bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into Supplements with Tribulus Terrestris used by Athletes
Authors: Pokrywka Andrzej , Obmiński Zbigniew , Malczewska-Lenczowska Jadwiga , Fijatek Zbigniew , Turek-Lepa Ewa , Grucza Ryszard
Published: July 2014

Herbal and nutritional supplements are more and more popular in the western population. One of them is an extract of an exotic plant, named Tribulus terrestris (TT). TT is a component of several supplements that are available over-the-counter and widely recommended, generally as enhancers of human vitality. TT is touted as a testosterone booster and remedy for impaired erectile function; therefore, it is targeted at physically active men, including male athletes. Based on the scientific literature describing the results of clinical trials, this review attempted to verify information on marketing TT with particular reference to the needs of athletes. It was found that there are few reliable data on the usefulness of TT in competitive sport. In humans, a TT extract used alone without additional components does not improve androgenic status or physical performance among athletes. The results of a few studies have showed that the combination of TT with other pharmacological components increases testosterone levels, but it was not discovered which components of the mixture contributed to that effect. TT contains several organic compounds including alkaloids and steroidal glycosides, of which pharmacological action in humans is not completely explained. One anti-doping study reported an incident with a TT supplement contaminated by a banned steroid. Toxicological studies regarding TT have been carried out on animals only, however, one accidental poisoning of a man was described. The Australian Institute of Sport does not recommend athletes’ usage of TT. So far, the published data concerning TT do not provide strong evidence for either usefulness or safe usage in sport.
Prediction of Rowing Ergometer Performance from Functional Anaerobic Power, Strength and Anthropometric Components
Authors: Akça Firat
Published: July 2014

The aim of this research was to develop different regression models to predict 2000 m rowing ergometer performance with the use of anthropometric, anaerobic and strength variables and to determine how precisely the prediction models constituted by different variables predict performance, when conducted together in the same equation or individually. 38 male collegiate rowers (20.17 ± 1.22 years) participated in this study. Anthropometric, strength, 2000 m maximal rowing ergometer and rowing anaerobic power tests were applied. Multiple linear regression procedures were employed in SPSS 16 to constitute five different regression formulas using a different group of variables. The reliability of the regression models was expressed by R2 and the standard error of estimate (SEE). Relationships of all parameters with performance were investigated through Pearson correlation coefficients. The prediction model using a combination of anaerobic, strength and anthropometric variables was found to be the most reliable equation to predict 2000 m rowing ergometer performance (R2 = 0.92, SEE= 3.11 s). Besides, the equation that used rowing anaerobic and strength test results also provided a reliable prediction (R2 = 0.85, SEE= 4.27 s). As a conclusion, it seems clear that physiological determinants which are affected by anaerobic energy pathways should also get involved in the processes and models used for performance prediction and talent identification in rowing.
Biological control of Polymyxa betae, fungal vector of rhizomania disease of sugar beets in greenhouse conditions
Authors: Naraghi Laleh , Heydari Asghar , Askari Hassan , Pourrahim Reza , Marzban Rasoul
Published: July 2014

Rhizomania is one of the most important diseases of sugar beet around the world – including in Iran. The disease causes a severe decrease in sugar yield and is a limiting factor in sugar beet cultivation. Control of the disease is very difficult due to the long-term survival of its fungal vector (Polymyxa betae) in the soil. In this study, we investigated the effects of antagonistic fungal isolates on the population of the resting structure (cystosorus) of P. betae, under greenhouse conditions. Antagonistic fungi, including Trichoderma harzianum and Talaromyces flavus, were isolated from soil samples collected from sugar beet infested fields in the Semnan Province of Iran. In the next step, their inocula were prepared through reproduction on rice bran. For evaluation of the efficacy of antagonists in greenhouse conditions, a split plot trial was conducted and performed. The main factor was three different methods of application of T. flavus as the soil treatment, seed treatment, and a combination of both methods. The sub-factor was the use of different fungal isolates. To determine the cystosorus population of the fungal vector, seedling roots in all treatments were stained with lactic acid and fuchsine (lactofushine), 60 days after sowing. The number of cystosorus in one gram of root was counted using a light microscope and hemocytometer. At the end of the study, average root weight in different treatments was also measured to select and introduce the best treatments in regard to their effects on root weight. According to the results, the number of cystosorus in 1 g of root was different in various treatments and those treatments containing TF-Su-M-1, TF-Su-M-2, TH-Su-M-1, and TH-Su-M-2 used as a soil application method were more effective in the reduction of the cystosorus population and root weight increase. Among the above-mentioned treatments, maximum reduction of cystosori population and the increase in root weight were observed in TH-Su-M-1 and TF-Su-M-2 through the soil application method.
Educational Development of Muslim Minority: With Special Reference to Muslim Concentrated States of India
Authors: Narula Manju
Published: July 2014

In India the National Minority Commission has identified Muslims as minorities along with Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains on the basis of religion. Out of these religious minorities Muslims are the largest ones. In spite of being the largest minority they are lagging behind in education in comparison with other religious minorities. Literacy which is a first step to education is lowest of the Muslim minority and inter-state variation in their literacy rates is also very high. Also, their literacy rate in some of the states is abysmally low. In the light of these contexts, this paper presents a brief discussion of policies and programs implemented for the development of education of the Muslim minority. Thereafter, the paper tries to portray the progress of school education in terms of access, participation, retention of Muslim children in the Muslim concentrated states. The paper suggests that strategies for their educational development should be adopted according to the need of the state/district/area. Finally, the areas of intervention and challenges are discussed and appropriate measures are suggested to improve and promote the education of Muslims in India.
Sexual fantasy and masturbation among asexual individuals
Authors: Yule Morag A. , Brotto Lori A. , Gorzalka Boris B.
Published: July 2014

