bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing China's Rural Reform Programs and the Lessons for Africa's Agriculture Development. A Review
Authors: Udimal Thomas Bilaliib , Jincai Zhuang , Asante Antwi Henry , Cong Chen , Samuel Mensah Owusu
Published: September 2017

Since the 2008 global financial crisis, many African governments are now turning to China for the much needed loans and technical expertise to undertake developmental projects. Meanwhile China and Africa exhibited similar socio-economic conditions some three decades ago; high poverty rates and agrarian dominated economies with very low per capita incomes. However, in the past few years, even as Africa remains at the bottom of global economic rankings, China is progressively emerging as the world’s economic powerhouse. This paper examines the literature on how China’s rural reforms program facilitated the country’s fast economic transformation. The reforms process brought about institutional reforms that brought immense changes in the agriculture sector. The institutional reforms led to an increase in public investment in the area of R & D, irrigation, rural education, road, and electricity, which contributed to the growth in agricultural productivity and rural poverty reduction. It is these interventions brought in by the reforms that resulted in the miracle growth experienced by China.
Obtaining Easily Sums of Powers on Arithmetic Progressions and Properties of Bernoulli Polynomials by Operator Calculus
Authors: Tan Si Do
Published: September 2017

We show that a sum of powers on an arithmetic progression is the transform of a monomial by a differential operator and that its generating function is simply related to that of the Bernoulli polynomials from which consequently it may be calculated. Besides, we show that it is obtainable also from the sums of powers of integers, i.e. from the Bernoulli numbers which in turn may be calculated by a simple algorithm.By the way, for didactic purpose, operator calculus is utilized for proving in a concise manner the main properties of the Bernoulli polynomials.
K-loop Structures Raised by the Direct Limits of Pseudo Unitary $U(p, a_{n})$ and Pseudo Orthogonal $O(p, a_{n})$ Groups
Authors: BULUT ALPER
Published: September 2017

A left Bol loop satisfying the automorphic inverse property is called a K-loop or a gyrocommutative gyrogroup. K-loops have been in the centre of attraction since its first discovery by A.A. Ungar in the context of Einstein's 1905 relativistic theory. In this paper some of the infinite dimensional K-loops are built from the direct limit of finite dimensional group transversals.
Estratégias de visibilidade e ações docentes no Twitter
Authors: Santana Camila Lima Santana e , Couto Edvaldo Souza
Published: September 2017

O artigo resulta de uma pesquisa que analisou estratégias de visibilidade e ações docentes utilizadas por professores brasileiros no Twitter. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, de cunho netnográfico, realizado através de observação encoberta e análise de tweets de  um grupo que possui conta ativa no Twitter. O argumento central é que a visibilidade no Twitter é um capital social forjado por meio das estratégias que os sujeitos instituem nos Sites de Redes Sociais. Esse capital é singular, considerando que estar ativamente na rede, opinando, tecendo considerações, compartilhando, constitui-se ação educativa e resulta em valorização social e econômica. O estudo conclui que a visibilidade mediada no Twitter é uma forma de alcançar valorização social na dimensão docente, pois alcançar visibilidade é acumular tipos de capital social, sendo, portanto, uma estratégia profissional.
El bloqueo, evitable, de la formación del Gobierno: una propuesta de reforma del procedimiento de investidura
Authors: Giménez Gluck David
Published: September 2017

Resumen:En el año 2016 nuestro sistema institucional sufrió un prolongado bloqueo, al no ser capaz de formar un Gobierno. Dicho bloqueo se debió, principalmente, a factores relacionados con la coyuntura política. Sin embargo, también puso en evidencia que la regulación constitucional del proceso de investidura es francamente mejorable.Una mirada al Derecho comparado nos enseña que otros sistemas han sido capaces de evitar el bloqueo del procedimiento de formación del Gobierno en situaciones políticas parecidas a la nuestra. Tras el estudio de lo recogido en otros países, el artículo propone una reforma constitucional centrada en dotar de mayor margen de maniobra a la institución que propone el candidato a Presidente del Gobierno, en establecer plazos que acoten el proceso y en cambiar el sistema de votación de la investidura. El objetivo de la propuesta es dotar a nuestro sistema constitucional de instrumentos para evitar que se repita en un futuro próximo el bloqueo que hemos vivido.Abstract:In 2016 our institutional system suffered a prolonged blockade, not be able to form a Government. This was due, mainly, to factors related with the political situation. However, it also put in evidence that the constitutional regulation of the process of investiture can be improved. A look at the comparative law teaches us that other systems have been able to avoid the blocking of the procedure for Government formation in political situations similar to ours. After the study of others countries regulation, the article proposes a constitutional reform focused on improving maneuverability to the institution that proposes the candidate to be President of the Government, in establishing deadlines that delimit the process and in changing the system of voting of the investiture. The purpose of the proposal is to provide to our constitutional system instruments to avoid, in the near future, a repetition of the lock that we experienced.
Effect of amino acids on pigments, citrinin, and lovastatin production by Monascus purpureus under static conditions
Authors: Talapragada Padmavathi , Dikshit Rashmi , Phocas Mudaheranwa , M.R. Madhusudan. , Samprathi Sanjana
Published: September 2017

