bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Métodos quantitativos aplicados à gestão de custos: um estudo descritivo sobre as pesquisas científicas apresentadas nos Congressos Brasileiros de Custos
Authors: Carmo Carlos Roberto Souza , Martins Vidigal Fernandes , Ferreira Mônica Aparecida , Soares Adeilson Barbosa
Published: December 2021

Após dezessete edições, o Congresso Brasileiro de Custos pode ser visto como um dos principais eventos nacionais de pesquisa e produção científica voltada para área de gestão, controle e análise de custos. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo geral traçar um perfil das publicações científicas voltadas para utilização de métodos quantitativos aplicados na solução de problemas científicos que envolvem custos, apresentadas no Congresso Brasileiro de Custos ao longo do quinquênio 2005-2009. Para tanto, este artigo foi dividido em quatro partes distintas, além da introdução. Na primeira, foram identificadas as justificativas para o seu desenvolvimento, o questionamento direcionador e a metodologia escolhida para respondê-lo. A segunda parte consistiu na elaboração da plataforma teórica sob a qual foi desenvolvida a pesquisa. Na terceira etapa, foram analisados os dados referentes ao perfil dos trabalhos que integraram a área temática voltada para “Aplicação de Modelos Quantitativos na Gestão de Custos”, apresentados no evento ao longo do quinquênio 2005-2009. Na última, foram apresentadas as principais considerações sobre a pesquisa, suas limitações e as sugestões para ampliação deste estudo. Ao término desta pesquisa de natureza exploratória e descritiva, foi possível constatar uma predominância na utilização “métodos estatísticos diversos”. A “programação linear” foi o segundo método quantitativo mais utilizado dentre os trabalhos que formaram a amostra de pesquisa. Entre outras observações, este trabalho também permitiu constatar a existência de uma predominância de pesquisas que utilizaram algum tipo de estudo de caso real ou a aplicação dos modelos matemáticos em alguma base de aplicação composta por dados reais.
A utilização de artefatos de contabilidade gerencial em cooperativas agropecuárias
Authors: Isidoro Claudinei , Facci Nilson , Espejo Marcia Maria dos Santos Bortolocci , Garcias Paulo Mello
Published: December 2021

A reestruturação de empresas em forma de cooperativas visa a união de pessoas com o intuito de fortalecer determinada atividade comum realizada entre os cooperados. As formas de gerenciamento variam, sendo que algumas apresentam melhores desempenhos que outras. Acerca disto, este trabalho busca identificar as ferramentas gerenciais definidas pelo IFAC (1998a) que são utilizadas pelas cooperativas e se estas impactam ou não no resultado. Primeiramente emolduramos a população selecionando as cooperativas que estão entre o setor de agronegócios da Revista Exame - Melhores e Maiores de 2010. Em seguida aplicou-se questionário nas 37 cooperativas, sendo que retornaram 13 questionários válidos, os quais constituíram o banco de dados para posterior realização dos testes não-paramétricos qui-quadrado e Kruskal-Wallis. Por fim, identificou-se que as cooperativas vêm utilizando artefatos de contabilidade, sendo que poucas (13%) estão no quarto estágio. Outra descoberta foi que, dentre as cooperativas analisadas, o desempenho não depende da utilização de artefatos mais avançados de contabilidade, uma vez que os melhores desempenhos ficaram entre as empresas classificadas no terceiro estágio da contabilidade gerencial. Dentre os índices analisados individualmente, apenas o da rentabilidade sobre o patrimônio líquido foi comprovada correlação, contudo melhores índices foram encontrados nas empresas do terceiro estágio.
ESTUDO SOBRE PUBLICAÇÕES EM MENSURAÇÃO E AVALIAÇÃO DE DESEMPENHO EM REVISTAS DE CONTABILIDADE DA ESPANHA
Authors: Lunkes Rogério João , RIPOLL VICENTE MATEO , Rosa Fabricia Silva da
Published: December 2021

A mensuração e avaliação de desempenho é um dos temas de grande discussão na literatura, principalmente na contabilidade gerencial. Uma das formas de perceber e entender o seu nível de desenvolvimento é estudar suas publicações nas principais revistas. Assim, o objetivo do trabalho é identificar e analisar as publicações sobre mensuração e avaliação de desempenho nas revistas de contabilidade da Espanha. Para tanto, foram selecionadas sete revistas espanholas listadas no IN-RECS, e analisados 55 artigos no período de 2001 a 2010. Entre os principais resultados pode-se destacar a abordagem do tema diretamente relacionado á aplicação do Cuadro de Mando Integral, com utilização dos métodos predominantemente de revisão e estudo de caso. Já entre as citações, forte influencia da literatura norte-americana.
Multiple interaction modes between saccharin and sweet taste receptors determine a species‐dependent response to saccharin
Authors: Zhao Xiangzhong , Liu Meng , Cui Meng , Liu Bo
Published: December 2021

Saccharin is a commonly used artificial sweetener that exhibits both sweetening and sweet inhibition activities. The species‐dependent response towards saccharin and the interaction between saccharin and the sweet taste receptor T1R2/T1R3 remain elusive. In this study we used mismatched chimeras of T1R2 and T1R3 and calcium mobilization functional analysis to reveal a detailed species‐dependent response towards saccharin of human, squirrel monkey, and mouse sweet taste receptors. Our findings, combined with previous results by others, suggest multiple and complex interaction modes between saccharin and the sweet taste receptor, which are helpful guidelines for effective modulation of the sweet taste by sweetener/sweet inhibitors.
Electrochemical Deposition of a Single‐Crystalline Nanorod Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Film with Efficient Charge and Exciton Transport
Authors: Zeng Cheng , Zheng Wenhao , Xu Hong , Osella Silvio , Ma Wei , Wang Hai I. , Qiu Zijie , Otake Ken‐ichi , Ren Wencai , Cheng Huiming , Müllen Klaus , Bonn Mischa , Gu Cheng , Ma Yuguang
Published: December 2021

