bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hematology of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) subjected to anesthesia and anticoagulation protocols
Authors: Weinert Nadia Cristine , Volpato Julieta , Costa Ádson , Antunes Rozyanne Rosa , Oliveira Aldo Camargo de , Mattoso Cláudio Roberto Scabelo , Saito Mere Erika
Published: July 2016

Clinical hematology facilitates the diagnosis of disease and can act as a prognostic indicator of pathological conditions in fish. The aim of the present study was to evaluate hematological parameters of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) subjected to different anesthetics and anticoagulants. Thirty apparently healthy fishes (average weight of 473 ± 35. 50 g and mean total length of 29. 33 ± 0. 37 cm), were selected from the local commercial fish farm in the Lages municipality (Santa Catarina, Brazil). The animals were randomly divided into three groups of 10. In two groups, anesthesia was induced with eugenol (70 mg·L- 1) (EG) and Benzocaine hydrochloride (100 mg·L-1) (BG), respectively. Anesthesia was not administered to fish of the third group (CG/control group). Blood samples were obtained by venipuncture of the caudal vessels and placed into microtubes containing sodium heparin or Na2EDTA for further analysis. The results were analyzed by Sigma Stat for Windows, the paired t-test for significant differences between anticoagulants of the same group, and analysis of variance followed by the Tukey test for comparison of means between groups (p ? 0. 05). Most of the observed changes in the erythrogram were significantly higher for the anticoagulant heparin and benzocaine group in comparison to the control group. However, the values obtained for the leukogram were significantly higher for all groups subjected to the Na2EDTA anticoagulant, suggesting that heparin may cause cell clumping. The results suggest that the anesthetics under investigation effectively minimizes the effects of stress caused by handling and invasive procedures, and that the anticoagulant heparin causes less hemolysis in comparison to Na2EDTA for Nile tilapia. Thus, the hematological variations attributed to different anesthetic protocols and/or different anticoagulants should be considered for the species Oreochromis niloticus.
Proteolytic and lipolytic microbiota of refrigerated raw milk from northeast and southern regions of Brazil
Authors: Ribeiro Junior Jose Carlos , Lima Joyce Bitencourt Atayde , Lemos Kleydejany Lima de , Silva Livia Cavaletti Corrêa da , Tamanini Ronaldo , Beloti Vanerli
Published: July 2016

The shelf life of milk and milk derivatives is directly related to the microbiological quality of refrigerated raw milk. Spoilage microorganisms with proteolytic and/or lipolytic properties are primarily responsible for the decrease in the quality of milk, which is reflected in the shelf life of pasteurized milk and all derivatives. The aim of this study was to determine the spoilage microbial load of refrigerated raw milk from the northeast and southern regions of Brazil, which have different climatic and technological conditions of production. We evaluated 46 samples of milk from the state of Paraná in the southern region, and 10 samples of milk from the state of Maranhão in the northeast region, totaling 56 samples collected from November 2013 to November 2014. The producers of Paraná were divided into large (20) or small (26) according to the average daily production. All producers of Maranhão were considered small (<500L/day). The proteolytic and lipolytic microorganism counts were conducted in milk agar and tributyrin agar, respectively. Milk from the large producers of Paraná had average counts of 1.4 × 104 CFU/mL for proteolytic microorganisms and 1.2 × 103 CFU/mL for lipolytics microorganisms, significantly (p <0.05) lower than the small producers in the same state, and the producers of Maranhão. Producers of Maranhao had counts of 1.1 × 105 CFU/mL for proteolytic microorganisms and 2 × 105 CFU/mL for lipolytic microorganisms, with the proteolytic count significantly lower than that of small Paraná producers. The amount of proteolytic and lipolytic spoilage microorganisms in milk is influenced by the adaptation of the microorganisms to cold, promoted by the cooling of milk, which is practiced less frequently in the country’s northeastern region. The amount of spoilage microorganisms is also affected by the implementation of milking hygiene practices, which reduce contamination. Such practices are more frequently and efficiently implemented among large producers with more advanced technology, which can improve the microbiological quality of raw milk, thus increasing the shelf life of pasteurized milk, and reducing problems in UHT milk as well as milk derivatives. 
Effect of the cryopreservation method used, the embryonic stage and the use of conjugated linoleic acid isomers on the cryotolerance of in vitro-produced bovine embryos
Authors: Marinho Luciana Simões Rafagnin , Ohlweiler Lain Uriel , Barreta Marcos Henrique , Gonçalves Paulo Bayard Dias , Mezzalira Joana Claudia , Mezzalira Alceu
Published: July 2016