Monascus spp. is known to produce many secondary metabolites including pigments, statin, and undesired mycotoxin.
M. purpureus MTCC 410 strain was grown statically for ten days in potato dextrose broth supplemented with 1% UV sterilized amino acids. Whatmann filter No. 1 was used to separate the developed mycelia from the broth to get the intracellular pigment as the extracellular one is left in the filtrate. The pigment concentration was estimated by the calorimetric method for different wavelengths and expressed in colour value units (CVU). The presence of citrinin in the growth medium was checked under UV light at 350 nm and quantification was done with highperformance liquid chromatography column along with loop injector of 20 μl, and Shimadzu CLASS-VP version 5.032 software.
The maximum biomass (143.6 g/l) was observed with supplementation of 1% D-serine to the medium, whereas the maximum intracellular pigment yield was observed with supplementation of L-histidine monohydrochoride (yellow – 4.48, orange – 3.97 and red pigment – 2.0 CVU/ml). The maximum extracellular pigment yield was observed with supplementation of glycine (yellow – 2.18, orange – 1.65 and red pigment – 1.38 CVU/ml to the growth medium). The maximum lovastatin yield was observed with supplementation of L-cysteine mono hydrochloride and concentration of 2064 mg/l. Maximum citrinin (1.29 mg/l) was observed with supplementation of DL-norleucine to the growht medium.
M. purpureus requires suitable concentration of organic nitrogen in the form of amino acids for a higher yield of secondary metabolites such as supplementation of 1% L-cysteine monohydrochloride or L-tyrosine in the growth medium under submerged cultivation. None of the tested amino acids produced citrinin under experimental conditions making the outcome beneficial for industrial purposes.
Laelapidae mites (Acari: Mesostigmata) infesting small rodents in the Curonian Spit, Lithuania
Authors: Kaminskienė Evelina , Radzijevskaja Jana , Balčiauskas Linas , Gedminas Vaclovas , Paulauskas Algimantas
Published: September 2017

Laelapidae (Acari, Mesostigmata) mites are ecologically diverse and involve predators and parasites found in various habitats. In the present study, Laelapidae mites were collected from 236 small rodents of five species (the yellow-necked mouse Apodemus flavicollis, the harvest mouse Micromys minutus, the bank vole Myodes glareolus, the root vole Microtus oeconomus, and the field vole Microtus agrestis) in the Curonian Spit in 2013–2014. Five species of Laelapidae mites – Laelaps agilis, Hyperlaelaps microti, Haemogamassus nidi, Eulaelaps stabularis and Myonyssus gigas – were identified based on the morphological characters of adult females and males. The present study is the first detection of Laelapidae mites parasitizing small rodents in the Curonian Spit, Lithuania.
Influence of NMDA and GABA synaptic dysfunction on the evoked gamma oscillations in a computational model of schizophrenia
Authors: Jackevičius Rokas , Graham Bruce P. , Saudargienė Aušra
Published: September 2017

Background. Schizophrenia is a psychiatric disorder which is characterized by delusions and hallucinations, and affects thoughts, behaviour and emotions. Major neuronal degeneration is not observed in schizophrenic patients, but abnormalities in cortical circuits are present. These abnormalities are reflected in impaired EEG gamma frequency (30–80 Hz), being crucial for many processes including sensation, perception, working memory, and attention. NMDA and GABA synaptic dysfunction is proposed as one of the possible mechanisms underlying the gamma oscillatory deficits in schizophrenia.
Materials and Methods. We used a computational modeling approach to investigate the joint influence of NMDA and GABA synaptic dysfunction on gamma oscillations in cortex. We employed a computational model of a spiking neural network composed of 800 pyramidal neurons, 150 regular-spiking interneurons, and 50 fast-spiking interneurons. All cells were randomly interconnected. Network neurons received independent Poisson noise input at 4 Hz and 40 Hz drive excitatory stimulation. Fast-spiking interneuron GABA receptor-gated channel time constant was increased and NMDA receptor-gated channel synaptic conductance was decreased to represent synaptic dysfunction in schizophrenia.
Results. Reducing NMDA conductance enhanced gamma power, and increasing decay time constant of GABA receptorgated channel attenuated gamma generation in a network. The effect of synaptic GABA alteration was more profound.
Conclusions. NMDA and GABA synaptic dysfunction leads to the impaired gamma frequency oscillations in a spiking neural network of cortex. Computational modeling approach is a powerful tool to understand complex non-linear dynamical systems and intrinsic mechanisms of neuronal network activity in healthy and diseased brain.
Making Sanctuary for the Divine: Exploring Melissa Raphael’s Holocaust Theology
Authors: Pramuk Christopher
Published: September 2017

This article details the author’s experience introducing Melissa Raphael’s 2003 book, The Female Face of God in Auschwitz: A Jewish Feminist Theology of the Holocaust, to predominantly Christian undergraduate and graduate theology students, and makes the case that her work deserves greater attention in Catholic and Christian theological circles. In provocative ways that elude systematic categorization, Raphael’s sensitive retrieval and theological interpretation of death-camp narratives builds a bridge between the Jewish and Christian memory of God that comes to bear especially on the theodicy question as intensified in the suffering of women, children, and the planet Earth. The mystical and theopoetical character of Raphael's method finds deep, if unsettling, resonance in students from widely diverse backgrounds.
Misdiagnosis of HIV infection during a South African community‐based survey: implications for rapid HIV testing
Authors: Kufa Tendesayi , Kharsany Ayesha BM , Cawood Cherie , Khanyile David , Lewis Lara , Grobler Anneke , Chipeta Zawadi , Bere Alfred , Glenshaw Mary , Puren Adrian
Published: September 2017

Introduction: We describe the overall accuracy and performance of a serial rapid HIV testing algorithm used in community‐based HIV testing in the context of a population‐based household survey conducted in two sub‐districts of uMgungundlovu district, KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa, against reference fourth‐generation HIV‐1/2 antibody and p24 antigen combination immunoassays. We discuss implications of the findings on rapid HIV testing programmes.

