bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translating tools for better parent-based assessment: An exploratory study
Authors: Abdoola Shabnam
Published: July 2015

Background: Current speech language assessment and intervention measures are not always culturally valid, as they are not standardised specifically for the various cultural groups within the South African population; and thus need to be adapted.Objectives: The objective of this study was to examine the appropriateness and utility of translations of the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) instrument (60 month age group) from English to the Hindi language and culture, which is represented in South Africa. Methods: Biographical questionnaires, ASQ and evaluation thereof were translated in Hindi and completed by parents of 15 typically developing South African preschool children of Indian origin, at the 60 month age level (including children between 57 and 66 months). Results: Participants reported that the questions were well phrased, and that illustrations and tips helped them to complete the questionnaires quickly and accurately. They preferred to be questioned in Hindi, which helped them understand the questions and made it easier to provide the necessary information to answer the questions. Conclusions: In conclusion, it is evident that this translation of the ASQ (60 month age group) from English to Hindi served as an appropriate tool for use with the middle socioeconomic class Hindi (Indian) language and culture. The results of this study would assist to determine the functionality of culturally and linguistically valid assessment tools for different populations, and would contribute to the development of Early Childhood Intervention as a whole in South Africa. It would also contribute to the development of multilingual informal school-readiness screening questionnaires appropriate for the South African context. This is particularly relevant, as school-readiness assessments take place at 60 months to ensure that the child is ready to learn by school age (6–7 years).[PDF to follow]
Giant peritoneal loose bodies
Authors: Van Zyl Chris , Davis Razaan , Hurter Delmé , Van der Westhuizen Gerhard
Published: July 2015

Giant peritoneal loose bodies are rare lesions, originating from auto-amputated appendices epiploicae. They may cause urinary or gastrointestinal obstruction and, should the radiologist not be familiar with the entity, can potentially be confused with malignant or parasitic lesions.Familiarity with their characteristic computed tomographic features is essential to prevent unnecessary surgery in the asymptomatic patient. We present a case of a 70-year-old man diagnosed with two giant peritoneal loose bodies.
Temporal bone imaging
Authors: Arkink E. B , Frijns J.H.M. , Verbist B.M.
Published: July 2015

No abstract available.
Discovering and exploring ubuntu-language in the dialogue between the Dutch Reformed Church and the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa
Authors: Meiring Lieze
Published: July 2015

Discussions with members of the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) and the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa (URCSA) in Ohrigstad illustrate the possibilities of ubuntu-language in overcoming racism and prejudice. After proposing a number of meanings and values related to ubuntu, this research explores the role of ubuntu-language � and at times the lack thereof � in the concrete relationship between these two faith communities as an expression of recent South African history. Ubuntu-language seems to offer unique outcomes in this relationship in strengthening identity, unleashing vitality, celebrating diversity, awakening solidarity, revealing humanity, bolstering individualism and enhancing Christianity.
On Rational Equivalence in Tropical Geometry
Authors: Allermann Lars , Hampe Simon , Rau Johannes
Published: July 2015

