bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hacia la concreción de un modelo de perfil profesional básico del profesorado de Ciencias, Tecnología y Matemáticas (CTEM)
Authors: Quílez Juan , Segura Carlos , Cardeñosa Manuel , Thibaut Elena , Olmo Julio , Crespo Rafael , Azkárraga José María
Published: February 2017

En este trabajo se fundamenta y se establece un marco de competencias específicas que pueden servir como guía de un proceso continuo de desarrollo profesional del docente de Ciencias, Tecnología y Matemáticas(CTEM). La base teórica de este escenario corresponde al modelo TPACK, al que se ha añadido la dimensión lingüística (L), transformándolo en el modelo TPACLK. Las distintas capacidades profesionales que se detallan se han clasificado en seis grandes apartados. Los dos primeros establecen las competencias disciplinares y didácticas del ámbito CTEM; la tercera categoría corresponde al papel de la lengua en el aula CTEM; la cuarta sección se centra en los aspectos motivacionales del proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje; la quinta, corresponde a la autopercepción del profesorado y en la última parte se esquematiza cómo integrar de forma efectiva las tecnologías del aprendizaje y del conocimiento en el trabajo docente CTEM. Este desarrollo profesional se plantea dentro del marco de la innovación y la investigación educativas.
Matemáticas Dialógicas. ‘Yo soy de mates’
Authors: Díez-Palomar Javier
Published: February 2017

En este artículo se hace una presentación del enfoque de las matemáticas dialógicas a través de tres actuaciones educativas de éxito (AEE): los grupos interactivos, la formación en matemáticas de familiares, y las tertulias matemáticas dialógicas.  El objetivo es ilustrar a través de tres ejemplos cómo funcionan dichas AEE, que los estudios previos han demostrado que contribuyen a mejorar los aprendizajes de las matemáticas. Se concluye que el enfoque del análisis de las interacciones abre las puertas a comprender mejor cómo aprendemos matemáticas, y la creación de espacios dialógicos basados en dichas contribuciones puede ser una oportunidad para mejorar las puntuaciones de matemáticas de nuestros estudiantes.
Most Frequent Oral Lesions in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: De Carli João P , Lima Igor FP , Verardi Georgia , Ferreira Michele De C , da Silva Soluete O , Paranhos Luiz R
Published: February 2017

Aim

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) is a chronic disease caused by the underproduction of insulin in the organism and it is considered a risk factor to periodontal disease.

Materials and methods

This study performed a cross-sectional research on the main oral changes in patients with DM2 and nondiabetics, in Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The sample included 116 patients examined at the Diabetes Outpatient Clinic of the School of Medicine of the University of Passo Fundo (UPF) and 134 nondiabetic patients examined at the Examinations, Triage, and Emergency Sector of the School of Dentistry of UPF. Inclusion criteria for the study were patients over 35-years old, diagnosed with DM2 for more than 2 years. The same criteria were used for the control group, except for the presence of diabetes. Data collected were analyzed by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 18.0 for Windows™ software and the Chi-square test at 5% significance. This study showed that, overall, oral lesions were more prevalent in diabetic patients.

Results

The stomatological manifestations observed more frequently in such patients were pseudomembranous candidiasis, lichen planus, lingual varices, xerostomia, and prosthetic stomatitis (p > 0.001).

Conclusion

Therefore, based on the sample investigated, it is concluded that patients with DM2 present higher prevalence of oral lesions when compared with nondiabetics.

Clinical significance

It is important for the dentist to know about oral lesions because they may allow either early diagnosis in patients unaware of this condition or help diagnosing a potential decompensation. Moreover, oral lesions may represent a potential gateway for infectious agents, and the dentist may restrain this condition by performing treatment as early as possible.

How to cite this article

Trentin MS, Verardi G, De C Ferreira M, de Carli JP, da Silva SO, Lima IFP, Paranhos LR. Most Frequent Oral Lesions in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. J Contemp Dent Pract 2017;18(2):107-111.
Radiofrequency Glow Discharge as a Mode of Disinfection for Elastomeric Impression Materials
Authors: Alani Mathew M , Reba PB , Mathew Susan , Nair KN Velayudhan , Haridas Sayij , Thomas Sherin A
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Prosthodontic practice involves procedures in which impressions of the maxillary and mandibular arches are mandatory. Cross infection is one of the major problems that can occur in regular dental practice. Every dentist should take utmost care to prevent cross infection as oral cavity is the source of variety of microorganisms which can often cause diseases that can be fatal. Although precautions, such as wearing of gloves and mask, sterilization of instruments are given importance, the need for disinfection of impressions is often neglected. Hence, the aim of the study was to assess the disinfection potential of radiofrequency glow discharge (RGD) by microbiological studies.

Materials and methods

Disinfection potential of RGD on addition silicone (Reprosil, Dentsply, Milford DE, USA) was assessed. Total sample size was 20. Samples were divided into two groups of 10 each. Group I – control group and group II – RGD-treated group. Main groups were subdivided into subgroups A and B. Data collected were analyzed.

Results

The RGD-treated samples were found to be culture sterile which meant that there were no signs of growth of any organisms, thus proving the disinfection potential of RGD.

Conclusion

From this study, we can conclude that RGD is a very rapid and handy device, which can disinfect saliva contaminated elastomeric impression material surfaces.