Methods: Cross‐sectional design: Following enrolment into the survey, questionnaires were administered to eligible and consenting participants in order to obtain demographic and HIV‐related data. Peripheral blood samples were collected for HIV‐related testing. Participants were offered community‐based HIV testing in the home by trained field workers using a serial algorithm with two rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) in series. In the laboratory, reference HIV testing was conducted using two fourth‐generation immunoassays with all positives in the confirmatory test considered true positives. Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and false‐positive and false‐negative rates were determined.

Results: Of 10,236 individuals enrolled in the survey, 3740 were tested in the home (median age 24 years (interquartile range 19–31 years), 42.1% males and HIV positivity on RDT algorithm 8.0%). From those tested, 3729 (99.7%) had a definitive RDT result as well as a laboratory immunoassay result. The overall accuracy of the RDT when compared to the fourth‐generation immunoassays was 98.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 98.5–99.2). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 91.1% (95% CI 87.5–93.7), 99.9% (95% CI 99.8–100), 99.3% (95% CI 97.4–99.8) and 99.1% (95% CI 98.8–99.4) respectively. The false‐positive and false‐negative rates were 0.06% (95% CI 0.01–0.24) and 8.9% (95% CI 6.3–12.53). Compared to true positives, false negatives were more likely to be recently infected on limited antigen avidity assay and to report antiretroviral therapy (ART) use.

Conclusions: The overall accuracy of the RDT algorithm was high. However, there were few false positives, and the sensitivity was lower than expected with high false negatives, despite implementation of quality assurance measures. False negatives were associated with recent (early) infection and ART exposure. The RDT algorithm was able to correctly identify the majority of HIV infections in community‐based HIV testing. Messaging on the potential for false positives and false negatives should be included in these programmes.
The contribution of NintendoWii Fitseries in the field of health: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tripette Julien , Murakami Haruka , Ryan Katie Rose , Ohta Yuji , Miyachi Motohiko
Published: September 2017

Background

Wii Fitwas originally designed as a health and fitness interactive training experience for the general public. There are, however, many examples ofWii Fitbeing utilized in clinical settings. This article aims to identify the contribution ofWii Fitin the field of health promotion and rehabilitation by: (1) identifying the health-related domains for which theWii Fitseries has been tested, (2) clarifying the effect ofWii Fitin those identified health-related domains and (3) quantifying this effect.

Method

A systematic literature review was undertaken. The MEDLINE database andGames for Health Journalpublished content were explored using the search term “Wii-Fit.” Occurrences resulting from manual searches on Google and material suggested by experts in the field were also considered. Included articles were required to have measurements fromWii Fitactivities for at least one relevant health indicator. The effect ofWii Fitinterventions was assessed using meta-analyses for the following outcomes: activity-specific balance confidence score, Berg balance score (BBC) and time-up-and-go test (TUG).

Findings

A total of 115 articles highlighted that theWii Fithas been tested in numerous healthy and pathological populations. Out of these, only a few intervention studies have focused on the prevention of chronic diseases. A large proportion of the studies focus on balance training (N= 55). This systematic review highlights several potential benefits ofWii Fitinterventions and these positive observations are supported by meta-analyses data (N= 25). For example, the BBC and the TUG respond to a similar extend toWii Fitinterventions compared with traditional training.

Conclusion

Wii Fithas the potential to be used as a rehabilitation tool in different clinical situations. However, the current literature includes relatively few randomized controlled trials in each population. Further research is therefore required.
Growth, stoichiometry and cell size; temperature and nutrient responses in haptophytes
Authors: Skau Lars Fredrik , Andersen Tom , Thrane Jan-Erik , Hessen Dag Olav
Published: September 2017

Temperature and nutrients are key factors affecting the growth, cell size, and physiology of marine phytoplankton. In the ocean, temperature and nutrient availability often co-vary because temperature drives vertical stratification, which further controls nutrient upwelling. This makes it difficult to disentangle the effects of temperature and nutrients on phytoplankton purely from observational studies. In this study, we carried out a factorial experiment crossing two temperatures (13°and 19°C) with two growth regimes (P-limited, semi-continuous batch cultures [“−P”] and nutrient replete batch cultures in turbidostat mode [“+P”]) for three species of common marine haptophytes (Emiliania huxleyi, Chrysochromulina rotalis and Prymnesium polylepis) to address the effects of temperature and nutrient limitation on elemental content and stoichiometry (C:N:P), total RNA, cell size, and growth rate. We found that the main gradient in elemental content and RNA largely was related to nutrient regime and the resulting differences in growth rate and degree of P-limitation, and observed reduced cell volume-specific content of P and RNA (but also N and C in most cases) and higher N:P and C:P in the slow growing −P cultures compared to the fast growing +P cultures. P-limited cells also tended to be larger than nutrient replete cells. Contrary to other recent studies, we found lower N:P and C:P ratios at high temperature. Overall, elemental content and RNA increased with temperature, especially in the nutrient replete cultures. Notably, however, temperature had a weaker–and in some cases a negative–effect on elemental content and RNA under P-limitation. This interaction indicates that the effect of temperature on cellular composition may differ between nutrient replete and nutrient limited conditions, where cellular uptake and storage of excess nutrients may overshadow changes in resource allocation among the non-storage fractions of biomass (e.g. P-rich ribosomes and N-rich proteins). Cell size decreased at high temperature, which is in accordance with general observations.
Numerical Studies of Influencing Factors on the Homogeneity of the Powder Mixture during the Powder Spreading Process of Powder Bed Fusion–Laser Beam/Metal
Authors: Deng Yuanbin , Sang Ziping , Zhang Jiali , Radtke Felix , Becker Louis , Herzog Simone , Weber Sebastian , Broeckmann Christoph
Published: October 2024

