bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Literature Circles on Text Analysis and Reading Desire
Authors: Karatay Halit
Published: September 2017

In order to make teaching activities more appealing, different techniques and strategies have been constantly employed. In this study, the strategy of “literature circles” was utilized to improve the text-analysis skills, reading desires, and interests of prospective teachers of Turkish. “Literature circles” was not chosen to be used as the sole strategy throughout the entire weekly class hours; instead, it was used only for one class hour of every weekly four-hour classes, being complementary to and supportive of other teaching activities. The study was carried out as action research. A total of 92 third-year students in two sections of the department of Turkish Education voluntarily participated in the study. In order to improve the students’ book reviewing skills and reading interests, “literature circles” was implemented for a period of 12 weeks for one class hour. At the end of the implementation of “literature circles” when the students’ reading comprehension pre-test and post-test scores were compared, a significant difference was observed. Based on the results, it may be concluded that “literature circles” is effective in developing students’ abilities to find the theme, main idea, and keywords in a text. Besides, the students pointed out that the implementation of this strategy increased their interest and desire for communication, their self-confidence, cooperative learning, critical thinking, reading objectively without bias, and independent reading skills.
In Search of Pedagogies for Teaching Qualitative Research Online: A Vygotskian Approach
Authors: Miskovic Maja , Lyutykh Elena
Published: September 2017

Little has been said on how to teach qualitative research in general and more recently on how to do so in online courses. Drawing on the cultural-historical theory of Lev Vygotsky and his followers, we engage with theoretical tenets that inform a design of an online qualitative research course in a private liberal arts university in the United States with large enrollments of doctoral students in leadership studies. Though examination of constructivist approaches to online education that are integrated within our classroom practices, we highlight unique challenges of teaching qualitative research online and offer insights to inform instructors of similar courses with intent to continue an important conversation about complexities of teaching qualitative research.
A rare presentation of nutcracker syndrome and it’s vascular managment
Authors: Ahoury Nguessan Judicael , Fatima Adéniké Salami , Ange Patrick Ndja , Nicolas Cavez , Nzi Kouassi Paul
Published: September 2017

Nutcracker syndrome includes all the symptoms associated with the narrowing of the left renal vein (LRV). That narrowing occurs between the aorta and the Superior Mesenteric Artery (anterior) or vertebra (posterior). The symptoms are various and not specific but the patient sometimes presents hematuria with or without left flank pain. We report a case on a 42 years old woman, who was suffering from left flank pain for a long time aggravated during and after each pregnancy. The diagnosis of nutcracker syndrome was initially omitted. Abdominal pelvic Angio CT and venography were performed. We placed a percutaneous stent in the narrowed portion of the renal vein. The result was successful.
Use of the farmer’s experience variable in the generation of management zones
Authors: Schenatto Kelyn , Souza Eduardo Godoy de , Bazzi Claudio Leones , Betzek Nelson Miguel , Gavioli Alan , Beneduzzi Humberto Martins
Published: September 2017

In the spatial variability management of fields, the approach based on management zones (MZs) divides the area into sub-regions, which have spatially homogeneous topography and soil conditions. Such MZs should lead to the same potential yields. Farmers understand which areas of a field have high and low yields, and use of this knowledge may allow the identification of MZs in a field based on production history. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the application of farmer's experience to determine MZs. The study was conducted in three agricultural fields located in the west of the Paraná State in Brazil, and the MZs were generated considering three cases: a) without the use of the farmer’s experience variable; b) with the variable of farmer’s experience and the stable soil properties selected at the variable selection stage; and c) only with the farmer’s experience variable. The generated MZs were evaluated using the Variance Reduction (VR) index, Fuzziness Performance Index (FPI), Modified Partition Entropy (MPE), Smooth Index (SI), and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The study showed that the use of farmer’s experience to set MZs could be an efficient and simple tool, that it could reduce costs for the processes of setting MZs, compared to the traditional method of using stable soil variables and relief.
Productive characteristics of banana genotypes submitted to different irrigation water depths under Cerrado conditions
Authors: Silva Luciana Borges e , Nascimento Jorge Luís do , Naves Ronaldo Veloso , Braga Filho Juracy Rocha , Buso Wilian Henrique Diniz , Souza Eli Regina Barboza de
Published: September 2017

Irrigation management associated with other banana agricultural practices can provide an increased productivity and improved fruit quality. This study assessed the productive characteristics of banana genotypes under different irrigation water depths. The experiment was conducted at the experimental area of the School of Agronomy (EA/UFG) in Goiânia, GO, Brazil. The experimental design was a split-plot randomized block design, in which four irrigation water depths (30, 65, 100, and 135% of crop potential evapotranspiration, ETpc) composed the plots and three genotypes (‘FHIA 18’, ‘Grande-Naine’, and ‘Prata’) the subplots, with a spacing of 2.5 × 1.6 m. During the experimental period (first production cycle), the total precipitation was 1719.20 mm. Characterization of genotype development and yield was performed with the following assessments: bunch mass (kg), number of hands, stalk mass (kg), fruit diameter of the second hand (mm), fruit length of the second hand (cm), mass of the second hand (kg), number of fruits of the second hand, total number of fruits, and number of damaged fruits. The cultivar ‘FHIA 18’, differently from the others, showed a significant response to irrigation water depths on productivity. In the genotypes ‘Grande-Naine’ and ‘Prata’, an influence of irrigation was observed only on external and visual characteristics of fruit (diameter, length, and number of damaged fruits). In the genotype ‘Prata’, the irrigation water depth of 965 mm allowed fruit production with a larger diameter. Fruit length in the genotype ‘Prata’ increased linearly as water depth increased. The use of irrigation promoted a reduction in the number of damaged fruits in the genotypes ‘FHIA 18’ and ‘Grande-Naine’.
Soybean yield and yield components affected by the mycorrhiza and bradyrhizobium at different rates of starter nitrogen fertilizer
Authors: Aboutalebian Mohammad Ali , Malmir Masoumeh
Published: September 2017