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) might be able to improve the cryotolerance of in vitro-produced (IVP) embryos. The effect of two CLA isomers on the cryotolerance of bovine IVP embryos, as well as that of the stage of embryonic development and the method used for cryopreservation was evaluated by three experiments. In Experiment 1, oocytes (n = 3,917) were fertilized in vitro and cultured with 0, 50, 100, or 200 ?M trans-10, cis-12 (t10, c12 CLA). In Experiment 2, fertilized oocytes (n = 2,131) were cultured with 100 ?M t10, c12 or cis-9, trans-11 (c9, t11 CLA), or a combination of both isomers. The embryos were vitrified at the blastocyst (BL) or the expanded blastocyst (EB) stage. In Experiment 3, oocytes (n = 1,720) were fertilized and cultured with or without 100 ?M t10, c12 CLA, and the blastocysts were vitrified or frozen. Blastocyst development rate as well as the rates of re-expansion and hatching after thawing was recorded. Moreover, the mean cell number and mRNA expression of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC1) and stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD1) as well as fatty acid synthase (FASN) multienzyme complex were determined. In Experiment 1, the highest concentration of t10, c12 CLA that did not reduce blastocyst development rate was 100 ?M. In Experiment 2, the rates of re-expansion and hatching among the EBs obtained through IVP after supplementation with t10, c12 CLA (73.1% and 57.7%), with c9, t11 CLA (80.0% and 68.6%), with the combination (78.3% and 52.2%), and with the control group (85.4% and 58.3%) were similar. At the BL stage, the rates of re-expansion and hatching were lower than those at the EB stage, and CLA combination allowed a hatching rate (8.0%) lower than that observed in the control group (40.0%). In Experiment 3, the hatching rates for vitrified EBs (vitrified control; 67.4%) and vitrified CLA EBs (65.8%) were higher than those obtained for frozen EBs, exposed (13.3%) or not exposed (28.6%) to CLA. In addition, in Experiment 3, the hatching rate was higher at the EB stage in vitrified groups, while the rates of BL and EB were similar in frozen groups, thus proving that vitrification was more efficient than freezing for IVP bovine embryos. In Experiment 3, CLA isomer t10, C12 did not influence the embryonic cell number or mRNA expression of ACC1 and SCD1 enzymes, but decreased the mRNA expression of FASN. In conclusion, 100 ?M CLA did not affect subsequent embryonic development. However, neither CLA isomer improved the cryotolerance of IVP bovine embryos.
Impact of increasing levels of spineless-cactus meal on the ingestive behaviour of grazing steers
Authors: Abreu Filho George , Silva Robério Rodrigues , Silva Fabiano Ferreira da , Carvalho Gleidson Giordano Pinto de , Pereira Maria Magna Silva , Mendes Fabrício Bacelar Lima , Bastos Everton Santos , Santos Marceliana Da Conceição , Carvalho Venicio Macedo , Lins Túlio Otávio Jardim D'Almeida
Published: July 2016

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different levels of spineless-cactus meal substituting for maize in diets for supplemented steers grazing on Urochoa brizantha during the postweaning phase. The experiment was conducted on Princesa do Mateiro farm, located in Ribeirão do Largo-BA, Brazil. Forty crossbred steers with an average body weight of 261 ± 7.46 kg were distributed into four groups for evaluation of the following four levels of substitution of ground maize for spinelesscactus meal: 0.00, 30.00, 60.00, and 90.00%. The results were analysed statistically by variance and regression analyses at a 5% error probability. Increasing the amount of spineless-cactus meal in the diet had a quadratic effect on the grazing time and on the time spent on other activities. The diet had a quadratic effect on the number of grazing periods, the number of periods at the trough, and the total feeding and chewing times. In contrast, the number of periods spent on other activities and on rumination was not influenced by the level of spineless-cactus meal. The bite rate, number of bites per swallow, and number of bites per day increased linearly, whereas the swallowing time and number of cuds ruminated per day decreased as the level of spineless-cactus meal added to the diet wasincreased. The feed and rumination efficiencies of dry matter, neutral detergent fibre, crude protein, and non-fibre carbohydrates were not influenced by the level of substitution of spineless-cactus meal for ground maize. Spinelesscactus meal levels close to 60% probably provided greater fibre degradation, leading the animals to spend more time on social interactions with the group, use the feed better, and possibly have a better feed conversion.
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Replacement of soybean meal by soybean in multiple supplements for beef heifers grazing Urochloa decumbens during the dry season
Authors: Almeida Daniel Mageste de , Paulino Mário Fonseca , Marcondes Marcos Inácio , Rennó Luciana Navajas , Barros Lívia Vieira de , Martins Leandro Soares , Villadiego Faider Alberto Castaño , Lopes Sidnei Antônio , Marquez David Contreras , Silva Aline Gomes da , Ortega Roman Maza , Cardenas Javier Enrique Garces
Published: July 2016

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of replacing soybean meal with soybean in multiple supplements on nutritional parameters, microbial efficiency and productive and reproductive performance of heifers grazing in Urochloa decumbens during the drought period. Were used 39 crossbred heifers of initial age and initial weight of 21 months and 309.5±7 kg, respectively. The experimental design was completely randomized with four treatments with eight replicates, and a control treatment with seven replications. Two treatments had soybean meal as the protein source and two treatments had soybean as the protein source, containing 25% and 40% crude protein. The amount of supplement offered was 1.0 kg/animal/day. The animals of the control group received only mineral salt ad libitum. The supplemented animals had higher average daily gain (ADG) than control animals (P<0.10), and there was no difference in ADG among the supplements (P>0.10). There was an effect of supplementation (P <0.10) on intake of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC), total digestible nutrients (TDN) and neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein (NDF). There were no differences (P>0.10) on intake of OM and DM grazing between the supplemented and non-supplemented. Supplementation improved DM digestibility and all constituents of the diet (P<0.10). It was found that the provision of multiple supplements optimizes the performance of heifers grazing during the dry season, and that the substitution of soybean meal by soybean did not improve productive performance of animals.
Inhibiting Factors of Inter-organizational Cost Management Complementary Study
Authors: Farias Rafael Araújo Sousa , Gasparetto Valdirene
Published: July 2016