Human asexuality is defined as a lack of sexual attraction, and research suggests that it may be best conceptualized as a sexual orientation. Sexual fantasies are thought to be universally experienced and are often understood to represent true sexual desire more accurately than sexual behaviour. We investigated the relationship between asexuality, masturbation and sexual fantasy as part of a larger online study. Self-identified asexual individuals were compared to sexual individuals with and without low sexual desire. A total of 924 individuals (153 men, 533 women, and 238 individuals who did not respond to the query about sex) completed online questions asking about masturbation and sexual fantasy. Five hundred thirty four were classified in the asexual group, 87 met diagnostic criteria for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), 78 met criteria for subthreshold HSDD without distress, and 187 were a sexual comparison group (i.e., identified as sexual, and had no reported difficulties in sexual desire or distress). Asexual individuals were significantly less likely to have masturbated in the past month and significantly more likely to report never having had a sexual fantasy. Specifically, 40% of asexual participants reported never having had a sexual fantasy compared to between 1% and 8% of participants in the sexual groups. Eleven percent of asexual individuals reported that their sexual fantasies did not involve other people, compared to 1.5% of all sexual individuals. Taken together, these findings suggest that there are notable differences in patterns of sexual fantasy between asexual individuals and sexual individuals with and without low sexual desire.
Beyond the Marilisse and the Chestnut: Shattering Slavery’s Sexual Stereotypes in the Drama of Ina Césaire and Maryse Condé
Authors: Sahakian Emily
Published: July 2014

ABSTRACT:

In the French Caribbean, sexualized stereotypes have been imposed upon women’s bodies since the time of slavery. While the “Marilisse” stereotype figures Caribbean women as treacherous seductresses, the “Chestnut” makes them passive sufferers, who must accept infidelity and abuse from men. In this article, I argue that two plays by French Caribbean women writers juxtapose their main characters’ speech with their bodies to expose the contradictory ways in which the system of sexualized subjection inherited from the time of slavery continues to impact French Caribbean culture and literary production. Dramatizing four women’s everyday experiences during a major anticolonial revolt in 1870 in Martinique, Ina Césaire’s Fire’s Daughters [Rosanie Soleil] subverts the stereotype of the Chestnut by carving out new roles for revolutionary women. With the use of irony, Maryse Condé’s The Tropical Breeze Hotel [Pension les Alizés] exposes how the stereotype of the Marilisse ensnares a Guadeloupean woman living in Paris in the 1980s. In their final scenes, Césaire and Condé deploy vodou ritual and ironic alienation, respectively, to recast the female body of slavery’s legacy, refiguring Caribbean female experience through performance.
Evaluation of Truck Impact Hazards for Interstate Overpasses
Authors: Qin Xiao , Shen Zhao , Wehbe Nadim , Pei Shiling , He Zhaoxiang
Published: July 2014

Increased freight activities on Interstate highways escalate the risk of collision between trucks and overpass bridges. Although such events are rare, the consequences of such a collision may be catastrophic. Many overpass bridges were designed and constructed in the early years of development of the Interstate highway system and therefore did not meet the requirements specified in AASHTO's Load and Resistance Factor Design Bridge Design Specifications. In this study, 5-year truck run-off-the-road crash data, information on Interstate highway geometric characteristics, and traffic information were collected to develop crash prediction models for bridge bents. The bent-based predictive methods improved the collision risk estimate by evaluating the individual bents of a bridge on the basis of roadway geometrics and traffic conditions. The detour costs subsequently measured on the basis of the additional road user costs caused by the failure of a bridge were used to assess the importance of a bridge quantitatively. As a result of this study, a bridge index was developed from both the collision risk and detour costs. This study could provide guidance to departments of transportation to develop mitigation plans for bridges with high collision risk indexes.
Potential for Metering to Help Roundabouts Manage Peak Period Demands in the United States
Authors: Hummer Joseph E. , Milazzo Joseph S. , Schroeder Bastian , Salamati Katy
Published: July 2014

Roundabouts generally provide safety and other advantages. During peak hours, however, even moderate demands on an upstream approach can result in long delays and driver frustration over downstream movements. A metering signal is one way to ensure that all demands at a roundabout are adequately served. A roundabout metering signal regulates flow into the circle from one approach and thereby creates larger gaps in the circle for downstream entrants. Although metering signals have been used successfully around the world, little guidance is available for U.S. designers. The goal of this research was to provide U.S. designers with some guidance on the use of metering signals. The authors developed a simple macroscopic model based on the Highway Capacity Manual, validated it by using a simulation model, and performed exercises with it on a number of demand combinations to see where a meter might help. The macroscopic model should be helpful as a quick screening tool. The results from application of the model provide evidence that a meter may reduce delays compared with those seen in an unmetered roundabout with some demands. Although signalized intersections produced lower delays than did metered or unmetered roundabouts in most cases tested, roundabouts were sometimes better. Analysts should consider more than just peak period delays in deciding on the optimum traffic control at an intersection. If, with the aid of a metering signal for a few peak hours, a roundabout produces slightly higher delay levels during those peak hours than a standard traffic signal, with consideration of its many other benefits, a roundabout could well be the optimum design.
THE EFFECTS OF AUTOCATALYTIC TRADE CYCLES ON ECONOMIC GROWTH
Authors: Bakker Jurriën J. , Afonso Oscar , Silva Sandra T.
Published: July 2014

