bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controllable Ultralong Phosphorescence through Substituent Modulation for Dynamic Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Hou Lihui , Yu Xue , Wang Guohao , Huang Wenlong , Zhu Xuanyu , Liu Haozhe , Nie Lin , Zhang Wenfei , Qiu Jianbei , Xu Xuhui , Wang Ting
Published: September 2023

The development of highly stable and ultra‐long organic room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials holds great promise for applications in anti‐counterfeiting and information protection. To improve the encryption level, the exploration of organic materials with tunable phosphorescence and afterglow features is in urgent need. Hereby, a series of long‐lived organic systems with RTP is developed by incorporating benzocarbazole derivatives into a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix (BCz@PVA). Notably, the BCz@PVA film exhibits outstanding RTP behavior with an ultralong phosphorescence lifetime (τp) of 2.09 s, high phosphorescence quantum yield (Φp) of 46.335%, and an ultra‐long afterglow duration of 15 s. Moreover, the BCz@PVA film maintains excellent RTP performance even after being placed in ambient conditions for 60 days. Theoretical calculations reveal that the excellent RTP performance of BCz@PVA film is attributed to the stronger intermolecular interactions, the smaller energy gap (ΔEst) between the singlet and triplet states, and stable molecular stacking mode. Furthermore, color‐tunable photoluminescence (PL), distinct τp, and afterglow duration are successfully achieved by adjusting the position of the Br substituent on the benzene ring. Based on their diverse RTP performances and excellent stability, the corresponding BCz@PVA film provides successful application for multi‐level high‐security anti‐counterfeiting and information protection.
A General Strategy Toward pH‐Resistant Phenolic Fluorophores for High‐Fidelity Sensing and Bioimaging Applications
Authors: Sarkar Sourav , Shil Anushree , Maity Suman , Jung Yun Lim , Dai Mingchong , Acharya Atanu , Ahn Kyo Han
Published: September 2023

Aryl alcohol‐type or phenolic fluorophores offer diverse opportunities for developing bioimaging agents and fluorescence probes. Due to the inherently acidic hydroxyl functionality, phenolic fluorophores provide pH‐dependent emission signals. Therefore, except for developing pH probes, the pH‐dependent nature of phenolic fluorophores should be considered in bioimaging applications but has been neglected. Here we show that a simple structural remedy converts conventional phenolic fluorophores into pH‐resistant derivatives, which also offer “medium‐resistant” emission properties. The structural modification involves a single‐step introduction of a hydrogen‐bonding acceptor such as morpholine nearby the phenolic hydroxyl group, which also leads to emission bathochromic shift, increased Stokes shift, enhanced photo‐stability and stronger emission for several dyes. The strategy greatly expands the current fluorophores’ repertoire for reliable bioimaging applications, as demonstrated here with ratiometric imaging of cells and tissues.
Food texture and vitaminDinfluence mouse mandible form and molar roots
Authors: Van Ankum Elsa M. , Majcher Kadin B. , Dolovich Allan T. , Johnston James D. , Flegel Kennedy P. , Boughner Julia C.
Published: September 2023

Industrialization influenced several facets of lifestyle, including softer nutrient‐poor diets that contributed to vitamin D deficiency in post‐industrzialized populations, with concomitantly increased dental problems. Here we simulated a post‐industrialized diet in a mouse model to test the effects of diet texture and vitamin D level on mandible and third molar (M3) forms. Mice were raised on a soft diet with vitamin D (VitD) or without it (NoD), or on a hard diet with vitamin D. We hypothesized that a VitD/hard diet is optimal for normal mandible and tooth root form, as well as for timely M3 initiation. Subsets of adult NoD/soft and VitD/soft groups were bred to produce embryos that were micro‐computed tomography (μCT) scanned to stage M3 development. M3 stage did not differ between embryos from mothers fed VitD and NoD diets, indicating that vitamin D does not affect timing of M3 onset. Sacrificed adult mice were μCT‐scanned, their mandibles 3D‐landmarked and M3 roots were measured. Principal component (PC) analysis described the largest proportion of mandible shape variance (PC1, 30.1%) related to diet texture, and nominal shape variance (PC2, 13.8%) related to vitamin D. Mice fed a soft diet had shorter, relatively narrower, and somewhat differently shaped mandibles that recapitulated findings in human populations. ANOVA and other multivariate tests found significantly wider M3 roots and larger root canals in mice fed a soft diet, with vitamin D having little effect. Altogether our experiments using a mouse model contribute new insights about how a post‐industrial diet may influence human craniodental variation.
Statin use, survival and incidence of thrombosis among older patients with polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Podoltsev Nikolai A. , Wang Rong , Shallis Rory M. , Stempel Jessica M. , Di Mengyang , Neparidze Natalia , Zeidan Amer M. , Huntington Scott F. , Giri Smith , Hull Sarah C. , Gore Steven D. , Ma Xiaomei
Published: September 2023

Background

Polycythemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythemia (ET) are linked to increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In addition to the reduction in of arterial thrombotic events, statins may prevent venous thrombosis including among patients with cancer. As previous registry‐ and claims‐based studies revealed that the use of statins may improve the survival of patients with various malignancies we evaluated their impact on outcomes of older adults with PV and ET.

