bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implicit Conflict Talk: An Introduction
Authors: Yang Wenxiu , Yang Zhiliang , Storm-Carroll Michelle C.
Published: August 2023

Differing from previous studies which not only focused on explicit conflict talk but also considered it as the central subject for research, this paper classifies conflict talk into two types, “implicit conflict talk” (ICT for short) and “explicit conflict talk” (ECT for short). It first presents a working definition to ICT and draws a dividing line between ICT and ECT from three aspects. It then discusses how ICT relates to other types of conflict talk, such as indirect conflict talk and cool conflict talk. It goes further to discuss the organizations of ICT: its local organization—adjacency pair and its overall organization—pre-sequences and insertion sequence. The whole research is done by illustrating 12 examples from well-known literature, popular movies and television series both in English and Chinese. The aim of the paper is to arouse interest in research on ICT.
Realizing Cultural Component of Worldviews in Languages (Russian and English)
Authors: Goncharova Elena D.
Published: August 2023

The paper considers the interrelation of culture, worldview and language. The cultural differences are acknowledged from the philosophic point of view and determine/are determined by the worldview. The worldview differences predispose the Russian and English national characters and are reflected in the languages: lexis, grammar and speech practices. Vocabulary as the most vulnerable aspect of language registers the changes first. On the basis of the author’s classification of new vocabulary concepts some changes in the Russian worldview and language are treated as a result of the English culture and language influence.
Exogenous hydrogen sulfide improves salt stress tolerance of Reaumuria soongorica seedlings by regulating active oxygen metabolism
Authors: Liu Hanghang , Chong Peifang , Liu Zehua , Bao Xinguang , Tan Bingbing
Published: August 2023

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), as an endogenous gas signaling molecule, plays an important role in plant growth regulation and resistance to abiotic stress. This study aims to investigate the mechanism of exogenous H2S on the growth and development of Reaumuria soongorica seedlings under salt stress and to determine the optimal concentration for foliar application. To investigate the regulatory effects of exogenous H2S (donor sodium hydrosulfide, NaHS) at concentrations ranging from 0 to 1 mM on reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidant system, and osmoregulation in R. soongorica seedlings under 300 mM NaCl stress. The growth of R. soongorica seedlings was inhibited by salt stress, which resulted in a decrease in the leaf relative water content (LRWC), specific leaf area (SLA), and soluble sugar content in leaves, elevated activity levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT); and accumulated superoxide anion (O2–), proline, malondialdehyde (MDA), and soluble protein content in leaves; and increased L-cysteine desulfhydrase (LCD) activity and endogenous H2S content. This indicated that a high level of ROS was produced in the leaves of R. soongorica seedlings and seriously affected the growth and development of R. soongorica seedlings. The exogenous application of different concentrations of NaHS reduced the content of O 2–, proline and MDA, increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the content of osmoregulators (soluble sugars and soluble proteins), while the LCD enzyme activity and the content of endogenous H2S were further increased with the continuous application of exogenous H2S. The inhibitory effects of salt stress on the growth rate of plant height and ground diameter, the LRWC, biomass, and SLA were effectively alleviated. A comprehensive analysis showed that the LRWC, POD, and proline could be used as the main indicators to evaluate the alleviating effect of exogenous H2S on R. soongorica seedlings under salt stress. The optimal concentration of exogenous H2S for R. soongorica seedlings under salt stress was 0.025 mM. This study provides an important theoretical foundation for understanding the salt tolerance mechanism of R. soongorica and for cultivating high-quality germplasm resources.
Mecanismos de reforzamiento, obstaculización y compensación de las (des)ventajas de salud cardiovascular en trayectorias simultáneas de estatus laboral y estrés laboral
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Instituto de Sociología, Ormeño Juan Pablo
Published: August 2023

Bajo un enfoque de curso de vida y dando cuenta tanto de los aspectos simultáneos como cronológicos de los procesos de acumulación de desventajas de salud, esta investigación propone un marco conceptual para analizar la manera en que desigualdades laborales generadas por el estatus laboral y el estrés laboral se transforman en desigualdades de salud a través de tres mecanismos: reforzamiento, obstaculización y compensación. Mediante análisis de secuencias multicanal, se reconstruyen y caracterizan trayectorias simultáneas de estatus laboral y estrés laboral de personas mayores residentes en la ciudad de Santiago y se estudia su relación con indicadores de salud cardiovascular. Se encuentra que, mientras la mayoría transitó por trayectorias libres de estrés laboral, quienes sí lo experimentaron tendieron a hacerlo por periodos extensos. Mientras la exposición al estrés laboral prolongado no parece reforzar ni obstaculizar los impactos en hipertensión provistos por las desigualdades laborales, este sí parece generar importantes divergencias de salud en términos de infarto cardíaco, particularmente a través de un reforzamiento de las desventajas derivadas de la informalidad. La inactividad laboral parece otorgar resultados mejores o similares que la informalidad junto a cualquier extensión de estrés en ambos indicadores de salud.
Pregúntale a la bruja: implicancias sociológicas de las prácticas esotéricas de consultantes de una bruja santiaguina
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Instituto de Sociología, Olivares Nieto María Jesús
Published: August 2023