This paper shows that autocatalytic trade cycles can be a positive feedback system for innovation and thus for economic growth. Using United Nations data, a trade network is proposed and a set of variables that represent the participation of countries in autocatalytic trade cycles is constructed. A clear relationship between these variables and economic growth is found since more innovation is produced in countries that are part of trade cycles. However, the relationship changes with autocatalytic trade cycle sizes, categories of goods and time scales. Moreover, autocatalytic trade cycles also have a positive effect for the trade flows involved, although this effect differs significantly depending on the size of the cycles. This new approach based on autocatalytic trade cycles emphasizes the benefits that countries can extract from trade cycles and points out the need of policies that foster these benefits. These conclusions strengthen existing literature, and also add new insights to innovation policy and the pursuit of economic prosperity.
Choralnotationen der mittelalterlichen liturgischen Kodizes des 14. und 15. Jahrhunderts in slowakischen Archivbeständen
Authors: Veselovská Eva
Published: July 2014

In Slovakian archives there are 15 completely preserved medieval music manuscrips: five Bratislava antiphoners (the Bratislava Antiphoners I–IV, 15th century, written in the Messine-Gothic notation, the Bratislava Antiphoner V, 15th century, in the Bohemian notation); the Bratislava Missal I (Esztergom notation, 14th century); the Notated Missal Nr. 387 from the former Lycean Library in Bratislava (square notation, 13th century); the Carthusian Gradual-Psalter from Martin (square notation, 15th century); the Košice Psalter and theMissal from the East-Slovakian museum in Košice (Messine-Gothic notation, 14th–15th century); the Evangeliary from Nitra (ekphonetic signs, 12th century); two manuscripts from Prešov (Messine-Gothic notation, 14th century); two manuscripts from Spišska: the Gradual of Georgius of Kezmarok and the Antiphoner from Spišska (Messine-Gothic notation, 15th century).
Climacus v Breviarium notatum Strigoniense in gregorijanska modalnost
Authors: Snoj Jurij
Published: July 2014

V Breviarium notatum Strigoniense (kompiliranim konec 13. stol. v Esztergomu) se pojavljata dve obliki climacusa: običajno je prvi ton znaka zapisan z dvojnim punctumom, mestoma pa se pojavlja tudi oblika, kjer je prvi ton znaka podan le z enim punctumom. Oba znaka nastopata bodisi samostojno bodisi kot sestavina širših sestavljenih znakov. Climacus z dvojnim punctumom nastopa zlasti na ključnih tonih modusov; na teh tonih se pojavlja tudi climacus z enojnim punctumom, vendar ne tako izrazito. Iz tega je mogoče sklepati, da je prvi ton climacusa z dvojnim punctumom podaljšan oz. na neki način poudarjen, in da je med obema oblikama znaka rahel pomenski razloček. Vendar se zdi, da pisec pri razločevanje dveh oblik znaka ni bil dosleden; znak z dvojnim punctumom je uporabljal tudi za zapis običajnega postopa treh ali več tonov v smeri navzdol.
A neglected chapter on Handl's sources: readings from the Swedish manuscripts
Authors: Desmet Marc
Published: July 2014

Swedish libraries preserve an important amount of manuscript copies of Jacob Handl compositions. Specificities of the repertory are examined in this article, in relation with written evidence that Handl music had found its way already at an early date within the musical practice of Lutheran Church in Sweden.
Musical symbols in the turqueries in Slovenia: oriental artworks between reality and imagination
Authors: Koter Darja
Published: July 2014

The article discusses turqueries with musical symbols from the 17th and 18th century, preserved in Slovenia. The interpretation of artworks, such as Turkish dancer from Pokrajinski muzej Ptuj (Ptuj Regional Museum), the work of an unknown Styrian painter around 1682, and the two paintings by Johann Josef Karl Henrici Concert at the Oriental Court and Lute Concert, from around 1786, preserved in the Akademija za glasbo in Ljubljana (Academy of Music in Ljubljana), is based on current research pertaining to the history of art. Furthermore, the article provides some reflections on musical symbols, particularly on questions relating to the realistic depiction of musical instruments in accordance with historical musical practice.
Das Volkslied im schaffen der Slowakischen Komponisten zwischen 1830–1918
Authors: Lengová Jana
Published: July 2014

Folksong was an important phenomenon in the formation of Slovak national music in the nineteenth century and also became a new legitimate means of innovation that contributed to enriching the style of both functional and autonomous music. Folksongs were often harmonized and used in many artistic compositions. These adaptions partly served popular-education, cultural, and political aims on the one hand, and partly artistic and aesthetic aims on the other.
Jacob Handl - Gallus und das deutsche Lied
Authors: Motnik Marko
Published: July 2014

