bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modified mouse model of repeated mild traumatic brain injury through a thinned‐skull window and fluid percussion
Authors: Liu Yuncheng , Fan Zhiheng , Wang Jihui , Dong Xuefen , Ouyang Wei
Published: June 2023

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a clinically highly heterogeneous neurological disorder, none of the existing animal models can replicate the entire sequelae. This study aimed to develop a modified closed head injury (CHI) model of repeated mTBI (rmTBI) for investigating Ca2+ fluctuations of the affected neural network, the alternations of electrophysiology, and behavioral dysfunctions. The transcranial Ca2+ study protocol includes AAV‐GCaMP6s infection in the right motor cortex, thinned‐skull preparation, and two‐photon laser scanning microscopy (TPLSM) imaging. The CHI rmTBI model is fabricated using the thinned‐skull site and applying 2.0 atm fluid percussion with 48‐h interval. The neurological dysfunction, minor motor performance, evident mood, spatial working, and reference deficits we found in this study mimic the clinically relevant syndromes after mTBI. Besides, our study revealed that there was a trend of transition from Ca2+ singlepeak to multipeak and plateau, and the total Ca2+ activities of multipeaks and plateaus (p < .001 vs. pre‐rmTBI value) were significantly increased in ipsilateral layer 2/3 motor neurons after rm TBI. In parallel, there is a low‐frequency power shift from delta to theta band (p < .01 vs. control) in the ipsilateral layer 2/3 of motor cortex of the rmTBI mice, and the overall firing rates significantly increased (p < .01 vs. control). Moreover, rmTBI causes slight cortical and hippocampal neuron damage and possibly induces neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus (DG). The alternations of Ca2+ and electrophysiological characteristics in layer 2/3 neuronal network, histopathological changes, and possible neurogenesis may play concertedly and partially contribute to the functional outcome post‐rmTBI.
Intraseasonal variations in winter surface air temperature over China and its prediction skill in ECMWF System5
Authors: Zheng Ting , Zheng Zhihai , Feng Guolin , Zhi Rong , Zhao Yuheng
Published: June 2023

Based on the daily average temperature data of 2374 stations in China from 1993 to 2022 and the monthly average temperature data of European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) System5 in winter, this article analyses the intraseasonal variations of winter surface air temperature (SAT) over China by using seasonal empirical orthogonal function decomposition (S‐EOF) and compare the prediction skill differences of the first three dominant modes in ECMWF System5. The first mode (S‐EOF1) is characterized by out‐of‐phase changes in SAT anomalies (SATA) between December and January. Both the Siberian high (SH) and the central Pacific El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (CP ENSO) can impact S‐EOF1. The second mode (S‐EOF2) is characterized by consistency in warm anomalies over the Northeast and Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau's variation, while the other areas are characterized by the out‐of‐phase change in SATA. S‐EOF2 is closely related to Arctic oscillation (AO). The third mode is characterized by alternating changes over 3 months in winter, which is related to the Pacific meridional mode (PMM) and the North Atlantic SST tripole (NAT). Comparing the ECMWF System5 prediction skill for the first three leading modes for the intraseasonal variations in winter SAT, the prediction skill is not high. The model did not predict the extent of warm anomalies and the intraseasonal fluctuation in S‐EOF1, which may be due to the poor prediction skills for the range and intensity of the CP ENSO and the SH. The second mode has the highest prediction skill among the three modes. For the prediction skill of AO is good. The model can capture the intraseasonal reverse SATA between December and January but did not capture the reverse SATAs between January and February. Because the model does not predict obvious PMM and NAT well.
Design and implementation of an electronic opioid management plan to support consistent communication of opioid analgesia prescribing intentions to patients and general practitioners
Authors: Su Elizabeth , Aminian Parnaz , McMaster Christopher , Eyles Jade , Frauman Albert G. , Garrett Kent , Taylor Simone E. , Liew David F. L.
Published: June 2023

Opioid prescribing requires careful planning to minimise the risk of serious adverse outcomes. However, documentation of discharge opioid plans for patients and their general practitioners (GPs) is inconsistent, particularly when opioids are commenced in the emergency department or after surgery. We describe an initiative to promote consistent discharge opioid plan communication by implementing an opioid management plan (OMP) in our hospital's electronic medical record. Completion of an electronic form by the prescriber generates an OMP note in the medical history, which is used by the pharmacist to provide tailored opioid patient education. The OMP also populates the discharge summary that is sent to the GP and the Australian national digital health record platform, My Health Record. Preliminary evaluation shows incorporating OMP documentation into routine workflows has assisted prescribers to consistently document the plan for supplied opioids, supporting continuity of care. Workflow optimisation is ongoing to further improve discharge summary documentation and provision of patient‐friendly written information. This study was conducted as a quality improvement project and audits conducted as part of the project were approved by Austin Health's Office for Research (Project No: LNR/18/Austin/155). Informed patient consent was not required by Austin Health.
Polyoxyethylene glycol ethers of fatty alcohols used in cloud point extraction of Viola tricolor: Polyphenols solubilization, antioxidant activity studies and molecular dynamic simulations
Authors: Śliwa Paweł , Śliwa Karolina
Published: June 2023

