bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circadian regulation of endoplasmic reticulum calcium response in cultured mouse astrocytes
Authors: Ryu Ji Eun , Shim Kyu-Won , Roh Hyun Woong , Park Minsung , Lee Jae-Hyung , Kim Eun Young
Published: November 2024

The circadian clock, an internal time-keeping system orchestrates 24 hr rhythms in physiology and behavior by regulating rhythmic transcription in cells. Astrocytes, the most abundant glial cells, play crucial roles in CNS functions, but the impact of the circadian clock on astrocyte functions remains largely unexplored. In this study, we identified 412 circadian rhythmic transcripts in cultured mouse cortical astrocytes through RNA sequencing. Gene Ontology analysis indicated that genes involved in Ca2+ homeostasis are under circadian control. Notably, Herpud1 (Herp) exhibited robust circadian rhythmicity at both mRNA and protein levels, a rhythm disrupted in astrocytes lacking the circadian transcription factor, BMAL1. HERP regulated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ release by modulating the degradation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (ITPRs). ATP-stimulated ER Ca2+ release varied with the circadian phase, being more pronounced at subjective night phase, likely due to the rhythmic expression of ITPR2. Correspondingly, ATP-stimulated cytosolic Ca2+ increases were heightened at the subjective night phase. This rhythmic ER Ca2+ response led to circadian phase-dependent variations in the phosphorylation of Connexin 43 (Ser368) and gap junctional communication. Given the role of gap junction channel (GJC) in propagating Ca2+ signals, we suggest that this circadian regulation of ER Ca2+ responses could affect astrocytic modulation of synaptic activity according to the time of day. Overall, our study enhances the understanding of how the circadian clock influences astrocyte function in the CNS, shedding light on their potential role in daily variations of brain activity and health.
A comprehensive review of sensor node deployment strategies for maximized coverage and energy efficiency in wireless sensor networks
Authors: P. Anusuya , C. N. Vanitha , Cho Jaehyuk , Veerappampalayam Easwaramoorthy Sathishkumar
Published: November 2024

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) have paved the way for a wide array of applications, forming the backbone of systems like smart cities. These systems support various functions, including healthcare, environmental monitoring, traffic management, and infrastructure monitoring. WSNs consist of multiple interconnected sensor nodes and a base station, creating a network whose performance is heavily influenced by the placement of sensor nodes. Proper deployment is crucial as it maximizes coverage and minimizes unnecessary energy consumption. Ensuring effective sensor node deployment for optimal coverage and energy efficiency remains a significant research gap in WSNs. This review article focuses on optimization strategies for WSN deployment, addressing key research questions related to coverage maximization and energy-efficient algorithms. A common limitation of existing single-objective algorithms is their focus on optimizing either coverage or energy efficiency, but not both. To address this, the article explores a dual-objective optimization approach, formulated as maximizing coverage Max ∑(i = 1) ^ N Ci and minimizing energy consumption Min ∑(i = 1) ^ N Ei for the sensor nodes, to balance both objectives. The review analyses recent algorithms for WSN deployment, evaluates their performance, and provides a comprehensive comparative analysis, offering directions for future research and making a unique contribution to the literature.
Binge drinking among adolescents: the role of stress, problematic internet use, and emotional regulation
Authors: Diaz-Moreno Adrián , Bonilla Iván , Chamarro Andrés , Ballabrera Queralt , Gómez-Romero María José , Griffiths Mark D. , Limonero Joaquín T.
Published: November 2024

Background

Adolescence is a period marked by significant physical, psychological, and emotional changes as youngsters transition into adulthood. During this time, many adolescents consume alcohol, and in some cases, this leads to binge drinking, a behavior associated with various health risks and other problematic behaviors. However, knowledge about binge drinking in this population remains limited. Additionally, many adolescents engage in intensive technology use, which has been linked to mental health issues and substance abuse. Stress is often considered a precursor to both alcohol consumption and problematic internet use. In this context, emotional regulation could serve as a protective factor. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the relationship between stress, problematic internet use, emotional regulation, and binge drinking among adolescents using structural equation modeling.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was completed by a sample of 876 high school adolescents (63.57% female, mean age 16.86 years). Data were collected using an online survey, which included sociodemographic information and measures of perceived stress, emotional regulation, excessive alcohol consumption, and problematic internet use. Problematic alcohol use was assessed using several questions adapted from the ‘Survey on Drug Use in Secondary Education in Spain’.

Results

Problematic internet use emerged as a mediator between stress and binge drinking, suggesting that stress contributes to the development of problematic internet use, which in turn increases the likelihood of binge drinking. Furthermore, stress was negatively correlated with emotional regulation, indicating that inadequate emotional management may predispose adolescents to problematic internet use and binge drinking. The complex interplay between stress, emotional regulation, problematic internet use, and binge drinking underscores the need for comprehensive interventions targeting these factors among adolescents.

