bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AVALIAÇÃO DA FORÇA MUSCULAR RESPIRATÓRIA E PICO DE FLUXO EXPIRATÓRIO DURANTE O PERÍODO DE HOSPITALIZAÇÃO
Authors: Ferreira Porto Elias , Pereira Francisca Elenir Batista , Silva Talita Vanessa Gonçalves , Moura Wellington Gomes , Quadros Abrahão Augusto Joviniano , Kümpel Claudia , Assis Costa Henrique Almeida
Published: January 2025

Alguns fatores podem estar diretamente relacionados com a fraqueza da musculatura respiratória e consequente diminuição das pressões respiratórias. A pressão inspiratória máxima (PImáx) e a pressão expiratória máxima (PEmáx) são indicadores da força da musculatura inspiratória e expiratórios respectivamente, o Pico de Fluxo Expiratório (PFE) é um indicador de obstrução das grandes vias aéreas, interferido pelo grau de insuflação pulmonar, pela elasticidade torácica, musculatura abdominal e pela força muscular. Diante disto, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a PImáx, PEmáx e Pico de Fluxo Expiratório durante o período de hospitalização e correlacionar a capacidade dos músculos respiratórios de gerar pressão com a composição corporal do indivíduo. Tratou-se de um ensaio clínico, com técnica exploratória, descritiva simples com avaliação da PImáx e PEmáx, pico de fluxo expiratório (PFE) e da composição corporal de indivíduos hospitalizados, realizado entre os meses de outubro à novembro de 2014. Foram selecionados 42 pacientes, destes 14 foram excluídos porque realizaram apenas uma avaliação, restando apenas 28 pacientes sendo estes distribuídos em dois grupos, Grupo Controle (GC) e Grupo Intervenção(GI). O GC apresentou média de PImáx de 52±19 no início e 43±18 no final e o GI com média inicial de 53±30 e final de 75±29, tendo aumentado significantemente. A PEmáx do GC não houve perda significativa (p=0,78); já o GI a PEmáx foi de 51±26 inicial e 65±31 final (p=0,041) apresentando aumento significativo. No PFE não foi encontrado diferença significante em ambos os grupos. Houve correlação entre PImáx e PEmáx, PFE e IMC tanto no GC quanto no GI. A PEmáx e PEmáx aumentaram com a intervenção de exercícios respiratórios, enquanto houve redução para aqueles pacientes que não realizaram exercícios, já o pico de fluxo expiratório se manteve em ambos os grupos bem como o índice de massa corpórea.
VACINAÇÃO CONTRA INFLUENZA EM GESTANTES NA ATENÇÃO BÁSICA : O QUE DIZ A LITERATURA CIENTÍFICA?
Authors: Gomes dos Santos Talia , Barreto Silva Bezerra Manuela , Dias Queiroz Brito Jussara , Santos Amorim Margareth
Published: January 2025

A imunização da gestante na atenção básica em saúde é de extrema importância para a promoção da saúde materna e fetal. A imunização por meio da vacinação é uma estratégia preventiva eficaz na redução de doenças infecciosas e suas complicações durante a gestação. A enfermagem desempenha um papel crucial nesse contexto, por meio da educação em saúde, aplicação das vacinas e acompanhamento do esquema vacinal.No entanto, ainda existem desafios a serem superados, como a falta de informação e os mitos relacionados às vacinas. Esses obstáculos podem comprometer a adesão das gestantes à imunização. O objetivo geral deste estudo foi analisar a relevância da vacinação contra influenza em gestantes na atenção básica. O presente estudo trata-se de uma revisão de literatura narrativa de caráter descritivo. Foi conduzido por uma revisão de literatura nas bases de dados nos indexadores Latino-americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde, Scientific Electronic Library Online, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, manuais do Ministério da Saúde e outros. Foram pesquisados 38 artigos de base científica, A coleta dos dados foi realizada no primeiro semestre de 2024 por meio de busca nas bases de dados. A vacinação tem um compromisso com a saúde materna e infantil e é um investimento essencial para o bem-estar das gestantes e da construção de uma sociedade mais forte e resiliente.
Défendre seul·e le droit au logement
Authors: Goyer Renaud
Published: January 2025

Le Québec connaît actuellement une hausse des expulsions résidentielles, en particulier des reprises de logement, c’est-à-dire des demandes par les propriétaires de reprendre un logement loué pour se loger, ou y loger un·e membre de leur famille. Si les locataires s’opposent à la reprise, les propriétaires doivent demander l’accord du Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) qui va statuer sur le bien-fondé et la crédibilité de la demande. Dans la majorité des cas, le tribunal accepte. Le présent texte vise à analyser la manière dont l’institution judiciaire traite les cas d’expulsion résidentielle dans un contexte de crise du logement et à documenter de possibles inégalités de traitement induites par le fonctionnement du tribunal qui favoriseraient les propriétaires dans ce processus.
Using popular science talks to foster interest in Economics among high school students
Authors: Sierra Javier , Padilla-Angulo Laura , Manso Miguel María Jesús , Antón José Ignacio
Published: January 2025

