bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ámbitos emergentes en educación social: intervención socioeducativa con personas afectadas por la enfermedad de alzheimer y otros trastornos neurocognitivos mayores
Authors: Dapía Conde María Dolores , Failde Garrido José María , Ruiz Soriano Laura , Vázquez Vázquez Miguel Ángel
Published: July 2023

El aumento de la esperanza de vida producido en las últimas cinco décadas lleva parejo un incremento del espectro visible de los trastornos neurocognitivos mayores (TNM), entre los que destaca la enfermedad de Alzheimer (EA) como la entidad clínica más preva­lente. Actualmente, no existe un tratamiento eficaz para estas patologías, siendo los enfoques biomédicos necesariamente complementados con terapias no farmacológicas, provenientes de diferentes disciplinas psicológicas y socioeducativas, entre las que la educación social (ES) comienza a hacerse presente. No obstante, sus prácticas son todavía poco visibles, pre­cisándose de mayores esfuerzos en materia de investigación y transferencia. El objetivo de este estudio es describir y analizar la intervención socioeducativa que los profesionales de la ES realizan con las personas afectadas por EA u otro ENM. Complementariamente, se analizará el grado de inserción laboral en el ámbito gerontológico. El presente estudio responde a un diseño observacional descriptivo transversal, con metodología mixta, utilizando la técnica cualitativa Delphi a partir de un panel de expertos configurado por 25 participantes y un enfoque más cuantitativo mediante encuesta dirigida a todos los centros gerontológicos de Galicia. Los resultados reflejan que los profesionales de la ES presentan una importante inserción laboral en los centros gerontológicos y, particularmente, en los dispositivos de atención a personas afectadas por EA u otro TNM. Su actuación es muy heterogénea, tanto por la diversidad de áreas en las que intervienen, como por los colectivos a los que las direcciona. Persisten, sin embargo, limitaciones que interfieren el adecuado desarrollo de la carrera profesional de los ES, motivadas por la ausencia de una regulación laboral, la falta de clarificación de sus fun­ciones y por la escasa formación en este ámbito de intervención. Asimismo, se ha constatado una limitada presencia de investigaciones publicadas sobre la temática.
Reseña de la obra "Aprendizaje-servicio en clave intergeneracional. Evaluación de experiencias"
Authors: Barbed Castrejón Noelia
Published: July 2023

Review of the work "Service-learning in an intergenerational key. Evaluation of experiences", coordinated by Mª Ángeles Valdemoros and Rosa Ana Alonso and published in 2022 by Thomson Reuters. Aranzadi
En los límites de lo testimonial: Fantasía y ciencia ficción en Viaje a la aldea del crimen (1934), de Ramón J. Sender
Authors: Solano Escolano Damian V.
Published: July 2023

Este artículo explora la vinculación de Viaje a la aldea del crimen (1934), de Ramón J. Sender, al género testimonial. Para ello, se analizan las funciones retóricas de dos episodios cercanos a la fantasía y a la ciencia ficción que parecen romper con la verosimilitud de la obra. Esta ruptura podría desvelar los límites de dicha vinculación. En su forma de libro, este texto se desarrolló a partir de una serie de reportajes periodísticos realizados in situ pocos días después de los llamados sucesos de Casas Viejas (1933), que hicieron tambalearse la coalición republicano-socialista durante la Segunda República. El primer episodio sobrenatural le permite al narrador, a través de un viaje al pasado, convertirse en un testigo presencial de los acontecimientos, no solo de oídas (como lo fue el mismo Sender). El segundo presenta un diálogo entre el narrador y la estatua conocida como María Mármol, quien interpreta los sucesos como un síntoma de una lucha de clases secular. Estos dos elementos aparentemente disruptivos sirven para enfatizar el estilo realista predominante en el relato, que valida la autoridad de la voz testimonial del narrador y su referencialidad fáctica. El análisis de esta paradoja estilística podría ayudar a esclarecer los fundamentos de lo que Manuel Aznar Soler llama hilo rojo; el realismo revolucionario de los años 30 en España que, de manera análoga al testimonio moderno, buscaba transformar la realidad, no meramente retratarla.
El testimonio arrebatado de los campos de concentración: las memorias de Gregorio Nacianceno Mata en diálogo con la tradición testimonial
Authors: González Morales Belén
Published: July 2023