El fenómeno de pluralismo religioso ha permitido comprender la diversidad actual de trayectorias espirituales, entre las que se cuentan las espiritualidades alternativas. En esta tesis exploro las experiencias de personas que forman parte de una red informal en un nicho esotérico específico, el entorno de una bruja moderna de Santiago, con el fin de caracterizar las particularidades de la pertenencia a este entorno de culto. Esta es una etnografía en la que seguí a una bruja que ofrece servicios de lectura esotérica a través de la retórica de “terapias alternativas” y pude contactar con 9 informantes que consumen sus servicios. Mediante análisis de narrativa, los hallazgos de este trabajo dan cuenta de un espacio que reúne a personas de trayectorias diversas, quienes elaboran tanto prácticas como identidades a partir de la intención de la acción. Así, este subentorno está atravesado por ambigüedades en torno a su naturaleza conjunta a lo espiritual y lo secular expresado en la naturaleza y la función de la lectura esotérica propiamente tal. Además, el trabajo de campo permitió dilucidar formas particulares de organización social, donde se le otorga mayor espacio a la individualidad y las relaciones personales que a formas colectivas. Finalmente, este trabajo también aborda la dimensión de economía moral, dado que la participación en este espacio esotérico está económicamente mediado. Así, los hallazgos indican que existiría una dualidad de percepciones en torno al dinero y el trabajo esotérico, las cuales configuran expectativas y modos de relacionamiento dentro de este subentorno. De esta manera, esta investigación corrobora y amplía la perspectiva de entorno esotérico propuesto por otros autores en países del norte global.
La experiencia de la conversión irreligiosa: análisis de la transición espiritual hacia el escepticismo desde religiones tradicionales en adultos jóvenes residentes en Santiago, Chile
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Instituto de Sociología, Calderón Villarreal Consuelo
Published: August 2023

El presente estudio indaga en las narraciones y significaciones que los individuos sustentan en cuanto al por qué y al cómo de su conversión irreligiosa, denotando el rol que tuvieron las relaciones sociales durante su proceso transformativo, los factores situacionales y las consecuencias tanto en su bienestar personal como en su círculo social. Este objetivo acarrea la intención investigativa de problematizar cómo se está preguntando por denominación (ir)religiosa en encuestas, además de robustecer la subdisciplina sobre secularismos en sociedades contemporáneas. Mediante el empleo de entrevistas semiestructuradas aplicadas a adultos jóvenes residentes en Santiago de Chile, se realizó una mixtura entre análisis de discurso y narrativo con la finalidad de construir un conocimiento tal que rescate los múltiples sentidos relatados que los participantes le atribuyen a su metamorfosis (ir)religiosa/espiritual. Respondiendo al por qué, se identificó la presencia y confluencia de cuatro mecanismos explicativos que convergen en alternativas seculares -racionalización y emocionalidad, crítica a las contradicciones religiosas, desarrollo personal y elementos mundanos para la conversión irreligiosa. Consecuentemente, se destacaron procesos de pérdida y simultánea construcción de sentido, las cuales fueron movilizadas por la interrelación de estos mecanismos para la transición. Aquí la espiritualidad es fundamental al reemplazar la función religiosa, de manera que el individuo se sujetaría a la realidad desde paradigmas personalizados y configurados en base a su propia experiencia vivida. Lo anterior se materializa en la esquematización de un modelo que explica por qué de la conversión irreligiosa. Asimismo, bajo el objetivo de responder al cómo del fenómeno, se identificaron dos tipologías narrativas que buscan caracterizar la forma en que los conversos irreligiosos experimentaron su transición: la flexible-tranquila y la dolorosa-conflictiva.
El caleidoscopio del ocio en la composición temporal de parejas de doble ingreso con hijos/as en Chile
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Instituto de Sociología, Diego Eduardo Neira Martínez
Published: August 2023

El uso del tiempo se distribuye de forma desigual en la población. Ante dicha situación, la presente investigación enmarcada en la Sociología Positiva del Ocio, buscó cualitativamente mediante entrevistas individuales a parejas integrar la perspectiva de género al análisis comparado de las tres esferas del uso del tiempo. Vale decir, la del trabajo remunerado, no remunerado (cuidados y trabajo doméstico) y la del uso del tiempo libre y de ocio (teniendo este último como eje central), incorporando el teletrabajo al análisis en parejas de padres y madres chilenos/as con hijos/as dependientes menores de 15 años que trabajan de forma presencial y remota. Los resultados indican que el ocio se experimenta como la imagen de un caleidoscopio, fragmentada, múltiple y dinámica, cuyos significados varían según contextos y casos. Así, las parejas entrevistadas destacan experimentar al ocio como escaso en sus rutinas, y vivido de formas individuales y grupales a lo largo de las jornadas. Dichas experiencias no son exclusivas del tiempo de ocio, porque además muestran en sus narraciones como éste se ve constantemente entretejido con las otras esferas temporales, mostrándose mayoritariamente en la multitarea, como con el cuidado de los hijos e hijas. Adicionalmente, el teletrabajo llega a complejizar la relación, potenciando el equilibrio de las esferas y entregando más tiempo de ocio y multitarea satisfactoria. Además, matizando el análisis a través del género, se observa que son las mujeres de la muestra las que cuentan con menos tiempo de ocio, el cual está más atravesado por la multitarea en comparación con sus parejas. De forma proyectiva, se espera que las políticas públicas consideren la integración total de las esferas temporales, a través de un análisis de género para el mejoramiento del bienestar a corto y largo plazo de la población. Palabras claves: Ocio, parejas heterosexuales, uso del tiempo, teletrabajo, trabajo doméstico y de cuidado, tiempo libre, equilibrio del uso del tiempo.
Desde la exclusión al reingreso: el viaje de posicionamiento dentro del campo educativo de jóvenes con trayectorias no lineales
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Instituto de Sociología, Conejeros González Gastón
Published: August 2023

