bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Covalent organic polyrotaxanes based on β-cyclodextrin for iodine capture
Authors: Guo Xia , Yu Jie , Ma Lianru , Yuan Jingsong , Guo Taoyan , Ma Yingying , Xiao Shengshun , Bai Jingkun , Zhou Baolong
Published: September 2024

Covalent organic polyrotaxanes (COPRs) were concurrently prepared via the integration of dynamic covalent imine-bond formation with supramolecular self-assembly and targeted introduction of β-cyclodextrin into the three-dimensional porous skeleton.
Significant effects of negligible amount of H2O2 on photocatalytic efficiency of MIL-125 and NH2-MIL-125 nanostructures in degradation of methylene blue
Authors: Mahmoodi Afsaneh , Dorranian Davoud , Abbasi Hamed
Published: September 2024

The notable impact of a trace amount of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on the photocatalytic performance of Ti-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), in the purification of water polluted with chemical agents was studied experimentally.
AI empowering traditional Chinese medicine?
Authors: Song Zhilin , Chen Guanxing , Chen Calvin Yu-Chian
Published: September 2024

AI-powered analysis of TCM chemical data enhances chemical component identification, drug discovery, personalized treatment, and pharmacological action elucidation, driving the modernization and sustainable development of TCM.
Enhanced catalytic activity of solubilised species obtained by counter-cation exchange of K{CoII1.5[FeII(CN)6]} for water oxidation
Authors: Seki Yusuke , Nakazono Takashi , Tabe Hiroyasu , Yamada Yusuke
Published: September 2024

A water-soluble anionic polynuclear–metal complex, {Co4[Fe(CN)6]3}4−, derived from a water insoluble K{Co1.5[Fe(CN)6]} by counter cation exchange of K+ with Me4N+ ions showed enhanced activity for photocatalytic water oxidation.
Competitive photooxidation of small colorless organics controlled by oxygen vacancies under visible light
Authors: Sun Jianghui , Ge Xiyang , Gao Yixuan , Zhang Min , Zhao Qi , Hou Guohua , Wang Xiaoni , Yin Yiyan , Ouyang Jin , Na Na
Published: September 2024

Competitive photooxidation of colorless 4-chlorobenzene-1,2-diamine (o-CAN) on TiO2 was controlled by in situ generated oxygen vacancies (OVs) via regulating substrate adsorption and O2 activation, which was monitored via on-line mass spectrometry.
A photoelectrocatalytic system as a reaction platform for selective radical–radical coupling
Authors: Won Sunghwan , Park Dongmin , Jung Yousung , Kim Hyunwoo , Chung Taek Dong
Published: September 2024

Semiconducting photoanodes could generate high-energy charge carriers with controlled kinetics due to generation of photovoltage and recombination. The inherent charge-transfer properties enabled the efficient and selective radical–radical coupling.
Resolving molecular frontier orbitals in molecular junctions with kHz resolution
Authors: Isshiki Yuji , Montes Enrique , Nishino Tomoaki , Vázquez Héctor , Fujii Shintaro
Published: September 2024

The current–voltage characteristics of molecular junctions can be measured with a time resolution two orders of magnitude higher than previous methods, allowing detailed characterization of electronic states during mechanical modulation.
Oxygen enriched porous carbon nanoflakes enable high-performance zinc ion hybrid capacitors
Authors: Cao Taiyu , Zhu Chunliu , Wang Xinyu , Ji Zhaowei , Liang Huanyu , Shi Jing , Tian Weiqian , Chen Jingwei , Wu Jingyi , Wang Huanlei
Published: September 2024

A modified MgO template method with a chemical vapor deposition process is proposed to synthesize oxygen enriched porous carbon nanosheets (PCNs), which exhibit excellent electrochemical performance in zinc ion hybrid capacitors.
Structure and dynamics in aqueous mixtures of glycerol: insights from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Požar Martina , Lovrinčević Bernarda
Published: September 2024

In this MD study, we investigate the structural and dynamical differences in aqueous glycerol mixtures over the whole concentration range.
Cross-linking organic cathodes enhances stability at the expense of ionic accessibility
Authors: Davis Ani N. , Parui Kausturi , Hasan A M Mahmudul , Pineda Lianett A. , Langhout John D. , Treaster Kiana A. , Butala Megan M. , Evans Austin M.
Published: September 2024

Cross-linking is shown to be an effective strategy to suppress dissolution of organic cathodes.
Hydrophilic flexible di-piperidine crosslinked membranes with highly effective ionic channels for water electrolysis
Authors: Ma Wenli , Bai Jianming , Zhang Qingzhi , Tian Lin , Wang Fanghui , Zhu Hong
Published: September 2024

The combination of cationic side chains and hydrophilic oxygenated cross-linkers facilitates the construction of efficient and continuous ion transport channels, improving ionic conductivity and enhancing the water electrolysis performance of AEMs.
Purification–lithiation collaborative regeneration of mixed graphite/LiFePO4: building 2D Li+-diffusion channels towards enhanced energy-storage capabilities
Authors: Zeng Zihao , Lu Xiangjin , Lei Shuya , Lei Hai , Zhen Aigang , Liu Yuanlong , Ji Xiaobo , Sun Wei , Yang Yue , Ge Peng
Published: September 2024