The following paper proposes a modern method of obtaining an extract from Viola tricolor L. with a high rutin content and enhanced antioxidant activity. Conventional isolation of active substances from plant raw material is high‐cost, elaborate and often harmful to the environment. The ultrasonic assistance micelle‐mediated extraction method (UAMME) and the cloud‐point extraction/separation technique are interesting alternatives. This work discusses the relationship between salt concentration and the cloud‐point extraction (CPE) yield. The molecular dynamic simulations investigated the impact of hydrocarbon chain length and the ratio of oxyethylene/oxypropylene units of model surfactants on the interactions between extraction system components. Micellar extract from the Viola tricolor was obtained using C9‐11 Pareth‐5 at 1 wt/vol% and subsequently concentrated by CPE with the addition of NaCl in concentrations from 5% to 30%. For comparison, water and ethanol extracts were also prepared. Antioxidant properties, polyphenols and flavonoid contents were measured for all samples. The HPLC method was used to determine the rutin concentration. The simulation part of the study confirmed the dependence of bioflavonoid solubilization efficiency on the surfactant structure. The determined descriptors allowed for finding the optimal structure of the model surfactants and gave a hint for their application to obtain extracts with high concentrations of antioxidants.
Cervical facet capsular ligament mechanics: Estimations based on subject‐specific anatomy and kinematics
Authors: Nikpasand Maryam , Abbott Rebecca E. , Kage Craig C. , Singh Sagar , Winkelstein Beth A. , Barocas Victor H. , Ellingson Arin M.
Published: June 2023

Background

To understand the facet capsular ligament's (FCL) role in cervical spine mechanics, the interactions between the FCL and other spinal components must be examined. One approach is to develop a subject‐specific finite element (FE) model of the lower cervical spine, simulating the motion segments and their components' behaviors under physiological loading conditions. This approach can be particularly attractive when a patient's anatomical and kinematic data are available.

Methods

We developed and demonstrated methodology to create 3D subject‐specific models of the lower cervical spine, with a focus on facet capsular ligament biomechanics. Displacement‐controlled boundary conditions were applied to the vertebrae using kinematics extracted from biplane videoradiography during planar head motions, including axial rotation, lateral bending, and flexion–extension. The FCL geometries were generated by fitting a surface over the estimated ligament–bone attachment regions. The fiber structure and material characteristics of the ligament tissue were extracted from available human cervical FCL data. The method was demonstrated by application to the cervical geometry and kinematics of a healthy 23‐year‐old female subject.

Results

FCL strain within the resulting subject‐specific model were subsequently compared to models with generic: (1) geometry, (2) kinematics, and (3) material properties to assess the effect of model specificity. Asymmetry in both the kinematics and the anatomy led to asymmetry in strain fields, highlighting the importance of patient‐specific models. We also found that the calculated strain field was largely independent of constitutive model and driven by vertebrae morphology and motion, but the stress field showed more constitutive‐equation‐dependence, as would be expected given the highly constrained motion of cervical FCLs.

Conclusions

The current study provides a methodology to create a subject‐specific model of the cervical spine that can be used to investigate various clinical questions by coupling experimental kinematics with multiscale computational models.
Characterization and quantification of chemical constituents in Fuzhuan brick tea using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Chen Simin , Yuan Man , Zhang Yingling , Xu Yu , Xu Hongxi
Published: June 2023

Fuzhuan brick tea, a distinctive dark tea fermented by microorganisms, is a traditional beverage in China throughout history. Recently, it has attracted considerable attention owing to its unique quality characteristics and potential health benefits. The aim of this study was to establish a method for the quality control of Fuzhuan brick tea for stable production. Ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry was used to identify Fuzhuan brick tea, and the major components were chosen for further quantitative analysis. Subsequently, a quantification method was developed using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple‐quadrupole mass spectrometry, and its reliability was verified through methodological validation. Finally, a total of 30 compounds were identified, including catechins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and fatty acids. The established method was reliable for methodological validation and was applied to the quantitative analysis of Fuzhuan brick tea. This study provides a fundamental basis for the quality control and further studies on the component analysis of Fuzhuan brick tea.
Low carbon accumulation in a macro‐tidal mangrove forest on the Amazon coast
Authors: Passos Tiago , Bernardino Angelo F. , Penny Dan , Barcellos Roberto , Passos Francisco U. , Nobrega Gabriel N. , Ferreira Tiago O. , Kauffman J. Boone , Sanders Christian J.
Published: June 2023