El presente trabajo es la primera aproximación que se realiza desde la perspectiva de la literatura testimonial a las memorias de Gregorio Nacianceno Mata Rodríguez, superviviente del campo nazi de Mauthausen, cuyo texto, escrito en 1971, vio la luz en 2006, tras la muerte de su autor, con el título Nacianceno Mata, un canario en Mauthausen. Memorias de un superviviente del holocausto nazi. Con ese fin de estudiar esta obra, en primer lugar, se la sitúa en el contexto del exilio republicano español y en la tradición de la literatura testimonial producida por los españoles prisioneros en Mauthausen. En segundo lugar, se analizan los rasgos temáticos, formales y pragmáticos del texto de Mata y se aborda la relevancia del contexto de su escritura. Finalmente, se reflexiona sobre la construcción de las memorias sociales a través de la recuperación de los testimonios de los testigos que volvieron al campo de concentración transcurridos los años para seguir recordando tanto lo sucedido como a las víctimas y, de esta manera, presentar en la actualidad una forma de resistencia en un mundo amenazado por la repetición de la Historia.
"Atocha. El revés de la luz". Entrevista al dramaturgo Javier Durán
Authors: Valls Crespo Lurdes , Monsell Corts Juan José
Published: July 2023

Entrevista al dramaturgo Javier Durán
Supportive Interventions for Caregivers of Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hoseinpour Fatemeh , Ghahari Setareh , Motaharinezhad Fatemeh , Binesh Maryam
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Caregivers of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) are key members of the treatment team. Their needs and challenges should be met as interventions can be effective in improving not only their own health, well-being, and quality of life but also that of those they care for. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate supportive interventions for caregivers of individuals with MS.

METHODS

We conducted a database search of PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library from 2000 to 2021. English-language studies that examined interventions administered directly to caregivers of individuals with MS and evaluated various outcomes were included. The Downs and Black checklist was used to assess the methodological quality of included studies.

RESULTS

Twenty of 367 relevant papers fit the eligibility criteria outlined in the methods of this study and were subsequently selected for this review. Of the included studies, there was a notable variance in key characteristics such as methods, outcome measures, sample size, and procedures. Supportive interventions, psychoeducational group interventions, and behavioral-adaptive therapies were the 3 main categories of interventions reviewed; however, each study had a significant correlation between the intervention and outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the small sample size in this study, this review showed that various intervention models that target caregivers of individuals with MS have been successful.
Mitochondrial defects caused by PARL deficiency lead to arrested spermatogenesis and ferroptosis
Authors: Radaelli Enrico , Assenmacher Charles-Antoine , Verrelle Jillian , Banerjee Esha , Manero Florence , Khiati Salim , Girona Anais , Lopez-Lluch Guillermo , Navas Placido , Spinazzi Marco
Published: July 2023

Impaired spermatogenesis and male infertility are common manifestations associated with mitochondrial diseases, yet the underlying mechanisms linking these conditions remain elusive. In this study, we demonstrate that mice deficient for the mitochondrial intra-membrane rhomboid protease PARL, a recently reported model of the mitochondrial encephalopathy Leigh syndrome, develop early testicular atrophy caused by a complete arrest of spermatogenesis during meiotic prophase I, followed by degeneration and death of arrested spermatocytes. This process is independent of neurodegeneration. Interestingly, genetic modifications of PINK1, PGAM5, and TTC19 – three major substrates of PARL with important roles in mitochondrial homeostasis – fail to reproduce or modify this severe phenotype, indicating that the spermatogenic arrest arises from distinct molecular pathways. We further observed severe abnormalities in mitochondrial ultrastructure in PARL-deficient spermatocytes, along with prominent electron transfer chain defects, disrupted coenzyme Q (CoQ) biosynthesis, and metabolic rewiring. These mitochondrial defects are associated with a germ cell-specific decrease in GPX4 expression leading arrested spermatocytes to ferroptosis – a regulated cell death modality characterized by uncontrolled lipid peroxidation. Our results suggest that mitochondrial defects induced by PARL depletion act as an initiating trigger for ferroptosis in primary spermatocytes through simultaneous effects on GPX4 and CoQ – two major inhibitors of ferroptosis. These findings shed new light on the potential role of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of mitochondrial diseases and male infertility warranting further investigation.
A pan-sharpening network using multi-resolution transformer and two-stage feature fusion
Authors: Fan Wensheng , Liu Fan , Li Jingzhi
Published: July 2023