The declining interest in Economics majors in many countries among high school students and the lack of diversity of undergraduates in this field have recently become a source of concern for the academic community. In contrast with previous research examining nterventions to increase the interest in Economics mostly involving impersonal communication, this work, using a sample of Spanish students, explores the impact of popular science talks targeted at upper-secondary education pupils. Our results suggest that this intervention involving personal interaction with students effectively draws the attention of high school learners to Economics. Although there seems to be no difference in its impact according to the students’ characteristics, the greater diversity of the pupil population in secondary education compared to higher education suggests that this intervention might enhance the diversity of the pool of young people studying Economics.
El diàleg entre la recerca en adquisició lingüística, la didàctica i la creació de materials des d’una perspectiva plurilingüe. Propostes per a l’ensenyament-aprenentatge sistema negatiu de català com a llengua addicional
Authors: Llop Naya Ares - , Paradís Anna , Puig-Mayenco Eloi , Vilagrasa Grandia Albert
Published: January 2025

Aquest article presenta un conjunt de principis i propostes aplicades per a l’ensenyament del sistema negatiu en català com a llengua addicional dissenyats per fer un èmfasi especial en la promoció significativa de la competència plurilingüe. Es tracta de la fase final d’un projecte en què s’establia un diàleg entre la recerca en adquisició del català com a llengua addicional, la didàctica de la llengua i la creació i implementació de materials per a l’ensenyament de llengües a adults. Les propostes fetes beuen dels resultats de dos estudis previs: una recerca empírica sobre la interpretació dels quantificadors negatius cap, res, mai i ningú en contextos negatius i no negatius; i una anàlisi de la presentació i treball d’aquest aspecte lingüístic als llibres de text per a l’ensenyament del català com a llengua addicional. La posada en comú dels resultats de tots dos estudis permet entendre millor els processos d’adquisició del sistema negatiu en parlants plurilingües i, d’acord amb això, dissenyar: a) una proposta de programació i distribució dels continguts des del nivell A1 fins al C2; b) uns principis que guiïn l’ensenyament; i c) un seguit d’activitats aplicades en el marc d’un ensenyament de base comunicativa, que permeten reconèixer i aprofitar els bagatges lingüístics, i que tenen en compte tant el tractament i exposició a l’estímul, com el processament de les formes lingüístiques. Les activitats incorporen, també, la producció i ús contextualitzat dels mots, les estructures i els contextos estudiats en la recerca.
Dimensions metalverbals dels Videotutorials per a l’Ensenyament de Llengües: anàlisi de corpus i disseny d’itineraris
Authors: Monferrer-Palmer Aina , Dolz Mestre Joaquim
Published: January 2025

Aquest article explora el Videotutorial per a l’Ensenyament de Llengües (VEL), una eina emergent en la didàctica de llengües, analitzant-ne les característiques, les potencialitats i les limitacions. L’estudi es fonamenta en l’anàlisi de l’ús del VEL, que s’ha incrementat significativament a partir de la pandèmia. Mitjançant l’anàlisi d’un corpus de 24 canals de VEL, i de 72 VEL en total, en català, en anglés, en francés i en portugués; s’hi detallen les regularitats d’aquest hipergènere de text multimodal i se’n proposa una modelització didàctica. Es considera que els VEL poden ajudar al desenvolupament del pensament metaverbal i a l’aprenentatge autònom en el marc del treball de la interacció i de la multimodalitat en la pràctica docent. El treball conclou amb la proposta d’itineraris didàctics que integren els videotutorials en processos d’aprenentatge més amplis i efectius, a partir del projecte de VEL Apunts de Llengua de la televisió pública valenciana À Punt.
Actitudes de futuros pedagogos hacia la innovación educativa en el contexto universitario
Authors: Acosta Almudena , Belmonte María Luisa
Published: January 2025

En los últimos años, se ha destacado la importancia de que la universidad forme tanto profesionales competentes como ciudadanos críticos y participativos. Este enfoque es crucial en una sociedad del conocimiento en constante cambio. En este contexto, la Educación Superior se enfrenta al desafío de adaptarse de manera innovadora al panorama actual y esto enfatiza la necesidad de fomentar una cultura de innovación en sus instituciones para mantener la calidad educativa. El propósito de este estudio es analizar, a través del cuestionario QUACINE, las actitudes del alumnado del Grado en Pedagogía de la Universidad de Murcia hacia la innovación educativa en el contexto universitario. La muestra ha sido de 246 alumnos del curso académico 2023/2024. Los resultados indican una valoración positiva del alumnado sobre la innovación educativa, destacando como factores necesarios para innovar, la motivación y dedicación docente, el contexto universitario y la utilización de metodologías adaptadas a la realidad actual, apreciándose diferencias significativas en función del género y el curso. En conclusión, la percepción de los futuros pedagogos, encargados de estudiar la educación con la finalidad de analizarla y perfeccionarla, reconocen la innovación educativa como un pilar clave en las universidades que quieran garantizar una calidad educativa acorde con la sociedad actual.
Progesterone induces meiosis through two obligate co-receptors with PLA2 activity
Authors: Nader Nancy , Assaf Lama , Zarif Lubna , Halama Anna , Yadav Sharan , Dib Maya , Attarwala Nabeel , Chen Qiuying , Suhre Karsten , Gross Steven , Machaca Khaled
Published: January 2025

