bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical properties, nutritional value, and antioxidant potential of jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) pulp and seeds from Cameroon eastern forests
Authors: Kamdem Bemmo Ulrich Landry , Bindzi Jean Marcel , Tayou Kamseu Pamela Regine , Houketchang Ndomou Serge Cyrille , Tene Tambo Stephano , Ngoufack Zambou François
Published: May 2023

This work aimed to study the physicochemical, nutritional, and antioxidant characteristics of the pulp and seeds of the jackfruit collected in the East Cameroon region to reduce the malnutrition problems encountered in the said region. To achieve this work, we first administered a survey. We observed that 50 people from Bertoua knew the fruit among the 200 people surveyed. After that, the physicochemical characteristics and nutritional value of Artocarpus heterophyllus pulp and seeds from Bertoua were evaluated. Finally, the antioxidant compounds (total phenolic and flavonoid contents) and the antioxidant activities were evaluated through the DPPH free radical scavenging capacity, the ability to reduce ferric ions, and the hydroxyl radical scavenging ability using the aqueous, ethanolic, and hydro‐ethanolic extracts of these samples (pulp and seeds). Results (means ± standard deviation) were obtained in triplicate and analyzed statistically by the analysis of variance (ANOVA) at the 0.05 probability level. The results revealed that the jackfruit pulp has a water content (89.85% ± 0.49) significantly higher than that of seeds (60.075% ± 0.12). The pH of jackfruit pulp (5 ± 0) is significantly lower than that of seeds (6 ± 0). Jackfruit pulp had a carbohydrate content (54.39% ± 0.47) significantly higher than that of seeds (49.01% ± 0.43). The protein content of jackfruit pulp (18.35% ± 0.04) is lower than that of the seeds (21.66% ± 0.31). For mineral content, the maximum contents of K (848 mg/100 g ± 10.34) and Na (69.53 mg/100 g ± 0) were identified in the jackfruit pulp while those of Ca (132 mg/100 g ± 9.42), Mg (43.73 mg/100 g ± 9.12), and P (101.51 mg/100 g ± 4.02) were found in the seeds. However, all extracts possessed both antioxidant compounds (phenols and flavonoids) and antioxidant activities. In conclusion, the jackfruit appears to be a fruit that can improve the nutritional status of the populations of eastern Cameroon.
Unmanned aerial vehicle navigation in underground structure inspection: A review
Authors: Zhang Ran , Hao Guangbo , Zhang Kong , Li Zili
Published: May 2023

Many years after construction, a number of existing old tunnels and underground structures are deteriorating with time as evidenced by cracks, large deformations, water leakage and so forth, which usually require regular site inspections to record their structural deterioration by taking high‐pixel, high‐overlap images along miles of a tunnel network. For complex underground structures (e.g., long tunnels and large caves), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) may be adaptive in acquiring images at multiple heights and angles with low operational costs. So far, UAV underground structural health monitoring has become mature for open‐air surveying with rapid developments in robotic software and hardware. However, the UAV image acquisition for underground working conditions still faces a number of key challenges. This paper aims to provide an overview of UAV navigation techniques in confined dark spaces for geotechnical engineers, geologists, drone developers and other interdisciplinary researchers & professionals in the structural health monitoring field. It specifies the challenges for UAV application in underground space, mainly including lack of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals, poor lighting conditions, weak features and obstacle avoidance and then followed by strategic solutions. For example, in light of poor GNSS signals, the fusion of multi‐sensors (e.g., laser imaging, detection and ranging (LiDAR) and multi‐cameras) can enhance localization accuracy in low‐luminance underground conditions. To address obstacle avoidance, computer vision (CV)‐based navigation algorithms (e.g., deep reinforced learning [DRL]) enable effective navigation in complex 3D spaces, but their adaptability is limited by arithmetic power and pre‐training needs. The review of relevant previous studies concludes that further development for UAVs in underground space inspection may focus on operation in large‐scale geometric inspection environments, obstacle avoidance, features and semantic recognition.
The Two Faces of Carbenium Ions: Intermolecular Trapping of Prochiral Carbocations with Stereocontrol
Authors: Wolff Benedikt , Oestreich Martin
Published: May 2023

Carbenium ions had been suspected and subsequently shown to be key intermediates of a large family of cationic transformations. An enormous body of work is dedicated to their characterization and various roles in reaction mechanisms, e. g. the SN1 reaction. Far less attention has been paid to their engagement in asymmetric synthesis and indeed, the differentiation of the diastereo‐ or even enantiotopic faces of structurally unbiased, non‐heteroatom‐stabilized carbenium ions is a daunting challenge. This Review summarizes the approaches taken to achieve the stereoselective addition of nucleophiles to these fleeting intermediates, including recent advances where non‐covalent interactions and chiral counterions are employed to discriminate either side of a trigonal‐planar carbenium ion bearing three different substituents.
Gender leadership in gynecologic oncology professional societies worldwide
Authors: Cohen Adiel , Alter Roie , Meyer Raanan , Guigue Paul‐Adrien , Levin Gabriel
Published: May 2023

Objective

We aim to study gender representation among the different national gynecologic oncology (GO) societies' presidents over the past decade.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study examining the period 2013–2022. The leadership positions in 11 GO societies in the USA (SGO), internationally (IGCS), Europe (ESGO), Australia (ASGO), Israel (ISGO), Japan (JSGO), Asia‐Oceania (AOGIN), India (INSGO), Latin America (SLAGO), South Africa (SASGO), and Turkey (TRSGO) was studied. The proportion of leadership positions held by women was calculated and trends were evaluated.