Methods

We identified 4010 older adults (aged 66–99 years at diagnosis) with PV (n = 1809) and ET (n = 2201) in a population‐based cohort study using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results‐Medicare database with median follow‐up of 3.92 (interquartile range: 2.58–5.75) years. Propensity score matching (PSM) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) approaches were utilized to assess potential association between statins and overall survival. Multivariable competing risk models with death as a competing risk were used to evaluate possible relationship between statins and the incidence of thrombosis.

Results

55.8% of the patients used statins within the first year after PV/ET diagnosis, and statin use was associated with a 22% reduction in all‐cause mortality (PSM: hazard ratio [HR] = 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.63–0.98, p = 0.03; IPTW: HR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.64–0.97, p = 0.03). Statins also reduced the risk of thrombosis in this patient population (PSM: HR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.51–0.78, p < 0.01; IPTW: HR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.49–0.66, p < 0.01) as well as in PV and ET subgroups.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that it may be important to incorporate statins into the therapeutic strategy for older adults with PV and ET.
Discrete emotions effect on consumer evaluation and behaviour: A contextual perspective and directions for future research
Authors: Aeron Suchi , Rahman Zillur
Published: September 2023

Emotions are the focal factor influencing consumer evaluation and behaviour. However, the present literature remains fragmented owing to conflicting findings on effects of emotions. Identifying moderator(s) of emotion's effect resolves these inconsistencies and helps comprehend when emotions are effective marketing tools. This study jointly reviews the literature on eight discrete emotions spanning over two decades (2000–2021), synthesizing and analysing the research on moderators attenuating, intensifying, or even reversing the effect of discrete emotions, documenting them at an individual and situational level. Based on that, an integrated contextually bounded emotion effect framework is advanced that resolves inconsistencies in literature and enables us to (1) draw instructive insights around discrete emotion dynamic effects owing to contextual variability, (2) identify similarities/differences within/across emotions and contextual factors (3) provide research‐informed managerial implication and directions for future research.
Targeting AKT2 in MDA‐MB‐231 Cells by Pyrazole Hybrids: Structural, Biological and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Gaikwad Sanjay S. , Nimal Snehal K. , Pol Rushikesh , Markad Datta , Jadhao Amardeep R. , Jadhav Umesh , Kate Anup N. , Gacche Rajesh N. , Patil Limbraj R. , Chikate Rajeev C.
Published: September 2023

Pyrazolic hybrids appended with naphthalene, p‐chlorobenzene, o‐phenol and toluene have been synthesized using Claisen Schmidt condensation reaction of 1‐benzyl‐3,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐4‐carbaldehyde. All compounds were characterized by various spectroscopic techniques. Compound (E)‐3‐(1‐benzyl‐3,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl)‐1‐(4‐chlorophenyl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one crystallizes in monoclinic crystal system with C2/c space group. These synthesized compounds were tested for cytotoxic activity and among these compounds 4b and 5a shows prominent cytotoxic activity against triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells MDA‐MB‐231 with IC50 values 47.72 μM and 24.25 μM, respectively. Distinguishing morphological changes were noticed in MDA‐MB‐231 cells treated with pyrazole hybrids contributing to apoptosis action. To get more insight into cytotoxic activity, in silico molecular docking of these compounds were performed and the results suggested that (E)‐3‐(1‐benzyl‐3,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl)‐1‐(p‐tolyl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one and 1‐(1′‐benzyl‐5‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐3′,5′‐dimethyl‐3,4‐dihydro‐1′H,2H‐[3,4′‐bipyrazol]‐2‐yl)ethan‐1‐one binds to the prominent domain of Akt2 indicating their potential ability as Akt2 inhibitor. Moreover, from in silico ADME studies clearly demonstrated that these compounds may be regarded as a drug candidate for sub‐lingual absorption based on log p values (2.157–4.924). These compounds also show promising antitubercular activity. The overall results suggest that pyrazolic hybrids with substitution at less sterically hindered positions have appealing potent cytotoxic activity and antituberculosis activity due to which they may act as multidrug candidate.
Heterobimetallic Complexes Bridged by an Unsymmetrical Bis(NHC) Ligand: Study of Enhanced Catalytic Activity in Tandem Transformations and Understanding of Cooperativity between the Metal Centers
Authors: Kumar Shashi , Patra Deeptesh K. , Rit Arnab
Published: September 2023