Thirteen compositions with German texts attributed to Jacob Handl are preserved in a number of music manuscripts and prints from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The transmission history, reception, compositional techniques, style, authorship and possible intended purposes of these hitherto little-noticed works will be discussed in the present article.
»Zahtevam konfiskacijo in uničenje že ekspediranih izvodov!«: Čerinova razprava o slovenskih protestantskih pesmaricah in zapleti okoli njene objave
Authors: Čakš Tonja
Published: July 2014

Objava prevoda doktorske disertacije Josipa Čerina o slovenskih protestantskih pesmih v Trubarjevem zborniku leta 1908 je povzročila hudo avtorjevo kritiko. Žal je doktorska naloga izgubljena, vendar je v ohranjeni dokumentaciji, predvsem korespondenci in avtorsko popravljenem izvodu natisa, veliko ključnih podatkov v zvezi s sporom med Čerinom in uredništvom Slovenske matice.
The Ethics of Seeking Body Perfection, with Continual Reference to Heidi Montag
Authors: Lunceford Brett
Published: July 2014

In an increasingly visual society, beauty may seem only skin deep. This chapter considers the ethics of cosmetic surgery through the lens of posthumanism, a stance that suggests that defects of the body can be overcome through technology. Cosmetic surgery, with its reliance on prostheses and promise of reshaping the body, is, at its heart, a posthuman enterprise. Although many have engaged in cosmetic surgery, actress Heidi Montag became an exemplar of reshaping the body by undergoing ten different plastic surgery procedures in one day. Using Montag as foil, this chapter examines four ethical dimensions of cosmetic surgery: the ethics of the medical professionals who perform and advertise these procedures, the ethics of the individual making the decision, the ethics of the media structures that promote a homogenous ideal of beauty, and the ethics of those who tacitly approve of such procedures.
On hyperbolicity of free splitting and free factor complexes
Authors: Kapovich Ilya , Rafi Kasra
Published: July 2014

We show how to derive hyperbolicity of the free factor complex of

F_N

from the Handel–Mosher proof of hyperbolicity of the free splitting complex of

F_N

, thus obtaining an alternative proof of a theorem of Bestvina–Feighn. We also show that under the natural map

\tau

from the free splitting complex to free factor complex, a geodesic

[x,y]

maps to a path that is uniformly Hausdorff-close to a geodesic

[\tau(x),\tau(y)]

.
Optimal higher-dimensional Dehn functions for some CAT(0) lattices
Authors: Leuzinger Enrico
Published: July 2014

Let

X=S\times E \times B

be the metric product of a symmetric space

S

of noncompact type, a Euclidean space

E

and a product

B

of Euclidean buildings. Let

\Gamma

be a discrete group acting isometrically and cocompactly on

X

. We determine a family of quasi-isometry invariants for such

\Gamma

, namely the

k

-dimensional Dehn functions, which measure the difficulty to fill

k

-spheres by

(k+1)

-balls (for

1\leq k\leq \dim\ X-1

). Since the group

\Gamma

is quasi-isometric to the associated CAT(0) space

X

, assertions about Dehn functions for

\Gamma

are equivalent to the corresponding results on filling functions for

X

. Basic examples of groups

\Gamma

as above are uniform

S

-arithmetic subgroups of reductive groups defined over global fields. We also discuss a (mostly) conjectural picture for non-uniform

S

-arithmetic groups.
Transversality of isotropic projections, unrectifiability, and Heisenberg groups
Authors: Hovila Risto
Published: July 2014

We show that the family of

m

-dimensional isotropic projections in

\mathbb{R}^{2n}

is transversal. As an application we show that the Besicovitch–Federer projection theorem holds for isotropic projections. We also use transversality to obtain almost sure estimates on the Hausdorff dimension of isotropic projections of subsets

E \subset \mathbb{R}^{2n}

. These results may also be applied to gain information on the horizontal projections of the Heisenberg group

\mathbb{H}^n

.
The Riesz transform for homogeneous Schrödinger operators on metric cones
Authors: Hassell Andrew , Lin Peijie
Published: July 2014

We consider Schrödinger operators on a metric cone whose cross section is a closed Riemannian manifold

(Y, h)

of dimension

d-1 \geq 2

. Thus the metric on the cone

M = (0, \infty)_r \times Y

is

dr^2 + r^2 h

. Let

\Delta

be the Friedrichs Laplacian on

M

and let

V_0

be a smooth function on

Y

such that

\Delta_Y + V_0 + (d-2)^2/4

is a strictly positive operator on

L^2(Y)

with lowest eigenvalue

\mu^2_0

and second lowest eigenvalue

\mu^2_1

, with

\mu_0, \mu_1 > 0

. The operator we consider is

H = \Delta + V_0/r^2

, a Schrödinger operator with inverse square potential on

M

; notice that

H

is homogeneous of degree

-2

. We study the Riesz transform

T = \nabla H^{-1/2}

and determine the precise range of

p

for which

T

is bounded on

L^p(M)

. This is achieved by making a precise analysis of the operator

(H + 1)^{-1}

and determining the complete asymptotics of its integral kernel. We prove that if

V

is not identically zero, then the range of

p

for

L^p

boundedness is

\Big(\frac{d}{\min(1+{d}/{2}+\mu_0, d)} , \frac{d}{\max({d}/{2}-\mu_0, 0)}\Big),

while if

V

is identically zero, then the range is

\Big(1 \frac{d}{\max({d}/{2}-\mu_1, 0)}\Big).

