bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of COVID-19 and Shelter in Place on Volume and Type of Traumatic Injuries
Authors: Murrett James , Fu Emily , Maher Zoe , Bae Crystal , Satz Wayne , Schreyer Kraftin
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Very little is known about the effects of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and its associated social distancing practices on trauma presentations to the emergency department (ED). This study aims to assess the impact of a city-wide stay at home order on the volume, type, and outcomes of traumatic injuries at urban EDs.

Methods: The study was a retrospective chart review of all patients who presented to the ED of an urban Level I Trauma Center and its urban community affiliate in the time period during the 30 days before the institution of city-wide shelter-in-place (preSIP) order and 60 days after the shelter-in-place (SIP) order and the date-matched time periods in the preceding year. Volume and mechanism of traumatic injuries were compared using paired T-tests.

Results: There was a significant decrease in overall ED volume. The volume of certain blunt trauma presentations (motor vehicle collisions) during the first 60 days of SIP compared to the same period from the year prior also significantly decreased. Importantly, the volume of penetrating injuries, including gunshot wounds and stab wounds, did not differ for the preSIP and SIP periods when compared to the prior year. The mortality of traumatic injuries was also unchanged during the SIP comparison period.

Conclusion: While there were significant decreases in visits to the ED and overall trauma volume, penetrating trauma, including gun violence, and other severe traumatic injuries remain a public health crisis that affects urban communities despite social distancing recommendations enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Studují spolu
Authors: Brücknerová Karla
Published: September 2021

The book presents peer learning among part-time students as an essential part of their higher education experience. It summarizes the research that indicates that students' achievement, well-being, and study engagement are related to peer learning. Possibilities for supporting peer learning are discussed. Qualitative research of peer learning among part-time students studying for educational degrees offers descriptions of contextual influences and peer learning situations. Based on patterns of occurrence of peer learning situations, three types of peer learning among part-time students are defined: studying beside peers, studying together with peers, and studying due to peers. Each type brings specific benefits and requires distinct support.
Libertad religiosa y libertad del acto de fe: el arbitraje de Constantino en los primeros conflictos cristianos de su tiempo (311-324)
Authors: Alba López Almudena
Published: September 2021

Desde el establecimiento del llamado «Edicto de Milán» en 313, el emperador Constantino pone en práctica un modelo de política religiosa basado en la tolerancia en la que su intervención, personal o delegada, desempeña un papel esencial en su mantenimiento. Los numerosos conflictos religiosos y desavenencias doctrinales protagonizadas por diferentes grupos cristianos precipitan el fracaso de la tolerancia y obligan a buscar nuevas soluciones. El empeño en lograr un consenso doctrinal que no menoscabase las atribuciones del emperador en la gestión y en el arbitraje de los asuntos religiosos, así como la intervención del poder civil en ámbitos de tradicional jurisdicción eclesiástica planteará un enfrentamiento con una parte de la Iglesia que, fiel a los principios doctrinales emanados del concilio de Nicea y al reconocimiento exclusivo de la autoridad episcopal, no se mostrará sumisa ante la estrategia del emperador para lograr el deseado consenso en materia religiosa.
Las fórmulas epigráficas pius (in) suis et carus (in) suis ¿indicadores de dependencia personal?
Authors: Blanco Robles Fernando
Published: September 2021

En los recientes estudios de fórmulas epigráficas funerarias y la relación existente con los grupos sociales que las emplean, ha recibido especial interés la fórmula pius (in) suis. Siguiendo esta línea de trabajo, en el presente artículo incluimos también la fórmula carus (in) suis para ofrecer un panorama completo sobre el uso y función de estos epítetos en la epigrafía funeraria, así como aportar relevantes datos sobre su aplicación a determinados colectivos sociales, tanto por razones de estatus como por razones de edad. Así mismo, se tratará de determinar la procedencia de estas fórmulas y si pueden ser empleadas o no como marcadores de identificación estatutaria entre el colectivo de serviles.
El estatus dependiente del colono romano en los contratos de arrendamiento: análisis de las fuentes jurídicas
Authors: Perelman Fajardo Marcelo Emiliano
Published: September 2021

El presente trabajo se propone estudiar los comentarios de los juristas romanos sobre la institución de la locatio conductio en el período altoimperial con el objetivo de dilucidar la condición socioeconómica del arrendatario romano. Frente a la concepción usual que entiende a esta figura como un empresario autónomo e independiente, nuestro análisis pone de relevancia el carácter dependiente del colono en relación al propietario, la inseguridad jurídica en la que se encontraba y la función eminentemente laboral que desempeñaba en las grandes haciendas itálicas.
El uso de la imagen de niños y adolescentes en la numismática romana de época imperial. Algunos casos
Authors: Moro Ipola Milagros
Published: September 2021

Antes del comienzo del Principado, no parece haber interés o razón alguna para la representación de niños o adolescentes en la numismática romana. Hasta ese momento, la numismática, la escultura y la epigrafía habían servido más para recordar la gloria política y militar de los varones romanos que a las familias, mujeres o niños. Sin embargo, el cambio vendrá con el advenimiento de Octavio y la aparición de una institución, como la familia Imperial, que no había existido hasta ese momento. Con ello, llegó, también, la necesidad de justificar la presencia de una dinastía en el poder y de promocionar otra figura igualmente novedosa: el heredero. Es importante aclarar que en este estudio se tratan jóvenes reales, ya sean conocidos como anónimos. Por consiguiente, no van a formar parte de este trabajo las imágenes referidas a personajes mitológicos, deidades o alegorías.
Reseña de: Casado Rigalt, Daniel: Iberia colonizada. Revisión y síntesis de la protohistoria peninsular
Authors: Novillo López Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2021