A purification–lithiation collaborative regeneration method was utilized to process a mixed graphite/LiFePO4 spent sample. This method contributed to the preparation of LFP cathode materials of high purity and considerable applicability.
Piezoelectric materials for anti-infective bioapplications
Authors: Chen Chen , Yang Xin , Liu Yi , Jia Jia , Li Yiping , Dai Xiaohan , Liu Ousheng
Published: September 2024

This review summarizes recent advances in piezoelectric materials for anti-infective and regenerative therapies. It highlights antibacterial mechanisms and discusses their anti-infective bioapplications.
IFN-γ induces acute graft-versus-host disease by promoting HMGB1-mediated nuclear-to-cytoplasm translocation and autophagic degradation of p53
Authors: Wang Shiyu , Cheng Tingting , Chen Xu , Zeng Cong , Qin Wei , Xu Yajing
Published: September 2024

Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) poses a significant impediment to achieving a more favourable therapeutic outcome in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Our prior investigations disclosed a correlation between p53 down-regulation in CD4+ T cells and the occurrence of aGVHD. Notably, the insufficiency of the CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) emerged as a pivotal factor in repressing p53 expression. However, the existence of additional mechanisms contributing to the reduction in p53 expression remains unclear. Interferon (IFN)-γ, a pivotal proinflammatory cytokine, assumes a crucial role in regulating alloreactive T-cell responses and plays a complex part in aGVHD development. IFN-γ has the capacity to induce autophagy, a vital catabolic process facilitating protein degradation, in various cell types. Presently, whether IFN-γ participates in the development of aGVHD by instigating the autophagic degradation of p53 in CD4+ T cells remains an unresolved question. In the present study, we demonstrated that heightened levels of IFN-γ in the plasma during aGVHD promoted the activation, proliferation, and autophagic activity of CD4+ T cells. Furthermore, IFN-γ induced the nuclear-to-cytoplasm translocation and autophagy-dependent degradation of p53 in CD4+ T cells. The translocation and autophagic degradation of p53 were contingent upon HMGB1, which underwent up-regulation and translocation from the nucleus to the cytoplasm following IFN-γ stimulation. In conclusion, our data unveil a novel mechanism underlying p53 deficiency in CD4+ T cells among aGVHD patients. This deficiency is induced by IFN-γ and relies on autophagy, establishing a link between IFN-γ, HMGB1-mediated translocation, and the autophagic degradation of p53.
Ototoxic Drug Exposure and Hearing Loss in Neonates: A Scoping Review
Authors: Rameshsankar Subaasri , Seethapathy Jayashree , Balakrishnan Umamaheshwari
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

This scoping review aims to map the effects of dosage levels, dosage intervals, duration of exposure, and serum concentration levels of gentamicin, amikacin, vancomycin, furosemide, and bumetanide on newborn hearing.

Method:

Using PubMed, Scopus, and Ovid databases (January 2010–2022), a scoping review was conducted to identify studies on ototoxic drug exposure in neonates. The review included articles that described details on ototoxic drug exposure and hearing status, dosage levels, duration of exposure, and serum concentration levels. The search results were summarized using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews.

Results:

Out of 4,395 entries, 28 were selected for inclusion in the scoping review. The studies were separated according to the exposed drugs: gentamicin, amikacin, vancomycin, furosemide, bumetanide, and a combination of drugs. Four out of five studies on amikacin exposure revealed an increased association with ototoxicity and abnormal trough levels. Six of seven studies on gentamicin exposure reported elevated trough concentration levels in a small number of infants, but no studies reported hearing loss. Two out of four studies on vancomycin exposure reported a dose-dependent risk for infants to develop hearing loss.

Conclusions:

Gentamicin exposure in neonates has been extensively studied and considered relatively safe, except in cases of elevated peak or trough concentration levels. Amikacin exposure was reported to be more ototoxic, as the elevation of trough concentration levels was associated with refer results in hearing. Loop-diuretic exposure demonstrated a significant ototoxic effect. When used with other ototoxic medications, vancomycin is said to have a greater effect on ototoxicity.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.26814700
Spot modelling through multi-band photometry
Authors: Biagini Alfredo , Petralia Antonino , Di Maio Claudia , Betti Lorenzo , Pace Emanuele , Micela Giuseppina
Published: September 2024

Context. Stellar activity is comprised of various phenomena, mainly spots and faculae. It is one of the main sources of noise in exoplanetary observations because it affects both spectroscopic and photometric observations. In studying young active planetary systems, we need to model the activity of the host stars to remove astrophysical noise from our observational data.

Aims. We model the contribution of stellar spots in photometric observations. Through the use of multi-band photometry, we aim to extract the geometric properties of the spots and constrain their temperatures.

Methods. We analysed multi-band photometric observations acquired with the 80 cm Marcon telescope of the Osservatorio Polifunzionale del Chianti of V1298 Tau, assuming the photometric modulation observed in different bands is attributed to cold spots.