The result in the case of an identically zero

V

was first obtained in a paper by H.-Q. Li [33].
Hitting times for the stochastic wave equation with fractional colored noise
Authors: Clarke de la Cerda Jorge , Tudor Ciprian A.
Published: July 2014

We give sharp regularity results for the solution to the stochastic wave equation with linear fractional-colored noise. We apply these results in order to establish upper and lower bounds for the hitting probabilities of the solution in terms of the Hausdorff measure and the Newtonian capacity.
New Rules Requiring Accessible Medical Diagnostic Equipment—Updates to Section 504 Disability Civil Rights Regulations
Authors: Iezzoni Lisa I. , Stein Michael Ashley
Published: August 2024

This Viewpoint reviews the history of mandates governing access to medical diagnostic equipment in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and reviews the new rules.
MRI-Linac–Based Radiotherapy—Promising or Hype?
Authors: Roach Mack , Ling Stella , Coleman Pamela W.
Published: August 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the value of magnetic resonance imaging with linear accelerator (MRI-linac) technology, given the unmet needs in its development.
Acute Bilateral Periorbital Edema in a Psychiatric Patient
Authors: Acuff Kaela N. , Villatoro George A. , Baxter Sally L.
Published: August 2024

An older patient with history of alcohol use disorder was admitted for altered mental status and received valproic acid and olanzapine from the psychiatric service. On hospital day 2, the patient acutely developed bilateral periorbital edema. What would you do next?
Synthesis of Phenols from Benzoic Acids
Authors: Xiong Wenzhang , Wang Rui , Liu Zhengqiang , Peng Feng , Zhao Ralph , Liu* Wenbo H.
Published: August 2024

This chapter presents the procedure for synthesis of phenols from benzoic acids. Phenols are the critical structure unit in many natural products and pharmaceutical molecules. Moreover, they are the essential intermediates to produce a series of complicated skeletons in organic synthesis. Among many conversions based on carboxylic acids, the decarboxylative reaction of benzoic acid with the extrusion of CO
2
has aroused continuous interest from organic chemists, but in most circumstances, high temperatures and transition metals are required to satisfy the reactivity. Herein, a simple and practical method to turn benzoic acid into phenol is demonstrated. This method does not require light sources and transition metal assistance, which can be performed at room temperature. In addition, this method shows good tolerance to various functional groups, which can effectively convert various substituted benzoic acids into the corresponding phenols.
Recent Progress in Sr2Fe1.5Mo0.5O6‐δ‐Based Multifunctional Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage
Authors: Sun Hainan , Xu Xiaomin , Song Yufei , Shao Zongping
Published: August 2024

Perovskite oxides, particularly double perovskite oxides, have drawn significant research interest within the fields of solid‐state chemistry and materials science. As a quintessential double perovskite oxide, Sr2Fe1.5Mo0.5O6‐δ (SFM) has unique electronic, magnetic, and catalytic properties. These attributes make it a promising candidate for energy conversion and storage applications. This review offers a comprehensive overview of advancements using SFM across various applications, including solid oxide cells, protonic ceramic cells, and electrocatalysis. Notably, the review highlights emerging optimization strategies that enhance functionality based on a fundamental understanding of the reaction mechanisms. The review concludes by discussing the persistent challenges facing SFM‐based functional materials, as well as their prospects, considering both fundamental research and industrial applications.
Hydrogel‐Based Artificial Synapses for Sustainable Neuromorphic Electronics
Authors: Yan Jiongyi , Armstrong James P. K. , Scarpa Fabrizio , Perriman Adam W.
Published: August 2024

Hydrogels find widespread applications in biomedicine because of their outstanding biocompatibility, biodegradability, and tunable material properties. Hydrogels can be chemically functionalized or reinforced to respond to physical or chemical stimulation, which opens up new possibilities in the emerging field of intelligent bioelectronics. Here, the state‐of‐the‐art in functional hydrogel‐based transistors and memristors is reviewed as potential artificial synapses. Within these systems, hydrogels can serve as semisolid dielectric electrolytes in transistors and as switching layers in memristors. These synaptic devices with volatile and non‐volatile resistive switching show good adaptability to external stimuli for short‐term and long‐term synaptic memory effects, some of which are integrated into synaptic arrays as artificial neurons; although, there are discrepancies in switching performance and efficacy. By comparing different hydrogels and their respective properties, an outlook is provided on a new range of biocompatible, environment‐friendly, and sustainable neuromorphic hardware. How potential energy‐efficient information storage and processing can be achieved using artificial neural networks with brain‐inspired architecture for neuromorphic computing is described. The development of hydrogel‐based artificial synapses can significantly impact the fields of neuromorphic bionics, biometrics, and biosensing.
Fabrication of Multi‐Material Functional Circuits Using Microfluidic Directed Materials Patterning
Authors: Wagner Jessica R. , Jamison Matthew R. , Morin Stephen A.
Published: August 2024

