bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Política de migraciones : modificación al Decreto Ley Nº1.094 para mejorar los índices de migración irregular
Authors:   , Díaz Villanueva Rolando
Published: November 2023

En los últimos años, ha existido un alza exponencial en los flujos migratorios en Chile. Se ha diversificado la caracterización de las personas que desean migrar al país, tanto en su origen, edad, educación, entre otros. Sin embargo, la regulación migratoria se ha mantenido sin ninguna modificación sustantiva desde su creación en 1975, lo que ha generado que muchos migrantes que ingresan al país lo hagan de manera irregular. Tener un gran número de migrantes irregulares genera toda una serie de problemas, dado que estas personas se encuentran expuestas a la vulneración de sus derechos, es una pérdida en el aporte que podrían generar al mercado laboral y debilita el poder del Estado al no tener conocimiento de las personas que se encuentran en su territorio. Esta política pública busca modificar el Decreto Ley No 1.094 que establece las normas sobre extranjeros en Chile, con el objetivo de generar un nuevo sistema de visas que logre disminuir los niveles de migración irregular en Chile. Esta nueva regulación busca generar un marco regulatorio que considere los flujos migratorios que existen en la actualidad y una protección en sus derechos. Esta propuesta se basa en la experiencia comparada encontrada en Australia, Canadá y Reino Unido. Estos países se han enfrentado a contextos migratorios similares al de Chile, teniendo que generar mecanismos técnicos para que el ingreso de personas extranjeras sea un proceso sencillo y objetivo. El mecanismo de puntaje ha logrado disminuir en estos países los niveles de migración irregular, dado que generan una instancia donde el migrante puede declarar desde un inicio el motivo de su visita a Chile, sin tener que mentir para poder asentarse en el país. El debate migratorio es un problema público con un alto componente político y ético, donde se espera que la discusión tenga una serie de factores ideológicos, más que técnicos. Uno de los puntos más relevantes en la discusión de esta política, es que existe un apoyo transversal a la necesidad de modificar la regulación migratoria en Chile. Esta propuesta de política pública considera un sistema de seguimiento y evaluación. Donde existirá un panel de expertos que irá modificando periódicamente el sistema de visas, en cuanto sea necesario según indique el mercado laboral. La migración es un fenómeno dinámico que necesita una constante revisión por parte de los organismos técnicos del Estado para evitar alzas en la migración irregular. Finalmente, este cambio a la regulación debe ser considerado como un componente dentro de una modificación mayor a como se percibe la migración en Chile. Es necesario que se considere a los migrantes como un aporte en el país en ámbitos económicos, sociales y culturales.
Un organismo autónomo de regulación y fiscalización del Congreso Nacional de Chile : antecedentes y propuesta
Authors:   , Fourt Briones Valentina
Published: November 2023

El Congreso Nacional y el Sistema de Asignaciones parlamentarias han sido duramente cuestionados por la opinión pública durante los últimos años a raíz de los altos montos de las dietas y por diversas denuncias realizadas por medios de comunicación, que dejaron en evidencia la falta de transparencia y probidad en el accionar de los representantes y las debilidades del Sistema. Estos hechos han contribuido al detrimento de la legitimidad de la institucionalidad y a la escalada de la desconfianza de la ciudadanía hacia el sistema político, generándose un enorme desafío para el proceso de relegitimación. El propósito de este trabajo es convencer al lector sobre la necesidad de otorgarle mayor legitimidad a la institucionalidad política a través de un organismo autónomo que pueda decidir, controlar, fiscalizar y sancionar al margen de la influencia de los parlamentarios. Lo anterior a través de una detallada revisión descriptiva de la estructura del Sistema y su funcionamiento y del mecanismo de fijación de la dieta parlamentaria, para comprender las falencias que existen en el diseño de la política pública, de la revisión de algunos casos exitosos en el mundo y de una exploración de distintas situaciones o polémicas en las que miembros u organismos del Congreso Nacional se han visto envueltos y que han contribuido a mermar la legitimidad de la política en Chile. Se deja en evidencia los problemas del diseño institucional y se proponen cambios al mecanismo actual. Este trabajo busca aportar al debate público, que se desarrollará en el marco de la Convención Constitucional, sobre la relevancia de relegitimar la función parlamentaria y de validar el uso de recursos públicos para las labores de los y las congresistas.
La vía del semipresidencialismo en Chile : propuestas y recomendaciones a partir del caso de Francia
Authors:   , Campos Parra Hernán Javier
Published: November 2023

Los estudios que examinan los sistemas políticos latinoamericanos coinciden en la necesidad de transitar hacia un nuevo modelo de gobierno que deje atrás al clásico presidencialismo. Presidentes con baja legitimidad o la ausencia de actores que respondan ante situaciones de crisis institucional, son algunas de las motivaciones que esbozan quienes sugieren un cambio hacia un sistema político flexible que favorezca la gobernabilidad. Entre las alternativas que ha despertado interés es avanzar hacia un sistema semipresidencial. En Chile, la contienda constitucional ha reabierto el debate sobre el tipo de sistema de gobierno que se pretende implementar. El aplastante triunfo que obtuvo la opción por el cambio a la Constitución y la Convención Constitucional como órgano encargado de resolver su contenido, inició un proceso que decidirá, entre distintas materias que serán objeto de revisión, la ratificación de la actual forma de gobierno o la transición hacia un sistema remozado. Así es como la presente propuesta está orientada a los convencionales que integrarán el órgano constituyente. Para su materialización, se utiliza como prototipo el modelo de Francia. Debido a que su experiencia destaca dentro de los modelos de gobiernos mixto. De esta manera, se pretende entregar una contribución para el debate y una guía que orienta sobre los alcances que conlleva un rediseño del sistema político chileno.
Imputando la no respuesta en la preferencia electoral de las encuestas CEP de septiembre-octubre del 2013 y 2017 : un acercamiento a los indecisos
Authors:   , Soto Ramírez Tomás Ignacio
Published: November 2023