Clinical significance

When compared with the difficulties and lack of efficiency encountered in disinfecting impressions by immersion and spray atomization, RGD can be very handy in dental clinics, as it is a very rapid and convenient method for infection control.

How to cite this article

Mathew S, Alani MM, Nair KNV, Haridas S, Reba PB, Thomas SA. Radiofrequency Glow Discharge as a Mode of Disinfection for Elastomeric Impression Materials. J Contemp Dent Pract 2017;18(2):131-136.
Large-scale gravity wave perturbations in the mesopause region above Northern Hemisphere midlatitudes during autumnal equinox: a joint study by the USU Na lidar and Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model
Authors: Cai Xuguang , Yuan Tao , Liu Han-Li
Published: February 2017

Abstract. To investigate gravity wave (GW) perturbations in the midlatitude mesopause region during boreal equinox, 433 h of continuous Na lidar full diurnal cycle temperature measurements in September between 2011 and 2015 are utilized to derive the monthly profiles of GW-induced temperature variance, T′2, and the potential energy density (PED). Operating at Utah State University (42° N, 112° W), these lidar measurements reveal severe GW dissipation near 90 km, where both parameters drop to their minima (∼ 20 K2 and ∼ 50 m2 s−2, respectively). The study also shows that GWs with periods of 3–5 h dominate the midlatitude mesopause region during the summer–winter transition. To derive the precise temperature perturbations a new tide removal algorithm suitable for all ground-based observations is developed to de-trend the lidar temperature measurements and to isolate GW-induced perturbations. It removes the tidal perturbations completely and provides the most accurate GW perturbations for the ground-based observations. This algorithm is validated by comparing the true GW perturbations in the latest mesoscale-resolving Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (WACCM) with those derived from the WACCM local outputs by applying this newly developed tidal removal algorithm.
Mortgaged Minds: Faculty-in-Debt and Redlining Higher Education
Authors: Scheper Jeanne
Published: February 2017

While undergraduate student loan debt continues to be “hard to register,” there are other conditions and effects of the student loan debt spiral that remain relatively invisible, unexamined, and certainly receive less attention in news headlines or on the op-ed pages about the fiscal cliff of education debt. These are the effects of this debt spiral on graduate education, faculty composition, and knowledge production itself. This article highlights how the debt load of faculty is part of the current student loan debt spiral, yet its effects on the working conditions of faculty, the learning conditions of students, and, importantly, the production of knowledge in the university remain underexamined.
Labor Market Consideration as Course Selection Criteria among First Year Students in a Faculty in a Malaysian University
Authors: Subramaniam Thirunaukarasu , Ariff Mohammad Raduan Mohd , Idris Hanizah
Published: February 2017

This paper aims to identify factors that are considered by the first year undergraduate students from Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS), University of Malaya  in course selection process in two different stages namely pre-entry and post-entry. Findings from this study reveals that in  pre-entry selection criteria, ‘teacher’  and ‘family’ factors appears to be more important. ‘Labour market consideration’ only appears to be the third important factor in this stage. These three factors collectively explains  approximately 54 percent of the variation in pre-entry selection criteria.  In post-entry  selection criteria, ‘peers influence’ , ‘orientation week’ and ‘limited choices’ factors emerged as important dimensions. These three factors in turn collectively explains approximately 49  percent of the variation in post-entry selection criteria.  ‘Labour market consideration’  emerges only  as the second last important  factor  in  post-entry  selection criteria.   Keywords: Pre-Entry; Post-Entry; Selection Criteria; Labour Market Consideration; Malaysia
Investigating the Relationship between Organizational Psychological Capital and Meaning in the Employees’work (Shahid Beheshti University as a Case Study)
Authors: Mehrabi Soheila , Babri Hasan , Frohar Mohammed , Khabazuan Bita , Salili Sarvenaze
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between psychological capital and meaning in work among the employees of Shahid Beheshti University. The statistical population of this study includes all of the employees that were working in Shahid Beheshti University in 2011 and then a sample of 103 employees was selected from them randomly. In order to collect the data, two standard questionnaires were used. These include the questionnaire of psychological capital that was developed by Lotanz et al. in 2077 and the questionnaire of meaning that is developed by Stager et al. in 2010. The results of this study indicate that there are significant positive relationships among the components of psychological capital (including self-efficiency, optimism, hopefulness, and flexibility) and the components of meaning in work (positive meaning, meaning-making through work, and creating good motivations). On the other hand, the results of regression analysis indicate that two components of psychological capital (including self-efficiency and hopefulness) have more predictability of meaning in work. Keywords: psychological capital, meaning in work, employees
A Historical View of Human Resource Management Practice: Literature Review
Authors: Aslam Hassan Danial , Aslam Mehmood , Ali Naeem , Habib Badar , Jabeen Madiha
Published: February 2017

Managing human resource was always an important concern for managers in any organization. Today, human resource management proves one of the main stream departments in modern businesses. This paper aims to focus at history of this management function. This theoretical research narrows down the literature and presents detail analysis of the origins of human resource management discipline. Author has elaborated various researches and literature resources in order to understand the history of human resource management theories and focus on various theories, models and frameworks on which this discipline was started off in history
An Exploration of Gender Based Differences in Workplace Values
Authors: M Fapohunda, Tinuke.
Published: February 2017

