Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Flexible Electrode Based on MWCNT Embedded in a Cross-Linked Acrylamide/Alginate Blend: Conductivity vs. Stretching

A polyacrylamide-alginate hydrogel electrolyte, blended with Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT) as an electronically conductive fraction, allows for the creation of a flexible, durable, and resilient electrode. The MWCNT content is correlated with mechanical characteristics such as stretch modulus, tensile resistance, and electrical conductivity. The mechanical analysis demonstrates tensile strength that is comparable to similar hydrogels reported in the literature, with increasing strength for MWCNT-embedded hydrogels. The impedance spectroscopy reveals that the total resistance of electrodes decreases with increasing MWCNT content upon elongation and that bending and twisting do not obstruct their conductivity. The MWCNT-inserted hydrogels show mixed ionic and electronic conductivities, both within a range of 1–4 × 10−2 S cm−1 in a steady state. In addition, the thermal stability of these materials increases with incrementing MWCNT content. This observation agrees with long-term charge-discharge cycling that shows enhanced electrochemical durability of the MWCNT-hydrogel hybrid when compared to pure hydrogel electrolyte. The hydrogel-carbon films demonstrate an increased interfacial double-layer current at a high MWCNT content (giving an area-specific capacitance of ~30 mF cm−2 at 2.79 wt.% of MWCNT), which makes them promising candidates as printable and flexible electrodes for lightweight energy storage applications. The maximum content of MWCNT within the polymer electrolyte was estimated at 2.79 wt. %, giving a very elastic polymer electrode with good electrical characteristics.
Recent Advances in Lipopolysaccharide Recognition Systems

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), commonly known as endotoxin, is ubiquitous and the most-studied pathogen-associated molecular pattern. A component of Gram-negative bacteria, extracellular LPS is sensed by our immune system via the toll-like receptor (TLR)-4. Given that TLR4 is membrane bound, it recognizes LPS in the extracellular milieu or within endosomes. Whether additional sensors, if any, play a role in LPS recognition within the cytoplasm remained unknown until recently. The last decade has seen an unprecedented unfolding of TLR4-independent LPS sensing pathways. First, transient receptor potential (TRP) channels have been identified as non-TLR membrane-bound sensors of LPS and, second, caspase-4/5 (and caspase-11 in mice) have been established as the cytoplasmic sensors for LPS. Here in this review, we detail the brief history of LPS discovery, followed by the discovery of TLR4, TRP as the membrane-bound sensor, and our current understanding of caspase-4/5/11 as cytoplasmic sensors.
Links between prey assemblages and poison frog toxins: A landscape ecology approach to assess how biotic interactions affect species phenotypes

Abstract Ecological studies of species pairs showed that biotic interactions promote phenotypic change and eco‐evolutionary feedbacks. However, it is unclear how phenotypes respond to synergistic interactions with multiple taxa. We investigate whether interactions with multiple prey species explain spatially structured variation in the skin toxins of the neotropical poison frog Oophaga pumilio. Specifically, we assess how dissimilarity (i.e., beta diversity) of alkaloid‐bearing arthropod prey assemblages (68 ant species) and evolutionary divergence between frog populations (from a neutral genetic marker) contribute to frog poison dissimilarity (toxin profiles composed of 230 different lipophilic alkaloids sampled from 934 frogs at 46 sites). We find that models that incorporate spatial turnover in the composition of ant assemblages explain part of the frog alkaloid variation, and we infer unique alkaloid combinations across the range of O. pumilio. Moreover, we find that alkaloid variation increases weakly with the evolutionary divergence between frog populations. Our results pose two hypotheses: First, the distribution of only a few prey species may explain most of the geographic variation in poison frog alkaloids; second, different codistributed prey species may be redundant alkaloid sources. The analytical framework proposed here can be extended to other multitrophic systems, coevolutionary mosaics, microbial assemblages, and ecosystem services.
Acidity Suppression of Hole Transport Layer via Solution Reaction of Neutral PEDOT:PSS for Stable Perovskite Photovoltaics

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is typically used for hole transport layers (HTLs), as it exhibits attractive mechanical, electrical properties, and easy processability. However, the intrinsically acidic property can degrade the crystallinity of perovskites, limiting the stability and efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this study, inverted CH3NH3PbI3 photovoltaic cells were fabricated with acidity suppressed HTL. We adjusted PEDOT:PSS via a solution reaction of acidic and neutral PEDOT:PSS. And we compared the various pH-controlled HTLs for PSCs devices. The smoothness of the pH-controlled PEDOT:PSS layer was similar to that of acidic PEDOT:PSS-based devices. These layers induced favorable crystallinity of perovskite compared with acidic PEDOT:PSS layers. Furthermore, the enhanced stability of pH optimized PEDOT:PSS-based devices, including the prevention of degradation by a strong acid, allowed the device to retain its power conversion efficiency (PCE) value by maintaining 80% of PCE for approximately 150 h. As a result, the pH-controlled HTL layer fabricated through the solution reaction maintained the surface morphology of the perovskite layer and contributed to the stable operation of PSCs.
Creation of Carotid Fusiform Aneurysm in a Canine Model: Comparison of the Surgical Venous-graft Model With the Model Induced by Porcine Elastase With or Without Balloon Assistance