Conclusions

The results provide insights into potential pathways linking stress and binge drinking via problematic internet use and highlight the importance of emotional regulation as a protective mechanism against maladaptive behaviors.
Comparison of the performances of six empirical mass transfer-based reference evapotranspiration estimation models in semi-arid conditions
Authors: Usta Selçuk
Published: November 2024

Background

Accurately measured or estimated reference evapotranspiration (ETo) data are needed to properly manage water resources and prioritise their future uses. ETo can be most accurately measured using lysimeter systems. However, high installation and operating costs, as well as difficult and time-consuming measurement processes limit the use of these systems. Therefore, the approach of estimating ETo by empirical models is more preferred and widely used. However, since those models are well in accordance with the climatic and environmental traits of the region in which they were developed, their reliability must be examined if they are utilised in distinctive regions. This study aims to test the usability of mass transfer-based Dalton, Rohwer, Penman, Romanenko, WMO and Mahringer models in Van Lake microclimate conditions and to calibrate them in compatible with local conditions.

Methods

Firstly, the original equations of these models were tested using 9 years of daily climate data measured between 2012 and 2020. Then, the models were calibrated using the same data and their modified equations were created. The original and modified equations of the models were also tested with the 2021 and 2022 current climate data. Modified equations have been created using the Microsoft Excel program solver add-on, which is based on linear regression. The daily average ETo values estimated using the six mass transfer-based models were compared with the daily average ETo values calculated using the standard FAO-56 PM equation. The statistical approaches of the mean absolute error (MAE), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), root mean square error (RMSE), Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), and determination coefficient (R2) were used as comparison criterion.

Results

The best and worst performing models in the original equations were Mahringer (MAE = 0.70 mm day−1, MAPE = 15.86%, RMSE = 0.87 mm day−1, NSE = 0.81, R2 = 0.94) and Penman (MAE = 1.84 mm day−1, MAPE = 33.68%, RMSE = 2.39 mm day−1, NSE = −0.49, R2 = 0.91), respectively, whereas in the modified equations Dalton (MAE = 0.29 mm day−1, MAPE = 7.51%, RMSE = 0.33 mm day−1, NSE = 0.97, R2 = 0.97) and WMO (MAE = 0.36 mm day−1, MAPE = 8.89%, RMSE = 0.43 mm day−1, NSE = 0.95, R2 = 0.97). The RMSE errors of the daily average ETo values estimated using the modified equations were generally below the acceptable error limit (RMSE < 0.50 mm day−1). It has been concluded that the modified equations of the six mass transfer-based models can be used as alternatives to the FAO-56 PM equation under the Van Lake microclimate conditions (NSE > 0.75), while the original equations—except for those of Mahringer (NSE = 0.81), WMO (NSE = 0.79), and Romanenko (NSE = 0.76)—cannot be used.
Post-vaccination Alteration in Meningococcal Disease Rate in the US from 1980-2019
Authors: Khan Sarah , Arsalan Farah , Igman Pamphil , Khan Abrar , Goyette Sandy , Naqvi Zahra , Bhat Malpe Surekha , Mishra Tulika
Published: November 2024

Aim: To study the impact of vaccination on Meningococcal infection in the United States from 1980 to 2019.
Study Design: The study used deidentified publicly available data.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Anatomical & Developmental Sciences, and Pathological Processes, Microbiology & Immunology, Department of Preventive Medicine & Epidemiology, Department of Nutritional, Biochemical & Molecular Sciences American University, School of Medicine, Aruba, Between July 2023 to September 2023.
Methodology: All analyses for this study were conducted using The Health, United States Data Finder, Center for Disease Control, which provides detailed trend tables and charts for recent editions of Health, United States. All the data was collected and compared year-wise, age-wise, and new cases of meningococcal infection per 100,000 population. The data was also compared concerning the year of initiation of the vaccine.
Results: With time, it was observed that the cases of meningococcal infection declined. The rate was found to be higher with the initiation of vaccination.
Conclusion: Stringent vaccination, surveillance, and timely use of antibiotics in the United States contributed to the drop in instances of meningococcal infection. However, the recent outbreak in Florida could be due to negligence among the people.
ASSISTIR JUNTOS, À DISTÂNCIA: CINECLUBISMO E PLATAFORMAS DIGITAIS NO CONTEXTO DA PANDEMIA DE COVID-19
Authors: Guimarães Blunck Schuina Lucas , Zanetti Daniela
Published: November 2024

O artigo apresenta os resultados de uma pesquisa sobre as ações on-line de cineclubes do estado do Espírito Santo durante a pandemia de covid-19. Nas primeiras seções, apresentamos alguns trabalhos relacionados à nossa pesquisa, e dissertamos sobre as relações entre cineclubismo, cultura audiovisual em rede e território. Mais à frente, são disponibilizados os dados coletados em pesquisa documental e entrevistas em profundidade com representantes de cinco cineclubes. O estudo conseguiu identificar 117 cineclubes que atuaram no Espírito Santo entre 2003 e 2022, sendo que 29 deles tiveram atividades pela internet durante a pandemia. Por fim, concluímos que a tendência dos cineclubes no pós pandemia é focar em encontros presenciais, na contramão da conectividade excessiva.
Direito Ambiental E Governança Corporativa: A Influência Das Normas Ambientais Nas Estratégias De Sustentabilidade Das Organizações
Authors: Braga Alinne Nauane Espindola , Ayoub Julianno Pizzano , Oliveira Marcel Ricardo Nogueira De , Sousa Adriana Da Costa , Brito Clara Rodrigues De
Published: November 2024

