bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial changes in zooplankton communities in a strong human-mediated river ecosystem
Authors: Czerniawski Robert , Kowalska-Góralska Monika
Published: July 2018

River damming causes a decrease in water current velocity which leads to an increase in richness and abundance of organisms atypical for running waters. Zooplankton is a representative example of such organisms. The influx of zooplankton from carp ponds is an additional factor that increases richness and abundance of zooplankton in rivers. We hypothesized that zooplankton dispersing from the carp ponds colonize the impoundments in river and the richness of zooplankton increase in impoundments by development of new species, not observed in the upstream. The zooplankton was collected monthly from April to September of 2013 and 2014. Sampling sites were located in the Barycz river (in the lotic sections and in the dam impoundments), as well as in its tributaries, which are the outlets of carp ponds. The most changes in zooplankton richness and abundance were observed at sites located within the dam impoundments, especially in relation to the lower values of the current velocity. Since the abundance of pelagic rotifers, cladocerans and copepods in the carp pond outlets was similar to that at lower sites in the Barycz, the influence of the carp pond outlets on the abundance in the dam and lotic sections was significant. The river itself in its impounded sections provides advantageous conditions for retention and colonization by a high abundance of zooplankton dispersing from the carp ponds, and for the development of species not occurred in the upstream, which, in turn, increases richness.
Peptide presentation by HLA-DQ molecules is associated with the development of immune tolerance
Authors: Manczinger Máté , Kemény Lajos
Published: July 2018

HLA class II proteins are important elements of human adaptive immune recognition and are associated with numerous infectious and immune-mediated diseases. These highly variable molecules can be classified into DP, DQ and DR groups. It has been proposed that in contrast with DP and DR, epitope binding by DQ variants rather results in immune tolerance. However, the pieces of evidence are limited and controversial. We found that DQ molecules bind more human epitopes than DR. Pathogen-associated epitopes bound by DQ molecules are more similar to human proteins than the ones bound by DR. Accordingly, DQ molecules bind epitopes of significantly different pathogen species. Moreover, the binding of autoimmunity-associated epitopes by DQ confers protection from autoimmune diseases. Our results suggest a special role of HLA-DQ in immune homeostasis and help to better understand the association of HLA molecules with infectious and autoimmune diseases.
An online survey of personal mosquito-repellent strategies
Authors: Moore Emily Lucille , Scott Mary Alice , Rodriguez Stacy Deadra , Mitra Soumi , Vulcan Julia , Cordova Joel Javierla , Chung Hae-Na , de Souza Debora Linhares Lino , Gonzales Kristina Kay , Hansen Immo Alex
Published: July 2018

Background

Mosquito repellents can be an effective method for personal protection against mosquito bites that are a nuisance and carry the risk of transmission of mosquito-borne pathogens likeplasmodia, dengue virus, chikungunya virus, and Zika virus. A multitude of commercially available products are currently on the market, some of them highly effective while others have low or no efficacy. Many home remedies of unknown efficacy are also widely used.

Methods

We conducted a survey study to determine what kind of mosquito repellents and other mosquito control strategies people use. Our online survey was focused on unconventional methods and was answered by 5,209 participants.

Results

The majority of participants resided in the United States, were female (67%), had higher education (81% had a university degree), and were 18 to 37 years old (50%). The most commonly used repellent was DEET spray (48%), followed closely by citronella candles (43%) and ‘natural’ repellent sprays (36%). We collected a plethora of home remedies and other strategies people use that warrant further research into their effectiveness.

Discussion

Our study lays the foundation for future research in alternative, unconventional methods to repel mosquitoes that may be culturally acceptable and accessible for people.
Encuadre de la memoria mediática chilena: las noticias sobre la muerte de Fidel Castro
Authors:   Universidad de los Andes (Chile), Tagle Francisco , Solà Nubia ,   Universidad de los Andes (Chile)
Published: July 2018

Fidel Castro fue uno de los personajes extranjeros más controversiales de las últimas décadas. A partir de las noticias que generó su muerte en noviembre de 2016, se estudió la memoria construida en torno a su figura por los medios de comunicación de ese país. Considerando que la relación entre memoria y medios no es inocua, se propone que la prensa escrita y los noticiarios de televisión, con sus propias agendas ideológicas y las características de sus soportes, recordaron al líder de la revolución cubana a partir de determinados encuadres mediatizados: rito fúnebre, contextualización y memoria en debate.
Capital de género y segregación vertical: efectos en la trayectoria creativa publicitaria
Authors:   Universidad de Las Américas (Ecuador), Chalá Priscila
Published: July 2018

La investigación analiza los efectos del capital de género en los capitales creativo, académico, social, económico, erótico, humano, psíquico y emocional de la trayectoria profesional de un grupo de creativos y creativas del campo publicitario ecuatoriano. Mediante 16 entrevistas semiestructuradas basadas en el análisis de contenido temático se realiza una aproximación a las experiencias en el comienzo, ingreso, permanencia y ascenso mediadas por el género. Los hallazgos sugieren que la aparente paridad que se advierte en las primeras fases se desdibuja, mientras que las asimetrías que determinan que las trayectorias se encaminen hacia la segregación vertical se acentúan.
El uso de Twitter en las marcas de moda. Marcas de lujo frente a marcas low-cost
Authors:   Glasgow Caledonian University (Reino Unido), García Medina Irene , Miquel-Segarra Susana ,   Universitat Jaume I de Castellón (España), Navarro-Beltrá Marián ,   Universidad Católica de Murcia (España)
Published: July 2018