This article discusses the concept of rational equivalence in tropical geometry (and replaces an older, imperfect version). We give the basic definitions in the context of tropical varieties without boundary points and prove some basic properties. We then compute the “bounded” Chow groups of Rn by showing that they are isomorphic to the group of fan cycles. The main step in the proof is of independent interest. We show that every tropical cycle in Rn is a sum of (translated) fan cycles. This also proves that the intersection ring of tropical cycles is generated in codimension 1 (by hypersurfaces).
Smoke aerosol properties and ageing effects for northern temperate and boreal regions derived from AERONET source and age attribution
Authors: Nikonovas T. , North P. R. J. , Doerr S. H.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. Particulate emissions from wildfires impact human health and have a large but uncertain effect on climate. Modelling schemes depend on information about emission factors, emitted particle microphysical and optical properties and ageing effects, while satellite retrieval algorithms make use of characteristic aerosol models to improve retrieval. Ground-based remote sensing provides detailed aerosol characterisation, but does not contain information on source. Here, a method is presented to estimate plume origin land cover type and age for AERONET aerosol observations, employing trajectory modelling using the HYSPLIT model, and satellite active fire and aerosol optical thickness (AOT) observations from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and Along Track Scanning Radiometer (AATSR). It is applied to AERONET stations located in or near northern temperate and boreal forests for the period 2002–2013. The results from 629 fire attributions indicate significant differences in size distributions and particle optical properties between different land cover types and plume age. Smallest fine mode median radius (Rfv) are attributed to plumes from cropland and/or natural vegetation mosaic (0.143 μm) and grassland (0.157 μm) fires. North American evergreen needleleaf forest emissions show a significantly smaller Rfv (0.164 μm) than plumes from Eurasian mixed forests (0.193 μm) and plumes attributed to the land cover types with sparse tree cover – open shrubland (0.185 μm) and woody savannas (0.184 μm). The differences in size distributions are related to inferred variability in plume concentrations between the land cover types. Significant differences are observed between day and night emissions, with daytime emissions showing larger particle sizes. Smoke is predominantly scattering for all of the classes with median single scattering albedo at 440 nm (SSA(440)) values close to 0.95 except the cropland emissions which have an SSA(440) value of 0.9. Plumes aged for 4 days or older have median Rfv larger by ~0.02 μm compared to young smoke. Differences in size were consistent with a decrease in the Ångström Exponent and increase in the asymmetry parameter. Only an insignificant increase in SSA(λ) with ageing was found.
Updated ozone absorption cross section will reduce air quality compliance
Authors: Sofen E. D. , Evans M. J. , Lewis A. C.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. Photometric ozone measurements rely upon an accurate value of the ozone absorption cross section at 253.65 nm. This has recently been reevaluated by Viallon et al. (2015) as 1.8 % smaller than the accepted value (Hearn, 1961) used for the preceding fifty years. Thus, ozone measurements that applied the older cross section systematically underestimate the amount of ozone in air. We correct the reported historical surface data from North America and Europe and find that this modest change in cross section has a significant impact on the number of locations that are out of compliance with air quality regulations if the air quality standards remain the same. We find 18, 23, and 20 % increases in the number of sites that are out of compliance with current US, Canadian, and European ozone air quality health standards for the year 2012. Should the new cross section value be applied, it would impact attainment of air quality standards and compliance with relevant clean air acts, unless the air quality target values themselves were also changed proportionately. We draw attention to how a small change in gas metrology has a global impact on attainment and compliance with legal air quality standards. We suggest that further laboratory work to evaluate the new cross section is needed and suggest three possible technical and policy responses should the new cross section be adopted.
Dehydration effects from contrails in a coupled contrail–climate model
Authors: Schumann U. , Penner J. E. , Chen Y. , Zhou C. , Graf K.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. Uptake of water by contrails in ice-supersaturated air and release of water after ice particle advection and sedimentation dehydrates the atmosphere at flight levels and redistributes humidity mainly to lower levels. The dehydration is investigated by coupling a plume-scale contrail model with a global aerosol–climate model. The contrail model simulates all the individual contrails forming from global air traffic for meteorological conditions as defined by the climate model. The computed contrail-cirrus properties compare reasonably with theoretical concepts and observations. The mass of water in aged contrails may exceed 106 times the mass of water emitted from aircraft. Many of the ice particles sediment and release water in the troposphere, on average 700 m below the mean flight levels. Simulations with and without coupling are compared. The drying at contrail levels causes thinner and longer lived contrails with about 15 % reduced contrail radiative forcing (RF). The reduced RF from contrails is of the order 0.06 W m−2, slightly larger than estimated earlier because of higher soot emissions. For normal traffic, the RF from dehydration is small compared to interannual variability. A case with 100 times increased emissions is used to overcome statistical uncertainty. The contrails impact the entire hydrological cycle in the atmosphere by reducing the total water column and the cover of high and low-level clouds. For normal traffic, the dehydration changes contrail RF by positive shortwave and negative longwave contributions of order 0.04 W m−2, with a small negative net RF. The total net RF from contrails and dehydration remains within the range of previous estimates.
Methane emission estimates using chamber and tracer release experiments for a municipal waste water treatment plant
Authors: Yver Kwok C. E. , Müller D. , Caldow C. , Lebègue B. , Mønster J. G. , Rella C. W. , Scheutz C. , Schmidt M. , Ramonet M. , Warneke T. , Broquet G. , Ciais P.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. This study presents two methods for estimating methane emissions from a waste water treatment plant (WWTP) along with results from a measurement campaign at a WWTP in Valence, France. These methods, chamber measurements and tracer release, rely on Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and cavity ring-down spectroscopy instruments. We show that the tracer release method is suitable for quantifying facility- and some process-scale emissions, while the chamber measurements provide insight into individual process emissions. Uncertainties for the two methods are described and discussed. Applying the methods to CH4 emissions of the WWTP, we confirm that the open basins are not a major source of CH4 on the WWTP (about 10 % of the total emissions), but that the pretreatment and sludge treatment are the main emitters. Overall, the waste water treatment plant is representative of an average French WWTP.
