bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building the City Now!: Towards a Pedagogy for Transdisciplinary Urban Design
Authors: Masip Bosch Enric , Sezneva Olga
Published: December 2019

This paper presents and discusses the unique experience of a training program in urban design, directed by the authors, which facilitated an exchange, integration and new advancement of the pedagogy and knowledge of diverse fields concerned with the city: Building The City Now! A joint effort between Catalan architects and Russian academia and businesses with support from European experts, BCNow!’s first edition became a training ground for fifteen Russian professionals and activists from diverse backgrounds in Saint Petersburg in 2014-2015 seeking to explore an alternative understanding of the city and its production in their practices. Based on the idea of transdisciplinarity, the program was developed with a hands-on approach. This paper reflects on the experience and lessons from BCNow! contextualizing it in the existing traditions of urban thinking, discusses the idea of transdisciplinarity by relating it to comparable experiences, and zooms onto the specifics of the curriculum providing concrete illustrations of the training and its outcomes.
Retrato hablado del pasado. Un documento social de Taller de Barrios
Authors: Sáez Gutiérrez Nicolás Antonio , Burdiles Cisterna Carmen Gloria , Lagos Vergara Rodrigo , Maureira Ibarra Luis Felipe
Published: December 2019

Retratar el mundo es una actividad fundacional en la enseñanza de la Arquitectura. Los/as estudiantes producen imágenes quirográficas, hechas con la mano (croquis), e imágenes técnicas, que ocupa una máquina como mediador (cámaras y ordenadores). En la actualidad la predilección por la imagen técnica digital ha hecho, por un lado, mermar paulatinamente el uso del dibujo a mano, y por otro ha ido imponiendo su ficción como cultura visual hegemónica. La habilidad de imaginar queda aplastada por la imaginería virtual omnipresente.. En la escuela de Arquitectura de la Universidad del Bíobío, se realiza desde el 2016 una iniciativa denominada “Taller de Barrios” (TB) donde su objetivo principal es trabajar en contextos reales. La presente comunicación cuenta sobre los aspectos teóricos y metodológicos de un documento social de TB que visibiliza, en una ilustración quirográfica, la memoria subjetiva de habitantes de un territorio en estudio.

To portray the world is a foundational activity in architectural education. The students produce chirographic images done by hand (drawings, sketches) and also technical images that use machines as mediators (cameras, computers). The current predilection for digital images has lessen the use hand drawing. This on the one hand. On the other, it has imposed its fictional visual character as a cultural hegemony. The ability to imagine is squashed by the omnipresent virtual imagery. Since 2016, a pedagogical initiative called Taller de Barrios takes place at the School of Architecture at Bío-Bío University. Its main objective is to work in real contexts. This work deals with the theoretical and methodological aspects of chirographic images, a social document whereby TB makes visible the subjective memory of the people that inhabits the territory under study.
Las revistas de arquitectura. Una herramienta para la docencia en Historia de la Arquitectura
Authors: Palomares Figueres Maite , Iborra Bernad Federico Javier
Published: December 2019

Las revistas de arquitectura son el mejor testimonio de la actualidad pasada. En su momento tuvieron una función precisa: la de informar a los profesionales de lo que se producía en otras regiones e inspirar de algún modo la evolución de la arquitectura. Sin embargo, en la actualidad estas revistas duermen en los estantes de las hemerotecas, consultadas únicamente por historiadores o curiosos. Han pasado a ser historia y, como tal, proponemos aquí su utilización como herramienta pedagógica dentro de la disciplina de Historia de la Arquitectura.

Architecture magazines are the best testimony of the past present. At the time they had a precise function: inform professionals of what was happening in other regions and, somehow, inspire the evolution of architecture. However, today these magazines lie on the shelves of the newspaper archives, consulted only by historians or curious. They have become history and, as such, we propose here their use as a pedagogical tool within the discipline of History of Architecture.
La historia de la arquitectura y la restauración en el siglo XXI: utilidad y reflexiones
Authors: La Spina Vincenzina , Iborra Bernad Federico
Published: December 2019

¿Para qué sirve enseñar Historia de la Arquitectura en el siglo XXI? Siempre que se plantea esta pregunta, se piensa en la labor del proyectista contemporáneo y de la arquitectura de nueva planta. Sin embargo, la importancia creciente de la actividad restauradora, en la que cada vez participan más profesionales, invita a una nueva reflexión sobre el tema. Esta comunicación pretende reivindicar una visión diferente de la “utilidad” de la Historia de la Arquitectura, exponiendo también algunas experiencias docentes desarrolladas en la Universidad Politécncia de Cartagena (UPCT) y la Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV).

What is the use of teaching History of Architecture in the 21st century? Whenever this question is posed, the work of the contemporary designer and the new architecture is considered. However, the growing importance of restorative activity, in which more and more professionals participate, invites a new reflection on the topic. This paper aims to claim a different view of the "utility" of the History of Architecture, also exposing some teaching experiences developed at the Universidad Politécncia de Cartagena (UPCT) and the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV).
Aprendizaje activo en Urbanismo: aproximación global desde una formación local
Authors: Soto Caro Marcela Andrea , Barrientos Díaz Macarena Paz
Published: December 2019

El escenario actual que enfrenta la educación en arquitectura y urbanismo plantea nuevos desafío: por una parte, un contexto urbano cada vez más complejo en términos sociales, culturales y de estructura urbana. Y por otra, un estudiante que presenta nuevas competencias, asociadas a la disrupción tecnológica, los nuevos modos de interacción social y la generalización de la educación. Más allá de la puesta en práctica de nuevas metodologías docentes, el objetivo frente a ello es formar profesionales capaces de ser parte de un complejo ambiente construido a partir de una valoración integral de sus propias competencias. Las implicancias que la globalización ha tenido en las problemáticas urbanas, permite que desde una formación local podamos establecer una aproximación global a las mismas; con el objetivo de mejorar la calidad de la enseñanza-aprendizaje en las asignaturas lectivas de arquitectura y urbanismo.

