bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histochemical and enzymatic differences in skeletal muscle from Svalbard reindeer during the summer and winter
Authors: Kiessling K.-H. , Kiessling A. , Nilssen K. , Andersson I.-L.
Published: February 2013

Enzyme activities and fibre properties in four muscles from Svalbard reindeer, collected during the summer, have been compared with corresponding muscles during the winter. In two muscles, gluteobiceps and semimembranosus, oxidative capacity is higher in winter than in summer; in the other two muscles, semitendinosus and longissimus dorsi, there is no difference with time of the year. The capacity to oxidize fatty acids is low in winter compared with summer, especially in semitendinosus and longissimus. These changes are similar in both sexes. Histochemical studies of the three main fibre types, I (BetaR), HA (°cR) and IIB (aW), from the four muscles show that in male reindeers the muscle fibres are narrower at the end of the winter season than during the summer. The decrease of muscle tissue amounts to about one third of the total volume (33%), of which I accounts for 5%, IIA for 2% and IIB for 26%. The results indicate that the Svalbard reindeer use lean tissue in general, and IIB fibres in particular, in order to survive the hostile arctic winter period at Svalbard.

Histokemiska och enzymatiska skillnader i skelettmuskel från Svalbardren mellan sommar och vinter.

Abstract in Swedish / Sammandrag: Enzymaktiviteter och fiberegenskaper i fyra av Svalbardrenens muskler, insamlade under sommaren, har jåmforts med motsvarande muskler insamlade under vintern. I två muskler, gluteobiceps och semimembranosus, år oxidativa kapaciteten hogre under vintern an under sommaren; i de andra två musklerna, semitendinosus och longissimus dorsi, foreligger ingen skillnad i detta avseende. Kapaciteten att oxidera fettsyror år låg under vintern jåmfort med sommaren, speciellt i semitendinosus och longissimus. Inga konsskillnader foreligger i dessa avseenden. Histokemiska studier av de tre huvudtyperna av muskelfibrer, fiR (I), ocR (IIA) och (IIB), från de fyra musklerna visar att hos handjuren år fibrerna tunnare vid slutet av vintersåsongen jåmfort med sommaren. Denna minskning i muskelvåvnad uppgår till en tredjedel av totala volymen (33%). Harav svarar ftR for 5%, ^R tor 2% och for 26%. Resultaten antyder att Svalbardrenen anvånder muskelvåvnad, speciellt QcW fibrer, for att overleva undri den hårda arktiska vinterperioden på Svalbard.
Macrominerals in free-ranging Swedish reindeer during winter
Authors: Åhman Birgitta , Rydbeg Axel , Åhman Gustaf
Published: February 2013

Samples of blood, rumen, and caecal contents were taken from 238 reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) slaughtered between September and March in two consecutive years. Levels of magnesium, calcium and phosphorus were measured to evaluate the extent to which levels of these minerals reflected changes in the grazing conditions through the winter. Twenty-one reindeer in poor conditon were included in the investigation and compared with normal animals with respect to the investigated minerals. Serum values in September were within the normal range for domestic sheep (Ovis spp.) and cattle (Bos spp.) (Church, 1979). Magnesium was 0.9±0.1 mmol/l, calcium 2.8 ± 0.3 mmol/l and phosphorus 2.5 ± 0.5 mmol/l. Calcium values did not change very much through the winter while magnesium and phosphorus constantly decreased from September to February. Extremely low serum magnesium values (below 0.3 mmol/l in some animals where found in January and February. The majority of the animals in poor condition had low serum-magnesium values.
Reproductive performance of reindeer fed all-grain and hay-grain rations
Authors: Blanchard J. M. , Hauer W. E.
Published: February 2013

Reproductive performance of grain-fed reindeer {Rangifer tarandus) was evaluated over a 2-year period. Groups of pregnant reindeer were fed one of three rations, (1) 100% whole-grain barley, (2) 98.9% whole-grain barley and 1.2% mineral and trace element supplement, and (3) 70% whole-grain barley and 30% finely-chopped bluegrass hay. Reindeer fed unsupplemented whole-barley failed to produce a single live calf. The addition of mineral and trace element supplement to the ration did not result in any significant improvement in reproductive performance. Eighty-five percent of the reindeer consuming unsupplemented and supplemented all-barley rations became pregnant; however, 76% of the pregnancies resulted in stillborn calves. One-hundred percent of the cows maintained on the grain/hay ration produced live calves. We speculate that reproductive failure in reindeer cows maintained on all-grain rations is most likely a result of a diet induced disfunction in maternal rumen and/or carbohydrate metabolism rather than a micro-nutrient deficiency. More research is neeeded to determine which metabolic pathways are affected.
Caribou of the Central Arctic Region of Alaska in relation to adjacent caribou herds
Authors: Carruthers D. R. , Jakimchuk R. D.
Published: February 2013

There was an unusual increase in numbers of caribou (Rangifer tarandus granti) in the Central Arctic region of Alaska from 1981 to 1985. In fall and winter numbers were up to five times greater than at the onset of calving in June. Numbers appeared to double during the month of June each year, then remain relatively stable over the summer period with a further increase in the fall. Ingress of caribou from outside the region in fall was observed in all years and egress in the early spring is postulated. We conclude that a small resident herd inhabits the region year round with numbers increasing through ingress of caribou from the Western Arctic herd possibly beginning as early as June. Increases or decreases in the size of adjacent herds probably will affect the numbers of caribou occupying the Central Arctic region.
Predicting energy expenditures for activities of caribou from heart rates
Authors: Fancy Steve G. , White Robert G.
Published: February 2013