The steroid hormone progesterone (P4) regulates multiple aspects of reproductive and metabolic physiology. Classical P4 signaling operates through nuclear receptors that regulate transcription. In addition, P4 signals through membrane P4 receptors (mPRs) in a rapid nongenomic modality. Despite the established physiological importance of P4 nongenomic signaling, the details of its signal transduction cascade remain elusive. Here, using Xenopus oocyte maturation as a well-established physiological readout of nongenomic P4 signaling, we identify the lipid hydrolase ABHD2 (α/β hydrolase domain-containing protein 2) as an essential mPRβ co-receptor to trigger meiosis. We show using functional assays coupled to unbiased and targeted cell-based lipidomics that ABHD2 possesses a phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity that requires mPRβ. This PLA2 activity bifurcates P4 signaling by inducing clathrin-dependent endocytosis of mPRβ, resulting in the production of lipid messengers that are G-protein coupled receptor agonists. Therefore, P4 drives meiosis by inducing an ABHD2 PLA2 activity that requires both mPRβ and ABHD2 as obligate co-receptors.
Assessment of Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness among Pregnant Women: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Elamathi T , Ananthi K , Singh Rimi
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Maternal deaths are a significant cause of death in women in the 15-49 years of age group, and they make up a larger proportion of all causes of death in the rural areas of poorer states, compared to other regions of India. Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPACR) is an overarching program to improve the use and effectiveness of maternal and newborn health services, based on the premise that preparing for birth and being ready for complications reduces all three phases of delays in receiving services.

Aim: To assess the level of BPACR among pregnant women.

Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 360 antenatal women admitted at Indira Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Puducherry, India, over three months. A modified Johns Hopkins Program for International Education in Gynaecology and Obstetrics (JHPIEGO) questionnaire was used for data collection. BPACR steps include arranging a mode of transport, saving money for pregnancy and childbirth, identifying an institute for delivery and arranging a blood donor. Among these participants, those who followed ≤2 practices were considered less prepared, and more were considered well prepared. The Chi-square test was used to demonstrate the difference between study subject characteristics, and the level of significance set at p≤0.05.

Results: Of the 360 participants, 49 (13.6%) had good knowledge about antenatal danger signs, and a significant association was observed with educational status (p-value=0.023), occupational status (p-value=0.072), and number of Antenatal Care (ANC) visits (p-value=0.046). A good knowledge of childbirth danger signs was seen in 19 women, with a significant association observed with education (p-value <0.001), working women (p-value=0.014).

Conclusion: This study revealed that a very small portion of the participants had good knowledge of obstetrical danger signs. Hence, more effort needs to be employed to educate women and motivate them about the importance of regular ANC visits and create awareness about the complications.
Socio-economic Profiles of Maize Growers in Surguja District, Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Priyanka Panna , P. K. Jaiswal , P. K. Pandey
Published: January 2025

The present study was carried out in the Surguja district of Chhattisgarh state. Data were collected from 120 respondents from 8 selected villages. The results indicate that most of the respondents belonged to the  middle age group, had a tribal category, had different level of education from primary to higher education level, were small size and had a joint family system, engaged in agriculture with labour activity, had an annual income and also the contribution of maize to their annual income was medium level, medium category of land ownership and large category of  area under the maize cultivation, maize was the main commercial crop in wet and dry seasons, productivity of maize was medium level, low experience in cultivation, the majority of respondents consumed maize as flour/ bread, corn and animal/poultry feed, maximum respondents belonged in two or more organizations membership with moderate participation, Progressive farmers, Krishi Sangwari and RAEOs were major sources of technology information, tube wells were main source of irrigation, medium to a high level of knowledge of maize cultivation, regular available agricultural inputs, produce sold to local/outside traders, every respondents adopted the marketing channel as Producer-traders-wholesaler-retailer- consumer for their grain produce and did not adopt storage practice. The association of family size, occupation, annual income, land ownership, maize acreage, productivity, farming experience, knowledge of maize technology, marketing, education and source of irrigation were found positive and significantly correlated with the extent of adoption of maize technology. And remaining variables like the contribution of maize to their annual income, consumption pattern, social participation, extension agency contact, inputs availability and Storage practices were found nonsignificant association.
The Effect of ESG Disclosure and Financial Performance on Company Value with Company Size as a Control Variable on Companies Listed on the ESG Leaders Index
Authors: Propheta Marshanda , Irmadariyani Ririn , Kustono Alwan Sri
Published: January 2025

This study aims to evaluate the influence of ESG Disclosure and Financial Performance aspects on Company Value with Company Size as a control variable. This study uses a population of companies included in the ESG Leaders index during the 2021-2023 period and a sample collection method using Purposive Sampling which resulted in 90 research samples. The results of the study reveal that Environmental Social Governance (ESG) Disclosure, Profitability, Liquidity and Company Size as control variables have a positive and significant effect on company value. While Leverage has a negative and insignificant effect on company value. This finding emphasizes the importance of integrating ESG principles into corporate strategy not only to mitigate risk but also to increase the company's attractiveness in the eyes of investors. This study provides a relevant empirical contribution, especially in the context of developing countries and can be used as a reference for other companies in optimizing company value through the implementation of effective sustainability practices.
Cost Benefit Analysis of Bale Mangrove Agroecotourism in East Lombok Regency
Authors: Inayati Rauhil , Tajidan Tajidan , Siddik Muhamad
Published: January 2025