Architectural education is facing a current scenario that poses new challenges: on one hand, an increasingly complex urban context in social, cultural and urban structure terms. And on the other, a student who presents new skills, related to the technological revolution, new modes of social interaction and the generalization of education. Beyond the implementation of new pedagogycal methodologies, the objective is to train professionals capable of being part of this new and complex built environment based on an integral assessment of their own competences. The implications that globalization has had on urban problems, allows us to establish a global approach to them from a local trainning; with the aim of improving the quality of teaching-learning process in architecture and urbanism.
Et bofællesskab og en bevægelse: en antropologisk analyse af økosamfundsaktivisme på tværs af skalaer
Authors: Hansen Anette Høite
Published: December 2019

The commitment to work for a sustainable transition of society has increased greatly among grassroots in recent years. Hence, civil society has taken matter into its own hands instead of waiting for action to take place on a political and structural level. Activist movements with clear political agendas have traditionally been explored and researched as examples of civil society’s way of showing engagement. However, more recently social scientific literature has turned attention towards another kind of engagement. This type of engagement is represented by different lifestyle movements that have an interest in the practices of socalled everyday makers and practivists. This article follows this approach and explores activism from an everyday practical perspective through qualitative research studies of Danish eco-communities. Whereas studies of lifestyle movements often focus on individual sustainable practice, this article includes collective achievements where sustainable lifestyle is practiced with the purpose of making a successful community. The article shows how the (micro activist) change making collective practices that are taking place locally in eco-communities are represented by (the macro activist) networkers at a larger scale through their work for change outwards in society; on a national level in the Danish Association of Eco-communities (LØS) and on a global level in the Global Ecovillage Network (GEN). The article thus describes, how activism on different scales – practivism, microactivism, and macroactivism – are practiced in Danish eco-communities as well as in the Eco-Community Movement. The article thereby argues how these scales of activism mutually reinforce each other by ensuring that local eco-communities are liveable and that eco-community principles gain ground in ‘mainstream society’.
Juan Luís Chulilla, creador de Tinta-e
Authors: Melenchón Maldonado Javier , Martorano Anna
Published: December 2019

Juan Luís Chulilla es un antropólogo peculiar: se dedica tanto a la etnografía tradicional como a la online. Trabaja principalmente con el impacto, valores y prácticas de los ciudadanos al utilizar tecnologías web para empresas y organizaciones, pero además, como nos contará en la entrevista, es un veterano blogger creador de Tinta-e.
De las pegatinas a los iconos. Una práctica sobre licencias y derechos de autor
Authors: Boixadera Moisès
Published: December 2019

Proponiéndose poner en práctica los conocimientos adquiridos sobre licencias y las combinaciones entre ellas, Moisés Boixadera, creó una obra derivada a partir de dos imágenes y expuso el resultado con su correspondiente licencia derivada. En el siguiente artículo, Boixadera comparte su práctica sobre licencias y derechos de autor.
Podcasts para fotografía
Authors: Marín Antoni
Published: December 2019

¿Qué resulta más efectivo, un discurso más formal y estructurado sobre unos contenidos didácticos, o una presentación más personal ligada a un nivel que implica también el relato de algunas vivencias personales? Antoni Marín reflexiona sobre ello y nos presenta su proyecto para añadir ficción a parte de los contenidos didácticos de la asignatura de Fotografía digital del Grado de Multimedia, en un formato que permita...
How do Auditors Navigate Conflicting Logics in Everyday Practice?
Authors: Barac Karin , Gammie Elizabeth , Howieson Bryan , Van Staden Marianne
Published: December 2019

Historically professional logic has shaped accountancy, increasingly it has been shaped also by commercial logic. This study moves beyond these distinctions for a better and more nuanced analyses of how actors (Big 4 auditors) navigate conflicting logics in their everyday practice. The study follows a qualitative approach and is based on views of multiple role players in the audit process of complex companies in Australia, South Africa and the United Kingdom. The study examines auditors’ decision-making involving experts, rotating partners/firms and meeting regulatory inspection requirements. The study adds to the emerging debate around logic multiplicity at the institutional ‘coalface’ by showing that auditors use balancing mechanisms (segmenting, assimilating, bridging and demarcating) to navigate and make sense of coexisting (professional, commercial and accountability) logics. Views of non-auditor role players, mostly overlooked in by institutional research at micro-levels, challenge the institutionalisation of connected logics and question the influence on audit quality.
Mortalidad por desnutrición en el adulto mayor, Colombia, 2014-2016
Authors: Rodríguez Magda Ginnette , Sichacá Elba Giomar
Published: December 2019