En este artículo se analizó comparativamente la capacidad dialógica de las marcas de moda de lujo frente a las denominadas low-cost en la red social Twitter. Para ello, se recurrió a la metodología cuantitativa y se realizó un análisis de contenido de 1135 tuits publicados por H&M, Zara, Ralph Lauren y Hugo Boss. Se observó que no existe consenso entre las organizaciones para dirigirse a sus públicos, y si bien las marcas low-cost son las que hacen un mayor esfuerzo por mantener un diálogo, las firmas de lujo reciben más interacciones.
PROPOSTA DE ATIVIDADES DIDÁTICAS PARA O ENSINO DE MATEMÁTICA COM VISTAS À APRENDIZAGEM SIGNIFICATIVA DE CONCEITOS MATEMÁTICOS
Authors: Tibulo Cleiton , Tibulo Vaneza De Carli , Santarosa Maria Cecília Pereira
Published: July 2018

A disciplina de Matemática nas escolas tem se tornado uma grande preocupação para todos os envolvidos no processo de ensino e aprendizagem: alunos, pais e professores. O grau de dificuldade apresentado pelos alunos, bem como sua desmotivação, tem promovido a evasão escolar, ou aprendizagens mecânicas. Em termos cognitivos, este tipo de aprendizagem não resulta em atribuição de significados por parte dos alunos, além de não ficar retido na estrutura cognitiva por muito tempo. Diante deste contexto é apresentado neste trabalho um conjunto de atividades didáticas que vem auxiliado no ensino e aprendizagem da disciplina de Matemática na Seção de Apoio Pedagógico do Colégio Militar de Santa Maria.
Costs and Access Barriers to Ondansetron in the US
Authors: Jiang Changchuan , Yabroff K. Robin , Nipp Ryan D. , Han Xuesong , Hu Xin , Liao Joshua M. , Shih Ya-Chen Tina
Published: November 2024

This cross-sectional study compares the use of management tools and plan-level total costs for oral ondansetron between Part D independent prescription drug plans and Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans.
Primary Care Practice Telehealth Use and Low-Value Care Services
Authors: Liu Terrence , Zhu Ziwei , Thompson Michael P. , McCullough Jeffrey S. , Hou Hechuan , Chang Chiang-Hua , Fendrick A. Mark , Ellimoottil Chad
Published: November 2024

Importance

The rapid expansion of telehealth transformed how primary care practices deliver care; however, uncertainties about the quality of telehealth-delivered care compared with in-person care remain. While there are concerns that increased telehealth may introduce wasteful care, how telehealth affects the delivery of low-value care is unknown.

Objective

To examine whether a primary care practice’s level of telehealth use is associated with changes in the rates of low-value care.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study using a difference-in-differences study design was conducted from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2022, using Medicare fee-for-service claims data. Participants were Medicare beneficiaries attributed to primary care practices in Michigan.

Exposures

Low, medium, or high tertile of practice-level telehealth use.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Low-value care was assessed using 8 claims-based measures relevant to primary care, grouped into 4 main categories: office-based, laboratory-based, imaging-based, and mixed-modality services. Poisson regression models were used to estimate the association between practice-level telehealth use and rates of low-value care services, controlling for practice-level characteristics.

Results

A total of 577 928 beneficiaries (332 100 [57%] women; mean [SD] age, 76 [8] years) attributed to 2552 primary care practices were included in the study. After adjusting for practice-level characteristics and baseline differences in low-value care rates between telehealth use groups, high practice-level telehealth use was associated with lower rates of low-value cervical cancer screening (−2.9 [95% CI, −5.3 to −0.4] services per 1000 beneficiaries) and lower rates of low-value thyroid testing (−40 [95% CI, −70 to −9] tests per 1000 beneficiaries) compared with low practice-level telehealth use. Of the other 6 outcomes examined, there was no association between practice-level telehealth use and rates of low-value care services.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries who received care from primary care practices in Michigan, some low-value care services (ie, cervical cancer screening among women older than 65 years and low-value thyroid testing) were lower among practices with high telehealth use, and there was no association between practice-level telehealth use in rates of most other low-value care services not delivered in the office. As telehealth continues to be an important part of care delivery, evaluating how it may encourage or discourage low-value care services is critical to understanding its impact on quality of care.
Fully Wireless, In Vivo Assessment of Superimposed Physiological Vital Signs Using a Biodegradable Passive Tag Interrogated with a Wearable Reader Patch
Authors: Koirala Gyan Raj , Lee Dong‐Hyun , Jo Young Jin , Kim Yeong Hwan , Shin Joo Hwan , Hyun Jiyu , Ming Yong , Jeong Chanho , Bhang Suk Ho , Kim Tae‐il
Published: November 2024

State‐of‐the‐art biosignal monitoring systems strive to achieve a balance between biocompatibility, biodegradability, and miniaturized, unobtrusive signal acquisition, thus requiring further research for improved user safety, mobility, and comfort. Here, a fully wireless sensing system is presented for real‐time in vivo assessment of physiological vital signs, addressing these challenges to enhance performance and user experience. The system features a biodegradable passive tag with a nanoscale crack‐based strain gauge sensor connected to a coil antenna on a gelatin‐ionic liquid substrate (GIS). The thermal crosslinking in the GIS promotes adhesion, while the presence of ionic liquid decreases the self‐resonance frequency of the BCA to below 100 MHz, enabling the device to operate in detuned mode. A lightweight (1.547 g) wearable reader patch interrogates an implanted passive tag via near‐field inductive coupling and transmits sensory data to peripheral devices via Bluetooth. Thus, the system ensures minimal tissue absorption and extended transmission range while consuming ≈80 mW of power during operation. In vitro and in vivo studies, culminating in successful implementation within a rat model, validated the implanted tag's biocompatibility and the system's capability to wirelessly acquire and process superimposed physiological vital signs, highlighting its potential to enhance patient outcomes through improved diagnostic and monitoring practices.
Exploring Dipolar Dynamics and Ionic Transport in Metal‐Organic Frameworks: Experimental and Theoretical Insights
Authors: Freund Ralph , Schulz Arthur , Lunkenheimer Peter , Kraft Maryana , Bergler Thomas , Oberhofer Harald , Volkmer Dirk
Published: November 2024

