bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PRECIPITAÇÃO E PERDA DE SEDIMENTOS NA ENCOSTA ITAGIBA, ZONA NORTE DE SANTA MARIA - RS
Authors: Marques Rodrigo Diniz , Werlang Mauro Kumpfer
Published: November 2017

Occupation in risk areas in the Brazilian cities happens, mainly, because of social segregation and space management. In the city of Santa Maria, occupation in risk areas also occurs. One of these areas is the Itagiba slope, located in the neighborhood of Chácara das Flores, nor- thern zone of the city. The route of the Santa Maria-Uruguaiana railroad, designed by the Belgium Consortium, in 1890, has lead to changes in the north side of Kennedy Town. By modifying the conformation of the landscape, the sectioning of the slope changed the topography. In this sense, this work aims to contribute to the understanding of the erosive process in the slope and establish the relationship between precipitation and total loss of sediment. Aiming at this goal, the volumes of total precipitation and the amount of sediment removed in each event of precipitation were monitored over a period of two years. For this evaluation, the pedological volumes in the Itagiba slope were analyzed in terms of texture and consistency limits. Along a toposequence was also evaluated the coefficient of infiltration. Results showed a positive correlation between the volume of precipitation and the loss of sediments. Higher volume of loss was observed in pedological volumes with higher silt content. The coefficient of infiltration decreased with increasing depth, clay content, and plasticity. The evaluation of the toposequence shows that the increase in depth causes the increase of horizontal flows, and that the conformation of the slope profile is controlled by this process.
SABERES DOS PROFESSORES DE EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA DOS ANOS FINAIS DO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL
Authors: Cardoso Caroline Moesch , Isse Silvane Fensterseifer
Published: November 2017

Esta pesquisa objetivou analisar como os professores de Educação Física que atuam nos Anos Finais do Ensino Fundamental compreendem os saberes trabalhados em aula. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo. Foram entrevistados cinco professores de Educação Física que atuam em escolas municipais, estaduais e privadas do município de Lajeado/ RS. A pesquisa evidenciou que a compreensão sobre os saberes está intimamente ligada à formação inicial dos professores, notadamente influenciada pela esportivização, o militarismo e a medicina higiênica. Em relação aos saberes trabalhados, evidenciou-se a questão da disciplina, das relações interpessoais, dos esportes e da socialização, construídos através das práticas corporais.
GESTÃO PRIVADA NA SAÚDE PÚBLICA EM SÃO PAULO: UM ESTUDO DE CASO DA UTILIZAÇÃO DE ORGANIZAÇÃO SOCIAL DE SAÚDE
Authors: Nascimento Jose Orcelio do , Pereira Ribamar Antunes , Zittei Marcus Vinicius Moreira , Lugoboni Leonardo Fabris
Published: November 2017

O modelo de Telerradiologia é viável para atender as unidades de saúde que ainda não utilizam dessa tecnologia nos serviços médicos para todo o Estado de São Paulo, isso se dá ao interesse do Estado em investir na expansão desses serviços nas regiões que se fazem necessário, visando otimizar recursos tecnológicos e humanos, como exemplo: médicos radiologistas e técnicos em radiologia. A utilização de Organização Social de Saúde apresenta a melhor relação custo benefício na administração de unidades públicas de saúde. O objetivo geral desta pesquisa é demonstrar a eficiência da gestão privada no Sistema Único de Saúde em São Paulo, através dos serviços de diagnóstico por imagem. Foi realizada uma pesquisa de natureza qualitativa, exploratória, descritiva por meio de um estudo de caso. O fato considerado relevante dessa pesquisa são os indicadores que demonstra o melhor custo-benefício aos cofres públicos e mais ainda na grande preocupação com a qualidade do diagnóstico à população, no menor tempo possível, visando um atendimento humanizado, diminuindo as grandes filas de esperas, seja no agendamento como na própria realização dos exames. O melhor custo-benefício encontrado na gestão por Organização Social de Saúde oferecido à população e ao Governo do Estado de São Paulo.
CONCEPÇÃO DE UM MODELO DE INDICADORES DE GESTÃO DE PESSOAS: O CASO DOS INSTITUTOS FEDERAIS DE EDUCAÇÃO, CIÊNCIA E TECNOLOGIA
Authors: Bassi Eduardo Da Rocha , Simonetto Eugênio De Oliveira
Published: November 2017

O presente estudo teve como objetivo geral desenvolver um modelo de Indicadores de Gestão de Pessoas para Institutos Federais. Inicialmente, foram coletados indicadores em 228 relatórios de gestão, extraídos do banco de dados do TCU, e tratados por meio de análise de conteúdo. Em seguida, formatou-se um modelo composto por nove Indicadores de Gestão de Pessoas, coletados e ponderados por ordem de preferência (aplicação prática) e respaldo teórico (análise bibliográfica). O referido modelo foi avaliado por meio de entrevistas com gestores de pessoal de três Institutos Federais. Os entrevistados consideram que quase todos os indicadores apresentados possuem aplicação prática, e que o modelo pode contribuir com a tomada de decisões gerenciais e facilitar a transparência de informações à sociedade e aos órgãos controladores.
A positive psychological intervention to promote well-being in a multicultural school setting in greece
Authors: Dimitropoulou Christina , Leontopoulou Sophie
Published: November 2017