The bis(azolium) salt [L1‐H2]Br2 was found to serve as a suitable platform for accessing the heterobimetallic IrIII‐M (M=PdII/AuI) and PdII‐IrIII complexes. Initially, selective mono‐metalation of [L1‐H2]Br2 yielded an orthometalated IrIII‐ or non‐orthometalated PdII‐complex. Sequential metalation of the mono‐IrIII complex resulted in the formation of heterobimetallic IrIII‐PdII/AuI complexes. Similarly, a distinct heterobimetallic PdII‐IrIII complex was synthesized starting from the mono‐PdII complex. Further, the corresponding homobimetallic IrIII‐IrIII and PdII‐PdII complexes were directly obtained from [L1‐H2]Br2. Additionally, monometallic PdII and IrIII analogues were synthesized from [L2‐H]Br and [L3‐H]Br, respectively. The heterobimetallic IrIII‐PdII and PdII‐IrIII complexes were then evaluated as catalysts in various one‐pot tandem catalytic reactions in which they demonstrated superior activity than the mixtures of both their corresponding homobimetallic IrIII‐IrIII/PdII‐PdII and monometallic IrIII/PdII counterparts, under the constant concentrations of metal centers. Moreover, while comparing complexes IrIII‐PdII and PdII‐IrIII, the former exhibits higher activity in all the studied reactions. All these findings suggest the presence of some form of cooperativity between the two metal centers (Ir and Pd) connected by a single ligand framework in IrIII‐PdII and PdII‐IrIII complex, with IrIII‐PdII displaying better cooperativity that has been validated by electrochemical, NMR, and DFT studies.
Panchromatic Light‐Capturing Bis‐styryl BODIPY‐Perylenediimide Donor–Acceptor Constructs: Occurrence of Sequential Energy Transfer Followed by Electron Transfer
Authors: Ileperuma Chamari V. , Garcés‐Garcés José , Shao Shuai , Fernández‐Lázaro Fernando , Sastre‐Santos Ángela , Karr Paul A. , D'Souza Francis
Published: September 2023

Invited for the cover of this issue are the groups of Fernando Fernández‐Lázaro and Ángela Sastre‐Santos at the Universidad Miguel Hernández, Elche, Spain, and Francis D'Souza at the University of North Texas at Denton, Texas, USA. The image depicts the structure and properties of bis‐styryl BODIPY‐perylenediimide donor–acceptor constructs. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202301686.
Structure challenges in the multivalency of Tau‐microtubule interactions
Authors: Nogales Eva , Kellogg Elizabeth
Published: September 2023

Structural studies aiming to visualize the interaction of Tau with microtubules (MTs) face several challenges, the main concerning the fact that Tau has multiple MT‐interacting regions. In particular, the four (or three) pseudo‐repeats of Tau bind to identical elements along the MT lattice but do it through non‐identical residues. In addition, any given Tau molecule can use all its repeats or just one for its engagement with MTs. Finally, the binding of one Tau is not necessarily in register with respect to the next one. The mismatch in the MT and Tau repeats, therefore, challenges conventional modes of image analysis when visualizing these samples using cryo‐electron microscopy. This commentary is dedicated to those challenges and ways to circumvent them while aiming for an atomic description of the Tau‐tubulin interaction.
Model‐Informed Dosing Regimen of Ticagrelor in Chinese Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Liu Yaxin , Kuang Yun , Hai Min , Cui Cheng , Liu Dongyang , Yang Guoping
Published: September 2023

The exposure to ticagrelor (BRILINTA) is higher in the East Asian population compared with the White population, thus, East Asians have an increased risk of bleeding. We developed a population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model of ticagrelor based on a randomized 3 × 3 crossover study in healthy subjects. The area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC) of Chinese patients with acute coronary syndrome was simulated based on this model. Following this, eight machine learning (ML) methods were used to construct bleeding risk models. Variables included in the final bleeding risk model were age, hypertension, body weight, AUC, drinking status, calcium channel blockers, antidiabetic medications, β‐blockers, peripheral vascular disease, diabetes, transient ischemic attack, sex, and proton pump inhibitor. In terms of F1 scores and area under the curve of receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC‐AUC), the Random Forest model performed best among all models, with an F1 score of 0.73 and ROC‐AUC of 0.81. Moreover, the PopPK model and ML algorithm were used to bridge the real‐world data to build a bleeding risk prediction model based on drug exposure and clinical information. Using this model, a ticagrelor regimen that is associated with a lower risk of bleeding in individuals can be obtained. This model should be further validated prospectively in clinical settings.
Prospective evaluation of implants‐supported, tooth‐implant supported, and teeth‐supported 3‐unit posterior monolithic zirconia fixed restorations: Bite force and patient satisfaction
Authors: Altayyar Sadeq , Al‐zordk Walid , Algabri Radwan , Rajah Eshraq , Al‐baadani Abdulsattar , Alqutaibi Ahmed Yaseen , Madina Manal Abo , Ghazy Mohammed H.
Published: September 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the maximum bite force (MBF) and satisfaction of patients restored with implants, combined tooth‐implants, and teeth‐supported monolithic zirconia fixed dental prostheses (FDPs).

Materials and Methods

Thirty partially edentulous patients in need of three units of FDPs in their mandibular posterior region were divided into three equal groups (n = 10) as follows: Group‐1 patients received two implants for each at the second premolar and second molar regions, Group‐2 patients received one implant for each at the second molar region, and Group‐3 patients with missing lower first molar. All the restorations were constructed from monolithic zirconia. Patients were evaluated 1 week after placement of restorations (baseline) and then after 6, 12, and 24‐month intervals for MBF using force transducer occlusal force meter and satisfaction (function, esthetic, and overall satisfaction) using a visual analog scale.