Possible gender differences in the workplace are always a hot topic because they might explain why men continue to dominate in the jobs arena, despite the significant headway being made by women. Recent data indicate that males and females have somewhat differing priorities in their jobs but share basic ideas of what they think is important. Some research has shown that a supposed values gap between male and female workers does not explain away why men continue to enjoy greater career advancement than women. Social scientists have also theorized that work environments can embody both "male" and "female" characteristics, which may impact job satisfaction. Taking steps to better understand worker’s values can bring about important advantage in developing workable and well-supported policies. Understanding what men and women value in a job is important to designing effective approaches to human resource management and in skill development initiatives.
Workforce Management Practices: Evolution through Ages
Authors: Kumar Arun , Singh Priyadarshani
Published: February 2017

AbstractManagement of today is relatively at liberty to concentrate on higher business issues, as the information age has bestowed them with advanced solutions of workforce management. This age is capitalizing on automated and integrated workforce management and optimization solutions. Not only has it eased the workforce management process but has also transformed the workforce management practices. It has transformed all the aspects of managing the complete workforce lifecycle. Workforce management has travelled a long journey.The enigmas of workforce management can be unfold by exploring the workforce management from the very beginning. What were the workforce management practices in preceding ages, how did they evolve?This paper analyses the four ages of civilization – hunter and gatherers (foragers), agrarians, industrial and information for workforce management functions with the lens of evolution. The paper intends to understand the evolutionary pattern of workforce management in order to align the practices in line with need of the day, and find a path to understand the future course, in approach and practice.
Assess the maturity level of organizational citizenship behavior among employees of engineering and technical company in Isfahan Province, Iran
Authors: Teimouri, Ph.D Hadi , Masoudi Nazanin Sheykh Abou
Published: February 2017

In order to ensure organizational efficiency, organizations need employees’ cooperation, benevolence, self-sacrifice and, at times, extra effort. Thus voluntary work by employees is important for organizations. In this sense, organizational citizenship behaviors are attached more and more importance and are frequently used in studies to understand or interpret organizational behavior. The major aim of this paper is to Assess the maturity level of organizational citizenship behavior among employees of engineering and technical company in Isfahan province, Iran. The mentioned aim will be studied by supposing some factors such as social behavior, philanthropy, sense of duty and sportsmanship as component of organizational citizenship behavior. This survey is of applied type in terms of purpose and is descriptive-field in terms of methodology. Historical study was used to collect data related to theoretical principles of research like books and scientific magazines and researcher self made questionnaire (with acceptable reliability of 94%) was applied for data collection and its analysis. The results of this research indicate that level of social behavior, philanthropy, sense of duty and sportsmanship components among employees of engineering and technical company is higher than the average level.
Islamist suicide terrorism and erich fromm’s social psychology of modern times
Authors: Aysha Emad El-Din
Published: February 2017

Mainstream social science has struggled to explain the appeal of suicide terrorism to so many Muslim youths, relying as it does on standard socio-economic indicators and research meant to identify suicidal tendencies. The existential emphasis is missing. This commentary is inspired by the work of clinical psychologist Erich Fromm (1900-1980) and his investigation of the social psychology of modernity, as well as how this intermingles with existential fears related to mortality (death-related fears) and the passage of time (the end of the world or apocalypse). Modernity, explained Fromm, makes one feel small, insignificant and isolated in the larger scheme of things. This demands a violent response, often involving self-sacrifice, to reassert the balance, which allows Islamists to take advantage of death-related anxieties and exaggerate the sense of confrontation with the world through apocalyptic prophecies. Current psychological research on death and studies of terrorism and religious extremism both confirm many of Fromm’s findings and expand on them. In this commentary I argue that the religion of Islam, far from being a source of suicide terrorism, has historically restrained both suicidal tendencies and political violence directed at civilians, but it is the slow yet sure encroachment of modernity that has eroded these theological and communitarian defences. Other problems, such as household politics, gender roles, and theological teachings concerning death likewise feed this process, as documented by Arabic researchers in contexts other than political violence.
Do syntopic host species harbour similar symbiotic communities? The case ofChaetopterusspp. (Annelida: Chaetopteridae)
Authors: Britayev Temir A. , Mekhova Elena , Deart Yury , Martin Daniel
Published: February 2017