In order to study interaction between mycorrhiza and bradyrhizobium on yield of soybean under different amounts of starter nitrogen fertilizer, a field experiment was conducted at the agricultural research station, Bu-Ali Sina University in 2015 growing season. A factorial experiment based on randomized complete block design was arranged with three replications. Experiment factors covering three levels of starter nitrogen of 0, 30 and 60 kg ha-1, bradyrhizobiumin two level of inoculated and non-inoculated and mycorrhiza including application and non-application levels. Results indicated that plant height, number of leaves per plant, yield and yield components and biological yield and mycorrhizal symbiosis percent affected by interaction of studied factors significantly. Maximum number of pod per plant achieved from combination of 30 kg Nitrogen and bradyrhizobium. Also both bio-fertilizer was able to increase number of pod per plant. Maximum 1000 seed weight obtained from inoculation of plants with bradyrhizobium and mycorrhiza simultaneously with no nitrogen utilization. Application of 60 kg ha-1 nitrogen caused to decreased mycorrhizal symbiosis about 20.22 percent in comparison with no use of starter fertilizer. Application bradyrhizobium and mycorrhiza under the application of 30 kg ha-1 nitrogen, produced the highest grain yield (511.67 g m-2) and biological yield (1223.16 g m-2).
Bioactive compounds in different acerola fruit cultivares
Authors: Mariano-Nasser Flávia Aparecida De Carvalho , Nasser Maurício Dominguez , Furlaneto Karina Aparecida , Ramos Juliana Arruda , Vieites Rogério Lopes , Pagliarini Maximiliano Kawahata
Published: September 2017

The increased consumption of acerola in Brazil was triggered because it is considered as a functional food mainly for its high ascorbic acid content, but the fruit also has high nutritional value, high levels of phenolic compounds, total antioxidant activity, anthocyanins and carotenoids in its composition. The objective was to evaluate the chemical, physical-chemical and antioxidant activity of eight varieties of acerola tree. The acerolas used in the research were the harvest 2015, 8 varieties: BRS 235 - Apodi, Mirandópolis, Waldy - CATI 30, BRS 238 - Frutacor, Okinawa, BRS 236 - Cereja, Olivier and BRS 237 - Roxinha, from the Active Bank Germplasm APTA Regional Alta Paulista in Adamantina - SP. Avaluated the following attributes: pH, titratable acidity, soluble solids, reducing sugar, instrumental color, ascorbic acid, total phenolics, flavonoids and antioxidant activity. The design was completely randomized, 8 varieties and 3 replications of 20 fruits each. Acerola fruit of the analyzed varieties prove to be good sources of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity, ensuring its excellent nutritional quality relative to combat free radicals. The variety BRS 236 - Cereja presents higher ascorbic acid content, antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds, and the lowest value for flavonoid, which was higher than the other cultivars, especially Olivier and Waldy CATI-30.
Chitooligosaccharide for piglets: effects on performance, viscera and intestinal morphometry
Authors: Oliveira Eduardo Raele , Silva Caio Abércio da , Lozano Arturo Pardo , Silva Elisângela Olegário da , Novais Aliny Ketilim , Gavioli David Fernandes , Pereira Junior Marcino , Frederico Giovani , Castro-Gómez Raúl Jorge Hérnan , Calliari Caroline Maria
Published: September 2017