Introduction:Intracranial fusiform aneurysm constitutes a relatively uncommon subgroup of aneurysms. Few reports concentrate on the creation of fusiform aneurysm in the carotid artery in large animals. In this study, we compare the technical feasibility and angiographic features of a canine model of carotid fusiform aneurysm created by a surgical venous-graft with the model induced by porcine elastase with or without balloon assistance. Materials and Methods:Fifteen beagle canines (weighted 15 to 25 kg) were included in the study and randomly divided into 3 groups, each with 5 canines: group 1, porcine pancreatic elastase-induced model; group 2, porcine pancreatic elastase-induced model with balloon assistance; and group 3, surgically venous-grafted model. The surgical success rate and the success rate of aneurysm formation were compared between the 3 groups. An initial digital subtract angiography was performed immediately after the creation of the model, and follow up angiography was performed at 2 weeks and 4 weeks. Results:One dog was excluded from group 2. The technical success rates for groups 1, 2, and 3 were 100%, 80%, and 100%, respectively. At immediate angiography, the diameter of dilated carotid arteries increased significantly compared with control arteries in groups 1 (4.84±0.25 vs. 3.20±0.10 mm), 2 (4.71±0.21vs. 3.39±0.12 mm), and 3 (8.18±0.65 vs. 3.99±0.05mm). Arterial dissection was observed in 2 of 5 animals in group 1. At follow up angiography, 3 models retained medium arterial enlargement and 2 models showed a slight enlargement in group 1; signs of thrombosis appeared in 2 models at 2 weeks and carotid arterial occlusion in all models at 4 weeks in group 2; no apparent change in the size and the morphology was found in group 3. Conclusions:The canine model of fusiform aneurysm of the carotid artery created by surgical venous-graft yields success rates similar to other models, but the aneurysm is more predictable and stable by angiography. The model induced by porcine elastase with balloon assistance also yields a high rate of aneurysm formation. However, the balloon might increase the risk of thrombosis; this did not occur in our model.
GILLES DE LA TOURETTE'S SYNDROME AND OTHER TIC DISORDERS

Tic disorders are common in childhood. Tics may be motor or vocal, simple or complex. Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome (GTS) is a constellation of motor and vocal tics that wax and wane and begins during childhood or adolescence. Tics must be present for at least 1 year to be classified as GTS, but they may vary in frequency and intensity and may shift from one body area to another. In many patients with GTS, a spectrum of behavioral and psychiatric abnormalities may coexist, including attention deficit disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The inheritance of GTS is consistent with an autosomal dominant mode of transmission with variable penetrance, but specific genes have not been identified. The pathophysiology of GTS is not known, although loss of central inhibitory mechanisms has been postulated. An immune-mediated etiology has also been proposed. Treatment of GTS is directed toward the most disabling symptom, with a variety of therapeutic options available for control of the neurologic and behavioral aspects of the disorder.
Shenfu Injection Combined with Mechanical Ventilation for 30 Cases of Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Objective To observe the therapeutic effect of Shenfu Injection [injection of Renshen(Radix et Rhizoma Ginseng) and Fuzi(Radix Aconiti Lateralis Praeparata)] combined with mechanical ventilation(MV) for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(AECOPD). Methods Sixty cases of AECOPD were randomized into the treatment group and control group,with 30 in each.Both groups were given invasive-noninvasive sequential MV and basic treatment.The treatment group was added with intravenous infusion of 60ml Shenfu Injection once daily.The therapeutic effect was evaluated after treatment.The occurrence time of pulmonary infection control window,invasive MV time,total duration of MV,intensive care unit(ICU) stay time and total hospitalization time were recorded in both groups.The first occurrence time of pulmonary infection control window and the ventilation and circulation indicators after using noninvasive MV for 3 hours were detected.The ventilator-associated pneumonia(VAP) rate,extubation failure rate and mortality were recorded.Results The total effective rate of the treatment group and control group were 100% and 86.7% respectively,with a significant difference between groups(P0.05). The first occurrence time of pulmonary infection control window in the treatment group and control group was(4.17±0.41) days and(5.50±0.80) days respectively,with a significant difference between groups(P0.05). The PaO2 and PaCO2 were significantly improved in both groups after using noninvasive MV for 3 hours(P0.05). The arterial pH was significantly improved in the treatment group after using noninvasive MV for 3 hours as compared with the occurrence of pulmonary infection control window(P0.05). The invasive MV time,total duration of MV,ICU stay time and total hospitalization time in the treatment group were significantly shorter than those in the control group(P0.05). The VAP rate,extubation failure rate and mortality in the treatment group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P0.01). Conclusion The combo therapy of Shenfu Injection and MV is effective for AECOPD and it can shorten the invasive MV time and ICU stay time,increase the extubation success rate and reduce mortality.
Effects of the Parenting Efficacy Improvement Program for mothers as primary caregivers of children with cerebral palsy under rehabilitation

