bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of mesoporous carbon modification by nitrogen on its enrichment efficiency of chromate ion: Comparison between N-doped mesoporous carbon and amino grafted mesoporous carbon
Authors: Moradi S.E. , Baniamerian M.J.
Published: August 2011

In the present work, well ordered, N-doped mesoporous carbon (MCN) sorbent
with uniform mesoporous wall, high surface area and pore volume has been
fabricated using the simple polymerization reaction between ethylene diamine
and carbon tetrachloride in mesoporous silica media. The structural order and
textural properties of nanostructured materials were studied by XRD,
elemental analysis, and nitrogen Adsorption-desorption experiment. Adsorption
of Chromate over various porous adsorbents such as mesoporous carbon (MC),
N-doped mesoporous carbon (MCN), and amino modified mesoporous carbon (AMC)
was studied from solutions with different concentration, temperature and pH
in polar (water) solvent. The adsorption isotherms of Chromate were in
agreement with Langmuir model, moreover, the uptake capacity of Chromate over
MCN was much higher than amino modified mesoporous carbon (AMC) and pristine
mesoporous carbon adsorbent.
Perilobar Nephrogenic Rests and Chromosome 22
Authors: MdZIN Reena , Phillips Marianne , Edwards Caitlin , Murch Ashleigh , Charles Adrian
Published: August 2011

Perilobar nephrogenic rests (NR) are precursor lesions that may display genetic changes similar to their associated Wilms tumor (WT). Two patients presented with WT, both with perilobar NR and 1 with bilateral, multifocal metachronous WT. Both patients' WT displayed monosomy 22 as the predominant cytogenetic change, and the constitutional cytogenetic analysis was normal. The purpose of our study was to identify at what stage in the morphologic progression from NR to WT the monosomy 22 occurred by using a fluorescent in situ hybridization probe for chromosome 22 in the subtypes of perilobar NR and WT present in both cases. Section and core fluorescent in situ hybridization with a chromosome 22 probe was performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues containing WT and perilobar NR. We also performed fluorescent-based microsatellite analysis on some of the WT in the bilateral case to determine whether there was a preferential loss of the same allele of chromosome 22. Sclerotic and dormant perilobar NR showed a rate of monosomy 22 of only approximately 30%, but this increased to approximately 50% in hyperplastic and adenomatous NR. Monosomy 22 was present in 60%-80% of nuclei in WT. Microsatellite analysis showed loss of homozygosity, with preferential loss of the same allele of chromosome 22 in the tumors examined. There are differences in the rate of detection of monosomy 22 in perilobar NR and WT, suggesting loss of chromosome 22 in the progression of perilobar NR to WT in a subset of tumors.
Utility of Diagnosing Various Histological Patterns of Diffuse Chronic Hypoxic Placental Injury
Authors: Stanek Jerzy
Published: August 2011

To examine the clinicopathologic correlations of three histological patterns of diffuse chronic hypoxic placental injury (preuterine [PR], uterine [UH], and postuterine [PU]), a retrospective statistical analysis of a large 14-year placental database was performed. Of 5097 placentas between 20 and 43 weeks of gestation examined consecutively, 4413 did not feature histological chronic placental hypoxia, while 684 did. In the latter, maternal hypertensive disorders, diabetes mellitus, abnormal cardiotocography and Dopplers, cesarean sections, inductions of labor, and fetal growth restriction, as well as other placental hypoxic lesions and decidual arteriolopathy, were statistically significantly more common than in the remaining placental material. Two hundred eighty-nine PR cases featured the most advanced gestational age and meconium staining; 237 UH cases featured severe preeclampsia, decidual arteriolopathy, villous infarction, membrane laminar necrosis, microscopic chorionic pseudocysts, excessive extravillous trophoblasts, and maternal floor multinucleate trophoblastic giant cells; and 158 PU cases featured the lowest placental weight and the highest prevalence of abnormal Dopplers, umbilical cord compromise, fetal growth restriction, cesarean section rate, and complicated 3rd stage of labor. The specificity of chronic hypoxic patterns of placental injury was much higher than the sensitivity, with the highest specificity for an excessive amount of extravillous trophoblasts. Diagnosing various hypoxic patterns of placental injury by histology may help to clarify the etiopathogenesis of a significant proportion of complications of pregnancy and abnormal fetal or neonatal outcomes. The patterns should help to retrospectively diagnose placental hypoxia, even in clinically unsuspected cases.
Cognition-Focused Interventions for Older Adults: the State of Play
Authors: Vidovich Mandy , Almeida Osvaldo P.
Published: August 2011

Objective: The aim of this study was to review and discuss the evidence supporting the use of cognition-focused interventions to enhance mental function and decrease the risk of dementia.

Method: A non-quantitative review was made of existing evidence supporting the use of cognitive stimulation, rehabilitation and training in enhancing mental function and decreasing the risk of dementia in later life.

Results: Despite growing popularity, there is limited evidence from randomized trials to support the use of cognition-focused interventions to decrease the rate of cognitive decline associated with increasing age or with dementia. There is currently no evidence available from randomized trials to support the use of cognition-focused interventions to prevent dementia.