La presente tesis se encarga de evaluar si es posible mejorar la capacidad predictiva de las encuestas preelectorales en Chile por medio de técnicas de imputación de datos. Para dar respuesta a esta interrogante, los objetivos se centraron en 1) la utilización del modelo de votante probable de González y Mackenna, para tener más precisión sobre quiénes realmente votan, 2) estimar un modelo de regresión logística multinomial para identificar los predictores que indican la preferencia electoral y 3) estimar un modelo de imputación múltiple de ecuaciones encadenadas de la preferencia electoral. Para llevar a cabo los modelos de regresión multinomial y posterior imputación, se utilizaron 9 variables independientes y 1 dependiente de las encuestas CEP de septiembre-octubre de 2013 y 2017. En términos analíticos se decidió comparar la preferencia electoral en un escenario con y sin votante probable para observar sus diferencias. De lo anterior se concluye que: 1) no existe mayor diferencia entre la imputación con y sin votante probable. 2) pese a que la imputación se adapta a la distribución de la preferencia electoral en ambas mediciones, tiende a estimar de mejor manera a los candidatos de derecha por ser los que presentan una mayor fuerza predictiva en los modelos de regresión. Adicionalmente, la imputación en los candidatos con mayor favoritismo provoca que las estimacionesse alejen de los valores reales de la elección. 3) la imputación por sí sola no mejora la predicción electoral, debido a que se necesita que el instrumento logre medir la preferencia electoral de buena manera y esté lo mejor representado posible.
Custom Hiring Centers in Indian Agriculture: Evolution, Impact, and Future Prospects
Authors: Bethi Santhosh Kumar , Deshmukh Sagar Surendra
Published: November 2023

The evolution of Custom Hiring Centers (CHCs) in the context of Indian agriculture represents a century-long journey towards farm mechanization and inclusivity. This article delves into the pivotal role played by CHCs in promoting farm mechanizations and unearths the entrepreneurial ventures that have led to their significant ascent within the Indian agricultural landscape. Furthermore, it provides insights into the establishment of CHCs across various states and the government schemes in place to support their growth and development. By exploring the challenges and opportunities associated with Custom Hiring Centers, the abstract highlights the crucial role of technology in enhancing their operations. The potential of advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT), in revolutionizing CHC operations is also discussed. Overall, this article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted aspects of CHCs and their impact on Indian agriculture.
Effect of Soil Collected under Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehn on Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Development and Soil Microbial Community Structure
Authors: Diedhiou Sire , Goudiaby Arfang O. K. , Bassene Jean , Diatta Yaya , Ndoye Ibrahima , Fall Saliou
Published: November 2023

Aims: The objective of this study was to determine the effect of soil sampled under E. camaldulensis on peanut development and microbial community.
Place and Duration of Study: Soil sampling at the 0-10 cm horizon was conducted at different distances: 1.5 m, 3 m, 4.5 m, 6 m and 30 m from 3 randomly selected E. camaldulensis plants in four sites: Karamba, Nicia, Rokout and Dioncome.
Methodology: A two-factor randomized complete block design was set up in a greenhouse experiment and parameters such as chlorophyll content, acetylene reducing activity, mycorrhization rate, number of nodules, mass of dry matter and microbial community structure were studied.
Results: No significant difference was noted among the parameters regardless of the sampling distance for the Karamba, Nicia and Dioncome sites (P>0.05). In the case of Rokout site, however, the chlorophyll content measured at 4.5 m was significantly different from the chlorophyll content measured at 1.5 m from the tree. For aboveground dry biomass, no significant difference was noted regardless of sampling distance at Karamba and Rokout sites except for samples collected at 4.5 m (Pa≤0, 045; Pc≤0.029). No significant difference was also noted for root biomass regardless of sampling distance at the Karamba, Rokout, and Dioncome sites (P>0.05). However, at Nicia, the biomass of the control treatment was significantly higher compared to others (P=0.021). Nodulation did not vary according to sampling distance (P>0.05). The amount of nitrogen fixed is higher at 6 m from Eucalyptus compared to other distances at the Karamba and Nicia sites (P<0.02). In contrast, at Boucotte it is higher at 1.5 m from the tree (P<0.03). Mycorrhization intensity was significantly higher at 6 m and 30 m from the tree compared to other distances.
Conclusion: Microbial community structure differed between soil collected under and outside of the canopy of E. camaldulensis.
Mitigating Plant and Soil Health Options through Climate Resilient Maize-Mungbean Based Intercropping for Rainfed Agriculture
Authors: Khan Nasir Mehmood , Mujtaba Ghulam , Anwar Adeel , Fayyaz Fahad Ali , Khan Muhammad Ryan Ahmad , Khan Muhammad Faheem , Khan Muhammad Amaid , Khan Muhammad Aashir Bilal , Muslim
Published: November 2023