Introducción. En el contexto de la salud pública y la nutrición, las personas mayores se consideran un colectivo vulnerable. Los programas de atención en salud dan prioridad a los hábitos alimentarios y a la vigilancia del estado nutricional para mejorar su pronóstico vital.Objetivo. Estimar los casos de muerte por desnutrición de la población mayor de 65 años en Colombia entre el 2014 y el 2016, para contribuir al análisis y la toma de decisiones en salud encaminadas a mejorar la situación nutricional de esta población.Materiales y métodos. Se trata de un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo en el cual se analizaron los certificados de defunción de los años 2014 a 2016, cuya causa básica de muerte fuesen las deficiencias y anemias nutricionales. Se estimaron las tasas de mortalidad por sexo y departamento de residencia, y las frecuencias de distribución según las variables demográficas.Resultados. Las defunciones por desnutrición en Colombia para el adulto mayor en el periodo de estudio, fueron 3.275 (0,5 % del total de muertes). La tasa de mortalidad varió entre 5,4 y 108,3 por cada 100.000 adultos mayores. La mayor mortalidad se presentó en los mayores de 80 años, especialmente en hombres.Conclusión. La desnutrición proteico-calórica en los adultos mayores es la causa más frecuente de muerte por desnutrición, seguida de las anemias nutricionales. La mayor mortalidad se presentó en el grupo de edad de mayores de 80 años, y en los departamentos de Amazonas, Guainía y Vaupés, los cuales tienen las mayores tasas para todos los grupos de edad.
Concentration-dependent polymorphism of insulin amyloid fibrils
Authors: Sakalauskas Andrius , Ziaunys Mantas , Smirnovas Vytautas
Published: December 2019

Protein aggregation into highly structured fibrils has long been associated with several neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. Polymorphism of amyloid fibrils increases the complexity of disease mechanisms and may be one of the reasons for the slow progress in drug research. Here we report protein concentration as another factor leading to polymorphism of insulin amyloid fibrils. Moreover, our data suggests that insulin amyloid conformation can self-replicate only via elongation, while seed-induced nucleation will lead to environment-defined conformation of fibrils. As similar observations were already described for a couple of other amyloid proteins, we suggest it to be a generic mechanism for self-replication of different amyloid fibril conformations.
The Roles of Different Sugar Sources on the Quality of Nigella Enriched Tomato Ketchup
Authors: Rahman Tripty Mahbuba , Akter Ashrafi , Jahan Ismat , Islam Md. Ahmadul , Mazumder Md. Anisur Rahman
Published: December 2019

The study was concerned to evaluate the effect of table sugar, honey and zero-calorie sugar on the quality of nigella enriched tomato ketchup. Ketchup was prepared by mixing 5, 10 and 15% nigella paste with tomato pulp. The variations in taste, color and texture were analyzed based on the consumers’ acceptability and 5% nigella paste was appropriate for product development. Three different types of sugar source (table sugar/honey/zero-calorie sugar) were used to prepare nigella enriched tomato ketchup. Moisture content and total soluble solids (TSS) were significantly lower in the sample S2 (tomato ketchup prepared with honey) which was 64.00±1.75% and 18.00±1.8%, respectively. Sample S1 (tomato ketchup prepared with table sugar) contained higher moisture content (65.40±1.55%); though it's not significantly different with sample S3 (tomato ketchup prepared with zero-calorie sugar). Sample S3 contained significantly (p<0.05) higher amount of TSS (25±1.6%) than other samples. In case of color analysis, it was observed that L*, a* and b* value reduced for all samples when treated with sodium benzoate but not significantly different. Sensory analysis suggested that sample S1 was suitable for the processing of nigella enriched tomato ketchup.
An Overview of Schistosomiasis in Africa: Evolutional Origin and Diagnostic Challenges
Authors: Abdullahi Hudu Shuaibu , Umar Shuaibu
Published: December 2019

Schistosomiasis is an overlooked tropical illness that is caused by the blood fluke that dwells human blood vessels. It manifest as an acute yet chronic sickness and is normally found in all developing nations with poor health services frameworks. Strong phylogenies dependent on molecular data of species in the family of Schistosoma have been produced lately. The impressive advancement made in understanding the connections between considerable perceived types of Schistosoma is explored with specific consideration being given to the discovery and investigation of parasite variety as reported by studies on ribosomal RNA qualities, mitochondrial DNA and Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA. Generally, molecular phylogenies concur with perceptions depending on morphological or life-history attributes. Basically the parasites of man don't form a monophyletic group and that cozy connections exist between parasites inside species groups, particularly in the S. haematobium group of species. The S. japonicum group has all the hallmarks of being the most dissimilar of the species groups but then little DNA succession variety has been seen between different isolates of S. japonicum. Diagnosis is a key to all aspects of schistosomiasis and decision on individual and community treatment, estimations on prognosis and appraisal of dismalness, assessment of chemotherapy and control estimates all require the outcomes from diagnostic tests. Unfortunately, the present techniques are characterized by analytical flaws.
Screening of Adulterants in Slimming Herbal Formulation by FTIR Analysis
Authors: Khare Bhawana , Kumar Mishra Munish , Kesharwani Lav
Published: December 2019