The important role mangrove forests play in sequestering organic carbon is well known, yet rates of organic carbon accumulation in macro‐tidal mangrove ecosystems are poorly resolved. Here we use 210Pb dating to present a 125‐yr record of carbon, nutrient and trace metal accumulation in sediments from an Amazon macro‐tidal mangrove forest. We find that the rate of organic carbon accumulation ranged from 23.7 to 74.7 g m−2 yr−1 (average 38 ± 13.5 g m−2 yr−1), significantly lower than global averages for mangrove forests. These low rates may be associated with sediment grain‐size and sediment–water interface processes that drive organic matter oxidation and reduce carbon stocks in these highly dynamic macro‐tidal forests. Total nitrogen accumulation ranged from 1.4 to 5.1 g m−2 yr−1 (average 2.7 ± 0.9 g m−2 yr−1) and phosphorus from 1.5 to 8.4 g m−2 yr−1(average 4.3 ± 1.9 g m−2 yr−1). Trace metal accumulation rates (As, Pb, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Zn, Hg, Bo, V, Co, Mo, S, and Ba) were also lower than other tropical mangrove forests globally, but trace metal in more recent sediments for Mn, As, Cu, and Hg were elevated, likely reflecting human footprint in the region since early the 20th century. The ability to accurately quantify carbon accumulation rates in mangrove ecosystems is critical for climate change mitigation strategies and the implementation of carbon offset schemes globally.
Polymeric Nanoformulation of Zoledronic Acid Rescues Osteoblasts from the Harmful Effect of its Native Form: An In Vitro Investigation of Cytotoxic Potential on Osteoblasts and Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Dash Pratigyan , Samal Sasmita , Prasad Panda Gyanendra , Piras Anna Maria , Dash Mamoni
Published: June 2023

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a malignant tumor, fatal for pediatric patients who do not respond to chemotherapy, alternative therapies and drugs can provide better outcomes. Zoledronic acid (Zol) belonging to the class of bisphosphonates (BPs) has a direct antitumor ability to prevent Ras GTPases modification and stimulate apoptosis. Despite advances in maintaining balance in skeletal events and direct anticancer properties, Zol causes cytotoxicity to normal healthy pre‐osteoblast cells, hampering mineralization and differentiation. The study reports the preparation and evaluation of a nanoformulation that can diminish the existing drawbacks of native Zol. The cytotoxic effect is evaluated on bone cancer cells and healthy bone cells with three different cell lines namely, K7M2 (mouse OS cell line), SaOS2 (human OS cell line), and MC3T3E1 (healthy cell counterpart). It is observed that Zol nanoformulation is uptaken more (95%) in K7M2 whereas in MC3T3E1, the percent population internalizing nanoparticles (NPs) is 45%. Zol has a sustained release of 15% after 96 h from the NP which leads to a rescuing effect on the normal pre‐osteoblast cells. In conclusion, it can be stated that Zol nanoformulation can be used as a good platform for a sustained release system with minimum side effects to normal bone cells.
Analytik: Wildschweinleber als Bioindikator
Authors: Ehrensberger Christian
Published: June 2023

Per‐ und polyfluorierte Kohlenwasserstoffe sind persistente Umweltgifte. Zurzeit werden verstärkt Routineverfahren für die chemische Analytik und das Biomonitoring entwickelt.
Gründen: Welche Arten der Finanzierung sind möglich?
Authors: Festel Gunter
Published: June 2023

Welche Arten der Finanzierung sind möglich?
Bilanzen: Das Ende der Coronapandemie in Verkaufszahlen
Authors: Zbikowski Frauke
Published: June 2023

Die deutschen Laborzulieferer erzielten im letzten Jahr erstmals einen Umsatz von über elf Milliarden Euro. Die Zahlen sind allerdings durch die Inflation verzerrt. Zurück gingen die Umsätze mit Verbrauchsmaterialien wie Pipettenspitzen und Materialien für die medizinische Diagnostik.
Chemie in der Schule: Fachfremd unterrichten
Authors: Rautenstrauch Hanne , Busker Maike
Published: June 2023

Für das Schulfach Chemie gibt es nicht genug qualifizierte Lehrkräfte. Die Schulen setzen deswegen oft Lehrkräfte ein, die gar nicht Chemie studiert haben. Doch wie stehen fachfremd Unterrichtende zum Experimentieren im Unterricht? Setzen sie Experimente ein? Und welche Schwierigkeiten sehen sie dabei? Lehrerinnen und Lehrer aus Schleswig‐Holstein haben auf diese Fragen geantwortet.
Publizieren und KI: Vom Niedergang der akademischen Groschenromane
Authors: Bojdys Michael
Published: June 2023

Wie textgenerierende künstliche Intelligenz das erzählerische wissenschaftliche Publizieren herausfordern wird.
Metall‐Ligand‐Kooperativität: Gemeinsam stärker
Authors: Hadlington Terrance
Published: June 2023

Terrance Hadlington stellt das etablierte Konzept der Metall‐Ligand‐Kooperativität auf den Kopf und sucht nach Systemen, die eine Hydroaminierung von Alkenen mit Ammoniak erreichen können.
Analytical solutions for a fully coupled hydraulic‐mechanical‐chemical model with non‐zero initial concentration of contaminant
Authors: Han Lin , Zhang Zhihong
Published: June 2023

