bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adubos e coberturas orgânicas, fontes de nutrientes de liberação lenta na produção de acelga de colheitas múltiplas
Authors:   Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Murga-Orrillo Hipolito , Irigoin-Aguilar Jhon Maber ,   Universidad Nacional de Cajamarca, Hilares-Vargas Sharmely ,   Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Bardales-Lozano Ricardo Manuel ,   Instituto de Investigaciones de la Amazonia Peruana, Lobo Francisco de Almeida ,   Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso
Published: August 2019

Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho de coberturas e adubos orgânicos na estabilidade produtiva da acelga. O delineamento experimental foi de blocos casualizados, em arranjo fatorial e em parcelas subdivididas; usando húmus de minhoca (A1), guano de ilha (A2), e húmus de esterco de porquinho-da-índia (A3) como adubos, serragem de pinheiro-de-folhas-pêndulas (C1), casca de arroz (C2), e palha de aveia (C3) como coberturas, para três colheitas sucessivas. Avaliou-se, porcentagem de emergência (E), comprimento de folhas (CF), massa fresca de folhas (MFF) e massa seca de folhas (MSF). Nos resultados, as coberturas que propiciaram os maiores valores foram a C2 e C3 com 43,1 e 42,7 cm no CF, 209,9 e 215,5 g no MFF, respectivamente; nos adubos, o A3 proporcionou os maiores valores com 92,0% na E, 44,2 cm no CF, 231,6 g no MFF, e 154 g no MSF. As coberturas de C2 e C3 e, o adubo de A3 condicionaram os melhores desempenhos no CF e MFF em relação aos outros tratamentos; os rendimentos mantiveram-se na 1ª e 2a colheita baixando significativamente na 3a colheita; o húmus de esterco de porquinho-da-índia apresenta caraterísticas nutricionais destacáveis para seu uso na horticultura.
Análise da eficiência econômica e ambiental dos países integrantes do BRICS
Authors: Maciel Harine Matos , Maciel Wlisses Matos
Published: August 2019

O objetivo deste artigo foi analisar a eficiência econômica e ambiental (ecoeficiência) dos países pertencentes ao BRICS (Brasil, Rússia, Índia, China e África do Sul) para o período de 1991 a 2012. Os dados utilizados foram de origem secundária obtidos no site do Banco Mundial. Os países pertencentes ao BRICS alcançaram valores baixos referentes ao Índice de Ecoeficiência. Os resultados mostraram que ao longo dos anos estudados o valor médio do Índice de Ecoeficiência diminuiu. A África do Sul apresentou os melhores resultados e a China os piores resultados. A África do Sul obteve resultados mais positivos devido ao uso de energias renováveis e a baixa emissão de gases do efeito estufa. Já a China é um dos países que mais poluem o planeta, apesar de estar implementando diversos programas na área visando diminuir essas emissões. Estes resultados sugerem que muito ainda precisa ser feito para que de fato os números acerca da ecoeficiência possam se tornar relevantes e essenciais na formulação de políticas públicas e na conscientização da população em geral.
Keeping Choro Alive in Brazilian Concert Music for Bassoon
Authors: Pedrosa Ariana
Published: August 2019

Brazilian concert music for bassoon—the fruit of the Brazilian nationalist movement of the 19th and 20th centuries—is challenging for performers due to the circumstances in which this repertoire emerged and the influences underlying it. Here, the role of Brazilian popular music in the formation and establishment of this repertoire is often unstated or understated. One important popular genre unique to Brazil is choro. It is impossible to deliver a faithful performance of many of the Brazilian nationalist music pieces heavily influenced by choro without some acquaintance with this genre. These considerations have become especially relevant due to the widespread popularity of Brazilian concert music repertoire for bassoon all around the world. Informed performance practice in ‘good taste’ can result, among other, from closing the gaps in knowledge, providing sufficient and clear background and reference information, raising awareness for practices and conventions of the time and style, and passing on the insight of those close to the source in a manner of oral tradition.
De l’intention musicale au jeu instrumental. Développement d’un protocole de recherche pour l’analyse qualitative et quantitative de trois styles d’interprétation d’une oeuvre de J.-S. Bach au piano
Authors: Lazarov Viktor , Rennotte Simon , Traube Caroline
Published: August 2019

Cet article présente les résultats d’une étude pilote visant à caractériser trois styles d’interprétation différents de la musique de J.-S. Bach dans le contexte d’un processus de recherche-création. En s’appuyant sur une étude de l’interprétation de la musique baroque auxxe siècle, un pianiste a joué un extrait de laPartita en do mineur(BWV 826) selon trois esthétiques contrastantes (romantique, moderne, rhétorique). Le jeu du pianiste a été capté et enregistré en format de donnéesmidisur un piano Yamaha Disklavier DC7X. Une description verbale de chaque style a ensuite été obtenue suivant la technique de l’auto-explicitation réalisée par le pianiste. Les captations sonores de chaque extrait ont été présentées à un auditeur expert, spécialiste en enregistrement du piano, ce qui a permis d’obtenir une perspective externe sur les interprétations. Ces descriptions qualitatives ont été mises en correspondance avec une analyse quantitative des paramètres d’exécution, comme le tempo, les vitesses d’attaque et le degré delegato.
Bergsonisme (« Anthologie du phem » / Mots clés, 2)
Authors: Sladden Margaux
Published: August 2019