Pan-sharpening is a fundamental and crucial task in the remote sensing image processing field, which generates a high-resolution multi-spectral image by fusing a low-resolution multi-spectral image and a high-resolution panchromatic image. Recently, deep learning techniques have shown competitive results in pan-sharpening. However, diverse features in the multi-spectral and panchromatic images are not fully extracted and exploited in existing deep learning methods, which leads to information loss in the pan-sharpening process. To solve this problem, a novel pan-sharpening method based on multi-resolution transformer and two-stage feature fusion is proposed in this article. Specifically, a transformer-based multi-resolution feature extractor is designed to extract diverse image features. Then, to fully exploit features with different content and characteristics, a two-stage feature fusion strategy is adopted. In the first stage, a multi-resolution fusion module is proposed to fuse multi-spectral and panchromatic features at each scale. In the second stage, a shallow-deep fusion module is proposed to fuse shallow and deep features for detail generation. Experiments over QuickBird and WorldView-3 datasets demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms current state-of-the-art approaches visually and quantitatively with fewer parameters. Moreover, the ablation study and feature map analysis also prove the effectiveness of the transformer-based multi-resolution feature extractor and the two-stage fusion scheme.
Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Ocimum sanctum Linn. and its antibacterial activity against multidrug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Gautam Deepan , Dolma Karma Gurmey , Khandelwal Bidita , Gupta Madhu , Singh Meghna , Mahboob Tooba , Teotia Anil , Thota Prasad , Bhattacharya Jaydeep , Goyal Ramesh , M.R. Oliveira Sonia , Pereira Maria de Lourdes , Wiart Christophe , Wilairatana Polrat , Eawsakul Komgrit , Rahmatullah Mohammed , Saravanabhavan Shanmuga Sundar , Nissapatorn Veeranoot
Published: July 2023

The biosynthesis of nanoparticles using the green route is an effective strategy in nanotechnology that provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to physical and chemical methods. This study aims to prepare an aqueous extract of Ocimum sanctum (O. sanctum)-based silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) through the green route and test their antibacterial activity. The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles were characterised by colour change, UV spectrometric analysis, FTIR, and particle shape and size morphology by SEM and TEM images. The nanoparticles are almost spherical to oval or rod-shaped with smooth surfaces and have a mean particle size in the range of 55 nm with a zeta potential of −2.7 mV. The antibacterial activities of AgNPs evaluated against clinically isolated multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) showed that the AgNPs from O. sanctum are effective in inhibiting A. baumannii growth with a zone of inhibition of 15 mm in the agar well diffusion method and MIC and MBC of 32 µg/mL and 64 µg/mL, respectively. The SEM images of A. baumannii treated with AgNPs revealed damage and rupture in bacterial cells. The time-killing assay by spectrophotometry revealed the time- and dose-dependent killing action of AgNPs against A. baumannii, and the assay at various concentrations and time intervals indicated a statistically significant result in comparison with the positive control colistin at 2 µg/mL (P < 0.05). The cytotoxicity test using the MTT assay protocol showed that prepared nanoparticles of O. sanctum are less toxic against human cell A549. This study opens up a ray of hope to explore the further research in this area and to improve the antimicrobial activities against multidrug resistant bacteria.
Response of Direct Seeded Rice to Iron and Zinc Fertilization Strategies under Middle Gujarat Conditions
Authors: Abhishek  , Mehta P. V. , Patel A. P. , Bhanvadia A. S. , Yadav Suwa Lal , Singh Dhirender Pratap , Birla Devilal
Published: July 2023