Concentration maxima of volatile organic iodine compounds in the bottom layer water and the cold, dense water over the Chukchi Sea in the western Arctic Ocean: a possibility of production related to degradation of organic matter
Authors: Ooki A. , Kawasaki S. , Kuma K. , Nishino S. , Kikuchi T.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. We conducted a shipboard observation over the Chukchi Sea and the Canada Basin in the western Arctic Ocean in September and October 2012 to obtain vertical distributions of four volatile organic iodine compounds (VOIs) in seawater. VOIs are believed to play a role in ozone destruction in the troposphere and lower stratosphere. The VOIs observed in this study were iodomethane (CH3I), iodoethane (C2H5I), diiodomethane (CH2I2) and chloroiodomethane (CH2ClI). Maximum concentrations of the four VOIs were found in the bottom layer water over the Chukchi Sea shelf, in which layer the maximum concentration of ammonium (NH4+) also occurred. A significant correlation was observed between C2H5I and NH4+ (correlate coefficient R = 0.93) and between CH3I and NH4+ (R = 0.77), suggesting production of these VOIs increased with degradation of organic matter. Over the northern Chukchi Sea shelf–slope area, concentration maxima of CH2I2, CH2ClI, and CH3I were found in the subsurface cold, dense water (CDW). A large nitrogen deficit (N-deficit = NH4+ + NO3− + NO2− − 16PO43−) simultaneously occurred in this water, suggesting production of the three VOIs in the sediment or the bottom layer water over the shelf, probably in association with degradation of organic matter. We conclude that VOI production over the Chukchi Sea shelf can be largely attributed to the degradation of organic matter that is produced in the highly productive shelf water. High concentrations of CH2ClI were also found in the Alaskan Coastal Water (ACW) from the Bering Strait to the surface of the northern Chukchi slope. The VOIs that originated at the Chukchi Sea shelf are expected to be laterally transported to the Arctic Ocean Basin though the subsurface CDW and the surface ACW.
Coastal dynamics and submarine permafrost in shallow water of the central Laptev Sea, East Siberia
Authors: Overduin P. , Wetterich S. , Günther F. , Grigoriev M. N. , Grosse G. , Schirrmeister L. , Hubberten H.-W. , Makarov A.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. Coastal erosion and relative sea-level rise transform terrestrial landscapes into marine environments. In the Arctic, these processes inundate terrestrial permafrost with seawater and create submarine permafrost. Permafrost begins to warm under marine conditions, which can destabilize the sea floor and may release greenhouse gases. We report on the transition of terrestrial to submarine permafrost at a site where the timing of inundation can be inferred from the rate of coastline retreat. On Muostakh Island in the central Laptev Sea, East Siberia, changes in annual coastline position have been measured for decades and vary highly spatially. We hypothesize that these rates are inversely related to the inclination of the upper surface of submarine ice-bonded permafrost (IBP) based on the consequent duration of inundation with increasing distance from the shoreline. We compared rapidly eroding and stable coastal sections of Muostakh Island and find permafrost-table inclinations, determined using direct current resistivity, of 1 and 5 %, respectively. Determinations of submarine IBP depth from a drilling transect in the early 1980s were compared to resistivity profiles from 2011. Based on boreholes drilled in 1982–1983, the thickness of unfrozen sediment overlying the IBP increased from 0 up to 14 m below sea level with increasing distance from the shoreline. The geoelectrical profiles showed thickening of the unfrozen sediment overlying ice-bonded permafrost over the 28 years since drilling took place. Parts of our geoelectrical profiles trace permafrost flooded, and showed that IBP degradation rates decreased from over 0.6 m a−1 following inundation to around 0.1 m a−1 as the duration of inundation increased to 250 years. We discuss that long-term rates are expected to be less than these values, as the depth to the IBP increases and thermal and pore water solute concentration gradients over depth decrease. For this region, it can be summarized that recent increases in coastal erosion rate and longer-term changes to benthic temperature and salinity regimes are expected to affect the depth to submarine permafrost, leading to coastal regions with shallower IBP.
Glaciers change over the last century, Caucasus Mountains, Georgia, observed by the old topographical maps, Landsat and ASTER satellite imagery
Authors: Tielidze L. G.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. The study of glaciers in the Caucasus began in the first quarter of the 18th century. The first data on glaciers can be found in the works of great Georgian scientist Vakhushti Bagrationi. After almost hundred years the foreign scientists began to describe the glaciers of Georgia. Information about the glaciers of Georgia can be found in the works of W. Abich (1865), D. Freshfield (1869), G. Radde (1873), N. Dinik (1884), I. Rashevskiy (1904), A. Reinhardt (1916, 1917) etc. The first statistical information about the glaciers of Georgia are found in the catalog of the Caucasus glaciers compiled by K. Podozerskiy in 1911 (Podozerkiy, 1911). Then, in 1960s the large-scale (1:25 000, 1:50 000) topographic maps were published, which were compiled in 1955–1960 on the basis of the space images. On the basis of the mentioned maps R. Gobejishvili gave quite detailed statistical information about the glaciers of Georgia (Gobejishvili, 1989). Then in 1975 the glaciological catalog of the former USSR was published (The Catalog of Glaciers of the USSR, Vol. 8–9, 1975), where the statistical information about the glaciers of Georgia was obtained on the basis of the space images of 1970–1975. Thus, complete statistical information on the glaciers of Georgia has not been published for about last 40 years. Data obtained by us by processing of the space images of Landsat and ASTER is the latest material, which is the best tool for identification of the change in the number and area of the glaciers of Georgia during the last one century. The article presents the percentage and quantitative changes in the number and area of the glaciers of Georgia in the years of 1911–1960–1975–2014, according to the individual river basins. The air temperature course of the Georgia's high mountain weather stations has been studied. The river basins have been revealed, where there are the highest indices of the reduction in area and number of the glaciers and the reasons have been explained.
Navigating Special Education Law as a Rural School Administrator
Authors: Trujillo-Jenks Laura , Starrett Teresa
Published: July 2015