Recent studies have focused on the alloying of nitrogen (N) in high‐alloy stainless steels by powder bed fusion–laser beam/metal (PBF‐LB/M). However, N‐induced pore formation remains a challenge. To overcome this, a combined PBF‐LB/M and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) process is developed. AISI 304L stainless steel powder was mixed with silicon nitride (Si3N4) powder and processed by PBF‐LB/M, allowing partial retention of Si3N4. This helps to maintain sufficient N content while reducing pore formation. The microstructure is then homogenised by HIP. A major challenge of this process is to maintain the homogeneity of the deposited powder mixture on the powder bed to ensure a consistent N content in the final products. This study combines experimental and numerical methods to address this issue: scanning electron microscopy is used to characterize the microstructure and map the local N content, while various numerical studies based on the discrete element method are carried out to investigate the effects of layer thickness, substrate surface roughness, and powder properties on the intermediate product. The numerical approach effectively predicts the N content distribution and homogeneity on the powder bed. The models are validated with experimental data and optimal process conditions for PBF‐LB/M are identified.
Strategy and Advancement in Hybrid Hydrogel and Their Applications: Recent Progress and Trends
Authors: Choudhary Arpita , Sharma Anirudh , Singh Abhinav , Han Sung Soo , Sood Ankur
Published: October 2024

Advancements in polymers have made significant contribution in diverse application‐oriented fields. The multidisciplinary application of polymers generates a range of strategies, which is applicable in a wide range of biomedicines. Polymeric compounds such as hydrogels have been explored globally as a potent biomaterial that can furnish essential attributes due to their three‐dimensional (3D) soft and highly hydrophilic polymeric network. These hydrogels have been used extensively in various applications due to their biocompatible, biodegradable, and biosorption nature. However, they have some limitations, owing to their soft nature, low mechanical properties, and unsatisfactory degradation profile. Therefore, there is a need to develop novel, stronger, and more durable hybrid hydrogels with enhanced biocompatible and multifunctional properties. The current review gives a broad spectrum of hybrid hydrogels with its importance and significance. Further, the review highlights the strategies of generation of hybrid hydrogels reinforced with nanomaterials, biomaterials, and nanobiocomposites along with their advantages and disadvantages. The review also features various applications of these hybrid hydrogels in the field of biomedicines, photocatalysis, agriculture, and food industry over the last 5 years. This review will give a comprehensive overview to researchers working in the field of hybrid hydrogels development.
Hierarchically Structured CuNiP/CuOx‐VP Nanoarrays Construction by Heteroatom Doping Boosting Glycerol Valorization at Industrial‐Level Current Density
Authors: Zheng Yue , Kang Zihu , Li Haotong , Song Xiangfei , Zhang Wanqi , Wang Gengchen , Tao Xia
Published: October 2024

Electrocatalytic valorization of glycerol to formate is considered to be a promising sustainable approach; however, it holds great challenges to increase catalyst activity and deliver market‐demanded chemicals with high Faradaic efficiency (FE) and selectivity under industrial‐level current density. Herein, hierarchically structured phosphorus vacancy‐enriched nickel phosphide porous nanoarrays by copper doping, denoted as CuNiP/CuOx‐VP, are constructed via a facile glycol‐mediated solvothermal approach. The CuNiP/CuOx‐VP yields an industry‐level 1 A cm−2 at the ultralow potential of 1.75 V, while showing notable FE (96.94%) and selectivity (96.76%) to formate over a wide range of potentials. Impressively, a two‐electrode electrolyzer linked to H2 evolution possesses exceptional activity that merely requires a cell voltage of 1.45 V to deliver 40 mA cm−2, exhibiting a high FE (97.53%) for formate production and surpassing the vast majority of previously reported precious metal electrocatalysts. Microscopic and electrochemical characterizations manifest that the CuNiP/CuOx‐VP composed of porous NiP nanosheets attached to aggregated CuOx particles featuring superaerophobic‐hydrophilic morphology enables increased active sites, favorable electronic redistribution, and thus boosted electrocatalytic performance. This study demonstrates an effective nanoarrays electrode for catalyst discovery, going from facile catalyst synthesis to structure‐activity relationship and subsequently developing more highly active electrocatalysts for energy‐saving coproduction of valuable chemicals.
High Self‐Supporting Chitosan‐Based Hydrogel Ink for In Situ 3D Printed Diabetic Wound Dressing
Authors: Li Shanshan , Xu Yidi , Zheng Lu , Fan Chaoran , Luo Fangji , Zou Yuqing , Li Xiaoyun , Zha Zhen‐Gang , Zhang Huan‐Tian , Wang Xiaoying
Published: October 2024