Direct seeded rice (DSR) cultivation has received considerable attention due to its economic and labor-saving benefits. However, inadequate nutrient availability, particularly micronutrients, remains a significant constraint in achieving optimal crop growth and yield in direct seeded rice system. This research paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the impact of iron and zinc fertilization on yield, productivity and nutritional quality of direct seeded rice. This experiment was conducted at Experimental Farm, Regional Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, during kharif season of the year 2022 with twelve treatments of iron and zinc fertilization strategies viz. nutripriming, foliar application and soil drenching which were replicated thrice in randomized block design (RBD). In the treatments of nutripriming, seed were soaked in 0.5% solutions of iron sulphate and zinc sulphate individually and also in combination for 12 hrs. In other treatments, solutions of 0.5% concentration of iron sulphate and zinc sulphate were applied through foliar application at 30 and 50 DAS and soil drenching. Soil drenching was done by adding nutrient solutions (0.5% of iron sulphate and zinc sulphate each) directly on the rice sown lines of the plots. Findings demonstrate that targeted application of micronutrients (Fe and Zn) significantly enhanced the DSR performance in form of growth parameters, yield attributes, yield and nutrient content of grain and straw. Among all the treatments, (T5) nutripriming of direct seeded rice with 0.5% iron sulphate plus 0.5% zinc sulphate for 12 hours before sowing along with recommended dose of fertilizers has been found best in terms of plant height, panicles per m2, yield and Fe and Zn content in seed and straw of rice.
Patents and Regulatory Exclusivities on GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Authors: Alhiary Rasha , Kesselheim Aaron S. , Gabriele Sarah , Beall Reed F. , Tu S. Sean , Feldman William B.
Published: July 2023

Importance

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists were first approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in 2005. Demand for these drugs has increased rapidly in recent years, as indications have expanded, but they remain expensive.

Objective

To analyze how manufacturers of brand-name GLP-1 receptor agonists have used the patent and regulatory systems to extend periods of market exclusivity.

Evidence Review

The annual US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Approved Drug Products With Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations was used to identify GLP-1 receptor agonists approved from 2005 to 2021 and to record patents and nonpatent statutory exclusivities listed for each product. Google Patents was used to extract additional data on patents, including whether each was obtained on the delivery device or another aspect of the product. The primary outcome was the duration of expected protection from generic competition, defined as the time elapsed from FDA approval until expiration of the last-to-expire patent or regulatory exclusivity.

Findings

On the 10 GLP-1 receptor agonists included in the cohort, drug manufacturers listed with the FDA a median of 19.5 patents (IQR, 9.0-25.8) per product, including a median of 17 patents (IQR, 8.3-22.8) filed before FDA approval and 1.5 (IQR, 0-2.8) filed after FDA approval. Fifty-four percent of all patents listed on GLP-1 receptor agonists were on the delivery devices rather than active ingredients. Manufacturers augmented patent protection with a median of 2 regulatory exclusivities (IQR, 0-3) obtained at approval and 1 (IQR, 0.3-4.3) added after approval. The median total duration of expected protection after FDA approval, when accounting for both preapproval and postapproval patents and regulatory exclusivities, was 18.3 years (IQR, 16.0-19.4). No generic firm has successfully challenged patents on GLP-1 receptor agonists to gain FDA approval.

Conclusions and Relevance

Patent and regulatory reform is needed to ensure timely generic entry of GLP-1 receptor agonists to the market.
Urine Drug Screening in a Telehealth Setting for the Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Williams Arthur Robin , Rowe Christopher , Gallagher Ryan , Aronowitz Shoshana V. , Diamond-Reivich, Jon , Bisaga Adam
Published: July 2023

Importance

Amid rapid and widespread adoption of telehealth-based opioid treatment (TBOT), there is an urgent need for rigorous studies exploring the feasibility and characteristics of urine drug screening (UDS).

Objective

To investigate administration patterns and results of UDS to assess feasibility of UDS and patient outcomes in a TBOT setting.