Highly significant (P<0.001) linear relationships between oxygen comsumption (VO2) and heart rate (HR) were found for six caribou (Rangifer tarandus grand) at several times during the year. The standard error of the estimate for predicting VO2 from HR was within 10% of the mean VO2 for 9 of 13 caribou/season combinations. Energy expenditures by caribou while feeding on grain at a trough, grazing, browsing and walking within a large enclosure were 12%, 17%), 18% and 46% higher than the cost of standing. HR's recorded during a given activity decreased sharply during September and October, and reached a minimum in January. An abrupt increase in HR's of female caribou occurred 3 weeks prior to parturition. Heart rate telemetry can be used to determine the relative energy expenditures of free-ranging caribou with reasonable accuracy.
Comparison of caribou physical characteristics from Yukon and neighboring caribou herds
Authors: Gauthier David A. , Farnell Richard F.
Published: February 2013

Data on seven external body measurements of caribou from six woodland and two barren-ground caribou herds from Yukon, Alaska, Alberta and British Columbia were compared. Comparisons between females in the fall and winter and mature males in the fall revealed that (1) barren-ground Porcupine caribou were consistently smaller than caribou from other herds, (2) British Columbia and Alberta caribou tended to be larger than Yukon caribou, or the Alaskan caribou studied, (3) central Yukon caribou were intermediate in body size, (4) no difference was found between Yukon «mountain» and «woodland» type caribou in body size, and (5) the barren-ground Fortymile caribou were more similar in physical characteristics to Yukon woodland or mountain caribou than to those of the barren-ground Porcupine herd. These data support Banfield's (1961) view of a gradient of decreasing physical size from the northern British Columbia — Alberta herds through the Yukon mountain or woodland herds to the northern barren-ground herds.
Traditional behaviour and fidelity to caribou calving grounds by barren-ground caribou
Authors: Gunn Anne , Miller Frank L.
Published: February 2013

Evidence for the fidelity of female barren-ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus spp.) of each herd to specific calving grounds is convincing. Involvement of learned behaviour in the annual return of those cows to the same calving grounds implies such actions are a form of «traditional» behaviour. Even wide variations in population size have not yet knowingly led to marked changes in size or location of calving grounds or prolonged abandonment of established ones. Rarely is the adoption of new calving grounds reported and emigration to another herd's calving ground or interchange between calving grounds has not yet been unequivocally documented. The calving experience of individual caribou and environmental pressures may modify the cow's use patterns of her calving grounds. The current definition of herds based on traditional calving grounds may require modification, if increasing caribou numbers result in changes in traditions. However, current data do not contradict either the fidelity to traditional calving grounds or the concept of herd identity based on that fidelity.
Spectralradiometry and caribou range classification
Authors: Meredith Thomas C.
Published: February 2013

The utility of Landsat in caribou range studies has been limited by problems of heterogeneity in cover type at the scale of pixies and by logistic barriers to ground truthing. Spectralradiometry provides an economical way of collecting ground truth data that are precisely comparable with Landsat data and which could provide a basis for hierarchic key classification rather than classification based on prinicipal components analysis. Spectral curves are presented for six common cover types and it is shown how the information could be used to develop classification criteria. Airborne data which could have provided a direct comparison with Landsat data proved to be too highly variable because of equipment constraints but there do not appear to be any significant barriers to developing the technique.
Transferrin variation and genetic structure of reindeer populations in Scandinavia
Authors: Røed Knut H. , Mossing T. , Nieminen M. , Rydberg A.
Published: February 2013

Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was used to analyse transferrin variation in herds of semi-domestic reindeer from Scandinavia. The results are compared with previously reported values for other populations of both semi-domestic and wild reindeer using the same techniques as in the present study. In all populations the number of alleles was high, ranging from seven to eleven, and the heterozygosity was correspondingly high, with a mean of 0.749. This high genetic variation in all populations suggests that inbreeding is not widespread among Scandinavian reindeer. The pattern of allele frequency distribution indicates a high degree of genetic heterogeneity in the transferrin locus, both between the different semi-domestic herds and between the different wild populations. The mean value of genetic distance was 0.069 between semi-domestic herds and 0.091 between wild populations. Between semi-domestic and wild populations the genetic distance was particularly high, with a mean of 0.188. This high value was mainly due to a different pattern in the distribution of the two most common transferrin alleles: Tfu was most common among semi-domestic herds, while TfEI was most common among wild populations. These differences in transferrin allele distribution are discussed in relation to possible different origins of semi-domestic and wild reindeer in Scandinavia, or alternatively, to different selection forces acting on transferrin genotypes in semi-domestic and wild populations.

Transferrin-variasjon og genetisk struktur hos rein i Skandinavia.

Abstact in Norwegian / Sammendrag: Transferrin-variasjon i tamreinflokker ble analysert ved hjelp av polyacrylamid gel elektroforese. Resultatene er sammenlignet med verdier som tidligere er beskrevet for både tamrein og villrein hvor det ble benyttet samme metode som i denne undersøkelsen. I alle populasjonene ble det registrert et høyt antall alleler (7-11) og heterozygositeten var tilsvarende høy med en middelverdi på 0.749. Denne høye graden av genetisk variasjon i alle undersøkte populasjoner indikerer at det ikke foregår mye innavl blant rein i Skandinavia. Utbredelsen av de enkelte allelene viste høy grad av genetisk oppdeling i transferrin-locuset mellom flokker av både tamrein og villrein. Middelverdien for genetisk avstand var 0.069 mellom tamreinflokker og 0.091 mellom villreinflokker. Særlig stor genetisk avstand (middelverdi 0.188) ble funnet mellom tamrein og villrein. Denne store forskjellen skyldes i stor grad forskjellig mønster i utbredelsen av de to vanligste allelene: Tf' var mest vanlig blant tamrein og Tf1' var mest vanlig blant villrein. Denne forskjellen er diskutert i relasjon til forskjellig opprinnelse av tamrein og villrein og alternativt, i relasjon til forskjellig seleksjonskrefter som virker på transferrin genotyper i tamrein og villrein.
Effects of live Brucella abortus strain 19 vaccine on reindeer later challenge exposed with Brucella suis type 4
Authors: Dieterich Robert A. , Morton Jamie K.
Published: February 2013