Reseña de: Casado Rigalt, Daniel: Iberia colonizada. Revisión y síntesis de la protohistoria peninsular, Madrid, CEF, 400 pp., ISBN: 978-84-454-4103-9.
Reseña de: Fernández Vega, Pedro Ángel: La sombra de Aníbal: liderazgo político en la República clásica
Authors: Novillo López Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2021

Reseña de: Fernández Vega, Pedro Ángel: La sombra de Aníbal: liderazgo político en la República clásica, Madrid, Siglo XXI, 528 pp., ISBN: 978-84-323-1997-6.
Reseña de: Iriarte, Ana: Feminidades y convivencia política en la antigua Grecia
Authors: Arranz Santos Rebeca
Published: September 2021

Reseña de: Iriarte, Ana: Feminidades y convivencia política en la antigua Grecia. Madrid, Editorial Síntesis, 2020. ISBN: 978-84-1357-020-4
Од кибернетичке антропологије до трансхуманизма: к новој филозофији будућности
Authors: Смиљанић Дамир
Published: September 2021

У прилогу се разматрају могуће консеквенце што их за собом повлачи све већи утицај нових технологија не само на људско делање него и на саму људску природу. Тај тренд у хуманистичким наукама документује разматрање виртуeлности као нове епистемичке матрице и појава трансхуманизма одн. постхуманизма као изазова за биоетичко мишљење. Филозофија као метатеорија хуманистичких наука мора да посвети више пажње тим тенденцијама технолошког доба уместо да рециклира старе антрополошке и епистемолошке обрасце. Будућност тако постаје пројекат од енормног значаја за филозофију, а одређење промене слике света и човека нови задатак хуманистичких наука. У контексту разраде једне нове филозофије будућности акценат ће да буде на етаблирању кибернетичке парадигме у савременим наукама. Као последица те парадигме разматраће се тенденције у задњих педесетак година да се пројектује слика човека који унапређен од стране најновијих технологија може да компензује физичке и психичке недостатке своје природе. Трансхуманизам је нови поглед на свет који отворено пропагира потребу да се човек унапреди на тај начин и тиме преобрази своје биће. Остаје отворено да ли ће тај тренд бити позитиван или ће се он можда показати као израз неке нове идеологије.
Образовање подржано мобилним мултимедијалним уређајима: изазови у раду наставника у основним и средњим школама
Authors: Јоргић Драженко , Марић Татјана
Published: September 2021

Све присутније напредовање информационих и дигиталних технологија ути- че да образовање, глобално гледано, у свим својим облицима и на свим нивоима поприма једну нову димензију која се стално мијења и прилагођава савременим трендовима. Мобилно учење, односно образовање подржано мобилним технологијама, управо је један од таквих трендова који представља нове изазове за наставнике основних и средњих школа. Истраживање је обављено у два временска периода, и то у марту и априлу 2019. године. Циљ истраживања је био да се идентификују главни изазови у раду наставника основних и средњих школа поводом већ присутног формалног и информалног образовања подржаног мобилним мултимедијалним уређајима. Примијењен је сервеј (survey) истраживачки метод, а од техника интервју, анкетирање и процјењивање. Узорак истраживања су чинила 123 наставника из три основне (63) и двије средње школе (60). Између осталог, идентификовали смо неколико битних изазова за ову популацију наставника: негативни ставови наставника према актуелном коришћењу мобилних телефона у настави, додатно образовање, кооперативно коришћење мобилних телефона са ученицима, трагање за електронским уџбеницима доступним и на мобилним телефонима, подизање нивоа контроле и увођење јасних правила у функцији смањења злоупотребе мобилних телефона у учионици; коришћење видео-анимација, телевизијских канала и видео-игрица у настави путем мобилних телефона, и слични изазови.
Analysis of Parameters for Vehicles M2 and M3 Category – Case Study Republic of Croatia
Authors:   University of Zagreb, Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences, Jurak Julijan
Published: September 2021

Vehicles category can be separated into two main categories, M and N category. M categories represent motor vehicles which are used for passenger transport, and N category is used for freight transport. This paper will present one sub-category of M category (M2 and M3 category). M2 and M3 categories are motor vehicles which have more than 8 passenger seats (without seat for driver), also known as buses. Aim of paper is detect what parameters of buses influence on different variables, mainly considering ages and number of vehicles in Croatia and other countries. The paper consists of introduction, overview of vehicles category in the Republic of Croatia regarding to age, discussion, and conclusion.
CAFE regulations and the overview of the passenger car market within the European Union
Authors:   Gašparić Grupa, Međurečan Luka , Sikirić Matija ,   University of Zagreb, Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences
Published: September 2021

Vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE) currently represent the most prevalent form of road transport. Although level of emission per vehicle have drastically decreased, their emissions have significant impacts on the environment and health. The emergence of vehicles powered by more environmentally friendly systems has resulted in a change in perceptions, as they result in a reduction in pollution and other negative impacts of the transport system. It is for this reason that the goal has been set, to reduce the market for vehicles with only internal combustion and focus on encouraging the purchase of more sustainable options. The aim of this paper is to review the regulations in the field of passenger car markets in the European Union, and to establish historical trends, as well as to identify goals for future market development.
Generating adversarial examples without specifying a target model
Authors: Yang Gaoming , Li Mingwei , Fang Xianjing , Zhang Ji , Liang Xingzhu
Published: September 2021