Herbal formulations are used worldwide during these days specifically as the remedy of some commonly occurring health problems such as diabetes, obesity and digestive disorder. As the use and demand of these herbal formulations have increased, cases of adulteration of herbal formulations with synthetic pharmaceuticals have also increased. The main reason behind the adulteration in herbal formulation with the synthetic drug is to get commercial gain by increasing effectiveness of the herbal formulation. As the use of herbal slimming formulation is on the rise in India due to increasing problem of obesity, therefore, the main aim of the present study is to analyze the herbal slimming formulations present in the Indian market for the presence of synthetic pharmaceuticals by FTIR method. Out of 20 herbal slimming formulations analysed, 7 herbal slimming samples were detected with the presence of synthetic drugs such as Modafinil, Salbutamol, Phenolphthalein and Caffeine. In our study, FTIR has proven an effective method for screening of synthetic pharmaceutical in Herbal formulations.
Assessment of Anaerobic Co-Digestion Effects of Maize Cob and Poultry Manure on Biogas Yields and Their Digestate Characteristics
Authors: Chomini M. S. , Joshua V. I.
Published: December 2019

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the effects of anaerobic co-digestion of maize cob and poultry manure on biogas yields and their digestate characteristics.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Forestry Technology, Federal College of Forestry, Jos between March and April, 2018.

Methodology: Slurries of five co-substrate treatment ratios viz 0:1(T1), 1:3(T2), 1:1(T3), 3:1(T4) and 1:0(T5) of these wastes (in three replicates) were separately fed to 13.6L locally made batch-digesters. The anaerobic reactors were monitored for a 56 day retention period. Weekly biogas yields and some digestate characteristics were measured by standard methods.

Results: The cumulative biogas yields was in the order of T3(2481.3 mL/kg) >TI(2197.9 mL/kg) > T4(2163.0 mL/kg) > T2(2116.3 mL/kg) >T5(1713.2 mL/kg), in favor of the mixed substrates. While the percentage C:N reductions ranged from (12.94% - 81.80%), with T5 and T1 recording the highest and lowest values respectively. The chemical oxygen demand removal was in the order of T3(80.70%) > T4(58.00%) >T5(46.81%) >T1(34.15%) >T2(13.16%). The anaerobic digestion (AD) effected reductions in Mg, C, Ca, P, Mn, Zn, Fe, Pb and increase in Cu contents of the digestates across treatments. While the K contents increased in T2(36.72%), T3(229.79%) and T4(220.51%); %N in T3(9.94%), T4(113.19%) and T5(291.84%) and Na increased only in T4(4.55%). The Cu contents indicated % increase in the order of T5(487.5%) >T3(270.97%) >T2(268.10%) >T4(43.66%) >T1(35.82%).

Conclusion: The anaerobic co-digestion of these organic wastes had unlocked the alternative energy potentials, enhanced the bioremediation tendency, while promoting sustainable public health and environmental management.
Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. Seeds on Reproductive System of Male Albino Rats
Authors: Singh Madhulika , Verma G. N.
Published: December 2019

Aims: The present study was undertaken to assess the antispermatogenic and antifertility efficacy of ethanolic extract of Trigonella foenum-greacum seeds.

Methodology: Aqueous solution of the extract (250 mg/kg b.wt/day) when administered orally for 45 days to adult male albino rat (Duckray strain).

Results: Seeds extract caused inhibition of spermatogenesis as well as inability to mate with normal untreated female rats of proven fertility. There occurred a significant decrease in absolute and relative weights of testis and seminal vesicle and increase in epididymal weight, whereas of ventral prostate and coagulating gland remained unchanged. Sperm concentration and motility in the cauda epididymis was also decreased. Increased incidence of separation of head and tail pieces of spermatozoa was seen in the epididymal smear. Histologically, testis of experimental animals showed arrest of spermatogenesis at the secondary spermatocytes stage and there was deposition of cellular debris in semineferous tubular lumen. The spermatids were not properly developed and interstitial cells were very sparse and degenerated. However, there was no evidence of damage to the spermatogonia. Oral treatment of extract did not affect the body weight of animals. Quantitative estimation of marker testicular enzymes, e.g., sorbitol dehydrogenase showed a significant decrease whereas lactate dehydrogenase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase levels were significantly increased.

In conclusion: These results suggest that T. foenum-greacum, may induce male infertility in rats, therefore, should be considered further as a potential male antifertility agent.
A Clinical Trial of Cranberry and Elderberry Extracts (Berdi® Sachet) for Urinary Tract Infection in Pakistani Population
Authors: Mehmood Yasir , Umar Hafiz , Riaz Humayun , Farooq Umar , Yousaf Hammad
Published: December 2019

Lower urinary tract infection (UTI) is very common diseases. Recurrent UTI remain challenging to treat because the main treatment option is long-term antibiotic and this poses a risk for the emergence of bacterial resistance. Some options to avoid this risk are available, including the use of cranberry and elderberry products (herbal products extract). However, this can lead to the advent of bacterial resistance. The cross sectional study was designed to evaluated the efficacy of above products.  The study was conducted from 23 October 2019 to 28 October 2019 in Arif Memorial Teaching Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. The subjects were outpatients aged 20 to 65 years. UTI symptoms were recorded in the daily diary before, during and after treatment and assessed by the Jackson score. Following approval by the Ethics Committee of Rashid Latif Pharmacy College, the questionnaire (ROUTE2-002) was compiled and information of UTI patients using cranberry and elderberry extracts (Berdi® Sachet) was collected. Compliance and tolerability were considerable obstacles in this study. A total of 67 patients were screened for participation; 12 were unwilling to participate and 55 were enrolled for clinical trial and all patients had urinary tract irritation. In this study 55 (100%) UTI patients were cured with cranberry and elderberry extracts (Berdi® Sachet). Further investigation is needed to confirm this effect and to evaluate the health benefits of cranberries and elderberry.
Effects of Nitrogen and Carbon Sources on Biosurfactant Production by Hydrocarbon-utilizing Stenotrophomonas sp.
Authors: Ezebuiro Victor , Jonathan Otaraku Ipeghan , Oruwari Boma , Chijioke Okpokwasili Gideon
Published: December 2019

Aim: This study investigated effects of nitrogen and carbon sources on the production of biosurfactant by a hydrocarbon-utilizing bacterium, Stenotrophomonas sp.