An experiment was conducted at National Agricultural Research Council (NARC), Islamabad to evaluate the response of intercropping in maize and mungbean with implementation of vermicompost (VMC) and chemical fertilizer (CF). The experiment was laid down in RCBD with split plot arrangement having three replications. The main treatments were cropping practices; sole maize (SM), sole mungbean (SM) and intercropped maize mungbean (M-Mb) though sub treatments included nutrient management practices; vermicompost (VMC) and chemical fertilizer (Urea + DAP) (CF).  The data was recorded for plant parameters of chlorophyll content (mg/g), rate of photosynthesis (µmol/s), intercellular CO2 (ppm), protein content (%) and grain yield (kg/ha) while soil parameters that were estimated included are; soil pH, electric conductivity (dS/m), cation exchange capacity (cmol/kg), exchangeable Ca (cmol/kg), exchangeable Mg (cmol/kg), soil organic matter content (%), available N (ppm), available P (ppm), available K (ppm). The analysis of the data revealed that all of the studied traits were significantly affected by the intercropping. The increased value of chlorophyll content (67.12 and 61.07 mg/g) was obtained in intercropped maize-mungbean (M-Mb) with vermicompost (VMC) treatment, maximum rate of photosynthesis (25.33 and 20.76 µmol/s) was obtained by maize and mungbean in maize-mungbean (M-Mb) intercropping along with vermicompost (VMC) treatments. Correspondingly, protein content (28.15 and 16.43 %) and grain yield (9246.1 and 1610.71 kg/ha) for maize and mungbean were improved by the application of maize-mungbean (M-Mb) and vermicompost (VMC) treatments. There was also increase in the values of soil pH EC (6.44), CEC (44.31 cmol/kg), exchangeable Ca (6.42 cmol/kg), exchangeable Mg (2.21 cmol/kg), SOM content (0.78%), available N (2.98 ppm), available P 18.67 ppm) and available K 198.76 ppm) with the implementation of vermicompost and maize-mungbean intercropping treatments. Overall, the study revealed that intercropping is a best way of increasing crop yield and quality along with the amendment of vermicompost, also bringing positive changes in the soil properties and health.
Enhanced Penetration and Retention of CuS‐Based Nanosystem Through NIR Light and In Situ Enzyme Response for Improved Tumor Therapy
Authors: Gao Fangli , Zhu Liang , Jiang Liting , Zhang Jie , Ji Shenglu , Gao Weihua , Ma Guanglei , Chang Yi , Ma Xiaoming , Guo Yuming
Published: November 2023

The efficient way to increase the therapeutic efficacy of nanomedicines is by encouraging the penetration and enhancing the retention of nanoparticles at the tumor site. However, it is a serious dilemma that small nanoparticles can penetrate deep into the tumor tissue but easily be cleared into the surrounding tissues. In order to solve this dilemma, a smart nanosystem is created to address this problem, ensuring both the effective penetration of tiny nanoparticles (NPs) and their appropriate retention at the tumor site. CuS NPs that is modified with peptides are prepared facilely, and can aggregate in situ through the intermolecular crosslinking reaction catalyzed by the transglutaminase (TGase) abundantly expressed at the tumor site, resulting in an outstanding photothermal effect for tumor therapy. Upon NIR irradiation, the photothermal effect of CuS‐K and CuS‐Q induced the disintegration of liposomes and prompted the release of CuS‐K, CuS‐Q, and indocyanine green (ICG). Simultaneously, CuS‐K and CuS‐Q aggregated under the catalysis of TGase after being internalized by tumor cells to enhance photothermal therapy. The current study provides valuable inspiration to design nanomedicines with prolonged circulation time in the blood system, better penetration, and retention at the tumor site, and multimodal tumor therapy to achieve the desired therapeutic efficacy.
Construct Robust Epitaxial Growth of (101) Textured Zinc Metal Anode for Long Life and High Capacity in Mild Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Zeping , Guo Zhikun , Fan Lishuang , Zhao Chenyang , Chen Aosai , Wang Ming , Li Meng , Lu Xingyuan , Zhang Jiachi , Zhang, Yu , Zhang Naiqing
Published: November 2023

Aqueous zinc‐metal batteries are considered to have the potential for energy storage due to their high safety and low cost. However, the practical applications of zinc batteries are limited by dendrite growth and side reactions. Epitaxial growth is considered an effective method for stabilizing Zn anode, especially for manipulating the (002) plane of deposited zinc. However, (002) texture zinc is difficult to achieve stable cycle at high capacity due to its large lattice distortion and uneven electric field distribution. Here, a novel zinc anode with highly (101) texture (denoted as (101)‐Zn) is constructed. Due to unique directional guidance and strong bonding effect, (101)‐Zn can achieve dense vertical electroepitaxy in near‐neutral electrolytes. In addition, the low grain boundary area inhibits the occurrence of side reactions. The resultant (101)‐Zn symmetric cells exhibit excellent stability over 5300 h (4 mA cm−2 for 2 mAh cm−2) and 330 h (15 mA cm−2 for 10 mAh cm−2). Meanwhile, the cycle life of Zn//MnO2 full cell is meaningfully improved over 1000 cycles.
Complete Suppression of Phase Segregation in Mixed‐Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals under Periodic Heating
Authors: Feng Shengnan , Ju Yu , Duan Rentong , Man Zaiqin , Li Shuyi , Hu Fengrui , Zhang Chunfeng , Tao Shuxia , Zhang Weihua , Xiao Min , Wang Xiaoyong
Published: November 2023