Adversarial examples are regarded as a security threat to deep learning models, and there are many ways to generate them. However, most existing methods require the query authority of the target during their work. In a more practical situation, the attacker will be easily detected because of too many queries, and this problem is especially obvious under the black-box setting. To solve the problem, we propose the Attack Without a Target Model (AWTM). Our algorithm does not specify any target model in generating adversarial examples, so it does not need to query the target. Experimental results show that it achieved a maximum attack success rate of 81.78% in the MNIST data set and 87.99% in the CIFAR-10 data set. In addition, it has a low time cost because it is a GAN-based method.
Substrate type and palaeodepth do not affect the Middle Jurassic taxonomic diversity of crinoids
Authors: Salamon Mariusz A. , Feldman-Olszewska Anna , Jain Sreepat , Ferré Bruno B.M. , Paszcza Karolina , Płachno Bartosz J.
Published: September 2021

Crinoids are largely considered as good indicators for determining environmental conditions. They are robust proxies for inferring changes in salinity and sedimentation rate and for inferring substrate type. Some crinoid groups (e.g., certain comatulids, cyrtocrinids, millericrinids) have a depth preference, thus, making them useful for palaeodepth estimation. The hypotheses that crinoid distribution is substrate-dependent (rock type) or palaeodepth-dependent is tested here based on (a) archival Bathonian-Callovian (Middle Jurassic) crinoid occurrences from Poland and (b) newer finds from five boreholes from eastern Poland. Qualitative data suggests that isocrinids and cyclocrinids occur in both carbonate and siliciclastic rocks. The cyrtocrinids and roveacrinids occur within carbonate rocks, whereas the comatulids are exclusive to siliciclastics. In terms of palaeodepth, most crinoid groups dominate in shallow environments with the sole exception of cyrtocrinids, that are ubiquitous and occur in both shallow (near shore and shallow marine) and slightly deeper (deeper sublittoral to open shelf) settings. The occurrences of the cosmopolitan taxa, Chariocrinus andreae and Balanocrinus subteres (isocrinids), is independent of both substrate type and palaeodepth. Quantitative analyses (Analysis Of Variance; ANOVA) based on substrate type, i.e., substrate-dependency (claystones, sandstones and limestones), and palaeodepth i.e., palaeodepth-dependency (near shore, shallow-marine, mid-ramp and offshore), corroborate qualitative results. Statistical analysis suggest that the distribution of crinoids shows a strong substrate-dependency but not for palaeodepth, although very weak significance (low p value) is noted for near shore and shallow marine settings and crinoid distribution.
Assembling Blockchain and IoT for Smart Food-Supply Chain
Authors: Mukherjee Utsab , Dutta Shawni , Bandyopadhyay Samir Kumar
Published: September 2021

Globalization and extreme competition in the market have made the food supply chain more complex than before.  To address the complexities in the food supply chain, blockchain has become more evident than the traditional ways. Use of blockchain technologies can ensure the efficiency, transparency and reliability of the food supply chain starting from the farms to forks. This study focuses on the applicability of blockchain systems to the agriculture field and provides comparative analysis among the existing methodologies that are dedicated to uplift the security, effectiveness and reliability of blockchain based food supply chains. This research has also proposed a novel model that couples blockchain and IoT based sensor modules, which can be applicable in real-life scenarios. The proposed method essentially follows a multi-layer architecture where each layer is presented by means of a blockchain technology. Each layer is fed by the ambient conditions which may impact better quality of crops. The IoT module will ensure better farming as well as the blockchain system will ensure the quality of the end product. If the packaged food degrades in quality, the reason behind the degradation can be located by the model presented in this paper. The presented framework may reach promising efficiency in practical life but the framework implementation cost may create a burden for the investors.
Narrow Market Business Level Strategies and Performance of Micro and Small Enterprises: A Case of Salons and Beauty Spas in Nairobi County, Kenya
Authors: Karuga Mary Wanjiru , Gichunge Evangeline , Kirimi Eunice
Published: September 2021

Despite the fact that empirical research on performance and narrow market business level strategies have been widely conducted, there is no consensus on the effect of focused cost and focused differentiation on micro and small enterprises performance, necessitating this study to add to the body of knowledge. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of generic narrow marekt strategies on the performance of micro and small businesses, with a focus on salons and beauty spas in Nairobi, and more specifically to: determine the impact of focused cost leadership strategy and focused differentiation strategy on the performance of salons and beauty spas in Nairobi County The study employed a descriptive research design, with the 279 salons and beauty spas in Nairobi County serving as the study's target population and a sample size of 165 participants obtained. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data, which was analysed quantitatively. The study concludes that at 5% level of significance; focused cost strategy has positive significantly moderate influence on performance of micro and small enterprises ,and focused differentiation strategy has moderate positive significant effect on performance of micro and small enterprises. The study recommends that micro and small enterprises should sustain expertise and ensures creativity as well as continuous improvement and devise mechanisms for crafting competitive affordable and attractive rate in addition to strategies for premium products in a niche narrow market.
Knowledge Management Factors and Development of Universities in Nigeria
Authors: Ajayi Modupe Olayinka , Adebambo Hameed Olusegun , Olusunmbola Oladayo Oladimeji
Published: September 2021

