bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semiotic Analysis of Culture in ELT Curriculum through EIL: ‘Prospect series’
Authors: Sahraee Mobina
Published: May 2018

The current study intended to examine the representation of culture in Iranian locally developed ‘Prospect series’ textbooks in light of English as an international language (EIL). The study engages EIL and Cultural Semiotics adapted by Dinh (2016b) as the theoretical and analytical frameworks to explore culture across texts, visuals and tasks. The conversation sections of ‘Prospects 1, 2, and 3’ including texts, visuals, and tasks were investigated. The findings reveal that 1) culture is evident in both implicit and explicit manners in texts and visuals; however, it is limitedly represented in the tasks, 2) expanding circle cultural content dominates the textbooks, 3) cultural diversity has not much been attended to, and in-depth levels of culture belonging to ‘small’ c categories and socio-cultural awareness are neglected, 4) there is indexical relation between texts and visuals, and occasional detached mismatch between texts and visuals, and 5) majority of questions are language and information-based while speculative and comparative questions addressing culture are extremely limited. The findings are discussed in light of existing studies, and some recommendations are suggested for textbook writers, curriculum developers, and researchers in the field.
Análisis de la política de promoción de exportaciones no tradicionales a terceros mercados en El Salvador 1980-1991
Authors: Benítez Oscar A. , Ayala Mauricio
Published: May 2018

No abstract availableRealidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 39, 1994: 383-405
Bases de las relaciones laborales: perspectivas en El Salvador
Authors: Dennery Louis Gérard
Published: May 2018

No abstract availableRealidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 40, 1994: 563-577
La escuela rural. Educación para la comunidad ...sin la comunidad
Authors: Pérez Miguel Luis
Published: May 2018

No abstract availableRealidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 40, 1994: 617-652
Capitalismo, ecocidio, genocidio: el clamor de los pueblos indígenas
Authors: Girardi Giulio
Published: May 2018

No abstract availableRealidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 41, 1994: 669-698
Las Fuerzas Armadas salvadoreñas
Authors: Samour Héctor
Published: May 2018

No abstract availableRealidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 41, 1994: 747-783
Cosas de estudiantes
Authors: Montoya Aquiles
Published: May 2018

No abstract availableRealidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 41, 1994: 827-832
Bilateral aberrant internal carotid arteries discovered during myringotomy: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Hudon Marc Antoine , Aron Margaret , Gervais Mireille
Published: May 2018

The aberrant course of the intratympanic carotid artery is a rare congenital vascular anomaly. We report the case of a 7-year-old patient who presented with bilateral conductive hearing loss, originally attributed to otitis media with effusion. After myringotomy, massive pulsatile bleeding occurred on the right side. The bleeding was successfully controlled with packing without any residual complication. Imaging confirmed aberrant internal carotid arteries abutting the tympanic membranes bilaterally.
Building the integrated system of urological services: The impact on utilization and cost of care
Authors: O. Apolihin , I. Sheiman , S. Shishkin , M. Katibov
Published: May 2018

Integrated pathways are commonly seen as the way to strengthen service delivery in many countries. Russia has traditionally had a multilevel system of care that consists of facilities varying in terms of the complexity of cases treated. The attempts are currently made to strengthen this system with an emphasis on closer interaction between individual providers. The recent innovation is to establish a new intermediate level of inter-district specialty centers that serve the population of a few local areas and provide additional services. The early detection of new cases and their follow-up management have been activated as a part of a new model. It is piloted in a Russian region with the focus on the cases of benign prostate hyperplasia. The objective of the paper is to present the new model and to evaluate its first impact on urological service performance. The major findings include: 1) the growth of the new urological cases detected at the level of primary care and a gradual decline in the frequency of the most complicated and neglected cases; 2) the optimization of patients flows across the levels of service delivery – the rise in the utilization at the first levels of service delivery and the decline in the share of tertiary care; 3) the need for additional funding to treat the increased number of cases, with the first signs of slowing down this process; 4) a decrease in unit costs as the result of the changes in the structure of new cases, shifts in the utilization of care by the levels of service delivery. These trends are discussed with the focus on the identification of strengths and weaknesses of the new model, as well as the ways to ensure its sustainability.The major lesson learnt is that building a multilevel system of service delivery can be seen as the instrument of integration of care and efficiency savings for a country with limited financial resources for health. This process should go parallel with more profound changes in the health system, of which the most important is strengthening primary care, particularly coordination function of general practitioners.
Catalogação e tecnologia: interseções com a Web Semântica
Authors: Arakaki Felipe Augusto , Simionato Ana Carolina , Santos Plácida Leopoldina Ventura Amorim da Costa
Published: May 2018