A pesquisa investigou a influência do Direito Ambiental na adoção de práticas sustentáveis nas organizações. O
objetivo foi analisar como as regulamentações ambientais promovem a sustentabilidade organizacional. A
metodologia adotou uma abordagem bibliográfica, revisando artigos científicos, livros e documentos relevantes
sobre o Direito Ambiental e práticas sustentáveis, com uma análise qualitativa dos dados coletados para entender
a aplicação e impacto das normas. Os resultados revelaram que o Direito Ambiental é crucial para orientar as
empresas na redução dos impactos ambientais, fornecendo tanto regulamentações obrigatórias quanto
incentivos, como benefícios fiscais e subsídios, para promover a adoção de tecnologias e processos mais verdes.
A análise indicou que, além de cumprir as exigências legais, as empresas enfrentam desafios como custos
elevados e resistência à mudança, mas que a transparência e a inovação são essenciais para superar essas
barreiras e gerar vantagens competitivas. A conclusão reforça que o Direito Ambiental não apenas estabelece um quadro regulatório, mas também facilita a mudança cultural e estratégica necessária para um desenvolvimento sustentável, evidenciando a importância da integração da sustentabilidade nas estratégiascorporativas para garantir a preservação dos recursos naturais e a justiça social.
Islamic Banking Activities In Conventional Banks Of Bangladesh: Problems And Prospects
Authors: Islam Mohammad Khirul , Yeakub Md.
Published: November 2024

Islamic financial system cum Islamic banking system is connected with the life of every Muslim. Because zakat
system, Business and Miraj law is an important subject of business Islam. The Prophet (S.M.) himself traded
Modaraba with Khadijah (RA). Most of the working methods of the current Islamic banks were during the era
of Rasul (S.M.) informally. After the establishment of Islamic Bank, all Muslims and even non-Muslims are
vulnerable and interested in its transparency, good systems and procedures. Gradually, seeing the success of
this method, conventional banks also started Islamic banking activities. But some problems of their
management, some problems of customers and some mixed reactions of Shariah can be observed. As a result,
there is a deficiency in the perfection of the great thinking like Islamic banking in the Islamic financial system.
In this research, there has been a discussion about the solution of all the issues including the systematic errors of these conventional Islamic banking activities, inconsistencies in management, customers' complaints and views and needs. We hope that there will be a great development in the Islamic banking sector
Formação De Professores Da Educação Do Campo: Metodologias Ativas E Tecnologias Digitais No Ensino De Ciências Naturais
Authors: Medeiros Cleuton Veras De
Published: November 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar as contribuições da formação continuada de professores de ciências
naturais no contexto da educação do campo, com foco na utilização de metodologias ativas e tecnologias digitais.
A pesquisa, de natureza qualitativa e descritiva, foi realizada na EEM Francisco de Araújo Barros, localizada
em Itarema, Ceará, e envolveu a participação de três professores da área de ciências naturais. Através de
entrevistas semiestruturadas e observações diretas, o estudo investigou como a formação continuada, aliada ao
uso de metodologias como a Aprendizagem Baseada em Problemas (PBL) e recursos tecnológicos, contribuiu
para a melhoria da prática pedagógica e o engajamento dos alunos. Os resultados indicaram que a
implementação das metodologias ativas e o uso de tecnologias digitais teve um impacto positivo no aprendizado
dos alunos, especialmente no que diz respeito ao aumento da participação e autonomia dos estudantes. No
entanto, a pesquisa também revelou desafios significativos relacionados à infraestrutura escolar, como a falta
de dispositivos adequados e a instabilidade da internet, que prejudicaram a aplicação plena das novas
abordagens. Conclui-se que a formação continuada deve ser alinhada às especificidades do contexto rural e acompanhada de investimentos em infraestrutura, para garantir que as metodologias ativas e as tecnologias digitais sejam implementadas de forma eficaz e sustentada
Direito Administrativo E A Aplicabilidade Da Inteligência Artificial No Setor Público
Authors: Oliveira Ana Karoliny Freitas De , Branco Daiane Da Silva Algarves Castelo , Ximenes Josireni Valéria , Costa Joao Maria Macedo Da , Saraiva Piedley Macedo
Published: November 2024

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar o uso da inteligência artificial (IA) no setor público, com foco no direito
administrativo, a fim de compreender suas implicações na gestão pública e identificar desafios e oportunidades
para sua implementação. A metodologia adotada foi exploratória e descritiva, com uma abordagem qualitativa,
e a amostra foi composta por quinze profissionais especializados. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de
entrevistas em profundidade, e os dados foram analisados utilizando a técnica da análise do discurso. Os
resultados indicaram que a IA tem grande potencial para melhorar a eficiência administrativa, automatizando
processos e liberando recursos para atividades mais estratégicas. Contudo, a pesquisa também revelou desafios
significativos, como a resistência à adoção da tecnologia, a falta de capacitação dos servidores e a necessidade de maior transparência e supervisão dos processos automatizados. A questão da responsabilidade legal e da
Desafios E Perspectivas Na Construção Curricular No Contexto Educacional: Uma Análise Da Literatura
Authors: Cavalcante Tobias Saraiva , Costa Alcione Antunes Pereira , De Leão Anne Ariadne Alves Menezes Ponce , Oliveira Tiago Luz De , Gonçalves Maurilho De Lima
Published: November 2024