The study examined the factors affecting knowledge management and assessed the effect of its factors on the development of Universities in Ondo State, Nigeria. Sample consists of 359 respondents selected from three of the four universities in the study area using stratified random sampling. The study was conducted Ondo State. The study used both descriptive and regression analysis to arrive at its outcomes. Descriptive analysis revealed that job security (4.67), allocation of sufficient financial resources (4.51), senior management support and commitment (4.47), technological infrastructure (4.42), employee involvement (4.34), employee motivation (4.32) and friendly organizational culture (4.28) are the factors affecting knowledge management of the universities. In addition, regression analysis revealed that the factors examined in the study have positive link with the development of Universities in the study area.  The study recommends that University management should ensure that staff are guaranteed of the safety of their jobs as this will encourage them to feel comfortable in sharing their knowledge for the prospects of the university. Also, university management should ensure that staff have a safe, comfortable and friendly working environment and introduce means for motivating them such as giving incentives and additional payments for overtime.
Unifocal Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Presenting as Spontaneous Pneumothorax
Authors: Khurram Muhammad , Ambreen Saima , Shafiq Muhammad A. , Shahzad Muhammad Naveed , Zikria Faiqa , Shah Sarah Yousaf , Mumtaz Hassan
Published: September 2021

Langerhans cell is a rare disease affecting the lungs which has a 10 years survival chance having a prognosis of 85%. It is often linked with smoking. We discuss here the correct stepwise approach towards its diagnosis

Presenting a 28-year-old male smoker with a history of shortness of breath for 2 months which worsened progressively. His chest X-ray showed spontaneous pneumothorax with greater severity towards the right side. HRCT revealed multiple innumerable well-defined cystic lesions of variable sizes in bilateral lung fields, more prominent in upper lobes. A negative suction Pleur-evac was advised but the patient refused it and eventually pleurodesis using bleomycin was done to prevent pneumothorax in the future.

Pleurodesis can improve the symptoms of 88 percent of patients without causing any significant complications. Although pleurodesis does not have any effect on patients' survival, it has a positive impact on their lives continuously by enhancing the quality of life.
Community Awareness of Health Problems Associated with Gas Flaring and Programme to Mitigate
Authors: Obi Nkemdilim I. , Bwititi Phillip T. , Nwose Ezekiel U.
Published: September 2021

Background: Gas flaring, which occurs as part oil and gas operations results in release of gaseous toxins into the environment thus has a negative impact on the host communities including fauna, flora and humans. Previous studies focused mainly on the contribution of gas flaring to environmental pollution but not on human health. This article assesses disease prevention and treatment programs for ill-health associated with gas flaring.

Methodology: This research followed a mixed method approach of quantitative and qualitative analysis. Qualitative data comprised open-ended questions that sought the thematic views of community on how the companies liaise with either community and/or government, and what they would want the companies to provide to alleviate the health effects of gas flaring. Chi square and correlations were used on quantitative data to determine agreements and statistically significant differences of responses by participants from the questions that were set on Likert scales. Outcome: Chi-square showed statistically significant difference (X2 = z76, p < 0.017), when distribution of responses to Question-1 (Benefit of oil company to the community) and Question-4 (Oil companies awareness of potential health problems in the community) were compared. Therefore, the null hypothesis is rejected i.e. there is association between variables and awareness of prevalent ill-health due to gas flaring are responded to with preventive and treatment programs.

Conclusion: This notes that there is a relationship between awareness of health problems and intervention and also a lack of capacity among the communities’ low-mid social class to appropriately dialogue with the government for change.
A Review on In vitro Cell Culture Model for Bacterial Adhesion and Invasion: From Simple Monoculture to Co-Culture Human Intestinal Epithelium Model
Authors: Hasbullah Nur Intan , Mohamad Sharifah Aminah Syed , Iberahim Rashidah , Hasan Nor'Aishah , Ahmad Noorlis , Oon Low Kheng , Johari Nor Azfa , Manap Mohd Nuruddin Abd.
Published: September 2021

Aim: This paper reviews the different in vitro models of human intestinal epithelium that have been utilized for studying the adhesion and invasion properties.

Problem Statement: The cell adhesion and invasion are the key mechanisms of bacterial pathogenicity that determines their possible routes of transmission. Numerous investigations related to the adhesion and invasion ability of bacterial isolates have been reported on monoculture human intestinal cells. However, the use of monoculture cells has several major disadvantages, such as the inability to reproduce the complex structure that defines the intestine and the inability to accurately predict the mechanism of bacterial adhesion and invasion.