The objective of this study was to evaluate the dose-response effect of a chitooligosaccharide (COS) produced by Universidade Estadual de Londrina over performance, diarrhea episodes, visceral characteristics and morphometry. A total of 72 Pen Ar Lan® piglets were weaned at 23 days and 7.51 ± 1.35 kg of BW. The treatment was a basic diet plus inclusion of 0, 50, 100, or 150 ppm of COS (100 mg/kg). For the visceral and morphometric evaluation, 24 animals were slaughtered at 31 days of age with 11.01 ± 1.25 kg of BW. No regression effect over the performance or diarrhea prevalence was observed. Higher doses of COS led to higher absolute values for large intestine weight, villus height in the jejunum and crypt depth in the jejunum and ileum; the villus/crypt ratio in the ileum was higher until the level of 100 ppm COS. More lesions were observed in the intestinal epithelium along with a higher total number of lymphocytes and eosinophils in the duodenum. High numbers of eosinophils were observed in the ileum when a higher level of COS was used. In general, increasing levels of COS led to better intestinal morphometry and activated somatic cells in the lamina propria of the piglet intestine; however, no influence was observed in the productive performance of these animals. Considering all studied parameters, the COS level of 100 ppm was the most promising under these experimental conditions.
Commercial Acetic Acid: A Potential Regenerative Agent for Chronic Cutaneous Wounds? A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Al-Khalisy Ma’an , Al-Imam Ahmed
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND: The acetic acid in the form of vinegar has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. Acetic acid is reported to be used for medicinal uses at 1-5% concentration. The mechanism behind the regenerative potential of commercial acetic acid has not been fully explored.MATERIALS & METHODS: Twelve Iraqi patients with chronic skin ulceration were admitted and managed at a Dermatology clinic. Patients included men (7) and women (5) of diverse age groups (23-81 years). The aetiology behind the skin ulceration included; diabetic ulcer, decubitus ulcer, and others induced by trauma, bone fracture, insect bites and substance abuse. All patients were strictly treated with commercial acetic acid (at 4-6% concertation) and followed-up in time until the complete resolution of their cutaneous ulcerations.RESULTS & DISCUSSION: This study is quasi-experimental; two cases are discussed thoroughly; the first case belongs to a Caucasian male aged 26 years with schizophrenia and addiction towards psychoactive substances; he developed a refractory ulcer in left cubital fossa following an intravenous injection. The second case belongs to a middle age male patient, hypertensive otherwise healthy; he had a displaced intra-articular fracture affecting the distal end of the left radius; it was surgically treated with an internal fixation which was incriminated for the development of an ulcer over the volar aspect of left forearm overlying the internal fixation site. Local disinfection with commercial apple vinegar was very effective in restoring the skin integrity with minimal scarring.CONCLUSION: The regenerative potential of acetic acid has been marginally covered in the literature. The presented cases indicate a regenerative potential or at least an accelerant role in the process of cutaneous wound healing and repair.
Les conceptions des futurs enseignants du secondaire en matière d’évaluation : entre un accord de principe et une vision limitée de l’évaluation formative
Authors: Fagnant Annick , Goffin Christelle
Published: September 2017

S’appuyant sur un questionnaire soumis à l’entrée en formation initiale, l’étude cherche à cerner la façon dont les futurs enseignants du secondaire perçoivent les liens entre évaluation et apprentissage. Elle s’intéresse aux différentes fonctions de l’évaluation, aux différentes formes d’évaluation formative que les futurs enseignants ont rencontrées dans leur parcours scolaire et à la façon dont ils peuvent imaginer des modalités d’évaluation variées. Alors que les résultats des questionnaires fermés montrent que les participants soutiennent une vision élargie de l’évaluation formative, les questions ouvertes témoignent quant à elles d’une vision étroite dans laquelle le versant régulation n’est pas suffisamment présent et où les élèves semblent peu impliqués. Les expériences vécues par les futurs enseignants au cours de leur scolarité semblent limitées et ils imaginent difficilement qu’il soit possible d’intégrer pleinement l’évaluation aux situations d’apprentissage.
Effets du Réseau d’enseignement prioritaire à Genève : comment mesurer les effets d’un dispositif implanté en plusieurs phases ?
Authors: Soussi Anne , Pini Gianreto
Published: September 2017

Les précédentes évaluations n’ont pas permis de mettre en évidence des effets de la politique d’éducation prioritaire implantée à Genève (Réseau d’enseignement prioritaire) sur les compétences des élèves, pas plus en les comparant avec celles d’élèves scolarisés dans d’autres établissements ni même d’établissements présentant des caractéristiques sociodémographiques similaires n’ayant pas bénéficié du dispositif. Dans cet article, nous allons explorer une voie inspirée de l’analyse des séries temporelles afin de mesurer les effets d’un dispositif d’éducation prioritaire mis en place de manière progressive et de tenir ainsi compte du temps d’exposition différent des élèves. La méthode utilisée consiste à considérer pour chaque établissement quatre moments différents. Ce plan expérimental permet de répondre aux questions suivantes : Existe-t-il une évolution positive des résultats des élèves après l’introduction du dispositif ? Qu’en est-il deux ans plus tard ?
Implementasi Perjanjian Kemitraan Ekonomi Indonesia-Jepang: Analisis dari Perspektif Indonesia
Authors: Hadi Syamsul
Published: September 2017

This article describes the implementation of Indonesia-Japan Economic Partnership (IJEPA) in four main sectors: trade, investment, manpower, and capacity building from the Indonesian perspective. It finds that in its implementation, IJEPA suffers some obstacles that hampers Indonesia’s expectation, especially in manpower and capacity building cooperation. In trade, Japan’s tariff reduction under the IJEPA does not necessarily lead to Indonesia’s automatic market penetration to Japanese market as the actual obstacle is not on tariff barriers, but non-tariff barriers. Exception could be seen in investment sector, which has shown a relatively good progress, especially on Japanese increasing interests as well as its actual investment in various sectors in Indonesia.
Restraint of presynaptic protein levels by Wnd/DLK signaling mediates synaptic defects associated with the kinesin-3 motor Unc-104
Authors: Li Jiaxing , Zhang Yao V , Asghari Adib Elham , Stanchev Doychin T , Xiong Xin , Klinedinst Susan , Soppina Pushpanjali , Jahn Thomas Robert , Hume Richard I , Rasse Tobias M , Collins Catherine A
Published: September 2017