Under continuous light illumination, it is known that localized domains with segregated halide compositions form in semiconducting mixed‐halide perovskites, thus severely limiting their optoelectronic applications due to the negative changes in bandgap energies and charge‐carrier characteristics. Here mixed‐halide perovskite CsPbBr1.2I1.8 nanocrystals are deposited onto an indium tin oxide substrate, whose temperature can be rapidly changed by ≈10 °C in a few seconds by applying or removing an external voltage. Such a sudden temperature change induces a temporary transition of CsPbBr1.2I1.8 nanocrystals from the segregated phase to the mixed phase, the latter of which can be permanently maintained when the light illumination is coupled with periodic heating cycles. These findings mark the emergence of a practical solution to the detrimental phase‐segregation problem, given that a small temperature modulation is readily available in various fundamental studies and practical devices of mixed‐halide perovskites.
Hexagonal Boron Nitride Slab Waveguides for Enhanced Spectroscopy of Encapsulated 2D Materials
Authors: LaGasse Samuel W. , Proscia Nicholas V. , Cress Cory D. , Fonseca Jose J. , Cunningham Paul D. , Janzen Eli , Edgar James H. , Pennachio Daniel J. , Culbertson James , Zalalutdinov Maxim , Robinson Jeremy T.
Published: November 2023

The layered insulator hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) is a critical substrate that brings out the exceptional intrinsic properties of two‐dimensional (2D) materials such as graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). In this work, the authors demonstrate how hBN slabs tuned to the correct thickness act as optical waveguides, enabling direct optical coupling of light emission from encapsulated layers into waveguide modes. Molybdenum selenide (MoSe2) and tungsten selenide (WSe2) are integrated within hBN‐based waveguides and demonstrate direct coupling of photoluminescence emitted by in‐plane and out‐of‐plane transition dipoles (bright and dark excitons) to slab waveguide modes. Fourier plane imaging of waveguided photoluminescence from MoSe2 demonstrates that dry etched hBN edges are an effective out‐coupler of waveguided light without the need for oil‐immersion optics. Gated photoluminescence of WSe2 demonstrates the ability of hBN waveguides to collect light emitted by out‐of‐plane dark excitons.Numerical simulations explore the parameters of dipole placement and slab thickness, elucidating the critical design parameters and serving as a guide for novel devices implementing hBN slab waveguides. The results provide a direct route for waveguide‐based interrogation of layered materials, as well as a way to integrate layered materials into future photonic devices at arbitrary positions whilst maintaining their intrinsic properties.
Manganese@Albumin Nanocomplex and Its Assembled Nanowire Activate TLR4‐Dependent Signaling Cascades of Macrophages
Authors: Huang Shuodan , Gao Yan , Li Huiying , Wang Ruoran , Zhang Xiaomei , Wang Xiaoyu , Huang Di , Zhang Linxuan , Santos Hélder A. , Yin Zhenyu , Xia Bing
Published: November 2023

The immunomodulatory effect of divalent manganese cations (Mn2+), such as activation of the cGAS−STING pathway or NLRP3 inflammasomes, positions them as adjuvants for cancer immunotherapy. In this study, it is found that trace Mn2+ ions, bound to bovine serum albumin (BSA) to form Mn@BSA nanocomplexes, stimulate pro‐inflammatory responses in human‐ or murine‐derived macrophages through TLR4‐mediated signaling cascades. Building on this, the assembly of Mn@BSA nanocomplexes to obtain nanowire structures enables stronger and longer‐lasting immunostimulation of macrophages by regulating phagocytosis. Furthermore, Mn@BSA nanocomplexes and their nanowires efficiently activate peritoneal macrophages, reprogramme tumor‐associated macrophages, and inhibit the growth of melanoma tumors in vivo. They also show better biosafety for potential clinical applications compared to typical TLR4 agonists such as lipopolysaccharides. Accordingly, the findings provide insights into the mechanism of metalloalbumin complexes as potential TLR agonists that activate macrophage polarization and highlight the importance of their nanostructures in regulating macrophage‐mediated innate immunity.
Tandem Electro‐Thermo‐Catalysis for the Oxidative Aminocarbonylation of Arylboronic Acids to Amides from CO2 and Water
Authors: Mei Guoliang , Lu Yanze , Yang Xiaoju , Chen Sanxia , Yang Xuan , Yang Li‐Ming , Tang Conghui , Sun Yujie , Xia Bao Yu , You Bo
Published: November 2023