Le deuxième chapitre de la section Mots clés de la série « Anthologie du phem » entend rendre compte du succès rencontré par la figure de Henri Bergson dans le domaine musical durant la première moitié du xxe siècle. Dans la presse généraliste comme dans les revues musicales spécialisées, à travers l’utilisation de notions forgées initialement par Bergson – telles la « durée » ou l’« intuition »  –, un cadre théorique est élaboré, menant à la redéfinition de l’oeuvre musicale et à la défense d’une esthétique moderniste. Les trois articles sélectionnés correspondent à trois moments importants de l’assimilation de la philosophie bergsonienne dans le domaine musical, depuis les premiers jalons conceptuels posés par Louis Laloy en 1914 jusqu’à la récupération des idées phares de Bergson, désormais entrées dans le vocabulaire courant, par le compositeur Désiré Pâque en 1935.
Traduction et éditorialisation des récits sur la banlieue : paratexte iconique et transfert culturel
Authors: Turpin Béatrice
Published: August 2019

Une première de couverture est un discours composite qui résulte de multiples choix éditoriaux. Elle doit refléter l’identité de la maison d’édition dont elle est la vitrine ainsi que celle de la collection qui ouvre des pistes de lecture. Elle doit également attirer le lecteur et lui donner une idée du contenu de l’ouvrage. Le présent article étudie l’éditorialisation de quelques récits sur la banlieue représentatifs de la littérature urbaine de la fin du XXe siècle et du début du XXIe siècle. L’analyse des publications françaises montre la prégnance d’un point de vue réaliste, avec une couverture qui peut être considérée comme une image arrêtée d’un scénario (souvent reprise d’un film qui a vu le succès du livre). Celle-ci tend par ailleurs à personnaliser l’ouvrage, avec la représentation en plan rapproché d’un narrateur/personnage. Les éditions traduites tendent pour leur part à élargir le champ du regard en contextualisant le cadre historique ou spatial du récit ou, au contraire, effacent celui-ci. Le motif mis en scène, énigmatique, devient symbole ouvert sur de multiples interprétations. L’ouvrage, par là même, sort du cadre de la littérature dite « de banlieue ». Ces deux tendances, emblématiques de choix éditoriaux différents, sont corrélées à l’identité des maisons d’édition et au lectorat de la collection.
Le lexique des jeunes des cités dans Kiffe kiffe demain : choix traductifs en arabe, espagnol et néerlandais
Authors: Lievois Katrien , Noureddine Nahed Nadia , Kloots Hanne
Published: August 2019

Dans la mesure où l’emploi de la langue des jeunes des cités est considéré comme un des traits stylistiques essentiels de la littérature de banlieue, l’étude de la traduction des romans beurs s’intéresse nécessairement à cette variété linguistique. Dans cette contribution, nous nous pencherons sur les éléments lexicaux propres à la langue des jeunes des cités dansKiffe kiffe demainde Faïza Guène en traductions arabe, néerlandaise et espagnole. Concrètement, nous examinons les stratégies appliquées par les traducteurs dans 62 passages où apparaissent 21 mots appartenant à la langue des jeunes des cités. Notre étude montre que même s’il y a une grande variété de stratégies appliquées pour les trois langues en question, la standardisation – remplacement par la langue formelle, neutre ou informelle – est la stratégie la plus représentée dans notre corpus. Étonnamment, l’équivalence sociolinguistique n’est pas un choix traductif fréquent. La non-traduction, relativement courante, se constate uniquement quand il s’agit de mots issus de la langue arabe. Les traducteurs espagnol et arabe ont peu recours aux ajouts, tandis qu’en néerlandais, cette stratégie est fréquemment employée. Enfin, nous avons pu dégager très peu de régularité en ce qui concerne les procédés linguistiques étudiés et les stratégies mises en place pour les traduire.
12 Grand Challenges in Single-Cell Data Science
Authors: Laehnemann David , Köster Johannes , Szczurek Ewa , McCarthy Davis J , Hicks Stephanie C , Robinson Mark D , Vallejos Catalina A , Beerenwinkel Niko , Campbell Kieran R , Mahfouz Ahmed , Pinello Luca , Skums Pavel , Stamatakis Alexandros , Stephan-Otto Attolini Camille , Aparicio Samuel , Baaijens Jasmijn , Balvert Marleen , de Barbanson Buys , Cappuccio Antonio , Corleone Giacomo , Dutilh Bas E , Florescu Maria , Guryev Victor , Holmer Rens , Jahn Katharina , Jessurun Lobo Thamar , Keizer Emma M , Khatri Indu , Kiełbasa Szymon M , Korbel Jan O , Kozlov Alexey M , Kuo Tzu-Hao , Lelieveldt Boudewijn PF , Mandoiu Ion I , Marioni John C , Marschall Tobias , Mölder Felix , Niknejad Amir , Rączkowski Łukasz , Reinders Marcel , de Ridder Jeroen , Saliba Antoine-Emmanuel , Somarakis Antonios , Stegle Oliver , Theis Fabian J , Yang Huan , Zelikovsky Alex , McHardy Alice C , Raphael Benjamin J , Shah Sohrab P , Schönhuth Alexander
Published: August 2019

The recent upswing of microfluidics and combinatorial indexing strategies, further enhanced by very low sequencing costs, have turned single cell sequencing into an empowering technology; analyzing thousands—or even millions—of cells per experimental run is becoming a routine assignment in laboratories worldwide. As a consequence, we are witnessing a data revolution in single cell biology. Although some issues are similar in spirit to those experienced in bulk sequencing, many of the emerging data science problems are unique to single cell analysis; together, they give rise to the new realm of 'Single-Cell Data Science'.