Twelve reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) were vaccinated with Brucella abortus strain 19 vaccine and challenge exposed with B. suis type 4 two and one-half months later during mid-gestation. An additional 10 reindeer served as non-vaccinated controls. A sharp serologic titer response was observed in both vaccinates and controls. Brucella suis type 4 was isolated from tissues and blood from most controls (8 of 10, and 7 of 10 respectively). Seven of 11 vaccinated cows aborted, gave birth to weak fawns that died, or were not pregnant at the completion of the experiment. Brucella suis type 4 was isolated from the tissue of 4 of 12 vaccinates at necropsy. It was concluded that, under the conditions of this experiment, B. abortus strain 19 vaccine in reindeer did not provide adequate protection against challenge exposure with virulent B. suis type 4 organisms.
Fifth Int. Reindeer/Caribou Symposium: First Announcement
Authors: Skjenneberg (ed.) Sven
Published: February 2013

The Fifth International Reindeer/Caribou Symposium will be held August 18-22, 1988 at Arvidsjaur, Norrbotten County, Sweden.
Bjørn Gerde; Studies on the sarcocyst morphology and life cycles of six species of Sarcocystis from reindeer (Rangifer tarandus)
Authors: Skjenneberg (ed.) Sven
Published: February 2013

Bjørn Gjerde successfully defended his thesis for the degree of doctor medicinae veterinariae (Dr. med. vet.) at the Norwegian College of Veterinary Medicine, Oslo, on June 13, 1986.
Arne Skorping; The population dynamics of Elaphostrongylus rangiferi in the intermediate host - an experimental study
Authors: Skjenneberg (ed.) Sven
Published: February 2013

Arne Skorping successfully defended his thesis for the Dr. philos degree at the University of Tromsø, Norway, September 12, 1986.
Knut H. Røed; Studies on the genetic structure of populations of reindeer and caribou (Rangifer tarandus L.)
Authors: Skjenneberg (ed.) Sven
Published: February 2013

Knut H. Røed successfully defended his thesis for the Dr.agric degree at the Norwegian University of Agriculture on 9. October, 1986.
4th Nordic Workshop on Reindeer Research, 28-30 September 1987, Kongsvold, Norway 4. Nordiske Reinforskermøte 28-30 september 1987, Kongsvold, Norge.
Authors: Skjenneberg (ed.) Sven
Published: February 2013

The Fourth Annual Workshop of Nordic reindeer researchers was organized by Nordic Council for Reindeer Research (NOR) at Kongsvold, Norway, September 28.-30. 1987 with 39 participants.
A note on forage solubility and fermentation characteristics in winter and summer feeds of Finnish reindeer
Authors: Asplund J.M. , Nieminen Mauri
Published: February 2013

The fiber and nitrogen composition and fermentation and solubility characteristics of a few typical summer browses and a sample of winter lichens were studied. The lichen sample was very high in hemicellulose, but low in acid detergent fiber (ADF). The summer browses were much higher in ADF. Fermentation losses were low for all samples but were lowest for lichens. Solubility losses in boiled rumen fluid were relatively low, but dry matter losses with amylase treatment accounted for over half of the in vitro digestible dry matter of summer browses and eventually all of the dry matter losses from lichens. Nitrogen disappearance from all samples was uniformly high. There appears to be ample reason to pursue similar studies with reindeer forages.
Ilpo Kojola; Maternal investment in semi-domesticated reindeer (Rangifer t. tarandus)
Authors: Skjenneberg (ed.) Sven
Published: February 2013

Ilpo Kojola defended his PhD thesis at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland on May 20, 1989.
Risk Factors Effecting Mortality in Acute Mesenteric Ischemia and Mortality Rates: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Aliosmanoglu Ibrahim , Gul Mesut , Kapan Murat , Arikanoglu Zulfu , Taskesen Fatih , Basol Omer , Aldemir Mustafa
Published: February 2013

The objective of this study is to discuss the effective factors on morbidity and mortality in patients who were operated on for acute mesenteric ischemia. Between 2006 and 2011, 95 patients, who underwent emergent surgery for acute mesenteric ischemia, were analyzed retrospectively. The study group consisted of 56 men (58.9%) and 39 women (41.1%), with an average age of 68.4 ± 14.4 years. Elapsed time between the onset of the symptoms and the surgical operation was less than 24 hours in 47 (49.5%) cases, and more than 24 hours in 48 cases (50.5%) (P < 0.001). Although all of the patients had intestinal necroses, colon involvement was seen in 38 patients, and mortality was higher in this group of patients (P < 0.001). Mortality rate was 42.1%. This was higher in older patients, those with increased leukocyte levels, increased elapsed time to laparotomy, and when the colon was involved.
Diagnostic Value of Open Biopsy for Malignant T-Cell Lymphoma of the Liver
Authors: Hojo Akihisa , Nakayama Hisashi , Aramaki Osamu , Higaki Tokio , Moriguchi Masamichi , Sugitani Masahiko , Miura Katsuhiro , Takeuchi Jin , Nishiyama Ryu , Moriyama Mitsuhiko , Takayama Tadatoshi
Published: February 2013