To assess whether closely related host species harbour similar symbiotic communities, we studied two polychaetes,Chaetopterussp. (n = 11) andChaetopteruscf.appendiculatus(n = 83) living in soft sediments of Nhatrang Bay (South China Sea, Vietnam). The former harboured the porcellanid crabsPolyonyxcf.heokandPolyonyxsp., the pinnotherid crabTetriassp. and the tergipedid nudibranchPhestillasp. The latter harboured the polynoid polychaeteOphthalmonoe pettiboneae, the carapid fishOnuxodon fowleriand the porcellanid crabEulenaios cometes, all of which, exceptO. fowleri, seemed to be specialized symbionts. The species richness and mean intensity of the symbionts were higher inChaetopterussp. than inC.cf.appendiculatus(1.8 and 1.02 species and 3.0 and 1.05 individuals per host respectively). We suggest that the lower density ofChaetopterussp. may explain the higher number of associated symbionts observed, as well as the 100% prevalence (69.5% inC.cf.appenciculatus). MostChaetopterussp. harboured two symbiotic species, which was extremely rare inC.cf.appendiculatus, suggesting lower interspecific interactions in the former. The crab and nudibranch symbionts ofChaetopterussp. often shared a host and lived in pairs, thus partitioning resources. This led to the species coexisting in the tubes ofChaetopterussp., establishing a tightly packed community, indicating high species richness and mean intensity, together with a low species dominance. In contrast, the aggressive, strictly territorial species associated withC.cf.appendiculatusestablished a symbiotic community strongly dominated by single species and, thus, low species richness and mean intensity. Therefore, we suggest that interspecific interactions are determining species richness, intensity and dominance, while intraspecific interactions are influencing only intensity and abundance. It is possible that species composition may have influenced the differences in community structure observed. We hypothesize that both host species could originally be allopatric. The evolutionary specialization of the symbiotic communities would occur in separated geographical areas, while the posterior disappearance of the existing geographical barriers would lead to the overlapped distribution.
Antiseizure Medications and Cardiovascular Events in Older People With Epilepsy in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
Authors: Li Jimmy , Shlobin Nathan A. , Thijs Roland D. , Sylvestre Marie-Pierre , Josephson Colin B. , Deacon Charles , Keezer Mark R.
Published: September 2024

Importance

How epilepsy may promote cardiovascular disease remains poorly understood.

Objective

To estimate the odds of new-onset cardiovascular events (CVEs) over 6 years in older people with vs without epilepsy, exploring how enzyme-inducing antiseizure medications (EIASMs) and traditional cardiovascular risk factors mediate these odds.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a prospective cohort study using the comprehensive cohort of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA), with 6 years of follow-up (2015-2021, analysis performed in December 2023). The CLSA is an ongoing, national study of 51 338 adults aged 45 to 85 years at baseline who are recruited in Canada. The comprehensive cohort includes 30 097 individuals living near 1 of 11 data collection centers. Participation in the CLSA was voluntary; participation rate was 45%. Among those in the comprehensive cohort, individuals reporting no previous history of CVEs (ie, stroke, transient ischemic attack [TIA], or myocardial infarction [MI]) at baseline were excluded. No other exclusion criteria were applied. A total of 86% of participants completed follow-up.

Exposure

Lifetime history of epilepsy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was new-onset CVEs over 6 years. Secondary outcomes were new-onset strokes, TIAs, and MIs. Logistic models were fitted for these outcomes as a function of epilepsy, age, sex, household income, and education level. Mediation analyses were conducted for strong EIASM use, weak EIASM use, Framingham score, Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) score, and waist to hip ratio.

Results

Among the 30 097 individuals in the comprehensive cohort, a total of 27 230 individuals (mean [SD] age, 62.3 [10.1] years; 14 268 female [52.4%]) were included, 431 with a lifetime history of epilepsy. New-onset CVEs were more likely in epilepsy, with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.20 (95% CI, 1.48-3.27). The proportion of the effect of epilepsy on new-onset CVEs was mediated as follows by each of the following variables: strong EIASM use, 24.6% (95% CI, 6.5%-54.6%), weak EIASM use, 4.0% (95% CI, 0.8%-11.0%), Framingham score, 1.4% (95% CI, −1.6% to 4.5%), PASE score, 3.3% (95% CI, 1.4%-6.8%), and waist to hip ratio, 1.6% (95% CI, 0.4%-3.7%).

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this cohort study reveal that epilepsy was associated with new-onset CVEs. Nearly one-third of this association can be explained by EIASMs. These findings should be considered when choosing an antiseizure medication for a person at risk for cardiovascular disease.
Biogenesis of mitochondrial β‐barrel membrane proteins
Authors: Ganesan Iniyan , Busto Jon V. , Pfanner Nikolaus , Wiedemann Nils
Published: September 2024

β‐barrel membrane proteins in the mitochondrial outer membrane are crucial for mediating the metabolite exchange between the cytosol and the mitochondrial intermembrane space. In addition, the β‐barrel membrane protein subunit Tom40 of the translocase of the outer membrane (TOM) is essential for the import of the vast majority of mitochondrial proteins encoded in the nucleus. The sorting and assembly machinery (SAM) in the outer membrane is required for the membrane insertion of mitochondrial β‐barrel proteins. The core subunit Sam50, which has been conserved from bacteria to humans, is itself a β‐barrel protein. The β‐strands of β‐barrel precursor proteins are assembled at the Sam50 lateral gate forming a Sam50‐preprotein hybrid barrel. The assembled precursor β‐barrel is finally released into the outer mitochondrial membrane by displacement of the nascent β‐barrel, termed the β‐barrel switching mechanism. SAM forms supercomplexes with TOM and forms a mitochondrial outer‐to‐inner membrane contact site with the mitochondrial contact site and cristae organizing system (MICOS) of the inner membrane. SAM shares subunits with the ER‐mitochondria encounter structure (ERMES), which forms a membrane contact site between the mitochondrial outer membrane and the endoplasmic reticulum. Therefore, β‐barrel membrane protein biogenesis is closely connected to general mitochondrial protein and lipid biogenesis and plays a central role in mitochondrial maintenance.
Tribological Behavior of 316L Stainless Steel Fabricated Using Metal Extrusion Additive Manufacturing Under Dry and Simulated Body Fluid‐Lubricated Conditions
Authors: Zhou Shujun , Yang Yilun , Zhu Jun , Wanyan Sichuang , Su Kang , Ma Feng , Cheng Jie , Huang Xiao
Published: September 2024