The present study examines the potential coupling between dipolar dynamics and ionic charge transport in metal‐organic framework (MOF) compounds. MOFs are known for their high porosity and customizable properties. By integrating freely rotating dipolar groups into the ligands, a novel structure, CFA‐25, akin to the known BUT‐2 framework, is synthesized. This facilitated the investigation of local and macroscopic effects, particularly the possible interplay between dipolar units and Cs cations. The research aimed to understand fundamental dipolar dynamics and ionic charge transport, employing Cs ions for their X‐ray diffraction characterizability. Experimental analysis using dielectric spectroscopy, complemented by theoretical simulations, explored questions regarding glassy freezing of re‐orientational dynamics, Cs cation motion within the network, and the influence of dipolar units on transport. Contrary to previous reports, this work finds that Cs transport exhibits substantial barriers, necessitating specialized simulation techniques for accurate characterization. This interdisciplinary approach sheds light on the intricate dynamics of MOFs and offers insights into their potential applications involving ion transport phenomena.
Laser‐Structured Graphite Paper Hybrid Anode with Selective Lithiophilic Grooves for Controlled Lithium Metal Deposition
Authors: Wang Gang , Mu Yongbiao , Gu Huicun , Li Hui , Ren Haixiang , Zeng Lin , Xu Shaolin
Published: November 2024

Lithium (Li) metal anodes offer significantly higher theoretical capacity than graphite anodes but face challenges in terms of stability and safety due to dendrite growth and solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) instability. To address these issues, a hybrid Li‐ion/metal anode is proposed to enhance cycling stability by selectively forming lithiated graphite, thereby promoting uniform Li deposition. By laser‐processing commercial graphite paper (GP), a laser‐ablated graphite paper (LGP) anode featuring grooved structures enriched with oxygen‐containing functional groups is fabricated. These structures expose electrochemically active edge planes that facilitate Li‐ion adsorption and intercalation in graphite flakes. The lithophilic functional groups and lithiated graphite (LiC6) inside grooves promote selective Li metal deposition, inhibit dendrite growth, and enhance energy density. The Li||LGP half‐cell operated stably over 300 cycles at 1 mA cm−2 with a Coulombic efficiency over 99%. LGP||LiFePO4 full‐cell maintained a capacity of 157 mAh g−1 after 150 cycles at 0.5 C, compared to 137.5 mAh g−1 for GP||LiFePO4 cells. The LGP full‐cell also shows a capacity of 104 mAh g−1 with 91% capacity retention after 500 cycles at 5 C, whereas the GP full‐cell declined rapidly. These results highlight the potential of the approach for improving the cycling stability and performance of Li metal batteries.
High‐Mobility Emissive n‐Type Polymer Semiconductors: Strong Synergy of Efficient Carrier‐Transporting Diketopyrrolopyrrole and Intense Light‐Emitting Phenylene‐Vinylene
Authors: Chen Jinyang , Wang Sichun , Ren Shiwei , Meng Ruifang , Shi Wenkang , Zhu Mingliang , Zeng Minfeng , Zhao Yan , Guo Yunlong , Liu Yunqi
Published: November 2024

High‐mobility emissive n‐type polymer semiconductors (HMEN‐CPs) are essential for organic optoelectronic devices. However, due to the lack of highly electron‐deficient building blocks with excellent physicochemical properties and the molecular design trade‐offs, the development of HMEN‐CPs has significantly lagged behind that of p‐type counterparts. Here, a new electron‐deficient acceptor, TFBVDPP is developed, by integrating the efficient carrier‐transporting diketopyrrolopyrrole and intense light‐emitting phenylene‐vinylene into a single molecule system. A series of all‐acceptor‐type polymers are synthesized by Pd‐catalyzed Suzuki polycondensation. The introduction of a vinyl bridge induces intra‐/intermolecular non‐covalent interactions, significantly narrowing the optical bandgap while enhancing coplanarity and crystallinity of the conjugated backbone, thus one of the polymers P1 exhibits ideal ambipolar transports with hole and electron mobilities reaching 4.6 and 3.7 cm2 V−1 s−1, respectively. Additionally, by directly homopolymerizing TFBVDPP, the non‐radiative transition is effectively suppressed, maintaining high electron transport while enhancing emission. This system shows excellent unipolar electron mobility (µe) and high quantum yield (Φ), achieving a record Φ · µe value exceeding 10−2 cm2 V−1 s−1, which is at least three orders of magnitude higher than the reported values. This study provides a new approach for developing HMEN‐CPs, and demonstrates their great potential in advancing organic optoelectronic technologies.
Host–Guest Adduct as a Stimuli‐Responsive Prodrug: Enzyme‐Triggered Self‐Assembly Process of a Short Peptide Within Mitochondria to Induce Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Sarkar Sandip , Chatterjee Atin , Kim Dohyun , Saritha Cevella , Barman Surajit , Jana Batakrishna , Ryu Ja‐Hyoung , Das Amitava
Published: November 2024