The present study seeks to examine the effectiveness of a Positive Psychology Intervention in enhancing well-being in a multicultural school setting. 121 5th and 6th grade primary school male and female students participated in the study. 57.9% were native Greeks and 42.1% were migrant children. 81 students were allocated to the positive intervention group, while 40 students partook in a control group with no positive orientation. Students were asked to complete a questionnaire battery a day prior to the interventions and also fifteen days later. Results indicated that only the positive intervention was effective in enhancing positive emotional experiences, optimism and self-efficacy in peer interactions two weeks after its implementation. The results were mostly undifferentiated for gender, migrant and socioeconomic status as far as positive emotions are concerned, while the patterns of influence of demographic variables on the efficacy of the intervention concerning the participants’ benefits in optimism and self-efficacy are discussed. The PPI group, as opposed to the control group, evaluated the intervention as particularly helpful with respect to all well-being variables, an effect maintained two weeks after the intervention. This positive intervention appears appropriate as a universal mental health promotion vehicle, especially within a demanding multicultural classroom context.
Accuracy of Approximations to the Poynting Correction for Ice and Liquid
Water
Authors: Harvey Allan H.
Published: November 2017

Rigorous calculation of the Poynting correction, which describes the effect of
pressure on the fugacity of a condensed phase, requires time-consuming evaluation of a
thermodynamic potential such as the International Association for the Properties of
Water and Steam (IAPWS-95) formulation for water. Simplifying approximations are used in
many applications, but the error introduced by the approximations is seldom evaluated.
In this work, first-order and second-order approximations were developed for the
Poynting correction for both ice and liquid water (including supercooled liquid water),
and their errors were evaluated by comparison to the full thermodynamic potentials. The
range of conditions covered is from −100 °C to 200 °C at pressures to 20 MPa. Some
implications for the calculation of the enhancement factor used in humidity metrology
are discussed.
Managing persistent wound leakage after total knee and hip arthroplasty. Results of a nationwide survey among Dutch orthopaedic surgeons
Authors: Wagenaar Frank-Christiaan , Löwik Claudia A.M. , Stevens Martin , Bulstra Sjoerd K. , Pronk Yvette , den Inge van , Wouthuyzen-Bakker Marjan , Nelissen Rob G.H.H. , Poolman Rudolf W. , der Walter van , Jutte Paul C.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Background: Persistent wound leakage after joint arthroplasty is a scantily investigated topic, despite the claimed relation with a higher risk of periprosthetic joint infection. This results in a lack of evidence-based clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of persistent wound leakage after joint arthroplasty. Without such guideline, clinical practice in orthopaedic hospitals varies widely. In preparation of a nationwide multicenter randomized controlled trial on the optimal treatment of persistent wound leakage, we evaluated current Dutch orthopaedic care for persistent wound leakage after joint arthroplasty.Methods: We conducted a questionnaire-based online survey among all 700 members of the Netherlands Orthopaedic Association, consisting of 23 questions on the definition, classification, diagnosis and treatment of persistent wound leakage after joint arthroplasty.Results: The questionnaire was completed by 127 respondents, representing 68% of the Dutch hospitals that perform orthopaedic surgery. The results showed wide variation in the classification, definition, diagnosis and treatment of persistent wound leakage among Dutch orthopaedic surgeons. 56.7% of the respondents used a protocol for diagnosis and treatment of persistent wound leakage, but only 26.8% utilized the protocol in every patient. Most respondents (59.1%) reported a maximum period of persistent wound leakage before starting non-surgical treatment of 3 to 7 days after index surgery and 44.1% of respondents reported a maximum period of wound leakage of 10 days before converting to surgical treatment.Conclusions: The wide variety in clinical practice underscores the importance of developing an evidence-based clinical guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of persistent wound leakage after joint arthroplasty. To this end, a nationwide multicenter randomized controlled trial will be conducted in the Netherlands, which may provide evidence on this important and poorly understood topic.
Influence of Sonication on Bacterial Regrowth from Antibiotic Loaded PMMA Scaffolds - An In-vitro Study
Authors: Clauss Martin , Laschkolnig Esther , Graf Susanne , Kühn Klaus-Dieter
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is one of the most challenging complications after joint replacement. However, when treated correctly, chances of recovery are good. The most important step in correct diagnosis and management of PJI is the detection of the causative germ. In the last years, the use of sonication in the diagnostic process has become more important. However, this diagnostic methodology has been controversially discussed when used in combination with antibiotic loaded bone cement (PMMA), which is frequently used in joint replacement surgeries. The aim of this study was thus to analyse in vitro bacterial growth in sonication fluid cultures obtained from antibiotic loaded PMMA which were contaminated with various bacterial biofilms.Sonication fluid obtained from antibiotic loaded PMMA (Copal G+V and Copal G+C) and plain Palacos R (control) contaminated either with S. aureus, E. faecalis, S. sanguinis or P.acnes, were analysed for bacterial re-growth in a standardised in-vitro setting.In vitro bacterial growth was not interfered by released antibiotics from sonication of antibiotic loaded PMMA for S. aureus, E. faecalis and S. sanguinis. However, for P. acnes bacterial counts were affected by the released antibiotics as well as by the time delay between sonication and analysis. The in-vitro data suggest sonication to be an easy and sensitive diagnostic modality to detect easy-to-detect bacteria, however, results are alarming for the difficult-to-detect bacteria P. acnes, indicating that further attention and research is necessary to improve the detection of difficult-to-detect bacteria.
Cyclin A/Cdk1 modulates Plk1 activity in prometaphase to regulate kinetochore-microtubule attachment stability
Authors: Dumitru Ana Maria G , Rusin Scott F , Clark Amber E M , Kettenbach Arminja N , Compton Duane A
Published: November 2017