Introdução: Os ambientes digitais se constituem em espaços importantes para geração e recuperação de recursos informacionais. Nesse contexto, é importante que o bibliotecário conheça as tecnologias disponíveis para melhorias nos processos de descrição, importação, transmissão, organização, indexação, armazenamento, localização, recuperação, visualização e preservação dos recursos informacionais.  Objetivo: Nesse contexto, o objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar a inserção da tecnologia e suas projeções para Catalogação. Metodologia: O método utilizado consiste em uma análise exploratória da literatura disponível sobre o tema proposto, permitindo a construção de um conhecimento teórico sobre a Catalogação frente as tecnologias, auxiliando na compreensão do contexto apresentado. Resultados: Como resultados é apresentado um panorama das mudanças do processo da Catalogação influenciado principalmente da proposta da família dos Requisitos Funcionais (FR) e da Web Semântica, em especial do Linked Data. Conclusões: Considera-se que o impacto da tecnologia sobre as atividades do bibliotecário, proporciona maior agilidade no processo de alimentação do catálogo.
Lei de acesso à informação: um marco no processo democrático
Authors: Monteiro Luciano Araujo
Published: May 2018

Introdução: Vivemos num período em que as instituições democráticas deste país, pertencentes ao poder público, estão em descrédito perante a sociedade civil brasileira. Neste contexto, é imperativa a disponibilização de informações governamentais a todos os cidadãos. Objetivo: Este artigo visa apresentar a importância dos Arquivos como instituições de custódia documental, discutindo, paralelamente, a Lei de Acesso à Informação (LAI), nº 12.527/2011 e observando até que ponto ela é seguida no Brasil. Metodologia: Para realizar este trabalho foi estabelecida uma análise bibliográfica, associada à comparação de iconografia, de teor estatístico. Resultados: Como resultados obtidos, foi evidenciado que a lei já citada não é cumprida na maior parte dos municípios analisados, assim como o Ministério Público e o Judiciário são as instituições que mais se recusam a dar acesso aos documentos requeridos. Conclusão: Podemos concluir que, em nossa sociedade, os interesses privados imperam sobre o interesse público e, torna-se necessário que a LAI seja mais bem divulgada pelos meios de comunicação de massa e pelas instituições de ensino (públicas e privadas), para que os consulentes possam fazer valer seus direitos de ter acesso às informações transparentes e corretas.
Vlogs literários: O incentivo à leitura por meio da mídia social digital YouTube
Authors: Pereira Gleice , Guimarães Rachel Cristina Mello , Santo Gilcelene Pereira do
Published: May 2018

Introdução: O crescente uso das redes sociais pela sociedade e em especial por estudantes de todos os níveis escolares e um indicador que merece a atenção da biblioteconomia. Objetivo: Caracterizar vlogueiros literários no ambiente YouTube analisando o conteúdo de vlogs literários e os comentários pertinentes ao universo literário nos vídeos hospedados na plataforma.  Metodologia: Análise da netnografia e do conteúdo dos vlogs, a partir de como vlogs literários podem ser utilizados por bibliotecários para o desenvolvimento do habito de leitura.  Resultados: Verificou-se que há uma potencialidade no uso dos vlogs literários como instrumento de fomento á leitura na biblioteca escolar. Conclusão: Os vlogueiros literários ou booktubers exercem uma influência sobre os internautas que visualizam o vídeo.
Extended Marginal Homogeneity Model Based on Complementary Log-Log Transform for Square Tables
Authors: Saigusa Yusuke , Maruyama Tomohisa , Tahata Kouji , Tomizawa Sadao
Published: May 2018

For square contingency tables with the same ordinal row and column classifications, McCullagh (1977) gave the marginal cumulative logistic model, which is an extension of the marginal homogeneity (MH) model using the logit transform. The present paper proposes a different extension of the MH model using the complementary log-log transform. In addition, the present paper gives the theorem that the MH model is equivalent to the proposed model and the equality of row and column marginal means holding simultaneously. In data analysis, if the MH model fits the data poorly, the theorem may be useful for seeing the reason for the poor fit. As example, the occupational status data for British father-son pairs are analyzed.
On the Trapped Surface Characterization of the Black Hole Region in Kerr Spacetime
Authors: Kumah Mohammed , Oduro Francis
Published: May 2018

Black holes are classically characterized by event horizon which is the boundary of the region from which particles or photons can escape to infinity in the future direction. Unfortunately this characterization is a global concept as the knowledge of the whole spacetime is needed in order to locate a black hole region and the event horizon. It is therefore important to recognize black holes locally; this has motivated the need to use local approach to characterize black holes. Specifically, we apply covariant divergence and Gauss’s divergence theorems to compute the divergences and the fluxes of appropriate null vectors in the Kerr spacetime to actually determine the existence of trapped and marginally trapped surfaces in its black hole region.
Theoretische vernieuwing in de criminologie
Authors: van Swaaningen René , Schuilenburg Marc
Published: May 2018

Theoretical innovation in criminology

This article starts off with an exposé of what ‘theoretical innovation’ means in the social sciences. The development of criminology is considered to be a result of (1) historical and cultural developments, (2) political-economic developments, (3) developments in other academic disciplines and (4) reactions to or specifications of other theoretical perspectives in criminology itself. Paradigm shifts in criminology are characterised by an individualistic and positivist aetiological turn in its early days; a sociological turn towards a ‘criminology of the lawmaker’ from the late 1950s on; and a return to positivism in the neoliberal and neoconservative turn of the 1990s. The new century ushers in a new epistemological break in criminology, in which globalisation, global warming, migration, human rights and the implications of cyberspace ‘force’ criminologists to overcome their anthropocentric and colonial character biases.
Het ‘cyborg crime’-perspectief
Authors: van der Wagen Wytske
Published: May 2018