A partir de las narrativas de nueve jóvenes, esta investigación se centra en las trayectorias educativas de quienes han sido excluidos del campo educativo y que posteriormente reingresan a escuelas de segunda oportunidad de la fundación Súmate. El estudio tiene como objetivo comprender las historias de vida que llevan a los jóvenes a reingresar al campo educativo después de haber sido excluidos del mismo, examinando sus narrativas en tres temporalidades: proceso de exclusión, periodo fuera del sistema educativo y reingreso, analizadas desde la perspectiva teórica de Bourdieu. Los resultados muestran cómo la exclusión educativa se da por la colisión de las experiencias vulnerables de vida de los jóvenes con las exigencias del sistema educativo, la importancia del autoanálisis en la vida de los estudiantes para darle un sentido subjetivo a la educación y el valor de distintas formas de capital para lograr el reingreso.
Climatic and Fruit Productivity Trends in Solan District, Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Bharti Harish , Panatu Aditi , Thakur Yamini , Randhawa Surjeet Singh , Dhiman Satpal , Bhardwaj S. K. , Rana Ranbir Singh
Published: August 2023

The shortened duration of the winter season in the Himalayan region caused by snow melting has a negative impact on fruit crop growth and productivity. The present study focused on examining the impact of climate change on fruit crops in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, India, situated in the Himalayan region. The trend analysis of climatic variables (temperature and rainfall) along with the productivity of fruit crops was investigated. The climate data spanning 30 years (1990–2019), including average temperature (maximum, minimum, and diurnal) and annual rainfall used during crop development stages like pre-flowering, flowering, and fruit-setting stages. To evaluate climatic trends, the Standardized Anomaly Index (SAI) and Mann-Kendall Test for quantification were employed. The Multivariate Linear Regression Analysis was performed to establish a correlation between climatic variables and crop productivity. The findings indicated that during the pre-flowering stage, there was a gradual increase in average maximum temperature at a rate of 0.001°C per year, along with a corresponding rise in diurnal temperature at a rate of 0.036°C per year. However, annual rainfall and average minimum temperature exhibited non-significant decreasing trends, with rates of -0.044°C and -0.033 mm, respectively. During the flowering stage, there was a significant increase in minimum temperature at a rate of 0.151°C per year, while diurnal temperature exhibited a significant decrease of -0.158°C per year. Other variables did not exhibit substantial changes during this stage. In the fruit-setting stage, only the minimum temperature demonstrated a significant decrease over the study period. The response to climate change revealed an overall positive trend for all fruit crops, leading to higher productivity. The correlation study indicated that the phenological stages of each crop were more positively influenced by temperature than rainfall, owing to existing climatic variations. The current climatic conditions in the Solan district were found to be favorable and productive for crop development, as all crops showed increased productivity based on the trend analysis. The study highlights climatic trends and their impact on the productivity of fruit crops in the Himalayan region, which is useful for agricultural planning and adaptation strategies in response to changing climatic conditions.
Millets Based Integrated Farming System for Food and Nutritional Security, Constraints and Agro-Diversification Strategies to Fight Global Hidden Hunger: A Review
Authors: Tiwari Himanshu , Singh P. K. , Naresh R. K. , M. Muhammad Suhaib Ismayil , S. Monika , Islam Asif , Kumar Suneel , Singh Kundan Veer , Pandey Alok Kumar , Shukla Aditya
Published: August 2023

Globally, there is an increase in hidden hunger; a type of malnutrition brought about by a lack of certain micronutrients (Mg, Na, K, Cu, Mn, Mb, Zn, Cr, Su, and Cl). This review tries to investigate the possibilities of millet-based integrated farming system as a tool to tackle this global menace. Small-seeded grains known as millets are renowned for their great nutritional value and resistance to a variety of agro-ecological situations. Millets are high in fibre, protein and micronutrients However, there has been a drop in consumption and cultivation of millets in many countries despite their nutritional potential because of a variety of issues which include: limited access to better seed varieties, a lack of post-harvest infrastructure, shaky market relations, and insufficient policy backing millet production and sales. This review tends to offer important suggestions for overcoming these limitations and encouraging agro-diversification initiatives. These suggestions are: stepping up research and development to improve the adaptability and nutritional value of millet varieties, putting policies in place that support millet marketing and production, setting up a productive post-harvest infrastructure, and raising consumer awareness of and demand for millet-based products. Moreover, encouraging cooperation among many stakeholders, which includes: farmers, researchers, policymakers, and consumers, is essential to create a favourable climate for the adoption and expansion of integrated agricultural systems based on millets. Conclusion: Embracing millets as a cornerstone of integrated farming systems will allow diversification of agricultural methods, which will improve ecosystem services such as soil health and biodiversity which can considerably help to combat hidden hunger and ensure global food and nutritional security.
Role of Essential Oils of Spices and Herbs and Their Applications: A Review
Authors: Prabhu T. , Shenbagavalli S. , Shalini K. , Sundraiah S. , Ravindran C. , Geethanjali S. , Sangeetha S.
Published: August 2023