To address the issue of nonspecific biodistribution of a chemotherapeutic drug, stable [2]pseudorotaxane complexes (PK@CAOPP and PR@CAOPP) are used to demonstrate a proof of concept. Cationic ‐PPh3+ moiety in CAOPP allows specific localization of the PK@CAOPP/ PR@CAOPP in the mitochondrial membrane (MM). Electrostatic interaction between the cationic LysinePK or ArgininePR moiety and the negatively charged phosphoesterCAOPP functionality in CAOPP favours strong adduct formation. The ALP‐induced hydrolytic cleavage of the phosphoester moiety in cancer cells triggers dephosphorylation and releases PK/ PR moiety from PK@CAOPP/PR@CAOPP. PK or PR, derived from the Phe‐Phe dipeptide, formed fibril‐like molecular aggregates in the MM to induce dysfunction, depolarization, ROS generation and apoptotic MCF7 cell death. Such phenomena were not observed in ALP‐negative HEK293 normal cells. These propositions were confirmed through control studies using NBDK and PE, other guest molecules. Smaller size and inclusion of the short peptides (PK or PR) within the hydrophobic interior of CAOPP, were attributed to their stability in blood serum. Thus, we have demonstrated the use of supramolecular adducts as a potential therapeutic option for treating cancer cells without affecting healthy cells. The efficacy was also established with an in‐vivo MCF7 tumour xenograft model using Balb/c nude mice.
Managing Edge States in Reduced‐Dimensional Perovskites for Highly Efficient Deep‐Blue LEDs
Authors: Wei Keyu , Cui Minghuan , Hu Cejun , Wei Shuo , Zhang Zheng , Zhou Tong , Zhang Jia , Yue Xinxin , Yin Kailin , Sun Changjiu , Li Saisai , Feng Yanxing , Qaid Saif M. H. , Zhao Dongbing , Fu Xuewen , Zhang Wei , Qin Chaochao , Liu Yufang , Jiang Yuanzhi , Yuan Mingjian
Published: November 2024

Pure‐halide reduced‐dimensional perovskites, featuring large exciton binding energy and tunable bandgap, show great potential for high‐efficiency deep‐blue perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs). However, their efficiency, particularly in the low n‐value phase domain (“n” represents the number of octahedral sheets), lags behind analogous perovskite emitters. Herein, it is demonstrated that the vibration of edge‐dangling octahedra in the low n‐value phase activates notorious exciton‐phonon (EP) coupling, thereby deteriorating efficiency. To address this issue, an approach is reported to manage edge‐state lattices by introducing tris(4‐fluorophenyl) phosphine (TFP) ligands. Attributed to the large steric hindrance of TFP ligands and their strong binding affinity for edge‐dangling octahedra, the edged‐octahedral tilting reconstruction can effectively suppress lattice vibration and inhibit EP coupling. This strategy yields deep‐blue emitting film with a spectral linewidth of 21 nm and a photoluminescence quantum yield of 85% at low excitation densities. The resulting PeLEDs achieve deep‐blue emission at 469 nm, with a maximum luminance of 2,428 cd m−2 and a maximum external quantum efficiency of 10.4%, marking them among the most efficient deep‐blue PeLEDs reported. The strategy also showcases universality for higher n‐value reduced‐dimensional perovskites. It is believed that the observation, along with the edge‐state management strategy, lays the groundwork for further advancements in reduced‐dimensional perovskite optoelectronic devices.
Optimized Low‐Loss Ge2Sb2Te5 Superlattice: Design, Fabrication and Application
Authors: Dong Yida , Wu Ziqi , Zhong Wentao , Zhu Zhuoxuan , Liang Jinxuan , Li Yida , Xiang X.‐D. , Lei Lei , Shen Mei
Published: November 2024

Optical phase change materials (OPCMs) hold significant promise in photonic integrated circuits (PICs) due to their non‐volatile modulation capabilities through phase transition. Recently, integrating OPCMs with silicon devices has been leveraged to achieve multi‐level modulation in neural network computing. However, the conventional OPCM Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST), faces challenges in large‐scale PICs due to its large absorption. In this work, an optimized low‐loss GST superlattice is demonstrated, which significantly lowers crystalline attenuation coefficients from 2.69 to 0.539 dB µm−1, with negligible loss in amorphous state, while retaining excellent phase modulation capability. Additionally, 15 distinguishable extinction ratio states are achieved by manipulating irradiation energy for a hybrid Si microring resonator (MRR) embedded with GST superlattice. To further explore the potential application of GST superlattice in optical computing, an all‐optical tunable temporal differentiator is empirically demonstrated with a single hybrid MRR, achieving a broad dynamic differentiation order ranging from 0.7 to 1.3. The non‐volatile nature of OPCM facilitates low energy consumption and effectively optimizes chip density. The proposed structural design strategy to reduce the absorption loss is universal for any promising OPCMs feasible for large‐scale artificial intelligence‐driven PICs, including optical analog computing, optical switching and optical neural networks.
Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite Photosensitive Field‐Effect Transistor Enabled by Poly(3‐Hexylthiophene‐2,5‐Diyl) Channel Layer
Authors: Huang Fobao , Yang Qingyuan , Ding Yiluo , Liu Chunxiao , Chao Yong , Hu Gongwei , Huang Wei
Published: November 2024