The purpose of this study was done to determine the effect of a Parenting Efficacy Improvement Program (PEIP) to mothers of cerebral palsy. To investigate the PEIP on parenting efficacy and parenting stress. 60 subjects were composed with experimental group (n=30) and control group (n=30). The study was performed in the rehabilitation ward and rehabilitation daytime ward of National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital in Goyang, Gyeonggi-do, Korea. The data were analyzed by chi-square test, independent t-test, and two-way repeated analysis of variance design using IBM SPSS Statistics ver. 20.0. Experimental group showed significantly improved parenting efficacy than that of control group (F=295.79, P<0.001) and experimental group showed significant decrease parenting stress than that of control group (F=138.76, P<0.001). The effect of a PEIP in this study was certainly improve parenting efficacy, decreased the parenting stress of cerebral palsy patient’s mothers. This program can be deployed as a proper nursing intervention on mothers of patients with cerebral palsy.
Smooth muscle SIRT1 reprograms endothelial cells to suppress angiogenesis after ischemia

Objective: Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) undergo the phenotypic changes from contractile to synthetic state during vascular remodeling after ischemia. SIRT1 protects against stress-induced vascular remodeling via maintaining VSMC differentiated phenotype. However, the effect of smooth muscle SIRT1 on the functions of endothelial cells (ECs) has not been well clarified. Here, we explored the role of smooth muscle SIRT1 in endothelial angiogenesis after ischemia and the underlying mechanisms. Methods: We performed a femoral artery ligation model using VSMC specific human SIRT1 transgenic (SIRT1-Tg) and knockout (KO) mice. Angiogenesis was assessed in in vivo by quantification of the total number of capillaries, wound healing and matrigel plug assays, and in vitro ECs by tube formation, proliferation and migration assays. The interaction of HIF1α with circRNA was examined by using RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA pull-down and in situ hybridization assays. Results: The blood flow recovery was significantly attenuated in SIRT1-Tg mice, and markedly improved in SIRT1-Tg mice treated with SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 and in SIRT1-KO mice. The density of capillaries significantly decreased in the ischemic gastrocnemius of SIRT1-Tg mice compared with SIRT1-KO and WT mice, with reduced expression of VEGFA, which resulted in decreased number of arterioles. We identified that the phenotypic switching of SIRT1-Tg VSMCs was attenuated in response to hypoxia, with high levels of contractile proteins and reduced expression of the synthetic markers and NG2, compared with SIRT1-KO and WT VSMCs. Mechanistically, SIRT1-Tg VSMCs inhibited endothelial angiogenic activity induced by hypoxia via the exosome cZFP609. The cZFP609 was delivered into ECs, and detained HIF1α in the cytoplasm via its interaction with HIF1α, thereby inhibiting VEGFA expression and endothelial angiogenic functions. Meantime, the high cZFP609 expression was observed in the plasma of the patients with atherosclerotic or diabetic lower extremity peripheral artery disease, associated with reduced ankle-brachial index. Knockdown of cZFP609 improved blood flow recovery after hindlimb ischemia in SIRT1-Tg mice. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that SIRT1 may impair the plasticity of VSMCs. cZFP609 mediates VSMCs to reprogram endothelial functions, and serves as a valuable indicator to assess the prognosis and clinical outcomes of ischemic diseases.
Youth Actuarial Risk Assessment Tool (Y-ARAT): The Development of an Actuarial Risk Assessment Instrument for Predicting General Offense Recidivism on the Basis of Police Records

Estimating the risk for recidivism is important for many areas of the criminal justice system. In the present study, the Youth Actuarial Risk Assessment Tool (Y-ARAT) was developed for juvenile offenders based solely on police records, with the aim to estimate the risk of general recidivism among large groups of juvenile offenders by police officers without clinical expertise. On the basis of the Y-ARAT, juvenile offenders are classified into five risk groups based on (combinations of) 10 variables including different types of incidents in which the juvenile was a suspect, total number of incidents in which the juvenile was a suspect, total number of other incidents, total number of incidents in which co-occupants at the youth's address were suspects, gender, and age at first incident. The Y-ARAT was developed on a sample of 2,501 juvenile offenders and validated on another sample of 2,499 juvenile offenders, showing moderate predictive accuracy (area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve = .73), with little variation between the construction and validation sample. The predictive accuracy of the Y-ARAT was considered sufficient to justify its use as a screening instrument for the police.
Utilizing field collected insects for next generation sequencing: Effects of sampling, storage, and DNA extraction methods