Herein, the tribological behavior of 316L stainless steel (SS) fabricated using metal extrusion additive manufacturing (MEAM) is investigated both under dry and simulated body fluid (SBF)‐lubricated conditions. The results and mechanisms are compared with those of 316L SS fabricated via selective laser melting (SLM) and hot rolling (HR). Under dry‐friction conditions, the 316L SS fabricated via MEAM shows inferior tribological performance compared with those fabricated via SLM and HR, primarily because of its lower initial hardness and better plasticity, which increase both abrasive and adhesive wear. Under SBF‐lubricated conditions, the tribological performance of the 316L SS fabricated via MEAM is comparable to that fabricated via HR and superior to that fabricated via SLM. The wear rate of the MEAM‐fabricated 316L SS is 16.8% and 3.2% lower than SLM‐ and HR‐fabricated, respectively. The numerous pores on 316L SS serve as traps for wear particles, which contribute to the reduction of three‐body wear. In terms of wear under SBF‐lubricated conditions, MEAM technology appears to be a promising method for the fabrication of customized 316L orthopedic implants.
Solvent‐Induced Dynamic Bond Regulation for Constructing Adaptive Lubricating Hydrogels with Switchable Tribological Performance and Environmental Adaptability
Authors: Yang Houji , Tan Lingling , Yan Jie , Chen Jianshan , Wu Xianzhang , Yang Shengrong
Published: September 2024

Adaptive lubricating hydrogels (ALH) show promise for reducing friction and energy consumption in various industrial applications. However, retarded switchable tribological performance and poor environmental adaptability limit their integration into application devices. Herein, a dynamic bond regulating strategy based on solvent conversion for producing an ALH with highly switchable tribological performance and decent environmental tolerance is proposed. By incorporating dynamic B─O bonds into the sodium alginate (SA) framework, these bonds transition between associative and dissociative states, facilitated by solvent conversion between glycerol and ethanol. This process modulates the mechanical modulus of the SA network, allowing for achieving highly switchable tribological performance. Furthermore, the inclusion of glycerol not only as a modulus regulator but also serves as an antifreeze component to impart the ALH with superior antifreeze and heat resistance properties, thus allowing the ALH to demonstrate excellent environmental adaptability. As a result, the resulting ALH exhibits highly switchable lubrication behavior, with a dynamically adjustable coefficient of friction (COF) between 0.022 and 0.157, and maintains consistent lubrication performance under a harsh environment (−40–60 °C), representing the state‐of‐the‐art in reported ALHs. This advancement allows for the development of intelligent brake devices (IBD), demonstrating potential applications in controlling drone speed.
Multi‐Level Wettability Patterned Porous Matrix for Advanced Optical Information Encryption
Authors: Ryu Min , Yoon Jongsun , Chae Minji , Chun Hyun Joon , Lee Hyomin
Published: September 2024

In the rapidly evolving landscape of information security, the demand for optical encryption techniques based on wettability patterning, which allows decryption without sophisticated devices and complex procedures, is progressively increasing. However, conventional approaches based on binary wettability patterned surfaces impose significant constraints in their practical use for high‐level information security. Herein, a novel approach to optically encrypt information through multi‐level wettability patterning is introduced on a porous polymer matrix synthesized from vinyl methacrylate (VMA) and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA). By employing the thiol‐ene click reaction, precise patterning of functional groups is achieved that exhibit distinct wettability responses to aqueous solutions with varying surface tensions, as well as pH‐responsive and fluorescent markers. This multi‐level wettability system surpasses traditional binary hydrophilic/hydrophobic patterns by providing enhanced control over wettability states, resulting in higher‐level encryption of information. The integration of pH and fluorescence responsivity further elevates the complexity and security of the encrypted information, making it decipherable only under specific and controlled conditions. The innovative approach offers a highly secure, robust, and customizable encryption method, redefining the potential of optical encryption technologies.
Atomically Permeated MoP‐WOx Core‐Shell Catalysts for Efficient and Selective Oxidation of Thiophenic Sulfides in Fuels via Direct Electron Transfer Mechanism
Authors: Zou Juncong , Li Xiang , He Shanying , Niu Qiuya , Wu Shaohua , Yang Chunping
Published: September 2024

Heterogeneous interfaces designed rationally in catalysts can induce geometrical, compositional, and electronic effects that can be applied to modulate catalytically active sites and consequently accelerate reaction kinetics. Here, a core‐shell heterostructure catalyst consisting of crystalline molybdenum phosphide (MoP) cores and amorphous tungsten oxide (WOx) shells on porous carbon nanosheets (PCN) is developed for oxidative desulfurization (ODS) of fuels. The strongly coupled core‐shell heterogeneous interface triggers a distinctive atomic permeation effect that induces substantial electron transfer from MoP to WOx and subsequent generation of electron‐rich W sites, consequently optimizing the adsorption of intermediates and substrates. The resulting catalyst (WOx@MoP/PCN) demonstrates a turnover frequency as high as 768.1 h−1 for ODS at 60 °C, exceeding that of almost all the state‐of‐the‐art ODS catalysts by 1–2 orders of magnitude. Moreover, a novel surface oxidation pathway based on direct electron transfer is identified in the WOx@MoP/PCN‐H2O2 system, which bypasses the formation of reactive oxygen species, consequently endowing the system with a moderate redox potential. Thus, WOx@MoP/PCN exhibits unprecedented selectivity, achieving 100% removal of thiophenic sulfides from real diesel with minimal consumption of oxidant.
pH and ROS Dual‐Responsive Autocatalytic Release System Potentiates Immunotherapy of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Su Qianyi , Wang Zhenyu , Li Peishan , Wei Xin , Xiao Jisheng , Duan Xiaopin
Published: September 2024