The ‘cyborg crime’ perspective. Theoretical innovation in the digital age

This study departs from the notion that current high-tech crime developments bring various new challenges for the rather anthropocentric, instrumental and dualistic theoretical repertoire of criminology. The article reflects on these challenges and proposes the alternative ‘cyborg crime’ perspective. This concept is the result of an explorative research on the theoretical potential of the actor-network theory (ANT) for cybercrime. The study concludes that ANT and the ensuing cyborg crime perspective enables to grasp certain dimensions of cybercrime more profoundly. ANT can move us (criminologists) beyond the classical novelty debate surrounding cybercrime and stimulate theoretical innovation.
Redescription ofPhymolepis cuifengshanensis(Antiarcha: Yunnanolepididae) using high-resolution computed tomography and new insights into anatomical details of the endocranium in antiarchs
Authors: Wang Yajing , Zhu Min
Published: May 2018

Background

Yunnanolepidoids constitute either the most basal consecutive segments or the most primitive clade of antiarchs, a highly diversified jawed vertebrate group from the Silurian and Early Devonian periods. Although the general morphology of yunnanolepidoids is well established, their endocranial features remain largely unclear, thus hindering our further understanding of antiarch evolution, and early gnathostome evolution.Phymolepis cuifengshanensis, a yunnanolepidoid from the Early Devonian of southwestern China, is re-described in detail to reveal the information on endocranial anatomy and additional morphological data of head and trunk shields.

Methods

We scanned the material ofP. cuifengshanensisusing high-resolution computed tomography and generated virtual restorations to show the internal morphology of its dermal shield. The dorsal aspect of endocranium inP. cuifengshanensiswas therefore inferred. The phylogenetic analysis of antiarchs was conducted based on a revised and expanded dataset that incorporates 10 new cranial characters.

Results

The lateroventral fossa of trunk shield and Chang’s apparatus are three-dimensionally restored inP. cuifengshanensis. The canal that is positioned just anterior to the internal cavity of Chang’s apparatus probably corresponds to the rostrocaudal canal of euantiarchs. The endocranial morphology ofP. cuifengshanensiscorroborates a general pattern for yunnanolepidoids with additional characters distinguishing them from sinolepids and euantiarchs, such as a developed cranio-spinal process, an elongated endolymphatic duct, and a long occipital portion.

Discussion

In light of new data fromPhymolepisandYunnanolepis, we summarized the morphology on the visceral surface of head shield in antiarchs, and formulated an additional 10 characters for the phylogenetic analysis. These cranial characters exhibit a high degree of morphological disparity between major subgroups of antiarchs, and highlight the endocranial character evolution in antiarchs.
Early and long-term results of minimally invasive mitral valve surgery through a right mini-thoracotomy approach: a retrospective propensity-score matched analysis
Authors: Mkalaluh Sabreen , Szczechowicz Marcin , Dib Bashar , Sabashnikov Anton , Szabo Gabor , Karck Matthias , Weymann Alexander
Published: May 2018

Background

Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MVS) via right mini-thoracotomy has recently attracted a lot of attention. Minimally invasive MVS shows postoperative results that are comparable to those of conventional MVS through the median sternotomy as per various earlier studies.

Methods

Between 2000 and 2016, a total of 669 isolated mitral valve procedures for isolated mitral valve regurgitation were performed. A propensity score-matched analysis was generated for the elimination of the differences in relevant preoperative risk factors between the cohorts and included 227 patient pairs. Only degenerative mitral valve regurgitation was included. The aim of our study was to examine if the minimally MVS is superior to the conventional approach through sternotomy based on a retrospective propensity-matched analysis. The primary endpoints were early mortality and long-term survival. The secondary endpoints included postoperative complications.

Results

The in-hospital mortality rate was significantly higher within the conventional sternotomy cohort (3.1%, n = 7 vs 0.4%, n = 1 for the minimally invasive cohort; p = 0.032). The incidence of stroke and exploration for bleeding was comparable. In contrast, the necessity for dialysis was significantly lower in the minimally invasive cohort (p = 0.044). Postoperative pain was not significantly lower in the minimally invasive MVS cohort (p = 0.862). While patients who underwent minimally invasive MVS experienced longer bypass and cross-clamp times, their lengths of stay in the intensive care unit and in the hospital, did not differ from the conventionally operated collective (p = 0.779 and p = 0.516), respectively. The mitral valve repair rate of 81.1% in the minimally invasive cohort was significantly superior to that of the conventional approach, which was 46.3% (p < 0.0001). The one-, five-, and 10-year survival rates were significantly higher in the minimally invasive cohort compared to the conventional approach (96%, 90%, and 84% vs. 89%, 85%, and 70%; log rank p = 0.004).