The fidelity of chromosome segregation in mitosis is safeguarded by the precise regulation of kinetochore microtubule (k-MT) attachment stability. Previously, we demonstrated that Cyclin A/Cdk1 destabilizes k-MT attachments to promote faithful chromosome segregation. Here, we use quantitative phosphoproteomics to identify 156 Cyclin A/Cdk1 substrates in prometaphase. One Cyclin A/Cdk1 substrate is myosin phosphatase targeting subunit 1 (MYPT1), and we show that MYPT1 localization to kinetochores depends on Cyclin A/Cdk1 activity and that MYPT1 destabilizes k-MT attachments by negatively regulating Plk1 at kinetochores. Thus, Cyclin A/Cdk1 phosphorylation primes MYPT1 for Plk1 binding. Interestingly, priming of PBIP1 by Plk1 itself (self-priming) increased in MYPT1-depleted cells showing that MYPT1 provides a molecular link between the processes of Cdk1-dependent priming and self-priming of Plk1 substrates. These data demonstrate cross-regulation between Cyclin A/Cdk1-dependent and Plk1-dependent phosphorylation of substrates during mitosis to ensure efficient correction of k-MT attachment errors necessary for high mitotic fidelity.
Cocaine-induced adaptation of dopamine D2S, but not D2L autoreceptors
Authors: Robinson Brooks G , Condon Alec F , Radl Daniela , Borrelli Emiliana , Williams John T , Neve Kim A
Published: November 2017

The dopamine D2 receptor has two splice variants, D2S (Short) and D2L (Long). In dopamine neurons, both variants can act as autoreceptors to regulate neuronal excitability and dopamine release, but the roles of each variant are incompletely characterized. In a previous study we used viral receptor expression in D2 receptor knockout mice to show distinct effects of calcium signaling on D2S and D2L autoreceptor function (Gantz et al., 2015). However, the cocaine-induced plasticity of D2 receptor desensitization observed in wild type mice was not recapitulated with this method of receptor expression. Here we use mice with genetic knockouts of either the D2S or D2L variant to investigate cocaine-induced plasticity in D2 receptor signaling. Following a single in vivo cocaine exposure, the desensitization of D2 receptors from neurons expressing only the D2S variant was reduced. This did not occur in D2L-expressing neurons, indicating differential drug-induced plasticity between the variants.
Functional divergence of paralogous transcription factors supported the evolution of biomineralization in echinoderms
Authors: Khor Jian Ming , Ettensohn Charles A
Published: November 2017

Alx1 is a pivotal transcription factor in a gene regulatory network that controls skeletogenesis throughout the echinoderm phylum. We performed a structure-function analysis of sea urchin Alx1 using a rescue assay and identified a novel, conserved motif (Domain 2) essential for skeletogenic function. The paralogue of Alx1, Alx4, was not functionally interchangeable with Alx1, but insertion of Domain 2 conferred robust skeletogenic function on Alx4. We used cross-species expression experiments to show that Alx1 proteins from distantly related echinoderms are not interchangeable, although the sequence and function of Domain 2 are highly conserved. We also found that Domain 2 is subject to alternative splicing and provide evidence that this domain was originally gained through exonization. Our findings show that a gene duplication event permitted the functional specialization of a transcription factor through changes in exon-intron organization and thereby supported the evolution of a major morphological novelty.
Solving the inverse heat conduction problem using NVLink capable Power architecture
Authors: Szénási Sándor
Published: November 2017

The accurate knowledge of Heat Transfer Coefficients is essential for the design of precise heat transfer operations. The determination of these values requires Inverse Heat Transfer Calculations, which are usually based on heuristic optimisation techniques, like Genetic Algorithms or Particle Swarm Optimisation. The main bottleneck of these heuristics is the high computational demand of the cost function calculation, which is usually based on heat transfer simulations producing the thermal history of the workpiece at given locations. This Direct Heat Transfer Calculation is a well parallelisable process, making it feasible to implement an efficient GPU kernel for this purpose. This paper presents a novel step forward: based on the special requirements of the heuristics solving the inverse problem (executing hundreds of simulations in a parallel fashion at the end of each iteration), it is possible to gain a higher level of parallelism using multiple graphics accelerators. The results show that this implementation (running on 4 GPUs) is about 120 times faster than a traditional CPU implementation using 20 cores. The latest developments of the GPU-based High Power Computations area were also analysed, like the new NVLink connection between the host and the devices, which tries to solve the long time existing data transfer handicap of GPU programming.
AVALIAÇÃO DA EXTRAÇÃO DE ÓLEO DE SOJA COM ETANOL
Authors: Rotta Eduardo Henrique , Hendges Letiane Thomas , Welter Júlia Bitencourt , Wenzel Bruno München
Published: November 2017