Electrochemical deposition has emerged as an efficient technique for preparing conjugated polymer films on electrodes. However, this method encounters difficulties in synthesizing crystalline products and controlling their orientation on electrodes. Here we report electrochemical film deposition of a large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon. The film is composed of single‐crystalline nanorods, in which the molecules adopt a cofacial stacking arrangement along the π–π direction. Film thickness and crystal size can be controlled by electrochemical conditions such as scan rate and electrolyte species, while the choice of anode material determines crystal orientation. The film supports exceptionally efficient migration of both free carriers and excitons: the free carrier mobility reaches over 30 cm2 V−1 s−1, whereas the excitons are delocalized with a low binding energy of 118.5 meV and a remarkable exciton diffusion length of 45 nm.
Flash Electrochemical Approach to Carbocations
Authors: Takumi Masahiro , Sakaue Hodaka , Nagaki Aiichiro
Published: December 2021

A novel flow electrochemical reactor that accomplishes electrolysis within a few seconds in a single passage was developed. By using the flow reactor system, the flash electrochemical generation of short‐lived carbocations, including oxocarbenium ions, N‐acyliminium ions, glycosyl cations, and Ferrier cations was achieved within a few seconds, enabling the subsequent reaction with nucleophiles before their decomposition. Moreover, continuous operation based on the present system enabled the rapid synthesis of pharmaceutical precursors on demand.
TransformingEscherichia coliProteomembranes into Artificial Chloroplasts Using Molecular Photocatalysis
Authors: Mengele Alexander K. , Weixler Dominik , Amthor Sebastian , Eikmanns Bernhard J. , Seibold Gerd M. , Rau Sven
Published: December 2021

During the light‐dependent reaction of photosynthesis, green plants couple photoinduced cascades of redox reactions with transmembrane proton translocations to generate reducing equivalents and chemical energy in the form of NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) and ATP (adenosine triphosphate), respectively. We mimic these basic processes by combining molecular ruthenium polypyridine‐based photocatalysts and inverted vesicles derived fromEscherichia coli. Upon irradiation with visible light, the interplay of photocatalytic nicotinamide reduction and enzymatic membrane‐located respiration leads to the simultaneous formation of two biologically active cofactors, NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and ATP, respectively. This inorganic‐biologic hybrid system thus emulates the cofactor delivering function of an active chloroplast.
Spatiotemporal Control of Molecular Cascade Reactions by a Reconfigurable DNA Origami Domino Array
Authors: Fan Sisi , Ji Bin , Liu Yan , Zou Kexuan , Tian Zhijin , Dai Bin , Cui Daxiang , Zhang Pengfei , Ke Yonggang , Song Jie
Published: December 2021

Inspired by efficient biomolecular reactions in the cell, versatile DNA nanostructures have been explored for manipulating the spatial position and regulating reactions at the molecular level. Spatially controlled arrangement of molecules on the artificial scaffolds generally leads to enhanced reaction activities. Especially, the rich toolset of dynamic DNA nanostructures provides a potential route towards more sophisticated and vigorous regulation of molecular reactions. Herein, a reconfigurable DNA origami domino array (DODA) as a dynamic scaffold was adopted in this work for temporal‐controlled and switchable molecular cascade reactions. Dynamic regulation of the assembly of G‐quadruplex, hybridization of parallel‐stranded duplex and assembly of binary DNAzyme were demonstrated. Molecular cascade reactions on the triggered reconfiguration of DODAs were realized, resulting in more complex, dynamic, and switchable control over the reactions.
High‐resolution observations of low‐luminosity peaked spectrum sources
Authors: Collier Jordan D.
Published: December 2021

Although radio observations have been historically seen as less valuable than optical observations, today's broadband radio spectra of peaked spectrum sources reveal detailed physics from within the inner region of the galaxy, on spatial scales beyond what an optical telescope can resolve. Peaked radio spectra are thought to be evolving into large‐scale radio galaxies, although an over‐abundance of the most compact sources reveals that a significant fraction are confined within their host galaxies. Furthermore, at the lowest luminosities, these sources are largely unknown, and may reveal the small‐scale precursors of FR‐I galaxies. Here, I summarize the previous work exploring the properties of low‐luminosity peaked radio sources, and the future work that extends on this within even deeper radio observations of well‐studied fields.
Datenmodelle für digitale Zwillinge von Brücken und bildbasierte Zustandsaufnahmen
Authors: Taraben Jakob , Helmrich Marcel , Morgenthal Guido
Published: December 2021