Methodology: The hydrocarbon-utilizing bacterium was isolated with Bushnell Haas (BH) broth using enrichment method. Biosurfactant production was screened by evaluating the following characteristics: Emulsification index (E-24), oil spreading (displacement), tilted glass slide, haemolysis on blood agar, and lipase production. Effects of combination of nitrogen sources (yeast extract and NH4NO3, yeast extract and urea, yeast extract and asparagine, yeast extract and peptone, NaNO3 and peptone, NaNO3 and asparagine, and yeast extract and NaNO3) and carbon sources (glucose, fructose, galactose, cassava peel, soya bran, olive oil, sucrose, crude oil, diesel and glycerol) on biosurfactant production were determined with emulsion stability and surface tension as responses. The bacterium was identified based on phenotypic, microscopic, and biochemical characteristics.

Results: The isolate produced colonies on BH agar containing either naphthalene or hexadecane as sole source of carbon after 48-h incubation. Screening characteristics for the production of biosurfactant by the isolate were as follows: 46% emulsification index, 3.1 cm2 oil displacement, 1.8 cm zone of clearance on tributyrin agar, γ-haemolysis, and positive tilted glass slide. The best carbon source with the highest emulsion stability (51.6%) was fructose whereas the best surface tension reduction (30.85 mN/m) was observed with olive oil as carbon sources after 7 days of incubation. For nitrogen, the combination of yeast extract and NH4NO3 gave the highest emulsion stability (60.7%) and the best surface tension reduction (39.58 mN/m). The data obtained were significant at P<0.05 and the bacterial isolate identified as Stenotrophomonas sp.

Conclusion: This study has demonstrated the ability of the hydrocarbon-utilizing bacterium, Stenotrophomonas sp. to produce biosurfactant, indicated by reduction of surface tension and formation of stable emulsion. This method of biosurfactant production can be further scaled up for industrial purpose.
The Low-Cost, Battery-Powered AI-Enabled Ultrasound Device That Could Improve Global Obstetric Care
Authors: Perlis Roy , Schweitzer Kate
Published: December 2024

This Medical News article is an interview with Jeffrey S. A. Stringer, MD, whose commitment to global health equity has led to advancements in artificial intelligence-enabled tools that can accurately estimate gestational age during pregnancy without trained sonographers.
Overheated Self‐Managing Cellulose Nanocage Dressing by Reconstructing Hydrogen Bonds Networks
Authors: Chen Rimei , Lu Qin , Sun Yupei , Xie Zhen , Zhu Hongxiang , Bu Qing , Sun Runcang , Wang Shuangfei , He Hui
Published: December 2024

Interfacing intelligent responsive molecules with biocompatible nanofibers is a promising strategy for developing overheated self‐managing photothermal dressings for convenient and cost‐effective clinical applications. Here, an anisotropic staggered cellulose nanocage dressing with overheated self‐managing properties is constructed by temperature‐responsive flexible triblock copolymer Pluronic® F‐127 interpenetrating with smart cellulose nanofiber network skeleton, which interfaced with white light (635 nm) responsive protoporphyrin IX, and NIR‐I (808 nm) responsive dopamine, NIR‐II (980 nm) responsive upconversion nanoparticles. Ingeniously, the dressing can release 1O2 and produce heat energy under the stimulation by continuous natural light and NIR‐I laser during the anti‐inflammation phase, respectively, and further promote the formation of new capillaries by producing NO during the epithelial formation stage under NIR‐II laser. Interestingly, the dressing, which resembled water droplets, can penetrate and adapt to irregular wounds via sol–gel transformation at 32 °C, while also facilitating intelligent management of the self‐cooling regulation via the reconstruction of its hydrogen bond network driven by overheating temperatures (>50 °C). The proposed method overcomes the shortcoming of requiring auxiliary strategies for temperature monitoring, providing new insights for guiding the design of practical dressings.
Breaking Kinetic Barriers in Silicon Anodes via Strategic Electrolyte Additive Engineering
Authors: Deng Yingkang , Li Chengfeng , Guo Ruoyu , Xie Zhangyating , Huang Lingling , He Jiarong , Xing Lidan , Li Weishan
Published: December 2024

The silicon anode is one of the primary contenders for lithium‐ion batteries of higher energy density owing to its outstanding theoretical capacity. However, the native SiO₂ layer (2–5 nm) on commercial silicon nanoparticles severely limits ion transport and induces polarization, especially under high current densities. This study systematically examines the influence of SiO₂ layer thickness on silicon anode performance, identifying significant polarization as the main barrier to stable cycling. To tackle this, a strategic electrolyte additive is suggested, bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BTA), which mitigates these effects by scavenging inactive SiO₂ and promoting the formation of conductive LixSiOy intermediates. Experimental and computational results show that BTA dramatically reduces electrochemical polarization and enhances Li⁺ transport, leading to superior cyclic stability. The Si anode with BTA‐modified electrolyte maintains 1436.5 mAh g−1 after 120 cycles at 500 mA g−1—substantially outperforming the base electrolyte (894.5 mAh g−1). This work highlights a critical strategy for overcoming kinetic barriers and advancing silicon anodes toward practical, high‐density energy applications.
Uncovering Required Molecular Properties for Interface Regulators and Modification Mechanisms for Zn Anode in Aqueous Batteries
Authors: Wang Kuo , Zhan Hongtu , Liu Xiao‐Xia , Sun Xiaoqi
Published: December 2024