Design

This observational cohort study was conducted between January 1, 2021, and December 6, 2022, and included patients with opioid use disorder treated in Ophelia, a TBOT treatment platform in 14 states. Data analysis was performed from January to March 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Number and percentage of patients with UDS within 30, 90, and 180 days of intake, grouped by adherence to clinical protocols. Associations were assessed between baseline characteristics and UDS completion and opioid positivity in first 30 days using χ2 tests. Baseline and 180-day follow-up UDS results were compared using McNemar tests.

Results

Among 3395 patients (mean [SD] age, 38.2 [9.3] years, mostly male [54.1%], non-Hispanic White [81.5%], urban-residing [80.3%], and cash-pay at intake [74.0%]), 2782 (83.3%) completed a UDS within 30 days (90.0% among protocol-adherent patients, 67.0% among protocol-nonadherent patients). A total of 2750 of 2817 (97.6%) patients retained more than 90 days completed 1 or more UDS, as did 2307 of 2314 (99.7%) patients retained more than 180 days. Younger patients, patients of a racial and ethnic minority group, those living in urban areas, and cash-pay patients were less likely to complete a UDS in the first 30 days. Buprenorphine positivity increased (from 96.9% to 98.4%, P = .004) and opioid positivity declined (from 7.9% to 3.3%, P < .001) over time.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of patients with opioid use disorder receiving buprenorphine in a remote care environment, UDS was highly feasible, though early UDS completion rates varied across demographic subgroups. The prevalence of unexpected UDS results was low and declined over time in treatment.
Global Association of the COVID-19 Pandemic With Pediatric Clinical Trial Publication
Authors: Grantham-Hill Sarah , Eyre Michael , Ramanan Athimalaipet V. , Modi Neena , de Wildt Saskia N. , Lim Ming
Published: July 2023

This cross-sectional study investigates the association of the COVID-19 pandemic with rates of pediatric clinical trial publication.
Rise of the Chromodomain Helicase DNA‐Binding (CHD) Chromatin Remodelling Machines
Authors: Alendar Andrej
Published: July 2023

Vital processes such as transcription, repair, replication and recombination continuously shape cellular chromatin landscape. The chromodomain helicase DNA‐binding (CHD) family of enzymes regulate chromatin dynamics by utilising energy from ATP hydrolysis to alter nucleosomal position, structure and composition, thereby modulating accessibility of the underlying DNA sequence. The CHD enzymes are highly conserved in evolution, and genetic studies in fungi, plants and animals demonstrate their critical roles in regulation of cellular identity and fate and organismal development. Advances in genomic studies over the past two decades led to the identification of frequent DNA copy‐number alterations, mutations and aberrant expression of CHDs in human malignancies and various disorders, highlighting their importance as relevant biomarkers or targets for therapeutic intervention.

Key Concepts

CHD family of enzymes (CHD1‐9) are evolutionary conserved ATP‐dependent chromatin remodelers that mobilise nucleosomes to regulate DNA‐templated processes, such as transcription, replication and repair. They are critical for normal organismal development and are frequently mutated in human disorders and cancers.

Chromodomain helicase DNA‐binding proteins (CHD1‐9) are evolutionary conserved family of ATP‐dependent chromatin remodelers that mobilise nucleosomes to regulate DNA‐templated processes such as transcription, replication and DNA repair.

CHD enzymes share a common domain structure: two N‐terminal chromodomains, a central ATPase/helicase domain, and a C‐terminal DNA‐binding domain.

CHD proteins play crucial roles in diverse cellular processes, including embryonic development, stem cell maintenance and differentiation, and tissue‐specific gene expression.

Dysregulation of CHD proteins has been associated with various human diseases, including cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders.

CHD proteins are attractive targets for the development of new therapies for diseases associated with chromatin dysfunction. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the function of CHD proteins may pave the way for the development of new drugs that target these proteins and improve the treatment of a variety of human diseases.
Effects of haloperidol on peripheral erythrocytes and brain neurotransmitter levels of juvenile African Sharptooth Catfish Clarias gariepinus
Authors: Chiejina Chike Obinna , Ikeh Ifeanyi Mulumba , Enebe Florence A. , Aguzie Ifeanyi Oscar , Ajima Malachy Nwigwe Okechukwu , Ali Daoud , Kumar Gokhlesh , Nwani Christopher Didigwu
Published: July 2023

Objective

The study investigated the effects of haloperidol on peripheral erythrocytes and brain neurotransmitter levels of juvenile African Sharptooth Catfish Clarias gariepinus.