Conclusions: Sufficiently powered randomized trials of cognition-focused interventions designed to prevent dementia and limit the progression of cognitive decline in later life are needed before these programs are adopted in normal routine clinical practice.
A Psychodynamic Formulation Masterclass With Nancy Mcwilliams
Authors: Le Feuvre Charles , Halasz George
Published: August 2011

Objective: The aim of this paper was to assess the value of a psychodynamic formulation masterclass.

Method: Formal feedback from the presenters at a masterclass at the 2010 RANZCP Congress was obtained and arranged under different themes.

Results: The importance of counter-transference, reevaluating the case and supervision, witnessing the skill of an expert, the sense of containment and validation, and the importance of formulation were significant themes that emerged.

Conclusions: The results provided evidence both for the importance of psychodynamic formulation and for the use of a psychodynamic formulation masterclass.
Diagnosis of Bacterial Vaginosis by Acridine Orange Staining and its Comparison to Conventional Methods and Association of Gardnerella vaginalis with Bacterial Vaginosis.
Authors: Begum Naznin , Muazzam Naima , Shamsuzzaman SM , Chowdhury Akhtaruzzaman , Rashid Aliya , Islam Dinul
Published: August 2011

The present study was undertaken to establish the efficacy of acridine orange staining for diagnosis of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) and association of Gardnerella Vaginalis with BV. Two hundred sexually active females in the age group of 15-45 years, with vaginal discharge and itching, were selected for the study. A detailed history and a thorough clinical examination of all the cases were done. After making the clinical diagnosis of BV by Amsels criteria, diagnosis also carried out with Acridine orange staining, Gram stain, Nugent criteria and isolation of Gard. vaginalis from vaginal fluid. Out of 200 women, 48 (24%) cases were diagnosed as having bacterial vaginosis by applying Amsel’s clinical criteria. The rate of detection of bacterial vaginosis was 23% by Gram stain Nugent criteria and 24.5% by acridine orange staining. Out of the total 48 BV cases, the rate of detection of BV was 100% by Acridine orange staining and 93.87% by Gram-stain Nugent criteria. By Acridine orange staining Lactobacillus and pus cell were also detected which provided an important information about vaginal ecosystem. Acridine orange staining was the most sensitive (100%) method considering Amsel’s criteria as gold standard. The sensitivity of Gram stain Nugent criteria was 93.75% in this study. The specificity of Acridine orange staining was 99.55% and the specificity of Gram stain Nugent criteria was 99.10%. The positive predicative values of acridine orange staining and Gram staining Nugent criteria were 97.96% and 95.74% and the negative predictive values of these tests were 100% and 98.65% respectively. The results of Acridine orange staining test correlated well with that of Amsel’s clinical criteria among the study cases and healthy controls. Key words: Bacterial Vaginosis, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Amsel’s criteria, Acridine orange, Nugent criteria, Gardnerella vaginalis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v4i1.8468 BJMM 2011; 4(1): 37-42
A Gastroenteritis Outbreak Caused by Noroviruses in Greece
Authors: Vantarakis Apostolos , Μellou Kassiani , Spala Georgia , Kokkinos Petros , Alamanos Yiannis
Published: August 2011

In June 2006, an outbreak alert regarding cases of acute gastroenteritis in a region in North Eastern Greece (population 100,882 inhabitants), triggered investigations to guide control measures. The outbreak started the first days of June, and peaked in July. A descriptive epidemiological study, a virological characterization of the viral agent identified from cases as well as a phylogenetic analysis was performed. From June 5 to September 3, 2006 (weeks 23–44), 1,640 cases of gastroenteritis (45.2% male and 54.8% female, aged 3 months to 89 years) were reported. The overall attack rate for the period was 16.3 cases/1,000 inhabitants. About 57% of cases observed were under the age of 15 years. Αnalysis of faecal samples identified Norovirus GII strains. Fifteen different Norovirus GII strains were recorded, presenting a homology of 94.8% (86–97%) to GII strains obtained from GenBank. The long duration of the outbreak suggests an important role of person-to-person transmission, while the emergence of the outbreak was possibly due to contaminated potable water, although no viruses were detected in any tested water samples. This outbreak underscores the need for a national surveillance system for acute non-bacterial gastroenteritis outbreaks.
Structure and Dynamics of Reentrant Nematics: Any Open Questions after Almost 40 Years?
Authors: Mazza Marco G. , Schoen Martin
Published: August 2011

Liquid crystals have attracted enormous interest because of the variety of their phases and richness of their application. The interplay of general physical symmetries and specific molecular features generates a myriad of different phenomena. A surprising behavior of liquid crystals is the reentrancy of phases as temperature, pressure, or concentration are varied. Here, we review the main experimental facts and the different theoretical scenarios that have guided the understanding of bulk reentrant nematics. Recently, some computer simulations of a system confined to nanoscopic scales have found new dynamical features of the reentrant nematic phase. We discuss this prediction in relation with the available experimental evidence on reentrant nematics and with the dynamics of liquids in strongly confined environments.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Myristicin on RAW 264.7 Macrophages Stimulated with Polyinosinic-Polycytidylic Acid
Authors: Lee Ji Young , Park Wansu
Published: August 2011