Results We constrained the effective temperature of the active regions present on the surface of V1298 Tau, resulting from a combination of spots and faculae. We tested our hypothesis on solar data, verifying that we successfully measured the size of the dominant active region and its averaged effective temperature.
Accurate modeling of the forward-scattering Hanle effect in the chromospheric Ca I 4227 Å line
Authors: Belluzzi Luca , Riva Simone , Janett Gioele , Guerreiro Nuno , Riva Fabio , Benedusi Pietro , del Pino Alemán Tanausú , Ballester Ernest Alsina , Bueno Javier Trujillo , Štěpán Jiří
Published: September 2024

Context. Measurable linear scattering polarization signals have been predicted and detected at the solar disk center in the cores of chromospheric lines. These forward-scattering polarization signals, which are of high interest for magnetic field diagnostics, have always been modeled either under the assumption of complete frequency redistribution (CRD), or taking partial frequency redistribution (PRD) effects into account under the angle-averaged (AA) approximation.

Aims. The aim of this work is to assess the suitability of the CRD and PRD–AA approximations for modeling the forward-scattering polarization signals produced by the presence of an inclined magnetic field, the so-called forward-scattering Hanle effect, in the chromospheric Ca I 4227 Å line.

Methods. We performed radiative transfer calculations for polarized radiation in semi-empirical 1D solar atmospheres out of local thermodynamic equilibrium. We applied a two-step solution strategy. We first solved the problem considering a multilevel atom and neglecting polarization phenomena. Subsequently, we solved the same problem, this time considering a two-level atom and including polarization and magnetic fields. By keeping the population of the lower level calculated in the previous step fixed, the problem of step two is linear and is solved with a preconditioned FGMRES iterative method. We analyzed the emergent fractional linear polarization signals calculated under the CRD and PRD–AA approximations and compared them to those obtained by modeling PRD effects in their general angle-dependent (AD) formulation.

Result. With respect to the PRD–AD case, the CRD and PRD–AA calculations significantly underestimate the amplitude of the line-center polarization signals produced by the forward-scattering Hanle effect.

Conclusions. The results of this work suggest that a PRD–AD modeling is required in order to develop reliable diagnostic techniques exploiting the forward-scattering polarization signals observed in the Ca I 4227 Å line. These results need to be confirmed by full 3D calculations including non-magnetic symmetry-breaking effects.
The impact of third dredge-up on the mass loss of Mira variables
Authors: Uttenthaler S. , Shetye S. , Nanni A. , Aringer B. , Eriksson K. , McDonald I. , Gobrecht D. , Höfner S. , Wolter U. , Cristallo S. , Bernhard K.
Published: September 2024

Context. The details of the mass-loss process in the late stages of low- and intermediate-mass stellar evolution are not well understood, in particular its dependence on stellar parameters. Mira variables are highly suitable targets for studying this mass-loss process.

Aims. Here, we follow up on our earlier finding that a near-to-mid-infrared (NIR-MIR) colour versus pulsation period diagram shows two sequences of Miras that can be distinguished by the third dredge-up (3DUP) indicator technetium in those stars. While IR colours are good indicators of the dust mass-loss rate (MLR) from Miras, no corresponding sequences have been found using the gas MLR. However, investigations of the gas MLR have been hampered by data limitations. We aim to alleviate these limitations with new observational data.

Methods. We present new optical spectra of a well-selected sample of Miras. We searched these spectra for absorption lines of Tc and other 3DUP indicators, and combine our findings with gas MLRs and expansion velocities from the literature. Furthermore, we extend the analysis of the MIR emission to WISE data and compare the broadband spectral energy distributions (SEDs) of Miras with and without Tc.

Results. We find no systematic difference in gas MLRs between Miras with and without Tc. However, the gas envelopes of Tc-poor Miras appear to have a higher terminal expansion velocity than those of Miras with Tc. Furthermore, our analysis of the IR photometry strongly corroborates the earlier finding that Tc-poor Miras have a higher MIR emission than Tc-rich ones, by as much as a factor of two. We model the IR colours with DARWIN and stationary wind models and conclude that Miras with and without Tc have different dust content or dust properties.

Conclusions. We discuss several hypotheses and interpretations of the observations and conclude that the reduction of free oxygen by 3DUP of carbon and iron-depleted dust grains in Tc-rich stars are the most convincing explanations for our observations.
Reintroduction of the dwarf bulrush (Typha minima Funck ex Hoppe) at the river revitalisation measure Stams-Rietz (Inn river, Austria)
Authors: Schletterer Martin , Kollnig Christina , Gugerli Felix , Müller Norbert
Published: September 2024