The immunosuppressive microenvironment severely limits the responsiveness of colorectal cancer (CRC) to immunotherapy. Herein, a pH and reactive oxygen species (ROS) dual‐responsive autocatalytic release system (TPDM/PGA) is constructed to reverse the immunosuppressive microenvironment and potentiate CRC immunotherapy. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) and mitoxantrone (MTO) are conjugated to ROS‐responsive polyethylenimine (TP) via a ROS‐cleavable linker, respectively, and then coated with polyglutamic acid (PGA) to endow pH and ROS dual‐responsiveness. The dissociation of PGA within the acidic TME facilitates its deep penetration and cell internalization, while the intracellular released DHA and MTO in response to high levels of H2O2 further produced a large amount of ROS, forming positive feedback to accelerate drug release and exacerbate oxidative stress. TPDM/PGA collaboratively reversed the immunosuppressive microenvironment and induced a strong anti‐tumor immune response when combined with anti‐PD‐L1 antibody, significantly inhibiting tumor growth and prolonging the survival time of CT26 and MC38 tumor‐bearing mice. The excellent therapeutic effect, together with the good tolerance, make TPDM/PGA a promising candidate for enhanced immunotherapy of colorectal cancer.
Chemical Vapor Deposited Thin Palladium Sulfide Crystals for Highly Photoresponsive Photodetector
Authors: Jiang Shaolong , Zhao Erding , Zhang Xi , Yang Jin , Liu Qian , Liu Jiageng , Lang Yu‐Fei , Yang Qishuo , Zhou Bojian , Zhao Yu‐Qing , Sun Yilin , Su Fuhai , Hou Fuchen , Yang Guang
Published: September 2024

Nonlayered palladium sulfide (PdS) is of interest due to its rich physical properties and promising applications in optoelectronic devices. However, the growth of thin nonlayered PdS remains challenging because of its intrinsic 3D lattice structure. Here, the first demonstration of the direct synthesis of thin rectangular PdS ribbons/flakes on SiO2/Si substrates by a facile chemical vapor deposition (CVD) approach is presented. The atomic structure and high crystalline quality of CVD‐derived PdS crystals are shown by scanning transmission electron microscopy. The nonlinear saturable absorption and absorption enhancement are revealed by using ultrafast optical pump‐probe spectroscopy, and the photocarrier dynamics present the hot phonon bottleneck and Auger recombination effects. Additionally, the Raman vibration modes display the polarization‐dependent properties verified by angle‐resolved polarized Raman spectroscopy. Importantly, the photodetector based on PdS ribbon demonstrates a decent photoresponsivity of ≈7.7 × 103 A W−1. These results provide an effective way to form thin nonlayered PdS with potential applications in the field of photodetection.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Performance Enhancement of Li2MnSiO4 Cathode Material for Lithium‐Ion Batteries via Mn‐Site Ni Doping
Authors: Guo Jing , Yan Xin , Yao Yuqi , Luo Shao‐hua
Published: September 2024

In exploring the potential of Li2MnSiO4 as a cathode material for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), the key challenges often involve enhancing electronic conductivity and lithium‐ion diffusion rates. To address these issues, this paper proposes the combination of solid‐state doping and a two‐step calcination process to successfully prepare the Li2Mn1−xNixSiO4 series of cathode materials, where Ni substitutes Mn at different doping amounts (x = 0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08). The use of chemically equivalent Ni2+ ions to replace Mn2+ ions is an effective method. Since the ionic radius of Ni2+ is smaller than that of Mn2+, this substitution can create more voids in the lattice structure. These increased voids provide smoother channels for the transport of electrons and lithium ions, thereby improving the material's electrical conductivity. At a Ni doping amount of 0.06, the material exhibits optimal electrochemical performance, achieving a discharge capacity of 155 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, significantly superior to undoped lithium manganese silicate. The doping of Mn sites with Ni significantly improves the conductivity and lithium‐ion diffusion capabilities of Li2MnSiO4, revealing the tremendous potential of doping strategies in optimizing the performance of LIBs cathode materials.
Fully Implantable Wireless Cardiac Pacing and Sensing System Integrated with Hydrogel Electrodes
Authors: Chang Zhiqiang , Wang Bingfang , Ren Qinjuan , Nie Jianfang , Guo Bihan , Lu Yuhan , Lu Xinxin , Zhang Ya , Ji Daizong , Lv Yingying , Rotenberg Menahem Y. , Fang Yin
Published: September 2024