Results

The mean MBF for Group 1 was higher than Group 2 (p = .044) but not that of Group 3 (p = .923). Additionally, Group 3 displayed a higher MBF than Group 2, although this difference was not statistically significant (p = .096). Concerning patient satisfaction, all study groups reported high levels of satisfaction across all satisfaction elements, and no significant differences were observed between the groups.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that Group 1 gives comparable anticipated treatment outcomes as Group 3 concerning biting force and patient satisfaction. However, Group 2 gives comparable satisfaction results with biting force value within the normal range; thus, it might be used as a treatment option in a specific situation.
Structural Design of π–d Conjugated TMxB3N3S6 (x=2, 3) Monolayer Toward Electrocatalytic Ammonia Synthesis
Authors: Sun Yongxiu , Shi Wenwu , Huang Aijian , Sun Mengxuan , Tu Renyong , Li Zhijie , Wang Zhiguo
Published: September 2023

Single–atom catalysts (SACs) have attracted wide attention to be acted as potential electrocatalysts for nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR). However, the coordination environment of the single transition metal (TM) atoms is essential to the catalytic activity for NRR. Herein, we proposed four types of 3‐, 4‐coordinated and π–d conjugated TMxB3N3S6 (x=2, 3, TM=Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Zr, Nb, Mo, Tc, Ru, Hf, Ta, W, Re and Os) monolayers for SACs. Based on density functional theory (DFT) calculations, I‐TM2B3N3S6 and III‐TM3B3N3S6 are the reasonable 3‐coordinated and 4‐coordinated structures screening by structure stable optimizations, respectively. Next, the structural configurations, electronic properties and catalytic performances of 30 kinds of the 3‐coordinated I‐TM2B3N3S6 and 4‐coordinated III‐TM3B3N3S6 monolayers with different single transition metal atoms were systematically investigated. The results reveal that B3N3S6 ligand is an ideal support for TM atoms due to existence of strong TM‐S bonds. The 3‐coordinated I‐V2B3N3S6 is the best SAC with the low limiting potential (UL) of −0.01 V, excellent stability (Ef=−0.32 eV, Udiss=0.02 V) and remarkable selectivity characteristics. This work not only provides novel π–d conjugated SACs, but also gives theoretical insights into their catalytic activities and offers reference for experimental synthesis.
Targeting deubiquitinases for cancer therapy
Authors: Xue Qian , Tang Daolin , Chen Xin , Liu Jinbao
Published: September 2023

The ubiquitin‐proteasome system assumes a critical role in numerous cellular processes, and among its components, deubiquitinases (DUBs) have emerged as essential regulators. With roughly 100 DUBs encoded within the human genome, these enzymes can be categorized into two main types: cysteine protease DUBs and metalloproteinase DUBs, based on the catalytic mechanism of the active site. DUBs exert significant influence over specific substrates implicated in cancer progression, establishing them as closely associated with various malignancies, including breast carcinoma, prostate cancer, and chronic myeloid leukemia. Consequently, the targeted inhibition of DUBs presents an enticing therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment. Here, we delve into the functional roles of DUBs in different cancer types and provide a thorough overview of the anticancer properties exhibited by DUB inhibitors. This knowledge will propel the development and clinical application of DUB inhibitors, opening promising avenues for tumor treatment.
A systematic review of congestion control in internet of vehicles and vehicular ad hoc networks: Techniques, challenges, and open issues
Authors: Hemmati Atefeh , Zarei Mani , Rahmani Amir Masoud
Published: September 2023

The Internet of Vehicles (IoV) integrates various technologies to enable real‐time data exchange between vehicles, pedestrians, roadside units, unmanned aerial vehicles, road‐added things, and so forth. IoV is an improved internet‐enabled vehicular ad hoc network (VANET), which is similarly affected by data traffic aggravated by time‐variant network density and the network's topological and informational changes. A high density of simultaneous vehicular communication leads to channel saturation and data congestion, which leads to rapid increases in data loss, packet latency, and lower service quality. Due to the importance of real‐time data communications in high dynamic networks, we used the systematic literature review (SLR) approach to identify 54 articles up to May 2023 to discuss the ways to deal with data traffic congestion in VANETs and IoV networks as well as existing and upcoming issues in this area.
Ten‐m3 plays a role in the formation of thalamostriatal projections
Authors: Tran Heidi , Sawatari Atomu , Leamey Catherine A.
Published: September 2023

The importance of the thalamostriatal pathway for a myriad of brain functions is becoming increasingly apparent. Little is known about the formation of this pathway in mice. Further, while Ten‐m3, a member of the Ten‐m/teneurin/Odz family, is implicated in the proper wiring of mature thalamostriatal projections, its developmental time course is unknown. Here, we describe the normal development of thalamostriatal projections arising from the parafascicular nucleus (PFN) and show a role for Ten‐m3 in its formation. Ten‐m3 is expressed in both the PFN and the striatum by embryonic day 17 (E17). By postnatal day 3 (P3), it had a patchy appearance in the striatum, overlaid on a high dorsal–low ventral expression gradient in both structures. In wild‐type mice, axons from the PFN begin to innervate the striatum by E17. By P3, terminals had ramified but were not confined to any striatal subregion. By P7, the axons had begun to avoid striosomes. The first indication of clustering of thalamic terminals within the striatal matrix was also seen at this time point. The compartmental targeting and clustering of PFN projections became more apparent by P10. Analysis of Ten‐m3 knockout mice showed that while the early developmental progression of the thalamostriatal pathway is conserved, by P10 differences emerged, with a loss of topographic precision and the absence of terminal clustering. No evidence of the involvement of EphA7 downstream of Ten‐m3 was found. Overall, our results suggest that Ten‐m3 plays a role in the consolidation and refinement of thalamic axons to a specific subregion of the striatal matrix.
A method for deriving the state space equations for degenerate linear time invariant circuits
Authors: Naseh Sasan
Published: September 2023