Results

Overall, the average rate of women's representation during the study period was 26.4%, and for the different organizations was: SASGO 70.0%, SGO 50.0%, ESGO 40.0%, ASGO 30.0%, INSGO 30.0%, and IGCS, ISGO, and SLAGO 20.0% each, TRSGO 10%, and no representation of women in JSGO and AOGIN. There was a significant decrease from 2013 to 2016 (63.6% to 9.1%) (P = 0.009) in women's representation as presidents of societies. From 2017 to 2022, there was no difference in women's representation (ranging from 9.1% to 36.4%) (P = 0.13).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that women are significantly under‐represented in leadership positions in GO professional societies; however, in South Africa and the USA their representation in the last decade was close to equality.
Next‐generation sequencing of baseline genetic mutations and outcomes of eltrombopag and azacitidine therapy in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes and thrombocytopenia: Data from the SUPPORT clinical trial
Authors: Ramos Pedro Marques , Choi Jeea , Campbell Catarina D. , Wang Ying A. , Pallaud Celine , Dickinson Michael , Verma Amit , Mittelman Moshe , Platzbecker Uwe , Cherif Honar , Fenaux Pierre
Published: May 2023

Eltrombopag has been previously shown to be effective in reversing azacitidine‐mediated thrombocytopenia. This was further investigated in the SUPPORT trial, a phase III study assessing the efficacy/safety of eltrombopag plus azacitidine in patients with intermediate‐ to high‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes and thrombocytopenia. The results did not support a clinical benefit for the addition of eltrombopag to azacitidine. We investigated if the somatic mutational profiles in the patient cohort were associated with treatment outcomes. Based on the available data, we observed no imbalance in the mutational profiles between treatment arms or a clear association between identified somatic mutations and clinical outcomes.
The causal links between gut microbiota and COVID‐19: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Song Jukun , Wu Yadong , Yin Xinhai , Ma Hong , Zhang Junmei
Published: May 2023

Several studies have shown a possible correlation between gut microbiota and COVID‐19. However, the cause‐and‐effect relationship between the two has not been investigated. We conducted a two‐sample Mendelian randomization study (MR) study using publicly available GWAS data. Inverse variance weighted (IVW) analysis was the main MR analysis technique and was supplemented with other sensitivity analyses. Forty‐two bacterial genera were associated with COVID‐19 susceptibility, hospitalization, and severity in the IVW method. Among these gut microbiota, five gut microbiota (genus unknowngenus [id.1000005472], family unknownfamily [id.1000005471], genus Tyzzerella3, order MollicutesRF9.id.11579, and phylum Actinobacteria) were significantly associated with COVID‐19 hospitalization and severity. Three gut microbiota (class Negativicutes, order Selenomonadales, and class Actinobacteria) were significantly associated with COVID‐19 hospitalization and susceptibility, while two microbiota (class Negativicutes and order Selenomonadales) were significantly associated with COVID‐19 hospitalization and severity, and susceptibility. Sensitivity analysis did not detect any heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy. Our findings demonstrated that several microorganisms were causally linked to COVID‐19, and improved our understanding of the relationship between gut microbiota and COVID‐19 pathology.
Global entrepreneurship research and practice in the post‐pandemic world
Authors: Ratten Vanessa
Published: May 2023

Some people have forgotten the recent COVID‐19 pandemic, but for many, the memories are still vivid in terms of the effects of the health crisis on society. Globally, almost all parts of the world had significant changes made to their way of life due to the COVID‐19 pandemic, which included social and economic effects. Many countries closed their international borders for a long period of time, which had a profound influence on the degree of internationalization occurring within these regions. Owing to the need for social distancing, there were rapid changes to digital business practices and the resulting increased usage of online communication platforms. The aim of this editorial is to highlight how global entrepreneurship research and practice in the post‐COVID‐19 world have changed in terms of research and practitioner practices. This is important as we seek to progress society through positive interaction in the business environment. Suggestions for future managerial and academic practices regarding global entrepreneurship are stated.
LDLR promotes autophagy‐mediated cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer associated with the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Lei , Sun Yu‐Hui , An Ran , Cheng Rong‐Jie , Li Nan , Zheng Jian‐Hua
Published: May 2023