Cardiac pacemakers play a crucial role in arrhythmia treatment. Existing devices typically rely on rigid electrode components, leading to potential issues such as heart damage and detachment during prolonged cardiac motion due to the mechanical mismatch with cardiac tissue. Additionally, traditional pacemakers, with their batteries and percutaneous leads, introduce infection risks and limit freedom of movement. A wireless, battery‐free multifunctional bioelectronic device for cardiac pacing is developed. This device integrates highly conductive (160 S m−1), flexible (Young's modulus of 80 kPa is similar to that of mammalian heart tissue), and stretchable (270%) soft hydrogel electrodes, providing high signal‐to‐noise ratio (≈28 dB) electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings and effective pacing of the beating heart. The versatile device detects physiological and biochemical signals in the cardiac environment and allows for adjustable pacing in vivo studies. Remarkably, it maintained recording and pacing capabilities 31 days post‐implantation in rats. Additionally, the wireless bioelectronic device can be fully implanted in rabbits for pacing. By addressing a major shortcoming of conventional pacemakers, this device paves the way for implantable flexible bioelectronics, which offers promising opportunities for advanced cardiac therapies.
Bimetal Metaphosphate/Molybdenum Oxide Heterostructure Nanowires for Boosting Overall Freshwater/Seawater Splitting at High Current Densities
Authors: Wang Pan , Wang Pai , Wu Tongwei , Sun Xuping , Zhang Yanning
Published: September 2024

Exploring excellent non‐noble bifunctional electrocatalysts for freshwater/seawater splitting at high current densities has attracted extensive interest owing to strong anodic oxidation and severe chloride corrosion challenges. Herein, hierarchical bimetal Ni‐Co metaphosphate/molybdenum oxide heterostructure nanowires (NiCoMoPO) are rationally designed and fabricated to efficiently boost oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline freshwater/seawater, where the favorable electronic structure from heterostructures, signified by X‐ray absorption spectra, endows NiCoMoPO with the enhanced intrinsic activity, while its hierarchical nanowire structure and heterostructures provide abundant active sites. Additionally, the PO3− improves the chloride‐corrosion resistance and efficiently facilitates the OER kinetics verified by theoretical and experimental studies. Therefore, NiCoMoPO drives 1000 mA cm−2 at low overpotentials of 467 and 442 mV for OER and HER in alkaline freshwater respectively, as well as a small cell voltage of 2.135 V for overall freshwater splitting with robust durability of 300 h. Impressively, due to the strong corrosion resistance, at 500 mA cm−2 of overall seawater splitting, NiCoMoPO maintains almost 2.096 V for 1200 h, indicating promising practical applications. This work sheds light on the rational design and fabrication of outstanding electrocatalysts at high current densities of seawater/freshwater splitting.
Combine harvester outsourcing services and seasonal rural non‐farm employment in Myanmar
Authors: Belton Ben , Fang Peixun , Reardon Thomas
Published: September 2024

Prior research on mechanization outsource services has not explored seasonal variations in drivers and outcomes of adoption by smallholders. These omissions are important because seasonality of crop cultivation may influence intensity of demand for machines, while seasonality of demand for non‐farm labor may influence the availability and cost of agricultural workers and the opportunity costs of on‐farm self‐employment. We analyze seasonal correlates of combine harvester outsource service use in Myanmar. Surprisingly, adoption is not associated with lower labor costs or higher net margins from paddy cultivation. Rather, using combines releases family labor into more remunerative dry season non‐farm employment.
Enhancing Robot End‐Effector Trajectory Tracking Using Virtual Force‐Tracking Impedance Control
Authors: Khan Hamza , Lee Min Cheol , Suh Jeong , Kim Ryoonhan
Published: September 2024

This article presents an extended Cartesian space robot control framework that features a virtual force tracking impedance control to enhance the end‐effector trajectory tracking performance. Initially, the concept of a virtual surface is introduced, which is assumed to be at some constant distance from the desired end‐effector trajectory. This virtual surface generates a virtual contact force when interacting with the torque‐controlled robot end‐effector. The interaction is then manipulated using an impedance control model to track a constant desired force. If the robot end‐effector deviates from the desired trajectory, the constant force‐tracking impedance control generates a compliance trajectory that regulates the end‐effector movements, constraining it to the desired trajectory. For robust force tracking, impedance parameters are optimally tuned using a closed‐loop dynamic model incorporating both robot and impedance dynamics. Additionally, super twisting sliding mode control (STSMC) is integrated to overcome uncertainties and the impact of robot dynamics on force‐tracking performance. Experimental validation confirms the theoretical claims of the proposed approach. It demonstrates that force‐tracking impedance control improves the end‐effector trajectory tracking by quickly reacting to the dynamic trajectories compared to position control only and effectively maintains it on the desired trajectories.
A Review on Recent Trends of Bioinspired Soft Robotics: Actuators, Control Methods, Materials Selection, Sensors, Challenges, and Future Prospects
Authors: Sarker Abhirup , Ul Islam Tamzid , Islam Md. Robiul
Published: September 2024