Agroecotourism has a major contribution to realizing community, however, it hurts the environment as well. Problems that often occur are that management is usually not by the principles of sustainability, resulting in over-exploitation of resources and conflicts between the interests of local communities and tourism managers. Interests of local communities and tourism managers. The method used in this research is the descriptive method. The unit of analysis in this study was Bale Mangrove Agroecotourism located in Poton Bako hamlet, Jerowaru village, Jerowaru sub-district, East Lombok Regency. This study used 62 respondents, determined by the rule of thumbs. The data sources in this study are primary data and secondary data. Data collection will be done using survey techniques, such as conducting direct interviews using data collection tools in the form of a pre-prepared list of questions. This research aims to: analyze social and economic feasibility; analyze sensitivity; analyze total economic value; and analyze development strategies. The results showed: that Bale Mangrove Agroecotourism in East Lombok Regency has a private price of IDR 11,137,425/month, a profit at the social price level of IDR 16,516,350/month, and a divergence value of IDR - 5,378,925 which means it is feasible and has the competitiveness to continue to be developed; Sensitivity analysis shows that the PCR and DCR values are still below one, which means that Bale Mangrove Agroecotourism in East Lombok Regency still has a competitive advantage and comparative advantage; The total economic value of Bale Mangrove Agroecotourism in East Lombok Regency is IDR 1,251,996,209/year; Alternative strategic priorities that can be used to develop Bale Mangrove Agroecotourism are establishing cooperation with various stakeholders, increasing loyalty to tourists, developing tour packages, and adding information boards about protecting the environment at various spots.
Probiotic Products: Appropriate Technologies for Control of Infectious Animal Diseases in the Face of Climate Change and Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Masola Seleman Nasib
Published: January 2025

Probiotic products are products which contain probiotics; these are live non-pathogenic microorganisms which provide health benefits to the host when administered in adequate amounts. Currently the world is facing a climate change crisis which among other things, leads to alteration of the abundance, distribution and transmission of animal pathogens leading to increased incidences of animal diseases. Moreover, the world is facing a crisis of development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by many strains of pathogenic microorganisms. For many decades conventional technologies which have been used for control of infectious diseases in animals include vaccines, antimicrobials, acaricides, and antihelmintics. The AMR crisis has made antimicrobials not to be a reliable technology for control of some infectious diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms. In attempts to look for alternative technologies other than vaccines, acaricides, and antihelmintics for control of infectious diseases in animals, many studies have been conducted to determine prophylactic efficacy of many strains of probiotics against the diseases.   The objective of this paper is to review prophylactic efficacy of probiotic products against infectious animal diseases and provide insights on mechanisms of action of probiotics. Reports of prophylactic efficacy of probiotic products against animal diseases, and mechanisms of action of probiotics were searched using google search engine. After assessment of the reports; appropriate ones were selected, summarized, and globally synthesized. Many reports reporting significant prophylactic efficacy of probiotic products against infectious animal diseases were found. However, most studies focused on bacterial diseases of the digestive system. More studies focusing on bacterial, viral, and protozoal diseases of the digestive and other body systems of animals are recommended in order to get more data on the spectrum of activity of probiotics. Based on this review it is concluded that probiotic products have significant prophylactic efficacy against infectious animal diseases. The products are appropriate for use as alternative technologies to antimicrobials for control of infectious animal diseases in the AMR crisis. They are also appropriate for use in climate adapted livestock farming because apart from contributing to enhancement of animal health and productivity, they contribute to adaptation of some of the impacts of climate change in livestock farming (particularly increased incidences of animal diseases) by enhancing the resilience of livestock to diseases; and climate change mitigation by decreasing greenhouse gas intensity through enhanced animal health.
Stimuli‐Responsive 3D Printable Conductive Hydrogel: A Step toward Regulating Macrophage Polarization and Wound Healing
Authors: Lee Jieun , Dutta Sayan Deb , Acharya Rumi , Park Hyeonseo , Kim Hojin , Randhawa Aayushi , Patil Tejal V. , Ganguly Keya , Luthfikasari Rachmi , Lim Ki‐Taek
Published: November 2023