Essential oils (EOs) are pure, fragrant, volatile liquids that are obtained from particular plants. Almost all plant organs, particularly the flowers, buds, leaves, seeds, stems, and fruits, produce essential oils [16]. Terpenes, phenolic chemicals, and alcohol make up the complex mixture of secondary metabolites that make up EOs [8]. EOs possess a wide range of biological activities including antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ones. Antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory biological actions are only a few of the many biological properties that EOs have. EOs are utilised in sanitary products (fragrances for home cleaning products), cosmetics (perfumes and makeup products), agriculture (bio-pesticide and repellant), and aromatherapy as natural cures. The earliest, simplest, and most widely utilised techniques for extracting Eos include steam distillation and hydrodistillation [17].

The antibacterial and antioxidant qualities of thymus, cinnamon and oregano essential oils intended for use in the meat sector. Chinese cinnamon and turmeric essential oils have been employed as additives in biodegradable coatings and films [21]. Some plants and EO, including clove, thyme, rosemary, oregano, cinnamon, and pimento, have been found to have strong inhibitory effects on a variety of bacterial pathogens. the essential oils of a number of plant species, including thymus, mentha, artemisia, limnophila, salvia, and rosmarinus, are effective against a variety of arthropod species, including the silverleaf whitefly, aphids, bihar hairy caterpillars, cabbage loopers, diamond back moths, and leaf rollers, which are major pests of horticultural and stored grain crops [45,46]. Patchouli essential oil has also been discovered to be a highly effective substitute for shielding skin from UV radiation. EOs used in shampoo formulations with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5, such as lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), may have synergistic effects.
Gain scheduling model predictive control for dynamic positioning of floating caissons at different draughts
Authors: Sainz Jose Joaquin , Herrero Elías Revestido , Llata Jose Ramon , Velasco Francisco J. , Gonzalez‐Sarabia Esther , Rodriguez‐Luis Alvaro , Fernandez‐Ruano Sergio , Guanche Raul
Published: August 2023

This article presents a model predictive control for dynamic positioning (DP) of floating caisson at different draughts. This article focuses on the maneuvres related to the control of the spatial situation of the caisson in connexion with the final caisson reference point and the process of descending to the seabed desired location. Different models of the caisson in order to perform realistic simulations and to test the robustness of the controller are considered. A gain scheduling model predictive control (GSMPC) has been implemented, with parameter switch among four model predictive control (MPC) controllers. In this way, a specific MPC for the dynamics of each draught will be used in each caisson model corresponding to a draught. Furthermore, a Kalman filter has been implemented to remove the disturbances. Finally, in the simulations results it is compared the performance of the proposed controller with a clasic one and also it is checked how the proposed controller is able to position the system in all draughts with stability and accurate dynamic control of the system.
Motor Neuron‐Specific Membrane Depolarization of Transected Peripheral Nerves by Upconversion Nanoparticle‐Mediated Optogenetics
Authors: Yan Jun , Wan Yunjing , Ji Zhe , Li Chenxi , Tao Chengcheng , Tang Yunjiao , Zhang Yuze , Liu Yaobo , Liu Jian
Published: August 2023

It remains a fundamental challenge to administer guided regeneration and functional recovery of peripheral nerves after the complete transection. Herein, a new concept to specifically depolarize the membranes of the target acetylcholinergic motor neurons by near infrared (NIR) laser‐triggered optogenetics for promoted functional reconnection of transected peripheral nerves is reported. The approach features the anchoring of acetylcholine‐modified upconversion nanoparticles (UCNP) onto the acetylcholine receptors on the postsynaptic membrane and selective infection of the motor neural cells with adeno‐associated virus loading channelrhodopsin 2 (ChR2). The upconversion fluorescence mediated by UCNP can activate ChR2 protein for membrane depolarization of the acetylcholinergic motor neurons. It induces a cascade of events, including axonal regeneration, Schwann cells remyelination, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor expression enhancement, and the remodeling of neuromuscular junctions (NMJ) from muscle denervation, which leads to promoted functional reconnection of the injured peripheral nerves. The results of behavioral and electrophysiological experiments further verify the functional recovery of transected peripheral nerves by the approach. The UCNP‐mediated optogenetic strategy of minimally invasive, precisely guided, and functional reconnection of injured nerves shall bring great benefits to both fundamental research and translational development in neural regenerative medicine.
Giant Atomic Swirl in Graphene Bilayers with Biaxial Heterostrain
Authors: Mesple Florie , Walet Niels R. , Trambly de Laissardière Guy , Guinea Francisco , Došenović Djordje , Okuno Hanako , Paillet Colin , Michon Adrien , Chapelier Claude , Renard Vincent T.
Published: August 2023