Für eine präventive und nachhaltige Instandhaltung von Infrastrukturbauwerken sind regelmäßige visuelle Inspektionen von großer Bedeutung, um Schäden frühzeitig zu erkennen und entsprechende Maßnahmen zu ergreifen. Moderne Technologien wie unbemannte Flugsysteme, ausgerüstet mit hochauflösenden Kameras, unterstützen immer mehr den Inspektionsprozess und die damit verbundene Dokumentation. Dadurch entstehen große Mengen an Bilddaten, Orthofotos, Punktwolken und Oberflächennetzen, welche die gesamte Bauwerksoberfläche in einem ausreichend hohen Detailgrad darstellen und die Annotation von visuell detektierbaren Anomalien ermöglichen. Um diese Datenmenge effektiv nutzen und verwalten zu können, sind Methoden zur Verarbeitung und entsprechend verknüpfte Datenmodelle notwendig. Vor dem Hintergrund einer kontinuierlich zu wiederholenden Bauwerksüberwachung ist eine Automatisierung der einzelnen Analyseschritte besonders vielversprechend. In diesem Aufsatz werden Ansätze für die Verarbeitung großer bildbasierter Datensätze zu einem verknüpften Inspektionsmodell beschrieben. Dazu wird gezeigt, wie Annotationen in Bildern und Orthofotos im Kontext von idealisierten Simulationsmodellen genutzt werden und den Prozess der Zustandsbewertung unterstützen können. Der daraus entstehende digitale Zwilling soll eine konsistente Datenbasis über mehrere Zustände abbilden und damit die Verwaltung heterogener Inspektionsdaten ermöglichen.
Immobilization of phenol‐containing compounds via electrochemical activation of a urazole derivative
Authors: Kim Jisu , Kim Noo‐ri , Kim Seung‐Woo , Kim Young‐Kwan , Yeo Woon‐Seok
Published: December 2021

We introduce an efficient method for the immobilization of phenolic compounds, based on 1,2,4,‐triazoline‐3,5‐dione (TAD), which selectively reacts with phenolic compounds at the α position to the phenolic hydroxyl group, ensuring intact phenol functionality, and therefore, maintaining the biological activity of the phenolic compound. We prepared self‐assembled monolayers on gold that presented urazole (the reduced form of TAD) as the terminal group and which were activated electrochemically without treatment with chemical oxidants, allowing on‐demand activation and in situ immobilization of the phenolic compounds. We examined the immobilization of various phenolic compounds and verified the surface chemistry using electrochemistry and mass spectrometry. The proposed method is simple and straightforward and does not require complicated protocols and reagents, and thus, it can be a general and practical platform for the immobilization of phenol‐containing molecules on the surfaces of various materials.
Design, Synthesis, and Anticancer Activity of Cinnamoylated Barbituric Acid Derivatives
Authors: Liu Yue , Li Peng‐Xiao , Mu Wen‐Wen , Sun Ya‐Lei , Liu Ren‐Min , Yang Jie , Liu Guo‐Yun
Published: December 2021

This work deals with the design and synthesis of 18 barbituric acid derivatives bearing 1,3‐dimethylbarbituric acid and cinnamic acid scaffolds to find potent anticancer agents. The target molecules were obtained through Knoevenagel condensation and acylation reaction. The cytotoxicity was assessed by the MTT assay. Flowcytometry was performed to determine the cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, ROS levels and the loss of MMP. The ratios of GSH/GSSG and the MDA levels were determined by using UV spectrophotometry. The results revealed that introducing substitutions (CF3, OCF3, F) on the meta‐ of the benzyl ring of barbituric acid derivatives led to a considerable increase in the antiproliferative activities compared with that of corresponding ortho‐ and para‐substituted barbituric acid derivatives. Mechanism investigation implied that the 1c could increase the ROS and MDA level, decrease the ratio of GSH/GSSG and MMP, and lead to cell cycle arrest. Further research is needed for structural optimization to enhance hydrophilicity, thereby improve the biological activity of these compounds.
Nuclear variations and tapetum polyploidy related to pollen grain development in Passiflora L. (Passifloraceae)
Authors: Parteka Letícia M. , Mariath Jorge E. A. , Vanzela André L. L. , Silvério Adriano
Published: December 2021

Tapetal cells comprise an anther tissue fundamental to pollen grain development. They are associated with endoreduplication events, which culminate in polyploid and multinucleated cells, high metabolic activity, and different organelle arrangements to support all the development of the pollen grains. Passiflora species present a secretory tapetum, with diversity in the number and size of nuclei. Tapetal cells undergo numerous changes in a short period of development when compared to the plant's life span. To improve our knowledge of tapetum development, tests assessing ploidy levels, anatomy, cytochemistry, transmission electron microscopy, flow cytometry, as well as conventional and molecular cytogenetics were used in Passiflora actinia and P. elegans. The current data show striking differences in nuclear organisation during tapetal cell development, including mono to quadrinucleate cells, and ploidy levels from 2n to 32n. One of the most peculiar features was the atypical behaviour of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which accumulated in the cell border, similar to a ‘cER’, as well as large dictyosomes. This endomembrane configuration may be related to the tapetum nutritional network and secretion of compounds at the end of meiosis. Another atypical feature of the ER was the formation of an invagination to establish ‘binucleated’ polyploid cells. This membrane projection appears when the nuclei form two lobes, as well as when it organises a nucleoplasmic reticulum. These data demonstrate that there are important ultrastructural changes in tapetal cells, including organelle arrangements, ploidy levels, and nuclear activity, common to P. actinia and P. elegans, but different from the plant model A. thaliana.
Cumulative risk of a false‐positive screening result: A retrospective cohort study using empirical data from 10 biennial screening rounds in BreastScreen Norway
Authors: Tsuruda Kaitlyn M. , Larsen Marthe , Román Marta , Hofvind Solveig
Published: December 2021

Background

False‐positive screening results are an inevitable and commonly recognized disadvantage of mammographic screening. This study estimated the cumulative probability of experiencing a first false‐positive screening result in women attending 10 biennial screening rounds in BreastScreen Norway, which targets women aged 50 to 69 years.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study analyzed screening outcomes from 421,545 women who underwent 1,894,523 screening examinations during 1995‐2019. Empirical data were used to calculate the cumulative risk of experiencing a first false‐positive screening result and a first false‐positive screening result that involved an invasive procedure over 10 screening rounds. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the effect of adjusting for irregular attendance, age at screening, and number of screens attended.