Analytical solutions for coupled problems are very significant for both understanding the physical mechanism and verifying the numerical methods. However, existing solutions usually focus on advection‐dispersion models without considering the coupling effect of contaminant transport or partial‐coupled models with the zero initial concentration (ZIC) condition, which are impractical in many engineering applications. This paper proposes novel analytical solutions to solve the non‐zero initial concentration (NZIC) problem for a fully‐coupled hydraulic‐mechanical‐chemical (HMC) model by Fourier transform. The proposed analytical solutions are highly competent and efficient compared with existing solutions from the literature. The solutions are applied to investigate the long‐term contaminant transport behavior and consequent deformation of clay liner under NZIC conditions. Results show that the presence of NZIC greatly promotes contaminant ions migration and shorten breakthrough time. The higher the initial concentration, the shorter the breakthrough time. When the initial concentration is increased by 3 and 5 times, the corresponding breakthrough time is reduced by 23.9 and 27.1 years, respectively. In practical engineering, neglecting the NZIC of contaminant can lead to an overestimation of performance efficiency of clay liners.
A highly accurate artificial neural networks scheme for solving higher multi‐order fractal‐fractional differential equations based on generalized Caputo derivative
Authors: Shloof A. M. , Ahmadian A. , Senu N. , Salahshour Soheil , Ibrahim S. N. I. , Pakdaman M.
Published: June 2023

Artificial neural networks have great potential for learning and stability in the face of tiny input data changes. As a result, artificial intelligence techniques and modeling tools have a growing variety of applications. To estimate a solution for fractal‐fractional differential equations (FFDEs) of high‐order linear (HOL) with variable coefficients, an iterative methodology based on a mix of a power series method and a neural network approach was applied in this study. In the algorithm's equation, an appropriate truncated series of the solution functions was replaced. To tackle the issue, this study uses a series expansion of an unidentified function, where this function is approximated using a neural architecture. Some examples were presented to illustrate the efficiency and usefulness of this technique to prove the concept's applicability. The proposed methodology was found to be very accurate when compared to other available traditional procedures. To determine the approximate solution to FFDEs‐HOL, the suggested technique is simple, highly efficient, and resilient.
Effectiveness of differentiated instruction on learning outcomes and learning satisfaction in the evidence‐based nursing course: Empirical research quantitative
Authors: Liou Shwu‐Ru , Cheng Ching‐Yu , Chu Tsui‐Ping , Chang Chia‐Hao , Liu Hsiu‐Chen
Published: June 2023

Aim

Diversified students in higher education and the complexity and difficulty of the evidence‐based nursing course perceived by students challenge nursing educators. Differentiated instruction can provide students with various opportunities to learn and meet the learning needs of students with different academic abilities and strengths, which may be a solution. This study aimed to apply differentiated instruction to design the undergraduate evidence‐based nursing course and evaluate the effects of differentiated instruction on students' learning outcomes and learning satisfaction.

Design

One‐group pretest–posttest pre‐experimental design was applied.

Methods

Ninety‐eight undergraduate nursing students enrolled in the evidence‐based nursing course 2020 participated in this study. Students' learning outcomes including preferred learning styles, classroom engagement, collaborative learning, attitudes towards evidence‐based nursing, learning satisfaction and evidence‐based nursing knowledge were measured using validated questionnaires.

Results

The differentiated instruction increased students' learning interests, promoted focused and independent thinking, and enhanced academic achievement. Students' classroom engagement, attitudes towards evidence‐based nursing, evidence‐based nursing knowledge and learning satisfaction were improved after the course. The course designed with differentiated instruction provided a supportive learning environment and furnished a vivid pedagogical way for the unique nursing profession.

Patient or Public Contribution

Positive results of the study support the application of differentiated instruction in the evidence‐based nursing course. The study indicates that the application of differentiated instruction in mixed‐ability classrooms in the evidence‐based nursing course improved students' learning outcomes, attitudes towards evidence‐based nursing, evidence‐based nursing knowledge and learning satisfaction. In clinical settings where nurses are even more diverse in academic education, clinical experiences and learning preferences, differentiated instruction can be a suitable application for in‐service training and education to promote nurses' enthusiasm for professional learning.
Consensus classification of pediatric hepatocellular tumors: A report from the Children's Hepatic tumors International Collaboration (CHIC)
Authors: Cho Soo‐Jin , Ranganathan Sarangarajan , Alaggio Rita , Maibach Rudolf , Tanaka Yukichi , Inoue Takeshi , Leuschner Ivo , de Krijger Ronald , Vokuhl Christian , Krailo Mark , Malogolowkin Marcio , Meyers Rebecka , Czauderna Piotr , Hiyama Eiso , Ansari Marc , Morland Bruce , Trobaugh‐Lotrario Angela , O'Neill Allison F. , Rangaswami Arun , Häberle Beate , López‐Terrada Dolores
Published: June 2023

Background

Liver tumors are rare in children with histologic heterogeneity that makes diagnosis challenging. Systematic histopathological review, performed as part of collaborative therapeutic protocols, identified relevant histologic subtypes that are important to distinguish. The Children's Hepatic tumors International Collaboration (CHIC) was established to study pediatric liver tumors on a global scale and led to establishment of a provisional consensus classification for use in international clinical trials. The current study is the validation of this initial classification and first large‐scale application by international expert reviewers.

Procedure

The CHIC initiative includes data from 1605 children treated on eight multicenter hepatoblastoma (HB) trials. Review of 605 available tumors was performed by seven expert pathologists from three consortia (US, EU, Japan). Cases with discordant diagnoses were collectively reviewed to reach a final consensus diagnosis.