A sensibilização para questões energéticas e ambientais decorrentes da queima de combustíveis fósseis têm incentivado a busca por combustíveis renováveis, entre eles o biodiesel. Industrialmente, ele é produzido via reação de transesterificação de um óleo previamente extraído da oleaginosa (usualmente o hexano como solvente), e um álcool. Neste contexto torna-se importante avaliar a possibilidade de utilização do etanol como agente de extração, já que também participa da reação, podendo assim simplificar o processo. Neste trabalho, com base em um planejamento experimental, foi avaliada a eficiência de extração de óleo em sementes de soja, no equilíbrio, utilizando etanol como solvente, em função das seguintes variáveis: temperatura (entre 30 e 70ºC), razão solvente:óleo (10 a 20 g de etanol/g de óleo) e pureza do etanol (95,5 à 99,5 wt%). Utilizaram-se grãos de soja com teor de umidade e voláteis de 5,71 wt% e teor de óleo de 18,31 wt%. Os experimentos apresentaram extração entre 35 e 100%. Uma análise de variância apontou que ambas as variáveis investigadas influenciam direta e significativamente o equilíbrio da extração. Um modelo linear de primeira ordem mostrou-se suficiente para predição dos resultados experimentais e foi utilizado para calcular valores das variáveis que mostraram elevadas eficiências de extração.
Evaluation of drought resistance in Iris germanica L. based on subordination function and principal component analysis
Authors: Bo Wei , Fu Baochun , Qin Guojie , Xing Guoming , Wang Yuguo
Published: November 2017

Drought is one of the major environment stresses that have a wide range of impact on plants. In this study, seven physiological indexes including the content of soluble protein (SP), chlorophyll (Chl) and malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) activities, leaf relative water content (RWC), rate of water loss (RWL) from excised leaves were measured in leaves of Iris germanica before and after the drought treatment. It was found that the content of MDA and SP, POD and SOD activity increased, while RWL and RWC decreased in response to drought stress. Based on the subordinate function values of seven physiological indexes, seven single indexes were transformed into three principal components namely damage degree, active oxygen removal ability and moisture condition and the composite score (F value) of each iris variety was calculated by principal component analysis (PCA). Based on the F values, 10 iris cultivars could be divided into three groups by cluster analysis (CA): drought-resistance (2 varieties), medium drought-resistance (5 varieties), and low drought-resistance (3 varieties). Meanwhile, optimum regression equation was constructed. Therefore, this work provides a comprehensive and reliable method for evaluating drought resistance in the varieties of Iris germanica.
Vitamin C content in leaves and roots of horseradish (Armoracia rusticana): seasonal variation in fresh tissues and retention as affected by storage conditions
Authors: Rivelli Anna Rita , Caruso Marisa Carmela , Maria Susanna De , Galgano Fernanda
Published: November 2017

Since antiquity, horseradish is known as folk medicinal herb and food condiment. The richness in phytochemicals has recently encouraged its use in the medical field and as functional food. In this study, vitamin C content by HPLC analysis in young and mature leaves and roots of two horseradish accessions collected at different developmental stages was evaluated. The effect of freezing and freeze-drying on vitamin C loss after different storage time was also analyzed. The vitamin C content varied in fresh tissues depending on accessions and developmental stages. Roots contained the highest values of vitamin C when plant approximated to senescence (about 80 mg 100 g-1 fw). A great content of vitamin C was found in young leaves during the full developmental stages (up to 350 mg 100 g-1 fw) and in mature ones toward plant senescence (up to 280 mg 100 g-1 fw, respectively). By freezing tissues at ˗20°C, a monthly vitamin C loss of 5% was estimated, while by freezing at ˗80°C the losses did not exceed 6% after 8 months of storage. By freeze-drying tissues, a loss of vitamin C of about 40% was found after 4 months of storage at 4°C. Despite the losses associated with food processing, the residual content of vitamin C in horseradish remains still higher compared to other vegetables.
Meat quality of Limousin young bulls slaughtered at 6, 9 and 12 months of age
Authors: Runowska Grażyna Czyżak- , Grześ Bożena , Pospiech Edward , Komisarek Jolanta , Okulicz Monika , Stanisławski Daniel , Kęszycka Maria Markiewicz-
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study was to compare the quality of meat of the young Limousin bulls slaughtered at the age of 6, 9 and 12 months, with particular regard to the residual glycogen content in the meat and the value of the glycolytic potential. The study was conducted on bovine longissimus lumborum muscle. The residual glycogen content, glycolytic potential value (96 h post-mortem), pH value (45 min, 24 h, 48 h and 96 h post-mortem), IMP/ATP index (45 min post-mortem), colour parameters (L*, a* and b*), natural and cooking losses, free water content, the chemical composition, sensory parameters (aroma, flavour, juiciness and tenderness) as well as instrumental tenderness based on cutting test (96 h post-mortem) were analysed. The slaughter age of bulls had significant (p<0.05) effect on following meat parameters: concentration of glycogen, glycolytic potential value, lightness (L*) and redness (a*), shear force value, intramuscular fat content and sensory evaluation of aroma, flavour, juiciness and tenderness.  The longissimus lumborum muscle from young bulls slaughtered at the age of 6 months had significantly (p<0.05) lower values for glycogen concentration, glycolytic potential and intramuscular fat content when compared to animals slaughtered at the age of 12 months. Moreover, the colour of the examined muscle from the youngest bulls was characterised by the highest L* value and the lowest a* value as well as the lowest shear force value when compared to the meat of older bulls slaughtered at the age of 9 and 12 months.
Landscaping with native plants in the UAE: A review
Authors: Alam Hasnain , Khattak Jabar Zaman Khan , Ppoyil Shaijal Babu Thru , Kurup Shyam S. , Ksiksi Taoufik Saleh
Published: November 2017