Customizable 3D‐printed biopolymer hydrogels, highly sought after for diabetic wound management, face challenges in clinical application due to weak physical crosslinking within their constituent inks. In this study, a novel chitosan‐based hydrogel ink with a dense yet reversible physical crosslinking network is subtly designed for the rapid in situ fabrication of personalized diabetic wound dressing. This robust network is established through multiple electrostatic and hydrogen bonding interactions between unique carboxymethyl chitosan and nanoclay, further reinforced by the introduction of amide bonds, which act as double hydrogen bond donors/acceptors. Benefiting from this network, the ink with low nanoclay content exhibits remarkable self‐supporting properties, enabling high‐fidelity, large‐scale, and complex 3D printability without additional processing, while substantially retaining its inherent rheological properties after autoclave sterilization and the incorporation of active components. Given these advantages, this multifunctional 3D printable hydrogel can be rapidly in situ constructed on diabetic wounds. Simultaneously, the 3D‐printed hydrogel demonstrates biodegradability, anti‐swelling, and appropriate mechanical properties, along with remarkable in vitro antibacterial and pro‐angiogenic capabilities, leading to effective diabetic wound healing in vivo. This work offers a new strategy for creating highly self‐supporting biopolymer inks and paves the way for developing advanced personalized wound dressings.
Passivation of Deep‐Level Defects through Chemical Environment Regulation for Efficient CZTSSe Solar Cells Based on Active Selenium Adsorption–Desorption Process
Authors: Xie Tianliang , Han Litao , Chu Liangli , Han Mingtao , Jian Yue , Chi JinJin , Zhong Xinyi , Liu Tong , Kou Dongxing , Zhou Wenhui , Zhou Zhengji , Yuan Shengjie , Meng Yuena , Qi Yafang , Wu Sixin
Published: October 2024

Insufficient selenization and uneven distribution of elements caused by the poor diffusion and reaction activity of selenium clusters is one of the main issues limiting the efficiency of Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) solar cells. Here, this work designs a simple and feasible strategy to improve the activity of selenium (Se) by implementing high‐temperature treatment on graphite boxes loaded with Se pellets. The rapid adsorption/desorption characteristics of graphite on active gaseous small‐molecule selenium have successfully introduced hyperactive Se4, Se3, and Se2 into the selenization process. The results indicate that the adsorbed non‐toxic gaseous active Se3 and Se4 can quickly and uniformly diffuse into the precursor film at low temperatures, thereby inducing nucleation and grain growth at both surface and back interface simultaneously, which inhibits the upward migration and aggregation of cations, especially Cu, and promotes the homogenization of elements. The overall relatively Cu‐poor chemical environment suppresses the formation of CuZn defects and [2CuZn+SnZn] defect clusters, and also promotes the generation of favorable VCu. The band tail states and non‐radiative recombination are then optimized. Finally, the CZTSSe solar cells achieve a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 14.5%, with VOC/VOCSQ of 67% being one of the highest in the literature.
Physicochemical Properties of Water in Contact with Nanobubbles Generated by CO2‐Hydrate Dissociation: An Investigation from Experiment and Molecular‐Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Naeiji Parisa , Pan Mengdi , English Niall J.
Published: October 2024

The study investigates CO2‐nanobubbles (NBs) generated from gas‐hydrate dissociation, exploring their impact on the physicochemical properties of liquid water. Raman spectroscopy evidenced a slight increase in the Raman‐band intensity, suggesting enhanced total hydration‐layer water‐dipole moment and polarity without affecting water molecule structuring. Furthermore, an overall decreasing trend for the zeta potential of NB solution can be observed due to the strong electron affinity on the surface of CO2 bulk NBs, probably caused by a negative charge accumulation. These findings are in good qualitative accord with molecular‐dynamics (MD) simulation results, wherein water can induce a small dipole moment of about 0.16 D for CO2 NBs, thereby increasing the polarity of the system. Due to the interaction between water molecules, the Coulombic or electrostatic forces increase in the presence of NBs compared to pure water, which can reflect the increase in the dipole moment of water molecules in the presence of NBs. The presence of NBs strengthens the local hydrogen‐bond network, leading to higher‐frequency vibrations. Additionally, NBs amplify the intrinsic electric field of the aqueous solution, causing the gas‐water interface to exhibit negatively charged characteristics, dependent on NB size. Molecular simulations agree qualitatively with experiments, emphasizing their utility in studying NB evolution in water.
Ion‐Transport Kinetics and Interface Stability Augmentation of Zinc Anodes Based on Fluorinated Covalent Organic Framework Thin Films
Authors: Lei Da , Shang Wenzhe , Cheng Lyuyang , Poonam  , Kaiser Waldemar , Banerjee Pritam , Tu Suo , Henrotte Olivier , Zhang Jinsheng , Gagliardi Alessio , Jinschek Joerg , Cortés Emiliano , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter , Bandarenka Aliaksandr S. , Hussain Mian Zahid , Fischer Roland A.
Published: October 2024