A procedure for writing the state space equations for linear time invariant circuits is proposed. With this method the state equations for both degenerate and nondegenerate circuits can be derived in a systematic and unified manner. Capacitors' voltages and inductors' currents are chosen as state variables. First all the capacitors and inductors are replaced with voltage and current sources, respectively, and the modified nodal analysis is applied to this new circuit. By inspecting the system of equations obtained in this way and identifying the dependent equations among them, it is possible to detect any degeneracy, that is, dependency among the capacitors' voltages and inductors' currents, and subsequently refine the list of state variables. No knowledge of the circuits' graph is required and only its netlist description is needed in order to derive the equations, which makes it suitable for implementation as a computer program. Several examples are presented in which application of the method is demonstrated.
Sustainable per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances contaminated soil remediation: Evaluating the potential of thermal desorption
Authors: Rassaei Farzad
Published: September 2023

Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have been extensively utilized in various industries. These artificial compounds pose significant environmental and health concerns as they exhibit persistence in soil over long periods and can migrate through soil and groundwater. One potential method for addressing PFASs toxicity is thermal desorption, although its efficacy in calcareous soil remains understudied. In this experimental investigation, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of thermal desorption in removing PFASs from two types of calcareous soil: spiked clay and sandy clay loam soil. PFASs were spiked into soil samples, which were subsequently freeze‐dried and homogenized. The samples underwent thermal desorption, followed by extraction and analysis of remaining PFASs concentrations using UPLC MS/MS. The study examined the impact of different temperatures, times, and soil types on PFASs removal. Results revealed that the removal fraction of PFASs increased with higher temperatures, although the specific effect varied depending on the soil type and the characteristics of the PFASs. Optimal PFASs removal occurred within the temperature range of 350 to 450°C, with a treatment time of 40 to 60 min. ANOVA analysis indicated a significant interaction between temperature and time, highlighting the influence of temperature on PFASs desorption. The correlation coefficient demonstrated a negative relationship between temperature and PFASs removal from the soil sample. This study successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of thermal desorption in removing PFASs from calcareous soils. The findings contribute to the development of effective strategies for mitigating the environmental and health risks associated with PFASs contamination in soil.
From the Law to the Decision: The Social and Legal Conditions of Asylum Adjudication in Switzerland
Authors: Miaz Jonathan
Published: September 2023

Starting from an ethnography within the State Secretariat for Migrations in Switzerland, this article addresses the issue of discretion in law enforcement by analyzing the conditions in which Swiss asylum caseworkers make their decision. This article argues that social and legal constraints frame caseworkers' practices and favor a strict interpretation of the law when implementing it. If evolutions of legislation have indeed strengthened the law, there are also incentives for strictness through the controls of superiors and peers, as well as through the secondary implementation rules created within the office to orient caseworkers' practices. Nevertheless, this article also shows that the position of the individual caseworkers in the institution, their institutional symbolic capital, the role of their superiors, the group pressure they experience, the countries from which the asylum demands they process originate, as well as caseworkers' institutional socialization, structure their perception of the room for maneuver they can exercise.
In Whose Backyard? The Wicked Problem of Siting Nuclear Waste Repositories
Authors: Di Nucci Maria Rosaria , Brunnengräber Achim
Published: September 2023

This article focuses on the “wicked problem” of siting nuclear waste repositories. It addresses the question of why local communities are not willing to host nuclear waste facilities, and what factors play a decisive role for acceptance and voluntarism. We discuss the extent to which compensations together with trust could be decisive in easing the decision making processes for a site search. Starting from the assumption that voluntary processes have been the preferred path in countries in an advanced stage of planning or constructing a repository, we question whether the factors that allowed for success in siting in Finland, Sweden and France or for failure (United Kingdom) can be of use in other contexts, e.g., in Germany. By analyzing the relationship between government, industry and the communities willing to host repositories, we discuss different forms of voluntarism in combination with various site typologies, i.e., Blowers′ “nuclear oases”; “communities with industry awareness”; “nuclear communities”, and “Springfield communities.”
Boosting Copper Biocidal Activity by Silver Decoration and Few‐Layer Graphene in Coatings on Textile Fibers
Authors: Štular Danaja , de Velde Nigel Van , Drinčić Ana , Kogovšek Polona , Filipić Arijana , Fric Katja , Simončič Barbara , Tomšič Brigita , Chouhan Raghuraj S. , Bohm Sivasambu , Kr. Verma Suresh , Panda Pritam Kumar , Jerman Ivan
Published: September 2023

The outbreak of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has highlighted the importance of developing antiviral surface coatings that are capable of repelling pathogens and neutralizing them through self‐sanitizing properties. In this study, a novel coating design based on few‐layer graphene (FLG) is proposed and silver‐decorated micro copper flakes (CuMF) that exhibit both antibacterial and antiviral properties. The role of sacrificial anode surfaces and intrinsic graphene defects in enhancing the release of metal ions from CuMF embedded in water‐based binders is investigated. In silico analysis is conducted to better understand the molecular interactions of pathogen‐repelling species with bacterial or bacteriophage proteins. The results show that the optimal amount of CuMF/FLG in the coating leads to a significant reduction in bacterial growth, with reductions of 3.17 and 9.81 log for Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, respectively. The same coating also showed high antiviral efficacy, reducing bacteriophage phi6 by 5.53 log. The antiviral efficiency of the coating is find to be doubled compared to either micro copper flakes or few‐layer graphene alone. This novel coating design is versatile and can be applied to various substrates, such as personal protective clothing and face masks, to provide biocidal activity against both bacterial and viral pathogens.
Advancing Service‐Learning at Research Universities
Authors: Furco Andrew
Published: September 2023