Photosensitive field‐effect transistors (PhFETs) are three‐terminal photodetectors that enable photocurrent modulation and amplification through gate‐voltage control. Organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskites are known for their high photoelectric conversion efficiency, but ion migration in these materials causes gate‐field shielding, posing challenges for constructing PhFETs using only 3D perovskites. To address this issue, a heterojunction strategy is proposed using the stable and process‐compatible organic semiconductor poly(3‐hexylthiophene‐2,5‐diyl) (P3HT) as the channel layer and the organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskite cesium‐doped formamidinium lead trihalide (FA0.9Cs0.1PbI3) as the light absorption layer. The bottom‐gate top‐contact PhFETs are fabricated using all‐solution processes. By comparing PhFET performance across three active‐layer structures (perovskite, P3HT, perovskite/P3HT) under dark and illuminated conditions, it is found that perovskite devices basically do not exhibit field‐effect but have the highest light‐to‐dark current ratio; P3HT devices exhibit field‐effect but weak photoresponse at 532 nm; in contrast, P3HT/perovskite heterojunction devices not only achieve field‐effect but also exhibit substantial photoresponse. The P3HT channel effectively modulates or amplifies the photocurrent and dark current of the heterojunction device, yielding nearly ten‐fold enhancements in responsivity and external quantum efficiency compared to perovskite devices, along with significantly improved response speed. This study advances the development of 3D organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskite PhFETs.
Sulfur (VI) Fluoride Exchange (SuFEx) via Glass–Assisted Organocatalysis
Authors: Nawaz Ismat , Nawaz Maryam , Shah Zaib Saleem Rahman , Abbas Chotana Ghayoor
Published: November 2024

An environmentally benign route for the synthesis of sulfonamides via Sulfur (VI) Fluoride Exchange (SuFEx) chemistry utilizing N‐methylimidazole, that simultaneously act as a base, precatalyst, HF by‐product scavenger, as well as solvent, is described. This one‐step sulfonamide synthesis exhibits excellent reactivity toward highly electron‐deficient and less nucleophilic anilines as well as aminopyridines while tolerating a wide range of functional groups. In addition to the desired sulfonamide target, we also isolated an ionic salt as the sole side product from the reaction mixture that has been identified as bis[1‐methyl‐1H‐imidazole‐3‐ium] hexafluorosilicate (IV). The glass surface of reaction vessel is acting as the source of silicon present in the isolated side product. Formation of hexafluorosilicate salt is also facilitating the consumption of sulfonyl fluoride for sulfonamide synthesis. Optimization of the reaction under various conditions, as well as the isolation of the bis[1‐methyl‐1H‐imidazole‐3‐ium] hexafluorosilicate (IV) salt, highlight the crucial role of N‐methylimidazole and support the glass‐assisted approach. Besides the first example of glass–assisted SuFEx catalyzed by benign organic bases, this reaction also offers an alternative route for accessing protic hexafluorosilicate‐based molten salts without employing external HF. The synthetic utility of this SuFEx route for late‐stage functionalization is also demonstrated.
Patterns and heterogeneity in credit repayment performance: Evidence from Malian farmers
Authors: Ölkers Tim , Liu Shuang , Mußhoff Oliver , Yu Xiaohua
Published: November 2024

Formal credit can enhance farmers' purchasing power, increase productivity, and enforce resilience throughout the agricultural sector. Therefore, analyzing bank clients and credit data in the agricultural sector is of interest. This study aims to (1) investigate distinct cluster patterns among the bank's farmer clients in Mali utilizing clustering techniques on 3335 farmer clients with 9469 credit records data collected between January 2010 and April 2022, and (2) reveal whether these clusters exhibit heterogeneity regarding credit repayment performance. Our results indicate the presence of three distinct clusters differing by personal and credit characteristics: frequent low‐volume farmers (FLVF), moderate‐volume high‐interest farmers (MVHIF), and high‐volume long‐term farmers (HVLTF). Each identified and distinct cluster demonstrates a dissimilar on time, late, or defaulted repayment performance. The associations between credit volume, credit duration, interest rate, repayment periodicity, and various delayed repayments differ across clusters, indicating heterogeneity. Hence, tailored financial products to different farmer clusters are needed to enhance the repayment performance of farmers in Mali.
Structurally Asymmetric Ni−O−Mn Node in Metal–Organic Layers on Carbon Nitride Support for CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Guan Chen , Yue Xiaoyang , Liao Yulong , Xiang Quanjun
Published: November 2024

The Jahn–Teller (J–T) effect‐induced lattice distortion presents an advantageous approach to tailor the electronic structure and CO2 adsorption properties of catalytic centers, consequently conferring desirable photocatalytic CO2 reduction activity and selectivity. Nevertheless, achieving precise J–T distortion control over catalytic sites to enhance CO2 adsorption/activation and target‐product desorption remains a formidable challenge. In this work, we successfully induced J–T lattice distortion in neighboring Ni sites by exchanging high‐spin Mn2+ into Ni−O−Ni nodes. EXAFS results and DFT simulations revealed that the highly asymmetric Ni−O−Mn nodes induced structural contraction (shortened Ni−O bonds) in the adjacent Ni−O lattice. The magnetic hysteresis loop (M−H) confirmed that the introduction of Mn2+ increased the number of spin electrons, thereby increasing the magnetization intensity. The spin mismatch between photogenerated electrons and holes suppressed charge recombination. Significantly, the d orbitals of the Ni sites in the Ni−O−Mn nodes exhibited strong orbital hybridization with the p orbitals of CO2, as evidenced by the enhanced d‐p orbital overlap, facilitating rapid CO2 adsorption and activation. Consequently, the sample featuring lattice‐mismatched Ni−O−Mn nodes exhibited an 8.79‐fold enhancement in CO production rate compared to the Ni−O−Ni nodes, in the absence of cocatalysts and sacrificial reagents.
PVDF/PVB composite polymer electrolyte membranes with high conductivity and excellent cycling performance for lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Ren Yijin , Yang Yaojun , Zhang Jun , Ma Yanbin , Chen Congbo
Published: November 2024