The dwarf bulrush (Typha minima Funk ex Hoppe) is considered as a sensitive target species in natural alpine river landscapes. It disappeared from many rivers due to straightening, thus reintroduction efforts for species conservation have been initiated. Recently, at the Inn river between Stams and Rietz, i.e. a section of about 3 kilometres, the river bed was widened up to 75 meters and a branch as well as a back water zone were created and bank protection was removed. This measure provides potential habitats for T. minima, thus its reintroduction was carried out in 2023 along the banks. Plants originated from an ex-situ culture from the Botanical Garden of the University of Innsbruck, where propagation was carried out with seeds from the Lech catchment. Only 2 weeks after the reintroduction of 1500 plants, a 100-year flood occurred, which washed away many plants and only 17 remained. Thus, additional specimens (n = 37) were planted. Overall, in November 2023 a total of 54 specimens were established and genetically characterised to assess the initial genetic composition for subsequent monitoring. In June and July 2024, again high flows affected the stocks. However, at several sites the stocks were able cope with these conditions and may form a new population along the Inn river.
Numerical study of charge transport layers in inverted ternary organic photovoltaic cells
Authors: Magnin Vincent , N’Konou Kekeli
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the crucial role of charge transport layers in enhancing the performance of inverted organic photovoltaic cells (OPVs) through advanced numerical simulations using OghmaNano software. OPVs offer distinct advantages, including lightweight, flexibility, and potential cost-effectiveness compared to traditional silicon-based counterparts, making them pivotal for sustainable energy solutions. We evaluate the efficiency of inverted (iOPVs) employing binary (PM6:L8-BO) and ternary (PM6:D18:L8-BO) active layers, utilizing electron transport layers (ETLs) including ZnO, TiO2, and SnO2, and hole transport layers (HTLs) such as MoO3, PEDOT, and WO3. Results highlight ZnO with a 15 nm-thick layer combined with MoO3 HTL achieving an impressive efficiency of 18.89% in ternary devices, demonstrating the effectiveness of organic materials and ternary blends. The study demonstrates that TiO2 or SnO2 ETLs can compete effectively with ZnO ETLs, particularly when used at thinner thicknesses, and offers alternative fabrication methods. It suggests that employing thin ETL layers (15 ± 2 nm) could significantly enhance the performance of iOPV devices. Simulations are crucial for optimizing iOPV device configurations with thin ETL layers, enabling rapid prototyping and cost-effective exploration of material combinations and device architectures. These layers play a critical role in balancing charge carrier generation and transport efficiency, collectively maximizing device performance. Overall, the study underscores the pivotal role of simulations and optimized layer thicknesses in advancing OPV technology by refining manufacturing processes and accelerating the adoption of OPVs for sustainable energy solutions.
Technical achievable potential of photovoltaic conversion of solar radiation for the conditions of Ukraine
Authors: Karpchuk Hanna , Budko Vasyl , Lysenko Olga
Published: September 2024

This study investigates solar energy photovoltaic conversion processes while exploring new approaches to identify potential areas for the installation of photovoltaic stations. This research aims to enhance existing methodologies of technical-achievable potential calculation, considering the specificity of territories, the possibility of installing rooftop photovoltaic stations, and the current development of photovoltaic technologies. The developed methodology considers the type of stations, urban building specifics during the calculation of suitable areas for photovoltaic station installation, the potential for installing small and medium rooftop stations, and the modern technical characteristics of photovoltaic modules. The refinement of the PV panels and PV station area ratio calculations revealed that its value depends on the type and power of the station, varying from 0 to 1. This approach simplifies the determination of power capacity of a station that can be installed in a designated area. Consideration of the technical characteristics of the latest photoelectric conversion technologies demonstrates a significant potential increase compared to the existing calculation methodologies. Calculations conducted using the developed methodology revealed that the technically achievable potential of solar energy conversion for Ukraine is 369 TWh/year (254 GWp DC). This figure exceeds the estimations of existing calculation methodologies at least twice. The obtained results showed a significantly greater potential for solar energy in Ukraine, which expands the possibilities of using photovoltaic technologies to supply energy to consumers. This is especially important during the war because of the insufficient electricity production by existing power plants, many of which have been destroyed.
Influence of the addition of sisal fibers on the physical and mechanical properties of mortars
Authors: da Silva Augusto C.G. , de Oliveira Adriana G. , Batista Lucas S. , Gomes Amauri E. , Gachet Luísa Andréia , Silva Righetto Da Tais Gomes , Serna Pedro , Osório Wislei Riuper , Farkat Diógenes Hidelbrando Jose , Cecche Lintz Rosa Cristina
Published: September 2024

The construction industry has sought to use sustainable materials that have less impact on the environment. The use of vegetable fibers, mainly those from sisal, in cementitious composites has stood out among the others due to the great availability of this material, its tensile strength, and the social and economic issues involved in its production. This research aimed to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of sisal fiber mortars and propose the application of this material in the manufacture of cisterns located in rural regions, close to the production sites of the sisal fibers themselves. Regarding compressive strength and dynamic modulus of elasticity, mixtures containing sisal fibers showed a reduction in these properties when compared to mortars without fibers. However, there was a gain in the damping ratio of mortars with fibers, showing the influence of the fiber on the internal structure of the composite, distributing tensions, absorbing energy, and delaying the rupture of the material.
Pathway to the Zero Emission Utopia: a review
Authors: Wang Zhaoyu , Yu Xiangnan , Liu Heli , Yang Xiao , Jin Yuhai , Shi Huifeng , Politis Denis J. , Wang Liliang
Published: September 2024