The study of moiré engineering started with the advent of van der Waals heterostructures, in which stacking 2D layers with different lattice constants leads to a moiré pattern controlling their electronic properties. The field entered a new era when it was found that adjusting the twist between two graphene layers led to strongly‐correlated‐electron physics and topological effects associated with atomic relaxation. A twist is now routinely used to adjust the properties of 2D materials. This study investigates a new type of moiré superlattice in bilayer graphene when one layer is biaxially strained with respect to the other—so‐called biaxial heterostrain. Scanning tunneling microscopy measurements uncover spiraling electronic states associated with a novel symmetry‐breaking atomic reconstruction at small biaxial heterostrain. Atomistic calculations using experimental parameters as inputs reveal that a giant atomic swirl forms around regions of aligned stacking to reduce the mechanical energy of the bilayer. Tight‐binding calculations performed on the relaxed structure show that the observed electronic states decorate spiraling domain wall solitons as required by topology. This study establishes biaxial heterostrain as an important parameter to be harnessed for the next step of moiré engineering in van der Waals multilayers.
In Situ Monitoring of Nanocrystal Formation and Ion Migration in Lead Halide Perovskite Metal–Organic Framework Composites
Authors: Wu Xiayan , Omagari Shun , Gao Jinwei , Vacha Martin
Published: August 2023

Combining all‐inorganic perovskites (CsPbX3) with metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) offers great promise for efficient optoelectronic applications, but a lack of understanding of the microscopic mechanisms of host‐guest interactions that lead to stability limits their further advancement. Herein, a series of CsPbX3‐MOF composites is studied based on twinned Pb‐X‐based MOFs (X = Cl, Br) to explore the effect of the local ionic environment on their crystallization kinetics and the local photoluminescence (PL) properties by in situ fluorescence microscopy. Real‐time monitoring of the crystal growth process and PL characterization after complete crystallization shows a large compositional heterogeneity in the embedded mixed halogen perovskites. This heterogeneity is a result of the local ionic environment of the individual nanocrystals (NCs). In addition, the compositional heterogeneity is a dynamic phenomenon, manifested as spectral fluctuations of individual NCs on the time scales of tens of seconds under excitation. Compositional changes correlated over distances of micrometers point to collective ionic diffusion present in the system. This use of the in situ PL spectroscopy enables unique insights into the fundamental photophysical properties of perovskite‐MOF composites and will provide essential feedback for their further development and potential applications such as light‐emitting diodes and ion sensors.
Revolutionizing Low‐Cost Solar Cells with Machine Learning: A Systematic Review of Optimization Techniques
Authors: Bhatti Satyam , Manzoor Habib Ullah , Michel Bruno , Bonilla Ruy Sebastian , Abrams Richard , Zoha Ahmed , Hussain Sajjad , Ghannam Rami
Published: August 2023

Machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) methods are emerging as promising technologies for enhancing the performance of low‐cost photovoltaic (PV) cells in miniaturized electronic devices. Indeed, ML is set to significantly contribute to the development of more efficient and cost‐effective solar cells. This systematic review offers an extensive analysis of recent ML techniques in designing novel solar cell materials and structures, highlighting their potential to transform the low‐cost solar cell research and development landscape. The review encompasses a variety of ML approaches, such as Gaussian process regression (GPR), Bayesian optimization (BO), and deep neural networks (DNNs), which have proven effective in boosting the efficiency, stability, and affordability of solar cells. The findings of this review indicate that GPR combined with BO is the most promising method for developing low‐cost solar cells. These techniques can significantly speed up the discovery of new PV materials and structures while enhancing the efficiency and stability of low‐cost solar cells. The review concludes with insights on the challenges, prospects, and future directions of ML in low‐cost solar cell research and development.
Ultralow‐Power Compact Artificial Synapse Based on a Ferroelectric Fin Field‐Effect Transistor for Spatiotemporal Information Processing
Authors: Zhang Zhaohao , Zhan Guohui , Gan Weizhuo , Cheng Yan , Zhang Xumeng , Peng Yue , Tang Jianshi , Zhang Fan , Huo Jiali , Xu Gaobo , Zhang Qingzhu , Wu Zhenhua , Liu Yan , Lv Hangbing , Liu Qi , Han Genquan , Yin Huaxiang , Luo Jun , Wang Wenwu
Published: August 2023

Artificial synapses are key elements in building bioinspired, neuromorphic computing systems. Ferroelectric field‐effect transistors (FeFETs) with excellent controllability and complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) compatibility are favorable to achieving synaptic functions with low power consumption and high scalability. However, because of the only nonvolatile ferroelectric (Fe) characteristics in the FeFET, it is difficult to develop bioplausible short‐term synaptic elements for spatiotemporal information processing. By judiciously combining defects (DE) and Fe domains in gate stacks, a compact artificial synapse featuring spatiotemporal information processing on a single Fe–DE fin FET (FinFET) is proposed. The devices are designed to work in a separate DE mode to induce short‐term plasticity by spontaneous charge detrapping, and a hybrid Fe–DE mode to trigger long‐term plasticity through the coupling of defects and Fe domains. The capability of the compact synapse is demonstrated by differentiating 16 temporal inputs. Moreover, the highly controllable static electricity of advanced FinFETs leads to an ultralow power of 2 fJ spike−1. An all Fe–DE FinFET reservoir computing (RC) system is then constructed that achieves a recognition accuracy of 97.53% in digit classification. This work enables constructing RC systems with fully advanced CMOS‐compatible devices featuring highly energy‐efficient and low‐hardware systems.
Back‐End and Flexible Substrate Compatible Analog Ferroelectric Field‐Effect Transistors for Accurate Online Training in Deep Neural Network Accelerators
Authors: Majumdar Sayani , Zeimpekis Ioannis
Published: August 2023