The kinesin-3 family member Unc-104/KIF1A is required for axonal transport of many presynaptic components to synapses, and mutation of this gene results in synaptic dysfunction in mice, flies and worms. Our studies at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction indicate that many synaptic defects in unc-104-null mutants are mediated independently of Unc-104’s transport function, via the Wallenda (Wnd)/DLK MAP kinase axonal damage signaling pathway. Wnd signaling becomes activated when Unc-104’s function is disrupted, and leads to impairment of synaptic structure and function by restraining the expression level of active zone (AZ) and synaptic vesicle (SV) components. This action concomitantly suppresses the buildup of synaptic proteins in neuronal cell bodies, hence may play an adaptive role to stresses that impair axonal transport. Wnd signaling also becomes activated when pre-synaptic proteins are over-expressed, suggesting the existence of a feedback circuit to match synaptic protein levels to the transport capacity of the axon.
BMPs direct sensory interneuron identity in the developing spinal cord using signal-specific not morphogenic activities
Authors: Andrews Madeline G , del Castillo Lorenzo M , Ochoa-Bolton Eliana , Yamauchi Ken , Smogorzewski Jan , Butler Samantha J
Published: September 2017

The Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) family reiteratively signals to direct disparate cellular fates throughout embryogenesis. In the developing dorsal spinal cord, multiple BMPs are required to specify sensory interneurons (INs). Previous studies suggested that the BMPs act as concentration-dependent morphogens to direct IN identity, analogous to the manner in which sonic hedgehog patterns the ventral spinal cord. However, it remains unresolved how multiple BMPs would cooperate to establish a unified morphogen gradient. Our studies support an alternative model: BMPs have signal-specific activities directing particular IN fates. Using chicken and mouse models, we show that the identity, not concentration, of the BMP ligand directs distinct dorsal identities. Individual BMPs promote progenitor patterning or neuronal differentiation by their activation of different type I BMP receptors and distinct modulations of the cell cycle. Together, this study shows that a ‘mix and match’ code of BMP signaling results in distinct classes of sensory INs.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of aquaporin gene family in Beta vulgaris
Authors: Kong Weilong , Yang Shaozong , Wang Yulu , Bendahmane Mohammed , Fu Xiaopeng
Published: September 2017

Aquaporins (AQPs) are essential channel proteins that execute multi-functions throughout plant growth and development, including water transport, uncharged solutes uptake, stress response, and so on. Here, we report the first genome-wide identification and characterization AQP (BvAQP) genes in sugar beet (Beta vulgaris), an important crop widely cultivated for feed, for sugar production and for bioethanol production. Twenty-eight sugar beet AQPs (BvAQPs) were identified and assigned into five subfamilies based on phylogenetic analyses: seven of plasma membrane (PIPs), eight of tonoplast (TIPs), nine of NOD26-like (NIPs), three of small basic (SIPs), and one of x-intrinsic proteins (XIPs). BvAQP genes unevenly mapped on all chromosomes, except on chromosome 4. Gene structure and motifs analyses revealed that BvAQP have conserved exon-intron organization and that they exhibit conserved motifs within each subfamily. Prediction of BvAQPs functions, based on key protein domains conservation, showed a remarkable difference in substrate specificity among the five subfamilies. Analyses of BvAQPs expression, by mean of RNA-seq, in different plant organs and in response to various abiotic stresses revealed that they were ubiquitously expressed and that their expression was induced by heat and salt stresses. These results provide a reference base to address further the function of sugar beet aquaporins and to explore future applications for plants growth and development improvements as well as in response to environmental stresses.
Health and Economic Outcomes of Offering Buprenorphine in Homeless Shelters in Massachusetts
Authors: Chatterjee Avik , Stewart Emily A. , Assoumou Sabrina A. , Chrysanthopoulou Stavroula A. , Zwick Hana , Harris Rebecca Arden , O’Dea Ryan , Schackman Bruce R. , White Laura F. , Linas Benjamin P.
Published: October 2024

Importance

Overdose is the leading cause of death among people experiencing homelessness (PEH), but engagement in medication treatment is low in this population. Shelter-based buprenorphine may be a strategy for increasing initiation and retention on lifesaving medications.

Objective

To estimate clinical outcomes and conduct an economic analysis of statewide shelter-based opioid treatment in Massachusetts.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This economic evaluation study in Massachusetts used a cohort state-transition simulation model. Two cohorts were modeled starting in 2013, including (1) a closed cohort of a fixed population of PEH with history of high-risk opioid use over their lifetimes and (2) an open cohort in which membership could change over time, allowing assessment of population-level trends over a 10-year period. Data analysis occurred from January 2023 to April 2024.

Exposures

Model exposures included (1) no shelter-based buprenorphine (status quo) and (2) offering buprenorphine in shelters statewide.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes included overdose deaths, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained, and health care and modified societal perspective costs. Sensitivity analyses were conducted on key parameters.