Background: A construção curricular é um processo dinâmico que reflete as demandas sociais, políticas e
econômicas de uma sociedade em constante transformação. Ao longo da história, diferentes abordagens
curriculares têm disputado espaço, desde perspectivas tradicionais, orientadas pela padronização de objetivos
educacionais e eficiência, até teorias críticas que defendem uma educação dialógica, emancipadora e
contextualizada (Freire, 1970; Apple, 2004). Este estudo busca explorar os desafios e as perspectivas na
construção de currículos contemporâneos, destacando as inovações e adaptações necessárias para responder
às demandas sociais, tecnológicas e culturais atuais.
Materials and Methods: Com base em uma abordagem qualitativa e exploratória, o estudo utiliza uma revisão
teórica e análise crítica da literatura, abordando diferentes perspectivas curriculares em textos clássicos e
contemporâneos. A análise foca nas tensões entre abordagens tradicionais e críticas, além de temas atuais
como a flexibilidade curricular, interdisciplinaridade, competências socioemocionais e o impacto das
tecnologias digitais na educação.
Results: Os resultados indicam que a flexibilidade curricular é uma exigência para adaptar o ensino às rápidas
mudanças sociais e tecnológicas, enquanto a interdisciplinaridade favorece uma aprendizagem integrada e
significativa. Competências socioemocionais são essenciais para preparar os alunos para os desafios do século
XXI, e as tecnologias digitais oferecem novas possibilidades para personalizar o ensino. No entanto, desafios
como resistências culturais, recursos limitados e a necessidade de capacitação docente ainda representam
barreiras significativas. Conclusion: A construção curricular contemporânea exige um esforço coletivo para superar barreiras, integrar inovações e promover práticas que garantam uma educação crítica, inclusiva e adaptável às demandas de um mundo em constante mudança
A Auditoria Operacional No Tribunal De Contas Do Estado Do Amazonas: Um Estudo No Período De 2019 A 2023
Authors: Ferreira Jackeline De Souza , Ferret Clairton Fontoura , Lima Orlem Pinheiro De , Maduro Márcia Ribeiro , Filho Wlademir Leite Correia , Diniz Paulo César
Published: November 2024

Este estudo tem por objetivo analisar a abordagem das auditorias operacionais realizadas pelo Tribunal de
Contas do Estado do Amazonas (TCE/AM), quanto aos métodos e técnicas adotados e à utilização dos princípios
de desempenho (economicidade, eficiência, eficácia e efetividade). Por meio de uma pesquisa descritiva e
qualitativa, baseada na análise de conteúdo de 10 relatórios de auditoria operacional, constatou-se que a
abordagem adotada pelo TCE/AM é orientada a resultados, pois examina o alcance eficaz dos objetivos e metas
traçados. Quanto aos métodos de coleta empregados nas auditorias, muito utiliza-se do exame documental, das
entrevistas e da observação direta, enquanto nos métodos de análise de dados, a análise de conteúdo e de
triangulação são mais frequentes. Por outro lado, as técnicas de auditoria mais utilizadas são as de Stakeholder
e Matriz de Risco. Conclui-se que existe uma predominância na utilização do princípio da eficácia na composição
das auditorias operacionais do TCE/AM, enquanto o princípio da economicidade raramente é aplicado. Assim,
o estudo contribui para o aprofundamento das discussões sobre a auditoria operacional no âmbito do controle externo e oferece subsídios para aprimorar a fiscalização da gestão pública, com oportunidades de melhoria em relação ao escopo das análises e à inclusão de outros princípios de desempenho
A Identidade Da Pessoa Com Deficiência E Os Reflexos Da Teoria Da Vida Nua No Direito Da Personalidade Na Contemporaneidade
Authors: Almeida Dr. Fernando Rodrigues De , Araújo Helber Riberiro
Published: November 2024

This article investigates the relationship between the personality rights of persons with disabilities and Giorgio
Agamben's theories of "bare life" and "homo sacer," analysing how the social marginalisation of these individuals
reflects the inclusive exclusion and extreme vulnerability described by Agamben. Employing a deductive
methodology based on qualitative and bibliographic research, the study explores the historical and philosophical
evolution of the marginalisation of persons with disabilities, from the traditional medical model to the emergence
of an approach rooted in personality rights. The paper examines the contradictions between legislative advances,
such as the Statute for Persons with Disabilities, and the persistence of ableist practices that perpetuate inequality
and exclusion. The findings indicate that, despite significant legal progress, gaps remain that keep persons with disabilities in a state of legal and social vulnerability, underscoring the need for an expanded hermeneutic application prioritising human dignity and individual autonomy.
Disclosing The Intersectional Stories Of Resistance And Empowerment In Dalit Feminism And Autobiographies
Authors: Pawar Jaya , Supriya Dr.
Published: November 2024