Traditional circuit board fabrication schemes are not directly applicable to the production of flexible, multi‐material circuits. This article reports a technique, microfluidic directed material patterning, which combines soft microfluidic stamps and low‐temperature solution‐phase deposition to generate multi‐material circuits on flexible, non‐planar polymeric supports. Specifically, metallic and semiconductive traces are combined on commodity plastic films to yield functional photosensitive circuits that can be used in the spectrophotometric detection and concentration measurement of microdroplets on 3D “e‐plates.” The photoresistive material cadmium sulfide is used in these circuits because it is suitable for visible light detection and it can be deposited directly from aqueous solutions following established bath deposition procedures. This method can produce colorimetric devices capable of quantifying micromolar concentrations of Allura Red in microdroplets of Kool‐Aid. This technique presents the opportunity for producing single‐use or low‐use disposable/recyclable devices for flexible 3D sensors and detectors following a convenient, low‐waste fabrication scheme. The general capabilities of this approach, in terms of substrate geometry and device layout (e.g., the number, area, and pattern of photoresistive elements), can be applied to the design and manufacture of more intricate, multiplexed devices supportive of advanced and/or specialized functions that go beyond those reported in this initial demonstration.
Enhancing the Durability and Mechanical Performance of Superhydrophilic Coatings through Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Nanoparticles
Authors: Jang Joseph , Kwon Hyuk Jun , Hwang Ki‐Seob , Lee Jun‐Young
Published: August 2024

Superhydrophilic coatings are prominent in various industries, including automotive, and consumer electronics. However, challenges persist in terms of mechanical performance and durability. This study focuses on the development of organic–inorganic hybrid nanoparticles for superhydrophilic coatings that exhibit exceptional thermomechanical stability and long‐term durability. Employing green chemistry, polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are grafted onto silica nanoparticles, controlling the PEG molecular weight from 200 to 1000 to systematically investigate its impact on coating characteristics. Additionally, the intriguing phenomenon of phase separation facilitated by a polyurethane binder and its effects on both morphology and hydrophilicity is investigated. All hybrid coatings consistently exhibit remarkable superhydrophilicity, with contact angles consistently below 10°, the lowest being 1.4°. Longer PEG chains played a pivotal role in enhancing the thermal stability of the grafted PEG shell within the hybrid nanoparticles, achieving a maximum enhancement in decomposition temperature of 150 °C. Furthermore, the PEG shell substantially improves strain durability, with SiO2‐PEG 1000–50% exhibiting outstanding transmittance retention of 100% without any cracks even under a 100% tensile strain. SiO2‐PEG 200 emerged as the champion in maintaining superhydrophilicity throughout a 20‐day long‐term durability assessment. Moreover, the research has unveiled the intricate degradation mechanism responsible for the decline in hydrophilicity in these hybrid coatings.
Clec7a Worsens Long‐Term Outcomes after Ischemic Stroke by Aggravating Microglia‐Mediated Synapse Elimination
Authors: Wan Hanxi , He Mengfan , Cheng Chun , Yang Kexin , Wu Huanghui , Cong Peilin , Huang Xinwei , Zhang Qian , Shi Yufei , Hu Ji , Tian Li , Xiong Lize
Published: August 2024

Ischemic stroke (IS) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally and triggers a series of reactions leading to primary and secondary brain injuries and permanent neurological deficits. Microglia in the central nervous system play dual roles in neuroprotection and responding to ischemic brain damage. Here, an IS model is employed to determine the involvement of microglia in phagocytosis at excitatory synapses. Additionally, the effects of pharmacological depletion of microglia are investigated on improving neurobehavioral outcomes and mitigating brain injury. RNA sequencing of microglia reveals an increase in phagocytosis‐associated pathway activity and gene expression, and C‐type lectin domain family 7 member A (Clec7a) is identified as a key regulator of this process. Manipulating microglial Clec7a expression can potentially regulate microglial phagocytosis of synapses, thereby preventing synaptic loss and improving neurobehavioral outcomes after IS. It is further demonstrat that microglial Clec7a interacts with neuronal myeloid differentiation protein 2 (MD2), a key molecule mediating poststroke neurological injury, and propose the novel hypothesis that MD2 is a ligand for microglial Clec7a. These findings suggest that microglial Clec7a plays a critical role in mediating synaptic phagocytosis in a mouse model of IS, suggesting that Clec7a may be a therapeutic target for IS.
Pyrolytic Depolymerization of Polyolefins Catalysed by Zirconium‐based UiO‐66 Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Heng Jerry Zhi Xiong , Tan Tristan Tsai Yuan , Li Xin , Loh Wei Wei , Chen Yuting , Xing Zhenxiang , Lim Zhiyan , Ong Jennet Li Ying , Lin Katherine Shiyun , Nishiyama Yusuke , Yoshida Takefumi , Zhang Lili , Otake Ken‐ichi , Kitagawa Susumu , Loh Xian Jun , Ye Enyi , Lim Jason Y. C.
Published: August 2024