Online training of deep neural networks (DNN) can be significantly accelerated by performing in situ vector‐matrix multiplication in a crossbar array of analog memories. However, training accuracies often suffer due to nonideal properties of synapses such as nonlinearity, asymmetry, limited bit precision, and dynamic weight update range within a constrained power budget. Herein, a fully scalable process is reported for digital and analog ferroelectric memory transistors with possibilities for both volatile and nonvolatile data retention and <4 V operation that would be suitable as programmable synaptic weight elements. Ferroelectric copolymer P(VDF‐TrFE) gate insulator and 2D semiconductor MoS2as the n‐type semiconducting channel material make them suitable for flexible and wearable substrate integration. The ferroelectric‐only devices show excellent performance as digital nonvolatile memory operating at <±5 V while the hybrid ferroelectric–dielectric devices show quasi‐continuous resistive switching resulting from gradual ferroelectric domain rotation. Analog conductance states of the hybrid devices allow good linearity and symmetry of weight updates and produce a dynamic conductance range of 104with >16 reproducible conducting states. Network training experiments with these ferroelectric field‐effect transistors show >96% classification accuracy with Modified National Institute of Standards and Technology (MNIST) handwritten datasets highlighting their potential for implementation in scaled DNN architectures.
Biomarkers related to silicosis and pulmonary function in individuals exposed to silica
Authors: Lombardi Elisa M. S. , Mizutani Rafael F. , Terra‐Filho Mario , Ubiratan de Paula Santos
Published: August 2023

Background

The identification of markers that can facilitate the early diagnosis of silicosis has remained challenging. We evaluated the association of inflammatory markers with the presence of silicosis and lung function impairment in individuals exposed to silica.

Methods

Individuals exposed and not exposed to silica were assessed by occupational history, clinical findings, lung function, chest imaging findings, and inflammatory markers.

Results

Among 297 men evaluated, 51 were unexposed controls (G1), 149 were exposed to silica without silicosis (G2), and 97 were exposed to silica with silicosis (G3). Inflammatory marker levels were higher in G3 than in G2 and G1. Platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), soluble tumor necrosis factor II (sTNFRII), and macrophage inflammatory protein‐4 (MIP‐4) were associated with silicosis, and LDH, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), sTNFRII, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1), soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (sVCAM‐1), and fibrinogen were negatively associated with lung function.

Conclusion

Blood inflammatory markers are associated with silicosis and impaired lung function.
Effect of Al‐based metal‐organic frameworks/halloysite nanotubes on the flame retardancy of silicone rubber foam
Authors: Deng Jun , Zhao Heng , Zhang Tian‐Tian , Kang Fu‐Ru , Zhou Ting‐Bin
Published: August 2023

Two kinds of Al‐based metal‐organic frameworks (Al‐MOFs), MIL‐53(Al), and MIL‐96(Al), were synthesized by the solvothermal method and then characterized using SEM, XRD, and FTIR. The Al‐MOFs and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were blended and added to silicone rubber foams (SiFs). The mechanical properties and flame retardancy of the composites were tested and analyzed using universal tensile tester, limiting oxygen index (LOI), vertical combustion tester, cone calorimeter, TG, SEM, EDS, and FTIR. The results show that Al‐MOFs synthesized by the solvothermal method have high crystallinity and purity. Compared with pure SiFs, the LOI of SiFs with 2 wt% MIL‐53(Al) and 2 wt% HNTs increased to 29.4%, while total heat release and total smoke release decreased by 36.9% and 32.4%. The flame retardant mechanism of the composites is mainly reflected in the condensed phase. MIL‐53(Al) and HNTs can synergistically promote the formation of a dense carbon layer, blocking heat and oxygen from entering the SiFs matrix.
Between the law and itself: An examination of the best interests of the child standard in the New York city family court
Authors: Ingber Hannah
Published: August 2023

This article describes a pilot research study done by the author which focused on the judicial implementation of the “best interests of the child” standard, also known as Article 5, Section 70 of the New York State Domestic Relations Law. This is the statutory principle that guides determinations of child custody in the USA. The ambiguous nature of this law grants judges significant discretion when determining the custodial arrangements for children, as it does not explicitly define what constitutes the best interests of a child. The lack of consensus surrounding this law results in marked inconsistencies in its application. In the absence of external guidance, the author presumed that judges rely heavily on their individual knowledge and conceptualization of childhood when making custody decisions, especially those regarding facts relayed by or about children. Through in‐depth interviews conducted with seven judges from the City of New York, this study sheds light on this complex and essential issue. By incorporating insights from sociological theories of law and childhood, this study provides further insight into how judges arrive at their rulings and can be used to assist in improving the lives of families who must interact with the legal system.
Deer antler reserve mesenchyme cells with hyaluronan alleviates cartilage damage in a rat model
Authors: Jia Boyin , Li Xin , Han Xintong , Ma Fuquan , Zhang Linlin , Wang Xue , Yan Xinrui , Zhang Yu , Li Jianming , Hu Pengfei , Wang Yusu , Diao Naichao , Shi Kun , Zong Ying , Du Rui , Li Chunyi
Published: August 2023