In India, where caste and gender intersect, dalit feminism has developed into a powerful movement that opposes
and overthrows the oppressive structures of the nation's long-standing patriarchal culture. This abstract aims to
investigate the significance of autobiographical narratives in Dalit feminism by showcasing the unique voices
and experiences of Dalit women who have used their own tales as a means of resistance, empowerment, and
social change. Dalit feminism highlights the interconnectedness of caste, class, and gender while also
highlighting the specific forms of violence and discrimination faced by Dalit women. These women experience
several forms of oppression, with caste and gender identity interacting to shape their experiences with violence,
exclusion, and discrimination. Autobiographies have been essential in helping Dalit women to express their lived
experiences, challenge prevailing narratives, and rewrite their own self-identity stories.This abstract looks at
Dalit autobiographies in order to investigate the many themes and narratives that appear in these literary works.
These memoirs offer insightful perspectives into the complexities of Dalit women's life by capturing their
experiences in a variety of geographical locations, religious traditions, and sociopolitical circumstances. In
addition to highlighting Dalit women's tenacity, courage, and agency in the face of adversity, the narratives
frequently reveal how they battle caste-based prejudice, gender-based abuse, and systematic injustice.This
abstract makes the case that Dalit autobiographies are effective vehicles for social change and the empowerment of Dalit women. They give Dalit women a platform to reclaim their histories, contest prevailing myths, and promote solidarity
Crop Intensification Assessment On Soil-Health, Nutrent Quality And Profitability Of Irrigated Watermelon In Gashua, Nigeria
Authors: I.J Dantata, , I Alhassan, , O. S Adewale, , P. R Waziri-Ugwu, , E Peter,
Published: November 2024

This study evaluated the influence of varying rates of organic inputs, specifically cow dung and poultry droppings
(COPODs), alongside different plant spacings and watermelon varieties, on soil quality, fruit nutrient content
(NPK), and profitability in Gashua, Nigeria. The factorial design incorporated four COPODs application rates
(0, 4t+1t, 8t+2t, 12t+3t), four planting distances (25, 50, 75 and 100 cm), and four watermelon varieties (Sugar
baby, Koalack, Royal sweet, and Paradise). Soil samples collected at both the start and end of the experiment
helped assess the impacts on soil properties, while a profitability analysis determined the economic viability of
each treatment. The results showed that higher COPOD levels led to increased nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potassium concentrations in watermelon fruits, with wider spacing promoting more efficient nutrient uptake.
Among the varieties, Koalack exhibited superior nutrient absorption at all spacing levels. Furthermore,
combining the 8t+2t COPOD rate with a 100 cm spacing provided the highest profit margin. This research highlights the critical role of optimizing organic input levels and plant spacing for sustainable, high-quality watermelon production, particularly in semi-arid climates like Gashua
An Empirical Evaluation Of The Effect Of Investment Strategy And Corporate Governance On Financial Performance Of Pension Funds In Kenya
Authors: Akwimbi William , Ochieng Duncan , Lishenga Josephat , Ogutu Martin
Published: November 2024

The study examined the effect of investment strategy (IS) and corporate governance (CG) on the financial
performance of pension schemes in Kenya thereby addressing the key research question: What is the effect of IS
and CG on the financial performance of pension funds in Kenya? Qualitative, quantitative and correlational
research designs were used to assess the effect of these factors on financial performance of pension funds.
Quantitative data on annual return of pension funds from 2012 to 2020 as well as qualitative data on CG
indicators and IS were used in the study. Return on investments proxied pension fund performance. Primary data
was collected using survey questionnaires from the pension schemes from the CG and IS indicators to develop
both CG and IS indices. The findings show that CG as well as IS impact differently pension funding. Effect of CG
indicators on pension performance was positive and significant. The intervening effect of IS on the link between
CG and pension performance was significant. The individual contribution of CG indicators on pension
performance, nonetheless varied. The main conclusion of the study is that pension fund financial performance is
influenced by both CG and IS implying that there is need to take into account the effect of these factors in the execution of investment plans of pension funds to ensure generation of adequate funds for retirement benefits
Accuracy of low‐dose proton CT image registration for pretreatment alignment verification in reference to planning proton CT
Authors: Cassetta Roberto , Piersimoni Pierluigi , Riboldi Marco , Giacometti Valentina , Bashkirov Vladmir , Baroni Guido , Ordonez Caesar , Coutrakon George , Schulte Reinhard
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Proton CT (pCT) has the ability to reduce inherent uncertainties in proton treatment by directly measuring the relative proton stopping power with respect to water, thereby avoiding the uncertain conversion of X‐ray CT Hounsfield unit to relative stopping power and the deleterious effect of X‐ ray CT artifacts. The purpose of this work was to further evaluate the potential of pCT for pretreatment positioning using experimental pCT data of a head phantom.

Methods

The performance of a 3D image registration algorithm was tested with pCT reconstructions of a pediatric head phantom. A planning pCT simulation scan of the phantom was obtained with 200 MeV protons and reconstructed with a 3D filtered back projection (FBP) algorithm followed by iterative reconstruction and a representative pretreatment pCT scan was reconstructed with FBP only to save reconstruction time. The pretreatment pCT scan was rigidly transformed by prescribing random errors with six degrees of freedom or deformed by the deformation field derived from a head and neck cancer patient to the pretreatment pCT reconstruction, respectively. After applying the rigid or deformable image registration algorithm to retrieve the original pCT image before transformation, the accuracy of the registration was assessed. To simulate very low‐dose imaging for patient setup, the proton CT images were reconstructed with 100%, 50%, 25%, and 12.5% of the total number of histories of the original planning pCT simulation scan, respectively.

Results

The residual errors in image registration were lower than 1 mm and 1° of magnitude regardless of the anatomic directions and imaging dose. The mean residual errors ranges found for rigid image registration were from −0.29 ± 0.09 to 0.51 ± 0.50 mm for translations and from −0.05 ± 0.13 to 0.08 ± 0.08 degrees for rotations. The percentages of sub‐millimetric errors found, for deformable image registration, were between 63.5% and 100%.