The research problem of this study is based on the discussion of inhibitors related Inter-organizational Cost Management (IOCM). Taking on an inductive logic, the study´s objective is exploratory by way of a qualitative approach, with the overall goal of analyzing which factors inhibit the applicability of Inter-organizational Cost Management. This study is a complement and completion of the debate initiated by Farias (2016). Fifty-four surveys retrieved from the literature were analyzed, which demonstrate the difficulties faced by companies in managing costs in a cooperative manner. Analysis on these studies could illustrate the perceptions held by different businesses, and list the difficulties faced by them, leading to the identification of 30 inhibiting factors. The diversity of the same highlights the interdisciplinary nature, as well as complexity, of the phenomenon in question. The study chose to divide the inhibiting factors into three groups, which relate to the developmental stages of inter-organizational relationships (planning, start of operations and maturation), with the inhibitors present in the three stages. Inhibitory factors related to People were found to be most predominant; the implementation of inter-organizational approaches requires not only changes in processes, but also in the adaptation of organizational behavior on part of those involved. Thus, the application of IOCM cannot be seen as a technical approach, guided by technology and management programs alone, and companies need to overcome internal barriers.
Nostradamus Lite – Selected Speculations as to the Future of Internet Jurisdiction
Authors: Svantesson Dan
Published: July 2016

This paper examines and analyses current trends in the field of Internet jurisdiction, including the troubling development of overly broad claims of 'scope of jurisdiction', the increasing interest in so-called geo-location technologies and the tendency of litigants targeting Internet intermediaries. A handful of recent key judgments from around the world are also analysed, and an effort is made to identify and present key projects and other initiatives currently dealingwith the topic of Internet jurisdiction. Based on observations flowing from this analysis, a selection of speculations as to the future of Internet jurisdiction is presented.It will be shown that while the topic of Internet jurisdiction is currently gaining an unprecedented degree of attention and, while progress is being made, there are several serious hurdles in relation to which we have seen little or no progress over the past 20 years. In addition, there are new dangerous trends emerging, adding to the concerns for the future direction of Internet jurisdiction.
Association between the HTR2C rs1414334 C/G gene polymorphism and the development of the metabolic syndrome in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics
Authors: Rico-Gomis José María , Palazón-Bru Antonio , Triano-García Irene , Mahecha-García Luis Fabián , García-Monsalve Ana , Navarro-Ruiz Andrés , Villagordo-Peñalver Berta , Jiménez-Abril Jessica , Martínez-Hortelano Alicia , Gil-Guillén Vicente Francisco
Published: July 2016

Few studies have assessed the association between the rs1414334 C/G polymorphism in the HTR2C gene and the development of the metabolic syndrome in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics. To provide further evidence, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Spain between 2012 and 2013 in 166 patients with these characteristics. In these patients, the association between the polymorphism and the presence of the metabolic syndrome was determined by implementing binary logistic regression models adjusted for variables associated with the metabolic syndrome. We did not confirm previous claims that the C allele of the polymorphism was linked to the metabolic syndrome: the association was in the opposite direction and non-significant. This conclusion held after taking gender and lifestyle variables into account.
Air Pollution and Parkinson Disease in a Population-Based Study
Authors: Krzyzanowski Brittany , Mullan Aidan F. , Turcano Pierpaolo , Camerucci Emanuele , Bower James H. , Savica Rodolfo
Published: September 2024

Importance

The role of air pollution in risk and progression of Parkinson disease (PD) is unclear.

Objective

To assess whether air pollution is associated with increased risk of PD and clinical characteristics of PD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based case-control study included patients with PD and matched controls from the Rochester Epidemiology Project from 1998 to 2015. Data were analyzed from January to June 2024.

Exposures

Mean annual exposure to particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 µm or less (PM2.5) from 1998 to 2015 and mean annual exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from 2000 to 2014.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes of interest were PD risk, all-cause mortality, presence of tremor-predominant vs akinetic rigid PD, and development of dyskinesia. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race and ethnicity, year of index, and urban vs rural residence.

Results

A total of 346 patients with PD (median [IQR] age 72 [65-80] years; 216 [62.4%] male) were identified and matched on age and sex with 4813 controls (median [IQR] age, 72 [65-79] years, 2946 [61.2%] male). Greater PM2.5 exposure was associated with increased PD risk, and this risk was greatest after restricting to populations within metropolitan cores (odds ratio [OR], 1.23; 95% CI, 1.11-1.35) for the top quintile of PM2.5 exposure compared with the bottom quintile. Greater NO2 exposure was also associated with increased PD risk when comparing the top quintile with the bottom quintile (OR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.07-1.19). Air pollution was associated with a 36% increased risk of akinetic rigid presentation (OR per each 1-μg/m3 increase in PM2.5, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.02-1.80). In analyses among patients with PD only, higher PM2.5 exposure was associated with greater risk for developing dyskinesia (HR per 1-μg/m3 increase in PM2.5, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.17-1.73), as was increased NO2 exposure (HR per 1 μg/m3 increase in NO2, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.06-1.19). There was no association between PM2.5 and all-cause mortality among patients with PD.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this case-control study of air pollution and PD, higher levels of PM2.5 and NO2 exposure were associated with increased risk of PD; also, higher levels of PM2.5 exposure were associated with increased risk of developing akinetic rigid PD and dyskinesia compared with patients with PD exposed to lower levels. These findings suggest that reducing air pollution may reduce risk of PD, modify the PD phenotype, and reduce risk of dyskinesia.
Polymethine Dyes
Authors: Towns Andrew D.
Published: September 2024