Despite their emphasis on scholarship, research universities are appropriate places to use service‐learning. Three strategies can help practitioners overcome obstacles.
The Student Learning Self‐Study: Choices and Opportunities
Authors: Hatfield Susan R.
Published: September 2023

The shift of accreditation from standards to student outcomes has created the need to define the best way to measure the benefits that students are receiving from their education. This chapter examines what types of student learning outcomes are amenable to assessment for the purposes of accreditation.
Why Service‐Learning?
Authors: Speck Bruce W.
Published: September 2023

Service‐learning is generally based on one of two impulses, philanthropic or civil, each with its own distinct philosophical viewpoint. Teachers should be aware of these impulses as well as the major challenges of service‐learning.
A Smart Start to Service‐Learning
Authors: Rubin Maureen Shubow
Published: September 2023

A seven‐step model can help newcomers develop a successful service‐learning course.
DHEERA reaching the young, a novel approach addressing gender‐based violence in India
Authors: Kumari S. Shantha , Suman B. Aruna , Kiranmai D. , Bhardwaj Ajey
Published: September 2023

Objective

To understand, build capacities, give guidance, and support school‐going adolescent boys and girls on gender stereotypes and violence against women (VAW) and to assess the role of educational training in improving knowledge, attitudes, and practice to stop VAW.

Methods

An educational interventional study was conducted for a period of 18 months across schools in India, involving boys and girls studying in grades 9–12. Assessment of the program's effectiveness on influencing young minds in breaking the taboos surrounding gender stereotypes and stopping VAW was completed through a pre‐test and post‐test, consisting of 12 scenario‐based questions.

Results

In all, 8931 participants (64% girls and 36% boys) from 26 states in India submitted their pre‐test, post‐test, and feedback forms. Participants showed improved clarity and comprehension on issues surrounding VAW/gender‐based violence. There was a significant improvement in the knowledge on what actions can be taken and whom to approach for cases related to VAW/gender‐based violence. The post‐test survey showed a high level of commitment to overcoming gender stereotyping and stopping VAW.

Conclusion

This unique nationwide study demonstrated the effectiveness of an educational intervention that led to improved knowledge, attitude, and commitment towards stopping VAW. A large‐scale program can be self‐sustaining when it is embedded in the schools responsible for shaping young minds.
Research on evolution process of full‐layer incision of skin tissue under different laser incidences
Authors: Chen Yuxin , Huang Jun , Wang Kehong , Li Xiaopeng , Rui Yunfeng , Fan Wentao
Published: September 2023

Considering difficulties of achieving vertical incidence of beam in different positions of skin, it is significant to study potential effects of incidence angles of laser on incisions. Surgical platform with a 1064 nm continuous fiber laser was established. Incident angle was adopted and real‐time temperature fluctuations in laser operating area could be monitored. The rats were treated with laser at day 0 and day 3 after incision modeling, and H&E, Masson, Sirius Red, and Immuno‐histochemical staining and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay were adopted at day 3, 7, 14 to analyze the performance of healing. Laser with energy density of 67.54 J/mm2 can effectively accelerate wound healing in vivo, in which a laser with incident angle around 60° can effectively avoid scar hyperplasia. Therefore, the use of low energy laser with a small deflection angle has a good clinical application prospect in promoting wound healing.
Self‐consistent field method for open‐shell systems within the density‐matrix functional theory
Authors: Irimia Marinela , Wang Jian
Published: September 2023

The unrestricted Hartree‐Fock method is extended to correlation calculation within the density‐matrix functional theory. The method is derived from an entropic cumulant functional for the correlation energy. The eigenvalue equations for the spin‐orbitals are modified by the orbital occupation numbers. The Euler equation for the occupation numbers results in the Fermi‐Dirac distribution, which is very efficient to update as soon as the orbital eigenvalue equations are solved. The method is demonstrated on the ground state of O.
Multisite MRI Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Repeatability and Reproducibility across 3 T Scanners in a Breast Diffusion Phantom: A BReast Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Multisite (BRIMM) Study
Authors: Basukala Dibash , Mikheev Artem , Sevilimedu Varadan , Gilani Nima , Moy Linda , Pinker Katja , Thakur Sunitha B. , Sigmund Eric E.
Published: September 2023

Background

Monoexponential apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and biexponential intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) analysis of diffusion‐weighted imaging is helpful in the characterization of breast tumors. However, repeatability/reproducibility studies across scanners and across sites are scarce.

Purpose

To evaluate the repeatability and reproducibility of ADC and IVIM parameters (tissue diffusivity (Dt), perfusion fraction (Fp) and pseudo‐diffusion (Dp)) within and across sites employing MRI scanners from different vendors utilizing 16‐channel breast array coils in a breast diffusion phantom.

Study Type

Phantom repeatability.