Conductive hydrogels (CHs) are promising alternatives for electrical stimulation of cells and tissues in biomedical engineering. Wound healing and immunomodulation are complex processes that involve multiple cell types and signaling pathways. 3D printable conductive hydrogels have emerged as an innovative approach to promote wound healing and modulate immune responses. CHs can facilitate electrical and mechanical stimuli, which can be beneficial for altering cellular metabolism and enhancing the efficiency of the delivery of therapeutic molecules. This review summarizes the recent advances in 3D printable conductive hydrogels for wound healing and their effect on macrophage polarization. This report also discusses the properties of various conductive materials that can be used to fabricate hydrogels to stimulate immune responses. Furthermore, this review highlights the challenges and limitations of using 3D printable CHs for future material discovery. Overall, 3D printable conductive hydrogels hold excellent potential for accelerating wound healing and immune responses, which can lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for skin and immune‐related diseases.
Precipitated Iodine Cathode Enabled by Trifluoromethanesulfonate Oxidation for Cathode/Electrolyte Mutualistic Aqueous Zn–I Batteries
Authors: Zhang Kaiqiang , Yu Qianchuan , Sun Jingjie , Tie Zuoxiu , Jin Zhong
Published: November 2023

Aqueous Zn–I batteries hold great potential for high‐safety and sustainable energy storage. However, the iodide shuttling effect and the hydrogen evolution reaction that occur in the aqueous electrolyte remain the main obstacles for their further development. Herein, the design of a cathode/electrolyte mutualistic aqueous (CEMA) Zn–I battery based on the inherent oxidation ability of aqueous trifluoromethanesulfonate ((OTf)−) electrolyte toward triiodide species is presented. This results in the formation of iodine sediment particles assembled by fine iodine nanocrystals (≈10 nm). An iodine host cathode with high areal iodine loading is realized via a spontaneous absorption process that enriched redox‐active iodine and iodide species from aqueous electrolyte onto nanoporous carbon based current collector. By tuning iodide redox process and suppressing competitive hydrogen evolution reaction, the assembled CEMA Zn–I batteries demonstrate a remarkable capacity retention of 76.9% over 1000 cycles at 0.5 mA cm−2. Moreover, they exhibit a notable rate capability, with a capacity retention of 74.6% when the current density is increased from 0.5 to 5.0 mA cm−2. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using the oxidation effect to repel redox‐active species from the electrolyte to the cathode, paving a new avenue for high‐performance aqueous Zn–I batteries.
Transport Barriers Influence the Activation of Anti‐Tumor Immunity: A Systems Biology Analysis
Authors: Nikmaneshi Mohammad R. , Baish James W. , Zhou Hengbo , Padera Timothy P. , Munn Lance L.
Published: November 2023

Effective anti‐cancer immune responses require activation of one or more naïve T cells. If the correct naïve T cell encounters its cognate antigen presented by an antigen presenting cell, then the T cell can activate and proliferate. Here, mathematical modeling is used to explore the possibility that immune activation in lymph nodes is a rate‐limiting step in anti‐cancer immunity and can affect response rates to immune checkpoint therapy. The model provides a mechanistic framework for optimizing cancer immunotherapy and developing testable solutions to unleash anti‐tumor immune responses for more patients with cancer. The results show that antigen production rate and trafficking of naïve T cells into the lymph nodes are key parameters and that treatments designed to enhance tumor antigen production can improve immune checkpoint therapies. The model underscores the potential of radiation therapy in augmenting tumor immunogenicity and neoantigen production for improved ICB therapy, while emphasizing the need for careful consideration in cases where antigen levels are already sufficient to avoid compromising the immune response.
Recent Progresses of Polarons: Fundamentals and Roles in Photocatalysis and Photoelectrocatalysis
Authors: Ren Zhizhen , Shi Zhijian , Feng Haifeng , Xu Zhongfei , Hao Weichang
Published: November 2023

Photocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis are promising ways in the utilization of solar energy. To address the low efficiency of photocatalysts and photoelectrodes, in‐depth understanding of their catalytic mechanism is in urgent need. Recently, polaron is considered as an influential factor in catalysis, which brings researchers a new approach to modify photocatalysts and photoelectrodes. In this review, brief introduction of polaron is given first, followed by which models and recent experimentally observations of polarons are reviewed. Studies about roles of polarons in photocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis are listed in order to provide some inspiration in exploring the mechanism and improving the efficiency of photocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis.
Smart Aqueous Zinc Ion Battery: Operation Principles and Design Strategy
Authors: Zhang Xiaosheng , Jia Caoer , Zhang Jinyu , Zhang Linlin , Liu Xuying
Published: November 2023

The zinc ion battery (ZIB) as a promising energy storage device has attracted great attention due to its high safety, low cost, high capacity, and the integrated smart functions. Herein, the working principles of smart responses, smart self‐charging, smart electrochromic as well as smart integration of the battery are summarized. Thus, this review enables to inspire researchers to design the novel functional battery devices for extending their application prospects. In addition, the critical factors associated with the performance of the smart ZIBs are comprehensively collected and discussed from the viewpoint of the intellectualized design. A profound understanding for correlating the design philosophy in cathode materials and electrolytes with the electrode interface is provided. To address the current challenging issues and the development of smart ZIB systems, a wide variety of emerging strategies regarding the integrated battery system is finally prospected.
Breaking Mass Transport Limitations by Iodized Polyacrylonitrile Anodes for Extremely Fast‐Charging Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ma Shaobo , Zhao Jingteng , Gao Qixin , Song Congying , Xiao Huang , Li Fang , Li Guoxing
Published: November 2023