This article defines the specific molecular and electronic characteristics that qualify a colorant as a polymethine dye. It also delineates various subclasses of polymethine dye before going on to describe the spectroscopic characteristics associated with the polymethine chromogen, which has led to this class of colorant becoming so important to numerous sectors of industry and academia. The influences of molecular structure on spectroscopic properties that are peculiar to polymethine dyes form the subject of brief discussion before moving on to a survey of the chief commercial applications for this type of colorant. A short summary of nascent technologies for which polymethine dyes constitute key materials then follows, along with signposting of information sources on their synthesis.
Five problems plaguing publishing in the life sciences—and one common cause
Authors: Wright Duncan E.
Published: September 2024

Although publication in scholarly peer‐reviewed journals remains the gold standard for communication of findings in the life sciences, the gold has been debased in the digital age by various impurities, including (a) reviewer fatigue, (b) fraud, paper mills, and the perils of artificial intelligence, (c) predatory journals, (d) the ongoing use of journal impact factor as a proxy for individual article quality, and (e) salami‐slicing and other unethical practices. In this article, I present a detailed overview of these problems, as well as solutions proposed and implemented to counter them. Finally, I suggest that these are all symptomatic of a wider problem, namely the culture of ‘publish or perish’ and ongoing issues with how researcher performance is evaluated for grant, hiring, and promotion decisions. Only by working towards a global shift in the way scientists view the purpose of publication can we finally remove the impurities and refine the gold.
Can sustainable biocommerce continue to support conservation, or will the captive breeding of offspring be its Achilles heel?
Authors: Yeager Justin , Scarpetta Gonzalez Juan Manuel , Shepack Alexander
Published: September 2024

The trade in high‐value natural resources, particularly exotic plants and animals (henceforth biocommerce), can lead to both positive and negative impacts on wild populations. The exotic plant and animal hobbies are highly organized with internal cultures that are often poorly understood by non‐members; however, understanding them is of central importance for biocommerce with both direct and indirect consequences for the conservation of wild populations.

Growing international demands for exotic species leaves simple questions related to the economics of biocommerce unexplored. The long‐term success of biocommerce businesses requires constant income, meaning they obtain and retain significant market proportions. Some biocommerce products can be reproduced by hobbyists and undercut business efforts based on sustainably produced exports.

We analyse a test case in Neotropical poison frogs where sustainable biocommerce is burgeoning, yet (export‐based) businesses face direct market competition from the offspring produced within the countries, which receive their exports, and therefore are forced to rely on fervent customer support.

Solution: We survey customers' behaviours where we find different classes of consumers, which differ in where they place higher values within the hobby. By taking into account these different classes, we gain insights and potential solutions to promote the stability of this unique type of biocommerce.
Development and Validation of a One‐Dimensional Finite Difference Simulation Scheme for Polymer Laser Powder Bed Fusion with Application to the Effect of the Inter Layer Time
Authors: Bierwisch Claas , Dietemann Bastien , Grünewald Moritz , Schlör Christian , Rudloff Johannes
Published: September 2024

The division of the polymer laser powder bed fusion process polymers (PBF‐LB/P) into temporal regimes originating from laser motion, thermal diffusion, viscous flow, crystallization kinetics, and powder application is exploited by considering only the building direction. The reduction of dimensionality enables fast simulations which are used to investigate the influence of the inter layer time on the final part density. Numerical simulation results are validated by experiments using polyamide 12 (PA 12) with good agreement in terms of part density. It is shown that an inter layer time of 90 s leads to nearly dense PA 12 parts while a time of 45 s leads to less dense parts. The cooling effect of the applied powder is identified as a cause for insufficient densification of the previous layer. The simulation tool is quantitatively validated against experimental results for the surface temperature of PA 12 as function of scan speed and hatch distance, for the melt pool depth of polyamide 6 as function of scan speed and for the melt pool depth of polyetherketoneketone as function of laser power. The presented simulation method enables rapid process parameter adjustment for new polymer materials in the PBF‐LB/P process.
Altermagnetism: Exploring New Frontiers in Magnetism and Spintronics
Authors: Bai Ling , Feng Wanxiang , Liu Siyuan , Šmejkal Libor , Mokrousov Yuriy , Yao Yugui
Published: September 2024