Direct CO2 electroreduction to valuable chemicals is critical for carbon neutrality, while its main products are limited to simple C1/C2 compounds, and traditionally, the anodic O2 byproduct is not utilized. We herein report a tandem electrothermo‐catalytic system that fully utilizes both cathodic (i.e., CO) and anodic (i.e., O2) products during overall CO2 electrolysis to produce valuable organic amides from arylboronic acids and amines in a separate chemical reactor, following the Pd(II)‐catalyzed oxidative aminocarbonylation mechanism. Hexamethylenetetramine (HMT)‐incorporated silver and nickel hydroxide carbonate electrocatalysts were prepared for efficient coproduction of CO and O2 with Faradaic efficiencies of 99.3 % and 100 %, respectively. Systematic experiments, operando attenuated total reflection surface‐enhanced Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy characterizations and theoretical studies reveal that HMT promotes *CO2 hydrogenation/*CO desorption for accelerated CO2‐to‐CO conversion, and O2 inhibits reductive deactivation of the Pd(II) catalyst for enhanced oxidative aminocarbonylation, collectively leading to efficient synthesis of 10 organic amides with high yields of above 81 %. This work demonstrates the effectiveness of a tandem electrothermo‐catalytic strategy for economically attractive CO2 conversion and amide synthesis, representing a new avenue to explore the full potential of CO2 utilization.
Untargeted metabolomics investigating porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus biomarkers of serum‐derived exosomes in piglets infected with PRRSV NADC30‐like CHsx1401
Authors: Cheng Feng , Li Jia , Zhou Chunxiang , Zhou Lei , Lan Ganqiu , Liang Jing , Wang Lixian , Wang Ligang
Published: November 2023

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is one of the most severe swine diseases in the pig industry. The identification of biomarkers for PRRSV infection is valuable for controlling, eliminating, and treating PRRSV. This study utilized the ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry metabolite profiling platform to identify differential metabolites in exosomes between the control and NADC30‐like PRRSV strain infected pigs. Using multivariate analysis combined with univariate analysis, unsupervised principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis models were constructed between the groups. A total of 41 differential metabolites were detected, with 14 upregulated and 27 downregulated metabolites with PRRSV infection. MetaboAnalyst and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes were used to identify potentially relevant significant pathways, and a receiver operating characteristic curve was used to quantify the predictive performance of differential metabolites. The results indicated that tryptophan‐related L‐kynurenine, 5‐hydroxytryptophan, and D (+)‐tryptophan significantly increased among PRRSV infected groups, which may play an important role in the progression of PRRSV infection. Metabolites related to amino acid synthesis and metabolism, including 2‐arachidonoylglycerol Lysopcs and phosphatidylcholines may also contribute to the lack of immune protection in piglets after PRRSV infection. Moreover, L‐kynurenine and taurocholic acid may serve as potential biomarkers for early diagnosis or drug targeting of PRRSV. Overall, these findings provide an important reference to our understanding of PRRS pathogenesis and immune or protective responses during PRRSV acute infection in the host.
Lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton using brain–computer interface based on multiband filtering with classifier fusion
Authors: Lin Chih‐Jer , Sie Ting‐Yi
Published: November 2023

In this study, we propose two adaptive frameworks based on evolutionary algorithms for improving the accuracy of motor imagery (MI) task classification. In an MI task, each participant has a different reaction time delay. In this study, the reaction delay was used as a parameter. Specifically, the time point after the reaction delay was defined as the starting point (SP) when MI began. Various classification and optimization algorithms were employed. The methods include the use of a fixed and dynamic SP for each individual, a genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization (PSO), spatial filter tuning, the use of common spatial patterns, linear discriminant analysis, bagged decision trees, convolutional neural network (CNN), and long short‐term memory (LSTM). Moreover, a dynamic optimization method for multiband filtering (MBF) method for the subbands of EEG signals was developed that improved accuracy by 5.4%. Combining MBF with bagged decision trees with PSO‐optimized parameters achieved the highest accuracy of 82.3%. Moreover, after optimization by PSO, the CNN‐LSTM method achieved a classification accuracy of 81.4% for 1‐s signals, shorter than those in other studies. The method enables the use of EEG signals to control an exoskeleton for patient rehabilitation.
Impact of proteins and protein fouling on virus retention during virus removal filtration
Authors: Afzal Mohammad A. , Zydney Andrew L.
Published: November 2023

Virus filtration is a crucial step in ensuring the high levels of viral clearance required in the production of biotherapeutics produced in mammalian cells or derived from human plasma. Previous studies have reported that virus retention is often reduced in the presence of therapeutic proteins due to membrane fouling; however, the underlying mechanisms controlling this behavior are still not well understood. Experimental studies were performed with a single layer of the commercially available dual‐layer PegasusTM SV4 virus removal filter to more easily interpret the experimental results. Bacteriophage ФX174 was used as a model parvovirus, and human immunoglobulin (hIgG) and Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) were used as model proteins. Data obtained with 5 g/L solutions of hIgG showed more than a 100‐fold reduction in virus retention compared to that in the protein‐free solution. Similar effects were seen with membranes that were pre‐fouled with hIgG and then challenged with ФX174. The experimental data were well‐described using an internal polarization model that accounts for virus capture and accumulation within the virus filter, with the hIgG nearly eliminating the irreversible virus capture while also facilitating the release of previously captured virus. These results provide important insights into the performance and validation of virus removal filters in bioprocessing.
Development and validation of method for the simultaneous determination of sulfamethazine, trimethoprim and doxycycline in veterinary formulation using high performance liquid chromatography
Authors: dos Santos Patrícia Espinosa , do Amaral Marcos Serrou , Fernando Mazon Cardoso Teófilo , Kassab Nájla Mohamad
Published: November 2023