Attaining zero emissions stands as a key aspect of sustainable development. The conventional pathway, known as the “Zero Emissions Society (ZES)”, involves the use of renewable energy generation as an alternative to traditional fossil fuels and promotes the total de-carbonisation of the grid, ultimately leading to net-zero emissions. This requires the establishment of large-scale renewable energy power stations, increased transmission efficiency and energy storage facilities. In addition to this conventional pathway, this review introduces an innovative concept, termed “Zero Emission Utopia (ZEU)”, which originates from an individual-centric perspective. This novel approach enables the achievement of zero carbon emissions in human daily life activities and subsequent propagation of this practice extensively, actualising a zero-emissions scenario. An analysis of the available utopian sources of energy and distributed energy storage methods for this proposed pathway is conducted and presented. In addition, an evaluation case study, quantifying the renewable energy production capacity available to an individual, shows with the help of distributed energy storage methods, the ZEU pathway is feasible for normal families. Moreover, the constructive collaboration between these two pathways is explored, highlighting their potential for mutual enrichment and complementary advantages.
Quelle pertinence de l’usage de la notion de résilience pour les systèmes agri-alimentaires ?
Authors: Lamine Claire , Magda Danièle , Darnhofer Ika
Published: September 2024

La notion de résilience est appliquée aux systèmes alimentaires depuis quelques années – tout comme dans d’autres domaines avant eux – et la « résilience alimentaire » est devenue, avec la crise du Covid-19, un buzzword traversant les communautés scientifiques, les institutions internationales, les politiques publiques et une diversité de mouvements engagés dans l’action collective en France. Dans ce contexte, nous proposons, à partir d’une trajectoire de ses usages, qui traversent diverses disciplines, institutions et groupes d’acteurs, de montrer comment ont émergé différentes versions de la résilience alimentaire qui mettent en avant des concepts-clés, des échelles et des objets différents. Nous soulignons diverses contradictions, confusions, ambiguïtés liées à certaines déclinaisons, ainsi que les processus d’invisibilisation de l’enjeu d’écologisation et des rapports de pouvoir qui sont à nos yeux associés. Enfin, nous avançons quelques arguments quant à la capacité de la notion de résilience à éclairer les enjeux de la transition agri-alimentaire.
Platform information sharing decisions considering supplier delivery services and encroachment strategies
Authors: Zhou Jianheng , Wu Bo
Published: September 2024

The platform often has private information about uncertain demand and determines whether to share the information with the supplier. And the supplier’s choice of delivery services and encroachment may depend on the platform’s information sharing policy. This paper examines the two-dimensional information sharing strategies in a supply chain where the supplier provides delivery services. Based on the game theory model, we find that when the platform shares unfavorable information, the motivation for the supplier’s encroachment decreases firstly. Encroachment does not reduce the level of delivery service from the supplier. Second, delivery services levels of supplier increase with channel substitution rate. Although platform sharing information lowers profits in a supply chain where the supplier provides delivery services, the platform can share information on behalf of delivery services improvement under certain conditions interestingly. Previous papers that ignore a supplier’s decision on delivery services may have underestimated the scope for platform profitable information sharing. Third, the equilibrium profits of supply chain entities present non-monotonous with respect to encroachment cost. The platform often faces a tradeoff. Sharing information, on the one hand, enables the supplier to gain a better understanding of the impact on demand and encourages enhancements to delivery services, which is advantageous to the platform. However, sharing information allows the supplier to absorb the impact of demand information by making modifications to the wholesale price and delivery services, which benefits the supplier but hurts the platform. This makes the negative effects of double marginalization worse.
Manufacturer encroachment and extended warranty provision
Authors: Qi Yue , Ye Taofeng , Zhang Guoqing
Published: September 2024

This study focused on the interactions between manufacturer encroachment and extended warranty (EW) provision by examining the manufacturer’s optimal encroachment decision with or without the extended warranty and the optimal EW provision decision under encroachment or no encroachment. Based on the combination of the two strategies, this study discussed four different models in which the manufacturer and retailer act as the Stackelberg leader and follower, respectively. It was shown that the manufacturer always finds it optimal to offer EW without encroachment. However, under encroachment, the manufacturer’s motivation to offer EW weakens. Furthermore, when EW is not offered, the manufacturer can benefit from encroachment if the selling cost of the product is not sufficiently high. When the selling cost of EW is low, the manufacturer’s motivation for encroachment strengthens. As the selling cost becomes moderate to high, offering EW weakens the manufacturer’s motivation for encroachment. Our analysis reveals that for different values of the co-payment rate and the manufacturer’s selling costs of products and EW, encroachment and EW provision may reinforce or impair each other. Therefore, manufacturer has to pay attention to the influence of one decison on another decision.
Provokation der Entstehung einer multiresistenten Tuberkulose durch inadäquate Behandlung einer Isoniazid-Monoresistenz
Authors: Früh Jonas , Strasen Jörn , Held Matthias
Published: September 2024

Anamnese Eine 65-jährige Patientin wurde aufgrund des Verdachts einer reaktivierten Tuberkulose zur weiteren Diagnostik zugewiesen.

Untersuchung und Diagnose Radiologisch zeigte sich rund 14 Monate nach abgeschlossener Standardtherapie einer pulmonalen Tuberkulose ein bipulmonaler Progress. Klinisch bestanden Husten und Nachtschweiß. Mikrobiologisch wurde eine multiresistente Tuberkulose (Resistenzen gegen Isoniazid und Rifampicin) nachgewiesen. Nach Aktendurchsicht fiel auf, dass bereits bei initialer Diagnose eine Resistenz gegen Isoniazid bestand, welche therapeutisch nicht berücksichtigt worden war.

Therapie und Verlauf Eine für 18 Monate geplante orale Therapie mit Bedaquilin, Linezolid, Terizidon und Levofloxacin wurde eingeleitet.