Conclusion

Despite prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamping times, the minimally invasive MVS may be considered a safe approach that is equivalent to standard median sternotomy with lower early mortality and superior long-term survival.
Antioxidant status of rats’ blood and liver affected by sodium selenite and selenium nanoparticles
Authors: Urbankova Lenka , Horky Pavel , Skladanka Jiri , Pribilova Magdalena , Smolikova Vendula , Nevrkla Pavel , Cernei Natalia , Lackova Zuzana , Hedbavny Josef , Ridoskova Andrea , Adam Vojtech , Kopel Pavel
Published: May 2018

Background

Selenium is an essential element; however, at higher doses, it can be toxic. Therefore, alternative nanotechnological solutions are required to overcome toxicological issues, rather than conventional alternatives. Nanoparticles show new and promising properties that may be able to suppress toxicity while maintaining the positive effects of selenium on an organism. The aim of the experiment was to determine the influence of sodium selenite and selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) on the antioxidant status of rats.

Methods

The males of the outbreed rat strain Wistar albino were selected as a model organism. Animals were fed different forms of selenium. The control group was given a mixture without selenium addition, whereas other groups were fed a mixture containing sodium selenite, Se-49, and Se-100 SeNPs respectively. The duration of the trial was 30 days.

Results

Analysis of blood and liver was performed where the concentration of reduced (GSH) and oxidised (GSSG) glutathione, and total selenium content were measured. In the liver, a significant reduction in GSSG was found for all experiment groups. Blood samples showed a significant reduction in GSH and an increase in GSSG.

Discussion

These results show that SeNPs may be an alternative to dietary selenium for animal organisms.
Redescription and affinities ofHulsanpes perlei(Dinosauria, Theropoda) from the Upper Cretaceous of Mongolia
Authors: Cau Andrea , Madzia Daniel
Published: May 2018

Hulsanpes perleiis an enigmatic theropod dinosaur from the Baruungoyot Formation (?mid- to upper Campanian, Upper Cretaceous) of Mongolia. It was discovered in 1970, during the third Polish-Mongolian paleontological expedition to the Nemegt Basin. The taxon is known based on a partial braincase and an incomplete right hindlimb. However, the braincase fragment has never been described nor illustrated. We redescribe all elements that form the holotype ofHulsanpesand discuss the affinities of this taxon. The braincase fragment is interpreted as belonging to the inner ear region, and includes the floccular recess and part of the labyrinth.Hulsanpes perleiis confirmed as a valid taxon, diagnosed by a unique combination of metatarsal characters, including two autapomorphies. Historically, it represents the oldest record of the recently-established clade Halszkaraptorinae. Our findings identify subcursorial adaptations forHulsanpes, shared withMahakala,and differentiating them fromHalszkaraptor. As such, appendicular disparity in the potentially sympatric halszkaraptorines suggest a reduced ecological overlap among these taxa, which may explain the co-occurrence of multiple species of this clade during the latest Cretaceous in what is now the Nemegt Basin.
Expression analysis of vitellogenins in the workers of the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta)
Authors: Hawkings Chloe , Tamborindeguy Cecilia
Published: May 2018

Vitellogenin has been proposed to regulate division of labor and social organization in social insects. The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) harbors four distinct, adjacent vitellogenin genes (Vg1, Vg2, Vg3, and Vg4). Contrary to honey bees that have a single Vg ortholog as well as potentially fertile nurses, and to other ant species that lay trophic eggs, S. invicta workers completely lack ovaries or the ability to lay eggs. This provides a unique model to investigate whether Vg duplication in S. invicta was followed by subfunctionalization to acquire non-reproductive functions and whether Vg was co-opted to regulate behavior within the worker caste. To investigate these questions, we compared the expression patterns of S. invicta Vg genes among workers from different morphological subcastes or performing different tasks. RT-qPCRs revealed higher relative expression of Vg1 in major workers compared to both medium and minor workers, and of Vg2 in major workers when compared to minor workers. Relative expression of Vg1 was also higher in carbohydrate foragers when compared to nurses and protein foragers. By contrast, the level of expression of Vg2, Vg3, and Vg4 were not significantly different among the workers performing the specific tasks. Additionally, we analyzed the relationship between the expression of the Vg genes and S-hydroprene, a juvenile hormone analog. No changes in Vg expression were recorded in workers 12 h after application of the analog. Our results suggest that in S. invicta the Vg gene underwent subfunctionalization after duplication to new functions based on the expression bias observed in these data. This may suggest an alternative and still unknown function for Vg in the workers that needs to be investigated further.
Predicting New Zealand riverine fish reference assemblages
Authors: Canning Adam D.
Published: May 2018

Biomonitoring is a common method to monitor environmental change in river ecosystems, a key advantage of biomonitoring over snap-shot physicochemical monitoring is that it provides a more stable, long-term insight into change that is also effects-based. In New Zealand, the main biomonitoring method is a macroinvertebrate sensitivity scoring index, with little established methods available for biomonitoring of fish. This study models the contemporary distribution of common freshwater fish and then uses those models to predict freshwater fish assemblages for each river reach under reference conditions. Comparison of current fish assemblages with those predicted in reference conditions (as observed/expected (O/E) ratios) may provide a suitable option for freshwater fish biomonitoring. Most of the fish communities throughout the central North Island and lower reaches show substantial deviation from the modelled reference community. Most of this deviation is explained by nutrient enrichment, followed by downstream barriers (i.e. dams) and loss of riparian vegetation. The presence of modelled introduced species had relatively little impact on the presence of the modelled native fish. The maps of O/E fish assemblage may provide a rapid way to identify potential restoration sites.
Proteomics ofNasonia vitripennisand the effects of nativeWolbachiainfection onN. vitripennis
Authors: Li Jie , Wang Ningxin , Liu Yong , Qiu Shiqi
Published: May 2018