A 62-year-old man was referred to our hospital because of pain in the right upper quadrant. Laboratory tests revealed normal levels of tumor markers. Abdominal ultrasonography showed a hypoechoic mass of approximately 9 cm in diameter in the right lobe of the liver. Computed tomography revealed a low-density mass with peripheral enhancement in the posterior segment of the right lobe. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a low-intensity mass on T1-weighted images and a high-intensity mass on T2-weighted images. Abdominal angiography showed enhanced staining only at the periphery of the tumor. An open biopsy was performed and intraoperative examination of frozen sections indicated malignant lymphoma. The histopathologic diagnosis was malignant T-cell lymphoma. After combined chemotherapy, the tumor shrank to 4 cm in diameter. To our knowledge, only 15 cases of malignant T-cell lymphoma have been reported previously. Diagnosis is particularly challenging because this type of tumor has no distinctive imaging characteristics or signs or symptoms. This case emphasizes the need to include malignant T-cell lymphoma in the differential diagnosis and demonstrates the importance of open biopsy in patients with a suspected liver tumor.
Effects of Natural and Recombinant Hirudin on VEGF Expression and Random Skin Flap Survival in a Venous Congested Rat Model
Authors: Yingxin Guo , Guoqian Yin , Jiaquan Li , Han Xiao
Published: February 2013

We aim to investigate the effects of locally injected natural and recombinant hirudin on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and flap survival in venous congested skin flaps using a rat model. A dorsal random skin flap (10 × 3 cm) was prepared on each of 30 Wistar rats to establish a venous congested model. The rats were randomly divided into 2 treatment groups [receiving subcutaneous injection of either natural hirudin (6 U) or recombinant hirudin (6 U)] and a control group, which received subcutaneous injection of physiologic saline. After treatment, skin flap survival rates were calculated. VEGF messenger RNA levels and VEGF-positive vessel density as a marker for VEGF levels were measured in the flaps during and after treatment. The skin flap VEGF messenger RNA levels increased in the natural hirudin-treated group. The VEGF-positive vessel density was increased in all 3 groups. Statistically significant increases of VEGF levels were observed in the natural and recombinant hirudin-treated groups compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The skin flap survival rates were improved in both hirudin treated groups. Natural and recombinant hirudin can increase VEGF expression in random skin flaps, which can potentially improve random skin flap survival in rats through angio genic mechanisms. Our results showed that hirudin treatment led to an increase in VEGF expression in the congested skin flaps. Natural hirudin demonstrated more pronounced effects than recombinant hirudin. Further studies are needed to understand the specific mechanisms.
Epidermal Cyst of the Breast Treated by Vacuum-Assisted Biopsy
Authors: Yamaguchi Toshiyuki , Ojima Norihiro , Hayashi Masahiro , Komatsu Nobuo , Hashimoto Shin-ichi , Koyama Masamichi
Published: February 2013

A 38-year-old woman presented for evaluation of a firm mass (measuring 20 × 20 mm) in the upper outer quadrant of her left breast. On the basis of the clinical and radiologic findings, we diagnosed a benign breast tumor and scheduled removal by a hand-held vacuum-assisted biopsy device (VABD) under ultrasonographic guidance. Because the first specimen removed from the tumor was white, flaky, and waxy material, we strongly suspected that the lesion was an epidermal cyst. We continued VABD treatment until the tumor was invisible on real-time ultrasonography. Histologic examination demonstrated that the tumor was composed of mature stratified squamous epithelium and laminated layers of keratin, findings consistent with a diagnosis of epidermal cyst. These cysts rarely occur in the breast and are sometimes difficult to distinguish from breast cancer. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an epidermal cyst treated by VABD.
CRADLE TO CRADLE IN URBAN PLANNING
Authors: Kusumo Camelia
Published: February 2013

Cradle to Cradle is a well-known sustainability concept introduced by Braungart and McDonough. It is a concept about how a product can be designed from the outset so that, after their useful lives, they will provide nourishment for something new, thus “waste equals food” (Braungart and McDonough, 2002). This eco-effective principle has been applied widely in products development; however, it is less known in the urban planning discipline where sustainable development is the main ‘key word’ in transforming the urban area. The question that this paper expands on is whether it is possible to apply the Cradle to Cradle concept into urban planning practice. This article explains the difference between the eco-efficient concept and the eco-effective concept and elaborate from there on a possibility to apply the Cradle to Cradle principle to urban planning practice. It is shown that the Cradle to Cradle principle offers an instrument for bringing complex sustainable concepts within reach of planning thinking and discussion, and for generating alternatives which may not otherwise be given serious consideration.
ACHIEVING PAKIS’S THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY AS ARCHITECTURAL BUILDING THERMAL RESISTANT BY GUARDED STEADY-STATE HOTBOX METHOD:PART 1
Authors: Mintorogo Danny Santoso , Ahmad Mohd. Hamdan
Published: February 2013