Bioinspired soft robotics is an emerging field that aims to develop flexible and adaptive robots inspired by the movement and capabilities of biological organisms. This review article examines recent advances in materials, actuation mechanisms, sensors, and control strategies and discusses the challenges and future prospects of bioinspired soft robotics. Key innovations highlighted include pneumatic, elastomer actuators, variable‐length shape memory alloy tendons, closed‐loop control with soft sensors, and the incorporation of soft materials including shape memory polymers and conductive composites. Challenges in soft robotics such as achieving complex motion control, incorporating feedback systems, modeling soft material dynamics, and replicating biological muscle efficiency with artificial muscles are also discussed. Promising future directions are explored including the integration of biodegradable materials, machine learning‐based control algorithms, and leveraging data‐driven techniques for modeling and control. Building on progress in multi‐functional materials, manufacturing techniques, and bioinspired design principles, soft robots hold considerable promise for expanding robot capabilities, enhancing versatility and adaptability, enabling applications from wearable assistive devices to search and rescue operations. This review provides a holistic perspective encompassing key drivers propelling innovations in the vibrant field of bioinspired soft robotics.
Patient‐Mounted Neuro Optical Coherence Tomography for Targeted Minimally Invasive Micro‐Resolution Volumetric Imaging in Brain In Vivo
Authors: Xu Chao , Fang Zhiwei , Gao Huxin , Zhang Tinghua , Zhang Tao , Liu Peng , Ren Hongliang , Yuan Wu
Published: September 2024

Targeted neuroimaging plays a vital role in evaluating pathologies and guiding interventions in deep brain regions, such as biopsy, laser ablation, and deep brain stimulation. However, current neuroimaging techniques face several challenges when it comes to imaging the deep brain. These challenges include limited imaging depth, a narrow field of view, low resolution, and a lack of real‐time imaging and stereotactic deployment capabilities. To address these challenges, a patient‐mounted neuro optical coherence tomography (neuroOCT) system that combines a lightweight 5 degrees‐of‐freedom skull‐mounted robot (Skullbot) with a neuroendoscope measuring ≈0.6 mm in diameter is introduced. This innovative system enables targeted and minimally invasive neuroimaging with an axial resolution of ≈2.4 μm and a transverse resolution of around 4.5 μm. The Skullbot can be securely attached to the head and precisely deploys the neuroendoscope with an accuracy of ±1.5 mm in the transverse direction and ±0.25 mm in the longitudinal direction. This allows for motion‐insensitive stereotactic imaging within the brain. By utilizing the neuroOCT system, targeted imaging of a tumor in a brain phantom is successfully demonstrated. Furthermore, the system's capability for in vivo micro‐resolution volumetric neuroimaging of fine structures within a mouse brain is validated.
Mortality among Swedish seafarers 1985–2013
Authors: Eriksson Helena P. , Wallin Maria , Andersson Eva
Published: September 2024

Aim

The aim was to investigate mortality among Swedish seafarers compared to the general population, and differences in mortality between occupational categories and differences over time.

Methods

Longitudinal register‐based cohort study of 85,169 Swedish seafarers registered in the Swedish Transport Agency's Seafarers’ Registry (SR) 1985–2013. The cohort was matched with the Swedish Cause of Death Register. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated stratified by gender, job category, start of sea service, and time registered in the SR. Seafarers were followed until 66 years of age. Mortality by diseases was analyzed for seafarers with at least 5 years of sea service and mortality due to external causes was analyzed for all seafarers.

Results

Total mortality was increased among men who started to work before 1985 (SMR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.21–1.32) and borderline significantly increased among women (SMR: 1.14, 95% CI: 0.99–1.32). Mortality ratios due to lung cancer, accidents, suicides, and mental disorders including substance abuse, were increased among seafarers who started to work before 1985. Mortality risks were particularly increased among the crew. SMRs tended to decrease over time, but mortality due to accidents was still increased among the crew who started to work 1985 or later (SMR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.02–2.63).

Conclusion

Swedish seafarers had an increased mortality compared to the general population in 1985–2013, particularly the crew. There is still an increased mortality in accidents among crew who started to work 1985 or later.
Effect of cold beverages on whole‐body heat exchange in young and older males during intermittent exercise in the heat
Authors: Richards Brodie J. , O'Connor Fergus K. , Koetje Nicholas J. , Janetos Kristina‐Marie T. , McGarr Gregory W. , Kenny Glen P.
Published: September 2024

Background

To mitigate health risks associated with occupational heat stress, workers are advised to adhere to a work‐rest regimen, and hydrate regularly. However, it remains unclear if beverage temperature influences whole‐body heat exchange during work‐rest cycles, and if responses differ in older workers who have a blunted heat loss capacity.

Methods

Ten young (mean [SD]: 22 [3] years) and 10 older (60 [4] years) males performed four 15‐min bouts of moderate‐intensity cycling at a fixed rate of metabolic heat production (200 W·m−2), each interspersed by 15‐min rest in dry heat (40°C, ~12% relative humidity). On separate days, participants consumed either ice‐slurry (~0°C), standardized to provide a heat transfer capacity of 75 kJ·m−2, or an identical mass of warm fluid (37.5°C) before the first and third exercise bouts. Evaporative and dry heat exchange (direct calorimetry) and metabolic heat production (indirect calorimetry) were measured continuously to determine cumulative heat storage (summation of heat loss and heat gain) over the entire protocol. Rectal temperature was also measured continuously.

Results

Relative to warm fluid, ice‐slurry ingestion reduced cumulative heat storage in young (69 [181] vs. 216 [94] kJ) and older males (90 [104] vs. 254 [140] kJ, main effect: p < 0.01), but was unaffected by age (p = 0.49). However, rectal temperature was unaffected by beverage temperature in both groups (all p ≥ 0.15).

Conclusion

We show that cold fluid ingestion is an appropriate administrative control for both young and older males as it can mitigate increases in body heat content during moderate‐intensity work‐rest cycles in dry heat.