Approach: Co-culture models of human intestine have been developed as an alternative to improve the monoculture epithelial cell for adhesion and invasion studies, which provide more flexibility and overcome some of the limitations

Conclusion: With the use of diverse in vitro approach, it could provide thorough information on different ability of bacterial adhesion and invasion and it could help to clarify the intricacy of host-pathogen interactions that underpin bacterial pathogenesis.
Review on Transferosomes and Transferosomal Gels
Authors: Kumar P. Kranthi , Kumar R. Santosh
Published: September 2021

Transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS), which are self-administrable and non-invasive, can improve bioavailability and patient compliance by bypassing first-pass metabolism. Vesicular-based TDDS have attracted a lot of attention in recent years because they're designed for controlled, efficient, and targeted drug delivery. One of these delivery technologies, transferosomal-based formulations, has grown in popularity due to its ability to achieve all of the desired criteria and quality qualities. Transferosomes combine the characteristics of liposomes and niosomes because they contain both liposomes (phospholipids and cholesterols) and niosomes as components (nonionic surfactants; edge activators). as a result, they are referred to as the first generation of elastic liposomes. However transdermal drug delivery is difficult due to the presence of the skin's protective barrier, transferosomal drug delivery overcomes all obstacles due to its unique characteristics, such as its ultradeformable vesicular nature. The benefits, limitations, modes of penetration, formulations, production and assessment methodologies, and pharmaceutical uses of transferosomal drug delivery systems are discussed in this paper.

Conclusion: Transferosomes have several importance over other vesicular systems, including greater deformability, greater penetration power across skin, the ability to deliver systemic drugs, and higher stability.
Graphite/NiO/Ni Electrode for Electro-oxidation of the Remazol Black 5 Dye
Authors: Wiratini Ni Made , Triyono Triyono , Trisunaryanti Wega , Kuncaka Agus
Published: September 2021

Graphite/NiO/Ni electrode had been fabricated for the electro-oxidation of remazol black 5 dye. The electrode was synthesized by electrodeposition method. Electro-oxidation of 100 ppm remazol black 5 dye was carried out at various concentrations of NaCl, 0.025; 0.05; 0.1; 0.25; and 0.5 M, variations in electro-oxidation time were 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes, and pH variations were 4, 6, and 8. Cyclic voltammetry test revealed that graphite/NiO/Ni electrode had higher electrocatalytic capability compared to graphite electrode. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns showed the decreasing value of 2θ from 44.6° for Ni to 43.5° for NiO. Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) showed that NiO/Ni deposited on the graphite surface in the form of solid grains and cracks, FTIR showed that δ(Ni−O) bond appeared at 582–511 cm−1. The decolorization efficiency of remazol black 5 for graphite/NiO/Ni electrode was 100% for 45 minutes of the electro-oxidation process, while the decolorization efficiency of remazol black 5 for graphite electrode was 99.74% for 60 minutes of the electro-oxidation process. Copyright © 2021 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Autoimmune brainstem encephalitis: Clinical associations, outcomes, and proposed diagnostic criteria
Authors: Gilligan Michael , Thakolwiboon Smathorn , Orozco Emma , Banks Samantha , Flanagan Eoin P. , Lopez‐Chiriboga Sebastian , Tillema Jan‐Mendelt , Mills John R. , Pittock Sean J. , Valencia Sanchez Cristina , Zekeridou Anastasia , Dubey Divyanshu , McKeon Andrew
Published: December 2024

Objective

We describe neurologic phenotype, clinical associations, and outcomes in autoimmune brainstem encephalitis.

Methods

Medical records of neural‐IgG positive autoimmune brainstem encephalitis patients diagnosed at Mayo Clinic (January 1, 2006–December 31, 2022) were reviewed.

Results

Ninety‐eight patients (57 male) were included. Median age of symptom onset was 51 years (range, 8 months‐85 years). Frequent presenting features were ≥1: diplopia (80%), ataxia (78%), dysarthria (68%), vestibulocochlear symptoms (67%), dysphagia (61%), nausea/vomiting (42%), and facial weakness (32%). Altered mental status (11%) was uncommon. Neural antibodies detected were as follows: KLHL‐11 (26 patients), GAD65 (high titer, 12), ANNA‐1 (anti‐Hu, 8), ANNA‐2 (anti‐Ri, 8), Ma2 (7), IgLON‐5 (6), AQP4 (6), MOG (4), glycine receptor (4), GQ1B (4), PCA‐1 (anti‐Yo, 4), DPPX (2), neurochondrin (2), neurofilament (2), NMDA‐R (2), AGNA‐1 (SOX‐1, 1), ANNA‐3 (DACH1, 1), amphiphysin (1), CRMP‐5 (1), ITPR‐1 (1), PCA‐Tr (DNER, 1), and PDE10A (1). Cancer was identified in 55 patients: germ cell (23 patients; 3 extra‐testicular), ductal breast adenocarcinoma (8), small cell carcinoma (6, lung 4), adenocarcinomas (6), neuroendocrine carcinoma (3), hematologic (2), squamous cell (2), and other (7). Median modified Ranking score (mRS) at last follow‐up was 3 (range, 0–6). Factors associated with poor outcome included abnormal brain MRI, bulbar symptoms, and elevated CSF IgG index. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed faster progression to wheelchair in patients who were immunotherapy refractory and with elevated CSF IgG index. Diagnostic criteria for autoimmune brainstem encephalitis (definite and probable) are proposed.