Results

The cumulative risk of experiencing a first false‐positive screening result was 18.04% (95% confidence interval [CI], 18.00%‐18.07%). It was 5.01% (95% CI, 5.01%‐5.02%) for experiencing a false‐positive screening result that involved an invasive procedure. Adjusting for irregular attendance or age at screening did not appreciably affect these estimates. After adjustments for the number of screens attended, the cumulative risk of a first false‐positive screening result was 18.28% (95% CI, 18.24%‐18.32%), and the risk of a false‐positive screening result including an invasive procedure was 5.11% (95% CI, 5.11%‐5.22%). This suggested that there was minimal bias from dependent censoring.

Conclusions

Nearly 1 in 5 women will experience a false‐positive screening result if they attend 10 biennial screening rounds in BreastScreen Norway. One in 20 will experience a false‐positive screening result with an invasive procedure.

Lay Summary

A false‐positive screening result occurs when a woman attending mammographic screening is called back for further assessment because of suspicious findings, but the assessment does not detect breast cancer.

Further assessment includes additional imaging. Usually, it involves ultrasound, and sometimes, it involves a biopsy.

This study has evaluated the chance of experiencing a false‐positive screening result among women attending 10 screening examinations over 20 years in BreastScreen Norway.

Nearly 1 in 5 women will experience a false‐positive screening result over 10 screening rounds. One in 20 women will experience a false‐positive screening result involving a biopsy.
The Special Case of the Spectral Emission of a Tb3+ Mono Metal Complex
Authors: Mazzoni M. S. C. , Toledo J. R. , Pereira‐Andrade E. , Krambrock K. , Cury L. A. , Malachias A. , Safar G. A. M.
Published: December 2021

The fine structure in the spectral lines of the visible fluorescence of Tb3+ complexes are replaced by a single peak in the case of a singular molecular complex Tb(H3PTC)3, where H4PTC represents perylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic acid, and its emission wavelength depends on the film thickness. This single peak challenges the old creed that the f‐orbital electrons of Tb3+ are always protected from the influence of the surrounding atoms. We perform density functional theory calculations to show that the wavefunction of the ground state is localized and in addition, spin‐polarized, and this facilitates fluorescent transitions under UV to the first excited state instead of the fundamental state. We discuss the possibility of making a spintronic device with the molecule, Tb(H3PTC)3.
Regulation of axon pruning of mossy fiber projection in hippocampus by CRMP2 and CRMP4
Authors: Nakanishi Yurika , Akinaga Satoshi , Osawa Koki , Suzuki Natusmi , Sugeno Ayaka , Kolattukudy Papachan , Goshima Yoshio , Ohshima Toshio
Published: December 2021

Axon pruning facilitates the removal of ectopic and misguided axons and plays an important role in neural circuit formation during brain development. Sema3F and its receptor neuropilin‐2 (Nrp2) have been shown to be involved in the stereotyped pruning of the infrapyramidal bundle (IPB) of mossy fibers of the dentate gyrus (DG) in the developing hippocampus.

Collapsin response mediator proteins (CRMPs) were originally identified as an intracellular mediator of semaphorin signaling, and the defective pruning of IPB was recently reported in CRMP2‐/‐ and CRMP3‐/‐ mice. CRMP1 and CRMP4 have high homology to CRMP2 and CRMP3, and their expression in the developing mouse brain overlaps; however, their role in IPB pruning has not yet been examined.

In this study, we report that CRMP4, but not CRMP1, is involved in IPB pruning during neural circuit formation in the hippocampus. Our genetic interaction analyses indicated that CRMP2 and CRMP4 have distinct functions and that CRMP2 mediates IPB pruning via Nrp2. We also observed the altered synaptic terminals of mossy fibers in CRMP2 and CRMP4 mutant mice. These results suggest that CRMP family members have a distinct function in the axon pruning and targeting of mossy fibers of the hippocampal DG in the developing mouse brain.
The difference of water footprint and availability as a physical metric for sustainable water use and management
Authors: Naderi Mostafa , Parsa Samaneh
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a physical metric that is defined as ‘difference of water footprint and availability in a given region’ during either normal or dry periods, based on blue and green water concepts. Proposed metric quickly highlights water‐stressed regions and directly provides volume of water surplus/deficit in the region of interest. Evaluated green water surplus/deficit for agricultural areas can be applied to assess optimum irrigation water requirement while blue water surplus/deficit can be used to assess potential growth of agricultural‐based economy and sustainable water use and allocation within a watershed. We assessed surplus/deficit volumes of blue and green waters for three watersheds of Karaj, Latian and Mamlu dams located in Tehran and Alborz Provinces of Iran. Blue and green water resources are quantified using well‐calibrated hydrologic model of the Soil and Water Assessment Tool during the period 1995–2013. Results denote that minimum and maximum water deficit occur during wet and dry seasons, respectively. Study area does not experience green water deficit during normal periods, but a few regions encounter green water deficit during droughts. Annual blue water metrics show that one (Subbasin 7) and three subbasins (Subbasins 5–7) are ecological hotspots during normal and dry periods, respectively. Results also indicate that farmers should reduce applied irrigation water from 4.86 to 3.165 (−35%) and 3.4 (−30%) m3/s during normal and dry periods, respectively, while cultivated area (agricultural production) in Karaj, Latian and Mamlu watersheds can, respectively, be increased by 31 (
 kg), 52 (
 kg) and 31.4 km2 (
 kg) during droughts.
Moisture‐Induced Non‐Equilibrium Phase Segregation in Triple Cation Mixed Halide Perovskite Monitored by In Situ Characterization Techniques and Solid‐State NMR
Authors: Kazemi Mohammad Ali Akhavan , Folastre Nicolas , Raval Parth , Sliwa Michel , Nsanzimana Jean Marie Vianney , Golonu Sema , Demortiere Arnaud , Rousset Jean , Lafon Olivier , Delevoye Laurent , Reddy G. N. Manjunatha , Sauvage Frédéric
Published: December 2021