Polyolefins such as polyethylenes and polypropylenes are the most‐produced plastic waste globally, yet are difficult to convert into useful products due to their unreactivity. Pyrolysis is a practical method for large‐scale treatment of mixed, contaminated plastic, allowing for their conversion into industrially‐relevant petrochemicals. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), despite their tremendous utility in heterogeneous catalysis, have been overlooked for polyolefin depolymerization due to their perceived thermal instabilities and inability of polyethylenes and polypropylenes to penetrate their pores. Herein, we demonstrate the viability of UiO‐66 MOFs containing coordinatively‐unsaturated zirconium nodes, as effective catalysts for pyrolysis that significantly enhances the yields of valuable liquid and gas hydrocarbons, whilst halving the amounts of residual solids produced. Reactions occur on the Lewis‐acidic UiO‐66 nodes, without the need for noble metals, and yield aliphatic product distributions distinctly different from the aromatic‐rich hydrocarbons that can be obtained from zeolite catalysis. We also demonstrate the first unambiguous characterization of polyolefin penetration into UiO‐66 pores at pyrolytic temperatures, allowing access to the abundant Zr‐oxo nodes within the MOF interior for efficient C−C cleavage. Our work highlights the potential of MOFs as highly‐designable heterogeneous catalysts for depolymerisation of plastics, which can complement conventional catalysts in reactivity.
A Cytochrome P450 TxtE Model System with Mechanistic and Theoretical Evidence for a Heme Peroxynitrite Active Species
Authors: Mondal Pritam , Udukalage Dhilanka , Mohamed Abubaker A. , Wong Henrik P. H. , de Visser Sam P. , Wijeratne Gayan B.
Published: August 2024

The cytochrome P450 homolog, TxtE, efficiently catalyzes the direct and regioselective aromatic nitration of the indolyl moiety of L‐tryptophan to 4‐nitro‐L‐tryptophan, using nitric oxide (NO) and dioxygen (O2) as co‐substrates. Pathways for such direct and selective nitration of heteroaromatic motifs present platforms for engineering new nitration biocatalysts for pharmacologically beneficial targets, among a medley of other pivotal industrial applications. Precise mechanistic details concerning this pathway are only weakly understood, albeit a heme iron(III)‐peroxynitrite active species has been postulated. To shed light on this unique reaction landscape, we investigated the indole nitration pathway of a series of biomimetic ferric heme superoxide mimics, [(Por)FeIII(O2−⋅)], in the presence of NO. Therein, our model systems gave rise to three distinct nitroindole products, including 4‐nitroindole, the product analogous to that obtained with TxtE. Moreover, 15N and 18O isotope labeling studies, along with meticulously designed control experiments lend credence to a heme peroxynitrite active nitrating agent, drawing close similarities to the tryptophan nitration mechanism of TxtE. All organic and inorganic reaction components have been fully characterized using spectroscopic methods. Theoretical investigation into several mechanistic possibilities deem a unique indolyl radical based reaction pathway as the most energetically favorable, products of which, are in excellent agreement with experimental findings.
The utility of virtual reality and manikin crisis scenario simulations for anaesthesia trainee education: a randomised crossover pilot study
Authors: Babus L. W. , Gurnaney H. , Doshi A. K. , Liu H. , Nishisaki A. , Singh D. , Daly Guris R. J. ,   the CHOP Virtual Reality Group
Published: August 2024

Simulation education for anaesthesia trainees is essential to build clinical skills and virtual reality can provide a reproducible, high‐fidelity intra‐operative training environment. Compared to in‐situ manikin‐based simulation, this modality has yet to be thoroughly evaluated. Twenty‐six second post‐graduate year anaesthesiology residents were randomly divided into two groups and participated in both virtual reality and manikin crisis scenarios at sessions six months apart. The exposure order was group A virtual reality followed by manikin and group B manikin followed by virtual reality. Clinical assessments were performed using a standardised checklist. Knowledge assessments were conducted. National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index and System Usability Scale scores were collected immediately after participation. Clinical scores between groups A and B were not significantly different. Group A had improved post‐simulation knowledge scores after both sessions. Task load index scores were lower in mental demand for virtual reality. System usability scores showed less ease of use and more need for support in virtual reality.
Annealing improves the mechanical properties in poly(butylene succinate) films with oriented lamellar structure: The effect of metastable lamellae
Authors: Xie Jiayi , Xu Ruijie , Hwang JiunnJye , Zhu Haixia , Zhang Ting , Lei Caihong
Published: August 2024

The application range of biodegradable Poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) is highly dependent on its mechanical properties, which can be improved by the annealing process. In this study, the mechanical properties and microstructure of PBS films with oriented lamellar structures annealed at different temperatures were characterized. It was found that the annealing process effectively improves the elastic modulus and yield strength of the oriented PBS film with the increase of annealing temperature, which is completely different from the previous results of other oriented semicrystalline polymers such as PP, PMP, PE, and PVDF. The long periods, lateral dimensions and orientation of the lamellae of the oriented PBS film increase with the increasing annealing temperature. Meanwhile, the low‐temperature endothermic plateau in the DSC curve and the g1,r/Q in the SAXS experiment decrease with annealing temperature, indicating that increasing annealing temperature would reduce the thin and metastable lamellae in the PBS films. Compared the annealing results of oriented PBS films and that of other‐oriented semicrystalline polymers, we suggested the annealing process for the oriented PBS films would reduce the thin lamellae and form thicker lamellae, resulting in an increase in the elastic modulus and yield strength of the annealed PBS films. This study clarifies how the annealing temperature affects the microstructure and mechanical properties of the oriented semicrystalline films.
The Significance of Enhancing the Reliability of Lithium‐Ion Batteries in Reducing Electric Vehicle Field Safety Accidents
Authors: Zhang Songtong , Zhu Xiayu , Wang Zehua , Wang Li , Zhang Zhiguo , Liu Yan , Qiu Jingyi , Zhang Hao , He Xiangming
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the frequency of incidents related to the safety of electric vehicles (EVs) due to lithium‐ion batteries has seen a troubling uptick, leading to a heightened focus on the safety of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) as a critical area of research. After thorough analysis, this study contends that the root cause of the majority of safety incidents involving LIBs in the field is predominantly linked to reliability issues within the battery products themselves. This argument offers a more targeted perspective than a broad discussion on the safety concerns of LIBs. Reliability, in this context, is defined as the likelihood that a product will execute its intended function without error over a defined period and under specific conditions. The paper delineates the reasons why current safety testing standards are unable to entirely prevent LIB safety incidents, scrutinizes the multifaceted causes and testing methodologies associated with LIB unpredictive thermal runaways from reliability perspective, and aims to reduce the probability of battery field failure and electric vehicle fire incidents, with an emphasis on mtigating unpredictive fire accidents. This study advocates for a more aggressive research effort into the reliability of LIBs, parallel to the vigorous advancement of safety technologies for these batteries.
Optimization of process parameters and medium components for carbon monoxide bioconversion with Clostridium autoethanogenum
Authors: Owoade Ademola , Alshami Ali S. , Sparling Richard , Bardal Stefan , Levin David
Published: August 2024