Background

Nasonia vitripennis, a parasitic wasp, is a good model organism to study developmental and evolutionary genetics and to evaluate the interactions between insect hosts and their symbionts.Wolbachiamay be the most prevalent endosymbiont among insect species due to their special ability to improve the fitness of the infected hosts. Transinfection of bacteria or fungi could substantially alter the expression of host immune system components. However, few studies have focused on the effects of nativeWolbachiainfection. Accordingly, in this study, we evaluated the proteomics ofN. vitripennisfollowingWolbachiainfection.

Methods

We studied the proteomics ofN. vitripennisfollowing nativeWolbachiainfection and in antibiotic-treatedWolbachia-free samples using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification-liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, accompanying with some ecological experiments.

Results

In total, 3,096 proteins were found to be associated with a wide range of biological processes, molecular functions, and cellular components. Interestingly, there were few significant changes in immune or reproductive proteins between samples with and withoutWolbachiainfection. Differentially expressed proteins were involved in the binding process, catalytic activity, and the metabolic process, as confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Discussion

Invasion of any pathogen or bacterium within a short time can cause an immunoreaction in the host. Our results implied that during the long process of coexistence, the immune system of the host was not as sensitive as when the symbiont initially infected the host, implying that the organisms had gradually adjusted to cohabitation.
Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Consensus Treatment Plans for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis–Associated and Idiopathic Chronic Anterior Uveitis
Authors: Angeles‐Han Sheila T. , Lo Mindy S. , Henderson Lauren A. , Lerman Melissa A. , Abramson Leslie , Cooper Ashley M. , Parsa Miriam F. , Zemel Lawrence S. , Ronis Tova , Beukelman Timothy , Cox Erika , Sen H. Nida , Holland Gary N. , Brunner Hermine I. , Lasky Andrew , Rabinovich C. Egla ,   the Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Disease‐Specific and Uveitis Subcommittee of the Childhood Arthritis Rheumatology and Research Alliance
Published: May 2018

Objective

Systemic immunosuppressive treatment of pediatric chronic anterior uveitis (CAU), both juvenile idiopathic arthritis–associated and idiopathic anterior uveitis, varies, making it difficult to identify best treatments. The Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) developed consensus treatment plans (CTPs) for CAU for the purpose of reducing practice variability and allowing future comparison of treatments using comparative effectiveness analysis techniques.

Methods

A core group of pediatric rheumatologists, ophthalmologists with uveitis expertise, and a lay advisor comprised the CARRA uveitis workgroup that performed a literature review on pharmacologic treatments, held teleconferences, and developed a case‐based survey administered to the CARRA membership to delineate treatment practices. We held 3 face‐to‐face consensus meetings using nominal group technique to develop CTPs.

Results

The survey identified areas of treatment practice variability. We developed 2 CTPs for the treatment of CAU, case definitions, and monitoring parameters. The first CTP is directed at children who are naive to steroid‐sparing medication, and the second at children initiating biologic therapy, with options for methotrexate, adalimumab, and infliximab. We defined a core data set and outcome measures, with data collection at 3 and 6 months after therapy initiation. The CARRA membership voted to accept the CTPs with a >95% approval (n = 233).

Conclusion

Using consensus methodology, 2 standardized CTPs were developed for systemic immunosuppressive treatment of CAU. These CTPs are not meant as treatment guidelines, but are designed for further pragmatic research within the CARRA research network. Use of these CTPs in a prospective comparison effectiveness study should improve outcomes by identifying best practice options.
Additive Manufacturing of Titanium Alloys for Orthopedic Applications: A Materials Science Viewpoint
Authors: Majumdar Trina , Eisenstein Neil , Frith Jess E. , Cox Sophie C. , Birbilis Nick
Published: May 2018

Titanium‐based orthopedic implants are increasingly being fabricated using additive manufacturing (AM) processes such as selective laser melting (SLM), direct laser deposition (DLD), and electron beam melting (EBM). These techniques have the potential to not only produce implants with properties comparable to conventionally manufactured implants, but also improve on standard implant models. These models can be customized for individual patients using medical data, and design features, such as latticing, hierarchical scaffolds, or features to complement patient anatomy, can be added using AM to produce highly functional patient‐anatomy‐specific implants. Alloying prospects made possible through AM allow for the production of Ti‐based parts with compositions designed to reduce modulus and stress shielding while improving bone fixation and formation. The design‐to‐process lead time can be drastically shortened using AM and associated post‐processing, making possible the production of tailored implants for individual patients. This review examines the process and product characteristics of the three major metallic AM techniques and assesses the potential for these in the increased global uptake of AM in orthopedic implant fabrication.
Design of Engineered Elastomeric Substrate for Stretchable Active Devices and Sensors
Authors: Cantarella Giuseppe , Costanza Vincenzo , Ferrero Alberto , Hopf Raoul , Vogt Christian , Varga Matija , Petti Luisa , Münzenrieder Niko , Büthe Lars , Salvatore Giovanni , Claville Alex , Bonanomi Luca , Daus Alwin , Knobelspies Stefan , Daraio Chiara , Tröster Gerhard
Published: May 2018