Here, we outline twelve challenges that will be central in bringing this new field forward. For each challenge, the current state of the art in terms of prior work is reviewed, and open problems are formulated, with an emphasis on the research goals that motivate them.

This compendium is meant to serve as a guideline for established researchers, newcomers and students alike, highlighting interesting and rewarding problems in 'Single-Cell Data Science' for the coming years.
Hospital-Acquired Pressure Ulcers and Long-Term Motor Score Recovery in Patients With Acute Cervical Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Kopp Marcel A. , Finkenstaedt Felix W. , Schweizerhof Oliver , Grittner Ulrike , Martus Peter , Watzlawick Ralf , Brienza David , Failli Vieri , Chen Yuying , DeVivo Michael J. , Schwab Jan M.
Published: December 2024

Importance

Pressure ulcers (PUs) are (1) prevalent secondary complications after spinal cord injury (SCI), (2) present with elevated systemic inflammatory tone, and (3) may interfere with healing processes underlying neurological recovery (disrepair).

Objective

To investigate whether PUs acquired during initial hospitalization are associated with neurological and functional long-term outcome and survival after SCI.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Multicenter cohort study at 20 centers of the prospective SCI Model Systems (SCIMS) Database (Birmingham, AL). Patients with acute traumatic cervical SCI with relevant motor impairment (ie, American Spinal Injury Association [ASIA] impairment scale [AIS] A, B, and C) were enrolled from January 1996 to September 2006 and followed up until June 2016. Data were analyzed from April 2021 to September 2024.

Exposures

PUs acquired during surgical or first rehabilitative SCI care.

Main outcomes and measures

The change in the ASIA motor score at 1 year after SCI was the primary end point. Secondary end points included the recovery of functional independence measure (FIM) motor score at 1 year after SCI and mortality up to 10 years. ASIA and FIM motor score were analyzed applying linear mixed models with random intercept adjusted for baseline neurological level, AIS, and sociodemographic factors. Mortality was analyzed using Cox regression.

Results

The study included 1282 patients with a mean (SD) age of 38.0 (15.7) years and consisted of 1028 (80.2%) male patients. Regarding race and ethnicity, 349 of 1249 (27.9%) were African American patients, 1139 of 1273 (89.5%) were non-Hispanic patients, and 834 of 1249 (66.8%) were White patients. During initial hospitalization, 594 patients (45.7%) acquired PUs. Exposure to PUs was associated with impaired motor recovery 1 year after SCI compared with unexposed patients (−9.1 ASIA motor score points; 95% CI, −12.3 to −6.0; P < .001). In addition, PUs were associated with lower recovery of physical independence 1 year after SCI (−8.3 FIM motor score points; 95% CI: −11.1 to −5.5; P < .001). Cox regression confirmed PUs as a risk marker for death up to 10 years after SCI (hazard ratio, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.82; P = .01).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, PUs acquired during initial hospitalization after SCI were independently associated with poor long-term neurofunctional outcome. PUs constitute a modifiable factor associated with risk for worse long-term disability (recovery confounder) and elevated mortality.
Staphylococcus
,
Micrococcus
, and Other Catalase‐Positive Cocci
Authors: Becker Karsten , David Michael Z. , Skov Robert L.
Published: December 2024

Historically, the genera
Staphylococcus
and
Micrococcus
were placed together with the genera
Stomatococcus
and
Planococcus
in the family
Micrococcaceae
, containing Gram‐positive, catalase‐positive cocci. As staphylococci and micrococci are part of the microbiota of the skin and mucous membranes, careful procedures should be used to isolate organisms from the presumed focus of infection without collecting surrounding microbiota. Because serological testing for antistaphylococcal antibodies lacks specificity and predictive accuracy, it plays no role in the diagnosis of most staphylococcal diseases. A number of studies and reviews describing the antimicrobial and biocide susceptibilities of clinically important staphylococcal species have been published. Distinguishing contaminants and colonizers from staphylococcal and micrococcal isolates causing infection continues to be an important challenge for laboratorians and clinicians.
DEA again extends flexibility for virtual buprenorphine induction
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: December 2024

As the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) adds another year to flexibilities for prescribing of buprenorphine through telemedicine, evidence from the addiction treatment community continues to suggest the benefits of making this COVID‐era change permanent.
It's the workforce, stupid!
Authors: Kent Rob
Published: December 2024

If noted political campaign advisor James Carville were to review the current state of the addiction care system, I am confident that he would identify the biggest problem facing this system as the inability to recruit and retain a workforce. I also believe that he would advise those who make drug policy to focus on workforce issues and not shift the focus to anything else before a plan is in place and working.
2D Vermiculite Nanolaminated Membranes for Efficient Organic Solvent Nanofiltration
Authors: Wang Wensen , Hao Xishun , Yan Youguo , Sun Rong , Petit Eddy , Moderne Mathilde , Li Ji , Liu Jiefeng , Wu Huali , Qi Kun , Zamora‐Ledezma Camilo , Narváez‐Muñoz Christian , Hassani Camille Bakkali , Lajaunie Luc , Miele Philippe , Salameh Chrystelle , Zeng Zhiyuan , Voiry Damien
Published: December 2024