Results

Of 599 cases with sufficient material for review, 570 (95.2%) were classified as HB by all consortia, and 29 (4.8%) as non‐HB, which included “hepatocellular neoplasm, NOS” and malignant rhabdoid tumors.

453 of 570 HBs were classified as epithelial by final consensus. Some patterns (i.e., small cell undifferentiated, macrotrabecular, cholangioblastic) were selectively identified by reviewers from different consortia. All consortia identified a similar number of mixed epithelial–mesenchymal HB.

Conclusions

This study represents the first large‐scale application and validation of the pediatric malignant hepatocellular tumors consensus classification. It is a valuable resource to train future generations of investigators on accurate diagnosis of these rare tumors and provides a framework for further international collaborative studies and refinement of the current classification of pediatric liver tumors.
Joint influence of architectural and spatiotemporal factors on the presence of Aedes aegypti in urban environments
Authors: Liao Jhih‐Rong , Tu Wu‐Chun , Chiu Ming‐Chih , Kuo Mei‐Hwa , Cheng Hui‐Ching , Chan Chia‐Chun , Dai Shu‐Mei
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Urbanization has led to the proliferation of high‐rise buildings, which have substantially influenced the distribution of dengue vectors, such as Aedes aegypti (L.). However, knowledge gaps exist regarding the individual and combined effects of architectural and spatiotemporal factors on dengue vector. This study investigated the interrelationship between Ae. aegypti presence, building architectural features, and spatiotemporal factors in urban environments.

RESULTS

The mosquito Ae. aegypti presence varied by location and seasons, being higher in outdoor environments than in indoor environments. Lingya (Kaohsiung City, Taiwan) had the highest mosquito numbers, particularly in basement and first floor areas. Ae. aegypti was found on multiple floors within buildings, and their presence was greater in summer and autumn. The XGBoost model revealed that height within a building, temperature, humidity, resident density, and rainfall were key factors influencing mosquito presence, whereas openness had a relatively minor impact.

CONCLUSION

To effectively address the problems caused by urbanization, the three‐dimensional distribution of Ae. aegypti, including their spatial distribution across heights and areas within the urban environment, must be considered. By incorporating these multiple factors, this approach provides valuable insights for those responsible for urban planning and disease management strategies. Understanding the interplay between architectural features, environmental conditions, and the presence of Ae. aegypti is essential for developing targeted interventions and mitigating the adverse impacts of urbanization on public health. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Solution‐Processed PEDOT:PSS/p‐Si/ZnO Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Jiang Wenzheng , Wang Yu , Jiao Chaohui , Wang Yang , Zhao Yonggang , Lv Mingzhi , Fan Zining , Fu Yujun , Li Junshuai , Liu Qiming , He Deyan
Published: June 2023

With the introduction of the concept of dopant‐free carrier‐selective contact for c‐Si photovoltaics, Si‐based heterojunction solar cells can greatly reduce production costs by optimizing the manufacturing process while maintaining high power conversion efficiency. Compared with processes that rely on complex vacuum equipment, low‐temperature solution processing has many advantages over conventional silicon solar cells. However, research on low‐cost and high‐efficiency solar cells based on p‐type crystalline silicon is relatively rare. From the point of view regards energy band matching, the inorganic metal oxide semiconductor material ZnO is well suited for low‐cost solution method studies due to its easy preparation, very high transmittance in the visible spectrum, low cost, and suitable energy levels matching p‐Si. Herein, ZnO is spin coated on the back of p‐Si to form a heterojunction, together with spin coating of PEDOT:PSS on the front side as the hole transport layer and passivation layer, a PEDOT:PSS/p‐Si/ZnO‐structured p‐Si‐based backcontact hybrid solar cell is successfully fabricated at low temperature (≤135 °C) via solution process with a PCE of 9.77% (Voc = 0.56 V, Jsc = 25.99 mA cm−2, fill factor = 67.10%). This work provides a promising approach for fabricating high‐performance and low‐cost silicon‐based heterojunction solar cells.
Quantum Sensing via Magnetic‐Noise‐Protected States in an Electronic Spin Dyad
Authors: Meriles Carlos A. , Zangara Pablo R. , Pagliero Daniela
Published: June 2023

Extending the coherence lifetime of a qubit is central to the implementation and deployment of quantum technologies, particularly in the solid state where various noise sources intrinsic to the material host play a limiting role. This study examines theoretically the coherent spin dynamics of a hetero‐spin system formed by a spin featuring a non‐zero crystal field and in proximity to a paramagnetic center . An analysis of the energy level structure of the dyad shows this system exhibits apair of levels separated by a magnetic‐field‐insensitive energy gap, which can be exploited to create long‐lived zero‐quantum coherences. It is found that these coherences are selectively sensitive to “local”—as opposed to “global”—magnetic field fluctuations, suggesting these spin dyads can serve as a nanoscale gradiometer for precision magnetometry. On the other hand, the distinct response of either spin species to electric or thermal stimuli allows one to implement alternative sensing protocols for magnetic‐noise‐free electrometry and thermometry.
Hormonal support in women with Asherman syndrome does not lead to better outcomes: A randomized trial
Authors: Hanstede Miriam M. F. , van Stralen Karlijn J. , Molkenboer Jan F. M. , Veersema Sebastiaan , Emanuel Mark Hans
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to investigate if adjuvant hormones after successful adhesiolysis lead to a reduction in spontaneous recurrence of adhesions and influence reproductive outcomes.

