screen of depression in patients diagnosed with GBM, we strongly encourage their routine screening during follow-up appointments (35 days after surgery). We encourage a plan to further establish the questionnaire developed in this pilot study.
Die psychoanalytische Ausbildungssupervision – zwischen institutioneller Undurchsichtigkeit, analytischer Neugier und generativem Impuls
Authors: Grünewald-Zemsch G.
Published: May 2023

Die psychoanalytische Ausbildungssupervisionsbeziehung beinhaltet neben der rationalen Erwachsenenbildungssituation eine deutlich emotionale Komponente: psychoanalytische Erfahrungsqualitäten wie projektive Aspekte, das Auftauchen, Erkennen und Bearbeiten von unbewusstem Material aufseiten von Supervisand*in und Supervisor*in, die Bewältigung von Nichtverstehen usw. Zunächst anhand einer verdichteten Fallvignette und an der Beschreibung der Konfliktpotentiale in der Ausbildungssupervision soll gezeigt werden, dass dieser eine zentrale Bedeutung in der Ausbildung zukommt und ihre Weiterentwicklung viel zur Generativität der institutionellen psychoanalytischen Ausbildung beitragen kann.
Modeling the social determinants of resilience in health professions students: impact on psychological adjustment
Authors: Perry Ross , Sciolla Andres , Rea Margaret , Sandholdt Cara , Jandrey Karl , Rice Elizabeth , Yu Allison , Griffin Erin , Wilkes Michael
Published: May 2023

Stressors inherent to training and stemming from the learning environment are associated with high rates of burnout, depression, and mental health problems in health professions students (HPS). There is evidence that disadvantaged or stigmatized groups are particularly affected. These problems not only impact students after graduation but may also have detrimental effects on patient outcomes. Resilience, conceptualized as the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, has inspired an increasing number of interventions aimed at addressing those problems in HPS. These interventions have mostly targeted individual students and their psychological traits while ignoring social and structural factors that may enhance or undermine individual resilience. To address this gap in the literature, the authors reviewed the evidence for psychosocial determinants of resilience and proposed a model inspired by the social determinants of health literature and the “upstream–downstream” metaphor. In this theoretical paper, the authors propose that upstream determinants such adverse childhood experiences and socioeconomic and sociodemographic markers of disadvantage have a direct effect on psychological adjustment and an indirect effect mediated by resilience. Additionally, the authors propose that the institutional downstream drivers of learning environment, social support, and sense of belonging moderate the direct and indirect effects of the upstream determinants on psychological adjustment. Future research should test these hypotheses and gather evidence that may guide the development of interventions. The authors present their model as part of a comprehensive response to recent calls to action to address diversity, equity and inclusion in health professions education.
Feed the futureland: an actor-based approach to studying food security projects
Authors: Seay-Fleming Carrie
Published: May 2023

Critical development and food studies scholars argue that the current food security paradigm is emblematic of a ‘New Green Revolution’, characterized by agricultural intensification, increasing reliance on biotechnology, deepening global markets, and depeasantization. High-profile examples of this model are not hard to find. Less examined, however, are food-security programs that appear to work at cross-purposes with this model. Drawing on the case of Feed the Future in Guatemala, I show how USAID engages in activities that valorize ancestral crops, subsistence production, and agroecological practices. Rather than the result of macro-level planning—of either the New Green Revolution or a greener reform regime—I argue that nonconforming food security projects can be traced to individual actors and their interactions on the ground. I draw on an ‘interface approach’ (Long 1990), focusing on the lifeworlds of development workers, their interfaces with each other, and with the to-be-developed. Doing so reveals how food security projects are significantly shaped by the relationships and interests of development actors enmeshed in particular organizational and national settings. This research contributes a fresh perspective on the food security paradigm and its role within the ‘corporate food regime’.
Economic Booms and Recidivism
Authors: Eren Ozkan , Owens Emily
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This paper examines the impact of local economic activity on criminal behavior. We build on existing research by relaxing the identification assumptions required for causal inference, and estimate the impact of local economic activity on recidivism.

Methods

We use the fracking boom as a source of credibly exogenous variation in the economic conditions into which incarcerated people are released. We replicate and extend existing instrumental variables analyses of fracking on how many released offenders return to state prison seperately from aggregate crime and arrests.

Results

Our instrumental variables estimates imply that a ten thousand dollar increase in the value of per capita production is associated with a 2.8% reduction in the 1-year recidivism of ex-offenders at the county level. Improved labor market conditions, specifically an increase in wages for young adults, may explain a non-negligible fraction of the reduction in recidivism associated with economic booms. In contrast, we replicate existing work finding that fracking increased aggregate measures of crime and arrests.

Conclusion

Increased economic opportunity appears to have a different impact of overall crime than on recidivism. This suggests that the relationship between economic opportunity and offending may be conditioned by local social ties. Further research examining how social connections and labor markets affect individual criminal behavior is needed.
Is higher education more important for firms than research? Disentangling university spillovers
Authors: Bonaccorsi Andrea , Barin Laura , Belingheri Paola , Biagi Federico , Sanchez-Barrioluengo Mabel
Published: May 2023