Membrane separation technology has found widespread application in molecular sieving and water reclamation. Its use in organic solvent nanofiltration (OSN) has been limited by the modest permeation rates and stability of existing membranes. In this study, 2D clay nanolaminated membranes are engineered, derived from the stacking of exfoliated vermiculite nanosheets, as a potential solution for OSN. The as‐synthesized clay membrane displayed limited stability in both water and solvents due to rapid hydration or solvation of the nanosheets. To enhance the membrane's stability and sieving capabilities, cations of various valences (K+, Na+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Fe3+) are intercalated into the interlayer of the clay nanosheets. The resulting cation‐treated clay membranes display considerable enhancement in structural stability in both aqueous and organic media. Subsequently, the solvent transport behavior and separation performance of these clay membranes are evaluated and described by molecular dynamic simulation and experiments. It is identified that Fe‐intercalated nanolaminates demonstrate controllable stacking order, resulting in enhanced sieving performance with a rejection rate of over 95% for Methyl Orange and a methanol permeation rate of ≈165 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 [LMHB]. The findings of this work pave the way for the practical applications of 2D nanolaminated clay membranes in OSN.
Thermo‐Electro‐Magnetic Interactions and ≈1 nm Fe Interfacial Layer Realize High Average ZT in Fe/Mg3(Sb,Bi)2 Below 300 °C
Authors: Jin Kangpeng , Nie Haonan , Gao Fengxian , Ma Jiang‐Jiang , Shu Mingfang , Yan Xi , Ge Zhen‐Hua , Gao Xiao , Zhao Weiyun , Liu Ming , Yu Yuan , Ma Jie , Xu Biao , Fu Liangwei
Published: December 2024

Mg3(Sb,Bi)2 alloys offer exceptional near‐room temperature thermoelectric (TE) performance comparable to Bi2Te3. However, the low carrier mobility due to Mg vacancies and relatively high lattice thermal conductivity adversely affect overall TE performance. Herein, carrier mobility and thermal conductivity of Mg3(Sb,Bi)2 are decoupled by modulating both the phase interface and grain boundaries through incorporating different sizes of iron (Fe). Ferromagnetic micrometer‐sized Fe particles enhance the figure of merit (ZT) more than superparamagnetic nano‐sized counterparts. Magnetic moments of Fe induce the charge density overlap near phase boundaries and ≈1 nm Fe interfacial layer lowers grain‐boundary barriers, leading to sharply increased carrier mobility. Moreover, the additional magnon‐phonon scattering reduces lattice thermal conductivity by over 40%. Consequently, Fe/Mg3(Sb,Bi)2 composite achieves a high average ZT of 1.4 over room temperature to 573 K. The fabricated Mg3(Sb,Bi)2‐CdSb module demonstrates a high conversion efficiency of 8.4% under a 275 K temperature gradient, among the best for Mg3(Sb,Bi)2‐based modules. This work uncovers the role of thermo‐electro‐magnetic interactions in bolstering TE performance and inspires the development of low‐cost, high‐efficiency TE modules for low‐grade heat recovery.
Self‐Rectifying Switching Memory Based on HfOx/FeOx Semiconductor Heterostructure for Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Ran Haofeng , Ren Zhijun , Li Jie , Sun Bai , Wang Tongyu , Gu Dengshun , Wang Wenhua , Hu Xiaofang , Dong Zhekang , Song Qunliang , Wang Lidan , Duan Shukai , Zhou Guangdong
Published: December 2024

Sneak‐path current is one of the biggest barriers for large‐scale passive memristor array integration. An ideal self‐rectifying resistance random access memory (SR‐RRAM) is a desirable solution but it has not been demonstrated today for optimizing comprehensive indexes for neuromorphic computing. The HfOx/FeOx semiconductor heterojunction SR‐RRAM with a robust self‐rectifying switching behavior featured by an average rectifying ratio (≈104), high resistance ratio (>106), high cycling endurance (>104 cycles), high computing precision (>6 bits) and synaptic plasticity such as paired‐pulse facilitation (PPF) and the spike‐timing‐dependent plasticity (STDP) for artificial intelligence recognition is developed using the unidirectional conductivity feature of p‐n junction. The electron hopping, tunneling, and blocking in this semiconductor heterojunction that is verified by the energy band mode based on UV photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) technology and low‐energy inverse photoelectron spectroscopy (LEIPS) and in situ high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM) observation plays a dominant role in the self‐rectifying analog switching behaviors. This work provides energy‐band engineering for the large‐scale memristor array integration, representing a significant advancement in hardware for neuromorphic computing.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Conjugation‐Extended Isomeric Dimer Acceptors for High‐Performance Q‑PHJ Solar Cells
Authors: Ou Meihong , Lang Yongwen , Lai Hanjian , Deng Zihao , Shen Xiangyu , Wang Yunpeng , Li Heng , Zheng Nan , He Feng
Published: December 2024

End group modification is a crucial strategy for fine‐tuning non‐fullerene acceptors in organic solar cells (OSCs). Extending the conjugation of end groups enhances electron delocalization, promotes tighter intermolecular stacking, and improves crystallinity and spectral absorption. In this study, a series of isomeric dimer acceptors with conjugation‐extended end groups is synthesized to investigate how the position of end group extension affects the performance of dimers. Using a one‐pot Still coupling method, three dimers with inner end group extensions are efficiently synthesized, significantly reducing synthesis time and cost. Among these, the device based on dBSeIC‐ɛNIC exhibited a higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) compared to the dBSeIC‐γIC device, which lacks conjugated extension. Building on this, the connection site of the inner end group is optimized and extended the conjugation from the outer end group. As a result, the Q‐PHJ device using dBSeNIC‐γIC/PBQx‐H‐TF achieved a maximum PCE of 17.68%, largely due to a notable increase in fill factor (FF). The study reveals the critical impact of end group conjugation extension on dimer acceptor performance and underscores the importance of selecting the optimal connection site for enhancing OSC efficiency.
Singularities of Radial Gradient Perfect Vortex Beams Generated by Pancharatnam‐Berry Metasurfaces
Authors: Zhang Shuyan , Shi Weijie , Tang Lili , Dong Zheng‐Gao
Published: December 2024