Autophagy is one of the underlying causes of resistance to many antitumor drugs, including cisplatin (DDP). The low‐density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) is a regulator of ovarian cancer (OC) progression. However, whether LDLR regulates DDP resistance in OC via autophagy‐related pathways remains unclear. LDLR expression was measured by quantitative real‐time PCR, western blot (WB) and IHC staining. A Cell Counting Kit 8 assay was employed to evaluate DDP resistance and cell viability, and flow cytometry was used to assess apoptosis. WB analysis was employed to evaluate the expression of autophagy‐related proteins and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway proteins. The autophagolysosomes and the fluorescence intensity of LC3 were observed by transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence staining, respectively. A xenograft tumor model was established to explore the role of LDLR in vivo. LDLR was highly expressed in OC cells, which was correlated with disease progression. In DDP‐resistant OC cells, high LDLR expression was related to DDP resistance and autophagy. Downregulation of LDLR repressed autophagy and growth in DDP‐resistant OC cell lines by activating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, and these effects were eliminated by an mTOR inhibitor. In addition, LDLR knockdown also reduced OC tumor growth by suppressing autophagy associated with the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. LDLR promoted autophagy‐mediated DDP resistance in OC associated with the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, indicating that LDLR might be a new target to prevent DDP resistance in OC patients.
Scoping Review onADCY5‐Related Movement Disorders
Authors: Menon Poornima Jayadev , Nilles Christelle , Silveira‐Moriyama Laura , Yuan Ruiyi , de Gusmao Claudio M. , Münchau Alexander , Carecchio Miryam , Grossman Steve , Grossman Gay , Méneret Aurélie , Roze Emmanuel , Pringsheim Tamara
Published: May 2023

Background

Adenylyl cyclase 5 (ADCY5)‐related movement disorder (ADCY5‐RMD) is a rare, childhood‐onset disease resulting from pathogenic variants in theADCY5gene. The clinical features, diagnostic options, natural history, and treatments for this disease are poorly characterized and have never been established through a structured approach.

Objective

This scoping review attempts to summarize all available clinical literature on ADCY5‐RMD.

Methods

Eighty‐seven articles were selected for inclusion in this scoping review. The majority of articles identified were case reports or case series.

Results

These articles demonstrate that patients with ADCY5‐RMD suffer from permanent and/ or paroxysmal hyperkinetic movements. The paroxysmal episodes can be worsened by environmental triggers, in particular the sleep–wake transition phase in the early morning. Occurrence of nocturnal paroxysmal dyskinesias and perioral twitches are highly suggestive of the diagnosis when present. In the majority of patients intellectual capacity is preserved. ADCY5‐RMD is considered a non‐progressive disorder, with inter‐individual variations in evolution with aging. Somatic mosaicism, mode of inheritance and the location of the mutation within the protein can influence phenotype.

Conclusions

The current evidence for therapeutic options for ADCY5‐RMD is limited: caffeine, benzodiazepines and deep brain stimulation have been consistently reported to be useful in case reports and case series.
A face‐centred finite volume method for high‐contrast Stokes interface problems
Authors: Sevilla Ruben , Duretz Thibault
Published: May 2023

A new face‐centred finite volume method (FCFV) for Stokes problems involving sharp interfaces is proposed. Two formulations, based on two strong forms of the Stokes problem, and using different mixed variables, are presented. Particular attention is paid to the symmetry of the resulting system of global equations, and a simple rewriting of the interface boundary condition is proposed to ensure that one of the formulations preserves the symmetry of the linear system that is usually lost when considering material interfaces. Four numerical examples are considered to test the implementation numerically by performing mesh convergence studies, in two and three dimensions. The examples account for discontinuous viscosity as well as the effect of surface tension. The results show that one of the formulations is less sensitive to the numerical stabilisation used in FCFV methods but does not preserve the symmetry of the global system, whereas the other formulation is more sensitive to the stabilisation, but preserves the symmetry of the resulting system of equations. The FCFV method appears as a promising alternative for the simulation of viscous flow involving internal boundaries on conformal meshes. The potential application of the FCFV method for the purpose of geodynamic modelling is discussed.
Interventions of choice for the prevention and treatment of suicidal behaviours: An umbrella review
Authors: Sufrate‐Sorzano Teresa , Santolalla‐Arnedo Iván , Garrote‐Cámara María Elena , Angulo‐Nalda Beatriz , Cotelo‐Sáenz Ruth , Pastells‐Peiró Roland , Bellon Filip , Blanco‐Blanco Joan , Juárez‐Vela Raúl , Molina‐Luque Fidel
Published: May 2023

Aim

This umbrella review aims to determine which interventions can be considered as effective in the prevention and treatment of suicidal behaviour.

Design

Umbrella review.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted of works indexed in the PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, ISI Web of Knowledge and Joanna Institute Briggs databases. The search covered works published from 2011 to 2020.

Results

The scientific literature shows that, in addition to being the most prevalent interventions in use, dialectical and cognitive behavioural therapies are the most effective in the treatment and management of suicide attempts and suicidal ideation. It is shown that the prevention and treatment of suicidal behaviour requires multidisciplinary and comprehensive management. Among the interventions that stand out the most are the promotion of providing coping tools, work based on thought and behaviour, and behavioural, psychoanalytic and psychodynamic therapies for the management of emotions.
Mechanical characterization of additively manufactured polymer composites: A state‐of‐the‐art review and future scope
Authors: Darji Vishal , Singh Shamsher , Mali Harlal Singh
Published: May 2023