Recent developments have introduced a groundbreaking form of collinear magnetism known as “altermagnetism”. This emerging magnetic phase is characterized by robust time‐reversal symmetry breaking, antiparallel magnetic order, and alternating spin‐splitting band structures, yet it exhibits vanishing net magnetization constrained by symmetry. Altermagnetism uniquely integrates traits previously considered mutually exclusive to conventional collinear ferromagnetism and antiferromagnetism, thereby facilitating phenomena and functionalities previously not achievable within these traditional categories of magnetism. Initially proposed theoretically, the existence of the altermagnetic phase has since been corroborated by a range of experimental studies, which have confirmed its unique properties and potential for applications. This review explores the rapidly expanding research on altermagnets, emphasizing the novel physical phenomena they manifest, methodologies for inducing altermagnetism, and promising altermagnetic materials. The goal of this review is to furnish readers with a comprehensive overview of altermagnetism and to inspire further innovative studies on altermagnetic materials which can potentially revolutionize applications in technology and materials science.
Recoverable Zigzag N4 Chains in High‐Pressure Synthesized Cerium Polynitride
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Zhang Ying , Wang Yuanyuan , Sui Minghong , Yue Lei , Liu Shuang , Li Quanjun , Liu Zhaodong , Yao Zhen , Wang Peng , Liu Bingbing
Published: September 2024

Metal polynitrides have raised significant interest for their applications as potential high‐energy‐density materials (HEDMs). Despite extensive research on energetic polynitrogen species, reducing synthesis pressures and realizing their recovery at ambient conditions remain challenging. Here, for the first time, the zigzag N4 chains are successfully stabilized in the new polynitride Ce2N6 and recovered to ambient pressure and temperature by introducing cerium nitride as a precursor. The stable mechanism of the recoverable N4 chain originates from the large quantity of charge captured, the favorable bonding environment, and low structural enthalpy. This study reveals the crucial role of precursors in stabilizing and recovering polynitrogen species, providing an alternative route to design and prepare novel HEDMs.
Emerging Trends for the Direct Synthesis of Dithiocarbamates
Authors: He Jiawei , Zhou Xuesi , Liu Xiang
Published: September 2024

Dithiocarbamates are common structural motifs in various bioactive compounds, attracting considerable attention due to their wide‐ranging applications in organic synthesis, material science, agrochemicals, and the pharmaceutical industry. Given the significant bioactivity and extensive applications of dithiocarbamates, the continuous pursuit of their efficient and diverse synthetic methods remains critical and urgent. Direct dithiocarbamation reactions can introduce −S−C(S)NR2 group directly into parent molecules, providing shorter, greener, and more practical pathways for the synthesis of organodithiocarbamates. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in direct dithiocarbamation reactions, categorizing them based on the different sources of the −S−C(S)NR2 group, with a particular emphasis on elucidating substrate scope and reaction mechanisms. Additionally, some synthetic limitations and applications of these methods are discussed. This review aims to provide the latest advancements in this field to both general readers and professional practitioners, inspiring innovative ideas for the synthesis of organosulfur compounds.
Synthesis of Self‐Adhesive, Self‐Healing and Antifreeze Conductive Hydrogels for Flexible Strain sensors
Authors: Yang Ruxue , Zhao Shaolin , Tu Zhantong , Hu Haowen , Chen Xiyue , Wu Xin
Published: September 2024

Recently, significant progress has been made regarding conductive hydrogels‐based flexible sensors in health detection, electronic skin, soft robots, etc. However, the requirement of bonding with the substrate through the adhesive tape, brokenness sensitivity, and degradation of performance under low‐temperature environments, strongly limit the wide applications of conductive hydrogels in flexible sensors. To solve these problems, this study introduces lithium chloride (LiCl) into poly(vinyl alcohol)/tannic acid/polyacrylamide (PVA/TA/PAM) hydrogels to endow the hydrogels with excellent conductivity and antifreeze properties. In addition, the addition of tannic acid (TA) and zwitterionic 3‐[Dimethyl‐[2‐(2‐methylprop‐2‐enoyloxy)ethyl]azaniumyl]propane‐1‐sulfonate (SBMA) enables the hydrogel to have good self‐healing performance (after 72 h of healing at 20 °C, the healing efficiency of fracture stress is 24%, and the healing efficiency of fracture strain is 52%) and adhesion (the adhesion strength to paper at 20 °C is 14.12 KPa). The sensors based on PVA/TA/PAM composite hydrogels exhibit good sensibility, stability, and durability, and can respond quickly to human joint activities (finger bending, wrist bending, arm bending, and leg bending). Therefore, the multifunctional PVA/TA/PAM composite hydrogel demonstrates significant potential for applications in flexible strain sensors under extreme environments.
Revealing an Extended Adsorption/Insertion‐Filling Sodium Storage Mechanism in Petroleum Coke‐Derived Amorphous Carbon
Authors: Lv Jia‐He , Wang Jing‐Song , He Bin , Wu Tao , Lu An‐Hui , Zhang Wenrui , Xu Juping , Yin Wen , Hao Guang‐Ping , Li Wen‐Cui
Published: September 2024