In the field of flexible electronics, emerging applications require biocompatible and unobtrusive devices, which can withstand different modes of mechanical deformation and achieve low complexity in the fabrication process. Here, the fabrication of a mesa‐shaped elastomeric substrate, supporting thin‐film transistors (TFTs) and logic circuits (inverters), is reported. High‐relief structures are designed to minimize the strain experienced by the electronics, which are fabricated directly on the pillars' surface. In this design configuration, devices based on amorphous indium‐gallium‐zinc‐oxide can withstand different modes of deformation. Bending, stretching, and twisting experiments up to 6 mm radius, 20% uniaxial strain, and 180° global twisting, respectively, are performed to show stable electrical performance of the TFTs. Similarly, a fully integrated digital inverter is tested while stretched up to 20% elongation. As a proof of the versatility of mesa‐shaped geometry, a biocompatible and stretchable sensor for temperature mapping is also realized. Using pectin, which is a temperature‐sensitive material present in plant cells, the response of the sensor shows current modulation from 13 to 28 °C and functionality up to 15% strain. These results demonstrate the performance of highly flexible electronics for a broad variety of applications, including smart skin and health monitoring.
Rapid Sterilization and Accelerated Wound Healing Using Zn2+ and Graphene Oxide Modified g‐C3N4 under Dual Light Irradiation
Authors: Li Yuan , Liu Xiangmei , Tan Lei , Cui Zhenduo , Yang Xianjin , Zheng Yufeng , Yeung Kelvin Wai Kwok , Chu Paul K. , Wu Shuilin
Published: May 2018

Wound healing is affected by bacterial infection and related inflammation, cell proliferation and differentiation, and tissue remodeling. Current antibiotics therapy cannot promote wound healing and kill bacteria at the same time. Herein, hybrid nanosheets of g‐C3N4‐Zn2+@graphene oxide (SCN‐Zn2+@GO) are prepared by combining Zn2+ doped sheet‐like g‐C3N4 with graphene oxide via electrostatic bonding and π–π stacking interactions to assist wound healing and kill bacteria simultaneously by short‐time exposure to 660 and 808 nm light. The gene expressions of matrix metalloproteinase‐2, type I collagen, type III collagen, and interleukin β in fibroblasts are regulated by GO and released Zn2+, which can accelerate wound healing. Co‐irradiation produces an antibacterial ratio over 99.1% within a short time because of the synergistic effects of both photodynamic antibacterial and photothermal antibacterial treatments. The hyperthermia produced by 808 nm light illumination can weaken the bacterial activity. And these bacteria can be easily killed by membrane destruction, protein denaturation, and disruption of bacterial metabolic pathways due to reactive oxygen species produced under 660 nm light irradiation. This strategy of Zn2+ and GO modification can increase the antibacterial efficacy of SCN and accelerate wound healing at the same time, which makes this SCN‐Zn2+@GO be very promising in bacteria‐infected wound healing therapy.
Direct Photomodification of Polymer Surfaces: Unleashing the Potential of Aryl‐Azide Copolymers
Authors: Schulz Anita , Stocco Antonio , Bethry Audrey , Lavigne Jean‐Philippe , Coudane Jean , Nottelet Benjamin
Published: May 2018

The possibility to impart surface properties to any polymeric substrate using a fast, reproducible, and industrially friendly procedure, without the need for surface pretreatment, is highly sought after. This is in particular true in the frame of antibacterial surfaces to hinder the threat of biofilm formation. In this study, the potential of aryl‐azide polymers for photofunctionalization and the importance of the polymer structure for an efficient grafting are demonstrated. The strategy is illustrated with a UV‐reactive hydrophilic poly(2‐oxazoline) based copolymer, which can be photografted onto any polymer substrate that contains carbon–hydrogen bonds to introduce antifouling properties. Through detailed characterization it is demonstrated that the controlled spatial distribution of the UV‐reactive aryl‐azide moieties within the poly(2‐oxazline) structure, in the form of pseudogradient copolymers, ensures higher grafting efficacy than other copolymer structures including block copolymers. Furthermore, it is found that the photografting results in a covalently bound layer, which is thermally stable and causes a significant antiadherence effect and biofilm reduction against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis strains while remaining noncytotoxic against mouse fibroblasts.
Combinatorial Particle Patterning by Nanoxerography
Authors: Palleau Etienne , Ressier Laurence
Published: May 2018

In their article (https://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.201703511), Bojnicic‐Kninski et al. expose the known methods used for creating, on a same substrate, patterns composed of different types of particles. This approach is called “combinatorial particle patterning.” They describe various techniques and group them depending on the used methods or driving forces that enable the directed assemblies of particles. A substantial part of the article (Part 2: Electrical Particle Patterning) referred to particle assemblies guided by electrostatic forces, i.e., electrophoretic or dielectrophoretic forces. However, this part, especially the paragraph on “Nanoxerography” (cf. 2.2 of the article) suffers from some inaccuracies that lead to partially wrong conclusions regarding combinatorial particle patterning.