The additive manufacturing (AM) technology can manufacture complex parts with considerable improvements in lead times and lower material wastages. It has enabled technological advances across many domains, from space to medical devices. The polymer composites fabricated through AM have tremendous advantages over conventional polymers in terms of mechanical performance and are, therefore, better suited for producing functional parts and assemblies. However, AM of polymer composites still presents several technological obstacles that prevent their full commercial utilization. These challenges include limited combinations of matrix and reinforcements, a requirement for hardware modification of existing machines, and challenges in mechanical characterization. This article attempts to comprehensively review the fundamentals and features of contemporary additively manufactured polymer composites (AMPCs) and examines current cutting‐edge research and development. This review highlights the gaps in the mechanical characterization of polymer composites fabricated through various technologies like material extrusion, vat‐photopolymerization, binder jetting, material jetting, powder bed fusion, and sheet lamination. There is a need to fill the identified research gaps to make AMPCs more appealing for widespread industrial use for advanced applications.
Doping nanocellulose crystal with poly(vinyl alcohol) for water‐resistant composite fibers with enhanced mechanical and dyeing performances
Authors: Lu Xi , Dong Wentao , Gao Zhiwei , He Changyuan , Chen Sheng , Yang Qin , Gu Yingchun , Yan Bin
Published: May 2023

Acetalization has been commonly adopted to realize the improvement on the water resistance and mechanical properties of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) composite fibers. However, acetalized PVA fibers only have a very low concentration of hydroxyl groups on the surface and thus have poor dyeing performance. In this case, hydroxyl‐rich nanocellulose (NC) offers a fascinating solution for improving the dyeing properties of PVA fibers. Herein, we developed NC/PVA composite fibers by wet spinning the aqueous mixture of NC and PVA followed with acetalization treatment. Compared with pure PVA fibers, NC/PVA composite fibers had a significant improvement of 36% and 53% in terms of tensile strength and elongation at break when the NC content was 10 wt%, respectively. More importantly, when the NC content reached 20 wt%, the K/S value of the composite fiber was approximately threefold greater in comparison to that of the PVA fiber, indicating that the dyeing performance of NC‐modified composite fibers was greatly improved. This work provides a simple and easy method to possess PVA fibers with excellent dyeing properties and mechanical properties, demonstrating the potential to realize the application of PVA fibers in more practical scenarios.
Multifunctional Iron‐Doped Hollow Mesoporous Silica Nanoregulator for Enhanced Tumor Chemodynamic Therapy
Authors: Ling Jing , Wang Bei‐Bei , Li Xia‐Nan , Zhang Rui , Pan Ling‐Feng , Zhang Han , Hu Ye‐Ting , Wang Shi‐Bo , Kong Xiang‐Dong
Published: May 2023

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) is a promising method that uses endogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to produce cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals (•OH) via Fenton reaction to kill tumor cells. However, the insufficient contents of H2O2 and the presence of glutathione (GSH) can significantly reduce the therapeutic effect of CDT. Herein, a multifunctional nanoregulator (3‐AT&MA@FHM) that combines Fe‐doped hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Fe‐doped hMSN, or FHM) with 3‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole (3‐AT) and maleimide (MA) are developed to overcome these challenges. After endocytosis by tumor cells, FHM part of the nanoregulator degrades in a mildly acidic intracellular environment and releases Fe3+ for CDT. The subsequently released 3‐AT serves as a catalase inhibitor to promote the accumulation of H2O2, while MA acts as a GSH scavenger to decrease the GSH content in tumor cells. This multifunctional nanoplatform simultaneously regulates the contents of H2O2‐the substrate for Fenton reaction and GSH‐the main antioxidant, resulting in a significantly enhanced CDT effect. Moreover, organoids are used for safety and toxicity evaluation. The results of organoids experiments showed similar trends to those of cellular experiments, but MIO is more resistant to stress than cells. This study is expected to provide a novel idea for the design of highly efficient CDT nanosystems.
Role of social structure in establishment of an invasive large mammal after translocation
Authors: Clontz Lindsay M. , Yang Anni , Chinn Sarah M. , Pepin Kim M. , VerCauteren Kurt C. , Wittemyer George , Miller Ryan S. , Beasley James C.
Published: May 2023

Background

Data on the movement behavior of translocated wild pigs is needed to develop appropriate response strategies for containing and eliminating new source populations following translocation events. We conducted experimental trials to compare the home range establishment and space‐use metrics, including the number of days and distance traveled before becoming range residents, for wild pigs translocated with their social group and individually.

Results

We found wild pigs translocated with their social group made less extensive movements away from the release location and established a stable home range ~5 days faster than those translocated individually. We also examined how habitat quality impacted the home range sizes of translocated wild pigs and found wild pigs maintained larger ranges in areas with higher proportion of low‐quality habitat.