Zinc (Zn) emerges as an ideal anode for aqueous‐based energy storage devices because of its safety, non‐toxicity, and cost‐effectiveness. However, the reversibility of zinc anodes is constrained by unchecked dendrite proliferation and parasitic side reactions. To minimize these adverse effects, a highly oriented, crystalline 2D porous fluorinated covalent organic framework (denoted as TpBD‐2F) thin film is in situ synthesized on the Zn anode as a protective layer. The zincophilic and hydrophobic TpBD‐2F provides numerous 1D fluorinated nanochannels, which facilitate the hopping/transfer of Zn2+ and repel H2O infiltration, thus regulating Zn2+ flux and inhibiting interfacial corrosion. The resulting TpBD‐2F protective film enabled stable plating/stripping in symmetric cells for over 1200 h at 2 mA cm−2. Furthermore, assembled full cells (Zn‐ion capacitors) deliver an ultra‐long cycling life of over 100 000 cycles at a current density of 5 A g−1, outperforming nearly all reported porous crystalline materials.
Novel Ag(I)‐based 1,2,4‐Oxadiazole Complexes: Synthesis, X‐Ray Crystal Structure, and Biological Evaluation as Anticancer Candidates
Authors: Ayoup Mohammed Salah , Alashhab Rabia E. , Soliman Saied M. , Abdel‐Hamid Hamida , Cordes David B. , McKay Aidan P. , Ghareeb Doaa A. , Masoud Aliaa , Kassab Asmaa E. , Abd Al Moaty Mohamed N.
Published: October 2024

The 3,5‐diaryl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazole scaffolds 2 and 3 were synthesized and used as ligands to obtain three novel Ag(I) complexes 4–6. The structure of the Ag(I) complexes 4–6 has been confirmed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. Complex 4 has the dinuclear formula [Ag(2)(NO3)]2. 5 and 6 are monomeric complexes having the formula [Ag(3)2(NO3)] and [Ag(3)2]ClO4, respectively. In vitro, trypsin, ALDH2, and iNOS inhibition activities were assessed for the free ligands and their Ag(I) complexes. Interestingly, Ag(I) complexes 4–6 revealed more prominent trypsin inhibitory activity than the ligands 2 and 3. The oxadiazole derivative 3 and its Ag(I) complex (6) showed significant ALDH2 inhibition (45% and 55%, respectively). Complex 6 (IC50 = 35.61 μM) surpassed its 1,2,4‐oxadiazole ligand 3 (IC50 = 88 μM) and evidenced the most prominent ALDH2 inhibitory activity. The oxadiazole derivative 3 and its corresponding Ag(I) complexes 5 and 6 showed significant iNOS inhibition (77.77%, 84.12%, and 84.15%, respectively). With IC50 values of 18.13, 18.15, and 13.96 μM, respectively, complex 6 is the most potent against iNOS, surpassing the reference standard.
Teaching delay tolerance to a child with Smith‐Magenis syndrome in a classroom using a simplified approach
Authors: DeFreitas Mariah , Womack Tyler , Choy Tricia , Ricciardi Joseph N.
Published: October 2024

Delay tolerance training is used to teach children to accept delayed access to a requested item or event without exhibiting challenging behaviors. It is used during schedule thinning following acquisition of a functional communication response (FCR) or trained on its own in a skills‐based treatment package. Typically, delay tolerance training occurs in a clinic or hospital, and rarely in a school classroom. Most often delay tolerance training has been used with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study integrated findings from previous research on delay tolerance training to evaluate training in a classroom, with a child with Smith‐Magenis syndrome, using a simplified protocol. The training resulted in acquisition of delay tolerance for 5 min from a baseline of 32 s (average). The participant's teachers were then trained to use similar strategies throughout the school day and quickly acquired and applied the procedure with reported benefits.
A New Species of Crepidium (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Malaxideae): From Assam, North East India
Authors: Gogoi Khyanjeet , Sarma Jintu
Published: October 2024

A new species of the tribe Malaxideae (Orchidaceae), Crepidium assamicum, is described and illustrated here as new species from Assam, North East India. The new taxon is superficially similar to Crepidium purpureum but differs in its habitat, plant size, long floral bract, very densely flowered inflorescences, leaf number, larger petiole size, both winged throughout and flower color. This species is confined to grow in open grassland near river bank of Dibru‐Soikhowa, Dibrugarh district of Assam, in a huge population comprising 500–600 individuals. The threat status of this new species is provisionally assessed here as “Threatened” following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria version 16 (2024).
Improving transitional care after acute myocardial infarction: A scoping review
Authors: Homem Filipa , Reveles Anaísa , Amaral António , Coutinho Verónica , Gonçalves Lino
Published: October 2024

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, posing a significant challenge to healthcare systems worldwide. Transitional care interventions, which ensure coordination and continuity of care as patients move between different levels of healthcare, have been shown to reduce unnecessary healthcare utilization and improve patient outcomes. While much attention has been given to transitional care in heart failure, this review aims to map the interventions implemented for patients following an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology, with literature searches performed in the Cochrane, CINAHL, MEDLINE, JBI, and SciELO databases, focusing on publications from 2013 onwards in both Portuguese and English. Seventy‐five studies were included, with most combining multiple interventions that contributed to improved cardiovascular health outcomes, including increased adherence to healthy lifestyle behaviors, enhanced medication compliance, and better healthcare self‐management. These interventions were effective in reducing cardiovascular‐related Emergency Department visits, unplanned 30‐day readmissions, and mortality following a first‐time myocardial infarction. Key strategies identified included discharge planning, digital health solutions, outpatient care, and healthcare coordination. The findings of this review underscore the need for developing methodologies that enhance the transition of care from hospital to primary care following an AMI. There is an urgent need to design and implement new healthcare programs that integrate discharge interventions, digital health, outpatient care, and healthcare coordination to ensure continuity of care and optimize patient outcomes post‐discharge.
New onset of Graves' disease after controlled ovarian stimulation: A case report and brief literature review
Authors: Vassallo Alberto , Di Filippo Luigi , Frara Stefano , Bertoli Massimo , Pagani Mauro , Presciuttini Barbara
Published: October 2024