Results

In the closed cohort analysis of 13 800 PEH (mean [SD] age, 40.4 [13.1] years; 8749 male [63.4%]), shelter-based buprenorphine was associated with an additional 65.4 person-weeks taking buprenorphine over an individual’s lifetime compared with status quo. Shelter-based buprenorphine was cost saving when compared with the status quo, with a discounted lifetime cost savings from the health sector perspective of $1300 per person, and 0.2 additional discounted QALYs per person and 0.9 additional life-years per person. In the population-level simulation, 254 overdose deaths were averted over the 10-year period with the shelter-based buprenorphine strategy compared with the status quo (a 9.2% reduction of overdose deaths among PEH in Massachusetts). Overdose-related and other health care utilization undiscounted costs decreased by $3.0 million and $66.4 million, respectively. Shelter-based opioid treatment generated $44.7 million in additional medication and clinical costs, but saved $69.4 million in overdose and other health costs.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this economic evaluation of clinical and economic outcomes among PEH, shelter-based buprenorphine was associated with fewer overdose deaths and was cost saving. These findings suggest that broad rollout of shelter-based buprenorphine may be an important tool in addressing the overdose crisis.
Elucidating the Supramolecular Interaction of Positively Supercharged Fluorescent Protein with Anionic Phthalocyanines
Authors: Saarinen Sharon , Khan Ramsha , Patrian Marta , Fuenzalida‐Werner Juan Pablo , Costa Rubén D. , Zimcik Petr , Novakova Veronika , Ruoko Tero‐Petri , Tkachenko Nikolai V. , Anaya‐Plaza Eduardo , Kostiainen Mauri A.
Published: October 2024

Developing bioinspired materials to convert sunlight into electricity efficiently is paramount for sustainable energy production. Fluorescent proteins are promising candidates as photoactive materials due to their high fluorescence quantum yield and absorption extinction coefficients in aqueous media. However, developing artificial bioinspired photosynthetic systems requires a detailed understanding of molecular interactions and energy transfer mechanisms in the required operating conditions. Here, the supramolecular self‐assembly and photophysical properties of fluorescent proteins complexed with organic dyes are investigated in aqueous media. Supercharged mGreenLantern protein, mutated to have a charge of +22, is complexed together with anionic zinc phthalocyanines having 4 or 16 carboxylate groups. The structural characterization reveals a strong electrostatic interaction between the moieties, accompanied by partial conformational distortion of the protein structure, yet without compromising the mGreenLantern chromophore integrity as suggested by the lack of emission features related to the neutral form of the chromophore. The self‐assembled biohybrid shows a total quenching of protein fluorescence, in favor of an energy transfer process from the protein to the phthalocyanine, as demonstrated by fluorescence lifetime and ultrafast transient absorption measurements. These results provide insight into the rich photophysics of fluorescent protein–dye complexes, anticipating their applicability as water‐based photoactive materials.
Heterogeneous Structured Nanomaterials from Carbon and Related Materials
Authors: Yin Yankun , Hou Xuyuan , Wu Bingze , Dong Jiajun , Yao Mingguang
Published: October 2024

Heterogeneous structured nanomaterials can be considered as a class of advanced materials that integrate multiple phases, different elements, or components into a single nanoscale structure. For such materials, the different phases, components and their interactions are highly variable and tunable, which open a new avenue for the creation of new materials with unique properties unattainable by the corresponding single‐phase materials. In this review, heterogeneous structured nanomaterials constructed by different carbon allotropes are focused. Due to the unique bonding ability of carbon element, the diverse heterogeneous structures constructed by carbon structures with different dimensions possess distinctive structures and exhibit fascinating properties, providing unprecedented opportunities for various application fields, including electronic/optoelectronic devices, superhard materials, etc. This review provides a systematic elaboration for carbon‐based heterogeneous structured nanomaterials, highlighting their dimension‐dependent structural diversity, unique properties, and application prospects.
Pulling the Rug Out from Under: Biomechanical Microenvironment Remodeling for Induction of Hepatic Stellate Cell Quiescence
Authors: Wang Haobo , You Qing , Kang Bei , Jing Huaqing , Shi Zhiyuan , Krizkova Sona , Heger Zbynek , Adam Vojtech , Chen Xiaoyuan , Li Nan
Published: October 2024

Hepatic fibrosis progresses concomitantly with a variety of biomechanical alternations, especially increased liver stiffness. These biomechanical alterations have long been considered as pathological consequences. Recently, growing evidence proposes that these alternations result in the fibrotic biomechanical microenvironment, which drives the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Here, an inorganic ascorbic acid‐oxidase (AAO) mimicking nanozyme loaded with liquiritigenin (LQ) is developed to trigger remodeling of the fibrotic biomechanical microenvironment. The AAO mimicking nanozyme is able to consume intracellular ascorbic acid, thereby impeding collagen I deposition by reducing its availability. Simultaneously, LQ inhibits the transcription of lysyl oxidase like 2 (LOXL2), thus impeding collagen I crosslinking. Through its synergistic activities, the prepared nanosystem efficiently restores the fibrotic biomechanical microenvironment to a near‐normal physiological condition, promoting the quiescence of HSCs and regression of fibrosis. This strategy of remodeling the fibrotic biomechanical microenvironment, akin to “pulling the rug out from under”, effectively treats hepatic fibrosis in mice, thereby highlighting the importance of tissue biomechanics and providing a potential approach to improve hepatic fibrosis treatment.
Boolean Computation in Single‐Transistor Neuron
Authors: Li Hanxi , Hu Jiayang , Zhang Yishu , Chen Anzhe , Lin Li , Chen Ge , Chen Yance , Chai Jian , He Qian , Wang Hailiang , Huang Shiman , Zhou Jiachao , Xu Yang , Yu Bin
Published: October 2024