Clostridium autoethanogenum is a model microbe capable of converting carbon monoxide (CO) into bioethanol and useful biochemicals. Successful process optimization when using CO as the primary carbon source requires an understanding of the influence of process parameters and growth medium components on cell growth and end‐product formation. We conducted a full factorial analysis of the effects of CO total pressure, pH, yeast extract (YE), and cysteine concentrations on acetic acid, ethanol, and biomass production utilizing C. autoethanogenum with CO as the primary substrate. Maximum ethanol production of 0.71 g L–1 was obtained at a pH of 4.5, yeast extract concentration of 0.5 g L–1 , CO pressure of 1.8 atm, and cysteine concentration of 1.5 g L–1. There was a tenfold enhancement when the pH was lowered from 6 to 4.5 and the YE concentration was reduced to 0.5 g L–1. Response optimization using the reduced gradient algorithm confirmed these results. The information presented in this study could prove valuable for process engineering design by assisting with the selection of parameters that yield syngas blends specifically intended for increased ethanol production.
Measuring misclassification and sample bias in passive surveillance systems: Improving prevalence estimates of critical congenital heart defects in state‐based passive surveillance systems
Authors: Barnett Chris , Christiansen James , Mills Monica , Lord Jordyn , Parrish Jared
Published: August 2024

Objectives

We assessed reporting misclassification for 12 critical congenital heart defects (CCHDs) identified through administrative diagnosis codes within a passive surveillance system. We measured the effect of misclassification on prevalence estimation. Lastly, we investigated a sample‐based review strategy to estimate surveillance misclassification resulting from administrative diagnosis codes for case detection.

Methods

We received 419 reports of CCHDs between 2007 and 2018; 414 were clinically reviewed. We calculated confirmation probabilities to assess misclassification and adjust prevalence estimates. Random samples of reported cases were taken at proportions between 20% and 90% for each condition to assess sample bias. Sampling was repeated 1000 times to measure sample‐estimate variability.

Results

Misclassification ranged from a low of 19% (n = 4/21) to a high of 84% (n = 21/25). Unconfirmed prevalence rates ranged between one and six cases per 10,000 live births, with some conditions significantly higher than national estimates. However, confirmed rates were either lower or comparable to national estimates.

Conclusion

Passive birth defect surveillance programs that rely on administrative diagnosis codes for case identification of CCHDs are subject to misclassification that bias prevalence estimates. We showed that a sample‐based review could improve the prevalence estimates of 12 cardiovascular conditions relative to their unconfirmed prevalence rates.
Transient Photoactivation of Anionophores by Using Redshifted Fast‐Relaxing Azobenzenes
Authors: Kerckhoffs Aidan , Ahmad Manzoor , Langton Matthew J.
Published: August 2024

Photo‐regulated transmembrane ionophores enable spatial and temporal control over activity, offering promise as targeted therapeutics. Key to such applications is control using bio‐compatible visible light. Herein, we report red‐shifted azobenzene‐derived synthetic anionophores that use amber or red light to trigger (E)‐(Z) photoisomerisation and activation of transmembrane chloride transport. We demonstrate that by tuning the thermal half‐life of the more active, but thermodynamically unstable, Z isomer to relax on the timescale of minutes, transient activation of ion transport can be achieved by activating solely with visible light and deactivating by thermal relaxation.
Chameleonic Cages: Encapsulation of Anionic, Neutral, and Cationic Guest Species within [Fe4L4]8+ Tetrahedral Cages Synthesised from the tris(4‐aminophenyl)phosphate pro‐Ligand
Authors: Ward Jas S. , Kruger Paul E.
Published: August 2024

An adaptable Fe(II) tetrahedral cage, [Fe4L4][BF4]8 (L=tris(4‐(((E)‐pyridin‐2‐ylmethylene)amino)phenyl) phosphate), has been synthesised via self‐assembly. By modulating the orientation of its pendant P=O groups, the cage was found to be capable of encapsulating anionic, neutral, and cationic guests, which were confirmed in the solid state via single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) and in solution by high‐resolution mass spectroscopy (HR‐MS), as well as by NMR (1H, 19F, 31P) studies where possible.