Polymer electrolytes, which eliminate the hazards of using liquid electrolytes, including electrolyte leakage, thereby showing high safety and stability, exhibit high potential for application in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, for applicability in high‐performance LIBs, improving the ionic conductivity of polymer electrolytes is vital. This study proposes a new scheme for fabricating polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/polyvinyl butyral (PVB) composite polymer electrolyte membranes with high conductivity. As expected, the PVDF/PVB composite membranes synthesized in this study show a high porosity (48.8%) and liquid electrolyte uptake (110%) owing to low crystallinity; PVDF/PVB (9:1) gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) exhibit an excellent ionic conductivity of 3.90 × 10−3 S/cm at 20 °C and a good Li+ transference number (0.62). Consequently, Li||LiFePO4 cells with PVDF/PVB (9:1) GPEs show excellent cycling performance, a high discharge capacity, which changes only slightly from 153.98 to 132.09 mAh/g over 100 cycles at 0.2 °C, thereby showing a capacity retention of 93.5%, and a high coulombic efficiency of 98.35%. Finally, a mechanism for Li‐ion transport in PVDF/PVB GPEs is proposed. Strong non‐bonded interactions between the anhydride polar groups in PVB and Li+ could facilitate Li+ migration via cationic Li+ conduction by fixing anions (PF6−), thereby improving the electrochemical performance of the system. Thus, this study confirms that PVDF/PVB GPEs, with excellent ionic conductivity and cycling performance, exhibit promising application prospects in the field of LIBs. Therefore, the results of this study could open new frontiers in the fabrication of high‐performance and stable LIBs.
The effectiveness of immersive virtual reality applications (human anatomy) on self‐directed learning competencies among undergraduate nursing students: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Jallad Samar Thabet
Published: November 2024

Technological developments have significantly impacted various aspects of life, most notably healthcare and education. A nursing education shift was required to prepare digital generation. Consequently, nurse educators must adopt innovative approaches to teaching and learning, like incorporating immersive virtual reality (VR) into human anatomy courses to improve students' learning. To examine the influence of immersive VR applications (human anatomy) on self‐directed learning (SDL) competencies among undergraduate nursing students. A cross‐sectional design was conducted in the health profession's faculty at Al‐Quds University among the first year of the nursing program, who were enrolled in an anatomy course (N = 137). The Self‐Directed Learning Instrument was used, and independent sample t‐tests were conducted to compare the level of SDL among students who utilized the VR application (Human Anatomy VR). The results showed that 93.9% of the total were approximately 20 years old, and 85.4% were females. 90.5% of participants expressed satisfaction with using the VR application and that it would be beneficial in nursing courses. The average score of SDL for the whole group was 72.03 ± 13.07, and there is a positive significant relationship between SDL and students utilizing VR (p < 0.001), between SDL competencies and technological skills (p = 0.009), and type of digital tools (p = 0.049). The highest coefficient of correlation was related to planning and self‐monitoring (r = 0.918), and the lowest was related to interpersonal communications (r = 0.865). VR is an additional tool for enhancing learning, and nursing students perceive immersive VR technologies positively and prefer using three‐dimensional images in their anatomy courses. SDL assists students in identifying learning objectives, barriers, and outcomes through using VR technologies as teaching strategies.
Revisiting the Intrabinary Shock Model for Millisecond Pulsar Binaries: Radiative Losses and Long‐Term Variability
Authors: Park Jaegeun , Kim Chanho , An Hongjun , Wadiasingh Zorawar
Published: November 2024

Spectrally hard x‐ray emission with double‐peak light curves (LCs) and orbitally modulated gamma rays have been observed in some millisecond pulsar binaries, phenomena attributed to intrabinary shocks (IBSs). While the existing IBS model by Sim et al. (2024; Astrophysical Journal 964(2):109) successfully explains these high‐energy features observed in three pulsar binaries, it neglects particle energy loss within the shock region. We refine this IBS model to incorporate radiative losses of x‐ray emitting electrons and positrons and verify that the losses have insignificant impact on the observed LCs and spectra of the three binaries. Applying our refined IBS model to the x‐ray bright pulsar binary PSR J1723‐2837, we predict that it can be detected by the Cherenkov Telescope Array. Additionally, we propose that the long‐term x‐ray variability observed in XSS J12270‐4859 and PSR J1723‐2837 is due to changes in the shape of their IBSs. Our modeling of the x‐ray variability suggests that these IBS shape changes may alter the extinction of the companion's optical emission, potentially explaining the simultaneous optical and x‐ray variability observed in XSS J12270‐4859. We present the model results and discuss their implications.
Oxide Solid Electrolytes in Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Umair Muhammad , Zhou Shiqiang , Li Wenzheng , Rana Hafiz Talha Hasnain , Yang Jingyi , Cheng Lukuan , Li Mengrui , Yu Suzhu , Wei Jun
Published: November 2024

Solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) have re‐emerged as high‐priority materials for enhancing the safety and power density of electrochemical energy storage devices. However, several challenges, including low ionic conductivity, narrow redox windows, and interface issues, hinder the practical deployment of solid‐state batteries (SSBs). In this review, we evaluate recent advances in the design, synthesis, and analysis of oxide SSEs and identify relevant structural and stability factors, as well as dimensional design concepts, for creating oxide SSEs to meet practical application requirements. We provide an overview of the development and characteristics of oxide SSEs, then analyze bulk and ion transport based on different structures. We summarize the progress made in various synthetic approaches to oxide SSEs and discuss issues related to their stability and factors influencing ionic conductivity. Furthermore, we present the main challenges and future development directions of oxide SSBs to pave the way for the practical applications of oxide SSEs.
A Sensitive and Quick Fluorescent Sensor for the “Turn‐On” Detection and Imaging of Glutathione Based on Sulfur Quantum Dots and MnO2 Nanosheets
Authors: Hu Zhenlin , Cheng Min , Zhang Yuanyan , Zhang Leyao , Xu Huifeng , Zhu Xi
Published: November 2024