Working in a rural school district has some great advantages as well as disadvantages. One disadvantage is the lack of resources, such as an alternative discipline placement for students who violate the student code of conduct. This case study, or fictional scenario, focuses on one principal’s need to understand much more about alternative discipline placements for students who violate both the student code of conduct and the penal code. This is not based on real research, but is an application-based case study that can be used in a graduate course in educational leadership. All names used are fictional. Additionally, this case study or fictional scenario is presented as follows: Educational leadership issue, literature review to support the issue, and teaching notes and guiding questions to expound on the issue.
Exploring the Reflective Learning Experiences of Primary School Teachers during the use of Open Educational Resources
Authors: Essuman S. O.
Published: July 2015

This paper looks at the reflective learning experiences of primary school teachers, who were encouraged to engage in reflective activities as a way of improving their pedagogical practice during the use of Open Educational Resources (OER). The assumption of the study was that OERs have the potential to improve teachers’ pedagogical content knowledge and skills, as well as their networking and collaborative activities and impact on their professional practice. Ten (10) out of forty-two (42) primary school teachers, who participated in a training workshop focused on the use of OER, were purposively sampled to keep a reflective journal of their learning experiences and share the outcomes with their colleagues. Interviews were used in collecting data from the cohort. Using phenomenology as a methodology and content analysis as a tool for analyzing the data collected, the ‘stories’ of these teachers were analyzed manually and presented in a report at a seminar. The findings indicated that teachers acknowledged the added values that OER have had on their pedagogical practice; the influence that the new knowledge and skills have had on students' learning and the enthusiasm that students exhibited when active learning strategies were used in teaching. However, the reflective learning elements that teachers were expected to exhibit in their writing were lacking. The deep thinking and learning from their critical analysis of their experiences were not evident in their responses. It is recommended that sessions on reflective teaching, learning and writing should be incorporated into pre- and in-service teachers' training sessions. Skill building in reflective writing and learning should be introduced to teachers early in practice and during training for them to build the culture of reflection in teaching.
Political Socialization in the Contemporary Greek Kindergarten Views of Kindergarten Teachers and the Readiness of Preschoolers
Authors: Nalbantoglou Sofia , Argyris Kyridis Argyris , Tsioumis Konstantinos
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this research is to study preschool children’s readiness to political socialization and to investigate kindergarten teachers’ views regarding citizenship education. It is appreciated that teachers’ views constitute strong evidence of plans, instructive choices and teaching practices, determining sometimes even their instructive effectiveness, i.e. the degree they consider themselves to be able to influence students’ performance. Children’s readiness is considered to be related to their ability for direct reaction in their political socialization. Two questionnaires were used as a data collection method. The readiness in early childhood for political socialization is investigated through fourteen proposals which are analyzed into the frequencies of “always”, “sometimes” and “never”. The views of kindergarten teachers in connection to citizenship education are investigated through five open questions. The collected data were coded, entered in SPSS and analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The findings confirmed mostly the inquiring affairs and gave interesting information in the frame of inquiring questions as well.
Feasibility and safety of radical cystectomy under combined spinal and epidural anesthesia in octogenarian patients with ASA score ≥3: A case series
Authors: Tzortzis Vassilios , Dimitropoulos Konstantinos , Karatzas Anastasios , Zachos Ioannis , Stamoulis Konstantinos , Melekos Michael , Gravas Stavros
Published: July 2015

Introduction: This study evaluated the feasibility and safety of open radical cystectomy (RC) under combined regional anesthesia (CRA) in high-risk octogenarian patients.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the medical records of high-risk, octogenarian bladder cancer patients submitted to open RC with CRA. Demographic and clinical data, intraoperative parameters and perioperative and postoperative complications were recorded using the Clavien-Dindo classification.Results: In total, 14 male and 4 female patients, with a median age of 82.5 years were enrolled. Ureterocutaneostomy was performed in 15 patients and Bricker ileal conduit in the remaining 3. Operative time ranged from 97 to 184 minutes. Five patients were transfused and no major intraoperative complications occurred. Postoperative complications 30 days later included ileus (Grade II) in 3 patients, surgical trauma infection in 1 patient (Grade II), respiratory infection in 2 patients (Grade III), and hydronephrosis with concurrent urinary tract infection in 3 patients (Grade III). No deaths occurred.Conclusions: Our study showed that octogenarian, high-risk bladder cancer patients with indications for RC can safely undergo the surgical procedure under CRA, without apparent increase in major complications.
Incidental retroperitoneal paraganglioma in patient candidate to radical prostatectomy: Concurrent surgical treatments by robotic approach
Authors: Ferrari Matteo , Sangalli Mattia , Zanoni Matteo , Ghezzi Massimo , Fabbri Fabio , Sozzi Francesco , Rigatti Patrizio , Cestari Andrea
Published: July 2015