Perfect vortex beams (PVBs) have recently attracted much attention because they can maintain donut‐like intensity profiles with sizes that do not depend on topological charges (TCs). The superposition of them can further expand the potential applications. However, the conventional superposition method is limited to PVBs with identical donut sizes and discrete TCs, which reduces the degrees of freedom for flexible manipulation of light. A compact metasurface approach for superposed PVBs with radial gradient sequential integer TCs and numerical aperture is proposed in this paper. This method achieves radial gradient PVBs (RGPVBs) with asymmetric intensity singularity distribution, and the singularity positions can be further modulated by introducing an initial phase in the metasurface design. Additionally, an array of RGPVBs can be realized. This kind of singularity beams of RGPVBs is expected to be used in optical trapping, optical communications, and quantum information.
Triple Regulation of Water Molecules Behavior to Realize High Stability and Broad Temperature Tolerance in Aqueous Zinc Metal Batteries via a Novel Cost‐Effective Eutectic Electrolyte
Authors: Lv Wensong , Tan Yi , Guo Chengyue , He Xin , Zeng Lingxing , Zhu Jinliang , Yang Le , Chen Zhengjun , Yin Xucai , Xu Jing , He Huibing
Published: December 2024

The high activity of water in aqueous electrolyte causes drastic side reactions on the Zn anodes, severely limiting the electrochemical performance of aqueous zinc metal batteries (AZMBs) under extreme conditions. Herein, levulinic acid is developed as the hydrated deep eutectic solvent (DES), to build a novel non‐flammable and cost‐effective ZnSO4‐based eutectic electrolyte with triple regulation of water molecules behavior, enabling highly stable AZMBs over a wide temperature. In situ experiments, molecular dynamics simulations, and spectroscopy analysis jointly reveal that the DES is capable of comprehensively lowering the water activity by simultaneously controlling the behavior of the free, solvated, and interfacial water molecules within the eutectic electrolyte system. Consequently, the Zn anodes exhibit ultralong cycling stability (4500 h at 1 mA cm−2/1 mA h cm−2), decent Coulombic efficiency of 99.39%, and excellent temperature tolerance (−20–50 °C). Notably, the designed 2.0 Ah Zn//VOX pouch cell exhibits a recorded actual energy density of 37.46 Wh Kg−1 and 95.38 Wh L−1 at the whole cell level, with a remarkable capacity retention of 81.01% after 150 cycles, demonstrating the potential for scale‐up into real AZMBs. This work provides an in‐depth understanding of the correlation between the water molecule behavior and electrochemical properties of AZMBs.
Diagnosis of necrotic and non‐necrotic small bowel strangulation: The importance of intestinal congestion
Authors: Yamada Takeshi , Aoki Yuto , Matsuda Akihisa , Yokoyama Yasuyuki , Takahashi Goro , Iwai Takuma , Shinji Seiichi , Sonoda Hiromichi , Uehara Kay , Yoshida Hiroshi
Published: December 2024

Background

Despite the prevalence of laparoscopic techniques in abdominal surgeries today, bowel obstruction remains a potentially serious complication. Small bowel strangulation (SBS), in particular, is a critical condition that can lead to patient mortality. However, the prognosis for SBS is favorable if surgery is performed before the onset of necrosis. Non‐necrotic SBS is a reversible condition in which blood flow can be restored by relieving the strangulation. The purpose of this study was to identify sensitive and specific contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) findings that are useful for diagnosis of both non‐necrotic and necrotic SBS.

Methods

We included patients diagnosed with SBS and simple bowel obstruction (SBO) who underwent contrast‐enhanced CT followed by surgery from 2006 to 2023. Two gastrointestinal surgeons independently assessed the images retrospectively.

Results

Eighty SBO and 141 SBS patients were included. Eighty‐seven had non‐necrotic SBS and 54 had necrotic SBS. Mesenteric edema was most frequently observed in both necrotic and non‐necrotic SBS cases followed by abnormal bowel wall thickening. These two findings were observed significantly less frequently in SBO. Bowel hypo‐enhancement is identified in only about half of the non‐necrotic SBS cases, and it was detected at significantly higher rates in necrotic SBS compared to non‐necrotic.

Conclusion

Mesenteric edema and abnormal bowel wall thickening are sensitive and specific signs of both non‐necrotic and necrotic SBS. These two findings indicate mesenteric and bowel congestion. Detecting intestinal congestion can lead to an accurate diagnosis of SBS, particularly in case of non‐necrotic SBS, where bowel hypo‐enhancement may sometimes be absent.
Coordinative Self‐assembly of π‐Electron Magnetic Porphyrins
Authors: Tenorio María , Lozano Marco , Cerna Lenka , Martínez García Miguel , Urbani Maxence , Lauwaet Koen , Biswas Kalyan , Soler‐Polo Diego , Mathialagan Shanmugasibi K. , Parreiras Sofía O. , Gallego José M. , Miranda Rodolfo , Urgel José Ignacio , Torres Tomás , Jelínek Pavel , Bottari Giovanni , Écija David
Published: December 2024