Glutathione (GSH) is one of the most abundant bioethanol antioxidants in living cells. Here, a fluorescent probe based on MnO2 nanosheets and sulfur quantum dots (SQDs) was fabricated. Because of the synergistic effect of IFE and FRET, the fluorescence from SQDs was quenched by MnO2 nanosheets. In the presence of GSH, the fluorescence of SQDs could be recovered because of the reduction of MnO2 nanosheets by GSH. The method can detect GSH in the concentration range of 5 ~ 1000 μM with the detection limit as low as 1.26 μM. This quick, easy, and cost‐effective sensor could be used for the quantification of GSH in serum samples and the imaging of GSH in Escherichia coli O157:H7.
Silver Nanoparticles and L‐Cysteine Composite Redresses Carbon Tetrachloride‐Induced Hepatotoxicity in Swiss Albino Rats
Authors: Hassan Iftekhar , Alhazza Ibrahim M. , Ebaid Hossam , Habila Mohamed A. , Al‐Tamimi Jameel , Rady Ahmed , Awad Ezzat M. , Hasan Zafrul
Published: November 2024

l‐cysteine is a versatile amino acid that plays a pivotal role in synthesizing critical molecules, enzymatic catalysis, regulation, and electron transport. It also has tremendous potential to act as an adjuvant for enhancing the biological efficacy of various nanoparticles in vivo. The current study is aimed to evaluate the protective efficacy of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) decorated with l‐cysteine in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced hepatotoxicity in the Swiss albino rats as an animal model. The rats were divided into four treatment groups: Group 1 (control without any treatments), Group 2 treated with AgNPs and l‐cysteine composite (5 mg/kg body weight on every third day), Group 3 (single dose of 1 mL/kg CCl4), and Group 4 treated with AgNPs‐l‐cysteine composite in the rats pre‐administered with CCl4. After treatment for a month, the rats were killed, and their liver and blood samples were subjected to biochemical analysis and histological examination.: Group 2 showed all the parameters comparable to control Group 1. On the contrary, CCl4‐treated, Group 3 rats showed abnormally raised liver function markers (AST and ALT) and liver toxicity markers (GGT, LDH, and total bilirubin) concomitant with disturbed oxidative stress parameters (GSH and MDA) compared to the control. However, Group 4 rats demonstrated a significant recovery from CCl4‐induced biochemical alteration in the animals as compared to Group 3. In addition, the biochemical measurements were harmonious with the histological analysis of the liver sections of the treated rats. Hence, the proposed AgNPs‐l‐cysteine composite is a potent hepato‐protecting agent in vivo that can be employed in regulating CCl4‐induced hepatotoxicity or any drug or potential pharmaceutical compound exerting similar toxicity.
Protein Condensates Unfold G‐Quadruplex Resembling a Helicase Activity
Authors: Luo Liang , Ji Shixia , Wu Qiong , Xu Guohua , Zhao Jiajing , Liu Yixiang , Chen Lang , Liu Maili , Jiang Ling , Li Conggang
Published: November 2024

Membrane‐less organelles, formed by liquid‐liquid phase separation, participate in many vital cellular processes and have received extensive attention recently. A notable form of noncanonical nucleic acid secondary structure, G‐quadruplex (G4), interacts with the scaffolding proteins in these membrane‐less organelles and becomes an integral part of this condensed phase. However, the structure and stability features of the integrated G4 remain poorly characterized. Herein, we employed NMR along with other biophysical methods to investigate the conformation of a G4 within condensates formed by a disordered protein known as DDX4N1. We discovered that the human telomeric sequence MHT24, which forms a G4 structure in a non‐condensed phase solution of protein DDX4N1, unfolds when it is within DDX4N1 condensates due to phase separation. Our findings provide an instance of a protein acquiring new functionality through phase separation process, which deepen our understanding of how protein condensates regulate G4 structure and their functions.
The Predictive Value of the CatLet Scoring System for Long‐Term Prognosis After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients With Chronic Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Wang Juan , Zhang Mingchao , Xu Mingxing , Zhou Jiayan , Lu Dasheng
Published: November 2024

Background

Coronary Artery Tree description and Lesion EvaluaTion (CatLet) angiographic scoring system is a newly developed vascular scoring for assessing the degree of coronary artery stenosis and coronary artery variability. Preliminary studies have demonstrated its superiority over the Synergy between percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX) score in predicting outcome in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This study aimed to assess the predictive value of the CatLet score in long‐term prognosis after PCI for chronic coronary syndrome (CCS).

Methods

A total of 201 patients, who were diagnosed with chronic coronary syndrome, undergoing coronary DES implantation and calculable Catlet score at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College in China were consecutively enrolled from January 2020 to June 2021. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiac events (MACEs), defined as a composite of myocardial infarction, recurrent angina, cardiac death, heart failure and ischemia‐driven revascularization, were stratified according to CatLet score tertiles: 0 ≤ CatLet_low ≤ 23(n = 66), CatLet_mid 24–43(n = 68), and CatLet_top ≥ 44(n = 67), respectively.