Environmental stability is a major bottleneck of perovskite solar cells. Only a handful of studies are investigating the effect of moisture on the structural degradation of the absorber. They mostly rely on ex situ experiments and on completely degraded samples, which restrict the assessment on initial and final stage. By combining in situ X‐ray diffraction under controlled 85% relative humidity, and live observations of the water‐induced degradation using liquid‐cell transmission electron microscopy, we reveal two competitive degradation paths leading on one hand to the decomposition of state‐of‐the‐art mixed cation/anion (Cs0.05(MA0.17FA0.83)0.95Pb(Br0.17I0.83)3 (CsMAFA) into PbI2 through a dissolution/recrystallization mechanism and, on the other hand, to a non‐equilibrium phase segregation leading to CsPb2Br5 and a Cesium‐poor/iodide‐rich Cs0.05‐x(MA0.17FA0.83)0.95Pb(Br0.17−2yI0.83+2y)3 perovskite. This degradation mechanism is corroborated at atomic‐scale resolution through solid‐state 1H and 133Cs NMR analysis. Exposure to moisture leads to a film containing important heterogeneities in terms of morphology, photoluminescence intensities, and lifetimes. Our results provide new insights and consensus that complex perovskite compositions, though very performant as champion devices, are comparatively metastable, a trait that limits the chances to achieve long‐term stability.
Seamlessly Merging the Capacity of P into Sb at Same Voltage with Maintained Superior Cycle Stability and Low‐temperature Performance for Li‐ion Batteries
Authors: Wei Yaqing , He Jun , Zhang Jie , Ou Mingyang , Guo Yanpeng , Chen Jiajun , Zeng Cheng , Xu Jia , Han Jiantao , Zhai Tianyou , Li Huiqiao
Published: December 2021

Among the alloying‐type anodes, elemental Sb possesses the suitable yet safe plateau, simple lithiation pathway, small voltage polarization, high conductivity, and superior cycle stability. However, challenge is that its intrinsic capacity is rather low (660 mAh g−1), <1/6 of silicon. Herein, we propose a seamless integration strategy by merging the voltage and capacity of phosphorus and antimony into a solid solution alloy. Interestingly, the enlistment of P is found greatly enlarge the capacity from 660 to 993 mAh g−1 for such Sb30P30 solid solution, while maintaining a single and stable discharge plateau (~0.79 V) similar to elemental Sb. Various experimental characterizations including XPS, PDF, Raman, and EDS mapping reveal that in such a material the P and Sb atoms have interacted with each other to form a homogenous solid solution alloy, rather than a simple mixing of the two substances. Thus, the Sb30P30 exhibits superior rate performances (807 mAh g−1 at 5000 mA g−1) and cyclability (821 mAh g−1 remained after 300 cycles). Furthermore, such Sb60‐xPx alloys can even deliver 621 mAh g−1 at −30°C, which can be served as the alternative anode materials for high‐energy and low‐temperature batteries. This unique seamless integration strategy based on solid solution chemistry can be easily leveraged to manipulate the capacity of other electrode materials at similar voltage.
Electrospun Semiconductor‐Based Nano‐Heterostructures for Photocatalytic Energy Conversion and Environmental Remediation: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Lu Na , Zhang Mingyi , Jing Xuedong , Zhang Peng , Zhu Yongan , Zhang Zhenyi
Published: December 2021

Harvesting solar energy to drive the semiconductor photocatalysis offers a promising tactic to address ever‐growing challenges of both energy shortage and environmental pollution. Design and synthesis of nano‐heterostructure photocatalysts with controllable components and morphologies are the key factors for achieving highly efficient photocatalytic processes. One‐dimensional (1D) semiconductor nanofibers produced by electrospinning possess a large ratio of length to diameter, high ratio of surface to volume, small grain sizes, and high porosity, which are ideally suited for photocatalytic reactions from the viewpoint of structure advantage. After the secondary treatment of these nanofibers through the solvothermal, gas reduction, in situ doping, or assembly methods, the multi‐component nanofibers with hierarchical nano‐heterostructures can be obtained to further enhance their light absorption and charge carrier separation during the photocatalytic processes. In recent years, the electrospun semiconductor‐based nano‐heterostructures have become a “hot topic” in the fields of photocatalytic energy conversion and environmental remediation. This review article summarizes the recent progress in electrospinning synthesis of various kinds of high‐performance semiconductor‐based nano‐heterostructure photocatalysts for H2 production, CO2 reduction, and decomposition of pollutants. The future perspectives of these materials are also discussed.
Direct solar vapor generation with micro‐3D printed hydrogel device
Authors: Alketbi Afra S. , Raza Aikifa , Sajjad Muhammad , Li Hongxia , AlMarzooqi Faisal , Zhang TieJun
Published: December 2021