Conclusion

This experimental head phantom study demonstrated the potential of low‐dose pCT imaging for 3D image registration. Further work is needed to confirm the value pCT for pretreatment image‐guided proton therapy.
Prologue: A Shared Practice
Authors: Boddington Anne
Published: April 2019

Architectural research is of little value in isolation: it should serve to broaden and deepen the knowledge base of the profession. Anne Boddington – chair of the art and design sub‐panel of the Research Excellence Framework, which assesses research quality in UK higher‐education institutions – considers how this can be achieved by breaking boundaries both within practice itself and between practice and academia, including through newly instated graduate apprenticeships.
Spanning Continuums: Addressing the Separation of Research and Practice in Architecture
Authors: van Schaik Leon
Published: April 2019

How did the artificial division arise between research and practice in architecture, why is it a problem, and how can it be reversed? The RMIT University School of Architecture and Urban Design in Melbourne, Australia has been pioneering practice‐embedded research for three decades, with a PhD programme that has inspired similar approaches at other institutions across the world. Having identified five continuums between research and practice that are required to maximise the potential of architecture, Emeritus Professor Leon van Schaik, who initiated the programme, explores its impact through the work of some of its participants.
Nature‐Inspired Strategy for Anticorrosion
Authors: Cui Miaomiao , Wang Bin , Wang Zuankai
Published: April 2019

Materials corrosion is a natural and ubiquitous interfacial process, but is essential to numerous industrial processes. Progress in industrial and material innovations is also marked by developments in search of new solutions to design materials with better anticorrosion activity and longer service lifetime. In particular, recent blossoming in biomimetics has provided remarkable inspirations to design new artificial, passive anticorrosion coatings which are environmentally benign and functional versatile. In this review, the authors first formulate three key design components that underlie the construction of an ideal protective coating, that is, the functional barrier at the coating surface, the transport control of corrosive substances inside the coating, as well as interfacial bonding between the passive coating and the substrate. Then, the authors take a parallel approach to elaborate inspirations from nature and review recent progress in mimicking nature. At last, the authors offer perspectives on the design and development of novel engineered, high‐performance anticorrosion coatings.
Construction of Nanozyme‐Hydrogel for Enhanced Capture and Elimination of Bacteria
Authors: Sang Yanjuan , Li Wei , Liu Hao , Zhang Lu , Wang Huan , Liu Zhengwei , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: April 2019

The widespread multidrug resistance resulting from the abuse of antibiotics motivates researchers to explore alternative methods to treat bacterial infections. Recently, the emergence of nanozymes has provided a potential approach to combat bacteria. Such nanozymes can mimic the functions of natural enzymes to induce the production of highly toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) as an antibacterial. However, the lack of effective interaction between nanozymes and bacteria, and the intrinsic short lifetime and diffusion distance of ROS greatly compromise their bactericidal activity. Furthermore, the dead bacteria left in the infected area can give rise to unexpected tissue inflammation. Herein, for the first time, a nanozyme‐hydrogel is constructed to realize reinforced antibacterials. The nanozyme‐hydrogel with the traits of positive charge and macropore can capture and restrict bacteria in the range of ROS destruction. Significantly, by combining the near‐infrared photothermal property of nanozymes, the nanozyme‐hydrogel can achieve a synergistic bactericidal effect. More importantly, the nanozyme‐hydrogel can eliminate bacteria and reduce the risk of inflammation. In consequence, the current work manifests an original strategy to improve the antibacterial performance of nanozymes, concurrently promote wound healing.
Modern Scattering‐Type Scanning Near‐Field Optical Microscopy for Advanced Material Research
Authors: Chen Xinzhong , Hu Debo , Mescall Ryan , You Guanjun , Basov D. N. , Dai Qing , Liu Mengkun
Published: April 2019

Infrared and optical spectroscopy represents one of the most informative methods in advanced materials research. As an important branch of modern optical techniques that has blossomed in the past decade, scattering‐type scanning near‐field optical microscopy (s‐SNOM) promises deterministic characterization of optical properties over a broad spectral range at the nanoscale. It allows ultrabroadband optical (0.5–3000 µm) nanoimaging, and nanospectroscopy with fine spatial (<10 nm), spectral (<1 cm−1), and temporal (<10 fs) resolution. The history of s‐SNOM is briefly introduced and recent advances which broaden the horizons of this technique in novel material research are summarized. In particular, this includes the pioneering efforts to study the nanoscale electrodynamic properties of plasmonic metamaterials, strongly correlated quantum materials, and polaritonic systems at room or cryogenic temperatures. Technical details, theoretical modeling, and new experimental methods are also discussed extensively, aiming to identify clear technology trends and unsolved challenges in this exciting field of research.
Möglichkeiten und Limitierungen verschiedener Trenntechniken zur Analyse der Proteinkorona
Authors: Weber Claudia , Morsbach Svenja , Landfester Katharina
Published: April 2019