Inhomogeneous deposition and side reactions at Zn anode in aqueous batteries seriously limit the electrochemical performance. Electrolyte additives at low content are desired, and the uncovery of fundamental required molecular properties is necessary. Herein, systematic studies are carried out to reveal factors showing correlations with the interface regulation effect and stability of the Zn electrode, which presents a screening rule for electrolyte additives. Accordingly, a phosphoramide (PA) molecule stands out as a suitable interface regulator with only 0.1% addition. Further analysis demonstrates the transformation of Zn2+ solvation structures from water‐dominated in the bulk electrolyte to PA and anion participation toward the Zn surface. The latter helps to homogenize Zn2+ flux, modulate desolvation paths, regulate deposition kinetics, and suppress side reactions, which ensures the uniform and dense plating of Zn. Even with the high depth of discharge/capacity of 52.2%/50 mAh cm−2 and 92.4%/88.5 mAh cm−2, symmetric Zn cells still reach 392 h and 140 h lifespans, respectively, superior to PA‐free cells (fails before 2 cycles/cannot cycle). The 0.1% PA additive also enables stable cycling for full cells.
Unique Non‐Chelating Multidentate Ligand Tuning Solvation Structure and Interfacial Chemistry for High‐Voltage Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Lian Jing , Tan Shendong , Lou Jiatao , Lan Jiaqi , Cui Wenting , Han Zhuo , Zheng Guorui , Hou Tingzheng , Lv Wei , Liu Ming , Wang Ziqiang
Published: December 2024

Electrolyte engineering is a key strategy for achieving high‐energy lithium metal batteries. Among various solvents, fluorinated ether‐based electrolytes have shown promising results. However, these solvents often have several limitations: weak solvating ability, electrochemical reduction instability, and potential environmental hazards. Herein, a novel cyanated hexacyclic ether electrolyte (CHEE) is reported. The terminal cyano group (─CN) of solvent facilitates efficient Li+ transport through its coordination ability, while the electron‐withdrawing nature of ─CN weakens the solvating ability of the ether oxygen atom. This modification leads to anion‐dominated solvation structures, wherein the nitrogen atom serves as the primary coordination site in the coordinated solvent. This unique non‐chelating, multidentate ligand enables a robust solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) and excellent electrochemical performance of lithium metal batteries. CHEE enables a Li–Cu cell to achieve a high coulombic efficiency of 99.5%, while a Li‐NMC811 cell demonstrates a capacity retention of 91% after 300 cycles. Notably, the Li‐NMC811 cell maintains stable cycling for 200 cycles at an elevated temperature of 60 °C. Furthermore, CHEE enables the operation of a Li‐NMC811 pouch cell with a low N/P, achieves a high capacity of 1.25 Ah. This study highlights the potential of cyanated ether in developing novel electrolyte systems for high‐performance lithium metal batteries.
Application of Adipose Extracellular Matrix and Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites for Spinal Cord Injury Repair
Authors: Verstappen Kest , Bieler Lara , Barroca Nathalie , Bronkhorst Ewald M. , Couillard‐Després Sébastien , Leeuwenburgh Sander C.G. , Marques Paula A.A.P. , Klymov Alexey , Walboomers X. Frank
Published: December 2024

Graphene‐based materials (GBMs) hold strong promise to restore the spinal cord microenvironment and promote functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Nanocomposites consisting of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and adipose tissue‐derived extracellular matrix (adECM) are known to promote neuronal growth in vitro and to evoke a biocompatible response in vivo when implanted on top of the intact spinal cord. In this study, pristine adECM and adECM‐rGO nanocomposites are implanted directly after hemisection SCI in rats. Scaffolds composed of collagen type I (COL) are applied as negative control, based on evidence that COL triggers integrin‐mediated astrogliosis. However, COL scaffolds induce orthotopic bone formation in the lesion site and are therefore excluded from further analyses. Compared to pristine adECM, adECM‐rGO nanocomposites completely restore spinal cord integrity. Macrophage‐mediated uptake and clearance of rGO remnants is observed as early as 3 weeks post‐implantation. Nanocomposites show an elevated presence of βIII‐tubulin‐positive axons in the host‐material interface after 8 weeks, yet scaffold penetration by axons is only occasionally observed. This is partially due to an increased expression of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) within the nanocomposites, even though reactive astrogliosis is unaltered. Despite the complete restoration of tissue architecture, adECM‐rGO treatment does not significantly improve functional recovery.
Highly Efficient Synthesis of α‐Amino Acids via Electrocatalytic C‐N Coupling Reaction Over an Atomically Dispersed Iron Loaded Defective TiO2
Authors: Zhu Zhonghuan , Jiang Yimin , Xu Leitao , An Qizheng , Nga Ta Thi Thuy , Chen Junlin , Fan Yun , Liu Qinghua , Dong Chung‐Li , Wang Shuangyin , Zou Yuqin
Published: December 2024