Phantom

A breast phantom containing tubes of different polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) concentrations, water, fat, and sponge flow chambers, together with an MR‐compatible liquid crystal (LC) thermometer.

Field Strength/Sequence

Bipolar gradient twice‐refocused spin echo sequence and monopolar gradient single spin echo sequence at 3 T.

Assessment

Studies were performed twice in each of two scanners, located at different sites, on each of 2 days, resulting in four studies per scanner. ADCs of the PVP and water were normalized to the vendor‐provided calibrated values at the temperature indicated by the LC thermometer for repeatability/reproducibility comparisons.

Statistical Tests

ADC and IVIM repeatability and reproducibility within and across sites were estimated via the within‐system coefficient of variation (wCV). Pearson correlation coefficient (r) was also computed between IVIM metrics and flow speed. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

ADC and Dt demonstrated excellent repeatability (<2%; <3%, respectively) and reproducibility (both <5%) at the two sites. Fp and Dp exhibited good repeatability (mean of two sites 3.67% and 5.59%, respectively) and moderate reproducibility (mean of two sites 15.96% and 13.3%, respectively). The mean intersite reproducibility (%) of Fp/Dp/Dt was 50.96/13.68/5.59, respectively. Fp and Dt demonstrated high correlations with flow speed while Dp showed lower correlations. Fp correlations with flow speed were significant at both sites.

Data Conclusion

IVIM reproducibility results were promising and similar to ADC, particularly for Dt. The results were reproducible within both sites, and a progressive trend toward reproducibility across sites except for Fp.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Impact of in‐season split application of nitrogen on intra‐panicle grain dynamics, grain quality, and vegetative indices that govern nitrogen use efficiency in sorghum
Authors: Ostmeyer Troy J. , Impa Somayanda M. , Bean Scott R. , Dhillon Rajveer , Hayes Chad , Ritchie Glen , Asebedo Antonio R. , Emendack Yves , Jagadish S. V. Krishna
Published: September 2023

Background

The correct rate and timing of nitrogen (N) has the potential to improve sorghum productivity through modified grain yield components and quality. The impacts of in‐season split application of N have little documentation.

Aim

An experiment was conducted to determine the optimum rate and timing of N to relate vegetative indices that govern nitrogen use efficiency and to maximize grain yield and quality under different soil types.

Methods

Pioneer 86P20 was grown in three environments on two different soil types following a completely randomized block design with nine N application treatments. Treatments included differing N rates applied at critical developmental stages of sorghum (planting, panicle initiation, and booting), accompanied with high temporal aerial phenotyping.

Results

Opportunities to increase grain protein content while using split N applications were observed, with panicle initiation identified as a critical developmental stage. In‐season split application of N enhances grain yield under low soil mineral N. Split application of 31 kg N ha−1 each at the time of planting, panicle initiation, and booting emerged as optimum N treatment to increase protein content in sorghum. Vegetative indices, that is, normalized difference vegetation index and normalized difference red edge index are capable of predicting grain yield and protein content, respectively. Intra‐panicle grain numbers and weights were altered significantly at different portions within panicles, with an opportunity to enhance yield potential at the bottom portion. The strong stay‐green trait in this hybrid locked a large proportion of nitrogen in the leaves, which warrants the need for balancing stay‐green and senescence in sorghum improvement programs.

Conclusions

Findings highlight that in grain sorghum remobilization of residual leaf N into grain is a target to increase yield and grain quality. An optimized stay‐green trait balanced with senescence is recommended for enhancing sorghum yield potential.
Synergistic relationships between the age of soil organic matter, Fe speciation, and aggregate stability in an arable Luvisol
Authors: Siebers Nina , Voggenreiter Eva , Joshi Prachi , Rethemeyer Janet , Wang Liming
Published: September 2023

Background

Knowledge of soil aggregate formation and stability is essential, as this is important for maintaining soil functions.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the influence of organic matter (OM), the content of pedogenic iron (Fe) (oxyhydr)oxides, and aggregate size on the stability of aggregates in arable soil.

Methods

To this end, the Ap and Bt horizons of a Luvisol were sampled after 14 years of bare fallow, and the results were compared with a control field that had been permanently cropped.

Results

In the Ap horizon, bare fallow decreased the median diameter of the 53–250 µm size fraction by 26%. Simultaneously, the mass of the 20–53 µm size fraction increased by 65%, indicating reduced stability—particularly of larger soil microaggregates—due to the lack of input of fresh OM. The range of 14carbon (14C) fraction of modern C (F14C) under bare fallow was between 0.50 and 0.90, and thus lower than the cropped site (F14C between 0.75 and 1.01), which is particularly pronounced in the smallest size fraction, indicating the presence of older C. This higher stability and the reduced C turnover in <20 µm aggregates is probably also due to having the highest content of poorly crystalline Fe (oxy)hydroxides, compared to the other size fractions, which act as a cementing agent. Colloid transport from the Ap to the Bt horizon was observed under bare fallow treatment.