Methods

A single‐blind randomized controlled trial comparing administration of oral estrogen (the usual care group) with not giving estrogen (no estrogen) in women after successful adhesiolysis for Asherman syndrome. Women were included between September 2013 and February 2017, with a follow‐up of 3 years to monitor recurrences and reproductive outcomes. Analyses were based on an intention to treat analyses. This study was registered under NL9655.

Results

A total of 114 women were included. At 1 year, virtually all patients (except 3) were either having a recurrence or were pregnant. Women who did not receive estrogen did not have more recurrences of adhesions in the first year prior to pregnancy (66.1% in the usual care group, 52.7% in the no‐estrogen group, p = 0.15). Of the women in usual care, 89.8% got pregnant within 3 years, and 67.8% got a living child; this was 83.6% and 60.0%, respectively, in the no‐estrogen group (p = 0.33 and p = 0.39, respectively).

Conclusion

Usual care does not lead to better outcomes as compared with not giving exogenous estrogen but is associated with side effects.
Direct Induction of Porous Graphene from Mechanically Strong and Waterproof Biopaper for On‐Chip Multifunctional Flexible Electronics
Authors: Zhao Nan , Zhang Hanwen , Yang Shuhong , Sun Yisheng , Zhao Ganggang , Fan Wenjun , Yan Zheng , Lin Jian , Wan Caixia
Published: June 2023

Graphene with a 3D porous structure is directly laser‐induced on lignocellulosic biopaper under ambient conditions and is further explored for multifunctional biomass‐based flexible electronics. The mechanically strong, flexible, and waterproof biopaper is fabricated by surface‐functionalizing cellulose with lignin‐based epoxy acrylate (LBEA). This composite biopaper shows as high as a threefold increase in tensile strength and excellent waterproofing compared with pure cellulose one. Direct laser writing (DLW) rapidly induces porous graphene from the biopaper in a single step. The porous graphene shows an interconnected carbon network, well‐defined graphene domains, and high electrical conductivity (e.g., ≈3 Ω per square), which can be tuned by lignin precursors and loadings as well as lasing conditions. The biopaper in situ embedded with porous graphene is facilely fabricated into flexible electronics for on‐chip and paper‐based applications. The biopaper‐based electronic devices, including the all‐solid‐state planer supercapacitor, electrochemical and strain biosensors, and Joule heater, show great performances. This study demonstrates the facile, versatile, and low‐cost fabrication of multifunctional graphene‐based electronics from lignocellulose‐based biopaper.
An Unusual Microdomain Factor Controls Interaction of Organic Halides with the Palladium Phase and Influences Catalytic Activity in the Mizoroki‐Heck Reaction
Authors: Kashin Alexey S. , Prima Darya O. , Arkhipova Daria M. , Ananikov Valentine P.
Published: June 2023

In this work, using a combination of scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), the transformations of palladium‐containing species in imidazolium ionic liquids in reaction mixtures of the Mizoroki‐Heck reaction and in related organic media are studied to understand a challenging question of the relative reactivity of organic halides as key substrates in modern catalytic technologies. The microscopy technique detects the formation of a stable nanosized palladium phase under the action of an aryl (Ar) halide capable of forming microcompartments in an ionic liquid. For the first time, the correlation between the reactivity of the aryl halide and the microdomain structure is observed: Ar‐I (well‐developed microdomains) > Ar‐Br (microphase present) > Ar‐Cl (minor amount of microphase). Previously, it is assumed that molecular level factors, namely, carbon‐halogen bond strength and the ease of bond breakage, are the sole factors determining the reactivity of aryl halides in catalytic transformations. The present work reports a new factor connected with the nature of the organic substrates used and their ability to form a microdomain structure and concentrate metallic species, highlighting the importance of considering both the molecular and microscale properties of the reaction mixtures.
Tri‐Layered Bicomponent Microfilament Composite Fabric for Highly Efficient Cold Protection
Authors: Zhang Heng , Zhai Qian , Guan Xiaoyu , Zhen Qi , Qian Xiaoming
Published: June 2023