Brain neurons exhibit far more sophisticated and powerful information‐processing capabilities than the simple integrators commonly modeled in neuromorphic computing. A biological neuron can in fact efficiently perform Boolean algebra, including linear nonseparable operations. Traditional logic circuits require more than a dozen transistors combined as NOT, AND, and OR gates to implement XOR. Lacking biological competency, artificial neural networks require multilayered solutions to exercise XOR operation. Here, it is shown that a single‐transistor neuron, harnessing the intrinsic ambipolarity of graphene and ionic filamentary dynamics, can enable in situ reconfigurable multiple Boolean operations from linear separable to linear nonseparable in an ultra‐compact design. By leveraging the spatiotemporal integration of inputs, bio‐realistic spiking‐dependent Boolean computation is fully realized, rivaling the efficiency of a human brain. Furthermore, a soft‐XOR‐based neural network via algorithm‐hardware co‐design, showcasing substantial performance improvement, is demonstrated. These results demonstrate how the artificial neuron, in the ultra‐compact form of a single transistor, may function as a powerful platform for Boolean operations. These findings are anticipated to be a starting point for implementing more sophisticated computations at the individual transistor neuron level, leading to super‐scalable neural networks for resource‐efficient brain‐inspired information processing.
Natural SNP Variation in GbOSM1 Promotor Enhances Verticillium Wilt Resistance in Cotton
Authors: Wang Guilin , Zhang Dayong , Wang Haitang , Kong Jinmin , Chen Zhiguo , Ruan Chaofeng , Deng Chaoyang , Zheng Qihang , Guo Zhan , Liu Hanqiao , Li Weixi , Wang Xinyu , Guo Wangzhen
Published: October 2024

Osmotin is classified as the pathogenesis‐related protein 5 group. However, its molecular mechanism involved in plant disease resistance remains largely unknown. Here, a Verticillium wilt (VW) resistance‐related osmotin gene is identified in Gossypium barbadense (Gb), GbOSM1. GbOSM1 is preferentially expressed in the roots of disease‐resistant G. barbadense acc. Hai7124 and highly induced by Verticillium dahliae (Vd). Silencing GbOSM1 reduces the VW resistance of Hai7124, while overexpression of GbOSM1 in disease‐susceptible G. hirsutum improves tolerance. GbOSM1 predominantly localizes in tonoplasts, while it relocates to the apoplast upon exposure to osmotic stress or Vd infection. GbOSM1 confers VW resistance by hydrolyzing cell wall polysaccharides of Vd and activating plant immune pathways. Natural variation contributes to a differential CCAAT/CCGAT elements in the OSM1 promoter in cotton accessions. All G. hirsutum (Gh) exhibit the CCAAT haplotype, while there are two haplotypes of CCAAT/CCGAT in G. barbadense, with higher expression and stronger VW resistance in CCGAT haplotype. A NFYA5 transcription factor binds to the CCAAT element of GhOSM1 promoter and inhibits its transcription. Silencing GhNFYA5 results in higher GhOSM1 expression and enhances VW resistance. These results broaden the insights into the functional mechanisms of osmotin and provide an effective strategy to breed VW‐resistant cotton.
Blue Light Controlled Supramolecular Soft Robotics of Phenylazothiazole Amphiphiles for Rapid Macroscopic Actuations
Authors: Chau Ming‐Hin , Wong Wai‐Ki , Kajitani Takashi , Leung Franco King‐Chi
Published: October 2024

Nature preprograms sophisticated processes in operating molecular machines at the nanoscale, amplifying the molecular motion across multiple length‐scales, and controlling movements in living organisms. Supramolecular soft robotics serve as a new alternative to hard robotics, are able to transform and amplify collective motions of the supramolecularly assembled molecular machines in attaining macroscopic motions, upon photoirradiation. By taking advantage of oriented supramolecular macroscopic soft scaffold, here the first rapid macroscopic movements of supramolecular robotic materials driven by visible light are presented. Head‐tail amphiphilic structure is designed with the phenylazothiazole motif as the photoswitching core. Unidirectionally aligned nanostructures of the amphiphilic phenylazothiazoles are controlled by non‐invasive blue light irradiation and bends toward the light source, demonstrating a fast macroscopic actuation of supramolecular robotic systems (up to 17° s−1) in aqueous media. Through meticulous X‐ray diffraction and electron microscopy analyzes, macroscopic actuation mechanism is illustrated in a tight relation to molecular geometric transformations upon photoisomerization. By elucidating the key macroscopic actuation parameters, this paves the way for the next generation design of supramolecular soft robotic systems with enhanced biomimetic actuating functions.
Bi‐Functional Materials for Sulfur Cathode and Lithium Metal Anode of Lithium–Sulfur Batteries: Status and Challenges
Authors: Dou Ying , Guo Junling , Shao Junke , Duan Jiaozi , Liang Huan , Cheng Xing , He Yanbing , Liu Jinping
Published: October 2024