Myristicin (1-allyl-5-methoxy-3,4-methylenedioxybenzene) is an active aromatic compound found in nutmeg (the seed of Myristica fragrans), carrot, basil, cinnamon, and parsley. Myristicin has been known to have anti-cholinergic, antibacterial, and hepatoprotective effects, however, the effects of myristicin on virus-stimulated macrophages are not fully reported. In this study, the anti-inflammatory effect of myristicin on double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-stimulated macrophages was examined. Myristicin did not reduce the cell viability of RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages at concentrations of up to 50 µM. Myristicin significantly inhibited the production of calcium, nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, interferon inducible protein-10, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, MCP-3, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1α, MIP-1β, and leukemia inhibitory factor in dsRNA [polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid]-induced RAW 264.7 cells (P < 0.05). In conclusion, myristicin has anti-inflammatory properties related with its inhibition of NO, cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors in dsRNA-stimulated macrophages via the calcium pathway.
La société civile à l'Organisation mondiale du commerce : vers une gouvernance plus équitable ?
Authors: Canet Raphaël , Audet René
Published: August 2011

Résumé La société civile occupe une place grandissante sur la scène internationale. En intégrant des organisations internationales fondamentales dans la régulation néolibérale des sociétés contemporaines comme l’Organisation mondiale du commerce (OMC), la société civile réformiste entend infléchir le cours de la mondialisation néolibérale dans une perspective plus équitable, notamment à l’égard des revendications des pays du Sud et des secteurs défavorisés des sociétés concernées. Notre propos vise à comprendre dans quelle mesure le cadre d’action résultant de l’ouverture des structures institutionnelles et du mode de fonctionnement de l’OMC, notamment lors des Conférences ministérielles, permet de tenir compte des propositions de ce nouvel acteur dans l’élaboration des politiques commerciales. En somme, la gouvernance mondiale constitue-t-elle une réelle opportunité de changement des pratiques et de la culture politiques, ou se réduit-elle à une simple idéologie de légitimation d’un système mondial voué à la préservation des intérêts du secteur privé des pays du Nord ?
De la mobilisation du droit à la réalisation du droit
Authors: Roca i Escoda Marta
Published: August 2011

Résumé À l’encontre d’une croyance légaliste qui tient l’adoption de la loi pour une garantie suffisante de son effectivité, nous visons dans cet article à montrer que la réalité du droit, ou le « droit en action », doit prendre en compte la gamme de médiations, de dispositifs et de dispositions qui permettent d’assurer la réalisation du droit, en deçà et au-delà de la seule activité du juge ou du législateur. Pour ce faire, nous présentons une recherche qui porte sur les mobilisations déployées par une association catalane de familles lesbiennes et gays (FLG), autour de l’ouverture du mariage aux personnes homosexuelles en Espagne et de l’institutionnalisation des couples homosexuels dans le contexte catalan, en prêtant attention aux actions qui vont convoquer plusieurs situations d’appel au droit, allant de sa mobilisation à l’attention portée à sa réalisation.
De la ressource intellectuelle à la cause politique
Authors: Collet Victor
Published: August 2011

Résumé À partir d’archives locales et associatives de Nanterre, de l’observation des Oranges, association militant pour la mémoire de l’immigration, d’entretiens biographiques avec ses membres et de nombreux représentants de l’espace associatif et politique nanterrien, on se propose d’analyser les usages localisés d’Abdelmalek Sayad comme un révélateur des cadres d’intégration d’une mémoire immigrée et comme une étape singulière dans la reconnaissance par la municipalité de ses populations immigrées. La référence à Sayad, schème structurant les activités des Oranges et pas à pas les discours municipaux sur l’identité locale, se situe à l’intersection d’une pluralité de processus : côté municipal, ouverture d’un espace de légitimation des entreprises pro-immigrées par une municipalité en plein bouleversement et à la recherche de cadres adaptés pour investir la mémoire de l’immigration sans effacer la dimension ouvrière de la commune ; côté associatif, une propension particulière chez certains militants à l’autodidaxie culturelle, une confrontation avec le monde universitaire et une relative domination dans l’espace politique local. Dans ces conditions, la référence au sociologue de l’immigration s’y présente comme une ressource en forte adéquation avec les trajectoires et positions sociales des intéressés et comme une arme dans le jeu politique local. Son ambivalence fournit les clés de compréhension de sa progressive accession à l’espace public, la personnalisation et la canonisation qu’opèrent ces usages profanes accentuant in fine l’aspect politique de l’œuvre de Sayad.
Triangles of Baumslag–Solitar Groups
Authors: Allcock Daniel
Published: August 2011

Our main result is that many triangles of Baumslag–Solitar groups collapse to finite groups, generalizing a famous example of Hirsch and other examples due to several authors. A triangle of Baumslag–Solitar groups means a group with three generators, cyclically ordered, with each generator conjugating some power of the previous one to another power. There are six parameters, occurring in pairs, and we show that the triangle fails to be developable whenever one of the parameters divides its partner, except for a few special cases. Furthermore, under fairly general conditions, the group turns out to be finite and solvable of derived length ≤ 3. We obtain a lot of information about finite quotients, even when we cannot determine developability.
A confiança do usuário na administração de dados da Dataprev
Authors: Coutinho Magali Granja , Ribas José Roberto , Vieira Paulo Roberto da Costa
Published: August 2011