Functional thin fabric with highly efficient cold protection properties are attracting the great attention of long‐term dressing in a cold environment. Herein, a tri‐layered bicomponent microfilament composite fabric comprised of a hydrophobic layer of PET/PA@C6F13 bicomponent microfilament webs, an adhesive layer of LPET/PET fibrous web, and a fluffy‐soft layer of PET/Cellulous fibrous web is designed and also successfully been fabricated through a facile process of dipping, combined with thermal belt bonding. The prepared samples exhibit a large resistance to wetting of alcohol, a high hydrostatic pressure of 5530 Pa, and brilliant water slipping properties, owing to the presence of dense micropores ranging from 25.1 to 70.3 µm, as well as to the smooth surface with an arithmetic mean deviation of surface roughness (Sa) ranging from 5.112 to 4.369 µm. Besides, the prepared samples exhibited good water vapor permeability, and a tunable CLO value ranging from 0.569 to 0.920, in addition to the fact that it exhibited a very suitable working temperature range of −5 °C to 15 °C. Additionally, it also showed excellent clothing tailorability including high mechanical strength with a remarkably soft texture and lightweight foldability that suitable for cold outdoor clothing applications.
Bioenergy and nutrition: Positive linkages for the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Testa Lorenzo , Morese Maria Michela , Miller Constance , Traverso Lorenzo , Pirelli Tiziana , Fracassi Patrizia , Kato Tomoko , McGinnis Caitlin , Colangeli Marco , Chiaramonti David
Published: June 2023

Bioenergy and nutrition represent two key elements in maintaining health and well‐being. Bioenergy is a form of renewable energy produced from organic materials, which can be used for generating power, while nutrition, on the other hand, is related to the ability of food to provide the proper nutrients to living beings and the factors that make up a healthy diet. The 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda has brought considerable attention to the importance of food security and nutrition, particularly under SDG2, while concurrently highlighting the need to ensure affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy access for all under SDG7. The accomplishment of these two Goals is crucial for almost all others, as they are closely interconnected with many cross‐cutting elements and commonly framed in the Water Energy Food Nexus. In this context, modern bioenergy has the potential to aid in the accomplishment of the SDGs, when value chains and conversion processes are designed and managed in an appropriate and sustainable manner. Nevertheless, the positive relationship between bioenergy and nutrition is an overlooked nexus, whose analysis has been too often limited to the competition for resources, such as land, water, energy, and other inputs. Considering this, the present review was developed for both the nutrition and bioenergy communities to begin to overcome the limits of the food versus fuel paradigm, by analyzing this intricate nexus and bringing to light interlinkages and potential synergies existing between bioenergy and nutrition. So far, such linkages appear indirect or implied, therefore further research in this area would be beneficial. The strongest links between bioenergy and nutrition identified include: greater cooking efficiency, reduced indoor air pollution, and improved environmental sanitation through bioenergy clean cooking solutions; energy access for transporting, storing, and cooking food, thus reducing food loss and waste and diversifying diets; improved soil fertility through Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), phytoremediation, and integrated biomass production systems; and better rural livelihoods and increased income by introducing bioenergy production and use as a circular economy practice. The major significance of this review is the identification of examples of good practices applied along the different stages of the bioenergy value chain with potential co‐benefits for nutrition. In this way, this work aims to provide preliminary findings for researchers to better determine the ways in which bioenergy can be deployed to improve global nutrition.

This article is categorized under:

Sustainable Energy > Bioenergy

Sustainable Development > Goals

Sustainable Development > Energy‐Water‐Food Nexus
SKI complex: A multifaceted cytoplasmic RNA exosome cofactor in mRNA metabolism with links to disease, developmental processes, and antiviral responses
Authors: Tomecki Rafal , Drazkowska Karolina , Kobylecki Kamil , Tudek Agnieszka
Published: June 2023

RNA stability and quality control are integral parts of gene expression regulation. A key factor shaping eukaryotic transcriptomes, mainly via 3′–5′ exoribonucleolytic trimming or degradation of diverse transcripts in nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments, is the RNA exosome. Precise exosome targeting to various RNA molecules requires strict collaboration with specialized auxiliary factors, which facilitate interactions with its substrates. The predominant class of cytoplasmic RNA targeted by the exosome are protein‐coding transcripts, which are carefully scrutinized for errors during translation. Normal, functional mRNAs are turned over following protein synthesis by the exosome or by Xrn1 5′–3′‐exonuclease, acting in concert with Dcp1/2 decapping complex. In turn, aberrant transcripts are eliminated by dedicated surveillance pathways, triggered whenever ribosome translocation is impaired. Cytoplasmic 3′–5′ mRNA decay and surveillance are dependent on the tight cooperation between the exosome and its evolutionary conserved co‐factor—the SKI (superkiller) complex (SKIc). Here, we summarize recent findings from structural, biochemical, and functional studies of SKIc roles in controlling cytoplasmic RNA metabolism, including links to various cellular processes. Mechanism of SKIc action is illuminated by presentation of its spatial structure and details of its interactions with exosome and ribosome. Furthermore, contribution of SKIc and exosome to various mRNA decay pathways, usually converging on recycling of ribosomal subunits, is delineated. A crucial physiological role of SKIc is emphasized by describing association between its dysfunction and devastating human disease—a trichohepatoenteric syndrome (THES). Eventually, we discuss SKIc functions in the regulation of antiviral defense systems, cell signaling and developmental transitions, emerging from interdisciplinary investigations.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Turnover/Surveillance Mechanisms

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA‐Protein Complexes
Opening Lecture: Digital Spaces and the Material Culture
Authors: Montani Pietro
Published: June 2023