De novo onset of Graves' disease (GD) after controlled ovarian stimulation (OS) is exceptional. Only one case of progression to GD after OS in a patient with pre‐existing subclinical hyperthyroidism has been reported. We describe the case of a patient with neither previous thyroid disorders nor autoimmunity who developed GD after OS for primary infertility. A 40‐year‐old woman with primary infertility underwent four cycles of OS. Her thyroid function performed before the last cycle was unremarkable (thyroid stimulating hormone [TSH] 1.9 mU/L, fT4 1.3 ng/dL, fT3 2.4 pg/mL), and thyroid autoimmunity was negative (anti‐thyroperoxidase antibodies and anti‐thyroglobuline antibodies). Six weeks after the last cycle she developed overt thyrotoxicosis (TSH < 0.005 mU/L, fT4 4.79 ng/dL, fT3 15.6 pg/mL) with anti‐thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TRAb) positivity (9.2 IU/L). She was diagnosed with GD and anti‐thyroid therapy was instituted. After 1 year of treatment, thyroid function was still suboptimal (TSH 0.2 mU/L, fT4 1.04 ng/dL, fT3 2.2 pg/mL), and TRAb titer still elevated (8.75 IU/L). Despite her desire to achieve pregnancy, a further cycle of OS was postponed until complete remission of thyroid dysfunction and withdrawal of anti‐thyroid therapy. Although TSH assay after OS is not recommended in euthyroid women without autoimmunity, in the presence of hyperthyroid symptoms throughout OS it is advisable to evaluate thyroid function and TRAb. It is advisable to carefully evaluate the course of GD before proceeding with further courses of OS that could lead to its exacerbation or recurrence. In cases where a strong desire for pregnancy persists, thyroidectomy may be proposed.
Brief online suicide risk assessment of adults does not affect state mood, even in the context of elevated suicidality self‐stigma, suicidal ideation and psychological distress
Authors: Winestone Ben C. , Melvin Glenn A. , Tatnell Ruth , Hallford David J.
Published: October 2024

The current study aimed to assess whether online suicide risk assessment affects state mood and is the first to examine if suicide‐related self‐stigma or coping related to suicidal ideation are predictors of mood change. The Australian participants (N = 661, Mage = 34.9, SD = 12.3, 57.1% female), recruited through a crowd‐sourcing platform, completed a visual analogue mood measure before and after the Suicidal Ideation Attributes Scale (SIDAS), an assessment tool. Followed by a modified version of the Internalised Stigma Scale, the Brief COPE and DASS‐21. State mood did not change from pre‐ to post‐suicide risk assessment in the overall sample, t(662) = −.16, p = .868, d = −.01. Contrary to hypotheses, neither self‐stigma nor coping were related to mood change following exposure to the SIDAS. The multiple regression model was not significant, F(9,643) = 1.16, p = .31., nor was any single predictor including gender, current Suicide risk β = −.04, t = −.80 or psychological distress β = −.09, t = −1.76, p = .08. These findings suggest that online exposure to a suicide risk tool is unlikely to be iatrogenic in relation to state mood, even in the context of elevated self‐stigma, suicidal ideation and psychological distress.
Evaluation of Minimum‐to‐Severe Global and Macrovesicular Steatosis in Human Liver Specimens: A Portable Ambient Light‐Compatible Spectroscopic Probe
Authors: Guo Hao , Stueck Ashley E. , Doppenberg Jason B. , Chae Yun Suk , Tikhomirov Alexey B. , Zeng Haishan , Engelse Marten A. , Gala‐Lopez Boris L. , Mahadevan‐Jansen Anita , Alwayn Ian P. J. , Locke Andrea K. , Hewitt Kevin C.
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Hepatic steatosis (HS), particularly macrovesicular steatosis (MaS), influences transplant outcomes. Accurate assessment of MaS is crucial for graft selection. While traditional assessment methods have limitations, non‐invasive spectroscopic techniques like Raman and reflectance spectroscopy offer promise. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a portable ambient light‐compatible spectroscopic system in assessing global HS and MaS in human liver specimens.

Methods

A two‐stage approach was employed on thawed snap‐frozen human liver specimens under ambient room light: biochemical validation involving a comparison of fat content from Raman and reflectance intensities with triglyceride (TG) quantifications and histopathological validation, contrasting Raman‐derived fat content with evaluations by an expert pathologist and a “Positive Pixel Count” algorithm. Raman and reflectance intensities were combined to discern significant (≥ 10%) discrepancies in global HS and MaS.

Results

The initial set of 16 specimens showed a positive correlation between Raman and reflectance‐derived fat content and TG quantifications. The Raman system effectively differentiated minimum‐to‐severe global and macrovesicular steatosis in the subsequent 66 specimens. A dual‐variable prediction algorithm was developed, effectively classifying significant discrepancies (> 10%) between algorithm‐estimated global HS and pathologist‐estimated MaS.