We report a case of a 75-year-old male with biopsy-proven prostate cancer and candidate for radical prostatectomy. The patient’s medical history includes hypertension and atrial fibrillation in prophylactic treatment; however, he was suffering from recurrent paroxysmal episodes of supraventricular tachycardia. Abdominal magnetic resonance performed for prostate cancer staging detected a non-lymphatic inter-cavo-aortic mass of 42 × 37 × 43 cm. Results of biochemical screening confirmed the clinical diagnosis of symptomatic paraganglioma. The patient was subjected in a single robotic session for concurrent excision of the inter-aortocaval mass and radical prostatectomy with bilateral pelvic lymphnode dissection. During the procedure, there were no anesthesiological or surgical complications. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 5. Six months after surgery, his prostate-specific antigen level was undetectable and the abdominal magnetic resonance imaging was negative for local recurrence or metastasis of paraganglioma. No more episodes of tachycardia were reported or antihypertensive therapy was necessary.
Endourological treatment of bilateral ureteral stones in bilateral ureteral duplication with right ureterocele
Authors: Sen Volkan , Aydogdu Ozgu , Yonguc Tarik , Bozkurt Ibrahim Halil , Polat Salih , Basmaci Ismail
Published: July 2015

Bilateral collecting system duplication is a very rare abnormality, including the splitting of the ureteric bud. Complete ureteral duplication with two separate openings in the urinary bladder is also extremely rare. To the best of our knowledge, we present the first case of bilateral ureteral stones in bilateral duplicated collecting system.
Emphysematous pyelonephritis: Our experience in managing these cases
Authors: Uruc Fatih , Yuksel Ozgur Haki , Sahin Aytac , Urkmez Ahmet , Yildirim Caglar , Verit Ayhan
Published: July 2015

Introduction: Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a rare acute necrotising infection of renal parenchyma. We discuss clinical details and treatment strategies of 8 patients with EPN followed at our clinic.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical, laboratory, radiological findings and treatment modalities of 8 patients with EPN followed at our urology clinic between 2012 and 2015.Results: The mean patient age (female: 5; male: 3) was 62 (range: 51–82) years. Based on computed tomographic findings, EPN was classified as class 1 (n = 3), class 2 (n = 3) and class 3a (n = 2). All patients had fever, flank pain, nausea, and vomiting. Five patients had type 2 diabetes mellitus and 3 diabetic patients also had renal stones. Escherichia coli (n = 6), Klebsiella species (n = 1), and Proteus species (n = 1) were grown in urine cultures. All patients had unilateral involvement. Increased white blood cell counts, sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein levels were detected in all cases. In addition to medical treatment, 2 patients underwent a nephrostomy catheter placement and another 2 patients underwent nephrectomy upon deterioration of her general health state. After achieving clinical stabilization with medical treatment, 1 patient underwent endoscopic ureteral stone treatment. The remaining 3 cases were treated only with antibiotherapy. All patients were discharged with clinical cure.Conclusion: Mortality rates of EPN are gradually decreasing. Preservation of renal reserve is possible due to early diagnosis, appropriate antibiotherapy, and drainage.
Assessing cardiac preload by the Initial Systolic Time Interval obtained from impedance cardiography
Authors: Meijer Jan H. , Smorenberg Annemieke , Lust Erik J. , Verdaasdonk Rudolf M. , Johan Groeneveld A. B.
Published: July 2015

The Initial Systolic Time Interval (ISTI), obtained from the electrocardiogram (ECG) and impedance cardiogram (ICG), is considered to be a measure for the time delay between the electrical and mechanical activity of the heart and reflects an early active period of the cardiac cycle. The clinical relevance of this time interval is subject of study. This paper introduces a method using ISTI to evaluate and predict the circulatory response to fluid administration in patients after coronary artery bypass graft surgery and presents preliminary results of a pilot study by comparing ISTI with cardiac output (CO) responsiveness. Also the use of the pulse transit time (PTT), earlier recommended for this purpose, was investigated. The results showed an inverse relationship between ISTI and CO at all moments of fluid administration and also an inverse relationship between the changes ΔISTI and ΔCO before and after full fluid administration. No relationships between PTT and CO or ΔPTT and ΔCO were found. It is concluded that ISTI is dependent upon preload, and that ISTI has the potential to be used as a clinical parameter assessing preload.
Positive phase error from parallel conductance in tetrapolar bio-impedance measurements and its compensation
Authors: Callaghan Martina F. , Lund Torben , Roitt Ivan M. , Bayford Richard H.
Published: July 2015

Bioimpedance measurements are of great use and can provide considerable insight into biological processes. However, there are a number of possible sources of measurement error that must be considered. The most dominant source of error is found in bipolar measurements where electrode polarisation effects are superimposed on the true impedance of the sample. Even with the tetrapolar approach that is commonly used to circumvent this issue, other errors can persist. Here we characterise the positive phase and rise in impedance magnitude with frequency that can result from the presence of any parallel conductive pathways in the measurement set-up. It is shown that fitting experimental data to an equivalent electrical circuit model allows for more accurate determination of the true sample impedance as validated through finite element modelling (FEM) of the measurement chamber. Finally, the equivalent circuit model is used to extract dispersion information from cell cultures to characterise their growth.
Seven Principles for a Sustainable Water Future
Authors:   FROM THE NATURE CONSERVANCY, Richter Brian
Published: July 2015

With water shortages grabbing media headlines across the western United States, Asia, and the Middle East, we're hearing increasing calls for more sustainable approaches to water use. Yet most of us struggle to define sustainability or translate it into an action plan. Peter Gleick (2000), a widely respected water policy analyst with the Pacific Institute in Oakland, Calif., has offered a definition of sustainable water use that offers a great starting point: “The use of water that supports the ability of human society to endure and flourish into the indefinite future without undermining the integrity of the hydrological cycle or the ecological systems that depend on it.” This article contains seven principles for a sustainable water future.
Our Fat Future: Translating Adipose Stem Cell Therapy
Authors: Nordberg Rachel C. , Loboa Elizabeth G.
Published: July 2015

Human adipose stem cells (hASCs) have the potential to treat patients with a variety of clinical conditions. Recent advancements in translational research, regulatory policy, and industry have positioned hASCs on the threshold of clinical translation. We discuss the progress and challenges of bringing adipose stem cell therapy into mainstream clinical use.