The synthesis of α‐amino acids via the electrocatalytic C‐N coupling attracted extensive attention owing to the mild reaction conditions, controllable reaction parameters, and atom economy. However, the α‐amino acid yield remains unsatisfying. Herein, the efficient electrocatalytic synthesis of α‐amino acids is achieved with an atomically dispersed Fe loaded defective TiO2 monolithic electrocatalyst (adFe‐TiOx/Ti). The desired electrocatalyst composition for the hydrogenation of oxime is screened. The prepared adFe‐TiOx/Ti exhibited a high glyoxylic acid conversion of ≈100% and a glycine selectivity of 80.2%. The electrochemical experiments and theoretical calculations demonstrated that atomically dispersed Fe (adFe) sites and oxygen vacancies (OVs) enhanced the adsorption of glyoxylic acid (GA), glyoxylic oxime (GO), and nitrate (NO3−). adFe sites further promote the step of H2NO* → H2NOH* in the conversion of NO3− to hydroxylamine (NH2OH) and the step of NH‐CH2‐COOH* → NH2‐CH2‐COOH* in the reduction of GO to glycine. The coupling pathway and the critical intermediate are revealed by synchrotron radiation Fourier transform infrared (SR‐FTIR) spectroscopy and differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS). Additionally, six other α‐amino acids are successfully synthesized by the adFe‐TiOx/Ti, showcasing its versatility in the electrosynthesis of α‐amino acids. This work provides an efficient electrocatalyst for the C‐N coupling synthesis of α‐amino acids.
High Defect Tolerance Breaking the Design Limitation of Full‐Spectrum Multimodal Luminescence Materials
Authors: Zhang Pan , Zhao Xiaohui , Jia Zhenwei , Dong Jiabin , Liang Tianlong , Liu Yue , Cheng Qilin , Ding Liqun , Wu Li , Peng Dengfeng , Kong Yongfa , Zhang Yi , Xu Jingjun
Published: December 2024

With the development of optical anti‐counterfeiting and the increasing demand for high‐level information encryption, multimodal luminescence (MML) materials attract much attention. However, the discovery of these multifunctional materials is very accidental, and the versatile host suitable for developing such materials remains unclear. Here, a grossite‐type fast ionic conductor CaGa4O7, characterized by layered and tunnel structure with excellent defect tolerance, is found to meet the needs of various luminescent processes. Almost all luminescent modes, including down/up‐conversion luminescence (DCL/UCL), long persistent luminescence (LPL), mechanoluminescence (ML), and X‐ray excited optical luminescence (XEOL), are realized in this single host. Full‐spectrum (from violet to near‐infrared) photoluminescence and ML as well as multicolor XEOL are achieved by simply changing the doped luminescent center. A series of anti‐counterfeiting devices, including the quasi‐dynamic display of famous paintings, digital information encryption, and multi‐color handwritten signatures, are designed to show the encryption of information in temporal and spatial dimensions. This study clarifies the importance of defect tolerance of the host for the development of MML materials, and provides a unique insight into the cross‐field applications of special functional materials, which is a new strategy to accelerate the development of novel MML materials.
Stretchable Multimodal Photonic Sensor for Wearable Multiparameter Health Monitoring
Authors: Guo Jingjing , Tuo Jialin , Sun Jiangtao , Li Zhuozhou , Guo Xiaoyan , Chen Yanyan , Cai Rong , Zhong Jing , Xu Lijun
Published: December 2024

Stretchable sensors that can conformally interface with the skins for wearable and real‐time monitoring of skin deformations, temperature, and sweat biomarkers offer critical insights for early disease prediction and diagnosis. Integration of multiple modalities in a single stretchable sensor to simultaneously detect these stimuli would provide a more comprehensive understanding of human physiology, which, however, has yet to be achieved. Here, this work reports, for the first time, a stretchable multimodal photonic sensor capable of simultaneously detecting and discriminating strain deformations, temperature, and sweat pH. The multimodal sensing abilities are enabled by realization of multiple sensing mechanisms in a hydrogel‐coated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) optical fiber (HPOF), featured with high flexibility, stretchability, and biocompatibility. The integrated mechanisms are designed to operate at distinct wavelengths to facilitate stimuli decoupling and employ a ratiometric detection strategy for improved robustness and accuracy. To simplify sensor interrogation, spectrally‐resolved multiband emissions are generated upon the excitation of a single‐wavelength laser, utilizing upconversion luminescence (UCL) and radiative energy transfer (RET) processes. As proof of concept, this work demonstrates the feasibility of simultaneous monitoring of the heartbeat, respiration, body temperature, and sweat pH of a person in real‐time, with only a single sensor.
Durable Thin‐Film DLC on Wafer Surfaces of Gravure Cylinders for Roll‐to‐Roll Printing of 1‐Bit Electrodes and Microtext in Flexible Electronics and Graphic Security
Authors: Seetharamiahsrinivasaraju Chandramohan , Shetty Ronit , Saxena Shivi , Sharma Priyanka , Cohen Donald , Springstead James , Oldenzijl Rudie
Published: December 2024