Conclusion

Collectively, our findings suggest translocations of invasive wild pigs have a greater probability of establishing a viable population near the release site when habitat quality is high and when released with members of their social unit compared to individuals moved independent of their social group or to low‐quality habitat. However, all wild pigs translocated in our study made extensive movements from their release location, highlighting the potential for single translocation events of either individuals or groups to have far‐reaching consequences within a much broader landscape beyond the location where they are released. These results highlight the challenges associated with containing populations in areas where illegal introduction of wild pigs occurs, and the need for rapid response once releases are identified. © 2023 The Authors.Pest Management Sciencepublished by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Quality testing analysis of Ve‐degree based entropies by using benzene derivatives
Authors: Hui Zhi‐hao , Rauf Abdul , Naeem Muhammad , Aslam Adnan , Saleem Areesha Vania
Published: May 2023

A topological index, also known as a connectedness index, is a numerical characteristic of chemical structure that is computed by using its molecular graph in theoretical chemistry. In quantitative structure‐activity relationships (QSARs), which relate a molecule's chemical structure to its physical and chemical properties, topological indices are employed. The graph entropies with topological indices were inspired by Shannon's entropy concept and became the information‐theoretic quantities for measuring the structural information of chemical graphs. The theory of graphs is useful in determining the relationship between specific properties of chemical structures using different graph entropy measures. Through these entropies, many physical and chemical characteristics, such as melting point, energy generation, Henry's Law, and molar mass of chemical compounds, can be calculated. For this, the quantitative structure‐property relationship (QSPR) models are designed using ve‐degree‐based entropies to examine some physical properties of benzene derivatives. For the computation of entropies, a Maple‐based program is developed. The QSPR study is performed using SPSS and linear regression techniques. In this work, we have observed that the redefined third Zagreb entropy, the Balaban entropy, and the Randic entropy are the best predictors. The physiochemical characteristics, namely Henry's Law and critical pressure, can be predicted by Randic entropy and Balaban entropy, respectively. The redefined third Zagreb entropy can predict four other properties: enthalpy, molar mass, ‐electronic energy, and molecular weight.
Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis after lung transplantation: Two case reports and literature review
Authors: Kawana Shinichi , Miyoshi Kentaroh , Tanaka Shin , Sugimoto Seiichiro , Shimizu Dai , Matsubara Kei , Okazaki Mikio , Hattori Noboru , Toyooka Shinichi
Published: May 2023

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) affecting transplanted lungs is not well recognized. Herein, we report two cases of PAP after lung transplantation (LTx). The first case was a 4‐year‐old boy with hereditary pulmonary fibrosis who underwent bilateral LTx and presented with respiratory distress on postoperative day (POD) 23. He was initially treated for acute rejection, died due to infection on POD 248, and was diagnosed with PAP at autopsy. The second case involved a 52‐year‐old man with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis who underwent bilateral LTx. On POD 99, chest computed tomography revealed ground‐glass opacities. Bronchoalveolar lavage and transbronchial biopsy led to a diagnosis of PAP. Follow‐up with immunosuppression tapering resulted in clinical and radiological improvement. PAP after lung transplantation mimics common acute rejection; however, is potentially transient or resolved with tapering immunosuppression, as observed in the second case. Transplant physicians should be aware of this rare complication to avoid misconducting immunosuppressive management.
Whole‐body motion planning and control of a quadruped robot for challenging terrain
Authors: Lu Guanglin , Chen Teng , Rong Xuewen , Zhang Guoteng , Bi Jian , Cao Jingxuan , Jiang Han , Li Yibin
Published: May 2023

Quadruped robots working in jungles, mountains or factories should be able to move through challenging scenarios. In this paper, we present a control framework for quadruped robots walking over rough terrain. The planner plans the trajectory of the robot's center of gravity by using the normalized energy stability criterion, which ensures that the robot is in the most stable state. A contact detection algorithm based on the probabilistic contact model is presented, which implements event‐based state switching of the quadruped robot legs. And an on‐line detection of contact force based on generalized momentum is also showed, which improves the accuracy of proprioceptive force estimation. A controller combining whole body control and virtual model control is proposed to achieve precise trajectory tracking and active compliance with environment interaction. Without any knowledge of the environment, the experiments of the quadruped robot SDUQuad‐144 climbs over significant obstacles such as 38 cm high steps and 22.5 cm high stairs are designed to verify the feasibility of the proposed method.
Fintech and banks as complements in microentrepreneurship
Authors: Adbi Arzi , Natarajan Siddharth
Published: May 2023

Research Summary

This article studies fintech targeted to the base of the pyramid and its role in encouraging savings for microenterprises. We argue that the impact of fintech adoption on savings for microenterprises by the poor and by women is moderated by their access to banks—specifically, that fintech is more impactful with bank accounts, and this complementarity between fintech and banks is amplified for poor women. We develop hypotheses in the context of mobile money, a popular fintech across the developing world. Our arguments are supported by a sample of 81,345 individuals across 74 low‐ and middle‐income countries. Overall, the paper suggests that, although fintech can be a promising tool for the poor, it is equally important to improve inclusivity in formal banking institutions.

Managerial Summary

We offer an alternative to the popular narrative that fintech replaces the need for formal banks. In an analysis of 74 low‐ and middle‐income countries, we find that fintech is more useful in encouraging marginalized individuals to save for microenterprises when it is complemented by banks. Our finding of complementarity between fintech and banks, especially for poor women, suggests the need to rethink the notion that fintech is a substitute for banks. We suggest caution in drawing definitive conclusions about the unconditional positive impact of fintech. We recommend that policymakers continue driving financial inclusion with formal banking. Strategic entrepreneurs seeking to tackle grand societal challenges can utilize digital technology to capitalize on the strengths of established institutions.
Insight note: X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) peak fitting of the Al 2p peak from electrically isolated aluminum foil with an oxide layer
Authors: Lizarbe Alvaro J. , Major George H. , Fernandez Vincent , Fairley Neal , Linford Matthew R.
Published: May 2023