π‐Electron magnetic compounds on surfaces have emerged as a powerful platform to interrogate spin interactions at the atomic scale, with great potential in spintronics and quantum technologies. A key challenge is organizing these compounds over large length scales, while elucidating their resulting magnetic properties. Herein, we offer a relevant contribution toward this objective, which consists of using on‐surface synthesis coupled with coordination chemistry to promote the self‐assembly of π‐electron magnetic porphyrin species. A porphyrin precursor equipped with carbonitrile moieties in a trans arrangement was prepared by solution synthesis and deposited on Au(111)/mica. Depending on the specific growth protocol, surface‐promoted reactions led to the transformation of the precursor into non‐magnetic Au‐CN coordinated porphyrin monomers, covalent porphyrin dimers, and one‐dimensional porphyrin polymers (based on porphyrin monomers or covalent porphyrin dimers), as revealed by scanning probe microscopy studies combined with theoretical calculations. Interestingly, the scanning tunneling microscopy tip could convert such closed‐shell porphyrin units into open‐shell species by the removal of some peripheral hydrogen atoms. The magnetic features (i.e., singlet or triplet ground state) of the porphyrin units comprising the polymers were investigated for polymers of different lengths. No magnetic exchange coupling between adjacent units was observed, suggesting protection of the magnetic entities.
Evaluation of the Activation Energy for Pyrolytic Degradation of Poly‐L‐Lactide (PLA) During Artificially Accelerated Aging
Authors: Reit Margarita , Krug Natalie , Zarges Jan‐Christoph , Heim Hans‐Peter
Published: December 2024

In the course of this study, the pyrolytic degradation characteristics of three poly(lactic acid) (PLA) types were investigated under inert conditions using dynamic thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) across the temperature range of 23°C–600°C with four heating rates. Specifically, the activation energy and its implications were determined at different stages of degradation. For this purpose, a comparative analysis of various isoconversional methods, including Kissinger, Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa (FWO), Friedman, and Kissinger‐Akahira‐Sunnose (KAS) was undertaken to evaluate the reliability of each. The results indicate a decrease in thermal stability, indicated by a shift of the derived mass loss curves to lower temperatures, as confirmed by an increased water content and decreased crystallinity of the test specimen during aging. The study also highlights that if crystallinity and moisture content increase moderately, the thermal degradation curves remain unchanged. Additionally, kinetic analyses using mentioned models indicate a multi‐step degradation process of PLA. The activation energy fluctuates with the conversion rate, suggesting complex underlying kinetics. These findings emphasize the need for dynamic adjustment of predictive models for material lifespan. The three PLA types were characterized by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), moisture absorption measurement and Gel permeation chromatography (GPC).
Expression pattern and prognostic significance of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 in lung adenocarcinoma as a potential predictor of immunotherapy efficacy
Authors: Baldari Silvia , Antonini Annalisa , Di Rocco Giuliana , Toietta Gabriele
Published: December 2024

Background

The incidence of alcohol‐associated cancers is higher within Asian populations having an increased prevalence of an inactivating mutation in aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2), a mitochondrial enzyme required for the clearance of acetaldehyde, a cytotoxic metabolite of ethanol. The role of alcohol consumption in promoting lung cancer is controversial, and little attention has been paid to the association between alcohol drinking and pulmonary ALDH2 expression.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of multi‐omics data available in public databases to elucidate the role of ALDH2 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Results

Transcriptional and proteomic data indicate a substantial pulmonary expression of ALDH2, which is functional for the metabolism of alcohol diffused from the bronchial circulation. ALDH2 expression is higher in healthy lung tissue than in LUAD and inhibits cell cycle, apoptosis, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition pathways. Moreover, low ALDH2 mRNA levels predict poor prognosis and low overall survival in LUAD patients. Interestingly, ALDH2 expression correlates with immune infiltration in LUAD.

Conclusions

A better understanding of the role of ALDH2 in lung tumor progression and immune infiltration might support its potential use as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target for improving immunotherapeutic response.
The Longitudinal Effects of Intergroup Contact on Youth Attitudes Towards Ethnic Minorities and Constructive Societal Engagement
Authors: Schaefer Christoph Daniel , McKeown Shelley , Ali Shazza , Dupont Pier‐Luc , Manley David , Rao Sumedh , Taylor Laura K.
Published: December 2024

Growing empirical evidence demonstrates that intergroup contact has the potential to reap effects that go beyond prejudice reduction. Much of this evidence, however, is based on findings from cross‐sectional surveys. Building on the relatively smaller body of longitudinal intergroup contact research, we conduct a three‐time point survey amongst youth in Northern Ireland to determine whether frequent and good‐quality interactions with ethnic minority groups are associated with later reports on: (1) attitudes towards ethnic minorities, (2) prosocial behaviour towards ethnic minorities, and (3) civic engagement. Data were collected over the period of a school year amongst youth living in Belfast (n = 420, Mage; T1 = 14.9 years) and analysed using longitudinal path analyses and structural equation models in Mplus. Results demonstrate a lagged effect of higher‐quality contact on more positive attitudes towards ethnic minorities over the school year. There was also a lagged effect of more frequent contact on self‐reported prosocial behaviour in support of ethnic minorities. No lagged effects were observed of intergroup contact on civic engagement. Findings highlight the potential longitudinal effects of intergroup contact on attitudes and behaviours towards ethnic minorities.
Effect of Foam Mat Drying on Extraction of Anthocyanins from Syzygium cumini (Jamun)
Authors: Kaur Amritpreet , Kaur Darshanjot , Qadri Ovais Shafiq
Published: December 2024