Conclusions

The lack of input of OM decreased the stability of microaggregates and led to a release of mobile colloids, the transport of which can initiate elemental fluxes with as‐yet unknown environmental consequences.
How to plan and manage an individual participant data meta‐analysis. An illustrative toolkit
Authors: Maxwell Lauren , Shreedhar Priya , Carabali Mabel , Levis Brooke
Published: September 2023

Individual participant data meta‐analyses (IPD‐MAs) have several benefits over standard aggregate data meta‐analyses, including the consideration of additional participants, follow‐up time, and the joint consideration of study‐ and participant‐level heterogeneity for improved diagnostic and prognostic model development and evaluation. However, IPD‐MAs are resource‐intensive and require careful budgeting of time from data contributing groups, a dedicated management team, diversity of expertise, clearly documented data sharing and authorship agreements, and consistent and clear communication. We present a toolkit to facilitate the implementation and management of IPD‐MAs, from study recruitment to retrospective harmonization. The toolkit was developed and refined over our work on multiple multinational IPD‐MA projects over the last 13 years. The toolkit's budget and email templates, agreements, project management spreadsheets, and standard operating procedures are meant to facilitate routine IPD‐MA tasks to expedite implementing and managing future IPD‐MA projects.
Sexual assault characteristics and posttraumatic stress symptoms among collegiate women: The role of posttraumatic cognitions
Authors: Newins Amie R. , Wilson Laura C.
Published: September 2023

Although it is well‐established that sexual assault is a risk factor for posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and other negative mental health outcomes, research is needed to help identify which individuals are most likely to experience ongoing distress following sexual assault. Negative cognitions following trauma may be influenced by sexual assault characteristics and have been shown to be associated with PTSS. The present study examined whether sexual assault characteristics were associated with PTSS by way of posttraumatic cognitions in a sample of 475 female college students who had experienced a sexual assault since the age of 14 years. Participants completed an online survey that included questions about sexual assault characteristics (i.e., whether the perpetrator used force, whether they experienced a freeze response), posttraumatic cognitions, and PTSS. Path analysis revealed that survivors who indicated they froze during the assault reported higher levels of PTSS, total effect = .28, p < .001, direct effect = .19, p < .001; posttraumatic cognitions regarding others, indirect effect = .02, p = .047, and other‐safety, indirect effect = .05, p = .003, partially accounted for this association. Only the direct effect of perpetrator use of force on PTSS was statistically significant, total effect = .23, p = .090, direct effect = .16, p = .009; none of the indirect effects were statistically significant, ps = .063–.669. The results support that assault characteristics are associated with postassault outcomes and are consistent with the cognitive model of posttraumatic stress disorder.
Body‐and movement‐oriented interventions for posttraumatic stress disorder: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: van de Kamp Minke M. , Scheffers Mia , Emck Claudia , Fokker Ties J. , Hatzmann Janneke , Cuijpers Pim , Beek Peter J.
Published: September 2023

This study is an update of the meta‐analysis we published in 2019 on the effectiveness of body‐ and movement‐oriented interventions (BMOIs) for adults with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in decreasing PTSD symptoms and secondary outcomes of depressive symptoms, sleep disturbance, and interoceptive awareness. Search terms for BMOIs and PTSD were combined to identify eligible studies in four bibliographical databases. Articles were selected if they included adult participants with a primary diagnosis of PTSD, included BMOI as one of the investigated therapies, were designed as a comparative outcome trial with any control condition, and involved a standardized outcome measure for PTSD symptom severity. This resulted in the addition of 14 new studies compared to the 2019 study. The meta‐analysis, which included 29 studies in total, resulted in a mean Hedges’ g effect size of 0.50, 95% CI [0.22, 0.79], in decreasing PTSD symptoms, with very high heterogeneity, I2 = 89%. Meta‐analyses of secondary outcomes resulted in Hedges’ g effect sizes of 0.37, 95% CI [0.08, 0.66] for depressive symptoms; 0.62, 95% CI [0.42, 0.81] for sleep quality; and −0.10, 95% CI [−0.23, 0.43] for interoceptive awareness. The risk of bias analysis resulted in some concerns or high risk of bias in almost all included studies; only one study had a low risk of bias. We conclude that BMOIs may be valuable for patients with PTSD. There is, however, still a lack of high‐quality studies with proper control conditions and long‐term follow‐up periods from which to draw conclusions.
Northern bobwhite breeding season and nest survival are greater on native grasslands
Authors: Sinnott Emily A. , Thompson Frank R. , Hedges R. Kyle , Loncarich Frank L. , Thompson Thomas R. , Mosloff Alisha R.
Published: September 2023

Northern bobwhites (Colinus virginianus) are declining across their range. Population recovery requires a better understanding of the influence of management strategies and land cover on specific demographic components of full annual cycle population dynamics. We used known‐fate daily survival models to relate adult breeding season survival and nest survival to land cover composition, woody cover, and management actions on 5 study sites in southwest Missouri, USA. We collected 3,516 observations of daily nest survival from 364 bobwhite nests for 7,509 exposure days and 34,386 observations of adult survival from 955 bobwhites for 85,225 exposure days during breeding seasons in 2014–2018. The most supported model for nest and adult breeding season survival included environmental covariates for percent native grass and agricultural cover, distance to shrub, and distance to tree. Both nest and adult breeding season survival were positively related to distance to trees. Nest survival was negatively related to percent agricultural crop cover. Areal nest and adult breeding season survival were greater on native grassland sites compared to conservation areas that maintained small units of strip crop and wooded cover. Management to sustain or expand native grass cover and reduce tree cover should benefit bobwhite nest survival and adult breeding season survival in the landscapes we studied.