Direct solar vapor generation (SVG) provides a sustainable and eco‐friendly solution to the current global water scarcity challenges. However, existing SVG systems operating under natural sunlight suffer from low water yield and high energy requirement of vaporization. New materials with reduced latent heat of water vaporization are in urgent demand to boost SVG process. Herein, we propose a novel strategy to additively fabricate anisotropic hybrid 3D structure from photocurable thermoresponsive p(NIPAm‐co‐PEGDA) hydrogel on the top of PEGDA foam for SVG. The in‐situ post‐printing synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles within the p(NIPAm‐co‐PEGDA) hydrogel on the top surface, thus introducing anisotropy, is achieved by adding metallic salt precursor into the printing solution. The as‐fabricated hydrogel composite structure exhibits superior light absorption properties and rapid capillary‐driven water transport through a 3D‐printed microchannel network within the hydrogel. As a result, our SVG device achieves an extraordinary water evaporation rate of 5.12 kg m−2 h−1 under one sun (1 kW/m2). The intrinsic water activation states, in addition to wettability modulation with temperature increase within p(NIPAm‐co‐PEGDA) hydrogel, plays a critical role in reducing the equivalent vaporization enthalpy and shifting the vaporization to relatively lower temperatures. The proposed hybrid SVG device is feasible, portable, and highly efficient, promising great potential for grand water‐energy nexus challenges.

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Performance and feasibility study of a new hybrid solar water heater integrated a small water turbine
Authors: Habchi Abderrahim , Hartiti Bouchaib , Labrim Hicham , Fadili Salah , Ertugrul Mehmet , Faddouli Ali , El Hajjam Nablous , Thevenin Philippe , Ntsoenzok Esidor
Published: December 2021

The production of thermal energy by solar water heater (SWH) systems is an idea, which has been analyzed and applied for many years. This paper presents a numerical simulation of a new hybrid SWH, in which two tubular thermoelectric generators (TTEGs) and a small water turbine are used to generate more additional electrical energy. The small water turbine is installed between the outlet of the four absorber tubes and the inlet of the water tank in order to generate more electrical energy from the cold‐water motion. Furthermore, the use of a temperature adjustment concept and an optical concentrator shows many significant improvements on the thermal and electrical performance of the new system. Our main results shows that the overall maximum electrical power of two TTEGs was approximately 348.073 W, corresponding to 2.72% of their overall maximum electrical efficiency. Also, the maximum thermal efficiency of the new system reached to 86.09% with an overall hot water quantity of 1548.57 L/d. The electrical energy produced by the small water turbine is about 89.467 W for a cold‐water flow rate of 3 kg/s.
South American geoarchaeology: Contributions after the 21st National Chilean Archaeology Conference
Authors: Sitzia Luca , Ugalde Paula C. , Holliday Vance T.
Published: December 2021

In this special issue, articles include research from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Uruguay, plus a special paper from the United States of America. Several of the articles are from Chilean scientists and/or focus on Chilean geoarchaeology and are intended to reflect the spirit of the symposium carried out during the Congreso Nacional de Arqueología Chilena 2018 (National Chilean Archaeology Conference). The topics, techniques, and research questions of the articles in this special issue are varied, but we have recognized four main themes that are common and encompass all the contributions: (1) Late Pleistocene–Early Holocene human settlement or migration; (2) pre‐Hispanic soil use and conservation; (3) monumental landscape modification—shell middens and mounds; and (4) bioarchaeology and mobility.
Comparison of efficacy and toxicity of chemoradiation regimens for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma primary treatment
Authors: McCusker Michael G. , Mehra Ranee , Amr Sania , Taylor Rodney J. , Cullen Kevin J. , Goloubeva Olga G.
Published: December 2021

Background

The best chemoradiation regimen to treat locally and regionally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is yet to be established.

Methods

We compared overall survival (OS) and adverse events following chemoradiation regimens (high‐dose [HDC] or low‐dose [LDC] cisplatin, or carboplatin [CB]) in HNSCC cases selected from SEER‐Medicare linked database.

Results

Of the 1335 cases who underwent radiotherapy, 264 received HDC, 259 received LDC, and 353 received CB, concurrently. Compared to chemoradiation with HDC, using LDC or CB, or radiotherapy alone were associated with an increasingly worse OS; hazard ratios were 1.33, p = 0.03; 1.35, p = 0.02; and 2.12, p < 0.001; respectively. There were no differences in the rates of adverse events between the three chemoradiation regimens.

Conclusion

Chemoradiation regimen using HDC appears to be the best primary treatment for locally and regionally advanced HNSCC. Nonetheless, prospective large studies are warranted to further determine its absolute benefit.
Frequent cyclic variation of heart rate is associated with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients without ischemia
Authors: Yaegashi Takanori , Nakano Manabu , Murata Yoshiharu
Published: December 2021

Background

Cyclic variation of heart rate (CVHR) associated with sleep‐disordered breathing reflects cardiac autonomic responses to apneic/hypoxic stress. However, the association of CVHR with cardiac function is unclear.

Methods

We investigated a total of 181 patients who underwent both 24‐hour Holter electrocardiography (ECG) and quantitative gated single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) myocardial functional imaging, excluding patients with atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, structural heart disease, and implantable devices, from January 2017 to July 2018. The number of CVHR per hour (CVHR index) in sleeping‐time Holter ECG was compared with the parameters of left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic functions assessed by cardiac SPECT functional imaging, peak filling rate (PFR), first‐third mean filling rate (1/3 MFR), and time to peak filling rate (TTPF).