Conclusion

Our study established the viability and reliability of a portable spectroscopic system for non‐invasive HS and MaS assessment in human liver specimens. The compatibility with ambient light conditions and the ability to address limitations of previous methods marks a significant advancement in this field. By offering promising differentiation between global HS and MaS, our system introduces an innovative approach to real‐time and quantitative donor HS assessments. The proposed method holds the promise of refining donor liver assessment during liver recovery and ultimately enhancing transplantation outcomes.
Design, Synthesis of Novel Pyrimidine Derivatives Containing Alkenyl Moieties With Herbicidal Activities
Authors: Zhang Wenliang , Chen Jingjing , Du Xiaohua
Published: October 2024

To identify lead compounds with potent herbicidal activity, a range of pyrimidine derivatives containing alkenyl groups were designed, synthesized, and characterized using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). The synthetic pathways for producing these compounds involved substitution reactions, cyclization, hydrolysis, and other processes. The starting materials for each reaction step were readily accessible, facilitating synthesis. The purification of the final product was straightforward, yielding approximately 80%, under mild reaction conditions. Moreover, a pot culture experiment was employed to assess the herbicidal efficacy of the aforementioned compounds. Compounds 6a, 6b, 6h, and 6j demonstrated a significant inhibition against Amaranthus retroflexus, comparable to fomesafen at 150 g a.i./hm2. This suggests that these compounds hold promise as potential lead structures for herbicidal agents. The docking results indicated that the binding energies of compound 6a with protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) were both negative and spontaneous, with numerous interaction active sites. Thus, it is speculated that compound 6a is a PPO inhibitor.
Men and women demonstrate comparable rates of failures and reoperations following primary osteochondral allograft transplantation of the knee, but women undergo reoperation sooner
Authors: Yazdi Allen A. , Weissman Alexander C. , Wagner Kyle R. , Muth Sarah A. , Rubin Jared M. , Gilat Ron , Cole Brian J.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To compare the differences between men and women who receive primary osteochondral allograft transplantation of the knee with regard to preoperative disease presentation, failures and reoperations.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients ≥18 years old who underwent primary osteochondral allograft transplantation between 2002 and 2020 by a single surgeon with a minimum of 2‐year follow‐up was performed. Demographic, preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative data were collected for all included patients. Patients were then assigned to two groups, either male or female, based on their reported sex. Statistical analysis was performed to assess sex‐related differences in baseline characteristics, comparative survival analysis for determining survival probabilities, and regression analysis for determining variables associated with subsequent reoperation or failure.

Results

Among the 437 patients that were identified, 337 patients (77.1% follow‐up, 161 men, 176 women) with a minimum of 2‐year follow‐up were included in our study. The mean age of included patients was 31.3 ± 9.9 years (range, 18.0–55.9), with a BMI of 26.7 ± 4.4 (range, 19.0–39.0) and a mean follow‐up of 5.6 ± 2.6 years (range, 2.0–16.3). Male patients had significantly higher body mass index (BMI) (p ≤ 0.01), were more likely to have lesions on the medial femoral condyle (p = 0.041), and had larger lesions at the medial femoral condyle (p ≤ 0.01) and lateral femoral condyle (p ≤ 0.01). 36.8% of patients experienced subsequent reoperation (59 male, 65 female). Mean time to reoperation was 3.5 ± 2.8 years (range, 0.4–16.3 years) in males and 2.1 ± 1.9 years (range, 0.1–13.5 years) in females. No significant difference was found between the two groups with regard to reoperation rates (n.s.) or survivability free from reoperation (n.s.), but females were found to undergo reoperation sooner (p = 0.028). Sixty‐three (18.7%) patients experienced subsequent graft failure (36 male, 27 female). No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of failure rates, time to failure, survivability free from failure, or mode of failure (n.s. for all).

Conclusions

Despite several differences in baseline demographics and intraoperative variables, no significant differences were found between men and women receiving primary osteochondral allograft transplantation of the knee with regard to failure or reoperation, with the exception that women underwent reoperation sooner.

Study Design

Retrospective Comparative Cohort Study.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Penfluridol inhibits melanoma growth and metastasis through enhancing von Hippel‒Lindau tumor suppressor‐mediated cancerous inhibitor of protein phosphatase 2A (CIP2A) degradation
Authors: Xu Fuyan , Li Jiao , Ai Min , Zhang Tingting , Ming Yue , Li Cong , Pu Wenchen , Yang Yang , Li Zhang , Qi Yucheng , Xu Xiaomin , Sun Qingxiang , Yuan Zhu , Xia Yong , Peng Yong
Published: October 2024

Melanoma's high metastatic potential, especially to the brain, poses significant challenges to patient survival. The blood‒brain barrier (BBB) is a major obstacle to the effective treatment of melanoma brain metastases. We screened antipsychotic drugs capable of crossing the BBB and identified penfluridol (PF) as the most active candidate. PF reduced melanoma cell viability and induced apoptosis. In animal models, PF effectively inhibited melanoma growth and metastasis to the lung and brain. Using immunoprecipitation combined with high‐resolution mass spectrometry, and other techniques such as drug affinity responsive target stability, we identified CIP2A as a direct binding protein of PF. CIP2A is highly expressed in melanoma and its metastases, and is linked to poor prognosis. PF can restore Protein Phosphatase 2A activity by promoting CIP2A degradation, thereby inhibiting several key oncogenic pathways, including AKT and c‐Myc. Additionally, von Hippel‒Lindau (VHL) is the endogenous E3 ligase for CIP2A, and PF enhances the interaction between VHL and CIP2A, promoting the ubiquitin‒proteasome degradation of CIP2A, thereby inhibiting melanoma growth and metastasis. Overall, this study not only suggests PF's potential in treating melanoma and its brain metastases but also highlights CIP2A degradation as a therapeutic strategy for melanoma.