The paper is the first attempt to integrate microdata on universities and firms across most European countries in order to disentangle the impact of knowledge spillovers from human capital (graduates) and intellectual capital (codified research output) on the performance of firms. Data cover all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) registered in the official European Tertiary Education Register (ETER). Data on performance of firms are from ORBIS and refer to change in the 2011–2015 period in turnover, total assets, intangible assets, and employment. Firms are georeferred and the spillovers from all HEIs located at a given distance are summed and integrated. The findings suggest that, among knowledge spillovers, the creation of human capital via education of students has a larger impact than the circulation of research knowledge. Moreover, the two factors seem to be complements rather than substitutes. Spatial proximity is important for embodied knowledge spillovers (i.e. educated people), while for codified and disembodied spillovers (citations to publications) the spatial dimension is less relevant. The findings have important managerial and policy-making consequences.
Implementation Fidelity and Theory-Informed Dose Effects of a Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program for Native American Youth
Authors: Chambers Rachel A. , Kemp Christopher , Edwards Abagail , Rosenstock Summer , Lee Angelita , Pinal Laura , Cosen Etheline , Larzelere Francene , Tingey Lauren
Published: May 2023

In 2019, Native youth had the highest rate of teen pregnancy of all racial/ethnic groups. “Respecting the Circle of Life” (RCL) is one of the first evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention programs for Native teens and there is interest in replicating the program across tribal communities. To inform replication, it is important to consider process data including quality, fidelity, and dosage as these may all moderate impact of the program. Participants were Native youth aged 11–19 and a trusted adult. This study includes participants randomized to the RCL program only (N = 266). Data sources include independent observations, facilitator self-assessments, attendance logs, and self-report assessments completed by enrolled youth at baseline and 3 months post assessment. Data was compiled and summed by cohort. Dosage was number of minutes participating in activities separated by theoretical constructs. Linear regression models were utilized to assess moderation of the effects of the intervention dosage on outcomes of interest. Eighteen facilitators delivered RCL. One hundred eighteen independent observations and 320 facilitator self-assessments were collected and entered. Findings indicate RCL was implemented with high fidelity and quality (4.40 to 4.82 out of a 5-point Likert scale; 96.6% of planned activities completed). Dosage was high with an average completion of 7 out of 9 lessons. There was no association between theoretical construct dosage and outcomes of interest. Overall, this study indicates RCL was delivered with high fidelity, quality, and dosage in this trial. This paper informs future replication of RCL and provides support for hiring paraprofessionals from the local community as facilitators, delivering the RCL to peer groups of the same age and sex, delivering the RCL with short duration and high frequency, and encouraging youth to attend all RCL lessons, but continue to serve youth who have missed one or more lessons.
Dutch normative data of the sexual distress scale and the body image scale
Authors: Huberts Anouk S. , Peeters Noëlle J. M. C. Vrancken , Kaplan Z. L. Rana , van Linschoten Reinier C. A. , Pastoor H. , van der Woude C. Janneke , Koppert Linetta B.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Sexual health is an important contributing factor for health-related quality of life, but research in this domain is scarce. Moreover, normative data are needed to interpret patient-reported outcome measures on sexual health. The aim of this study was to collect and describe normative scores of the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS) and the Body Image Scale (BIS) from the Dutch population and assess the effect of important demographic and clinical variables on the outcome. As the FSDS is also validated in men, we refer to it as SDS.

Method

Dutch respondents completed the SDS and BIS between May and August 2022. Sexual distress was defined as a SDS score > 15. Descriptive statistics were calculated to present normative data per age group per gender after post-stratification weighting was applied. Multiple logistic and linear regression analyses were conducted to assess the effect of age, gender, education, relationship status, history of cancer and (psychological) comorbidities on SDS and BIS.

Results

For the SDS 768 respondents were included with a weighted mean score of 14.41 (SD 10.98). Being female (OR 1.77, 95% CI [1.32; 2.39]), having a low educational level (OR 2.02, CI [1.37; 2.39]) and psychological comorbidities (OR: 4.86, 95% CI [2.17; 10.88]) were associated with sexual distress. For the BIS, 696 respondents were included. Female gender (β: 2.63, 95% CI [2.13; 3.13]), psychological comorbidities (β: 2.45, 95% CI [1.43; 3.47]), higher age (β: −0.07, 95% CI [−0.09; −0.05]), and a high educational level (β:−1.21, CI: −1.79 to −0.64) were associated with the non-disease related questions of the Body Image Scale.

Conclusion

This study provides age- and gender-dependent normative values for the SDS and the non-disease related questions of the BIS. Sexual distress and body image are influenced by gender, education level, relationship status and psychological comorbidities. Moreover, age is positively associated with Body Image.
Assessing Sustainable Development of Deep Aquifers
Authors: Dietmaier Annette , Baumann Thomas
Published: May 2023

Deep groundwater aquifers are exploited for a variety of purposes. In general, impermeable rock layers protect these aquifers from anthropogenic influences. As such, they are a last resort for groundwater in a pre-industrial state, and a crucial resource in cases of emergency, such as floods contaminating shallow groundwater. The EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) provides the regulatory framework to protect its quality and quantity. Recent monitoring of the hydrochemical state of Upper Jurassic wells in Bavaria and Austria has shown fluctuations that were connected to new exploitation activities and might indicate an unsustainable development of the aquifer. We propose a new workflow in accordance with the WFD which uses clustering algorithms to assess these fluctuations. Our data consists of 5 to 42 hydrochemical analyses per well with yearly sampling intervals spanning up to 30 years. From the cluster analysis we derived thresholds for two corridors: Natural Range Corridor (NC) and Action Corridor (AC). While the NC represents a well-specific natural variation range, the AC hints towards unsustainable development and should trigger a detailed (re)assessment. To show the potential of the new method, the workflow was applied to two wells with different geological characteristics. Distinct fluctuation events were clearly recognized and can be used in the context of an early warning system, such that malign hydrochemical variations can be detected before they become legally problematic to well operators. Our workflow thus provides a novel, robust, and reproducible method to assess the grade of sustainability at which a well is exploited and ensures a good status of a unique and important resource.