Results

In all patients, the CVHR index was not associated with any parameters of cardiac functions. However, in a propensity score–matched subgroup of patients without ischemia (N = 39), the CVHR index was negatively correlated with PFR (r = −0.35, P < .05) and 1/3 MFR (r = −0.37, P < .05) but positively correlated with TTPF (r = 0.43, P < .01) and was not correlated with LV ejection fraction. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that high CVHR index was independently associated with LV diastolic dysfunction, even after adjusting for the relative wall thickness and LV mass index assessed by echocardiography.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the high frequency of CVHR in sleeping time is associated with LV diastolic dysfunction in nonischemic patients, irrespective of LV geometry.
Grade classification of human glioma using a convolutional neural network based on mid‐infrared spectroscopy mapping
Authors: Peng Wenyu , Chen Shuo , Kong Dongsheng , Zhou Xiaojie , Lu Xiaoyun , Chang Chao
Published: December 2021

This study proposes a convolutional neural network (CNN)‐based computer‐aided diagnosis (CAD) system for the grade classification of human glioma by using mid‐infrared (MIR) spectroscopic mappings. Through data augmentation of pixels recombination, the mappings in the training set increased almost 161 times relative to the original mappings. The pixels of the recombined mappings in the training set came from all of the one‐dimensional (1D) vibrational spectroscopy of 62 (almost 80% of all 77 patients) patients at specific bands. Compared with the performance of the CNN‐CAD system based on the 1D vibrational spectroscopy, we found that the mean diagnostic accuracy of the recombined MIR spectroscopic mappings at peaks of 2917 cm−1, 1539 cm−1 and 1234 cm−1 on the test set performed higher and the model also had more stable patterns. This research demonstrates that two‐dimensional MIR mapping at a single frequency can be used by the CNN‐CAD system for diagnosis and the research also gives a prompt that the mapping collection process can be replaced by a single‐frequency IR imaging system, which is cheaper and more portable than a Fourier transform infrared microscopy and thus may be widely utilized in hospitals to provide meaningful assistance for pathologists in clinics.
Extracellular vesicles derived from tumour cells as a trigger of energy crisis in the skeletal muscle
Authors: Pin Fabrizio , Beltrà Marc , Garcia‐Castillo Lorena , Pardini Barbara , Birolo Giovanni , Matullo Giuseppe , Penna Fabio , Guttridge Denis , Costelli Paola
Published: December 2021

Background

Cachexia, a syndrome frequently occurring in cancer patients, is characterized by muscle wasting, altered energy and protein metabolism and impaired myogenesis. Tumour‐derived microvesicles (TMVs) containing proteins, messenger RNAs (mRNAs), and non‐coding RNAs could contribute to cancer‐induced muscle wasting.

Methods

Differential ultracentrifugation was used to isolate TMVs from the conditioned medium of Lewis lung carcinoma and C26 colon carcinoma cell cultures. TMVs were added to the culture medium of C2C12 myoblasts and myotubes for 24–48–72 h, and the effects on protein and energy metabolism were assessed. TMVs were also isolated from the blood of C26‐bearing mice. MicroRNA (miR) profile of TMVs was obtained by RNA‐seq and validated by digital drop PCR. Selected miRs were overexpressed in C2C12 myoblasts to assess the effects on myogenic differentiation.

Results

Differentiation was delayed in C2C12 myoblasts exposed to TMVs, according to reduced expression of myosin heavy chain (MyHC; about 62% of controls at Day 4) and myogenin (about 68% of controls at Day 4). As for myotubes, TMVs did not affect the expression of MyHC, while revealed able to modulate mitochondria and oxidative metabolism. Indeed, reduced mRNA levels of PGC‐1α (C = 1 ± 0.2, TMV = 0.57 ± 0.06, normalized fold change, P < 0.05) and Cytochrome C (C = 1 ± 0.2, TMV = 0.65 ± 0.04, normalized fold change, P < 0.05), associated with increased BNIP3 expression (C = 1 ± 0.1, TMV = 1.29 ± 0.2, normalized fold change, P < 0.05), were observed, suggesting reduced mitochondrial biogenesis/amount and enhanced mitophagy. These changes were paralleled by decreased oxygen consumption (C = 686.9 ± 44 pmol/min, TMV = 552.25 ± 24 pmol/min, P < 0.01) and increased lactate levels (C = 0.0063 ± 0.00045 nmol/μL, TMV = 0.0094 ± 0.00087 nmol/μL, P < 0.01). A total of 118 miRs were found in MVs derived from the plasma of the C26 hosts; however, only three of them were down‐regulated (RNA‐seq): miR‐181a‐5p (−1.46 fold change), miR‐375‐3p (−2.52 fold change), and miR‐455‐5p (−3.87 fold change). No correlation could be observed among miRs in the MVs obtained from the blood of the C26 host and those released by C26 cells in the culture medium. Overexpression of miR‐148a‐3p and miR‐181a‐5p in C2C12 myoblasts revealed the ability to impinge on the mRNA levels of Myf5, Myog, and MyHC (Myh4 and Myh7).

Conclusions

These results show that in C2C12 cultures, TMVs are able to affect both differentiation and the mitochondrial system. Such effects could be related to TMV‐contained miRs.
Reevaluation of statistically significant meta‐analyses in advanced cancer patients using the Hartung–Knapp method and prediction intervals—A methodological study
Authors: Siemens Waldemar , Meerpohl Joerg J. , Rohe Miriam S. , Buroh Sabine , Schwarzer Guido , Becker Gerhild
Published: December 2021