X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is the most widely used and important method for chemically analyzing and speciating surfaces. XPS has surface sensitivity (5–10 nm), is quantitative, and is able to probe the oxidation states of the elements at surfaces. However, during the past few years, a great deal of incorrect XPS data analysis has entered the scientific literature. Accordingly, efforts, including this Insight Note, are being made to provide tutorial information to the scientific community. Aluminum is a scientifically and technologically important element. Here we discuss approaches for fitting the Al 2p peak envelope from a sample of aluminum foil with a thin layer of oxide on it. Signals from the metal and oxide are present. We discuss methods for electrically isolating (or not isolating) the sample during data acquisition, the choice of the baseline, fitting the oxide peak with one or two synthetic peaks, and fitting the metal signal with two symmetric or two asymmetric peaks. The thickness of the oxide is calculated based on the areas of the oxide and metal signals.
Developing prediction models to estimate the risk of two survival outcomes both occurring: A comparison of techniques
Authors: Pate Alexander , Sperrin Matthew , Riley Richard D. , Sergeant Jamie C. , Van Staa Tjeerd , Peek Niels , Mamas Mamas A. , Lip Gregory Y. H. , O'Flaherty Martin , Buchan Iain , Martin Glen P.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

This study considers the prediction of the time until two survival outcomes have both occurred. We compared a variety of analytical methods motivated by a typical clinical problem of multimorbidity prognosis.

Methods

We considered five methods: product (multiply marginal risks), dual‐outcome (directly model the time until both events occur), multistate models (msm), and a range of copula and frailty models. We assessed calibration and discrimination under a variety of simulated data scenarios, varying outcome prevalence, and the amount of residual correlation. The simulation focused on model misspecification and statistical power. Using data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink, we compared model performance when predicting the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes both occurring.

Results

Discrimination was similar for all methods. The product method was poorly calibrated in the presence of residual correlation. The msm and dual‐outcome models were the most robust to model misspecification but suffered a drop in performance at small sample sizes due to overfitting, which the copula and frailty model were less susceptible to. The copula and frailty model's performance were highly dependent on the underlying data structure. In the clinical example, the product method was poorly calibrated when adjusting for 8 major cardiovascular risk factors.

Discussion

We recommend the dual‐outcome method for predicting the risk of two survival outcomes both occurring. It was the most robust to model misspecification, although was also the most prone to overfitting. The clinical example motivates the use of the methods considered in this study.
Dye‐linked Upconverting Nanophosphor‐based Ratiometric Chemosensor for NIR‐excited and FRET‐mediated Ultrasensitive Detection of Sulfide Ions
Authors: Kumar Jitender , Roy Indrajit
Published: May 2023

In this article, a NIR‐excited ratiometric method for selective and ultrasensitive detection of sulfide (S2−) ions in an aqueous environment is presented, which is reliant on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). The chemosensor‐design is based on an upconverting nanophosphor (UCNP)‐linked coloured complex between a rhodamine‐B derivative and stannous ions (RBD‐Sn2+). Under the excitation of NIR light, the green emission of UCNP (at 542 nm) is reabsorbed by the linked RBD‐Sn2+ complex via FRET, which in turn emits in the orange (at 582 nm). S2− ions specifically interact with the linked RBD‐Sn2+ complex and quantitatively bleach its colour, leading to reduction in FRET and consequent recovery of the green emission of UCNP. We investigated the quantitative and ratiometric detection of S2− ions in aqueous phase using this NIR‐excited FRET‐based approach. The concentration of S2− ions is quantitatively connected to the ratiometric emission signal under NIR excitation. We have found that the detection limit for S2− ions using our FRET‐based nanoprobe is around ten times lower than that of colorimetric or fluorescence‐based approaches. Owing to the use of NIR‐light as excitation source, our proposed sensor can demonstrate background‐free sensing of S2− in complex environmental and biological samples.
Optimization of Catalytic Bromination of Acetophenones Using Taguchi's Method
Authors: Jangir Nidhi , Sohu Saneha , Bagaria Surendra Kumar , Kumar Kartik , Pareek Kapil , Jangid Dinesh Kumar
Published: May 2023

A new, efficient and environmental benign one‐pot protocol for the synthesis of α‐bromoacetophenones has been designed via the regioselective monobromination of aromatic carbonyl compounds with Bromodimethylsulfonium Bromide (BDMS) in catalytic environment of MgO nanoparticles and products were obtained in moderate to superior yields. Structure of synthesized compounds were elucidated by their 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, further Taguchi based optimization is utilized to maximize the product yield using L27 Orthogonal Array (OA) constructed by five control factors including acetophenones (AP), BDMS, Temperature, Time and MgO with their three levels. The optimal level of AP, BDMS, Temperature, Time and MgO are found up to 1.0 mmol, 2.0 mmol, 60 °C, 50 Min and 10 mol%, respectively.
Single‐step conversion of levulinic acid to valeric acid over bimetallic Ni‐Co/H‐ZSM‐5 catalysts
Authors: Nagu Ajmeera , Raju Ajmira , Vennela Aluvala , Varkolu Mohan , Raju Burri David , Rao Kamaraju Seetha Rama
Published: May 2023