Significance

This article details the advances made in recent years that have helped move human adipose stem cell therapy toward mainstream clinical use from a translational research, regulatory policy, and industrial standpoint. Four recurrent themes in translational technology as they pertain to human adipose stem cells are discussed: automated closed-system operations, biosensors and real-time monitoring, biomimetics, and rapid manufacturing. In light of recent FDA guidance documents, regulatory concerns about adipose stem cell therapy are discussed. Finally, an update is provided on the current state of clinical trials and the emerging industry that uses human adipose stem cells. This article is expected to stimulate future studies in translational adipose stem cell research.
Autoayuda digital: de ‘dummies’ a expertos
Authors: Ferré Pavia Carme
Published: July 2015

Reseña deHerramientas digitales para periodistasAutora: Ana I. Bernal Triviño
Carbon Materials With Conductivity Gradients Allow Dynamic Screening of Steep Temperature Differences Along Thin Films
Authors: Berger Alexander , Schöttle Marius , Lebeda Flora , Schmalz Holger , Bösecke Peter , Rosenfeldt Sabine , Greiner Andreas , Retsch Markus
Published: August 2024

Carbon materials comprise a wide range of microstructures and excellent electrical and thermal properties while being cost‐effective and readily available. They can be obtained through carbothermal processes at high temperatures, starting from cellulose. Catalytically active compounds, for example, iron salts, strongly influence the carbon microstructure during the graphitization process. Different degrees of structural order can, therefore, be achieved by adjusting the concentration of the iron salts. An infusion withdrawal impregnation approach is used on filter paper to prepare a continuous gradient of the carbon microstructure. This structural change is accompanied by a continuous variation of the closely related electrical and thermal transport properties. Even more, the synergistic interplay of local sheet resistance and thermal diffusivity results in the formation of switchable temperature gradients when an external current is applied. Steady state temperature differences of up to 80 °C are observed along the centimeter‐scaled samples. The controllable temperature gradient formation will be of great interest for applications requiring a fast temperature screening. Furthermore, the temperature gradient can be imposed onto other materials, which will be particularly relevant for advanced thin film characterization applications.
Ionic Selective Separator Design Enables Long‐Life Zinc–Iodine Batteries via Synergistic Anode Stabilization and Polyiodide Shuttle Suppression
Authors: Yang Peng , Zhang Kai , Liu Shizhuo , Zhuang Wubin , Shao Zhipeng , Zhu Kaiping , Lin Lin , Guo Gengde , Wang Wenhui , Zhang Qichong , Yao Yagang
Published: August 2024

Aqueous zinc–iodine batteries show immense potential in the electrochemical energy storage field due to their intrinsic safety and cost‐effectiveness. However, the rampant dendritic growth and continuous side reactions on the zinc anode, coupled with the shuttling phenomenon of polyiodides, severely affect their cyclic life. In response, this study utilizes a carboxyl‐functionalized metal‐organic framework UiO‐66‐(COOH)2 (UC) to modify commercial glass fiber (GF) to develop a novel ionic selective separator (UC/GF). This separator exhibits cation exchange ability for Zn2+ and polyiodides, thereby simultaneously stabilizing the zinc anode and inhibiting the shuttle effect of polyiodides. Enhanced by the abundant polar carboxyl groups, the UC/GF separator can effectively facilitate Zn2+ ion transport and accelerate the desolvation of hydrated zinc ions by its zincophilicity and hydrophilicity, while significantly hindering the transfer of polyiodides via electrostatic repulsion. Consequently, the Zn|UC/GF|Zn symmetric battery enables a long lifespan of over 3400 h at a current density of 5.0 mA cm−2, while the Zn|UC/GF|I2 exhibits an exceptional discharge capacity of 103.8 mAh g−1 after 35 000 cycles at 10 C with a capacity decay rate of only 0.0013% per cycle. This separator modification strategy that synergistically optimizes anode and cathode performance provides unique insights into the commercialization of zinc–iodine batteries.
Decoding the Broadband Emission of 2D Pb‐Sn Halide Perovskites through High‐Throughput Exploration
Authors: Foadian Elham , Yang Jonghee , Harris Sumner B. , Tang Yipeng , Rouleau Christopher M. , Joy Syed , Graham Kenneth R. , Lawrie Benjamin J. , Hu Bin , Ahmadi Mahshid
Published: August 2024