Die gebildete Proteinkorona ist für das Verhalten von Nanoträgern im biologischen System mitverantwortlich. Die Aufklärung der Bildung und des Einflusses der Proteinkorona auf die biologische Antwort ist daher entscheidend. Ergebnisse der Proteinkorona‐Charakterisierung können jedoch nicht ohne Weiteres untereinander verglichen werden, da es zahlreiche verschiedene Verfahren zur Probenvorbereitung gibt, die jeweils für unterschiedliche Materialien und Fragestellungen geeignet sind. Abhängig von der verwendeten Methode wird der Nanoträger‐Protein‐Komplex auf bestimmte Weise verändert, sodass der individuelle Einfluss der Probenvorbereitung auf die Proteinkorona berücksichtigt werden muss. Ziel dieses Kurzaufsatzes ist es daher, einen Überblick über Probevorbereitungsverfahren für die Analyse der Proteinkorona zu geben und ihren Einfluss auf das Ergebnis zu beurteilen, besonders im Hinblick auf die eingeführten Begriffe “weiche” und “harte” Proteinkorona. Im Fokus liegen dabei vor allem die am häufigsten verwendeten Techniken wie Zentrifugation, magnetische sowie chromatographische Trennungen.
Nanocomposites based on epoxidized poly(styrene‐co‐butadiene) rubber and graphene nanoplatelets
Authors: Kumar Vineet , Schneider Uwe , Rose Viktor , Giese Ulrich
Published: April 2019

Nanofillers play as reinforcing agents of the polymer matrix. The reinforcement and dynamic mechanical properties of nanocomposites based on filled epoxidized‐poly(styrene‐co‐butadiene) rubber are investigated. The modification of the polymer matrix allows improvement in polymer–filler interaction, and thus the mechanical properties of the vulcanizates. Here, the rubber was modified by introducing the epoxy functional groups in the matrix. The quantification for epoxidation rate was analyzed by means of NMR and ~8.8% epoxidation was optimized. The nanocomposites were prepared by melt‐mixing technique. The influence of rubber epoxidation in enhancing dynamic mechanical and thermal properties was demonstrated. Stable filler networking using exfoliated graphene nanoplatelets (xg C750) and carbon black (CB‐N234) in epoxidized rubber is described through multihysteresis measurements. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47802.
Metal‐containing Ionic Liquid/Polyacrylonitrile‐derived Carbon Nanofibers for Oxygen Reduction Reaction and Flexible Zn–Air Battery
Authors: Wang Cancan , Li Qi , Guo Jiangna , Ren Yongyuan , Zhang Juewen , Yan Feng
Published: April 2019

Practical applications of Zn–air batteries are usually limited by sluggish kinetics of oxygen reduction reaction. Replacing Pt‐based catalysts with convenient, efficient and low‐cost materials to boost oxygen reduction reaction is highly desirable. Herein, a class of Fe−N co‐doped carbon nanofibers is successfully synthesized by pyrolysis of polyacrylonitrile/metal‐containing ionic liquid‐based electrospun films. The ionic liquids act as porogen to provide multiscale pores as well as activator to bring carbon nanofibers active sites. The catalyst possessing appropriate active sites and unique 3D porous architecture exhibits remarkable long‐term stability and electrocatalytic activity. Particularly, the catalyst maintains a shape of membrane after carbonization, manifesting its direct use as air electrode without binders. It is notable that an all solid‐state Zn–air battery based on the carbon nanofibers exhibits good flexibility, indicating its promising application as wearable devices.
Rolled‐Up Monolayer Graphene Tubular Micromotors: Enhanced Performance and Antibacterial Property
Authors: Zhang Biran , Huang Gaoshan , Wang Lu , Wang Tianbo , Liu Lu , Di Zengfeng , Liu Xuanyong , Mei Yongfeng
Published: April 2019

The motion of catalytic tubular micromotors are driven by the oxygen bubbles generated from chemical reaction and is influenced by the resistance from the liquid environment. Herein, we fabricated a rolled‐up graphene tubular micromotor, in which the graphene layer was adopted as the outmost surface. Due to the hydrophobic property of the graphene layer, the fabricated micromotor performed a motion pattern that could escape from the attraction from the bubbles. In addition, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus culture experiments proved that the graphene outer surface displays antibacterial property. Considering the bubble‐avoiding and antibacterial properties, the rolled‐up graphene tubular micromotor holds great potential for various applications such as in vivo drug delivery and biosensors.
Diastereoselective Total Syntheses of (±)‐Caseabalansin A and (±)‐18‐Epicaseabalansin A via Intramolecular Robinson‐type Annulation
Authors: Okutomi Naoto , Matsuzawa Akinobu , Sugita Kazuyuki
Published: April 2019

Highly diastereoselective total syntheses of (±)‐caseabalansin A (1) and (±)‐18‐epicaseabalansin A (2) are described in this paper. We revealed that the intramolecular Robinson‐type annulation of an alkynone was effective in the stereocontrolled construction of the bicyclic skeleton of 1 and 2. Further transformation of the resulting enone, including diastereoselective reduction by LiAlH(OtBu)3, hydroxy‐group‐directed hydrogenation, cyclization to form the cyclic acetal moiety, and introduction of a side chain by a C(sp3)−C(sp3) Stille coupling reaction, resulted in the total syntheses of (±)‐1 and (±)‐2.
Batteries & Supercaps: Making a Better Tomorrow
Authors: Chen Jun
Published: April 2019

Professor Jun Chen
is an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Dean of College of Chemistry (Nankai University), the Director of the Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education), President of the Chinese Electrochemistry Society, and one of the Editorial Board Members of Batteries & Supercaps.
Improvement of the acid resistance, catalytic efficiency, and thermostability of nattokinase by multisite‐directed mutagenesis
Authors: Liu Zhongmei , Zhao Han , Han Laichuang , Cui Wenjing , Zhou Li , Zhou Zhemin
Published: April 2019