Thermal conductivity of various materials which are mostly listed available as building or industrial materials in reference books and websites; but one will hardly find out for every new material, and has to be observed and try out itself if we want to know the new thermal conductivity value (k). Nonetheless with new substanct likes pakis-stem blocks that come from natural tree that could be found in the tropical woodland of Indonesia. Steady-state homogeneous temperature applied with hotbox method in an uninfluent environment likes guarded laboratory environment is the right method to obtain the thermal conductivity and resistance of porousness and semi-solidness of the pakis-stem blocks. After investigating almost 24 hours with controller TRSYS01 applying with ASTM C1155, physical semi-solid pakis blocks tend to be more easy to obtain the R-value, k-value, and surface temperatures than the porous pakis. The porous pakis blocks were tend to unstable during the test due to its physical permeable condition. The resistant values (R-value) and thermal conductivity (k) values will be further published on the following discussion of pakis thermal conductivity part 2.
To cascade feedback loops, or not?
Authors: Eitelberg Eduard
Published: July 2024

Linear time invariant (LTI) block diagrams—and the associated transfer functions—are profoundly inadequate for multi‐loop control system design. A practitioner has to have a thorough understanding of the physical uncertainties—and of their inter‐dependencies—in the different parts of an interconnected system, or in a given block diagram. Lack of attention to, or understanding of, such causal interactions has led to ill‐advised reliance on cascaded control in practice—and to consternation when cascading fails to yield the expected improvement over a single‐loop design.
Laser‐Inscribable, Moisture‐Responsive Cellulosic Supramolecular Structures with Tunable Broadband Coloration
Authors: Lu Shifu , Du Boyan , Khan Salman Ali , Huang Siya
Published: July 2024

Adaptive photonic films in response to external stimuli have broad applications in optical communications, sensing, and anticounterfeiting. Yet, it remains challenging to develop photonic structures with tailorable fine patterns that display broadband color changing under ambient conditions. Here a hydrogen‐bonded supramolecular cholesteric liquid crystalline polymer (CLCP) that is mediated by a binary solvent consisting of citric acid (CA) and water is presented. The incorporation of CA not only improves the long‐range order of CLCPs through evaporation‐induced self‐assembly but is also capable of tuning their helical pitch across the entire visible spectrum. The extent of hydration‐induced pitch expansion can be further manipulated by thermal crosslinking, enabling a unique patterning strategy based on mask‐free, programmable laser inscription. High‐precision photonic patterns are created onto CLCPs, which reveal themselves upon hydration in high visual contrast. The study offers a feasible and up‐scaling route toward tailoring environmentally adaptive CLCPs with tunable broadband coloration and highly programmable photonic patterns.
Stable and Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells by Controlling the Crystal Growth via Introduction of Plasmonic TiN Nanoparticles
Authors: Omelianovych Oleksii , Sandhu Sanjay , Ewusi Mensah Appiagyei , Larina Liudmila , Kim Byeonggwan , Trinh Ba Thong , Szaniel Adam , Yoon Ilsun , Lee Jae‐Joon , Choi Ho‐Suk
Published: July 2024

Incorporating noble‐metal plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) enhances the optoelectronic properties of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) but at a higher cost. In this work, the overlooked potential of refractory plasmonic materials is highlighted as a cost‐effective alternative additive in PSC research. This investigation aims to stimulate interest in this area by showcasing the theoretical and practical impacts of TiN plasmonic NPs when integrated into PSCs. TiN plasmonic NPs present a cost‐effective yet underexplored option. This study explores the impact of TiN NPs on PSCs through theoretical and experimental approaches. Finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) optical simulations and empirical data indicate that TiN NPs increase absorption and reduce reflectance in PSCs, driven by surface plasmon resonance and the significant growth of perovskite grains from 450 to 1400 nm. These NPs also regulate the perovskite crystallization rate by adsorbing DMF/DMSO, fostering larger grain formation. Improved band alignment and decreased trap states enhance charge transport and diminish non‐radiative recombination losses. As a result, PSC efficiency with optimal TiN NP concentration increased from 19.07% to 21.37%. Additionally, TiN‐enhanced PSCs display better stability, retaining 98.1% of their original PCE after 31 days under ambient conditions.
Understanding the Role of Oxygen Vacancy Defects in Iridium‐Leveraged MOFs‐Type Catalyst
Authors: Xu Xuefei , Chen Hsiao‐Chien , Li Linfeng , Humayun Muhammad , Zhang Xia , Sun Huachuan , Jia Jinzhi , Xu Cailing , Bououdina Mohamed , Sun Libo , Wang Xin , Wang Chundong
Published: July 2024

Engineering oxygen vacancies (Vo) in metal–organic framework (MOF) is considered as an effective strategy to improve the hydrazine oxidation reaction (HzOR) performance. However, the role of Vo and the metal sites for HzOR is still not fully understood. Herein, this study reports the synthesis of a well‐defined bimetallic VO‐rich benzene dicarboxylic acid‐based MOF (NiIr0.03‐BDC) as a model to clarify the intricate catalytic mechanism. Operando characterizations demonstrate that the Vo‐rich environment favors the adsorption of OH− on the catalyst surface during the HzOR process, leading to the formation of Ni(OH)x active species. Theoretical calculations reveal that the introduced Ir at metal nodes not only boosts the HzOR activity of the Ni sites by tuning their electronic structure but also serves as the active sites for hydrogen evolution. As a result, the two‐electrode electrolyzer with NiIr0.03‐BDC || NiIr0.03‐BDC configuration achieved 10 mA cm−2 at an ultralow cell voltage of 0.046 V. This work provides new insights into oxygen vacancy defect engineering of MOFs and paves a solid step for low‐energy consumption hydrogen production.
Hydrogen Sensor with a Thick Catalyst Layer Anchored on Polyimide Film
Authors: Panama Gustavo , Lee Hye‐One , Bae Joongmyeon , Lee Seung S.
Published: July 2024