Abstract DNA sequencing technologies continue to advance the biological sciences, expanding opportunities for genomic studies of non‐model organisms for basic and applied questions. Despite these opportunities, many next generation sequencing protocols have been developed assuming a substantial quantity of high molecular weight DNA (>100 ng), which can be difficult to obtain for many study systems. In particular, the ability to sequence field‐collected specimens that exhibit varying levels of DNA degradation remains largely unexplored. In this study we investigate the influence of five traditional insect capture and curation methods on Double‐Digest Restriction Enzyme Associated DNA (ddRAD) sequencing success for three wild bee species. We sequenced a total of 105 specimens (between 7–13 specimens per species and treatment). We additionally investigated how different DNA quality metrics (including pre‐sequence concentration and contamination) predicted downstream sequencing success, and also compared two DNA extraction methods. We report successful library preparation for all specimens, with all treatments and extraction methods producing enough highly reliable loci for population genetic analyses. Although results varied between species, we found that specimens collected by net sampling directly into 100% EtOH, or by passive trapping followed by 100% EtOH storage before pinning tended to produce higher quality ddRAD assemblies, likely as a result of rapid specimen desiccation. Surprisingly, we found that specimens preserved in propylene glycol during field sampling exhibited lower‐quality assemblies. We provide recommendations for each treatment, extraction method, and DNA quality assessment, and further encourage researchers to consider utilizing a wider variety of specimens for genomic analyses.
Population genetic structure and adaptive differentiation of iron walnut Juglans regia subsp. sigillata in southwestern China

Abstract Southwestern (SW) China is an area of active tectonism and erosion, yielding a dynamic, deeply eroded landscape that influences the genetic structure of the resident populations of plants and animals. Iron walnut (Juglans regia subsp. sigillata) is a deciduous tree species endemic to this region of China and cultivated there for its edible nuts. We sampled 36 iron walnut populations from locations throughout the species' range in SW China and genotyped a total of 765 individuals at five chloroplast DNA regions and 22 nuclear microsatellite loci. Species distribution models were produced to predict the evolution and historical biogeography of iron walnut and to estimate the impacts of climate oscillations and orographic environments on the species' demography. Our results indicated that J. regia subsp. sigillata had relatively low genetic diversity, high interpopulation genetic differentiation, and asymmetric interpopulation gene flow. Based on DIYABC analysis, we identified two lineages of J. sigillata in southwestern China. The lineages (subpopulations) diverge during the last glacial period (~1.34 Ma). Southwestern China was a glacial refuge during the last glacial period, but increasingly colder and arid climates might have fostered the fragmentation of J. regia subsp. sigillata within this refugium. Finally, we found that recent habitat fragmentation has led to a reduction in population connectivity and increased genetic differentiation by genetic drift in isolated populations. Our results support a conclusion that geological and climatic factors since the Miocene triggered the differentiation, evolutionary origin, and range shifts of J. sigillata in the studied region.
Towards integrating public art in Malaysian urban landscape

The aim of the study was to determine the conditions that facilitate the implementation of online learning technology among faculty members at e-learning centres in Iranian universities. Research sample comprised of 220 faculty members who were randomly selected from nine public universities in Iran. Using the survey methodology, data were gathered through the use of a questionnaire. The questionnaire included the following: (a) 10 items pertaining to demographic information; and (b) 40 items related to Ely’s conditions facilitating technology implementation. The reliability of the scale was . 91. The data were descriptively analyzed in the forms of mean and standard deviation using the Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 16. Findings of the study showed that five conditions, which facilitate implementation of online learning technology, perceived to be present by the faculty members were: (a) dissatisfaction with the status quo, (b) existence of knowledge and skills, (c) availability of time, (d) existence of rewards or incentives, and (e) expected and encouraged participation. From these five conditions, `dissatisfaction with status quo’ was perceived to be the most present condition. On the other hand, three other conditions were perceived to be less present, namely, `commitment by those who are involved’, `leadership’, and `availability of resources’. From these three conditions, `availability of resources’ was perceived to be the most lacking at e-learning centres in Iranian universities.
Understanding Organisational Culture as a Trait Theory

A generic model of organisational culture is developed, which distinguishes between the internal environment (organisational culture, strategy, structure and operations) and external environment (legitimisation environment and task environment) of an organisation and suggests a set of five bipolar traits to characterise the normative personality characteristics of the organisation. The presented generic model of organisational culture integrates so far separate classes of organisation theory and has the potential to serve as a basis for the identification of types of corporate culture and their dysfunctions.