The fast‐charging capability of rechargeable batteries is greatly limited by the sluggish ion transport kinetics in anode materials. Here we develop an iodized polyacrylonitrile (I‐PAN) anode that can boost the bulk/interphase lithium (Li)‐ion diffusion kinetics and accelerate Li‐ion desolvation process to realize high‐performance fast‐charging Li‐ion batteries. The iodine immobilized in I‐PAN framework expands ion transport channels, compresses the electric double layer, and changes the inner Helmholtz plane to form LiF/LiI‐rich solid electrolyte interphase layer. The dissolved iodine ions in the electrolyte self‐induced by the interfacial nucleophilic substitution of PF6− not only promote the Li‐ion desolvation process, but also reuse the plated/dead Li formed on the anode under fast‐charging conditions. Consequently, the I‐PAN anode exhibits a high capacity of 228.5 mAh g−1 (39 % of capacity at 0.5 A g−1 delivered in 18 seconds) and negligible capacity decay for 10000 cycles at 20 A g−1. The I‐PAN||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 full cell shows excellent fast‐charging performance with attractive capacities and negligible capacity decay for 1000 cycles at extremely high rates of 5 C and 10 C (1 C=180 mA g−1). We also demonstrate high‐performance fast‐charging sodium‐ion batteries using I‐PAN anodes.
Subclinical epileptiform activity and sleep disturbances in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Devulder Astrid , Macea Jaiver , Kalkanis Alexandros , De Winter François‐Laurent , Vandenbulcke Mathieu , Vandenberghe Rik , Testelmans Dries , Van Den Bossche Maarten J. A. , Van Paesschen Wim
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Subclinical epileptiform activity (SEA) and sleep disturbances are frequent in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Both have an important relation to cognition and potential therapeutic implications. We aimed to study a possible relationship between SEA and sleep disturbances in AD.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, we performed a 24‐h ambulatory EEG and polysomnography in 48 AD patients without diagnosis of epilepsy and 34 control subjects.

Results

SEA, mainly detected in frontotemporal brain regions during N2 with a median of three spikes/night [IQR1–17], was three times more prevalent in AD. AD patients had lower sleep efficacy, longer wake after sleep onset, more awakenings, more N1%, less REM sleep and a higher apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen desaturation index (ODI). Sleep was not different between AD subgroup with SEA (AD‐Epi+) and without SEA (AD‐Epi–); however, compared to controls, REM% was decreased and AHI and ODI were increased in the AD‐Epi+ subgroup.

Discussion

Decreased REM sleep and more severe sleep‐disordered breathing might be related to SEA in AD. These results could have diagnostic and therapeutic implications and warrant further study at the intersection between sleep and epileptiform activity in AD.
Unlocking circular start‐ups: A model of barriers
Authors: Kasana Swati , Chavan Meena , Sedera Darshana , Cheng Zhiming , Ganzin Max
Published: November 2023

The concept of circular economy (CE) has emerged as a viable way to achieving sustainable development. Small businesses and start‐ups play a significant role in economic progress, but they also contribute substantially to environmental degradation. In this inductive qualitative study, we conducted multiple interviews with 18 founders of circular start‐ups (CSUs) in Australia to explore and understand the challenges they encountered at different stages of their development and growth. Employing grounded theory, this study unveils barriers associated with distinct phases of the CSU development and growth, categorizing them into antecedent, beginner and growth barriers. The empirical analysis paints a detailed picture of both unique and common obstacles related to the distinctive and novel positioning of CSUs in promoting CE. This research also serves as a valuable foundation for aspiring CE entrepreneurs, practitioners, scholars and policymakers.
Travels with tau prions
Authors: Diamond Marc I.
Published: November 2023

Tau was originally identified as a microtubule associated protein, and subsequently recognized to constitute the fibrillar assemblies found in Alzheimer disease and related neurodegenerative tauopathies. Point mutations in the microtubule associated protein tau (MAPT) gene cause dominantly inherited tauopathies, and most predispose it to aggregate. This indicates tau aggregation underlies pathogenesis of tauopathies. Our work has suggested that tau functions as a prion, forming unique intracellular pathological assemblies that subsequently move to other cells, inducing further aggregation that underlies disease progression. Remarkably, in simple cells tau forms stably propagating aggregates of distinct conformation, termed strains. Each strain induces a unique and, in some cases, transmissible, neuropathological phenotype upon inoculation into a mouse model. After binding heparan sulfate proteoglycans on the plasma membrane, tau assemblies enter cells via macropinocytosis. From within a vesicle, if not trafficked to the endolysosomal system, tau subsequently enters the cytoplasm, where it becomes a template for its own replication, apparently after processing by valosin containing protein. The smallest seed unit is a stable monomer, which suggests that initial folding events in tau presage subsequent pathological aggregation. The study of tau prions has raised important questions about basic cell biological processes that underlie their replication and propagation, with implications for therapy of tauopathies.
Landscape‐wide pulse events predict trait‐based responses among wetland birds in perennial channels of a dryland wetland
Authors: Becker Frowin K. , Boyes Rutledge S. , Wittmer Heiko U. , Inman Victoria , Marsland Stephen
Published: November 2023