A qualidade da informação tem despertado interesse crescente dos estudiosos da área de negócios, por se tratar de uma peça fundamental na tomada de decisão em todos os níveis da gestão corporativa. Recomenda-se, portanto, em pensar no seu conceito não como um meio, da forma como é geralmente concebida, mas sim como um produto. Neste estudo, enfatiza-se a necessidade dos gestores por indicadores que possibilitem avaliar a maneira pela qual a informação é percebida em função de seu uso, seu valor e sua confiabilidade. Desse modo, o objetivo deste estudo é verificar se a confiança do usuário interno é influenciada pela qualidade e pelo valor percebido da informação prestada pela área de Administração de Dados. A pesquisa tipo survey foi realizada na Dataprev, empresa pública de tecnologia da informação a serviço da previdência social. A amostra não aleatória foi constituída por 108 respondentes, cujos dados foram coletados por meio de um questionário estruturado contendo 14 questões medidas por uma escala Likert com cinco pontos, os quais foram tratados com uma Modelagem de Equações Estruturais (MEE). Constatou-se que o construto Qualidade da Informação é um antecedente significativo para o Valor Percebido, o qual atua como construto mediador para com a Confiança em relação à informação. Confirmou-se, ademais, a adequação da MEE às questões que envolvam relações causais entre variáveis latentes.
Qualidade percebida e seus impactos sobre a satisfação, confiança e lealdade: um estudo com varejistas eletrônicos de serviços de download gratuito
Authors: Baptista Paulo de Paula , Silva Wesley Vieira da , Goss Lirian Patty
Published: August 2011

Este trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar a opinião dos consumidores quanto à qualidade dos serviços oferecidos por sites de download gratuitos na internet e verificar qual a influência na lealdade, satisfação e confiança para com os sites. A amostra final coletada constitui-se de 5.793 usuários que utilizam sites de download. Como técnicas de análise dos dados utilizaram-se as estatísticas univariadas convencionais e a técnica de modelagem de equações estruturais. Os resultados auferidos confirmam trêsdas seishipóteses estabelecidas, a priori, demonstrando que a satisfação possui efeitos diretos e positivos sobre a lealdade e a confiança; e a qualidade percebida possui efeitos diretos sobre a satisfação, já quetrês outras hipóteses foram rejeitadas, indicando que nem a qualidade e nem a confiança possuem efeitos diretos sobre a lealdade e que a qualidade também não influencia diretamente a confiança.
Predicting and partitioning ozone fluxes to maize crops from sowing to harvest: the Surfatm-O3 model
Authors: Stella P. , Personne E. , Loubet B. , Lamaud E. , Ceschia E. , Béziat P. , Bonnefond J. M. , Irvine M. , Keravec P. , Mascher N. , Cellier P.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. Terrestrial ecosystems represent a major sink for ozone (O3) and also a critical control of tropospheric O3 budget. However, due to its deleterious effects, plant functioning is affected by the ozone absorbed. It is thus necessary to both predict total ozone deposition to ecosystems and partition the fluxes in stomatal and non-stomatal pathways. The Surfatm-O3 model was developed to predict ozone deposition to agroecosystems from sowing to harvest, taking into account each deposition pathways during bare soil, growth, maturity, and senescence periods. An additional sink was added during senescence: stomatal deposition for yellow leaves, not able to photosynthesise but transpiring. The model was confronted to measurements performed over three maize crops in different regions of France. Modelled and measured fluxes agreed well for one dataset for any phenological stage, with only 3 % difference over the whole cropping season. A larger discrepancy was found for the two other sites, 16 % and 19 % over the entire study period, especially during bare soil, early growth and senescence. This was attributed to site-specific soil resistance to ozone and possible chemical reactions between ozone and volatile organic compounds emitted during late senescence. Considering both night-time and daytime conditions, non-stomatal deposition was the major ozone sink, from 100 % during bare soil period to 70–80 % on average during maturity. However, considering only daytime conditions, especially under optimal climatic conditions for plant functioning, stomatal flux could represent 75 % of total ozone flux. This model could improve estimates of crop yield losses and projections of tropospheric ozone budget.
Coupling Green-Ampt infiltration method and two-dimensional kinematic wave theory for flood forecast in semi-arid catchment
Authors: Wang L.-L. , Chen D.-H. , Li Z.-J. , Zhao L.-N.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. Due to the specific characteristics of semi-arid catchments, this paper aims to establish a grid-and-Green-Ampt-and-two-dimensional-kinematic-wave-based distributed hydrological physical model (Grid-GA-2D model) coupling Green-Ampt infiltration method and two dimensional overland flow routing model based on kinematic wave theory for flood simulation and forecasting with using GIS technology and digital elevation model (DEM). Taking into consideration the soil moisture redistribution at hillslope, Green-Ampt infiltration physical method is applied for grid-based runoff generation and two-dimensional implicit finite difference kinematic wave model is introduced to solve depressions water storing for grid-based overland flow concentration routing in the Grid-GA-2D model. The Grid-GA-2D model, the Grid-GA model with coupling Green-Ampt infiltration method and one-dimension kinematic wave theory, and Shanbei model were employed to the upper Kongjiapo catchment in Qin River, a tributary of the Yellow River, with an area of 1454 km2 for flood simulation. Results show that two grid-based distributed hydrological models perform better in flood simulation and can be used for flood forecasting in semi-arid catchments. Comparing with the Grid-GA model, the flood peak simulation accuracy of the newly developed model is higher.
Status Epilepticus Identification and Treatment Among Emergency Medical Services Agencies
Authors: Wood Andrew J. , Burke James F. , Lowenstein Daniel H. , Guterman Elan L.
Published: June 2024