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a unique experience in greening the desert. Huge efforts have been done to create green spaces across the country including afforestation and urban landscaping. Most of the landscaping designs were inspired from western landscapes comprises mostly of exotic species, which do not reconcile with the environmental conditions of the UAE. The intensive use of exotic species in artificial vegetation, high water requirements for the UAE greenery, coupled with water shortages and salinity, are causing major environmental and ecological challenges.  Fortunately, the UAE hosts a unique flora and fauna that show remarkable adjustment to harsh weather conditions. Here we emphasize the use of native plants due to their potential to develop landscapes in saline and water shortage conditions, leading to reduced water usage for landscaping. The preservation of native biodiversity of the UAE will be an added benefit. In this article the main aspects of the UAE landscaping efforts, with the associated water resources using native plants in landscaping, problems in promoting native plants in landscaping and possible solutions are discussed.
Risk of Inflammatory Central Nervous System Diseases After Tumor Necrosis Factor–Inhibitor Treatment for Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Xie Wenhui , Sun Yunchuang , Zhang Wei , Zhu Nanbo , Xiao Shiyu
Published: October 2024

Importance

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors have been used extensively to treat various autoimmune diseases. However, there are ongoing debates about the risk of inflammatory central nervous system (CNS) disease events following TNF inhibitor therapy, as well as uncertainty about how this risk varies across different autoimmune diseases or TNF-blocking agents.

Objective

To evaluate the risk of inflammatory CNS diseases after anti-TNF initiation and assess the difference in risk among different types of underlying autoimmune diseases or TNF inhibitors.

Data Sources

Separate searches were conducted across PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from inception until March 1, 2024.

Study Selection

Observational studies assessing the association between anti-TNF therapy and inflammatory CNS diseases relative to a comparator group.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Study eligibility assessment and data extraction were independently conducted by 2 investigators following PRISMA guidelines. The risk ratio (RR) was used as the effect measure of the pooled analysis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the risk of incident inflammatory CNS events after anti-TNF therapy for autoimmune diseases. Secondary analyses were performed based on different types of underlying autoimmune diseases and TNF inhibitors.

Results

Eighteen studies involving 1 118 428 patients with autoimmune diseases contributing more than 5 698 532 person-years of follow-up were analyzed. The incidence rates of new-onset inflammatory CNS events after initiating TNF inhibitors ranged from 2.0 to 13.4 per 10 000 person-years. Overall, exposure to TNF inhibitors was associated with a 36% increased risk of any inflammatory CNS disease compared to conventional therapies (RR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.01-1.84; I2, 49%), mainly attributed to demyelinating diseases (RR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.04-1.81; I2, 31%). Secondary analyses revealed a similar risk of inflammatory CNS diseases across different types of underlying autoimmune diseases (rheumatic diseases: RR, 1.36; 95% CI, 0.84-2.21; inflammatory bowel disease 1.49; 95% CI, 0.93-2.40; P for subgroup = .74) and TNF inhibitors (anti-TNF monoclonal antibodies vs etanercept: RR, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.93-1.15; I2, 0%).

Conclusions and Relevance

Compared to conventional therapies, exposure to TNF inhibitors was associated with a 36% increased risk of inflammatory CNS diseases, irrespective of background autoimmune disease or TNF inhibitor type.
Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis in the Post–Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Era
Authors: Qian Z. Jason , Peñaranda Daniel , Valdez Tulio A. , Balakrishnan Karthik , Brigger Matthew T.
Published: October 2024

This cross-sectional study examines the incidence of juvenile-onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis and HPV vaccination rates from 2007 to 2022 in the US.
Platycodin D reduces PD‐L1 levels by inhibiting LXR‐β activity and combines with nintedanib to enhance the tumor‐killing effect of T cells
Authors: Lei Jin , Cao Xue‐Wei , Li Peng‐Fei , Zhao Jian , Wang Fu‐Jun
Published: October 2024

Most tumors are resistant to programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1)/programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) checkpoint inhibitors, which may be due to impaired antigen presentation resulting from the downregulation of major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC‐I) expression on tumor cells. We observed that platycodin D (PD), polygalacin D, and platycodin D2, which are plant‐derived triterpenoid saponins, significantly reduced PD‐L1 levels. RNA sequencing and the PharmMapper database analysis identified liver X receptor β (LXR‐β) as a potential PD target. Further studies showed that PD reduces PD‐L1 levels by binding to LXR‐β and inhibiting LXR‐β activity. Coadministration of PD and nintedanib, known to upregulate MHC‐I expression, enhanced tumor recognition and killing by T cells. This study provides new insights into PD applications and mechanisms.
An Update on Theoretical and Metrological Aspects of the Surface Hydrophobicity of Virus and Virus‐Like Particles
Authors: Sautrey Guillaume
Published: October 2024

Viruses are biological entities embodied in protein‐based nanoparticles devoid of metabolic activity. Hence, the colloidal, interfacial, and chemical reactivity of virus particles (VPs) profoundly affects the fate of natural and artificial viruses in biotic or abiotic aqueous systems. These rely on the physical chemistry at the outer surface of VPs. In other words, whether wild or synthetic VPs and regardless of the scientific fields involved, taming viruses implies thus managing the physical chemistry at the VP external surface. The surface hydrophobicity (SH) of VPs is a critical feature that must be looked at. Still, the literature dealing with nanoscale hydrophobic domains at the proteinaceous surface of VPs underlying their global SH is like a fragmented puzzle. This article provides an overview of the topic from the perspective of modern protein biophysics for updating the classic physicochemical picture of outer VP/water interfaces hitherto accepted. Patterns of non‐polar and “false‐polar” patches, expressing variable hydrophobic degrees according to neighboring polar patches, are now drawn. The extensive discussion of reviewed data generates such fresh ideas to explore in the coming years for better modeling the SH of wild virions or engineered virus‐based nanoparticles, paving the way for new directions in fundamental virology and virus‐based chemistry.
Finite‐Element Analysis of an Antagonistic Bistable Shape Memory Alloy Beam Actuator
Authors: Shahsavari Hamid , Chen Xi , Kaleng Tshikwand Georgino , Wendler Frank , Kohl Manfred
Published: October 2024