Results

The CatLet score predicted long‐term prognosis with a median follow‐up of 3.0 years. Of 201 patients analyzed, the rates of MACEs and cardiac death were 25.37% and 3.98%, respectively. The Kaplan–Meier curves for all endpoints showed increasing outcome events with the increasing tertiles of the CatLet score, with p‐value < 0.05 on the trend test. For MACE and cardiac death, the area under the curve (AUC) of the CatLet score was 0.744 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.668–0.820) and 0.804 (95% CI: 0.672–0.936), respectively; Alone or after adjusting for risk factors, the multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratio (95% CI)/unit higher score was 9.41 (3.18–27.85) for MACEs and 1.85 (1.20–2.84) for cardiac death, respectively.

Conclusion

The CatLet score is an independent predictor of long‐term clinical outcomes in patients with chronic coronary syndrome after percutaneous coronary intervention.
Revisiting the Efficacy and Safety of Bivalirudin in Patients With ST‐Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Insights From a Mixed Treatment Comparison Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Trials
Authors: Maqsood M. Haisum , Tamis‐Holland Jacqueline E. , Feit Frederick , Bangalore Sripal
Published: November 2024

Background

Randomized trials of bivalirudin in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) have yielded heterogeneous results.

Aims

Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of four antithrombin regimens—unfractionated heparin (UFH), bivalirudin (stopped soon after percutaneous coronary intervention [PCI]), extended bivalirudin (continued for a few hours after PCI), and combined UFH and a Gp2b3a inhibitors (GPI) in patients who present with STEMI.

Methods

A PubMed, EMBASE, and clinicaltrials.gov databases were searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of the above antithrombin in patients with STEMI. The primary outcome was net adverse cardiovascular events (NACE). The primary ischemic endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and the primary safety endpoint was major bleeding, and other endpoints included all‐cause mortality and stent thrombosis. The primary analysis compared the effect of these antithrombin regimens in reference to UFH using a mixed treatment comparison meta‐analysis.

Results

In the 14 RCTs evaluating 25,415 patients with STEMI, when compared to UFH monotherapy, extended bivalirudin lowered NACE (OR = 0.71 with 95% CI: 0.53–0.96; moderate level of confidence) driven by a significant decrease in major bleeding (OR = 0.42 with 95% CI: 0.26–0.68; high level of confidence) without any significant difference in MACE or all‐cause mortality. When compared with UFH monotherapy, UFH+GPI reduced risk of MACE (OR = 0.76 with 95% CI: 0.60–0.97; high level of confidence) but at the expense of an increase in major bleeding (OR = 1.48 with 95% CI: 1.11–1.98; high level of confidence) with no difference in NACE or all‐cause mortality. For major bleeding, extended bivalirudin infusion ranked #1, bivalirudin ranked #2, UFH monotherapy ranked #3, and combined UFH and GPI ranked #4. For NACE, extended bivalirudin infusion ranked #1, bivalirudin ranked #2, combined UFH and GPI ranked #3, and UFH monotherapy ranked #4. Cluster plots for MACE and major bleeding demonstrated that extended bivalirudin had the best balance for efficacy and safety.

Conclusions

In patients undergoing PCI for STEMI, extended bivalirudin offers the best balance for primary ischemic (MACE) and safety (major bleeding) outcomes.
Accuracy of Three‐Dimensional Neo Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Simulations With Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement in Different Mitral Phenotypes
Authors: van den Dorpel Mark M. P. , de Assis Lucas Uchoa , van Niekerk Jenna , Nuis Rutger‐Jan , Daemen Joost , Ren Claire Ben , Hirsch Alexander , Kardys Isabella , van den Branden Ben J. L. , Budde Ricardo , Van Mieghem Nicolas M.
Published: November 2024

Background

Transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) is emerging in the context of annular calcification (valve‐in‐MAC; ViMAC), failing surgical mitral annuloplasty (mitral‐valve‐in‐ring; MViR) and failing mitral bioprosthesis (mitral‐valve‐in‐valve; MViV). A notorious risk of TMVR is neo left ventricular outflow tract (neo‐LVOT) obstruction. Three‐dimensional computational models (3DCM) are derived from multi‐slice computed tomography (MSCT) and aim to predict neo‐LVOT area after TMVR. Little is known about the accuracy of these neo‐LVOT predictions for various mitral phenotypes.

Methods

Preprocedural 3DCMs were created for ViMAC, MViR and MViV cases. Throughout the cardiac cycle, neo‐LVOT dimensions were semi‐automatically calculated on the 3DCMs. We compared the predicted neo‐LVOT area on the preprocedural 3DCM with the actual neo‐LVOT as measured on the post‐procedural MSCT.

Results

Across 12 TMVR cases and examining 20%–70% of the cardiac phase, the mean difference between predicted and post‐TMVR neo‐LVOT area was −23 ± 28 mm2 for MViR, −21 ± 34 mm2 for MViV and −73 ± 61 mm2 for ViMAC. The mean intra‐class correlation coefficient for absolute agreement between predicted and post‐procedural neo‐LVOT area (throughout the whole cardiac cycle) was 0.89 (95% CI 0.82–0.94, p < 0.001) for MViR, 0.81 (95% CI 0.62–0.89, p < 0.001) for MViV, and 0.41 (95% CI 0.12–0.58, p = 0.002) for ViMAC.

Conclusions

Three‐dimensional computational models accurately predict neo‐LVOT dimensions post TMVR in MViR and MViV but not in ViMAC. Further research should incorporate device host interactions and the effect of changing hemodynamics in these simulations to enhance accuracy in all mitral phenotypes.