Over the past decade, the most fundamental challenges faced by the development of lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) and their effective solutions have been extensively studied. To further transfer LSBs from the research phase into the industrial phase, strategies to improve the performance of LSBs under practical conditions are comprehensively investigated. These strategies can simultaneously optimize the sulfur cathode and Li‐metal anode to account for their interactions under practical conditions, without involving complex preparation or costly processes. Therefore, “two‐in‐one” strategies, which meet the above requirements because they can simultaneously improve the performance of both electrodes, are widely investigated. However, their development faces several challenges, such as confused design ideas for bi‐functional sites and simplex evaluation methods (i. e. evaluating strategies based on their bi‐functionality only). To date, as few reviews have focused on these challenges, the modification direction of these strategies is indistinct, hindering further developments in the field. In this review, the advances achieved in “two‐in‐one” strategies and categorizing them based on their design ideas are summarized. These strategies are then comprehensively evaluated in terms of bi‐functionality, large‐scale preparation, impact on energy density, and economy. Finally, the challenges still faced by these strategies and some research prospects are discussed.
Boosting the Strength and Toughness of Polymer Blends via Ligand‐Modulated MOFs
Authors: Kuang Tairong , Guo Hongxin , Guo Wei , Liu Wenxian , Li Wei , Saeb Mohammad Reza , Vatankhah‐Varnosfaderani Mohammad , Sheiko Sergei S.
Published: October 2024

Mechanically robust and tough polymeric materials are in high demand for applications ranging from flexible electronics to aerospace. However, achieving both high toughness and strength in polymers remains a significant challenge due to their inherently contradictory nature. Here, a universal strategy for enhancing the toughness and strength of polymer blends using ligand‐modulated metal–organic framework (MOF) nanoparticles is presented, which are engineered to have adjustable hydrophilicity and lipophilicity by varying the types and ratios of ligands. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations demonstrate that these nanoparticles can effectively regulate the interfaces between chemically distinct polymers based on their amphiphilicity. Remarkably, a mere 0.1 wt.% of MOF nanoparticles with optimized amphiphilicity (ML‐MOF(5:5)) delivered ≈1.1‐ and ≈34.1‐fold increase in strength and toughness of poly (lactic acid) (PLA)/poly (butylene succinate) (PBS) blend, respectively. Moreover, these amphiphilicity‐tailorable MOF nanoparticles universally enhance the mechanical properties of various polymer blends, such as polypropylene (PP)/polyethylene (PE), PP/polystyrene (PS), PLA/poly (butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT), and PLA/polycaprolactone (PCL)/PBS. This simple universal method offers significant potential for strengthening and toughening various polymer blends.
Monolayer MoS2 and WS2 for Vertical Circular‐ Polarized‐Light‐Emitting Diode: from Fundamental Understanding to Device Architecture
Authors: Swain Gayatri , Choi Gyu Jin , Gwag Jin Seog , Kim Youngsoo
Published: October 2024

Light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) have revolutionized lighting and displays due to their numerous advantages over conventional lighting mechanisms. Moreover, the directional nature of luminescent materials has spurred significant advancements in the development of circularly polarized LEDs, which hold transformative potential for applications in biomedical imaging, liquid crystal displays, spintronics, and valleytronics. The performance of circularly polarized LEDs mainly depends on the emitter material, which is this study's focus. In particular, semiconducting‐phase 2D monolayer MoS2 and WS2 are attractive emitter‐material candidates owing to their bandgap versatility, high carrier mobility, high exciton binding energy, polarized‐light‐emission properties, and unique spin–valley coupling. Several works have examined the fundamental light‐emission properties of monolayer MoS2 and WS2 from the perspectives of optoelectronic concepts, material fabrication, and device construction. This paper presents approaches to control, tune, and enhance these properties of monolayer MoS2 and WS2. Possible guidelines for monolayer‐material synthesis (top‐down and bottom‐up approaches) and device engineering of vertically stacked MoS2 and WS2 are presented. Finally, the review considers the material topological characteristics, outlines the challenges and potential of monolayer MoS2 and WS2 for developing high‐performance commercial circularly polarized LED devices, and proposes a technological roadmap for leveraging other monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide systems in optoelectronic devices.
A Revised High‐Throughput Screening Model on Oxygen Reduction Reaction Over Dual Atom Catalysts Based on the Axial Pre‐Adsorption and O2 Adsorption
Authors: Li Danyang , Sun Panpan , Xu Haoxiang , Yun Jimmy , Cao Dapeng
Published: October 2024

Dual‐atom catalysts (DACs) often exhibit superior electrocatalytic activity, due to their versatile combinations and synergistic effects. However, the neglect of both dynamic axial adsorption of the active site upon working potential and the reactant adsorption as a rate‐determining step hinders the establishment of an accurate high‐throughput screening strategy. Here, the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) of 42 kinds of 3d–3d metal DACs by density functional theory (DFT) calculations are systematiclly investigated and demonstrated that the ORR kinetics can be limited by O2* adsorption besides the proton–electron transfer step and the active center of DACs may be reconstructed by axial pre‐adsorption of intermediates under working potential. Therefore, the ORR volcano plot is proposed by using both the O2* and OH* adsorption as activity descriptors. Then, a high‐throughput screening method is constructed and 38 promising ORR DACs are screened out from 267 DACs containing 3d, 4d, or 5d metals. Importantly, the previously unexplored MnCoN6 DAC is also experimentally synthesized, and exhibits ultrahigh ORR activity outperforming Pt/C, perfectly matching with theoretical prediction. In short, this work not only proposes a volcano plot‐based high‐throughput screening method but also provides a proof‐of‐concept of experimental verification of theoretical prediction to heuristically design electrocatalysts for other reactions.
Upfront surgery, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, or neoadjuvant chemotherapy for rectal cancer with lateral lymph node metastasis: A multicenter MRI and lateral lymph node dissection study
Authors: Miura Takuya , Kawai Kazushige , Fujita Hiromasa , Kazama Shinsuke , Ueno Hideki , Kinugasa Yusuke , Sakamoto Kazuhiro , Kobayashi Hirotoshi , Hakamada Kenichi , Ajioka Yoichi
Published: October 2024

Aim

The purpose was to clarify the oncological outcomes of rectal cancer (RC) with lateral lymph node metastasis (LLNM) on high‐resolution MRI (HRMRI), considering preoperative treatments.