Folgerung Bei der Therapie einer Tuberkulose müssen Resistenzen unbedingt bedacht werden. Um eine ineffektive Therapie zu vermeiden, sollte auch molekulare Diagnostik eingesetzt werden; Kulturbefunde sind jedoch immer anzustreben. Durch diagnostische Latenz, zunehmende Resistenzen und eine lange Therapiedauer ist die Behandlung der Tuberkulose komplex. Seit 2014 gibt es aus diesem Grund die Möglichkeit, Patienten mit Tuberkulose oder atypischer Mykobakteriose (auch bei Verdacht) in Ambulanzen der spezialfachärztlichen Versorgung (ASV) zu behandeln.
Change nach Maß
Authors: Blum Mandy , Wilk Vanessa
Published: September 2024

Die Zertifizierung nach Pflegeattraktiv gibt keinen Katalog an Kriterien vor, mit dem starre Rahmenbedingungen erfüllt werden müssen. Vielmehr sind es die Klinikverantwortlichen und vor allem die Pflegenden, die ihre Ziele individuell bestimmen. Hier einige Umsetzungsbeispiele.
„Darauf müssen wir uns vorbereiten“
Authors: Doelfs Guntram
Published: September 2024

Krieg in der Ukraine, chinesische Drohungen gegen Taiwan, Eskalation in Nahost – längst tobt global ein neuer Konflikt der Systeme. Deutschland muss sich mit Terror und Kriegsszenarien beschäftigen. Doch das Gesundheitswesen ist dafür nicht gerüstet.
Ethnic Considerations When Planning Lip Augmentation
Authors: Borg Tiffanie-Marie , Mackay Jennifer
Published: September 2024

Ideal standards of beauty including preferred lip characteristics vary between ethnicities. Although plump, well-defined lips are globally associated with youth, variation exists with regard to the perceived ideal lip volume and proportions between ethnicities. Proportions that may be assessed when planning lip augmentation include the upper-to-lower lip ratio, philtrum length, upper and lower vermilion heights, the ratio between the philtrum height and that of the upper vermilion, and the lip height-to-lip width ratio.

It is important that accurate assessments of patients are made pre- and postaugmentation. However, many aesthetic assessment tools are based on Caucasian models with limited use in other ethnicities. We present a review of the ideal lip characteristics and assessment techniques accounting for ethnicity, with a view to providing practitioners an evidence-based approach to lip assessment and treatment planning for patients of all backgrounds.
Pharmacologic Treatment Strategies for Delirium in Hospitalized Adults: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Devlin John W.
Published: September 2024

Despite the use of multidomain prevention strategies, delirium still frequently occurs in hospitalized adults. With delirium often associated with undesirable symptoms and deleterious outcomes, including cognitive decline, treatment is important. Risk-factor reduction and the protocolized use of multidomain, nonpharmacologic bundles remain the mainstay of delirium treatment. There is a current lack of strong evidence to suggest any pharmacologic intervention to treat delirium will help resolve it faster, reduce its symptoms (other than agitation), facilitate hospital throughput, or improve post-hospital outcomes including long-term cognitive function. With the exception of dexmedetomidine as a treatment of severe delirium-associated agitation in the ICU, current practice guidelines do not recommend the routine use of any pharmacologic intervention to treat delirium in any hospital population. Future research should focus on identifying and evaluating new pharmacologic delirium treatment interventions and addressing key challenges and gaps surrounding delirium treatment research.
Impact force and pressure distribution of droplets impacting non-wetting surfaces
Authors: Fang Kefeng , Xiang Bing , Song Runci , Chen Jie , Feng Xin , Mao Zai–Sha , Yang Chao
Published: September 2024

Non-wetting surfaces have been extensively applied and studied due to their distinctive droplet impact dynamics. However, there is still a lack of studies on the droplet impact force and surface pressure distribution on the non-wetting surfaces. The impact process of a droplet on the non-wetting surface is systematically simulated using the volume-of-fluid method with a high-resolution grid, taking into account the effects of the Weber number (We) and the Ohnesorge number (Oh). The numerical results indicate that the droplet impact force exhibits a bimodal nature, which arises from the changes in the surface pressure distribution during the impact process. Meanwhile, in contrast to the bouncing process, tremendous pressure appears at the center of the droplet collision at the instant of jet generation. Most notably, the maximum pressure of the surface rapidly decays from more than ten times the dynamic pressure during the early stages of the droplet impact, while the location of the maximum pressure moves supersonically in the radial direction. These findings will deepen the understanding of droplet erosion and surface moisture resistance properties.
Predicting hospital bed utilisation for post-surgical care by means of the Monte Carlo method with historical data
Authors: Wong Andy , Eley Rob , Corry Paul , Hoad Brendan , Yarlagadda Prasad
Published: September 2024