Wetlands in arid or semiarid zones are vital for maintaining biodiversity but face growing threats. Flooding regime variability is a key driver of ecological dynamism in these systems, dictating primary productivity on a large spatial scale. The functional composition or diversity of wetland‐dependent bird species has been found to be sensitive to fluctuations in hydrological regimes and can thus be indicative of cascading ecosystem responses associated with climate change. In this paper, we investigate whether large‐scale changes in inundation and fire—a significant additional biodiversity determinant in (semi‐)arid landscapes—are reliable predictors of functional group responses of wetland‐dependent birds along a perennial channel of the Okavango Delta, Botswana. We fit generalized additive models (GAMs) to 6 years of bird survey data collected along ~190‐km‐long annual transects and use remotely sensed landscape‐level inundation estimates, as well as spatiotemporal distance to fire, to predict the responsiveness of seven trait‐based functional group abundances. During the surveys, a total of 89 different wetland‐dependent bird species were recorded, including 76 residents, across all years, with below‐surface feeding waders consistently the most abundant functional group. Including estimated spatiotemporal variability in flooding and fire, as well as their interactions, improved model fit for all seven functional groups, explaining between 46.8% and 68.3% of variability in functional group abundances. Covariates representing longer‐term variability in inundation generally performed better than shorter‐term ones. For example, variability in inundation over the 5 months preceding a survey best predicted the responses of all functional groups, which also all exhibited responsiveness to the interaction between flooding and fire. We were able to interpret the responses of individual functional groups, based on the resource exploitation assumption. Overall, our results suggest that perennial waters in dryland wetlands offer functional refugia to wetland‐dependent birds and highlight the indicative power of large‐scale trait‐based bird monitoring. Our findings demonstrate the potential utility of such a monitoring regime for dryland wetland ecosystems vulnerable to industrial‐scale anthropogenic pressure and associated climate change.
Intramuscular injections of botulinum toxin for the treatment of upper back myofascial pain syndrome: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Leonardi G. , Alito A. , Portaro S. , Di Matteo B. , Respizzi S. , Kon E. , Massazza G. , Sconza C.
Published: November 2023

Background and Objective

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a chronic musculoskeletal disorder characterized by the presence of trigger points. Among the treatment options, botulinum toxin injections have been investigated. The aim of this paper was to provide a synthesis of the evidence on intramuscular botulinum toxin injections for upper back MPS.

Databases and Data Treatment

A systematic review of the literature was performed on the PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane Library, using the following formula: (“botulinum”) AND (“musculoskeletal”) AND (“upper back pain”) OR (“myofascial pain”).

Results

Ten studies involving 651 patients were included. Patients in the control groups received placebo (saline solution) injections, anaesthetic injections + dry needling or anaesthetic injections. The analysis of the trials revealed modest methodological quality: one “Good quality” study, one “Fair” and the other “Poor”. No major complications or serious adverse events were reported. Results provided conflicting evidence and did not demonstrate the superiority of botulinum toxin over comparators. Most of the included trials were characterized by a small sample size, weak power analysis, different clinical scores used and non‐comparable follow‐up periods. Even if there is no conclusive evidence, the favourable safety profile and the positive results of some secondary endpoints suggest a potentially beneficial action in pain control and quality of life.

Conclusion

The currently available studies show conflicting results. Their overall low methodological quality does not allow for solid evidence of superiority over other comparison treatments. Further insights are needed to properly profile patients who could benefit more from this peculiar injective approach.

Significance

The randomized controlled trials included in this review compared using botulinum toxin to treat upper back MPS with placebo or active treatments (e.g., dry needling or anaesthetics) showing mixed results overall. Despite the lack of clear evidence of superiority, our study suggests that the use of botulinum toxin should not be discouraged. Its safety profile and encouraging results in pain control, motor recovery and disability reduction make it an interesting treatment, particularly in the subset of patients with moderate to severe chronic pain and active trigger points. To support the safety and efficacy of botulinum toxin, further high‐quality studies are needed.
Locally correlated Poisson sampling
Authors: Prentius Wilmer
Published: November 2023

Designs that produces spatially balanced, or well‐spread, samples are desirable as they increase the probability of obtaining a sample highly representative of the population. Spatially correlated Poisson sampling (SCPS) is a method for selecting well‐spread samples. In the SCPS method, the sampling outcomes (inclusion or exclusion of units) are decided sequentially. After each decision, the inclusion probabilities of surrounding units are updated. A specific order for deciding the sampling outcomes is not enforced for SCPS, that is, the order can be chosen randomly or be fixed. A new modified method called locally correlated Poisson sampling (LCPS) is suggested. In this new method, the order of the decisions makes sure the inclusion probabilities are updated (more) locally. As a result, a stronger negative correlation between inclusion indicators of nearby units is achieved. Simulations on various data sets show that the resulting samples from LCPS, in general, are more spatially balanced and produce lower variance than samples from SCPS and the local pivotal method.
Clinical predictors of premature radiotherapy terminations in senior adults with oral cavity and laryngeal carcinoma
Authors: Cooper Dylan J. , Travaglia Isabella , Guller Meytal , Talcott Wesley J. , Ghaly Maged , Miles Brett A. , Frank Douglas , Seetharamu Nagashree , Parashar Bhupesh
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The underlying factors that contribute to early radiotherapy (RT) termination are understudied, especially in the era of hypofractionated treatment regimens. In this retrospective investigation, we examined the characteristics and causes of premature RT terminations in senior adults (>70 years old) with oral cavity (OC) and laryngeal carcinomas.