The goal of this comment is double: i) giving a complete and up to date definition of nanoxerography ii) reporting the results on combinatorial particle patterning using nanoxerography to correct the article inaccuracies.
Unfeelable Mechanical Cloak Based on Proportional Parameter Transform in Bimode Structures
Authors: Hai Lingyu , Zhao Qian , Meng Yonggang
Published: May 2018

A bimode structure is a kind of structure with a high ratio of bulk moduli to shear moduli, which has a Poisson's ratio near 0.5 and a simple‐form elastic tensor. For structures in case of defects, there will be stress concentration and even failure. In this work, a method by proportional transformation for geometry parameters of a hexagonal bimode structure around the defect hole based on the special property of this kind of structure and invariant effective stiffness of a double‐trapezoid is proposed. This method can extremely reduce stress concentration caused by defects in the case of the same size of hole in this structure, making the hole not detectable by external forces. For a typical structure with a circular hole, the strain can be reduced from 378.5% to 114.8% relative to the nonhole case (and can be more effective in other parameters), and this method can also be used in other‐shape‐hole cases. This transformation method provides a direct platform for designing the nonstress‐concentration structure under defect holes, and besides making the structure lightweight.
Simultaneously Armored and Active Graphene for Transparent and Flexible Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhong Yuxiang , Zhang Xin , He Yi , Peng Huifen , Wang Gongkai , Xin Guoqing
Published: May 2018

Transparent and flexible supercapacitors (TFSCs) as indispensable components for future transparent and flexible electronics have attracted significant interests. The Ag nanowires/poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs) exhibit strong competitiveness applied in the TFSCs due to the exceptional conductivity and transparency. However, the environmental tolerance of Ag nanowires such as oxidation and sulfurization limits the reliability. Herein, electric‐double‐layer TFSCs based on Ag nanowires/PET TCEs as current collectors are reported. More importantly, a seamless, uniform, and flexible graphene layer behaves as armored and active components simultaneously for the TFSCs, by a facile electrodeposition process. On the one hand, the flexible graphene layer can isolate the Ag nanowires away from the oxidation well, particularly in the condition of electrolyte. On the other hand, the laminated graphene layer with wrinkles can store electrons, and the copercolating network of graphene layer and Ag nanowires can transport the electrons efficiently, cyclically accomplishing the operation of storage and transport, by which the synergistic effect endows the TFSCs with decent optical and electrochemical performances. The interfacial capacitance is evaluated to discuss the relationship between the structure of graphene layer and the measured capacitance. This facile process provides a rational architecture and insights into TFSCs.
Acid‐Responsive Transferrin Dissociation and GLUT Mediated Exocytosis for Increased Blood–Brain Barrier Transcytosis and Programmed Glioma Targeting Delivery
Authors: Ruan Shaobo , Qin Lin , Xiao Wei , Hu Chuan , Zhou Yang , Wang Ranran , Sun Xing , Yu Wenqi , He Qin , Gao Huile
Published: May 2018

Receptor mediated transcytosis (RMT) is a common mechanism used for nanotherapeutics to traverse the blood–brain barrier (BBB). However, the transcytosis of ligand modified nanoparticles via RMT is likely to be trapped within brain capillary endothelial cells due to the high binding affinity of ligand with receptors, which greatly reduces the amount of nanoparticles across BBB. Here, P‐aminophenyl‐α‐D‐mannopyranoside (MAN) decorated doxorubicin‐loaded dendrigraft poly‐l‐lysine with acid‐cleavable transferrin (Tf) coating outside (DD‐MCT) is proposed. The DD‐MCT is engineered to specifically recognize the Tf receptor (TfR) on the luminal side of BBB endothelium. Then the DD‐MCT undergoes an acid‐responsive cleavage of Tf, leading to the separation of MAN‐decorated DGL‐DOX (DD‐M) from the Tf–TfR complex in endo/lysosomes. The detached DD‐M is more prone to escape from endo/lysosomes and can further be exocytosed into brain parenchyma via the mediation of glucose transporter located on the abluminal endothelial membrane. Moreover, the DD‐M in brain parenchyma can target glioma cells. Significantly, the DD‐MCT enters into brain parenchyma in greater amounts, resulting in enhanced accumulation at glioma site and thus improved antiglioma therapeutic outcome. This strategy pioneers a new path for reducing the trapping of nanotherapeutics within BBB endothelium but increasing their transcytosis into brain parenchyma.
A Chemically Engineered Porous Copper Matrix with Cylindrical Core–Shell Skeleton as a Stable Host for Metallic Sodium Anodes
Authors: Wang Chuanlong , Wang Huan , Matios Edward , Hu Xiaofei , Li Weiyang
Published: May 2018