This study was conducted to analyze the effect of foam mat drying (FD) technology on the anthocyanin extraction from Syzygium cumini (Jamun) pulp. Jamun pulp was foamed using a hand mixer with the incorporation of egg albumin and methylcellulose. The drying process involved three different techniques: hot air foam drying, vacuum foam drying, and microwave foam drying. Microwave foam drying was selected as the preferred method based on the recovery of anthocyanin, with drying power options of 180, 360, and 540 W. For hot air foam drying and vacuum foam drying, temperatures of 50 °C, 70 °C, and 100 °C were employed. It was found that microwave drying with 180 W had maximum anthocyanin recovery, whereas vacuum and hot air drying showed lesser anthocyanin content. The anthocyanin content obtained at this power level was determined to be 491.42 ± 6.97 mg/100 g, indicating a significant increase compared to the initial content. Using lower power levels in microwave FD has proven advantageous by preventing the degradation of anthocyanins due to decreased exposure to heat. Subsequently, various analyses were conducted from the extracts obtained from microwave power 180 W, which included total phenolic content (TPC), 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and antimicrobial assay. Lower values of TPC were found because of the breakdown of bioactive compounds due to higher power levels. An increased quantity of % DPPH activity was observed. The extract exhibited notable antibacterial efficacy, although no significant antifungal impact was detected. These characterizations offer valuable information about the composition and potential uses of the anthocyanin extract obtained through microwave FD at 180 W power.
Plasma‐assisted fabrication of multiscale materials for electrochemical energy conversion and storage
Authors: Li Chen , Zhang Tengfei , Qiu Zhong , Ye Beirong , Liang Xinqi , Liu Xin , Chen Minghua , Xia Xinhui , Wang Chen , Wan Wangjun , Zhang Yongqi
Published: December 2024

Plasma, the fourth state of matter, is characterized by the presence of charged particles, including ions and electrons. It has been shown to induce unique physical and chemical reactions. Recently, there have been increased applications of plasma technology in the field of multiscale functional materials' preparation, with a number of interesting results. This review will begin by introducing the basic knowledge of plasma, including the definition, typical parameters, and classification of plasma setups. Following this, we will provide a comprehensive review and summary of the applications (phase conversion, doping, deposition, etching, exfoliation, and surface treatment) of plasma in common energy conversion and storage systems, such as electrocatalytic conversion of small molecules, batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors. This article summarizes the structure–performance relationships of electrochemical energy conversion and storage materials (ECSMs) that have been prepared or modified by plasma. It also provides an overview of the challenges and perspectives of plasma technology, which could lead to a new approach for designing and modifying electrode materials in ECSMs.
Fine‐Tune the Structural Components of Porous Frameworks for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Cao Doudou , Cao Jiarui , Song Yingbo , Zheng Yue , Luo Lu , Liu Jia , Yuan Ye
Published: December 2024

With the depletion of fossil fuels and increasing pollution problems, green and sustainable energy supply attracts worldwide attention. Hydrogen is a green and high‐density energy substance, and photocatalytic hydrogen generation is an effective and sustainable method. Therefore, developing high‐performance photocatalysts plays a crucial role in practical application. Porous frameworks with large surface areas and diversified structures are considered promising candidates for photocatalysts. This review summarizes the recent progress on porous frameworks and their derivatives through fine‐tuning structural components in terms of building monomers, functional groups, and metal hybridization for photocatalytic production of hydrogen. A detailed correlation is conducted between the structural features of porous frameworks and photocatalysis capability. In addition, we summarized the advantages of porous materials for photocatalytic hydrogen production and future development.
Site‐Selective Ligand Functionalization Reverses Hypsochromic Luminescence Shifts in Platinum(II) Complexes of Benzannulated NCN‐Coordinating Ligands
Authors: Ortiz Robert J. , Garcia‐Torres Esteban , Brothwood Phillipa L. , Williams J. A. Gareth , Herbert David E.
Published: December 2024

Ligands containing phenanthridine (benzo[c]quinoline) have presented notable exceptions to the conventional logic that increasing ligand benzannulation leads to bathochromic (red) shifts in the absorption and emission of their coordination complexes. The counterintuitive blue shifts have been attributed to the peculiar structure of phenanthridines, whose ground states are dominated by imine‐bridged biphenyl resonance contributors. These serve to isolate the C=N unit electronically from the rest of the ligand framework and allow the C=N moiety to act as a ‘shock‐absorber’, buffering against larger molecular distortions in a molecule's excited state, and reducing the observed pseudo‐Stokes’ shift. Here, we provide experimental evidence for this assertion in the form of a counterfactual that reverses this trend: substitution at the phenanthridine 6‐position (i. e., at the C=N sub‐unit) breaks the phenanthridine's tendency to cause hypsochromic luminescence shifts. The synthesis, full characterization, and comparison of 2‐quinolinyl and 6‐phenanthridinyl exemplars is provided, supported by a detailed theoretical treatment.
Crystal Structures of Highly Electron‐Accepting Naphtho[1,2‐c:5,6‐c]bis[1,2,5]Chalcogendiazole
Authors: Tanaka Saki , Matsuo Takumi , Hayashi Shotaro
Published: December 2024