Methods

Hundred and eighty‐eight patients treated with RT ± systemic therapy for OC and laryngeal cancer from 2017 to 2022 were identified. Premature termination was defined as completion of less than 95% of the prescribed RT. Logistic regression analysis was performed to examine factors predictive of premature termination, and survival was determined using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Twenty patients (10.6%) experienced premature RT terminations. On regression analysis, ECOG score at initiation of RT was the only covariate studied to be independently associated with premature termination (OR 2.00, 95%CI: [1.21, 3.30], p = 0.007). Three‐year overall survival (49.1% vs. 77.3%) was significantly reduced in the termination cohort (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

This analysis demonstrated over 1 in 10 patients had premature RT termination, which prognosticated inferior survival outcomes. Poor performance status may highlight patients at risk for premature termination and thus identify good candidates for hypofractionated protocols.
Does democracy matter in banking performance? Exploring the linkage between democracy, economic freedom and banking performance in the European Union member states
Authors: Socol Adela , Iuga Iulia Cristina
Published: November 2023

Literature on the effects of socio‐political factors and the quality of political‐economic institutions on banking performance is scarce and mixed. To contribute to this literature, this study analyzes whether democracy and economic freedom affect the banking sector in European Union member countries. We provide empirical evidence of the influence of democracy and economic freedom on banking performance using a sample of 27 countries from 2001 to 2020, and accounting‐based return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE) as performance measures. A dynamic model (system GMM) was used to address issues such as heteroscedasticity, serial correlation, and endogeneity. These findings indicate that democracy is positively associated with banking performance, whereas economic freedom negatively affects it in the sample countries. Additionally, this study adds to the growing literature on the relationship between control variables (macroeconomic determinants, bank‐specific factors, or a country's legislative regime) and banking performance. This study is practically valuable for managers, investors, stakeholders, policymakers, and academicians.
Using particle dimensionality‐based modeling to estimate lung carcinogenicity of 3D printer emissions
Authors: Korchevskiy Andrey A. , Hill W. Cary , Hull Matthew , Korchevskiy Arseniy
Published: November 2023

The use of 3D printing technologies by industry and consumers is expanding. However, the approaches to assess the risk of lung carcinogenesis from the emissions of 3D printers have not yet been developed.

The objective of the study was to demonstrate a methodology for modeling lung cancer risk related to specific exposure levels as derived from an experimental study of 3D printer emissions for various types of filaments (ABS, PLA, and PETG).

The emissions of 15 filaments were assessed at varying extrusion temperatures for a total of 23 conditions in a Class 1,000 cleanroom following procedures described by ANSI/CAN/UL 2904. Three approaches were utilized for cancer risk estimation: (a) calculation based on PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations, (b) a proximity assessment based on the pulmonary deposition fraction, and (c) modeling based on the mass‐weighted aerodynamic diameter of particles.

The combined distribution of emitted particles had the mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of 0.35 μm, GSD 2.25. The average concentration of PM2.5 was 25.21 μg/m3. The spline‐based function of aerodynamic diameter allowed us to reconstruct the carcinogenic potential of seven types of fine and ultrafine particles (crystalline silica, fine TiO2, ultrafine TiO2, ambient PM2.5 and PM10, diesel particulates, and carbon nanotubes) with a correlation of 0.999, P < 0.00001. The central tendency estimation of lung cancer risk for 3D printer emissions was found at the level of 14.74 cases per 10,000 workers in a typical exposure scenario (average cumulative exposure of 0.3 mg/m3 – years), with the lowest risks for PLA filaments, and the highest for PETG type.
Photodissociation and formation of an ion‐pair in CH2FCl (HCFC‐31)
Authors: Silva Albert J. F. W. H. de S. , Rodrigues Gessenildo P. , Ventura Elizete , do Monte Silmar A.
Published: November 2023

Although CH2FCl (HCFC‐31) recently became of great atmospheric importance, studies concerning its excited states are almost nonexistent. Several excited singlet states were studied (valence nσ* and Rydberg n3s, n3p, σ3s, and σ3p) through highly correlated multireference configuration interaction with singles and doubles, including extensivity correction. Comparison with the states of CH3Cl indicates a strong influence of the F atom. Potential energy curves suggest formation of an electrostatically bound complex that relaxes to a hydrogen‐bonded contact ion‐pair (HBCIP) which can decay yielding CH2F + Cl or to the ground state minimum of CH2FCl. The HBCIP has a dipole moment of 9.57 D, a CI wavefunction described as 0.65ionic + 0.20biradical and it is strongly bonded by 4.72 eV. Its H bond has characteristics of moderate and strong H bonds. The simulated absorption spectrum confirms the nσ* assignment for the first and suggests the n3s + n3pσ assignment for the second band.