This cross-sectional study examines the association between unidentified status epilepticus and prehospital benzodiazepine treatment.
Identification of cyanobacteria overwintering cells and environmental conditions causing growth: Application for preventative management
Authors: Calomeni‐Eck Alyssa J. , McQueen Andrew D. , Kinley‐Baird Ciera M. , Clyde Tony
Published: June 2024

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) formed by freshwater cyanobacteria pose risks to human and ecological health globally. Some cyanobacteria form overwintering cells that remain in the sediment during non‐ideal growth conditions and provide an inoculum for HABs during the growing season, perpetuating the cyanobacterial life cycle. Preventative management targeted at decreasing the viability of overwintering cells is an attractive strategy for limiting HAB formation and decreasing risks.

However, this approach is novel, and information is needed for sampling, identification and enumeration of overwintering cells in sediments as well as methods for determining if overwintering cells have the potential to contribute to HAB formation. Peer reviewed literature related to these topics are available; yet these data need to be synthesized and placed into the context of management. Therefore, a strategic review was conducted to inform methods and data needs for this preventative strategy.

To sample overwintering cells, corers or dredges are used to collect surficial (0–2 cm) sediment layers containing overwintering cells. Identification and enumeration of overwintering cells via light microscopy are aided by dilution, sieving, or density separation of cells from sediment. Incubation studies which simulate environmental conditions triggering akinete germination and cell growth provide evidence of overwintering cell viability.

Critical environmental conditions are light (≥0.5 μmol m−2 s−1) and temperature (20–30°C) for triggering akinete germination and growth of quiescent vegetative Microcystis sp. cells, respectively. Limited information was available on the roles of mixing and dissolved oxygen as environmental conditions for germination and growth.

Synthesized information can be used to identify potential areas of concern in which overwintering cells are contributing to HABs. Additionally, this information can be used to design incubation studies in which field collected sediments containing overwintering cells are placed in ideal environmental conditions for germination and growth and cyanobacteria transferring to the water column are measured over time. These data inform investigations of areas that are candidates for preventative management and measurements of overwintering cell responses to management.
Kalman‐based multiple sinusoids identification from intermittently missing measurements of the superimposed signal
Authors: Naik Amit Kumar , Nanda Sumanta Kumar , Upadhyay Prabhat Kumar , Singh Abhinoy Kumar
Published: June 2024

We consider the problem of stochastic identification of multiple sinusoids from intermittently missing measurements of superimposed signal. An alternate problem formulation is presented as estimation of amplitude and frequency of the sinusoids from missing measurements. The popularly known estimation methods, such as the extended Kalman filter (EKF) and cubature Kalman filter (CKF) may fail or suffer from poor accuracy if the measurements are missing. In this paper, we redesign the EKF to handle this irregularity in measurements and apply the modified EKF for the formulated estimation problem. In this regard, we introduce a modified measurement model incorporating the possibility of missing measurements. Subsequently, we rederive the relevant parameters of the EKF, such as measurement estimate, measurement error covariance, and state‐measurement cross‐covariance, for the modified measurement model. Furthermore, we rederive the posterior covariance with minimized trace and study the stability of the resulting extension of the EKF. The results reveal the superior performance of the modified EKF compared with the ordinary Gaussian filters and existing filters‐based estimation of the sinusoids in the presence of intermittently missing measurements.
Nanoporous, Gas Permeable PEGDA Ink for 3D Printing Organ‐on‐a‐Chip Devices
Authors: Karamzadeh Vahid , Shen Molly L. , Shafique Houda , Lussier Felix , Juncker David
Published: June 2024

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), commonly used in organ‐on‐a‐chip (OoC) systems, faces limitations in replicating complex geometries, hindering its effectiveness in creating 3D OoC models. In contrast, poly(ethylene glycol)diacrylate (PEGDA‐250), favored for its fabrication ease and resistance to small molecule absorption, is increasingly used for 3D printing microfluidic devices. However, applications in cell culture have been limited due to poor cell adhesion. Here, a nanoporous PEGDA ink (P‐PEGDA) is introduced to enhance cell adhesion. P‐PEGDA is formulated with a porogen, photopolymerized, followed by the porogen removal. Utilizing P‐PEGDA, complex microstructures, and membranes as thin as 27 µm are 3D‐printed. Porogen concentrations from 10 to 30% are tested yielding constructs with increasing porosity and oxygen permeability surpassing PDMS, without compromising printing resolution. Tests across four cell lines show >80% cell viability, with a notable 77‐fold increase in MDA‐MB‐231 cell coverage on the porous scaffolds. Finally, an OoC model comprising a gyroid scaffold with a central opening filled with a cancer spheroid is introduced. This setup, after a 14 days co‐culture, demonstrates significant endothelial sprouting and integration within the spheroid. The P‐PEGDA formulation is suitable for high‐resolution 3D printing of constructs for 3D cell culture and OoC owing to its printability, gas permeability, biocompatibility, and cell adhesion.
Nanocellulose as Reaction Medium for FeCl3‐Mediated Mechanochemical Deaminative Fluorination of (Hetero)aromatic Amines
Authors: Mkrtchyan Satenik , Shalimov Oleksandr , Purohit Vishal B. , Zapletal Jiří , Prajapati Vaibhav D. , Prajapati Ronak V. , Elumalai Dhanasekar , Garcia Michael G. , Filo Juraj , Addová Gabriela , Benická Barbora , Iaroshenko Viktor O.
Published: June 2024