Hydrogen sensors are important in a hydrogen‐driven society to prevent explosions caused by hydrogen leaks into the atmosphere. In previous studies, resistive hydrogen sensors on polymer films have metal oxide nanostructures decorated with novel metals that enable good responses at room temperature. However, the in situ growth process of sensing nanostructures has the disadvantage of ineffective fabrication, particularly when preparing a thick catalyst layer to produce reliable readouts from the catalytic hydrogen combustion. This work presents a catalytic combustion hydrogen sensor with a thick catalyst layer anchored in a UV resin layer on polyimide film. Catalyst anchoring channels are made by UV imprinting with a glass mold. The sensor consists of a sensing electrode and a microheater, both made of Au within an area of 1.2 mm diameter. UV imprinting produces a UV resin layer of 27 µm thick and catalyst anchoring channels of 14 µm deep and 20–30 µm wide, which are filled with Pt/TiO2 as a catalyst. The sensing response is 7.9% for 1% H2 under ambient conditions, and the detection range is 0.1–3% H2. The UV‐resin microstructures can effectively retain a thick catalyst layer to enhance sensitivity, and their low thermal conductivity reduces heat loss.
Light Phase Modulation with Transparent Paraffin‐Based Phase Change Materials
Authors: Otaegui Jaume R. , Bertschy Yannick , Vallan Lorenzo , Schmidt Falko , Vasista Adarsh , Garcia‐Guirado Jose , Roscini Claudio , Quidant Romain , Hernando Jordi
Published: July 2024

Phase change materials (PCM) have greatly contributed to optics with applications ranging from rewritable memories to smart windows. This is possible thanks to the variation in optical properties that PCMs undergo upon thermally‐induced phase change. However, this behavior is accompanied by a loss of optical transparency in one (or more) of their phases, posing a major limitation for transmission‐based functionalities. Here this challenge is addressed by producing PCM‐based composites that remain transparent in the visible spectrum during their phase transition. The cornerstone of this innovative material is the use of 30 nm‐in‐size nanoparticles of paraffin as PCMs, which minimizes the scattering within the polymer host matrix regardless of the paraffin's phase. To demonstrate the potential of this approach, it is shown that thin composite layers can modulate the phase of the incident visible light using temperature, achieving uniform phase profiles with maximum phase shifts up to π radians. Notably, the composites studied exhibit up to threefold larger phase changes for the same input power over reference thermo‐optical materials like polydimethylsiloxane. These findings position paraffin‐based composites as promising materials for various thermo‐optical applications, including wavefront shaping and aberration correction, with the potential to significantly impact a variety of optical technologies.
Exploring Ferrocenyl Imine‐Phosphane Complexes in Gold(I) Redox Switchable Catalysis and the Role of the “Magic Blue” Oxidant
Authors: Pérez‐Sánchez Juan Carlos , Herrera Raquel P. , Gimeno M. Concepción
Published: July 2024

Another class of gold(I) redox‐switchable catalysts, incorporating ferrocenyl phosphane‐imines, enriches the existing library of gold(I) complexes. Our catalyst proves efficacy in gold(I)‐catalyzed cyclizations of furans and benzamides, exhibiting reversible “on‐off” switching. Furthermore, we explored the unconventional role of “Magic Blue”, commonly used as an oxidizing agent in various organic transformations, as a potential activator of the Au−Cl bond, initiating conventional gold(I) catalysis.
Electric‐Field Manipulation of Magnetic Chirality in a Homo‐Ferro‐Rotational Helimagnet
Authors: Yang Junjie , Matsuda Masaaki , Tyson Trevor , Young Joshua , Ratcliff William , Gao Yunpeng , Obeysekera Dimuthu , Guo Xiaoyu , Owen Rachel , Zhao Liuyan , Cheong Sang‐wook
Published: July 2024

Ferro‐rotational (FR) materials, renowned for their distinctive material functionalities, present challenges in the growth of homo‐FR crystals (i.e., single FR domain). This study explores a cost‐effective approach to growing homo‐FR helimagnetic RbFe(SO4)2 (RFSO) crystals by lowering the crystal growth temperature below the TFR threshold using the high‐pressure hydrothermal method. Through polarized neutron diffraction experiments, it is observed that nearly 86% of RFSO crystals consist of a homo‐FR domain. Notably, RFSO displays remarkable stability in the FR phase, with an exceptionally high TFR of ≈573 K. Furthermore, RFSO exhibits a chiral helical magnetic structure with switchable ferroelectric polarization below 4 K. Importantly, external electric fields can induce a single magnetic domain state and manipulate its magnetic chirality. The findings suggest that the search for new FR magnets with outstanding material properties should consider magnetic sulfates as promising candidates.
Interfacial Crosslinking for Efficient and Stable Planar TiO2 Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Duan Linrui , Liu Siyu , Wang Xiaobing , Zhang Zhuang , Luo Jingshan
Published: July 2024

The buried interface between the electron transport layer (ETL) and the perovskite layer plays a crucial role in enhancing the power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability of n–i–p type perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this study, the interface between the chemical bath deposited (CBD) titanium oxide (TiO2) ETL and the perovskite layer using multi‐functional potassium trifluoromethyl sulfonate (SK) is modified. Structural and elemental analyses reveal that the trifluoromethyl sulfonate serves as a crosslinker between the TiO2 and the perovskite layer, thus improving the adhesion of the perovskite to the TiO2 ETL through strong bonding of the ─CF3 and ─SO3− terminal groups. Furthermore, the multi‐functional modifiers reduced interface defects and suppressed carrier recombination in the PSCs. Consequently, devices with a champion PCE of 25.22% and a fill factor (FF) close to 85% is achieved, marking the highest PCE and FF observed for PSCs based on CBD TiO2. The unencapsulated device maintained 81.3% of its initial PCE after operating for 1000 h.
Observation of Ultra‐High‐Q Resonators in the Ultrasound via Bound States in the Continuum
Authors: Farhat Mohamed , Achaoui Younes , Martínez Julio Andrés Iglesias , Addouche Mahmoud , Wu Ying , Khelif Abdelkrim
Published: July 2024