Reserve mesenchyme cells (RMCs) of deer antlers have been considered as the promising cell source for repairing injury‐induced articular cartilage or cartilage degeneration. However, systematic investigation of RMC differentiation to repair injured cartilage and its combination with biomaterials has not been reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of RMCs in combination with hyaluronic acid (HA) in promoting chondrogenic differentiation through simulating native environments and their efficacy in articular cartilage repair. The RMCs were cultured in vitro for the characterization of these cells, including morphology, surface marker expression, and multipotent differentiation potential (adipogenesis, chondrogenesis, and osteogenesis). When combined with HA in vitro, RMCs increased expression levels of the chondrogenic marker gene (COL II and COMP) but decreased levels of the hypertrophic marker gene (COL X). Using a rat articular cartilage defect model, we evaluated the effects of RMCs in combination with HA on cartilage defect repair at 4 and 8 weeks through macroscopical, histological, and immunohistochemical examinations. Compared with other groups, treatment with RMCs + HA reduced cartilage loss and degree of cartilage surface worn, whereas cartilage content was significantly increased. These results suggest that the combination of RMCs with HA can effectively repair cartilage defects. We believe that effective cartilage defect repair will benefit from the use of RMCs together with favorable biomaterials, such as HA.
Exploring the association between social skills struggles and social communication difficulties and depression in youth with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Pascoe Molly Isabel , Forbes Kaitlyn , de la Roche Laura , Derby Brianne , Psaradellis Elaine , Anagnostou Evdokia , Nicolson Rob , Georgiades Stelios , Kelley Elizabeth
Published: August 2023

Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by social communication difficulties and social skills abilities that are significantly differ from neurotypical populations as well as restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests. Furthermore, many autistic youth experience co‐occurring conditions, with one of the most common being depression. This depression is suggested to be, in part, the result of the relative social isolation experienced by autistic youth. Therefore, it is important to examine social functioning differences in autistic youth and their association with depression. There has been limited research investigating the association between social communication difficulties and depression, or the association between social skills struggles and depression, and no research investigating both of these in the same population. We found that social communicative symptoms of autism (as measured by the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) were not associated with depression scores (as measured by the Revised Checklist for Anxiety and Depression) after controlling for age, sex, and IQ. In contrast, we did find a significant association between social skills struggles (as measured by the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System‐2) and depression in the same sample. Higher social skills struggles were associated with higher depression scores after controlling for age, sex, and IQ. Reasons for the potential discrepancy between these findings are discussed, and clinical implications of these findings are explored.
Comparative Analysis of Antioxidant, Anticholinesterase, and Antibacterial Activity of Microbial Chondroitin Sulfate and Commercial Chondroitin Sulfate
Authors: Unver Tuba , Erenler Ayse Sebnem , Bingul Murat , Boga Mehmet
Published: August 2023