Methods

Two hundred and twelve patients, from 13 hospitals, diagnosed with RC with lateral lymph node dissection (LLND), between 2017 and 2019, were prospectively registered. LLNM was defined as a short‐axis size ≥5 mm. Ultimately, this study included 102 patients. Upfront surgery (Upfront), chemoradiotherapy (CRT), and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) were performed at each institution's discretion.

Results

Sixty‐six (64.7%) had mesorectal fascia (MRF) involvement, 35 (34.3%) had extramural venous invasion, and 33 (32.4%) had bilateral LLNMs. A positive radial margin (RM1) was observed in nine patients (8.8%), and 35 (34.3%) had pathological LLNM (pLLNM). Overall, 3‐year relapse‐free survival (3yRFS) and local recurrence‐free survival (3yLRFS) were 69.6% and 92.9%. Upfront 3yRFS (N = 54), CRT (N = 23) and NAC (N = 25) constituted 62.9%, 82.6%, and 72.0%; 3yLRFS was 92.4%, 100%, and 88.0%. RM1 and pLLNM were significantly associated with LRFS (RM0 vs. RM1, 3yLRFS 96.7% vs. 50.0%; pLLNM negative vs. positive, 97.0% vs. 84.7%). 3yRFS Upfront non‐MRF (N = 21), post CRT non‐MRF (N = 15), and post NAC non‐MRF (N = 14) were 61.9%, 86.7%, and 100%; 3yLRFS was 90.2%, 100%, and 100%.

Conclusions

Good local control of Upfront LLND for RC with LLNM was shown, but multidisciplinary treatments were required. CRT followed by surgery was preferable for RC with LLNM, but a radiation‐sparing strategy is promising for post NAC non‐MRF.
The Safe Drinking Water Act at 50: Another Identity Crisis
Authors: Tracy Mehan G.
Published: October 2024

Key Takeaways

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) of 1974 (amended in 1986, 1996, and 2018) shows the tension between purity and safety, cost and benefits, and balancing risks, down to today's policy debates.

Following the 1996 amendments, regulatory successes include arsenic, radionuclides, filter backwash recycling, total coliform, disinfectants and disinfection byproducts, and enhanced surface water treatment.

With recent drinking water standards, such as the 2024 per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances rule, based on very low detection levels, the SDWA continues to generate intense public dialogue.
Paragangliomas and syringomyelia in Tetralogy of Fallot—A case report and literature review
Authors: Guha Anasuya , Antonova Petra , Zelinka Tomas , Vicha Ales , Pacak Karel , Chovanec Martin
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

Pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect and major aortopulmonary collateral arteries, paragangliomas, and syringomyelia are uncommon diseases. Furthermore, in the absence of any genetic link and with less than five reported adult patients surviving unrepaired rare form of Tetralogy of Fallot, our case shows noteworthiness. The possibility of definitive treatment of these conditions is rendered unsafe due to this persistent defect. Thus, management and ongoing survival of this patient remains complex and challenging.
Complex Hybrid Governance in the South American Borderlands: The Agency of Grassroots Actors in Transforming Violent Conflicts
Authors: Ferreira Marcos Alan , Villa Rafael D. , Braga Camila M.
Published: October 2024

This article examines the role of grassroots actors in regions of violent conflict where competing governance systems exists. Specifically, it focuses on those living in the borderlands of South America, where alternative forms of governance may be created in response to violence between state and criminal organizations. In this context, how can grassroots actors overcome protracted armed violence and establish new, legitimate forms of social governance? To explore this question, our methodology employs data triangulation, combining literature, news reports, and fieldwork data collected in two violence‐prone territories: the borderlands of Cúcuta (Colombia)/Táchira state (Venezuela) and Pedro Juan Caballero (Paraguay)/Ponta Porã (Brazil). We argue that grassroots actors can develop innovative and alternative governance structures that differ from those of the state and criminal groups. This research also contributes to the ongoing discussion about the agency of local actors in violent conflicts between nonstate actors and the state. The findings demonstrate that grassroots actors in violent border regions can actively transform conflicts and build peace, particularly in areas such as migration, security, health, and education.
Auditors’ Trust in Audit Committees and Audit Quality
Authors: Adelopo Ismail , Cheung Kwok Yip , Zaman Mahbub
Published: October 2024

In light of global advancements in corporate governance, it is imperative for external auditors and audit committees to engage in communication and interactions to ensure that external audits are conducted to a high standard and quality. While many studies report that audit committee expertise, diligence, and independence are associated with monitoring, often they do not provide explanation of the mechanisms through which these happen. There is limited research on how external auditors’ trust in audit committees affects their interactions and therefore audit quality. This paper examines external auditors’ trust and their interactions with audit committees. We find that external auditors’ perceptions of audit committee members’ competence, goodwill, and integrity shape their trust in audit committees. Overall, our findings suggest that auditors’ trust in audit committees enhances their perception of the quality of their interactions, affects information sharing and the conduct of the audit, and thus helps to improve the quality of auditing.