Sulfamethazine (SMZ), trimethoprim (TMP) and doxycycline (DOXY) are drugs of choice used in the treatment of intestinal and respiratory infections that affect poultry and swine. The aim of this study was develop and validate a simple, sensitive and fast method for the simultaneous determination of SMZ, TMP and DOXY in veterinary formulations by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The separation was performed on a Macherey–Nagel C8 analytical column (4 × 125 mm, 5 μm), with a flow rate of 0.5 ml min−1 and detection at 268, 270 and 350 nm, for SMZ, TMP and DOXY, respectively. All measurements were performed in acetonitrile–water (45:55 v/v; pH 3.0). The analytical curves were linear (r > 0.9997) in the concentration range of 5.0–35.0 μg ml−1 for SMZ, 1.0–7.0 μg ml−1 for TMP and 7.0–13.0 μg ml−1 for DOXY. The method proved to be precise, robust, accurate and selective. In accelerated stability, the sample was analyzed for 6 months, with no major variations observed in organoleptic analysis and pH. Therefore, the developed method was proved to be suitable for routine quality control analyses for the simultaneous determination of SMZ, TMP and DOXY in pharmaceutical formulations.
Balloon pulmonary angioplasty for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension due to septic emboli
Authors: Steinberg Zachary L. , Rayner Samuel G. , Leary Peter J.
Published: November 2023

We present the case of a 28‐year‐old woman with a history of tricuspid valve endocarditis leading to chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) with multiple pulmonary artery chronic total occlusions (CTOs) due to septic emboli. Following a multidisciplinary care discussion, the patient was brought forward for balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) with successful revascularization of all chronically occluded territories. This case highlights advances in pulmonary artery CTO interventions and demonstrates the feasibility of BPA for CTEPH patients with a history of septic emboli.
A needle in the haystack: An unusual case presentation of ganglioneuroblastoma at a tertiary care center in Coastal Karnataka
Authors: Radhakrishnan Shalini , Rao Ranjitha , Lashkari Harsha Prasada , Kini Hema , Kini Jyoti Ramnath , Kudurugundi Vatsala Basavaraju , Ashok Vanishree , Gowthuvalli Chaithra Venkataramana
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

This case report highlights the importance of recognizing and accurately diagnosing ganglioneuroblastoma, an uncommon variant of neuroblastic tumors in children. Ganglioneuroblastomas have diverse clinical and morphological presentations, and histopathological examination is paramount in guiding treatment decisions, especially in cases with ambiguous symptoms. Early detection is crucial, as the prognosis varies significantly based on the subtype and the presence of metastatic disease. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion and utilize radiological examinations to promptly identify and treat these tumors.

Children are frequently affected by neuroblastic tumors, which grow from the sympathoadrenal lineage of the neural crest during its development. However, intermixed ganglioneuroblastomas are far less common within the same tumor spectrum, the diagnosis of which could become challenging amidst an unusual presentation. In our case report, we present a 4‐year‐old boy who had complaints of fever and difficulty in walking, with a supra‐renal mass on ultrasound, which was diagnosed as ganglioneuroblastoma‐intermixed type on histopathological examination. This report aims to contribute to the understanding of the diverse clinical and morphological spectrum of ganglioneuroblastomas and the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and histopathological examination to enhance decision‐making in such ambiguous scenarios.
Asymptomatic stones in the lacrimal canaliculus
Authors: Zhang Hongda , Xu Maosheng , Qin Guanghao , Chen Jiayan , Qi Yifan , Xu Ling , He Wei , Pazo Emmanuel Eric
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Asymptomatic lacrimal canaliculus stones causing many stones without symptoms are rare. The patient recovered well within a week after dacryolith removal. This diagnosis is prevalent in this age group. However, asymptomatic nasolacrimal obstruction should be considered.

Dacryoliths, also known as symptomatic stones, are frequently observed in the lacrimal drainage system. These stones manifest through symptoms such as conjunctivitis, discharge, and epiphora. Nevertheless, the occurrence of numerous stones in the lacrimal canaliculus, in the absence of apparent symptoms, is uncommon. In this study, we present a case with the presence of several stones within the inferior lacrimal canaliculus. A female patient, aged 74, appeared with bilateral senile cataracts and was scheduled for cataract surgery. During a standard ocular examination, it was observed that the tear meniscus height in the left eye had a greater magnitude compared with the right eye. Canaliculitis with dacryolith was verified using a series of diagnostic procedures, including physical inspection, fluorescent dye disappearance test, palpation, 50 Mhz ultrasound biomicroscope scan, and irrigation of the lacrimal canaliculi. Upon surgical investigation, the canaliculus obstruction was confirmed, characterized by the existence of many tiny dacryolith formations inside the inferior canalicular system. Following the surgical excision of the dacryoliths, the patient experienced a full remission within a week. While it is common for individuals in this age range to receive this diagnosis, it is important to consider silent nasolacrimal blockage as a potential alternative diagnosis. It is important to note that the presence of dacryoliths in the lacrimal drainage system might manifest independently of conjunctivitis. No discernible risk indicators were found in relation to the aforementioned patient.
Erythema nodosum following treatment with dasatinib plus chemotherapy in a patient with myeloid blast phase of chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Kassem Nancy , Alshurafa Awni , Elsabah Hesham , El Omri Halima
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Erythema nodosum (EN) is a type of panniculitis occurring due to various conditions. It can be associated with certain malignancies or manifest as a side effect of drugs. This article presents a unique case of EN in a patient with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML‐blast phase) following dasatinib and chemotherapy. Timely recognition and appropriate management are crucial to alleviate symptoms and consider potential drug‐induced etiology.
Accelerated Characterization of Electrode‐Electrolyte Equilibration
Authors: Kan Kevin , Guevarra Dan , Zhou Lan , Jones Ryan J. R. , Lai Yungchieh , Richter Matthias , Gregoire John M.
Published: November 2023