In this article, I will develop the following points: (1) The imagination is structurally technological as it is entangled with historically dominant technologies; (2) these orientate the reconfiguration of its multimodality, i.e., the fact that the imagination does not work only on the optical and visual level but extends its action to all of our sensorimotor system; (3) how this re-modeling is influenced by digital technologies remains to be clarified; and (4) in this problematic field, there are two opposing lines of development, which I will treat with some examples.
BIM and BPMN 2.0 Integration for Interoperability Challenge in Construction Industry
Authors: Al-Siah Hosam , Fioravanti Antonio
Published: June 2023

Interoperability is a growing challenge for the construction industry in general, especially for the designing process, where it is exposed to many challenges due to the most critical part of this sector that related to heterogeneous information exchange. Particularly, during the implementation of a project where there is a need for sharing and exchanging a huge amount of data among several actors to accomplish the design process. Therefore, the need for real supportive tools has emerged to facilitate the process of data collection and digitalization in order to automate the whole process. However, different kinds of issues prevent improving the interoperability in the ACE industry. This paper focuses on the barriers of improving the interoperability in this industry sector and proposes a new method of linking and collecting the data from different actors. To this objective cloud storage for flowcharts and building information model “BIM” have been used. One of the best flowcharting languages—Business Process Modelling and Notation “BPMN” 2.0—has been adopted, where the data will be collected and the process will be explained and connected directly to the BIM model to be reviewed, used, and saved.
Technologies for the Construction of Buildings and Cities of the Near Future
Authors: Arbizzani Eugenio
Published: June 2023

The objectives and solutions that become necessary, within the green and digital transition, can radically interfere with existing methods for designing and producing buildings and portions of cities. The “factory” and the “construction site” were one and the same thing, in the production of buildings, up until the seventies of the last century. Following the advent of prefabrication, the factory has gradually been separated from the construction site, to the point where industrial manufacturing now accounts for much of the production value of buildings through the dry-assembly of factory-made products and components. The development of enabling technologies involves knowledge-intensive technologies associated with a high level of research and development, rapid innovation cycles, substantial investment costs and highly qualified jobs. The development of this field could produce a new chain of industrial services for companies based in our country.
Digital Transformation Projects for the Future Digicircular Society
Authors: Fiesoli Irene
Published: June 2023

The rapid technological development leads us to identify innovation with technology itself. This becomes the core piece of the innovation process in all sectors. In reality, digital transformation has the power to change the meaning of things (Epifani in Digital sustainability: why sustainability cannot disregard digital transformation. Digital Transformation Institute, Rome, 2020) and therefore needs to cultivate a strategic vision of systems and scenarios that can be implemented only through creative design. Designers, thanks to their ability to see, show, predict (Zurlo in Le strategie del design. Disegnare il valore oltre il prodotto. Libraccio editore, Milan, 2021), and design the future, have the role of meeting the challenges posed by digital evolution. This dichotomy between digital and sustainability is analyzed in the article thanks to the workshop “Space Transformation/Industrial Living Environment,” a pilot project for the valorization of productivity in the Valdelsa Senese area that involves, in interdisciplinary groups, students from the various design fields of the School of Architecture of the University of Florence. Another example of planning is the project SMAG—SMArt Garden (Tuscany Region Call RSI—POR FESR 2014–2020), which develops a product-service system equipped with an advanced technological set-up able to control vital parameters of public or private green spaces, using the Internet of things. These examples underline how the physical and digital worlds are interfacing more and more and getting closer. In this scenario, the role of the project is even more important because it allows to manage and direct the innovation and change processes in the direction of a “digicircular” transformation (Epifani in Digital sustainability: why sustainability cannot disregard digital transformation. Digital Transformation Institute, Rome, 2020).
A Systematic Catalogue of Design Solutions for the Regeneration of Urban Environment Contrasting the Climate Change Impact
Authors: Bologna Roberto , Hasanaj Giulio
Published: June 2023

The article illustrates a research for the definition of a catalogue of design solutions for climate change adaptation in the process of urban regeneration, reducing the vulnerability to climate change impacts and increasing the city resilience. Based on the analysis of relevant case studies of architectural and urban projects in the main biogeographical regions of Europe, the paper describes the research methodology applied for the construction of a catalogue of spatial and technological adaptive design models mainly focusing on the category of “nature-based solutions” but also considering “artificial solutions”. In order to assess their effectiveness, different design alternatives are tested in a specific urban contest (a school courtyard in the City of Scandicci–Metropolitan City of Florence) prone to climate hazards of urban heat islands and pluvial flooding, simulating the impact on the more vulnerable user (children between 11 and 14 years old). For an adequate performance evaluation of multi-hazard effectiveness of the different adaptive design solutions, appropriate IT software and procedural models have been applied: ENVI-met microclimatic simulation software for thermal analysis and predictive method for hydraulic assessment. By comparing the results before and after the application, the climate-adaptive performance of alternative design solutions is measured through specific indicators. This approach is coherent to the design process management aiming to a predictive definition of performance evaluation through procedural models and digital instruments in order to properly address the complexity of architectural and urban project. The systematic catalogue of adaptive design solution offers useful tools and methods to designers and decision makers for the construction of climate change adaptation and mitigation plans in order to build a healthy and safe urban environment for citizens and drive an ecological and sustainable transition to green cities.