Diamond‐Like Carbon (DLC), a thin‐film material, is emerging as a promising alternative for durable surfaces due to its eco‐friendly application process. This study evaluated the use of thin‐film DLC on the wafer surface of gravure cylinders for roll‐to‐roll printing of fine‐line electrodes and microtext patterns, specifically for applications in flexible electronics and graphics security. Results suggested that using thin film DLC on the wafer surface allows reliable reproduction of isometric grids and line structures with widths of 15, 20, and 30 µm, as well as solid electrodes. The uniform conformity of thin‐film DLC on the wafer surface, featuring an engraved micron‐size cell structure, demonstrates superior ink transfer onto flexible PET (polyethylene terephthalate) substrates. This results in increased electrode line width and reduced electrical resistance compared to chrome. Statistical analysis confirmed the reliability and repeatability of the findings. Visual analysis of lines and microtext also demonstrated the reliable print‐reproducing capabilities of DLC‐coated surfaces. Overall, these results suggest that thin‐film DLC is a promising alternative for use as a protective layer on gravure wafer surfaces. It has the potential to produce high‐quality, high‐volume electronics, such as sensors, antennas, and batteries, for applications in the Internet of Things (IoT) and other sustainable technologies.
Efficiency Boost in Through Space Charge Transfer Emitters: Insights from Spiro Lateral Rocking Confinement
Authors: Liu Rui‐Hong , Li Meng‐Tian , Yang Yue‐Jian , Ge Shi‐Jie , Qu Zhi‐Hao , Feng Zi‐Qi , Wang Yu , Yu Zhe‐Hong , Zhou Dong‐Ying , Zhong Cheng , Liao Liang‐Sheng , Jiang Zuo‐Quan
Published: December 2024

Intramolecular through‐space charge‐transfer (TSCT) excited states have emerged as promising candidates for thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters. This study addresses the challenges in tuning excited state dynamics through conformational engineering, which significantly impacts exciton utilization. An effective strategy is presented to enhance the performance of TSCT‐TADF molecules by restricting the lateral rocking of the spiro unit via immobilizing groups, which indirectly adjusts the conformations of the donor and acceptor subunits. This approach is successfully illustrated with two TSCT‐TADF emitters, 8PhDM‐B and 8PyDM‐B, featuring sterical aryl phenyl and pyridine substitutions at the C8 site of a rigid spiro‐fluorene bridge. Organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) utilizing these emitters demonstrated impressive maximum external quantum efficiencies of 33.1% and 31.0%, respectively. The findings underscore the importance of the rocking confined strategy in refining excited state dynamics, thereby providing valuable insights for the design of highly efficient OLED emitters.
PRMT1 Promotes the Self‐renewal of Leukemia Stem Cells by Regulating Protein Synthesis
Authors: Zhou Min , Huang Yi , Xu Ping , Li Shuyi , Duan Chen , Lin Xiaoying , Bao Shilai , Zou Waiyi , Pan Jingxuan , Liu Chang , Jin Yanli
Published: December 2024

The application of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has revolutionized the management of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). However, disease relapse and progression particularly due to persistent leukemia stem cells (LSCs) remain a big challenge in the clinic. Therefore, validation of the therapeutic vulnerability in LSCs is urgently needed. This study verifies the critical role of protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) in the maintenance of CML LSCs. It is found that PRMT1 promotes the survival and serially plating abilities of human primary CML LSCs. Genetic deletion of Prmt1 significantly delays the leukemogenesis and impairs the self‐renewal of LSCs in BCR‐ABL–driven CML mice. PRMT1 regulates LSCs and leukemia development depending on its methyltransferase activity. Pharmacological inhibition of PRMT1 activity by MS023 remarkably eliminates LSCs and prolongs the survival of CML mice. Mechanistical studies reveal that PRMT1 promotes transcriptional activation of ribosomal protein L29 (RPL29) via catalyzing asymmetric dimethylation of histone H4R3 (H4R3me2a) at its gene promoter region. PRMT1 augments the global protein synthesis via RPL29 in CML LSCs. Taken together, the findings provide new evidence that histone arginine methylation modification regulates protein synthesis in LSCs and highlight PRMT1 as a valuable druggable target for patients with CML.
Potential guidelines for cataract surgery and rehabilitation in visually impaired patients: Literature analysis
Authors: Limoli Paolo Giuseppe , Limoli Celeste , Nebbioso Marcella
Published: December 2024

Cataracts can reduce the quality of vision in visually impaired patients who already have a visual impairment. The most common causes of low vision include age‐related macular degeneration (AMD), high myopia (HM), diabetic retinopathy (DR), glaucoma (GL), and inherited degenerative ocular diseases. The surgery aims to improve their independence, quality of life, and ability to engage in daily, social, and work activities. Phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, combined with visual rehabilitation, can improve visual acuity of visually impaired patients. Therefore, comprehensive guidelines for cataract surgery in patients with low vision would be beneficial to ensure optimal surgical outcomes by improving surgical planning, execution, and postoperative care, along with a well‐coordinated rehabilitation process. In cases of reduced metabolism, such as low vision, oxidative stress can be aggravated by light exposure and surgical interventions. Thus, maintaining redox balance is crucial for stabilizing retinal conditions. Patients with visual impairments rely on retinal regions with the greatest residual function, and cataract surgery aims to enhance focus on these areas, improving reading quality and reducing scotoma perception. Thorough informed consent is crucial, ensuring that patients are fully aware of the potential risks, benefits, and limitations of surgery. Close postoperative follow‐up in the first 6 months is crucial to detect and manage any complications promptly, such as reactivation of maculopathy. The aim of this work is to establish potential guidelines for optimal rehabilitation outcomes through careful literature analysis.