Operational durability is poorly characterized by traditional (photo)electrocatalyst discovery workflows, creating a barrier to scale‐up and deployment. Corrosion is a prominent degradation mechanism whose thermodynamics depend on the concentration of corrosion products in electrolyte. We present an automated system for characterizing the equilibration of (photo)electrodes with dissolved metals in electrolyte for a given electrode, pH, and electrochemical potential. Automation of electrode selection, electrolyte preparation, and electrolyte aliquoting enables rapid identification of self‐passivating electrodes and estimation of the equilibrium dissolved metals concentrations. The technique is demonstrated for metal oxide photoanodes in alkaline electrolyte, where BiVO4 is found to continually corrode, in agreement the literature. An amorphous Ni−Sb−O photoanode is found to passivate with a Ni‐rich coating on the order of 1 monolayer with less than 1 μM total dissolved metals in electrolyte, demonstrating its suitability for durable photoelectrochemical operation. The automation and throughput of the instrument are designed for incorporation in accelerated electrocatalyst discovery workflows so that durability can be considered on equal footing with activity.
Halogen Substitution Regulates High Temperature Dielectric Switch in Lead‐Free Chiral Hybrid Perovskites
Authors: Ju Tong‐Yu , Liu Cheng‐Dong , Fan Chang‐Chun , Liang Bei‐Dou , Chai Chao‐Yang , Zhang Wen
Published: November 2023

Hybrid metal halides (HMHs) based phase transition materials have received widespread attention due to their excellent performance and potential applications in energy harvesting, optoelectronics, ferroics, and actuators. Nevertheless, effectively regulating the properties of phase transitions is still a thorny problem. In this work, two chiral lead‐free HMHs (R‐3FP)2SbCl5 (1; 3FP=3‐fluoropyrrolidinium) and (R‐3FP)2SbBr5 (2) were synthesized. By replacing the halide ions in the inorganic skeleton, the phase transition temperature of 2 changes with an increase of about 20 K, compared with 1. Meanwhile, both compounds display reversible dielectric switching properties. Through crystal structure analysis and Hirshfeld surface analysis, their phase transitions are ascribed to the disorder of the cations and deformation of the inorganic chains.
Direct Experimental Observations of Ion Distributions during Overcharging at the Muscovite‐Water Interface by Adsorption of Rb+ and Halides (Cl−, Br−, I−) at High Salinity
Authors: Neumann Julia , Lee Sang Soo , Zhao Eric J. , Fenter Paul
Published: November 2023

The front cover artwork is provided by Argonne National Laboratory. The image shows the arrangement of correlated cations and anions at a charged solid surface in contact with highly concentrated electrolyte solutions. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/cphc.202300545.
Molecular Engineering of Copper Phthalocyanine for CO2 Electroreduction to Methane
Authors: Chen Jin‐Mei , Xie Wen‐Jun , Yang Zhi‐Wen , He Liang‐Nian
Published: November 2023

Efficient electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (ECO2RR) to multi‐electron reductive products remains a great challenge. Herein, molecular engineering of copper phthalocyanines (CuPc) was explored by modifying electron‐withdrawing groups (EWGs) (cyano, sulfonate anion) and electron‐donating groups (EDGs) (methoxy, amino) to CuPc, then supporting onto carbon paper or carbon cloth by means of droplet coating, loading with carbon nanotubes and coating in polypyrrole (PPy). The results showed that the PPy‐coated CuPc effectively catalysed ECO2RR to CH4. Interestingly, experimental results and DFT calculations indicated EWGs markedly improved the selectivity of methane for the reason that the introduction of EWGs reduces electron density of catalytic active center, resulting in a positive move to initial reduction potential. Otherwise, the modification of EDGs significantly reduces the selectivity towards methane. This electronic effect and heterogenization of CuPc are facile and effective molecular engineering, benefitting the preparation of electrocatalysts for further reduction of CO2.
Seed sourcing for climate‐resilient grasslands: The role of seed source diversity during early restoration establishment
Authors: Lindstrom Jessica , Ahlering Marissa , Hamilton Jill
Published: November 2023