The confinement of waves in open systems represents a fundamental phenomenon extensively explored across various branches of wave physics. Recently, significant attention is directed toward bound states in the continuum (BIC), a class of modes that are trapped but do not decay in an otherwise unbounded continuum. Here, the theoretical investigation and experimental demonstration of the existence of quasi‐bound states in the continuum (QBIC) for ultrasonic waves are achieved by leveraging an elastic Fabry–Pérot metasurface resonator. Several intriguing properties of the ultrasound quasi‐bound states in the continuum that are robust to parameter scanning are unveiled, and experimental evidence of a remarkable Q‐factor of 350 at ≈1 MHz frequency, far exceeding the state‐of‐the‐art using a fully acoustic underwater system is presented. The findings contribute novel insights into the understanding of BIC for acoustic waves, offering a new paradigm for the design of efficient, ultra‐high Q‐factor ultrasound devices.
Ultrathin, High‐Aspect‐Ratio Bismuth Sulfohalide Nanowire Bundles for Solution‐Processed Flexible Photodetectors
Authors: Lee Da Won , Oh Seongkeun , Lee Dong Hyun David , Woo Ho Young , Ahn Junhyuk , Kim Seung Hyeon , Jung Byung Ku , Choi Yoonjoo , Kim Dagam , Yu Mi Yeon , Park Chun Gwon , Yun Hongseok , Kim Tae‐Hyung , Han Myung Joon , Oh Soong Ju , Paik Taejong
Published: July 2024

In this study, a novel synthesis of ultrathin, highly uniform colloidal bismuth sulfohalide (BiSX where X = Cl, Br, I) nanowires (NWs) and NW bundles (NBs) for room‐temperature and solution‐processed flexible photodetectors are presented. High‐aspect‐ratio bismuth sulfobromide (BiSBr) NWs are synthesized via a heat‐up method using bismuth bromide and elemental S as precursors and 1‐dodecanethiol as a solvent. Bundling of the BiSBr NWs occurs upon the addition of 1‐octadecene as a co‐solvent. The morphologies of the BiSBr NBs are easily tailored from sheaf‐like structures to spherulite nanostructures by changing the solvent ratio. The optical bandgaps are modulated from 1.91 (BiSCl) and 1.88 eV (BiSBr) to 1.53 eV (BiSI) by changing the halide compositions. The optical bandgap of the ultrathin BiSBr NWs and NBs exhibits blueshift, whose origin is investigated through density functional theory‐based first‐principles calculations. Visible‐light photodetectors are fabricated using BiSBr NWs and NBs via solution‐based deposition followed by solid‐state ligand exchanges. High photo‐responsivities and external quantum efficiencies (EQE) are obtained for BiSBr NW and NB films even under strain, which offer a unique opportunity for the application of the novel BiSX NWs and NBs in flexible and environmentally friendly optoelectronic devices.
Advancements in 3D In Vitro Models for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Vitale Sara , Calapà Federica , Colonna Francesca , Luongo Francesca , Biffoni Mauro , De Maria Ruggero , Fiori Micol E.
Published: July 2024

The process of drug discovery and pre‐clinical testing is currently inefficient, expensive, and time‐consuming. Most importantly, the success rate is unsatisfactory, as only a small percentage of tested drugs are made available to oncological patients. This is largely due to the lack of reliable models that accurately predict drug efficacy and safety. Even animal models often fail to replicate human‐specific pathologies and human body's complexity. These factors, along with ethical concerns regarding animal use, urge the development of suitable human‐relevant, translational in vitro models.
Variation in grandmaternal investment in Ukraine
Authors: Shreyer Sofiya
Published: July 2024

Background

Grandmothers vary in their contributions to grandchildren based on their relatedness and the sex of the child. Maternal grandmothers decrease grandchildren's risk of mortality and increase grandchildren's health more significantly than paternal grandmothers, but limited evidence suggests that paternal grandmothers may invest more in female than male grandchildren.

Aims

In this study, I test whether contact frequency between grandmothers and grandchildren is influenced by their relatedness (maternal vs paternal) or the sex of the child. This research was carried out in Ukraine because it is neither matrilocal nor patrilocal, and Ukrainian grandmothers are known to provide a high rate of childcare.

Methods

This study included interviews with 60 grandmothers that asked about contact frequency with grandchildren, relatedness (maternal or paternal), and contact frequency between the grandchild and the other grandmother. A dataset generated for each grandchild (n = 128) included sex, age, and contact frequency with both maternal and paternal grandmothers. Linear mixed models were fit to the data to explore the relationship between grandmother relatedness and contact frequency.

Results

On average, maternal grandmothers saw their grandchildren 173.8 days/year, while paternal grandmothers saw their grandchildren 87.5 days/year (p < 0.001). The sex of the child was not a significant factor in determining contact frequency.