Unlike single‐component 2D metal halide perovskites (MHPs) exhibiting sharp excitonic photoluminescence (PL), a broadband PL emerges in mixed Pb‐Sn 2D lattices. Two physical models –self‐trapped exciton and defect‐induced Stokes‐shift – are proposed to explain this unconventional phenomenon. However, the explanations provide limited rationalizations without consideration of the formidable compositional space, and thus, the fundamental origin of broadband PL remains elusive. Herein, the high‐throughput automated experimental workflow is established to systematically explore the broadband PL in mixed Pb‐Sn 2D MHPs, employing PEA (Phenethylammonium) as a model cation known to work as a rigid organic spacer. Spectrally, the broadband PL becomes further broadened with rapid PEA2PbI4 phase segregation with increasing Pb concentrations during early‐stage crystallization. Counterintuitively, MHPs with high Pb concentrations exhibit prolonged PL lifetimes. Hyperspectral microscopy identifies substantial PEA2PbI4 phase segregation in those films, hypothesizing that the establishment of charge transfer excitons by the phase segregation upon crystallization at high‐Pb compositions results in distinctive PL properties. These results indicate that two independent mechanisms—defect‐induced Stoke‐shifts and the establishment of charge transfer excitons by phase segregation—coexist which significantly correlates with the Pb:Sn ratio, thereby simultaneously contributing to the broadband PL emission in 2D mixed Pb‐Sn HPs.
Dielectric Elastomer Actuators with Low Driving Voltages and High Mechanical Outputs Enabled by a Scalable Ultra‐Thin Film Multilayering Process
Authors: Peng Junbo , Zhuo Jiangshan , Dong Huifeng , Wang Lvting , Jiang Shengchao , Li Tiefeng , Shi Ye
Published: August 2024

Dielectric elastomers (DEs) are widely studied and applied as an artificial muscle owing to their combined features of large actuation strain, fast response, high energy density, and low noise. However, scalable fabrication of dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) with low driving voltages (100 s of volts) and high mechanical outputs remains challenging, which significantly limits their wider applications. In this work, processable, high‐performance dielectric elastomer (PHDE) ultra‐thin film based multilayer DEAs (PUT‐MDEAs) through an optimized dry‐stacking process are fabricated. The obtained ten‐layer PUT‐MDEAs show actuation at 200 V and reach a maximum areal strain of ≈80% at 800 V. They deliver a blocked force of 0.1 N and an energy density of 22 J kg−1 at 200 V and achieve a blocked force of 0.7 N and an energy density of 50 J kg−1 at 700 V. In addition, large‐area PUT‐MDEAs are fabricated using the scalable dry‐stacking method, and  adopted to build low‐driving‐voltage soft pumps and robotic fish, showing their potential for practical applications.
Promoting the Volmer Step of Alkaline Hydrogen Oxidation Reaction by Incorporating Zn Single Atoms into Ru Lattice and Carbon Frameworks
Authors: Guo Yingying , He Weidong , Tan Xiaohong , Xiao Yuhang , Du BinJie , Wang Chenhui , Cui Hao , Li Yan , Wang Chengxin
Published: August 2024

The Volmer step is considered to play a critical role in the alkaline hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) process. However, current research mainly focuses on optimizing the adsorption strength of Hads and OHads, while the importance of maximizing the adsorption interfaces with different adsorbates is rarely addressed. Herein, a multi‐strategy approach is explored by simultaneously incorporating Zn single atoms into Ru lattice and carbon support (denoted as (Zn1Ru)SAA/Zn1‐N‐C) to construct a high activity and stable alkaline HOR catalyst. This novel catalyst achieves an impressive mass activity of up to 4.98 mA µgRu−1 at 50 mV, which surpasses that of Ru/N‐C by 1.9 times and even surpasses that of Pt/C by 7.5 times. In addition, the novel catalyst has superior long‐term stability and CO resistance. Experimental results and theoretical calculations reveal that the unique structure of Zn1Ru)SAA/Zn1‐N‐C not only enhances the catalyst (Ru nanoparticles)‐support interaction, it facilitates the electron transfer between catalyst and support, and further optimizes the adsorption behavior of various intermediates, but also forms distinct micro‐regions of adsorbed H (*H) and adsorbed OH (*OH) on the Ru nanoparticle surface, thereby promoting the Volmer process. The research provides a new understanding of the complex design of advanced alkaline HOR catalysts.
Realization of a 2D Lieb Lattice in a Metal–Inorganic Framework with Partial Flat Bands and Topological Edge States
Authors: Wu Wenjun , Sun Shuo , Tang Chi Sin , Wu Jing , Ma Yu , Zhang Lingfeng , Cai Chuanbing , Zhong Jianxin , Milošević Milorad V. , Wee Andrew T. S. , Yin Xinmao
Published: August 2024