The development of an efficient alternative to the widely employed Balz‐Schiemann deaminative fluorination method (i. e. without using aryl diazonium tetrafluoroborate salt) is a challenging task. Herein, we report a convenient one‐pot method for the FeCl3‐nanocellullose mediated mechanochemical synthesis of fluoroarenes through the selective substitution of an aromatic amino group by fluorine group using pyrylium tetrafluoroborate (Pyry‐BF4) and sodium fluoride (NaF) via in situ formation of pyridinium salt intermediate. The scope of the present protocol includes synthesis of thirty‐four organofluorine compounds with excellent yields via a selective substitution (SNAr) of an amino group by fluorine. The presented concise methodology opens a pathway to access new chemical spaces for the late‐stage functionalization in pharmaceutical industries.
Advanced Development of In situ Characterization Technique for Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhu Enchi , Hu Weifeng , Dong Jie , Chen Jianmei , Li Yue , Wang Longlu
Published: June 2024

Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) from water splitting using renewable energy provides a promising solution to the global energy crisis and environmental problems. However, the lack of in‐depth understanding of the reaction mechanism and clear identification of the catalytic active site has hindered the further development of low‐cost, high‐performance, and long‐life efficient electrocatalysts. Through in situ characterization techniques, the activity and stability of catalysts can be monitored in real‐time, track the structural evolution of catalytic reaction intermediates, and obtain a deep understanding of catalytic reaction mechanism, so as to feedback and guide the development and utilization of the catalyst. In this review, advanced development of in situ characterization techniques in electrocatalytic HER in recent years is summarized. In situ spectroscopy can be used to track the behavior of reaction intermediates such as adsorption, desorption, and structural evolution at the molecular level to reveal the electrocatalytic HER mechanism. The imaging techniques can be used to observe the evolution of material structure during HER in situ, which provides valuable information for the understanding of visualization of catalytic hydrogen evolution at atomic level. This review contributes to theadvanced development of in situ characterization technique for electrocatalytic HER.
HPK1 Dysregulation‐Associated NK Cell Dysfunction and Defective Expansion Promotes Metastatic Melanoma Progression
Authors: Choi Woo Seon , Kwon Hyung‐Joon , Yi Eunbi , Lee Haeun , Kim Jung Min , Park Hyo Jin , Choi Eun Ji , Choi Myoung Eun , Sung Young Hoon , Won Chong Hyun , Sung Chang Ohk , Kim Hun Sik
Published: June 2024

Distant metastasis, the leading cause of cancer death, is efficiently kept in check by immune surveillance. Studies have uncovered peripheral natural killer (NK) cells as key antimetastatic effectors and their dysregulation during metastasis. However, the molecular mechanism governing NK cell dysfunction links to metastasis remains elusive. Herein, MAP4K1 encoding HPK1 is aberrantly overexpressed in dysfunctional NK cells in the periphery and the metastatic site. Conditional HPK1 overexpression in NK cells suffices to exacerbate melanoma lung metastasis but not primary tumor growth. Conversely, MAP4K1‐deficient mice are resistant to metastasis and further protected by combined immune‐checkpoint inhibitors. Mechanistically, HPK1 restrains NK cell cytotoxicity and expansion via activating receptors. Likewise, HPK1 limits human NK cell activation and associates with melanoma NK cell dysfunction couples to TGF‐β1 and patient response to immune checkpoint therapy. Thus, HPK1 is an intracellular checkpoint controlling NK‐target cell responses, which is dysregulated and hijacked by tumors during metastatic progression.
Monodisperse Manganese‐Vanadium‐Oxo Clusters with Extraordinary Lithium Storage
Authors: Tang Wensi , Qiu Tianyu , Hu Zhiyuan , Li Yingqi , Yao Ruiqi , Wang Yonghui , Lang Xingyou , Tan Huaqiao , Li Yangguang , Jiang Qing
Published: June 2024

Although possessing well‐defined nanostructures and excellent multi‐electron redox properties, polyoxometalate clusters have poor intrinsic electrical conductivity and are prone to aggregation due to large surface energy, which makes them difficult to be fully utilized when applying as electrode materials for lithium‐ion batteries. In this paper, monodisperse K7MnV13O38 (MnV13) clusters are achieved by rationally utilizing nano‐sized high conductive carbon dots (CDs) as stabilizers. Benefiting from the fully exposed redox sites of MnV13 clusters (high utilization rate) and sufficient interfaces with carbon dots (extra interfacial energy storage), the optimized MnV13/10CDs anode delivers a high discharge capacity up to 1348 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.1 A g−1 and exhibits superb rate/cycling capabilities. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations verify that ionic archway channels are formed between MnV13 and CDs, eliminating the bandgap and greatly improving the electron/ion conductivity of MnV13 and CDs. This paper paves a brand‐new way for synthesis of monodisperse clusters and maximization of extra interfacial energy storage.
Highly Promising 2D/1D BP‐C/CNT Bionic Opto‐Olfactory Co‐Sensory Artificial Synapses for Multisensory Integration
Authors: Dong Liyan , Xue Baojing , Wei Guodong , Yuan Shuai , Chen Mi , Liu Yue , Su Ying , Niu Yong , Xu Bingshe , Wang Pan
Published: June 2024