Objective This study aim was to develop a predictive model of bed utilisation to support the decision process of elective surgery planning and bed management to improve post-surgical care. Methods This study undertook a retrospective analysis of de-identified data from a tertiary metropolitan hospital in Southeast Queensland, Australia. With a reference sample from 2 years of historical data, a model based on the Monte Carol method has been developed to predict hospital bed utilisation for post-surgical care of patients who have undergone surgical procedures. A separate test sample from comparable data of 8 weeks of actual utilisation was employed to assess the performance of the prediction model. Results Applying the developed prediction model to an 8-week period test sample, the mean percentage error of the prediction was 1.5% and the mean absolute percentage error 5.4%. Conclusions The predictive model developed in this study may assist in bed management and the planning process of elective surgeries, and in so doing also reduce the likelihood of Emergency Department access block.
Spanish translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Box and Block Test: a pilot study in adults with chronic acquired brain injury
Authors: Noce María-Paula , Valera-Gran Desirée , Hurtado-Pomares Miriam , Serrano-Reina Encarni , Soler-Pons Carlos , Navarrete-Muñoz Eva-María
Published: September 2024

Background The Box and Block Test (BBT) is a highly recommended outcome measure to assess unilateral gross motor activity of the upper limbs. The BBT has not previously been available in a version adapted to the Spanish context. Thus, this study aimed to cross-culturally adapt and translate the BBT’s instructions and pilot test the Spanish version of BBT in adults with acquired brain injury (ABI). Methods The BBT was translated and cross-culturally adapted following standard procedures. An expert committee approved the final Spanish version of BBT and it was conceptually validated by four therapists with expertise in ABI. The tool was tested on 14 adults with ABI. Results The Spanish version of BBT included a new section of materials for the test and a record to count the number of blocks transferred from one compartment of the box to the other. Following the pilot study, a modification in terminology was implemented for referring to the dominant and non-dominant hands. Conclusions Our results suggest that the Spanish version of BBT is suitable for assessing manual dexterity in Spanish-speaking adults with ABI.
A molecular switch from tumor suppressor to oncogene in ER+ve breast cancer: Role of androgen receptor, JAK-STAT, and lineage plasticity
Authors: Asemota Sarah , Effah Wendy , Holt Jeremiah , Johnson Daniel , Cripe Linnea , Ponnusamy Suriyan , Thiyagarajan Thirumagal , Khosrosereshki Yekta , Hwang Dong-Jin , He Yali , Grimes Brandy , Fleming Martin D. , Pritchard Frances E. , Hendrix Ashley , Fan Meiyun , Jain Abhinav , Choi Hyo Young , Makowski Liza , Hayes D. Neil , Miller Duane D. , Pfeffer Lawrence M. , Santhanam Balaji , Narayanan Ramesh
Published: September 2024

Cancers develop resistance to inhibitors of oncogenes mainly due to target-centric mechanisms such as mutations and splicing. While inhibitors or antagonists force targets to unnatural conformation contributing to protein instability and resistance, activating tumor suppressors may maintain the protein in an agonistic conformation to elicit sustainable growth inhibition. Due to the lack of tumor suppressor agonists, this hypothesis and the mechanisms underlying resistance are not understood. In estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer (BC), androgen receptor (AR) is a druggable tumor suppressor offering a promising avenue for this investigation. Spatial genomics suggests that the molecular portrait of AR-expressing BC cells in tumor microenvironment corresponds to better overall patient survival, clinically confirming AR’s role as a tumor suppressor. Ligand activation of AR in ER-positive BC xenografts reprograms cistromes, inhibits oncogenic pathways, and promotes cellular elasticity toward a more differentiated state. Sustained AR activation results in cistrome rearrangement toward transcription factor PROP paired-like homeobox 1, transformation of AR into oncogene, and activation of the Janus kinase/signal transducer (JAK/STAT) pathway, all culminating in lineage plasticity to an aggressive resistant subtype. While the molecular profile of AR agonist–sensitive tumors corresponds to better patient survival, the profile represented in the resistant phenotype corresponds to shorter survival. Inhibition of activated oncogenes in resistant tumors reduces growth and resensitizes them to AR agonists. These findings indicate that persistent activation of a context-dependent tumor suppressor may lead to resistance through lineage plasticity-driven tumor metamorphosis. Our work provides a framework to explore the above phenomenon across multiple cancer types and underscores the importance of factoring sensitization of tumor suppressor targets while developing agonist-like drugs.
Accelerating transmission capacity expansion by using advanced conductors in existing right-of-way
Authors: Chojkiewicz Emilia , Paliwal Umed , Abhyankar Nikit , Baker Casey , O’Connell Ric , Callaway Duncan , Phadke Amol
Published: September 2024

As countries pursue decarbonization goals, the rapid expansion of transmission capacity for renewable energy (RE) integration poses a significant challenge due to hurdles such as permitting and cost allocation. However, we find that large-scale reconductoring with advanced composite-core conductors can cost-effectively double transmission capacity within existing right-of-way, with limited additional permitting. This strategy unlocks a high availability of increasingly economically viable RE resources in close proximity to the existing network. We implement reconductoring in a model of the US power system, showing that reconductoring can help meet over 80% of the new interzonal transmission needed to reach over 90% clean electricity by 2035 given restrictions on greenfield transmission build-out. With $180 billion in system cost savings by 2050, reconductoring presents a cost-effective and time-efficient, yet underutilized, opportunity to accelerate global transmission expansion.
“Welcome to shege banza”
Authors: Adebomi Oluwayemisi Olusola
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the forms and functions of Internet memes relating to the fuel subsidy removal policy of
Nigeria´s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with a view to identifying the conceptual metaphors that underlie the creation of the
memes. The data, which consist of fifty memes shared in the Nigerian WhatsApp space, are analysed qualitatively using aspects of
Kress and van Leeuwen´s (2001) multimodal discourse analysis and Forceville´s (2015) multimodal metaphor theory. The findings reveal that the discourse,
design and production of the multimodal resources enhance the conceptualization of the metaphorical representations in the memes.
The study also shows the prevalence of the metaphors: fuel subsidy removal is a fraud, fuel subsidy removal is poverty and
fuel subsidy removal is inequality among other conceptual metaphors to explain the people´s negative disposition towards
the fuel subsidy removal policy. The study concludes that the forms and functions of the subsidy removal-related memes assist in
revealing the multimodal conceptual metaphors underlying the memes.
The role of ambiguity and vagueness in language change
Authors: Magni Elisabetta
Published: September 2024