Using the Hartung–Knapp method and 95% prediction intervals (PIs) in random‐effects meta‐analyses is recommended by experts but rarely applied. Therefore, we aimed to reevaluate statistically significant meta‐analyses using the Hartung–Knapp method and 95% PIs. In this methodological study, three databases were searched from January 2010 to July 2019. We included systematic reviews reporting a statistically significant meta‐analysis of at least four randomized controlled trials in advanced cancer patients using either a fixed‐effect or random‐effects model. We investigated the impact of switching from fixed‐effect to random‐effects meta‐analysis and of using the recommended Hartung–Knapp method in random‐effects meta‐analyses. Furthermore, we calculated 95% PIs for all included meta‐analyses. We identified 6234 hits, of which 261 statistically significant meta‐analyses were included. Our recalculations of these 261 meta‐analyses produced statistically significant results in 132 of 138 fixed‐effect and 114 of 123 random‐effects meta‐analyses. When switching to a random‐effects model, 19 of 132 fixed‐effect meta‐analyses (14.4%) were no longer statistically significant. Using the Hartung–Knapp method in random‐effects meta‐analyses resulted in 34 of 114 nonsignificant meta‐analyses (29.8%). In the full sample (N = 261), the null effect was included by the 95% PI in 195 (74.7%) and the opposite effect (e.g., hazard ratio 0.5, opposite effect 2) in 98 meta‐analyses (37.5%). Using the Hartung–Knapp method and PIs substantially influenced the interpretation of many published, statistically significant meta‐analyses. We strongly encourage researchers to check if using the Hartung–Knapp method and reporting 95% PIs is appropriate in random‐effects meta‐analyses.
MicroRNA‐379‐5p targets MAP3K2 to reduce autophagy and alleviate neuronal injury following cerebral ischemia via the JNK/c‐Jun signaling pathway
Authors: Mo Yun , Sun Yin‐Yi , Yue Erli , Liu Yuan , Liu Kang‐Yong
Published: December 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are abundant in neurons and play key roles in the function and development of the nervous system. This study focuses on the function of miR‐379‐5p in neurological function recovery during ischemic stroke. The expression of miR‐379‐5p in the serum of patients with ischemic stroke was determined. Human cerebral cortical neuron cells (HCN‐2) were subjected to oxygen/glucose deprivation (OGD) to mimic an ischemic stroke in vitro, whereas mice subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) were used as an animal model. The serum of patients with ischemic stroke and OGD‐treated HCN‐2 cells displayed a poor expression of miR‐379‐5p. Upregulation of miR‐379‐5p reduced the OGD‐induced cell damage and decreased the expression of the autophagy marker protein Beclin1 in cells. Rapamycin, an autophagy activator, blocked the protective functions of miR‐379‐5p. Further, miR‐379‐5p directly bound to MAP3K2. MAP3K2 activated the JNK/c‐Jun signaling pathway and suppressed the neuroprotective events mediated by miR‐379‐5p. The in vitro results were reproduced in vivo, where upregulation of miR‐379‐5p reduced neurological impairment and infarct size in MCAO‐induced mice. This study suggested that miR‐379‐5p showed a neuroprotective effect on ischemic stroke and reduced autophagy of neurons through the suppression of MAP3K2 and the JNK/c‐Jun axis.
Selenium Deficiency Induces Pathological Cardiac Lipid Metabolic Remodeling and Inflammation
Authors: Tang Chaohua , Li Shuang , Zhang Kai , Li Jing , Han Yunsheng , Zhao Qingyu , Guo Xiaoqing , Qin Yuchang , Yin Jingdong , Zhang Junmin
Published: December 2021

Scope: Selenium (Se) disequilibrium is closely involved in many cardiac diseases, although its in vivo mechanism remains uncertain. Therefore, a pig model is created in order to generate a comprehensive picture of cardiac response to dietary Se deficiency.

Methods and Results: A total of 24 pigs are divided into two equal groups, which were fed a diet with either 0.007 mg kg−1 Se or 0.3 mg kg−1 Se for 16 weeks. Se deficiency causes cardiac oxidative stress by blocking glutathione and thioredoxin systems and increases thioredoxin domain‐containing protein S‐nitrosylation. Energy production is disordered, as free fatty acids are overloaded, the tricarboxylic acid cycle is strengthened, and three respiratory chain proteins enhance S‐nitrosylation. Excess free fatty acids lead to increased synthesis of diacylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine, and phosphatidylethanolamine, where the latter two are vulnerable to oxidation and causes an increase in malondialdehyde. Moreover, increased palmitic acid enhances de novo ceramide synthesis and accumulation. Additionally, Se deficiency initiates inflammation via cytosolic DNA‐sensing pathways, which activates downstream interferon regulatory factor 7 and nuclear factor kappa B.

Conclusions: The present study identifies a lipid metabolic vulnerability and inflammation initiation pathway via Se deficiency, which may provide targets for human redox imbalance‐induced cardiac disease treatment.
Thermal variation in gradient response: measurement and modeling
Authors: Nussbaum Jennifer , Dietrich Benjamin E. , Wilm Bertram J. , Pruessmann Klaas P.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Many aspects and imperfections of gradient dynamics in MRI have been successfully captured by linear time‐invariant (LTI) models. Changes in gradient behavior due to heating, however, violate time invariance. The goal of this work is to study such changes at the level of transfer functions and model them by thermal extension of the LTI framework.

Methods

To study the impact of gradient heating on transfer functions, a clinical MR system was heated using a range of high‐amplitude DC and AC waveforms, each followed by measuring transfer functions in rapid succession while the system cooled down. Simultaneously, gradient temperature was monitored with an array of temperature sensors positioned according to initial infrared recordings of the gradient tube. The relation between temperatures and transfer functions is cast into local and global linear models. The models are analysed in terms of self‐consistency, conditioning, and prediction performance.

Results

Pronounced thermal effects are observed in the time resolved transfer functions, largely attributable to in‐coil eddy currents and mechanical resonances. Thermal modeling is found to capture these effects well. The keys to good model performance are well‐placed temperature sensors and suitable training data.

Conclusion

Heating changes gradient response, violating time invariance. The utility of LTI modeling can nevertheless be recovered by a linear thermal extension, relying on temperature sensing and adequate one‐time training.