Sodium (Na) metal is the most promising alternative for lithium metal as anode for the next‐generation energy storage systems. However, its practical implementation is hindered by the huge volume change and severe Na metal dendrite growth during electrochemical stripping/plating. Herein, the use of a chemically engineered porous copper (Cu) matrix as a stable host for metallic Na anode is presented. By treating the commercial Cu foam through a facile and cost‐effective method, a composite matrix consists of cylindrical core–shell skeleton is achieved, facilitating uniform impregnation and confinement of Na within the matrix pores promoted by the chemical interaction between Na and the matrix. The unique matrix's surface characteristic can divert the Na deposition from the skeleton towards the Na reservoirs within the pores, suppressing the volume change and mossy/dendritic Na growth. A stable Na cycling behavior is demonstrated in carbonate electrolyte without any additives at a high capacity up to 3 mAh cm−2 with a current density up to 2 mA cm−2. Moreover, electrochemical measurements of a full cell made of the Na composite matrix anode clearly reveal the superior performance at high rate (5C) over that using bare Na metal.
Maximizing Aggregation of Organic Fluorophores to Prolong Fluorescence Lifetime for Two‐Photon Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging
Authors: Hu Wenbo , Guo Lihong , Bai Lei , Miao Xiaofei , Ni Yun , Wang Qi , Zhao Hui , Xie Meng , Li Lin , Lu Xiaomei , Huang Wei , Fan Quli
Published: May 2018

Two‐photon fluorescence lifetime imaging (TP‐FLIM) not only permits imaging deep inside the tissues with precise spatial manipulation but also circumvents tissue autofluorescence, holding tremendous promise in molecular imaging. However, the serious lack of suitable contrast agents with long fluorescence lifetime and efficient two‐photon absorption (TPA) greatly limits the advance of TP‐FLIM. This study reports a simple approach to fabricate water‐soluble organic semiconducting nanoparticles [thioxanthone (TXO) NPs] with ultralong fluorescence lifetime and efficient TPA for in vivo TP‐FLIM. The approach utilizes the aggregation of a specifically selected thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) fluorophore to prolong its fluorescence lifetime. Encapsulating the TADF fluorophore within an amphiphilic copolymer not only maximizes its aggregation but also obtains TXO NPs with efficient TPA. Importantly, as‐prepared TXO NPs exhibit a considerably long fluorescence lifetime at a magnitude of 4.2 µs, which is almost 1000 times larger than that of existing organic contrast agents. Moreover, such long fluorescence lifetime is almost oxygen‐inert, readily realizing both in vitro and in vivo TP‐FLIM. This work may set valuable guidance for designing organic semiconducting materials with ultralong fluorescence lifetimes to fulfill the potential of FLIM.
Recent Advances in Biointegrated Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Xu Huihua , Yin Lan , Liu Chuan , Sheng Xing , Zhao Ni
Published: May 2018

With recent progress in the design of materials and mechanics, opportunities have arisen to improve optoelectronic devices, circuits, and systems in curved, flexible, stretchable, and biocompatible formats, thereby enabling integration of customized optoelectronic devices and biological systems. Here, the core material technologies of biointegrated optoelectronic platforms are discussed. An overview of the design and fabrication methods to form semiconductor materials and devices in flexible and stretchable formats is presented, strategies incorporating various heterogeneous substrates, interfaces, and encapsulants are discussed, and their applications in biomimetic, wearable, and implantable systems are highlighted.
Continuous Low‐Bias Switching of Superconductivity in a MoS2 Transistor
Authors: Chen Qihong , Lu Jianming , Liang Lei , Zheliuk Oleksandr , Ali El Yumin Abdurrahman , Ye Jianting
Published: May 2018

Engineering the properties of quantum electron systems, e.g., tuning the superconducting phase using low driving bias within an easily accessible temperature range, is of great interest for exploring exotic physical phenomena as well as achieving real applications. Here, the realization of continuous field‐effect switching between superconducting and non‐superconducting states in a few‐layer MoS2 transistor is reported. Ionic‐liquid gating induces the superconducting state close to the quantum critical point on the top surface of the MoS2, and continuous switching between the super/non‐superconducting states is achieved by HfO2 back gating. The superconducting transistor works effectively in the helium‐4 temperature range and requires a gate bias as low as ≈10 V. The dual‐gate device structure and strategy presented here can be easily generalized to other systems, opening new opportunities for designing high‐performance 2D superconducting transistors.
Inorganic Polymer Micropillar‐Based Solution Shearing of Large‐Area Organic Semiconductor Thin Films with Pillar‐Size‐Dependent Crystal Size
Authors: Kim Jin‐Oh , Lee Jeong‐Chan , Kim Min‐Ji , Noh Hyunwoo , Yeom Hye‐In , Ko Jong Beom , Lee Tae Hoon , Ko Park Sang‐Hee , Kim Dong‐Pyo , Park Steve
Published: May 2018

It is demonstrated that the crystal size of small‐molecule organic semiconductors can be controlled during solution shearing by tuning the shape and dimensions of the micropillars on the blade. Increasing the size and spacing of the rectangular pillars increases the crystal size, resulting in higher thin‐film mobility. This phenomenon is attributed as the microstructure changing the degree and density of the meniscus line curvature, thereby controlling the nucleation process. The use of allylhybridpolycarbosilane (AHPCS), an inorganic polymer, is also demonstrated as the microstructured blade for solution shearing, which has high resistance to organic solvents, can easily be microstructured via molding, and is flexible and durable. Finally, it is shown that solution shearing can be performed on a curved surface using a curved blade. These demonstrations bring solution shearing closer to industrial applications and expand its applicability to various printed flexible electronics.