Single‐step conversion of levulinic acid (LA) to valeric biofuel is extremely promising for the development of bio‐refineries. Direct conversion of LA to valeric acid (VA) was investigated over H‐ZSM‐5 supported Ni, Co, and Ni−Co (different Ni/Co wt. % ratios) catalysts under ambient reaction conditions (543 K and atmospheric pressure) in the gas phase. Compared with supported monometallic catalysts, bimetallic Ni−Co catalysts exhibited more activity and selectivity toward VA production. Among Ni−Co/H‐ZSM‐5 catalysts, 15Ni‐5Co/H‐ZSM‐5 catalyst is optimum with 97.5 % conversion of LA and 63 % selectivity to valeric acid even after 6 h time‐on‐stream (TOS). The active metallic sites are responsible for the hydrogenation of LA to γ‐valerolactone (GVL), and acidic sites catalyze the conversion of GVL to VA. All the catalysts were characterized using the XRD, H2‐TPR, N2‐adsorption‐desorption isotherms, NH3‐TPD, Py‐IR, SEM, HR‐TEM and XPS techniques.
Study of ZnO‐coated Modified Hollow Microsphere Insulation Coated Fabrics
Authors: Zhao Tiantian , Zhang Xiandong , Chang Guangtao , Li Ruoxin
Published: May 2023

In this study, new ZnO/TEMs composites were prepared using the electrostatic gravitational method, which combines the high reflectivity of ZnO with the low thermal conductivity of TEMs to create materials with excellent thermal insulation and heat preservation properties. The initial test results indicate that the ZnO‐coated TEMs are effective in blocking thermal radiation from sunlight, with thermal conductivity of 0.0523 W/m ⋅ K for the ZnO/TEMs microsphere coating. In addition, the internal and external temperature difference of ZnO/TEM‐C 1200 is 7 °C lower than that of cotton fabric under an optical power of 350 mW/cm2. Moreover, the ZnO/TEM‐C 1200 has a UPF value of up to 1894 and a total solar reflectance of 81.40 % in the 200–2500 nm wavelength range. These findings demonstrate the potential of ZnO/TEMs composites for use in thermal insulation and UV protection applications.
Synthesis, Reactivity, and Anticancer Activity Evaluation of 4‐Amino‐3‐Mercapto‐6‐Methyl‐1,2,4‐Triazin‐5(4H)‐One Derivatives
Authors: Alshammari Nawaa Ali H. , Bakhotmah Dina A. , Gardiner Michael G.
Published: May 2023

1,2,4‐Triazine and its derivatives occupy a fundamental position in the field of medicinal chemistry because of their diverse biological applications, such as anticancer. To search for promising anticancer agents, a new series of 4‐amino‐3‐mercapto‐6‐methyl‐1,2,4‐triazin‐5(4H)‐one derivatives was prepared. Straightforward synthetic methodologies were employed, such as condensation, cyclization, hydrazinolysis, alkylation, and condensation‐addition reactions. All of the new compounds were characterized by a combination of spectral data and elemental analysis. The molecular structures of several compounds on a single crystal X‐ray provided confirmation. The anticancer activity was evaluated against three cancer cell lines, which are hepatocellular carcinoma (HEPG‐2), colorectal carcinoma (HCT‐116) and mammary gland breast cancer (MCF‐7). The results revealed that a representative number of compounds have potent cytotoxicity against HEPG‐2, HCT‐116 and MCF‐7 cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 6.71 to 31.25 μg/mL.
Fluorosolvatochromic Behavior of 2,3‐Naphthalimides Expanded by Double Fusion with Benzothiophene and Benzofuran Units
Authors: Miyazaki Takaaki , Tsutsumi Taiyou , Hayashida Osamu
Published: May 2023

As new polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) containing an imide group, we designed and synthesized 2,3‐naphthalimide fused with benzothiophene 1 or benzofuran 2. 1 and 2 have a push‐pull structure attributed to the imide group and the electron‐donating heterocyclic moieties, indicated that 1 and 2 play as a fluorosolvatochromic dye. 1 and 2 were synthesized in 3‐steps. The absorption and fluorescence spectra were measured in twelve different solvents. The absorption spectra of 1 and 2 showed a slight solvent dependence. On the other hand, a strong solvent dependence was observed in the fluorescence spectra of 1 and 2, that is, fluorosolvatochromism. The plots of the emission maximum versus the solvent polarity parameter ET(30) for 1 and 2 exhibited a good linear correlation. Multiple linear regression analysis using Catalán scale suggested that the fluorescence behavior of 1 and 2 is influenced by the acidity and dipolarity of the solvents. The changes in the dipole moment between the ground and excited states estimated by the Lippert‐Mataga equation were 7.6 D for 1 and 7.2 D for 2.
Tragopogon pratensis: Multiple introductions to North America, circumscription, and the formation of the allotetraploid T. miscellus
Authors: Soltis Douglas E. , Mavrodiev Evgeny V. , Brukhin Vladimir , Roalson Eric H. , Albach Dirk C. , Godden Grant T. , Alexeev Yuri E. , Gitzendanner Matthew A. , Freeman Craig C. , Suárez‐Santiago Víctor N. , Soltis Pamela S.
Published: May 2023