Interpretation

Autoimmune brainstem encephalitis is a distinct clinical subphenotype of autoimmune encephalitis. Abnormal brain MRI, bulbar symptoms, and elevated CSF‐IgG index associate with poor outcome.
Alpha‐synuclein RT‐QuIC assay in gastroduodenal and skin biopsies of Parkinson disease patients
Authors: Emmi Aron , Mammana Angela , Sandre Michele , Baiardi Simone , Weis Luca , Rossi Marcello , Magliocchetti Franco , Savarino Edoardo , Russo Francesco Paolo , Porzionato Andrea , Carecchio Miryam , Campagnolo Marta , Antonini Angelo , Parchi Piero
Published: December 2024

In this study, we compared the value of pathological alpha‐synuclein (αSyn) seed amplification assay (SAA) in gastric and duodenal biopsies with skin biopsies in Parkinson disease (PD) patients with different disease duration. The accuracy of αSyn SAA was 87.7% in skin, 67.4% in duodenum, and 80.0% in gastric biopsies, with significantly higher sensitivity in advanced PD (skin: 81.8%; gastric: 88.9%; duodenal 58.8%). Misfolded αSyn was detected with higher sensitivity in advanced PD across all matrices, likely reflecting the progression of αSyn pathology. The seeding activity was lower in the duodenal than in the gastric wall, indicating differences in αSyn burden.
Progressive brain atrophy and cortical reorganization related to surgery in temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Li Wei , Qin Yingjie , Li Xiuli , Zhang Heng , Gong Qiyong , Zhou Dong , An Dongmei
Published: December 2024

Objective

Epilepsy is associated with progressive cortical atrophy exceeding normal aging. We aimed to explore longitudinal cortical alterations in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and distinct surgery outcomes.

Methods

We obtained longitudinal T1‐weighted MRI data in a well‐designed cohort, including 53 operative TLE patients, 23 nonoperative TLE patients, and 23 healthy controls. According to seizure outcomes at 24 months after surgery, operative patients were divided into seizure‐free (SF) and nonseizure‐free (NSF) group. Operative patients were scanned before and after surgery, while nonoperative patients and healthy controls were rescanned with similar interval times. We measured gray matter volume (GMV) in all participants and compared longitudinal cortical alterations among groups.

Results

In nonoperative group, statistically significant GMV decrease was observed in ipsilateral median cingulate and paracingulate gyri and cerebellum crus I when compared with healthy controls. In operative group, postoperative GMV increase was discovered in many regions involving bilateral hemispheres, especially in the frontal lobe, without differences between SF and NSF group. Postoperative GMV decrease was found in ipsilateral inferior frontal gyrus, putamen, thalamus, and insula. GMV decrease in ipsilateral inferior frontal gyrus, putamen, and insula was more significant in SF group.

Interpretation

Progressive cortical atrophy existed in nonoperative TLE patients. Cortical remodeling indicated by postoperative GMV increase may arise mostly from the surgery itself, rather than postsurgical seizure outcomes. More significant GMV decrease in ipsilateral inferior frontal gyrus, putamen, and insula may imply their closer connections with resected regions in seizure‐free patients.
Achieving Medication‐Free Remission in Patients With Juvenile Dermatomyositis
Authors: Maccora Ilaria , Brunner Hermine I. , Cassedy Amy , Altaye Mekibib , Quinlan‐Waters Megan , Lovell Daniel J. , Grom Alexei , Angeles‐Han Sheila T.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Prognostic factors associated with medication discontinuation in children with juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) remain largely elusive. We aim to identify the predictors of medication‐free remission (MFR) in children with JDM.

Methods

In this retrospective study, patients diagnosed with JDM according to Peter & Bohan criteria and followed for ≥18 months at a tertiary care center from 2006 through 2022 were included. Data extracted included demographics, physical examination, laboratory results, and medications. MFR was defined as inactive JDM after discontinuation of all systemic immunosuppressives for ≥6 months, in line with international consensus guidelines for trials of therapies in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. A two‐sided P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Of 55 patients with JDM (63.6% female, age median [interquartile range (IQR)] 6 [3.5–12] years), 29 (52.7%) achieved MFR after a median (IQR) of 33 (22.5–55.2) months. MFR was more common in those who were younger at JDM diagnosis (median 5 vs 8 years, P = 0.008), had early resolution of disease activity (median 11 vs 18 months, P < 0.001), and presented with Gottron papules (χ2 = 5.25; P = 0.022) and elevated lactate dehydrogenase (χ2 = 4.82, P = 0.028). Diagnosis of JDM before 5 years old (odds ratio 4.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2–16.7) was the only predictor of MFR in our multivariate model (area under the curve 0.65, 95% CI 0.53–0.76).

Conclusion

Half of our patients with JDM achieved MFR. Age at JDM diagnosis may be an important predictor of achieving MFR.
Laser‐Direct‐Writing Reversible Aligned Wrinkling on Arbitrary Films Assisted by a Detachable Assembly Strategy
Authors: Wang Xi , Hu Keshuai , Wang Juanjuan , Han Xue , Li Xiaopeng , Xu Fan , Cao Yanping , Lu Conghua
Published: December 2024

Dynamic oriented wrinkling especially on arbitrary film materials is highly desirable yet remains a great challenge. Here, fabrication of programmable aligned wrinkling patterns on different film/substrate systems via a laser‐direct‐writing (LDW) method is reported, regardless of photofunctionality and transparence of the target films. The key is related to smart introduction of photothermal materials (PTMs) into compliant substrates and even as an independent attachable/detachable layer assembled underneath the film/substrate systems. Experiments and theoretical modeling reveal that with the help of the photothermal effect of PTMs, in situ LDW‐induced localized dynamic anisotropic stress field is responsible for the intriguing LDW path‐parallel aligned wrinkling. Furthermore, dimensional analysis is carried out and explicit solutions quantifying the connection of wrinkling morphology parameters with the LDW conditions are derived for the first time, which enables theoretical pattern designing. It is highlighted that the attachable/detachable assembly strategy for the independent PTMs layer endows arbitrary film/substrate systems with on‐demand photosensitivity when needed, which has been inaccessible previously. As demonstrated, these dynamic oriented wrinkling systems have found broad applications especially in smart soft photonics, e.g., information storage, anticounterfeiting, and responsive optical devices.
Low‐Frequency Phonon Dispersion Relation Enabling Stable Cathode from Spent Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Jia Kai , He Yujia , Piao Zhihong , Cao Zhenjiang , Zhang Mengtian , Zhu Yanfei , Li Long , Liang Zheng , Kumar R. Vasant , Zhou Guangmin , Ding Shujiang , Xi Kai
Published: December 2024