A finite‐element (FE) analysis of the active bistability of an antagonistic shape memory alloy (SMA) beam actuator of TiNiCu is presented. The actuator comprises two coupled SMA beams that are clamped at both ends and coupled in their center by a spacer having different memory shapes being deflected in opposite out‐of‐plane directions. The actuator is characterized by two equilibrium positions. To determine bistable behavior as a function of geometrical parameters, a force criterion is defined by the coupling force of the beams in austenitic and martensitic states. Bistable behavior is achieved, if the coupling force does not change sign in the entire displacement range. This implies that the austenitic beam dominates the opposing martensitic beam. Thus, selective heating of the SMA beams results in a snap‐through motion of the coupled SMA beams. Depending on which of the two beams is in austenitic state, either of the two equilibrium positions is reached without the need for an external force. It is demonstrated that geometrical parameters like initial predeflection and spacer length have a crucial effect on the bistable performance. Bistable regions as well as critical limits characterized by geometry‐dependent stability ratios, beyond which the actuator's performance becomes monostable, are identified.
High Safety Fuel Cells Based on Gas Diffusion Layer Suppressed Uneven Current and Thermal Runaway
Authors: Ning Fandi , Zhu Xingyu , Liu Yiyang , Hammad Ali , Huang Jiahao , Chai Zhi , Shen Min , He Can , Wen Qinglin , Dan Xiong , Li Wei , Tian Bin , He Lei , Zhou Xiaochun
Published: October 2024

Thermal runaway poses a critical safety concern for fuel cells, significantly impairing their performance and durability. Uneven current often leads to uneven temperature, exacerbating the risk of thermal runaway. The inadequate electrical and thermal conductivity of the gas diffusion layer (GDL) is identified as the primary cause of the safety issues. To address this, a multilayer composite gas diffusion layer (MC‐GDL) is proposed and designed to enhance both electrical and thermal conductivity. The in‐plane electrical conductivity of the MC‐GDL reaches an impressive 9.1 × 104 S m−1. Under extreme uneven current, the fuel cell's performance with MC‐GDL only declines by 3.7%, compared to a substantial 58.1% decline observed with commercial GDL. Additionally, the in‐plane thermal conductivity of the MC‐GDL is notably high at 337.0 W m−1 K−1. Under extreme uneven temperature, the maximum temperature of Nafion membrane in fuel cell equipped with MC‐GDL is only 84.2 °C significantly lower than the 180.7 °C observed with commercial GDL. Consequently, the MC‐GDL effectively prevents the melting, thinning, and perforation of the Nafion membrane, thereby mitigating thermal runaway. Furthermore, the superior electrical and thermal conductivity of MC‐GDL can enhance the safety of other electrochemical devices by minimizing uneven current and thermal runaway.
Plasma‐Enhanced Magnetron Sputtering: A Novel Approach for Biofunctional Metal Nanoparticle Coatings on Reverse Osmosis Composite Membranes
Authors: Michler Nicole , Hirsch Ulrike M. , Steinert Carolin , Fritzsche Gregor , Schmelzer Christian E. H.
Published: October 2024

Reverse osmosis (RO) is the most common method for treating salt and brackish water. As a membrane‐driven process, a key challenge for RO systems is their susceptibility to scaling and biofouling. To address these issues, functional coatings utilizing metal nanoparticles (MNPs) are developed. In this study, silver, gold, and copper nanoparticles are applied onto thin‐film composite (TFC) membranes using plasma‐enhanced magnetron sputtering. The elemental composition, surface morphology, and hydrophilicity of the coatings are analyzed using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and contact angle measurements. The antimicrobial properties and the filtration efficiency of the coated membranes are assessed through application‐specific experimental setups. Silver and copper nanoparticles exhibit superior antimicrobial properties, reducing microorganism adhesion by a factor of 103 compared to uncoated membranes. Under appropriate coating conditions, no deterioration in filtration performance is observed. Enhancing the adhesion of MNPs is necessary for achieving sustained release of metal ions.
Control of Orientation and Periodicity of Laser‐Induced Surface Structures on Metals
Authors: Shvedov Vladlen G. , Izdebskaya Yana V. , Shadrivov Ilya V.
Published: October 2024

Laser‐induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) can be created on various materials, and they hold an exceptional potential for surface nanopatterning, enabling new industrial applications in medicine, biology, optics and other fields. However, LIPSS formation is typically restricted to a specific orientation and periodicity. In this work, a novel approach is demonstrated for full control of the LIPSS periodicity and orientation on metallic surfaces using a 1064 nm nanosecond laser. Analytical expressions and experimental verification are presented to show that by simultaneously manipulating three parameters of the laser beam, such as the polarization, angle of incidence, and direction of the laser scan along the surface, LIPSS can be formed with the desired geometrical configuration. This enhanced control opens vast possibilities for laser processing technologies as a flexible and highly competitive solution for advanced applications relying on surface modifications in the fields of anisotropic surface wettability, thermal and electrical conductivity, structured colors, diffraction gratings, and many others.
Full‐Color Tunability Room Temperature Phosphorescence from Inorganic Crystal Frameworks
Authors: Huang Yunze , Zhang Weibo , Yan Siyu , Xin Hongpu , Li Peng
Published: October 2024