Chondroitin synthesis was performed using the recombinant Escherichia coli(C2987) strain created by transforming the plasmid pETM6‐PACF‐vgb, which carries the genes responsible for chondroitin synthesis, kfoA, kfoC, kfoF, and the Vitreoscilla hemoglobin gene (vgb). Then, Microbial chondroitin sulfate (MCS)’s antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and antibacterial activity were compared with commercial chondroitin sulfate (CCS). The antioxidant studies revealed that the MCS and CCS samples could be potential targets for scavenging radicals and cupric ion reduction. MCS demonstrated better antioxidant properties in the ABTS assay with the IC50 value of 0.66 mg than CCS. MCS showed 2.5‐fold for DPPH and almost 5‐fold for ABTS⋅+ (with a value of 3.85 mg/mL) better activity than the CCS. However, the compounds were not active for cholinesterase enzyme inhibitions. In the antibacterial assay, the Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of MCS against S. aureus, E. aerogenes, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and K. pneumoniae (0.12, 0.18, 0.12, 0.18, and 0.18 g/mL, respectively) were found to be greater than that of CCS (0.42, 0.48, 0.36, 0.36, and 0.36 g/mL, respectively). This study demonstrates that MCS is a potent pharmacological agent due to its physicochemical properties, and its usability as a therapeutic‐preventive agent will shed light on future studies.
A case of varicella zoster infection in kidney transplant recipient using immunosuppressant
Authors: Adam Abdirahim Ali Nur , Mohamed Abdulrashid Hashi , Jeele Mohamed Osman Omar
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Kidney transplant recipients must take lifelong immunosuppression to prevent acute or chronic allograft injury. However, they are also at risk for opportunistic infections due to compromised immune cell functionality. Disseminated HZ in kidney transplant recipients can result in a very high overall mortality rate of up to 30%. Here we described a 23‐year‐old male patient who presented to the emergency room with a complaint of high‐grade fever, chills, and non‐dermatomal lesion of varicella zoster skin infection that affected the face and trunk. After investigation the patient was diagnosed with chickenpox clinically and was managed with complete recovery and early hospital discharge.
Dual diagnosis of trisomy 21 and lethal perinatal Gaucher disease as a cause of non‐immune hydrops fetalis in a twin pregnancy for a consanguineous couple
Authors: Al Harthy Talib , Colaiacovo Samantha , Gratton Robert J. , Coughlin Kevin , Siu Victoria Mok , Prasad Chitra , Rupar Charles , Saleh Maha
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Non‐immune hydrops is a prenatal finding which can occur due to an underlying genetic diagnosis such as common chromosomal aneuploidy (Trisomy 21, Turner syndrome etc.). It is extremely rare to have more than one genetic cause of hydrops fetalis in a single pregnancy. This report describes a dichorionic diamniotic pregnancy for a consanguineous couple where noninvasive prenatal testing was “high risk” for Trisomy 21. Family declined amniocentesis and opted for postnatal genetic testing. The pregnancy was later complicated with severe hydrops fetalis leading to demise for one of the twins, and a premature delivery of the other twin who had remarkable collodion not in keeping with Trisomy 21. Postnatal genetic investigations confirmed both Trisomy 21 and prenatal lethal Gaucher disease in the survivor twin. This case report highlights some of the prenatal diagnostic challenges for a consanguineous couple where a rare cause of fetal hydrops was concealed in a setting of a common chromosomal aneuploidy. The prompt postnatal diagnosis of perinatal lethal Gaucher disease, confirmed with undetectable glucocerebrosidase enzyme activity, assisted the family in the decision of providing palliative care for their infant who was quickly deteriorating. The importance of postnatal genetic evaluation and its impact on immediate patient management in an NICU setting is emphasized. This dual diagnosis was significant for the couple as it explained pervious pregnancy losses and has important future recurrence risk implications.
Anesthetic challenges in difficult airway in a patient with maxillary carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Karki Kamala , Pant Prashant , Chhetri Suchit Thapa , Sah Sumit Kumar , Bogati Kanchan
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Airway management in patients with maxillary carcinoma presents unique challenges. To ensure safety, a tailored and collaborative approach is essential. This is a case where anesthetic plan of awake fiberoptic oral endotracheal intubation was chosen.
Harlequin color change in a premature infant: A case report
Authors: Yang Linzhi , Zhuang Guiying , Zhang Dahu , Liu Weiqi
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

This case of HCC report contributes to the knowledge of HCC in China. In this case, the longer duration of the color change observed in this case compared to previous reports, which will be useful for all medical practitioners.

Harlequin color change (HCC) is a benign skin color change that lasts for a short time with no obvious physical abnormalities. Its pathogenesis is still unclear. It occurs in newborns, especially premature infants. However, few cases of HCC have been reported in China. Herein, we report a case of HCC. The infant was born at 34 + 4 weeks of gestation and was admitted to the hospital due to metabolic acidosis and neonatal pneumonia after birth. On the third day after birth, there were two red bands with obvious edges along the body centreline, and the erythema characteristics were consistent with those of HCC. The immature hypothalamus of newborns may cause the occurrence of HCC. At the same time, some drugs (midazolam), hypoxemia, and blood sampling may also be associated with HCC during neonatal hospitalization. All doctors should be thoroughly knowledgeable about the clinical characteristics of HCC and avoid using unnecessary drugs during treatment.
Synthesis of Partially Fluorinated Alkyl Triflates by Electrochemical Fluorination (Simons Process)
Authors: Knuplez Tanja , Schneider Leon N. , Preitschopf Tobias , Bejaoui Younes K. J. , Zapf Ludwig , Schopper Nils , Maibom Kristina A. M. , Sprenger Jan A. P. , Gehrke Franziska , Lorenzen Sabine , Graf Roland , Bertermann Rüdiger , Fischer Ingo , Ignat'ev Nikolai V. , Finze Maik
Published: August 2023

A scalable straightforward synthesis of monofluoro‐ and difluoromethyl triflate CF3SO2OCH2F (MH2F) and CF3SO2OCHF2 (MHF2) through electrochemical fluorination (ECF, Simons process) of methyl triflate MH3 in anhydrous hydrogen fluoride at nickel anodes is presented. The ECF method is also feasible for the preparation of the deuterated analogues CF3SO2OCD2F (MD2F) and CF3SO2OCDF2 (MD2F). Surprisingly, no H/D exchange occurs during ECF of CF3SO2OCD3 (MD3); this provides further evidence for a NiF3/NiF4‐mediated ECF mechanism. The ECF of selected partially fluorinated ethyl triflates is described, and electrochemical fluorination of CF3SO2OCH2CF3 (EH2F3) leads to the until now unknown chiral CF3SO2OCHFCF3 (EHFF3). The analogous fluoromethyl and fluoroethyl nonaflates are also accessible by ECF. This study contains detailed spectroscopic, structural, and thermal data on (fluoro)methyl and fluoro(ethyl) triflates.