Amorphous carbon holds great promise as anode material for sodium‐ion batteries due to its cost‐effectiveness and good performance. However, its sodium storage mechanism, particularly the insertion process and origin of plateau capacity, remains controversial. Here, an extended adsorption/insertion‐filling sodium storage mechanism is proposed using petroleum coke‐derived amorphous carbon as a multi‐microcrystalline model. Combining in situ X‐ray diffraction, in situ Raman, theoretical calculations, and neutron scattering, the effective storage form and location of sodium ions in amorphous carbon are revealed. The sodium adsorption at defect sites leads to a high‐potential sloping capacity. The sodium insertion process occurs in both the pseudo‐graphite phase (d002 > 0.370 nm) and graphite‐like phase (0.345 ≤ d002 < 0.370 nm) rather than the graphite phase, contributing to low‐potential sloping capacity. The sodium filling into accessible closed pores forms quasi‐metallic sodium clusters, contributing to plateau capacity. The threshold of the effective interlayer spacing for sodium insertion is extended to 0.345 nm, breaking the consensus of insertion interlayer threshold and enhancing understanding of closed pore filling. The extended adsorption/insertion‐filling mechanism explains the sodium storage behavior of amorphous carbon with different microstructures, providing theoretical guidance for the rational design of high‐performance amorphous carbon anodes.
Unlocking Interfacial Interactions of In Situ Grown Multidimensional Bismuth‐Based Perovskite Heterostructures for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Feng Jianpei , Mak Chun Hong , Jia Guohua , Han Bin , Shen Hsin‐Hui , Santoso Shella Permatasari , Kai Ji‐Jung , Yuan Mingjian , Song Haisheng , Colmenares Juan Carlos , Hsu Hsien‐Yi
Published: September 2024

To combat the energy crisis and environmental pollution, developing renewable energy technology such as hydrogen (H2) production is necessary. The sulfur–iodine thermochemical cycle has high commercial potential in conducting hydrogen iodide (HI) splitting for H2 generation, but it requires high‐temperature conditions. In comparison, photocatalytic HI splitting of halide perovskites is non‐polluted and low‐cost for H2 production at room temperature. Herein, an in situ constructed multidimensional bismuth (Bi)‐based 3D/2D EDABiI5/MA3Bi2I9 perovskite heterojunction is developed first by synergistically integrating dimensionality control with heterostructure engineering. Accordingly, the optimal EDABiI5/MA3Bi2I9 without any co‐catalysts exhibits the H2 evolution rate of 213.63 µmol h−1g−1 under irradiation. Equally importantly, interfacial dynamics of solid/solid and solid/liquid interfaces play a crucial role in photocatalytic performance. Therefore, using temperature‐dependent transient photoluminescence and electrochemical voltammetric techniques, it is confirmed that the exciton transportation of EDABiI5/MA3Bi2I9 is accelerated by stronger electronic coupling arising from an enhanced overlap of electronic wavefunctions. Moreover, the effective diffusion coefficient and electron transfer rate of EDABiI5/MA3Bi2I9 demonstrate efficient heterogeneous electron transfer, resulting in improved photocatalytic hydrogen production. Consequently, the in situ formation of perovskite heterostructures studied by a combination of photophysical and electrochemical techniques provides new insights into green hydrogen evolution and interfacial interaction dynamics for commercial applications of solar‐to‐fuel technology.
The phylogeny of the Triticeae: Resolution and phylogenetic conflict based on genomewide nuclear loci
Authors: Mason‐Gamer Roberta J. , White Dawson M.
Published: September 2024

Premise

The wheat tribe, Triticeae, has been the subject of molecular phylogenetic analyses for nearly three decades, and extensive phylogenetic conflict has been apparent from the earliest comparisons among DNA‐based data sets. While most previous analyses focused primarily on nuclear vs. chloroplast DNA conflict, the present analysis provides a broader picture of conflict among nuclear loci throughout the tribe.

Methods

Exon data were generated from over 1000 nuclear loci using targeted sequence capture with custom baits, and nearly complete chloroplast genome sequences were recovered. Phylogenetic conflict was assessed among the trees from the chloroplast genomes, the concatenated nuclear loci, and a series of nuclear‐locus subsets guided by Hordeum chromosome gene maps.

Results

At the intergeneric level, the analyses collectively revealed a few broadly consistent relationships. However, the prevailing pattern was one of extensive phylogenetic conflict throughout the tribe, among both deep and shallow branches, and with the extent of the conflict varying among data subsets.

Conclusions

The results suggest continual introgression or lineage sorting within and among the named lineages of the Triticeae, shaping both deep and shallow relationships in the tribe.
Flower position within plants influences reproductive success both directly and via phenology
Authors: Valdés Alicia , Ehrlén Johan
Published: September 2024

Premise

In plants, within‐individual trait variation might result from mechanisms related to ontogenetic contingency, i.e., to the position of a particular structure within the plant, previous developmental events, and/or the developmental environment. Flower position within inflorescences as well as inflorescence position within plants can influence resource provisioning, phenology, biotic interactions, and reproductive success. Despite the potential implications of within‐individual variation in plant reproductive phenotypes, its causes and effects on reproductive success are still little explored.

Methods

We assessed how reproductive success, in terms of fruit and seed set, and seed predation of 5883 flowers in Lathyrus vernus were influenced by their position within and among racemes, to what extent relationships between flower position and reproductive success and seed predation were mediated by phenology, and if positional effects on reproductive success depended on the external environment.

Results

In three years, basal flowers and racemes opened earlier and had higher fruit set than distal. Basal flowers also experienced higher seed predation. Differences among racemes in fruit and seed set were largely related to phenology, while differences in fruit set, seed set, and seed predation within racemes were not. In one year, differences in fruit set among flowers at different positions depended on flowering duration.