The development of high‐performance artificial synaptic neuromorphic devices poses a significant challenge in the creation of biomimetic sensing neural systems that seamlessly integrate both sensory and computational functionalities. In pursuit of this objective, promising bionic opto‐olfactory co‐sensory artificial synapse devices are constructed utilizing the BP‐C/CNT (2D/1D) hybrid filter membrane as the resistive layer. Experimental results demonstrated that the devices seamlessly integrated the light modulation, gas detection, and biological synaptic functions into a single device while addressing the challenge with separating artificial synaptic devices from sensors. These devices offered the following advantages: 1) Simulating visual synapses, they can effectively replicate fundamental synaptic functions under both electrical and optical stimulation. 2) By emulating olfactory synapse responses to specific gases, they can achieve ultra‐low detection limits and rapid identification of ethanol and acetone gases. 3) They enable photo‐olfactory co‐sensing simulations that mimic synaptic function under light‐modulated pulse conditions in distinct gas environments, facilitating the study of synaptic learning rules and Pavlovian responses. This work provides a pioneering approach for exploring highly stable 2D BP‐based optoelectronics and advancing the development of biomimetic neural systems.
C‐reactive protein (CRP) in high altitude Bolivian peri‐urban adolescents varies by adiposity, current illness, height, socioeconomic status, sex, and menarcheal status: The potential benefits and costs of adipose reserves in arduous environments
Authors: Vitzthum Virginia J. , Thornburg Jonathan , McDade Thomas W. , Hicks Kathryn A. , Miller Aaron , Chester Emily M. , Goodlett Baileigh , Caceres Esperanza , Spielvogel Hilde
Published: June 2024

Objectives

In non‐industrialized and low‐income populations, adipose stores can serve as a valuable buffer against harsh conditions such as seasonal food scarcity. However, these reserves may incur costs due to adipocytes' production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines; inflammation is associated with increased risk for cardiometabolic diseases later in life. Life history theory posits that, especially in populations with high juvenile mortality, higher adiposity may nonetheless be advantageous if its benefits in early life outweigh its later costs. Relatively little is known about adolescents' C‐reactive protein concentration (CRP; an inflammation biomarker) in such environments. We investigated CRP and its associations with several hypothesized predictors in adolescents in an economically diverse peri‐urban Andean community.

Methods

We measured CRP in dried blood spots and collected data on anthropometrics, illnesses, socioeconomic status (SES), and menarcheal status in 59 female and 40 male adolescents (“Alteños”, 11.0–14.9 years old) with normal vital signs in El Alto, Bolivia (~4150 m amsl). We used Cole's LMS method to standardize all anthropometrics for sex and age, and principal components analysis to construct a “fat‐factor” variable loading on these standardized z‐scores. We used multiple linear regression to assess the influence of fat‐factor and other likely predictors on CRP rank.

Results

Compared to a national Bolivian growth reference, Alteños were, on average, shorter and leaner; only 6% were classified as overweight and none were obese. Pre‐menarche females were on average leaner than post‐menarche females. The best‐fitting model explained 24% of the variance in CRP rank. Significant predictors were fat‐factor, SES, current illness for males and pre‐menarche females, and z‐height for females.

Conclusions

Our results are consistent with a tradeoff between investments in growth versus immune functioning, as might be expected in an environment with limited resources and high pathogen exposure (e.g., soil‐transmitted helminths, poor sanitation). Thinner Alteños appear to maintain a minimum CRP concentration independent of fat‐factor, while fatter (or less‐thin) Alteños' CRP rises with fat‐factor. Female Alteños appear to be trading off investment in immune response for investment in growth and maturation. Alteños' high rate of stunting and absence of obesity suggests chronic, presumably multifactorial, stress. Adipose stores likely buffer against some of these stressors and, in an environment such as this—in which many lack sufficient nutritious foods, potable water, adequate sewage, and health care—may confer a net lifetime benefit.
Enhancing decanter centrifuge process design with data‐driven material parameters in multi‐compartment modeling
Authors: Zhai Ouwen , Ehret Niklas , Rhein Frank , Gleiss Marco
Published: June 2024

Predicting the separation performance of decanter centrifuges is challenging due to dynamic events within the apparatus. Current methods for designing decanter centrifuges rely on simplified models, often leading to inaccuracies. Consequently, manufacturers must perform time‐intensive pilot scale experiments to derive their own correction factors. Growing computing power sparks interest in alternative modeling strategies. Grey box models (GBM) combine mechanistic white box models (WBM) and data‐driven black box models (BBM), with the optimal structure (parallel or serial) varying by application. For modeling decanter centrifuges, we propose a serial GBM that comprises an artificial neural network that outputs unknown material parameters into a first‐principle multi‐compartment model. Comparing this approach to alternative data‐driven modeling strategies (pure BBM, parallel GBM), we conclude that the serial GBM excels in terms of extrapolation, prediction ability, and transparency while also enabling a better comprehension of the separation process.
Complex Pathways Drive Pluripotent Fmoc‐Leucine Self‐Assemblies
Authors: Paul Subir , Gayen Kousik , Cantavella Pau Gil , Escuder Beatriu , Singh Nishant
Published: June 2024