Restoration advocates for the use of local seed in restoration, but theory suggests that diverse seed sources may enhance genetic diversity and longer term evolutionary potential within restored communities. However, few empirical studies have evaluated whether species and genetic diversity within species impacts plant community composition following restoration. The goal of this research is to compare the effects of single and multi‐sourced seed mix treatments on plant community diversity following restoration. Species establishment, abundance, and diversity were compared following two restoration seed mix treatments created to include 14 species commonly used in grassland restoration. We compared the application of seed mixes designed using a single population per species with those containing five populations per species across sites in Minnesota and South Dakota, United States. Early plant establishment and richness mostly reflected non‐seeded species across both sites, although seeded species established at a slightly higher rate in year two following restoration. At the South Dakota site, community composition largely reflected changes associated with establishment across the growing season as opposed to seed mix treatment. This contrasted with the Minnesota site, where community composition appeared to be strongly influenced by seed mix treatment. While there is some evidence seed mix treatment may be influencing the emergent community across sites, spatial heterogeneity across the Minnesota restoration site likely influenced diversity in early emergence over that of seed mix treatment. Indeed, varying land‐use history across both sites likely contributed to differences in species composition observed at this early stage of the restoration. This suggests that seed mix treatment may have limited impact on early post‐restoration emergence diversity relative to the importance of land‐use history. However, future monitoring will be needed to evaluate whether the impact of seed mix treatment on community composition changes over time.
The 10‐year follow‐up of a community‐based cohort of people with diabetes: The incidence of foot ulceration and death
Authors: Mohammed Shijat Ali , Crawford Fay , Cezard Genevieve Isabelle , Papathomas Michail
Published: November 2023

Background

Identifying people with diabetes who are likely to experience a foot ulcer is an important part of preventative care. Many cohort studies report predictive models for foot ulcerations and for people with diabetes, but reports of long‐term outcomes are scarce.

Aim

We aimed to develop a predictive model for foot ulceration in diabetes using a range of potential risk factors with a follow‐up of 10 years after recruitment. A new foot ulceration was the outcome of interest and death was the secondary outcome of interest.

Design

A 10‐year follow‐up cohort study.

Methods

1193 people with a diagnosis of diabetes who took part in a study in 2006–2007 were invited to participate in a 10‐year follow‐up. We developed a prognostic model for the incidence of incident foot ulcerations using a survival analysis, Cox proportional hazards model. We also utilised survival analysis Kaplan–Meier curves, and relevant tests, to assess the association between the predictor variables for foot ulceration and death.

Results

At 10‐year follow‐up, 41% of the original study population had died and more than 18% had developed a foot ulcer. The predictive factors for foot ulceration were an inability to feel a 10 g monofilament or vibration from a tuning fork, previous foot ulceration and duration of diabetes.

Conclusions

The prognostic model shows an increased risk of ulceration for those with previous history of foot ulcerations, insensitivity to a 10 g monofilament, a tuning fork and duration of diabetes. The incidence of foot ulceration at 10‐year follow‐up was 18%; however, the risk of death for this community‐based population was far greater than the risk of foot ulceration.
The ailments that stem from cheese and relevant precautions taken in the Ottoman Empire from the 19th century to the 20th century
Authors: Erkmen Ayşe , Tüzün Nevim , Erkmen Osman
Published: November 2023

The increase in cheese production, sale, and consumption due to the settled lives of societies has led to an increase in cheese‐related diseases. It has become essential to better understand cheese‐borne diseases and to develop control measures. In this study, cheese‐related diseases and precautions taken in the Ottoman Empire from the 19th to the 20th centuries were investigated in Ottoman archival sources. Of these documents, cheese spoilage was detected in 12 and cheese‐related disease in 9. Cheeses that caused diseases or disorders in the relevant period were called spoiled cheese. One document states that a person died of a cheese‐borne illness. Cheese poisoning occurs mainly from unsalted, fresh cheeses. It has been determined that tin‐free copper pots were used in cheese production and sales and covered with herbs such as hemlock during maturation. In the relevant period, microbiological and chemical analyses of cheeses in terms of health were carried out in food control laboratories. Since the mercury chloride solution is used to disinfect animal udders, it has been stated that it contaminates the milk used in cheese production. Authorities have requested a boric acid solution (5% boric acid in hot water) instead of this solution for udder disinfection. In the Ottoman Empire, it was requested to take necessary sanitation and hygiene measures to prevent spoilage and cheese‐related diseases in the production areas or sales places of cheese. Clean and tinned containers should be used in cheese production, storage, and sale, and poisonous herbs should not be used during cheese ripening. It was also essential to analyze them in laboratories at internal and external customs. Knowing the precautions taken in the past to prevent the deterioration of food or the occurrence of diseases has led to modern food safety practices being applied today.
An exploration of potential raw materials for prehistoric pottery production in the Tao River Valley, Gansu Province, China
Authors: Dammer Evgenia , Hein Anke , Spataro Michela
Published: November 2023

Northwest China is known for its Majiayao‐style Neolithic painted pottery which has received much praise for its high level of craftsmanship, yet its chain of production, in particular the step of raw material selection, is still poorly understood. To fill this lacuna, the present study explores the raw materials used in producing these wares from a geological and technological perspective. At its core stands the first geoarchaeological survey conducted around the eponymous site of Majiayao which collected 47 samples of raw materials suitable for ceramic production including clay, loess and rocks, which were all analysed macroscopically. A selection was analysed using thin‐section petrography, and a subset of the clay and loess samples were subjected to firing experiments. Additionally, three clay samples were analysed by scanning electron microscope with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometer to understand their composition and behaviour in ceramic production. These were then compared to archaeological ceramics, thus providing insights into raw‐material availability and selection that will be of importance not only for research on Majiayao‐style pottery but also for later‐period ceramics produced in the area. This research shows how an archaeologically informed geological survey can contribute insights into human–environment interaction in early pottery production, especially the interplay between raw‐material availability, technological know‐how and potters' choices.