In linguistic research, the concepts of ambiguity and
vagueness are often confused and frequently invoked to describe
synchronic facts and explain diachronic processes. This article
illustrates the differences and similarities between the two
phenomena, defines their position within the domain of semantic
indeterminacy, and discusses their role in linguistic change. The
examples show that while ambiguity is intertwined with various
mechanisms of change, acting as both a source and a product of
innovation, vagueness plays a marginal role, being mainly a side
effect of ongoing change or a tool of communicative strategies of
vague language. Moreover, intentional vagueness usually promotes
speaker-driven innovations, whereas ambiguity can trigger
hearer-driven changes that unfold broader diachronic scenarios.
Vague stuff
Authors: Fiorentini Ilaria , Zanchi Chiara
Published: September 2024

This paper investigates cose (pl. of
cosa ‘thing’) as a general extender (GE) and marker of non-exhaustivity from Latin to contemporary Italian. The
study employs three corpora: CODIT, LIP/VoLIP and KIParla. We show
that the frequency of cose-GEs dropped in 16th c.,
when they started being perceived as colloquial. In Old Italian,
cose-GEs already expressed non-exhaustivity in list constructions and, until late 17th c., were frequently
specified by a nominal modifier, which however was uninformative to
identify the category. Contemporary spoken Italian results confirm the role
of spoken language in developing structures encoding
non-exhaustivity, also in a dialogical sense. Moreover, recent
data show an increase in frequencies of cose-GEs.
Finally, we found more variability compared to the structure usually
identified for GEs.
Vagueness explored
Authors: Baido Maria Cristina Lo
Published: September 2024

The paper sets out to explore the function of vagueness
served by comment clauses in Italian, that is, (de-)verbal
parentheticals performing various meta-discursive functions.
Meta-discourse reflects the expression of speaker’s comment on
discourse to different levels ranging from the communication of
epistemic commitment to the encoding of an attitude of mirativity
and emphasis. In this paper I address meta-discourse that is
expressed by comment clauses that assist the speaker in the
communication of informative, relational, and discursive vagueness.
Specifically, the strategies here investigated indicate a relation
of underspecification between the speaker and the formulation to
different degrees pertaining to approximation, expression of
epistemic stance, categorisation of reference via
exemplification, attenuation of speaker’s force, and on-line
planning. I argue that vagueness should be related to the expression
of speaker’s subjectivity and indexicality, as the performing of
this function helps the speaker contextualising the interpretation
of various stretches of discourse.
Using ambiguity and vagueness to avoid problematic
answers
Authors: Barotto Alessandra
Published: September 2024

This paper focuses on the use of the Italian adverb
abbastanza ‘enough, quite’ when it is used as a stand-alone reply to
potentially problematic and face-threatening questions. Despite its
positive semantics, in some contexts, this word can be perceived as
vague or even ambiguous by speakers, in the sense that it is
possible to interpret it both as a (vague) ‘yes’ and a (vague) ‘no’,
thus functioning as an off-record politeness strategy. To verify in
which contexts this word can be perceived as ambiguous and vague, we
will examine data gathered from a questionnaire specifically created
and from corpora of contemporary Italian (KIParla corpus and
ItTenTen). The analysis will confirm a correlation between the level
of ambiguity and contexts where the speaker is asked to evaluate
something strongly related to the hearer. Finally, we will argue how
the potential ambiguity of this adverb is linked to its core
semantics of quantitative adequacy.
Vagueness and ambiguity of perlocutionary effects in Prime
Minister’s Question time sessions
Authors: Radulović Milica
Published: September 2024

Prime Minister’s Question time sessions are speech events
in which questions are not only requests for information, and
answers do not only provide the requested information. Speakers also
exchange argumentation, so the illocutionary act of advancing
argumentation can be regarded as a constitutive component of these
speech events. More specifically, argumentation can precede the MP’s
question to the Prime Minister and it can be part of the Prime
Minister’s response to the MP’s question. The research tested the
assumption that both (1) questions with clear locution and
illocution and (2) questions with unclear locution and/or illocution
can produce vague and/or ambiguous perlocutionary effects or
consequences. Perlocutionary effects or consequences were classified
into illocutionary and non-illocutionary perlocutionary effects or
consequences (van Eemeren & Grootendorst 1984: 26–27). The analysis included 70
question-answer exchanges from two Question time sessions. The
results demonstrate that disagreements can lead to non-answer
responses.