Conclusions

Our results highlight the important role of ontogenetic contingency for within‐individual variation in phenology and reproductive success. As the spatial distribution of reproductive structures affects both within‐plant trait distributions and fitness, it is a likely target for natural selection.
Hydrogen Bond‐Induced Flexible and Twisted Self‐Assembly of Functionalized Carbon Dots with Customized‐Color Circularly Polarized Luminescence
Authors: Ai Lin , Xiang Wenjuan , Li Zhan‐Wei , Liu Huimin , Xiao Jiping , Song Haoqiang , Yu Jingkun , Song Ziqi , Zhu Kai , Pan Zhuohan , Wang Haolin , Lu Siyu
Published: September 2024

Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) has numerous applications in optical data storage, quantum computing, bioresponsive imaging, liquid crystal displays, and backlights in three‐dimensional (3D) displays. In addition to their competitive optical properties, carbon dots (CDs) benefit from simple and low‐cost preparation, facile post‐modification, and excellent resistance to photo‐ and chemical bleaching after carbonization. Combining the superior optical performance with polarization peculiarities through hierarchical structure engineering is imperative for the development of CDs. In this study, hydrophobic interactions of aromatic ligands, which participate in the surface‐ligand post‐modification process on the ground‐state chiral carbon core, are employed to drive the oriented assembly. Furthermore, the residual chiral amides on CDs form multiple hydrogen bonds during gradual aggregation, causing the assembled materials to form an asymmetric bending structure. Superficial ligands interfere with the optical dynamics of the exciton radiation transition and stabilize the excited state of the assembled materials to achieve a circularly polarized signal. The linkage ligands overcome the frequent aggregation‐induced quenching phenomenon that present difficulties in conventional CDs, facilitate the assembly of self‐supporting films, and improve chiral optical expression. The full‐color and white CPL are manipulated by simply adjusting the functional groups of the ligands, which also illustrates the versatility of the post‐modification strategy. Finally, large chiral flexible films and multicolor chiral light‐emitting diodes based on the stable chiral powder phosphors were constructed, thereby providing feasible materials and technical support for flexible 3D displays.
A comparative study of simulated electric fields of transcranial magnetic stimulation targeting different cortical motor regions
Authors: Zhang Jack Jiaqi , Zhang Bella Bingbing , Bai Zhongfei , Fong Kenneth N. K.
Published: September 2024

This computational simulation study investigates the strength of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)‐induced electric fields (EF) in primary motor cortex (M1) and secondary motor areas. Our results reveal high interindividual variability in the strength of TMS‐induced EF responses in secondary motor areas, relative to the stimulation threshold in M1. Notably, the activation of the supplementary motor area requires high‐intensity stimulation, which could be attributed to the greater scalp‐to‐cortex distance observed over this area. These findings emphasize the importance of individualized planning using computational simulation for optimizing neuromodulation strategies targeting the cortical motor system.
2‐inquiry rule applies to free speech, service animals
Authors: Masinter Michael R.
Published: September 2024

The Department of Justice's regulations for the Americans with Disabilities Act allow two inquiries about whether a dog is a service animal: (1) whether the dog is a service animal required due to a disability and (2) what tasks it has been trained to perform. These regulations have been in place for almost 15 years but have generated little litigation over what is plainly a content‐based speech prohibition.
Successful management of a ruptured cystic artery pseudoaneurysm with embolization and cholecystectomy: A case report
Authors: Heidari Amirhossein , Ghane Yekta , Heidari Nazila , Kasraianfard Amir , Kargar Mahsa , Moradi Ali Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Cystic artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare phenomenon associated with cholecystitis. We describe the successful management of angioembolisation and cholecystectomy.

Cystic artery pseudoaneurysm (CAP) is a rare but clinically significant condition with various etiological factors. Cholecystitis is a prominent cause, often leading to inflammation‐induced arterial wall erosion and pseudoaneurysm formation. CAP can present with a range of symptoms, including hemobilia, upper GI bleeding, and jaundice. Despite its rarity, CAP warrants attention in emergency care due to its potential for life‐threatening arterial bleeding. Timely diagnosis is crucial, with imaging techniques playing a key role. Depending on the clinical context, management options include endovascular embolization and surgical intervention. Due to the limited cases, standard protocols remain elusive. A 64‐year‐old woman presented with abdominal pain, anorexia, and weight loss, prompting an evaluation for possible gallbladder cancer. She experienced sudden abdominal pain and upper gastrointestinal bleeding (hematemesis). Laboratory findings revealed leukocytosis, anemia, and abnormal liver function tests. Imaging showed gallbladder wall thickening, luminal contraction, and a pseudoaneurysm in the cystic artery. The patient underwent angioembolization followed by cholecystectomy, confirming acute cholecystitis and CAP with thrombosis. This case underscores the importance of early recognition and appropriate management in CAP, particularly when accompanied by acute cholecystitis.
Unusual coexistence: A case of mixed small and large cell neuroendocrine tumor in a bladder previously affected by bilharzial cystitis
Authors: Salem Mohammed Saleh E. Khalifa , Alherek Abdul , Van Rooyen Martin , Mukendi Alain Mwamba
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Neuroendocrine tumors of the bladder are rare, accounting for less than 1% of all bladder tumors. Among these, large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma is an extremely uncommon subtype. We report on a histologically confirmed case of mixed both large and small cells neuroendocrine tumor of the bladder in a 64‐year‐old male with a history of bilharzial cystitis. The diagnosis was made after radical cystectomy with Immunohistochemical staining revealing positivity for synaptophysin, CD56, and AE1/3. While bilharzia is commonly linked to squamous cell carcinoma in the bladder, the potential relationship with neuroendocrine tumors is still relatively unexplored in this context. This case marks the first reported instance of the atypical coexistence of bilharzial cystitis and mixed large and small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the bladder. This unique case of coexisting highlights a rare phenomenon warranting further study. Similar associations have been documented in other organs, emphasizing the importance of exploring underlying mechanisms and clinical implications for improved patient care and outcomes.
Photoinduced Enantioselective Triplet Radical Reaction on Metal: Copper‐Catalyzed Conjugate Addition of Acylsilanes to α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones and Aldehydes
Authors: Masuda Yusuke , Ueda Yusuke , Sueki Aiko , Shimosato Junpei , Nishimura Kousei , Gao Min , Hasegawa Jun‐ya , Sawamura Masaya
Published: September 2024