Flat bands and Dirac cones in materials are the source of the exotic electronic and topological properties. The Lieb lattice is expected to host these electronic structures, arising from quantum destructive interference. Nevertheless, the experimental realization of a 2D Lieb lattice remained challenging to date due to its intrinsic structural instability. After computationally designing a Platinum‐Phosphorus (Pt‐P) Lieb lattice, it has successfully overcome its structural instability and synthesized on a gold substrate via molecular beam epitaxy. Low‐temperature scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy verify the Lieb lattice's morphology and electronic flat bands. Furthermore, topological Dirac edge states stemming from pronounced spin‐orbit coupling induced by heavy Pt atoms are predicted. These findings convincingly open perspectives for creating metal–inorganic framework‐based atomic lattices, offering prospects for strongly correlated phases interplayed with topology.
Tuning the Spin Transition and Carrier Type in Rare‐Earth Cobaltates via Compositional Complexity
Authors: Zhang Alan , Oh Sangheon , Choi Byoung Ki , Rotenberg Eli , Brown Timothy D. , Spataru Catalin D. , Kinigstein Eli , Guo Jinghua , Sugar Joshua D. , Salagre Elena , Mascaraque Arantzazu , Michel Enrique G. , Shad Alison C. , Zhu Jacklyn , Witman Matthew D. , Kumar Suhas , Talin A. Alec , Fuller Elliot J.
Published: August 2024

There is growing interest in material candidates with properties that can be engineered beyond traditional design limits. Compositionally complex oxides (CCO), often called high entropy oxides, are excellent candidates, wherein a lattice site shares more than four cations, forming single‐phase solid solutions with unique properties. However, the nature of compositional complexity in dictating properties remains unclear, with characteristics that are difficult to calculate from first principles. Here, compositional complexity is demonstrated as a tunable parameter in a spin‐transition oxide semiconductor La1− x(Nd, Sm, Gd, Y)x/4CoO3, by varying the population x of rare earth cations over 0.00≤ x≤ 0.80. Across the series, increasing complexity is revealed to systematically improve crystallinity, increase the amount of electron versus hole carriers, and tune the spin transition temperature and on‐off ratio. At high a population (x = 0.8), Seebeck measurements indicate a crossover from hole‐majority to electron‐majority conduction without the introduction of conventional electron donors, and tunable complexity is proposed as new method to dope semiconductors. First principles calculations combined with angle resolved photoemission reveal an unconventional doping mechanism of lattice distortions leading to asymmetric hole localization over electrons. Thus, tunable complexity is demonstrated as a facile knob to improve crystallinity, tune electronic transitions, and to dope semiconductors beyond traditional means.
From Challenges to Solution: The Evolving Landscape of Leprosy Management
Authors: Moreira Lívia Maria Coelho de Carvalho , Oliveira Antônia Carla de Jesus , Chaves Luíse Lopes , Soares Mônica Felts de La Rocca , Soares‐Sobrinho José Lamartine
Published: August 2024

Leprosy, caused by Mycobacterium leprae, despite being a curable disease when treated can induce peripheral neuropathy. However, the medicines used in polychemotherapy promote several side effects. Thus, research for the development of new administration systems is an alternative, but there is a lack of preclinical and clinical studies of the systems, where 90.90% have a level of technological maturity 3 and 9.09% level 4. The main issues are associated with deficiencies in vitro and in vivo cultivation methodologies, lack of financing, as well as the disinterest of the pharmaceutical industry in investing in neglected tropical diseases. In addition, with the emergence of resistant bacteria, there is urgency in the search for vaccines and, therefore, in the expansion of immunomodulation studies to define the molecular targets of the vaccine and future medications. In addition, future treatments for various diseases, including leprosy, will be directly influenced by the evolution of additive manufacturing and 3D printing, seeking personalized, flexible, and reproducible treatment.
Tuning Surface Reconfiguration for Durable Cathode/Electrolyte Interphase of LiCoO2 at 45 °C
Authors: Li Zijian , Zhao Wenguang , Ren Hengyu , Yi Haocong , Du Yuhao , Yu Haitao , Fang Jianjun , Song Yongli , Chen Hui , Zhou Lin , Li Shunning , Zhao Qinghe , Pan Feng
Published: August 2024

Recently, strategies of optimizing cathode/electrolyte interphase (CEI) have been applied to enhance the durability of LiCoO2 (LCO) at high voltages (≥4.55 V vs Li/Li+) and high temperatures (≥45 °C), but the underlying mechanism is still in debate. Herein, a durable CEI on LCO that operates at 45 °C is achieved via tuning the chemical and morphological properties at the surface. Specifically, an artificial CEI layer composing of island‐shaped AlPO4/Li3PO4 deposits is constructed on LCO surface, i.e., AP‐LCO. Upon cycle, a progressive chemical evolution from AlPO4 to Li3AlF6/Li3PO4 takes place, and a robust CEI enriching with ion‐conductive Li3AlF6 species is formed, leading to a uniform and compact CEI to provide a comprehensive coverage on LCO surface. Therefore, the AP‐LCO displays outstanding improvements in the resistance to HF corrosion, the suppression of surface degradation, and the kinetics of Li+ transport, along with an unprecedentedly high thermal stability. Benefited from the above advantages, the Li||AP‐LCO cell shows high capacity retention of 84.0% in 500 cycles at 45 °C and 4.6 V. This work provides a new insight into the role of robust CEI for high‐temperature durability of LCO cathodes.