Conclusion

In Ukraine, maternal grandmothers have more frequent contact with their grandchildren. This finding supports the idea that grandmaternal investment is an evolutionarily adaptive strategy. However, the bias towards maternal grandmothers may also be explained by a post‐socialist cultural context, which necessitates grandmaternal care.
Novel measures of cognition and function for the AD spectrum in the Novel Measures for Alzheimer's Disease Prevention Trials (NoMAD) project: Psychometric properties, convergent validation, and contrasts with established measures
Authors: Kim Hyun , Lee Seonjoo , Levine Alina , Huber Benjamin , Andrews Howard , Kerner Nancy A. , Cohen Daniel , Carlson Scott , Bell Sophie A. , Rivera Andres M. , Gordon Marc L. , Simoes Sabrina , Devanand Davangere. P. , Brickman Adam M. , Schneider Lon S. , Harvey Philip D. , Goldberg Terry E.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION

This study derived composite scores for two novel cognitive measures, the No Practice Effect (NPE) battery and the Miami Computerized Functional Skills Assessment and Training system for use in early‐stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) clinical trials. Their psychometric properties and associations with AD risk markers were compared to those of well‐established measures.

METHODS

For 291 older adults with healthy cognition or early mild cognitive impairment, Exploratory factor analyses were used to identify the factor structure of the NPE. Factor and total scores were examined for their psychometric properties and associations with AD risk biomarkers.

RESULTS

Composite scores from the novel cognitive and functional measures demonstrated better psychometric properties (distribution and test‐retest reliability) and stronger associations with AD‐related demographic, genetic, and brain risk markers than well‐established measures,

DISCUSSION

These novel measures have potential for use as primary cognitive and functional outcomes in early‐stage AD clinical trials.

Highlights

Well‐established cognitive tests may not accurately detect subtle cognitive changes.

No Practice Effect (NPE) and Computerized Functional Skills Assessment and Training are novel measures designed to have improved psychometric properties.

NPE had Executive Function, Cognitive Control/Speed, and Episodic Memory domains.

Novel measures had better psychometric properties compared to established measures.

Significant associations with Alzheimer's disease biomarkers were found with novel measures.
Green Syngas Production from Natural Lignin, Sunlight, and Water over Pt‐Decorated InGaN Nanowires
Authors: Yu Tianqi , Li Jingling , Li Yixin , Qiu Liang , Pan Hu , Zhu Lei , Huang Zheng , Zhou Baowen
Published: July 2024

Transformation of lignin to syngas can turn waste into treasure yet remains a tremendous challenge because of its naturally evolved stubborn structure. In this work, light‐driven reforming of natural lignin in water for green syngas production is explored using Pt‐decorated InGaN nanowires. The spectroscopic characterizations, isotope, and model compound experiments, as well as density function theory calculation, disclose that among a variety of groups including aromatic ring, −OH, −OCH3, −C3H7 with complex chemical bonds of O−H, C−H, C−C, C−O, etc., InGaN nanowires are cooperative with Pt for preferably breaking the C−O bond of the rich O−CH3 group in lignin to liberating ⋅CH3 by photogenerated holes with a minimum dissociation energy of 2.33 eV. Syngas are subsequently yielded from the continuous evolution of ⋅CH3 and ⋅OH from photocatalytic reforming of lignin in water. Together with the superior optoelectronic attributes of Pt‐decorated InGaN nanowires, the evolution rate of syngas approaches 43.4 mol ⋅ g−1 ⋅ h−1 with tunable H2/CO ratios and a remarkable turnover number (TON) of 150, 543 mol syngas per mol Pt. Notably, the architecture demonstrates a high light efficiency of 12.1 % for syngas generation under focused light without any extra thermal input. Outdoor test ascertains the viability of producing syngas with the only inputs of natural lignin, water, and sunlight, thus presenting a low‐carbon route for synthesizing transportation fuels and value‐added chemicals.
Red‐Light Triggered H‐Abstraction Photoinitiators for the Efficient Oxygen‐Independent Therapy of Hypoxic Tumors
Authors: Han Fuping , Zhou Xiao , Wang Zhaolong , Cai Lihan , Zhang Han , Shi Tiancong , Zhang Zhenyu , Lu Yang , Wu Kaifeng , Long Saran , Sun Wen , Du Jianjun , Fan Jiangli , Peng Xiaojun
Published: July 2024

The clinical application of photodynamic therapy (PDT) is limited by oxygen‐dependence and side effects caused by photosensitizer residues. Photoinitiators based on the H‐abstraction reaction can address these challenges because they can generate alkyl radical‐killing cells independently of oxygen and undergo rapid bleaching following H‐abstraction. Nonetheless, the development of photoinitiators for PDT has been impeded by the absence of effective design strategies. Herein, we have developed aryl‐ketone substituted cyanine (ACy−R), the first red‐light triggered H‐abstraction photoinitiators for hypoxic cancer therapy. These ACy−R molecules inherited the near‐infrared absorption of cyanine dye, and aryl‐ketone modification imparted H‐abstraction capability. Experimental and quantum calculations revealed that modifying the electron‐withdrawing groups of the aryl (e.g., ACy‐5F) improved the contribution of the O atom to the photon excitation process promoting intersystem crossing and H‐abstraction ability. Particularly, ACy‐5F rapidly penetrated cells and enriched in the endoplasmic reticulum. Even under severe hypoxia, ACy‐5F initiated red‐light induced H‐abstraction with intracellular biomolecules, inducing necroptosis and ferroptosis. Moreover, ACy‐5F was degraded after H‐abstraction, thus avoiding the side effects of long‐term phototoxicity after therapy. This study not only provides a crucial molecular tool for hypoxic tumors therapy, but also presents a promising strategy for the development of multifunctional photosensitizers and photoinitiators.