Direct recycling technology can effectively solve the environmental pollution and resource waste problems caused by spent lithium‐ion batteries. However, the repaired LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 (NCM) black mass by direct recycling technology shows an unsatisfactory cycle life, which is attributed to the formation of spinel/rock salt phases and rotational stacking faults caused by the in‐plane and out‐of‐plane migration of transition metal (TM) atoms during charge/discharge. Herein, local lattice stress is introduced into the regenerated cathode during repair. The resulting stress gradient leads to the localization of the phonon mode and changes the phonon dispersion relation of materials, lowers the bending and stretching vibration frequencies of the TM─O covalent bond in cathode materials, and inhibits the TM atoms migration and the formation of defect structures. Beneficial from the favorable low‐frequency phonon dispersion relation, the regenerated NCM represents remarkably enhanced structural stability during cycling, and exhibits good electrochemical performance. This reconstructed phonon dispersion relation approach broadens the perspective for lattice stress field engineering to suppress the defective structure raised from TM migration and paves the way for the development of regenerated cathodes with long durability.
Design Guidelines for Luminescent Solar Concentrator Greenhouses in the United States
Authors: Loh Kristine Q. , Harbick Kale , Eylands Nathan J. , Kortshagen Uwe R. , Ferry Vivian E.
Published: December 2024

Agrivoltaic greenhouses combine controlled environment agriculture and photovoltaics in one plot of land to simultaneously address the global challenges of renewable energy and sustainable food production. Luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) benefit these systems by providing additional design flexibility, tuning light transmission for plant growth while generating electricity. Herein, design guidelines for LSCs in agrivoltaic greenhouses are determined given the two competing priorities of light utilization, crop yield and energy generation. Using a comprehensive model, the impact of LSC design choices on the greenhouse environment, energy generation, crop yield, and economic value in 48 locations across the United States is evaluated. It is shown that the solar cell coverage ratio and the greenhouse's heating demands determine the energy offset provided by the LSC. For improving crop yield, luminophore selection should maximize transmitted red light. The sensitivity of the economic value to crop yield, thus dictating luminophore selection for optimizing plant growth, is demonstrated. LSC greenhouses are as profitable as conventional greenhouses generally for states below 40 °N. Future improvements to LSC manufacturing may allow previously unprofitable LSC greenhouses to become economically viable in northern states. This work showcases the broad design space and strong potential for LSCs in agrivoltaics.
Photocatalytic Partial Water Oxidation Promoted by a Hydrogen Acceptor‐Hydroxyl Mediator Couple
Authors: Mai Yuanqiang , Zhang Dongsheng , Maliutina Kristina , Leng Xueyang , Cai Nengjun , Li Jialu , Wang Chao , Huang Yu , Zhang Kai , Zhang Wujun , Li Yongwang , Besenbacher Flemming , Niemantsverdriet Hans , Liang Wenting , Shen Yanbin , Lim Tingbin , Richards Emma , Su Ren
Published: December 2024

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is an important chemical in synthetic chemistry with huge demands. Photocatalytic synthesis of H2O2 via oxygen reduction and water oxidation reactions (ORR and WOR) is considered as a promising and desirable solution for on‐site applications. However, the efficiency of such a process is low due to the poor solubility of molecular oxygen and the rapid reverse reaction of hydroxyl radicals (•OH) with hydrogen atoms (H). Here, a strategy is proposed to boost the H2O2 evolution via oxidation of water by employing a H acceptor (A, nitrocyclohexane), an •OH mediator (M, dioxane), and a photocatalyst (CdS nanosheets). While •OH radicals are stabilized by dioxane to produce ketyl radicals prior to the formation of H2O2, H atoms are effectively utilized in the generation of cyclohexanone oxime, an important intermediate in the production of Nylon 6. The system displays a rapid kinetic accumulation of H2O2 (0.13 min−1) to a high concentration (6.6 mM). At optimum reaction conditions, a high quantum efficiency (16.6%) and light‐to‐chemical conversion efficiency (4.9%) can be achieved under 410 nm irradiation.
Kinetics Dominated, Interface Targeted Rapid Heating for Battery Material Rejuvenation
Authors: Zhang Hao , Song Yaduo , Zhao Jiale , Cheng Zhiheng , Guo Jinming , Cao Minglei , Yu Haijun , Wang Hao , Qie Long , Yuan Lixia , Yao Yonggang , Huang Yunhui
Published: December 2024