Nature uses complex self‐assembly pathways to access distinct functional non‐equilibrium self‐assemblies. This remarkable ability to steer same set of biomolecules into different self‐assembly states is done by avoiding thermodynamic pit. In synthetic systems, on demand control over ‘Pathway Complexity’ to access self‐assemblies different from equilibrium structures remains challenging. Here we show versatile non‐equilibrium assemblies of the same monomer via alternate assembly pathways. The assemblies nucleate using non‐classical or classical nucleation routes into distinct metastable (transient hydrogels), kinetic (stable hydrogels) and thermodynamic structures [(poly)‐crystals and 2D sheets]. Initial chemical and thermal inputs force the monomers to follow different assembly pathways and form soft‐materials with distinct molecular arrangements than at equilibrium. In many cases, equilibrium structures act as thermodynamic sink which consume monomers from metastable structures giving transiently formed materials. This dynamics can be tuned chemically or thermally to slow down the dissolution of transient hydrogel, or skip the intermediate hydrogel altogether to reach final equilibrium assemblies. If required this metastable state can be kinetically trapped to give strong hydrogel stable over days. This method to control different self‐assembly states can find potential use in similar biomimetic systems to access new materials for various applications.
Structure‐Prediction‐Oriented Synthesis of Thiophosphates as Promising Infrared Nonlinear Optical Materials
Authors: Huang Yi , Chu Dongdong , Zhang Yong , Xie Congwei , Li Guangmao , Pan Shilie
Published: June 2024

Oriented synthesis of functional materials is a focus of attention in material science. As one of the most important function materials, infrared nonlinear optical materials with large second harmonic generation effects and broad optical band gap are in urgent need. In this work, directed by the theoretical structure prediction, the first series of non‐centrosymmetric (NCS) alkali‐alkaline earth metal [PS4]‐based thiophosphates LiCaPS4 (Ama2), NaCaPS4 (P21), KCaPS4 (Pna21), RbCaPS4 (Pna21), CsCaPS4 (Pna21) were successfully synthesized. Comprehensive characterizations reveal that ACaPS4 could be regarded as promising IR NLO materials, exhibiting wide band gap (3.77–3.86 eV), moderate birefringence (0.027–0.064 at 1064 nm), high laser‐induced damage threshold (LIDT, ~10×AGS), and suitable phase‐matching second harmonic generation responses (0.4–0.6×AGS). Structure‐properties analyses illustrate that the Ca−S bonds show non‐ignorable covalent feature, and [PS4] together with [CaSn] units play dominant roles to determine the band gap and SHG response. This work indicates that Li‐, Na‐ and K‐ analogs may be promising infrared nonlinear optical material candidates, and this is the first successful case of “prediction to synthesis” involving infrared (IR) nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals in the thiophosphate system and may provide a new avenue to the design and oriented synthesis of high‐performance function materials in the future.
Miniaturized Electrochemical Sensing Platforms for Quantitative Monitoring of Glutamate Dynamics in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Wang Qi , Yang Chunyu , Chen Shulin , Li Jinghua
Published: June 2024

Glutamate is one of the most important excitatory neurotransmitters within the mammalian central nervous system. The role of glutamate in regulating neural network signaling transmission through both synaptic and extra‐synaptic paths highlights the importance of the real‐time and continuous monitoring of its concentration and dynamics in living organisms. Progresses in multidisciplinary research have promoted the development of electrochemical glutamate sensors through the co‐design of materials, interfaces, electronic devices, and integrated systems. This review summarizes recent works reporting various electrochemical sensor designs and their applicability as miniaturized neural probes to in vivo sensing within biological environments. We start with an overview of the role and physiological significance of glutamate, the metabolic routes, and its presence in various bodily fluids. Next, we discuss the design principles, commonly employed validation models/protocols, and successful demonstrations of multifunctional, compact, and bio‐integrated devices in animal models. The final section provides an outlook on the development of the next generation glutamate sensors for neuroscience and neuroengineering, with the aim of offering practical guidance for future research.
Quantitative Kinetic Insights from Operando‐UV/Vis Spectroscopy: An Application to NH3−SCR of NOx on Cu‐CHA Catalysts
Authors: Negri Chiara , Usberti Nicola , Contaldo Gabriele , Bracconi Mauro , Nova Isabella , Maestri Matteo , Tronconi Enrico
Published: June 2024

We employ UV/Vis Diffuse Reflectance spectroscopy directly coupled with a packed bed flow reactor to extract quantitative kinetic information. We use as a show‐case the CuII/CuI redox dynamics during the reduction half cycle of the NH3‐Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) on Cu‐CHA catalysts. Our measurements enable quantification of the fraction of oxidized Cu, reconstructed by Multivariate Curve Resolution (MCR) together with monitoring of the gas‐phase evolution during the reaction. These data both on the dynamics of the gas‐phase and of the active site oxidation state have been used to assess the reduction half cycle rate equation and estimate the rate constant. Our results in terms of reaction orders and kinetic constant are in line with previous findings in the literature. Overall, our results demonstrate that the combined analysis of the UV spectra and of the gas‐phase dynamics provides converging and unparalleled kinetic insight: this approach effectively resolves ambiguities concerning RHC kinetics and mechanism. More in general, this work provides evidence that operando spectroscopy can be used to extract quantitative kinetic information on catalytic cycles.