Tragopogon (Asteraceae) includes two recently and repeatedly formed allopolyploids, T. mirus and T. miscellus, both of which formed in western North America following the human‐mediated introduction of three diploids from Europe: T. dubius, T. porrifolius, and T. pratensis. We recently investigated the genetics of the introduction history to North America of T. dubius, the shared parent of both allopolyploids. Here, we investigate the introduction of T. pratensis into North America, the second diploid parent of T. miscellus. Using ITS sequence data, we found that T. pratensis as currently defined in the narrow sense is polyphyletic and comprises at least four different major ITS types in its native range. Of these native range ITS patterns, two have been introduced from Europe into North America and now occur widely across Canada and the U.S.A. Although the allotetraploid T. miscellus formed multiple times in western North America, only one of these ITS types was involved in the recurrent formations. These results for T. pratensis parallel our findings for T. dubius and further suggest that not all genotypes of these two species may be able to participate in the formation of allopolyploids. Our phylogenetic analyses reveal that several entities traditionally considered part of T. pratensis in the narrow sense are genetically distinct and mark unique lineages that may ultimately merit recognition as separate species. This proclivity for genetically distinct entities (potential cryptic species) within species recognized based on morphology appears common in Tragopogon. To unravel the complexities of what is referred to as “T. pratensis”, more intensive phylogenetic analyses involving many more samples from across the geographic range of the species are required, as are detailed assessments of taxonomy, morphology, and cytology.
Post‐Ugi Cyclizations Towards Polycyclic N‐Heterocycles
Authors: Tang Xiao , Song Liangliang , Van der Eycken Erik V.
Published: May 2023

The Ugi reaction has become one of the highly explored reactions for the formation of multifunctional adducts, due to the mild reaction conditions, wide scope and high variability. By carefully selecting the starting four components, Ugi‐adducts could undergo different kinds of post‐transformations for the synthesis of bioactive heterocycles, natural products and macrocycles. Considering the significance of polycycles, diverse post‐Ugi transformations have been developed over the years for constructing structurally novel polycycles. In this account, we summarize important efforts for the synthesis of polycyclic N‐heterocycles via post‐Ugi cyclizations from the Van der Eycken laboratory onwards 2016. With the aid of transition metal catalysis from gold, rhodium, silver and palladium, as well as metal‐free strategies, versatile polyheterocycles are prepared with high efficiency and step‐economy.
“I Promised Growing up I Would Not Become a Teacher”: Exploring the Career Trajectory of a Language Teacher through Social Cognitive Career Theory
Authors: Moodie Ian , Greenier Vincent
Published: May 2023

Despite some research attention given to expatriate native‐English‐speaking teachers' (NESTs) identities and the national educational ideologies that have led to their international recruitment, surprisingly little research has addressed their career trajectories as TESOL professionals. To address this gap, this case study explores the career of a long‐serving expatriate TESOL professional through the lens of Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), which was designed to understand how people develop interest in, make decisions about, and commit to a particular career. The methods are qualitative, involving a deductive analysis of interview data and a career timeline according to constructs from SCCT. Despite an initial reluctance to enter the profession, the participant's interest in language teaching began after teaching part‐time as a young adult. After this experience, he changed his career interests and continued his educational pursuits in Korea. His background contextual affordances, predispositions, learning experiences, and Korean language proficiency provided new opportunities and outcome expectations as he advanced his career. Although we focus on a single case, the SCCT model is further explored for its potential to better understand the factors involved in the development and commitment to a career in TESOL and for illustrating the career trajectories of TESOL professionals at scale.
Introduction
Authors: Haapala Pertti , Harjula Minna , Kokko Heikki
Published: May 2023

The introductory chapter presents the history of experiences as a new, conceptually explicit approach to the welfare state. The concept experiencing society crystallizes our approach to how a particular relationship between individual and society is lived. The chapter introduces the lived welfare state both as a methodological concept and as the empirical focus of the book. Haapala, Harjula and Kokko summarize how the new theoretical and methodological insights with a long-term perspective and case studies from three continents enrich the analysis of the welfare state. By recognizing the aim to protect citizens against extreme experiences as the basic experiential idea of a democratic welfare state, the chapter points out the everyday complexities for the legitimacy and resilience of a welfare state.
Lived, Material and Planned Welfare: Mass-Produced Suburbanity in 1960s and 1970s Metropolitan Finland
Authors: Saarikangas Kirsi , Moll Veera , Hannikainen Matti O.
Published: May 2023

This chapter provides much-needed novel perspectives on the mass-produced suburbs of the 1960s and 1970s in Finland. By analyzing how first-generation suburbanites perceived and enacted their new environment, the chapter points out the multidimensionality of these seemingly monotonous environments. With their up-to-date apartments and environments built from scratch, the suburbs were key places where modernizing welfare Finland was lived. The discussion demonstrates that their thus far largely unrecognized experiential and aesthetic qualities emerged in the reciprocity of no-nonsense architecture, developed and undeveloped natural settings, and inhabitants. It shows the importance of undefined land beyond the reach of planning for the wellbeing of suburbanites. Finally, the chapter shows that in addition to designers, by their actions inhabitants shaped and made meaningful suburban environments.