The ambitious pursuit of carbon neutrality underscores the pressing demand for closed‐loop recycling of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), amid escalating production and disposal challenges. Direct battery material recycling, emphasizing the rejuvenation of degraded materials, stands out as an environmentally benign alternative to conventional pyro‐ and hydro‐metallurgical processes that are intrinsically destructive. In addition, given the surface, interface, and interphase as the major failure mechanisms in degraded materials, rapid heating technology (RHT) emerges as a promising direct recycling method, harnessing its distinctive kinetics and thermodynamics to trigger highly time‐ and energy‐efficient, precisely defect‐ and interface‐targeted approach to revitalize degraded materials. This review summarizes recent advancements in RHT‐based LIB recycling strategies, focusing on active materials recovery, efficient regeneration, and reutilization, with emphasis on expedited kinetics and locally confined chemical reactions at interfaces. It also outlines the perspectives and future directions by emphasizing the need for re‐manufactured materials to meet increasing application demands. This comprehensive review aims to guide the recycling and upcycling of spent LIBs toward a green and sustainable battery economy.
Economic Feasibility of Crop‐Livestock Integration System in Brazil
Authors: Calil Yuri C. D. , Ribera Luis
Published: December 2024

We investigate the economic feasibility of the Brazilian crop‐livestock integration system. Under this system, the Brazilian farmer can produce soybeans, corn, and graze for cattle on the same land during one crop year. This technology can substantially increase agricultural production in the country. We contrasted the stochastic net present value of traditional farming with the integrated system under four different scenarios. To rank the scenarios, we use stochastic dominance methods. The results suggest more significant economic gains for crop‐livestock integration scenarios.
Digital transformation of public employment services in the post‐pandemic era. Evidence from Italy as a latecomer country
Authors: Sacchi Stefano , Scarano Gianluca
Published: December 2024

The Next Generation EU (NGEU) economic recovery package has set the conditions for unprecedented investment in policy areas considered of strategic importance by each Member State. This article focusses on the Italian case, characterised by long‐lasting weaknesses in active labour market policies and public employment services (PES) to analyse whether, and under what conditions, resources and programming of the magnitude of NGEU may be able to lead toward PES digital transformation. Italy's plan to enact NGEU has allocated 5.4 billion euro to fund a regionally implemented program aimed at reforming Italian PES where digitalisation represents a key objective. Based on interviews with PES officials and document analysis, it is possible to understand the extent to which such massive investments can pave the way for effective digital transformation and consider what (and how) additional factors may further influence such process.
Electrospinnability and Air Filtration Efficiency of PVDF Nanofibers: The Role of Electrospinning Solution Properties
Authors: Valencia‐Osorio Laura Margarita , Aguiar Mônica Lopes , Álvarez‐Láinez Mónica Lucía
Published: December 2024

This study successfully refined the electrospinnability window for polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofiber membranes by systematically investigating solvent systems to achieve bead‐free morphologies mapped within a Teas ternary diagram. The correlation between fiber morphology and solution properties, such as viscosity, surface tension, and conductivity, allowed for a reproducible approach to fabricate high‐performance nanofiber membranes. Using DMSO:Ac/60:40 solvent ratio and a 14% w/w PVDF concentration, following a 32 factorial DoE, bead‐free fibers with an average diameter of ~700 nm were produced. This solvent selection and morphology refinement enhanced the crystalline β phase, which promoted intern‐oriented dipoles that were enhanced by an additional charge induction effect. This led to increased volume and surface charges on the membrane, enhancing electrostatic filtration mechanisms. Filtration tests at a 5.3 cm/s face velocity showed that a 10.4 g/m2 bead‐free PVDF fiber membrane enriched with a β phase and additional induced surface charge, outperformed bead‐on‐string structures and a commercial high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, achieving HEPA‐grade efficiencies with low air resistance . These results highlighted the role of morphology and charge characteristics in filtration efficiency and provided a method for PVDF electrospinning to meet the growing demand for effective ultrafine PM filtration.
Biotechnological Interventions for the Production of Subunit Vaccines Against Group A Rotavirus
Authors: Prajapati Mukta , Malik Pooja , Sinha Astha , Yadav Honey , Jaiwal Yachna K. , Ahlawat Yogesh K. , Chaudhary Darshna , Jaiwal Ranjana , Sharma Nisha , Jaiwal Pawan K. , Chattu Vijay K.
Published: December 2024

Group A rotavirus (RVA) is a major cause of severe gastroenteritis in infants and young children globally, despite the availability of live‐attenuated vaccines. Challenges such as limited efficacy in low‐income regions, safety concerns for immunocompromised individuals, and cold‐chain dependency necessitate alternative vaccine strategies. Subunit vaccines, which use specific viral proteins to elicit immunity, provide a safer and more adaptable approach. This review highlights biotechnological advancements in producing subunit vaccines, focusing on recombinant expression systems like bacterial, yeast, insect, mammalian, and plant‐based platforms for scalable and cost‐effective production of viral proteins. Key innovations include molecular engineering, adjuvant development, and delivery system improvements to enhance vaccine immunogenicity and efficacy. Subunit vaccines and virus‐like particles expressed in various systems have demonstrated promising preclinical and clinical results, with some candidates nearing commercial readiness. Reverse vaccinology, combined with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, is driving the development of innovative multiepitope vaccines and antivirals. Strategies such as passive immunization, single‐chain antibodies, immunobiotics, and novel antivirals are also explored as alternative management options. The review also underscores advanced genome editing and reverse genetics approaches to improve vaccine design and antiviral therapies. These biotechnological interventions offer hope for equitable and effective control of rotavirus diarrhea, particularly in resource‐limited settings, and represent significant progress toward addressing current vaccine limitations.