Nattokinase (NK) is a serine protease of the subtilisin family; as a potent fibrinolytic enzyme, it is potentially useful for thrombosis therapy. For NK to be applied as an oral medicine for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, it must overcome the extremely acidic environments of the gastrointestinal tract despite its limited acidic stability. In this study, three strategies were adopted to improve the acid resistance of NK: (a) Surface charge engineering, (b) sequence alignment, and (c) mutation based on the literature. Eleven variants were constructed and four single‐point mutations were screened out for their distinctive catalytic properties: Q59E increased the specific activity; S78T improved the acid stability; Y217K enhanced the acid and thermal stabilities; and N218D improved the thermostability. Based on these observations, multipoint variants were constructed and characterized, and one variant with better acid stability, catalytic efficiency, and thermostability was obtained. Molecular dynamics simulation was carried out to clarify the molecular mechanism of the increased stability of S78T and Y217K mutants under acidic conditions. This study explored effective strategies to engineer acid resistance of NK; moreover, the NK variants with better catalytic properties found in this study have potential applications for the medical industry.
Sustainable financing practices through green bonds: What affects the funding size?
Authors: Barua Suborna , Chiesa Micol
Published: April 2019

Financing through the supply‐driven green bonds market has significantly surged in recent years. In this paper, we examine the factors influencing the size of financing though green bond supply, using cross‐section OLS regressions on a global dataset for 8 years (2010–2017) sourced from Bloomberg. We consider a set of tridimensional factors: bond characteristics, issuer characteristics, and market characteristics and examine their effects on issue size. Alongside whole sample estimation, we produce year‐wise estimations to realize the evolution and persistence of the effects over time. We then produce estimates across rating grades of the bonds. Finally, we carry Blinder–Oaxaca decomposition to see if average issue size has significantly changed over time and whether the factors considered can explain the difference. We find a large number of factors affecting issue size asymmetrically; however, many of the effects do not persist over time and are heterogeneous across rating grades. In contrast to the aggregate market trend, we find no evidence of increases in average issue size in the recent year. Furthermore, the average financing size is found significantly lower for high‐grade bonds. The paper provides a basis for encouraging green bond supply, particularly considering the rating of the bonds and the issuers.
Clinical outcomes of percutaneous mitral valve repair with MitraClip for the management of functional mitral regurgitation
Authors: Marmagkiolis Konstantinos , Hakeem Abdul , Ebersole Douglas G. , Iliescu Cezar , Ates Ismail , Cilingiroglu Mehmet
Published: April 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of percutaneous mitral valve repair for the management of functional mitral insufficiency.

Background

Severe FMR is present in 25–30% of patients with heart failure and is an independent predictor of mortality and hospitalizations in patients with both ischemic and nonischemic cardiomyopathy. MitraClip therapy has been approved for high surgical risk patients with primary mitral regurgitation. Recent studies including two randomized trials have yielded conflicting results in terms of its clinical efficacy and outcomes for FMR. A quantitative evaluation and synthesis of this information are essential in elucidating the role of MitraClip repair for FMR.

Methods

We performed a literature search using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from September 2008 to September 2018. Studies comparing percutaneous mitral valve repair using the MitraClip device against conservative therapy for the management of functional mitral regurgitation were included.

Results

Seven studies with 1,174 patients in MitraClip group and 1,015 patients in medical therapy group met inclusion criteria. The 12‐month mortality in the MitraClip group was 18.4% compared with 25.9% in the medical therapy group (odds ratio [OR]: 0.65 [0.50, 0.86]; p < .002). The rate of readmission at 12 months was 29.9% in the MitraClip group compared with 54.1% in the medical therapy group (OR: 040 [0.32–0.49]; p < .0001. The prognostic efficacy of MitraClip repair appears to be more substantial over longer follow‐up period over medical therapy alone.

Conclusions

Based on the results of this meta‐analysis, percutaneous mitral valve repair with MitraClip appears to be superior to medical therapy for symptomatic moderate‐to‐severe functional mitral insufficiency. Further clinical research is needed to identify the ideal patient subgroups who receive maximum benefit with the MitraClip therapy.
Versatile and Homogeneous DNA Tetraplex Platform for Constructing Label‐Free Logic Devices: From Design to Application
Authors: Huang Dan , Yang Chunrong , Yao Ye , Li Jicheng , Guo Chen , Chen Jianchi , Zhang Yi , Yang Shu , Yang Qianfan , Tang Yalin
Published: April 2019

The design of DNA‐based logic circuits has become an active research field in DNA nanotechnology and holds great potential in intelligent bioanalysis. To date, although many DNA‐based logic systems have been realized, the implementation of advanced logic functions is still challenging, especially with simple and homogeneous compositions. Herein, by integrating two DNA tetraplex structures (G‐quadruplex and i‐motif), a completely label‐free logic platform with high scalability was established, with which a series of advanced functions were realized, including arithmetic (adders and subtractors) and nonarithmetic ones (majority and dual‐transfer gates). Furthermore, the platform was also applied as an intelligent biosensor to coanalyze two cancer‐related micro‐RNAs with high sensitivities and specificities. Considering the excellent versatility, expandability, and biocompatibility, the platform may promote the development of DNA computing and hold great potential in multiparameter sensing and medical diagnosis.