Room temperature afterglow (RTA) materials have aroused prodigious research interests owing to their unique long‐life luminescent properties. However, it is rare for RTA materials to be reported with full‐color afterglow emission. Herein, a universal strategy is designed to activate full‐color tunability RTA based on phenylboronic acid derivatives (BOH) and boric acid (BA) via an ingenious solvent‐free solid‐phase heating. As the conjugation degrees of aromatic groups of the guest molecule expanded, the BOH/BA composites showed tunable afterglow colors ranging from blue to red after ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. This strategy is to firmly anchor the guest molecule in a rigid framework of the inorganic metaboric acid matrix by abundant hydrogen‐bonding interactions between the host and guest, suppressing molecular motion and promoting the intersystem crossing (ISC) rate between the singlet and triplet excited states for enhanced afterglow emission. In addition, through mixing in multiple guest molecules into BA simultaneously, the obtained composite can be modulated in a wide excitation range from blue to red. This fascinating study provides a simple and universal method to fabricate full‐color tunability RTA composites, making them a promising candidate for applications in advanced information security and multi‐level encryption.
Ruthenium(II)‐Catalyzed Pyridyl‐Directed Tryptophan C−H Acylmethylation with α‐Chloro Ketones
Authors: Hu Shulei , Wang Yong , Xie Xiong , Liang Renwen , Liu Hong , Wang Jiang
Published: October 2024

A ruthenium(II)‐catalyzed C−H acylmethylation of Trp‐containing peptides with α‐chloro ketones is reported here. This reaction features good C‐2 selectivity and chemoselectivity, making it suitable for late‐stage modification of Trp‐containing peptides. Low‐cost metal ruthenium as a catalyst enables the reaction to be conducted on a gram scale. This report also discusses the synthetic applications and presents a method to remove the pyridine directing group. In addition, a plausible mechanism of the C(2)−H acylmethylation reaction is proposed in this article.
Investigation of AMA Synthase from Pyrenophora teres f. teres 0–1 for the Synthesis of Aspergillomarasmine A Analogues and Non‐Canonical Amino Acids
Authors: Zhu Zhixi , Ma Yue , Xie Xiaoying , Wang Zhiyuan , Han Lu , Song Jingwu , Liang Yuzong , Poelarends Gerrit J. , Chen Yijun , Lu Meiling , Zhang Jielin
Published: October 2024

The fungal natural product aspergillomarasmine A (AMA) is an inhibitor of metallo‐β‐lactamases and a promising co‐drug candidate for reversing bacterial β‐lactam resistance. The biosynthesis of AMA from L‐Asp and O‐phospho‐L‐serine is catalyzed by AMA synthase, which possesses high synthetic potential for the biocatalytic preparation of AMA and related aminopolycarboxylic acids. Here, we identified and structurally characterized an AMA synthase from Pyrenophora teres f. teres 0–1 (PteAMAS). Crystallographic analysis revealed a unique homotetrameric fold and a highly hydrophilic active site, which supports the PLP‐dependent β‐replacement catalytic mechanism. Furthermore, we demonstrated the utility of PteAMAS for the biocatalytic synthesis of AMA and its analogues, achieving structural diversification of the APA1 moiety through a modular two‐enzyme system involving PteAMAS and a selective C−N lyase, namely EDDS lyase or 3‐methylaspartate ammonia lyase variant MAL−Q73 A. In addition, we exhibited the usefulness of PteAMAS for convenient synthesis of various S‐alkyl, ‐aryl, and ‐arylalkyl substituted L‐cysteines, which are valuable non‐canonical amino acids with broad pharmaceutical applications. The present study has not only provided the structural basis for catalysis and substrate recognition by PteAMAS, but also paved the way for biocatalytic preparation of structurally complex AMA analogues and various non‐canonical amino acids.
Chronic Exposure to Bioaerosols in PM2.5 from Garbage Stations Accelerates Vascular Aging via the NF‐κB/NLRP3 Pathway
Authors: Chen Peier , Ning Xiaodong , Feng Weijing , Li Yajing , Chen Guoqin , Shi Xu , Pan YuXuan , Shi Xueqin , Xiao Yafang , Liu Yuhua , Zhang Guoxia , Zhou Feiran , Ou Caiwen
Published: October 2024

The fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in air pollution is a critical risk factor influencing human health. Our study included 8144 participants and showed that the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events increases by 35% (HR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.14–1.60) for participants with the highest quartile to PM2.5 exposure as compared to those with lowest quartile. Bioaerosols, as an important environmental exposure in PM2.5, can induce systemic chronic inflammation leading to vascular aging. Thus, the effects of bioaerosols are investigated from household garbage stations in PM2.5 on vascular aging, and the underlying mechanisms are explored. In vivo, chronic exposure to bioaerosols upregulated senescence marker expression levels while causing vascular dysfunction and remodeling. In vitro, bioaerosol exposure induced decreased proliferation, G0/G1 arrest, and impaired migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Furthermore, a single bacterium (AS22a) from the bioaerosol community was isolated and demonstrated that it upregulated inflammatory factors and accelerated cell senescence and vascular aging by activating the NF‐κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway, which may serve as a primary mechanism underlying vascular aging induced by bioaerosols in PM2.5. These findings suggest that high levels of bioaerosols in household garbage stations may adversely affect cardiovascular health.
Parkinson Disease ‐Targeted Nanocapsules for Synergistic Treatment: Combining Dopamine Replacement and Neuroinflammation Mitigation
Authors: Liu Ziyao , Xiang Shijun , Chen Bei , Li Jian , Zhu Dingcheng , Xu Hongjuan , Hu Shuo
Published: October 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by dopamine (DA) neuron loss and neuroinflammation. This study develops carrier‐free nanocapsules (NCs) for targeted delivery of DA and catalase (CAT) to the PD brain, addressing both DA depletion and neuroinflammation simultaneously. The NCs are engineered by DA and 4‐formylphenylboronic acid co‐loading with cRGD‐modified CAT (CAT‐cRGD) and surface‐modifying with Angiopep‐2 (Ang). Ang targets the blood‐brain barrier (BBB), enhancing brain delivery, while cRGD targets upregulated integrin receptors in the PD‐affected BBB. The NCs showed a 1.4‐fold increase in parkinsonian brain targeting efficiency compared to normal mice. In PD mice models, NCs demonstrated a stable increase in learning and memory, enhanced locomotor activity, and improved motor coordination. DA supplementation significantly enhanced dopaminergic signaling, increasing DA levels 1.8‐ and 3.5‐fold in the striatum and substantia nigra, respectively. Additionally, delivered CAT effectively reduced neuroinflammation by mitigating endoplasmic reticulum stress, slowing disease progression, and protecting DA from oxidation. This innovative approach using PD‐targeted NCs represents a synergistic strategy for PD treatment, combining symptomatic relief with disease progression intervention.
A Multi‐Responsive Hydrogel Combined With Mild Heat Stimulation Promotes Diabetic Wound Healing by Regulating Inflammatory and Enhancing Angiogenesis
Authors: Dai Fanjia , Zhang Jiaying , Chen Fengjiao , Chen Xianwu , Lee Celine Jessica , Liang Hongze , Zhao Lingling , Tan Hui
Published: October 2024

The repair of diabetic wound still encounters huge challenges, such as disordered inflammatory regulation and impaired neovascularization. Here, a pH/ROS/glucose responsive and photothermal hydrogel is developed for diabetic wound healing. The hydrogel is formed through cross‐linkage between phenylboronic acid‐modified carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS‐PBA) and oxide dextran (OXD), utilizing Schiff base and phenylboronate ester bonds. Additionally, insulin‐like growth factor 1 C domain (IGF‐1C) and deferoxamine‐loaded polydopamine nanoparticles (D@P) are incorporated into the hydrogel. The hydrogel demonstrates sustained drug release, excellent photo thermal effect, prominent antioxidant, antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory activities, desirable mechanical and tissue adhesive properties, enhanced tube formation, and cell migration. Furthermore, the hydrogel combined with mild heat treatment can regulate chronic inflammation by promoting the transformation of macrophages from M1 phenotype to M2 phenotype and enhance angiogenesis by up‐regulating the expression levels of angiogenesis‐related factors such as hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 alpha (HIF‐1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), CD31, and α‐SMA, thus greatly accelerates the wound healing in streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic mice. Therefore, this multi‐responsive and multifunctional hydrogel holds potential as a therapeutic strategy for diabetic wounds.
Bionic Fluorine‐Free Multifunctional Photothermal Surface for Anti/de/Driving‐Icing and Droplet Manipulation
Authors: Wang Lin , Zhang Chengchun , Zhang Yasong , Shen Chun , Xin Zhentao , Wei Zhenjiang
Published: October 2024

Due to safety concerns associated with ice accumulation, there is a need to develop a durable surface with anti/de‐icing properties. Inspired by Gecko skin and Nepenthes, a superhydrophobic photothermal surface (SH‐PS) with micro‐nano hierarchical structure based on carbon nanotube composites is prepared by one‐step laser method. It can be switchable to a slippery photothermal surface (S‐PS) by injecting silicone oil. S‐PS can effectively delay icing at −20 °C/−30 °C, and maintain excellent dynamic anti‐icing capabilities following 28 times supercooled droplet impact (−30 °C). Under near‐infrared (NIR) irradiation, S‐PS exhibits high‐efficiency photothermal deicing and excellent ice droplet control capabilities. Furthermore, S‐PS also exhibits remarkable droplet manipulation capabilities under NIR irradiation, even anti‐gravity transport (8°) and programmable track manipulation. Notably, after 20 m abrasion, the S‐PS still maintains good performances of anti/de‐icing and droplet manipulation after infusing lubricant. All these excellent performances can promote its application in a wider range of fields.
Designing High‐Sensitivity Mechanochromic Luminescent Materials Through Friction‐Induced Crystallization Strategy
Authors: An Zhihang , Dai Zhenhao , Liu Jiaping , Chen Si , Wang Xu , Liu Heyang , Sheng Zhongyi , Shan Tianyu
Published: October 2024

Despite recent significant breakthroughs in novel mechanochromic luminescent (ML) materials, developing a high‐sensitivity ML material is still challengeable. Herein, a “friction‐induced crystallization” strategy is proposed to realize highly sensitive transformations of luminescent signal, through an integration of polymeric chains and an aggregation‐sensitive luminescent core, which act as mechanical sensors and fluochromic actuators, respectively. The coupling of these two components enables the material to crystallize in response to shear friction, thereby exhibiting blue‐shift fluorescence due to a more restricted relaxation pathway. This study underscores a high‐sensitivity ML material based on the precise regulation of molecular‐scale motions, and also expands the scope and potential of ML materials toward user‐friendly, interactive wearable devices.