A photoinduced copper‐catalyzed enantioselective conjugate addition of acylsilanes has been developed. The conjugate acylation of α,β‐unsaturated ketones and aldehydes was promoted by a copper(I)/chiral NHC catalyst under visible‐light irradiation for synthesizing various 2‐substituted 1,4‐dicarbonyl compounds in enantioenriched forms. Mechanistic studies combining experiments and quantum chemical calculations indicated a reaction mechanism involving copper‐to‐acyl charge transfer (i. e., metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (MLCT)) excitation of an alkene‐bound acylcopper complex. The MLCT excitation is followed by an electronical and geometrical change to generate a triplet β‐radical‐C‐enolate‐Cu(II)‐acyl complex with an acyl radical character, which undergoes facile excited state C−C bond formation in the copper coordination sphere, affording the 1,4‐conjugate addition product.
A Dinitrogen Divanadium Complex Supported by a Trisamidophosphine Ligand
Authors: Chen Dong‐Ping , Cui Yun‐Shu , He Bo‐Han , Liu Feng , Zhai Dan‐Dan , Shi Zhang‐Jie
Published: September 2024

Comprehensive Summary

The reaction between tripodal trisamidophosphine ligand H3PN3Ar and V(Mes)3(THF) (Mes = mesityl) yields the vanadium(III) complex (PN3Ar)V (1) with an open site in the axial position, which could coordinate with THF, pyridine, and NH3 to form the corresponding adducts (2—4). The vanadium(III) center is redox‐active, as demonstrated by cyclic voltammetry methods and chemical oxidation or reduction. Notably, a novel dinitrogen divanadium complex with a bridging N2 ligand, {K(THF)}2{[PN3Ar]V}2(μ‐N2) (6), was synthesized via treatment of 1 with 1 equivalent of potassium naphthalenide in THF under a N2 atmosphere. The electronic structures and binding properties of 6 are evaluated and discussed based on its DFT calculations. Additionally, these vanadium complexes (1, 5, 6) can serve as catalysts for the conversion of N2 into N(SiMe3)3 in the presence of reductants and Me3SiCl.
Synthesis of Indole‐Fused Eight‐Membered Oxa‐Rings via Palladium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric [4+4] Cycloaddition of Indole‐2,3‐Quinodimethanes with 2‐Alkylidenetrimethylene Carbonates
Authors: Lu Xinhao , Wang Yi , He Chenghan , Liu Yang‐Zi , Deng Wei‐Ping
Published: September 2024

Comprehensive Summary

We report a palladium‐catalyzed asymmetric [4+4] cycloaddition reaction between 2‐alkylidenetrimethylene carbonate and electron‐deficient indole‐2,3‐quinodimethanes (IQDMs). This reaction features exclusive regioselectivity, high yield (up to 98%), excellent enantioselectivity (up to 95% ee), and easy scale‐up without any loss of efficiency, making it valuable for the synthesis of indole‐fused eight‐membered oxa‐rings.
Analysis, design, and implementation of a simple switched‐coupled‐inductor boost DC‐AC inverter
Authors: Chang Yuen‐Haw , Hsu Kai‐Lin
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a simple switched‐coupled‐inductor inverter (SCII), as well as completes the relevant analysis, design, and implementation, for efforts aimed at achieving boost DC‐AC inversion and strengthening closed‐loop regulation. In structure, the power‐part circuit consists of switched‐coupled‐inductor booster and half‐bridge DC‐link inverter, connected in cascade between supply
and output
to work for the AC output range as
(n: turn ratio,
: ratio cycle). As adopting
,
,
, the output
can be lifted to
(i.e., DC 24 V to AC 100 Vrms, 60 Hz). In control, the control‐part circuit consists of phase generator and sinusoidal pulse‐width‐modulation (SPWM) block and generates driver signals of switches according to the feedback signal of
for the needs of timing sequence (to different topologies) and output regulation/robustness (to various desired output/loading variation). The related chip circuit is designed via pre‐/post‐layout Cadence procedure and then practically is implemented on a real chip (D35‐106B‐E0027, TSMC 0.35 μm, 1500 × 1500 μm2, 3.3 V, 2.146 mW, 100 kHz max., 18S/B) via the assistance of TSMC and Chip Implementation Center (CIC). In theory, some relevant analysis and design will be discussed, such as modeling, conversion ratio, power efficiency, parameter selection, system stability, and control design. In implementation, several simulation/experiment cases via testing on the SCII's prototype circuit are illustrated to examine the efficacy of the proposed scheme.