Naphtho[1,2‐c:5,6‐c]bis[1,2,5]chalcogendiazole is an important building block for organic devices due to its highly electron‐accepting properties. However, despite being an effective unit of low band gap organic semiconductors, fewer studies have been conducted on analyzing such units to understand their crystal structure. Here the crystal structure analysis of naphtho[1,2‐c:5,6‐c]bis[1,2,5]thiadiazole, naphtho[1,2‐c:5,6‐c]bis[1,2,5]oxadiazole is reported, and these brominated motifs. Crystal structures of naphtho[1,2‐c:5,6‐c]bis[1,2,5]thiadiazoles and its brominated compound show that the molecules form coplanar structures through N···S contacts, resulting in parallel face‐to‐face packing and π‐π stacking. Double N···S contacts are found as a priority in such compounds. On the other hand, naphtho[1,2‐c:5,6‐c]bis[1,2,5]oxadiazoles gave N···H─C networks with π‐π stacking. These differences will probably induce the difference in the crystal structure of the naphtho[1,2‐c:5,6‐c]bis[1,2,5]chalcogendiazole‐based extended π‐systems. Brominated one exhibits polymorphs, which works N···Br contacts or Br···Br contacts based on the interaction of the σ‐hole of bromide. These investigations can be applied to the order‐made synthesis of self‐assembled soft matter and functional molecular crystals.
Fishy Business—Assessing the Efficacy of Active and Passive eDNA to Describe the Fish Assemblage of a River in Southwestern Western Australia to Support Effective Monitoring
Authors: Stevens Emma R. , Hyde Josephine , Beesley Leah S. , Gwinn Daniel C. , Thompson Suzanne , Morris Lenore , Wilson Paige R. , Gleeson Deirdre B.
Published: December 2024

Worldwide, freshwater vertebrate populations are declining with increasing pressure on rivers due to numerous environmental and climatic threats. Environmental DNA (eDNA) could potentially provide a more efficient and non‐invasive mechanism to monitor freshwater systems, either as a complement or in replacement to traditional methods to accurately assess species' distributions. Here, we utilize a hierarchical multispecies N‐mixture model to compare three fish sampling methods: traditional fyke netting and active and passive environmental DNA sampling along a 30 km stretch of the Canning River in Western Australia. We used the fitted model to compare capture probabilities among sampling methods and reveal the sampling effort required to describe the species assemblage. Results indicated that while all methods could detect fish, combined eDNA methodologies detected one more fish species than those caught by fyke netting. In addition, active eDNA sampling produced the highest capture probabilities and more consistently described the entire fish assemblage at any given site. Fyke netting and passive eDNA did not show significant differences in their average capture probabilities, and both methods had lower abilities to capture individual species than active eDNA. Active eDNA also required fewer replicate samples to detect the expected observed richness, and fyke netting required the most replicates. Additionally, a hierarchical multispecies abundance model showed that active environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling is the most effective method for monitoring freshwater fish populations. This study contributes to our understanding of eDNA in aquatic systems and demonstrates that, at least under current conditions, active sampling is still the preferred method in freshwater systems with low flow compared to both passive sampling and fyke netting.
Monitoring of Endangered Freshwater Mussels in Sweden Using Digital PCR
Authors: Sundberg Per , Axberg Alizz , Daragmeh Nauras , Wengström Niklas , Panova Marina
Published: December 2024

Freshwater mussels are traditionally monitored by visual observations which is time‐consuming and can be difficult depending on water conditions. Environmental DNA (eDNA) is an attractive alternative since it can detect a species in the water without visual observations. Furthermore, since the DNA can potentially travel downstream in the river systems, presence of a species can be detected even away from the population of mussels. In this paper, we evaluate and describe how dPCR (digital PCR) technique can be used to efficiently monitor four freshwater mussel species: the freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera from Margaritiferidae family and three species from Unionidae family: the depressed river mussel Pseudanodonta complanata, the painter's mussel Unio pictorum, and the thick shelled river mussel Unio crassus, which are all regarded endangered in many regions worldwide. dPCR assays for the four mussel species were developed and tested in silico before conducting field surveys. The verification step in the field was carried out in two Swedish rivers with confirmed populations of the freshwater pearl mussel (M. margaritifera). Furthermore, two other rivers with unknown presence of the endangered freshwater mussels were surveyed for occurrence of the four mussel species, using the capacity to multiplex several species simultaneously in a dPCR reaction. We furthermore showed that the target DNA concentrations probably depend on the season and water level, which may largely affect the detection probability and interpretation of the results in terms of population size.
Seaweed‐Inspired NH4V4O10‐Ti3C2Tx MXene/Carbon Nanofibers for High‐Performance Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Seulgi , Woo Seojin , Byun Segi , Kim Hyunki , Kim Han Seul , Jeong Sang Mun , Lee Dongju
Published: December 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) have emerged as promising, practical energy storage devices based on their non‐toxic nature, environmental friendliness, and high energy density. However, excellent rate characteristics and stable long‐term cycling performance are essential. These essential aspects create a need for superior cathode materials, which represents a substantial challenge. In this study, we used MXenes as a framework for NH4V4O10 (NVO) construction and developed electrodes that combined the high capacity of NVO with the excellent conductivity of MXene/carbon nanofibers (MCNFs). We explored the electrochemical characteristics of electrodes with varying NVO contents. Considering the distinctive layered structure of NVO, the outstanding conductivity of MCNFs, and the strong synergies between the two components. NVO‐MCNFs exhibited better charge transfer compared with earlier materials, as well as more ion storage sites, excellent conductivity, and short ion diffusion pathways. A composite electrode with optimized NVO content exhibited an excellent specific capacitance of 360.6 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and an outstanding rate performance. In particular, even at a high current density of 10 A g−1, the 32NVO‐MCNF exhibited impressive cycling stability: 88.6% over 2500 cycles. The mechanism involved was discovered via comprehensive characterization. We expect that the fabricated nanofibers will be useful in energy storage and conversion systems.