Methods

Juveniles were exposed to different concentrations of haloperidol (0.12, 0.24, and 0.48 mg/L) for 15 days and subsequently withdrawn from the drug for 5 days. Blood samples from the fish on days 1, 5, 10, and 15 and after the 5-day withdrawal period were analyzed for mutagenic changes, after which the fish were sacrificed. The brain was sampled for serotonergic and dopaminergic analyses.

Result

There was formation of micronuclei in the peripheral fish blood, which increased as the duration and concentrations of the drug increased. The drug significantly reduced the serotonin activity but increased dopamine activity. Some of the studied parameters, however, recovered from the effects of the drug after the 5-day withdrawal period.

Conclusion

Haloperidol is toxic to fish, and its use in the environment should be guarded to avoid adverse impacts on nontarget species like fish.
Adaptive fuzzy finite‐time formation asymptotic tracking control for nonholonomic multirobot systems with inputs quantization
Authors: Dong Shijie , Li Yongming
Published: July 2023

This paper investigates the finite‐time formation tracking control problem for nonholonomic multirobot systems with inputs quantization. The fuzzy logic systems (FLSs) and adaptive method are introduced to approximate unknown nonlinear functions and parameters. Multirobot needs to keep safe and effective communicating range, the barrier function and prescribed performance method are employed to ensure collision avoidance and connectivity maintenance. Then, in order to make each robot more precisely and quickly track referenced leader's trajectory and consider the finite channel bandwidth in practical applications, the travel range of robots can be maintained at more secure region and formation can operate normally within the given bandwidth. By combining the command filter and finite‐time theory, a novel decentralized finite‐time formation asymptotic tracking (FTFAT) control strategy is further proposed based on inputs quantization technology, it guarantees that all signals are bounded and the formation tracking errors asymptotically converge to zero in finite‐time. Finally, the practicability of FTFAT strategy is demonstrated absolutely for nonholonomic multirobot systems.
Significance of Current Collectors for High Performance Conventional Lithium‐Ion Batteries: A Review
Authors: Li Hang , Wang Li , Song Youzhi , Zhang Zhiguo , Zhang Hao , Du Aimin , He Xiangming
Published: July 2023

Conventional lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) are constantly evolving to improve their electrochemical performance and safety. In the past decade, research on electrode and electrolyte materials has significantly promoted the development of conventional LIBs. However, the current collector (CC) in conventional LIBs has not received sufficient attention. As a transfer unit that collects and disperses electrons from electrodes and transports them to the load, the performance of the CC significantly affects the performance of LIBs. This article reviews the impact of the CC on the electrochemical performance and safety of conventional LIBs in four aspects: CC requirements, manufacturing process, surface coating modification, and multifunctionalized CCs. Meanwhile, this review provides an objective summary and prospect on the transition from single‐functionality to multifunctionality requirements for CC, as well as the future needs for CC development and the technical hurdles that should be overcome. The article focuses on providing a detailed insight into the important impact of CCs on conventional LIBs, which has not received enough attention in the past. It emphasizes the need and urgency for the development of multifunctional CCs to provide new ideas for improving the performance of conventional LIBs.
A Comparative Inflammation‐on‐a‐Chip with a Complete 3D Interface: Pharmacological Applications in COPD‐Induced Neutrophil Migration
Authors: Kim Soohyun , Lee Sung Kyun , Son Ahryeong , Lee Jong‐Hwan , Kim Hong Gi
Published: July 2023

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a slow‐progressing inflammatory lung disease that is associated with high mortality and disability. There is a lack of appropriate preclinical models of COPD, which hampers drug discovery efforts. Herein, a comparative inflammation‐on‐a‐chip (IoC) is developed with a complete 3D interface without the formation of any micropillar and phaseguide structures that replicated chemoattractant‐induced neutrophil transendothelial migration (NTEM), a key feature of COPD. The IoC model is used to evaluate the pharmacological effects of CXCR2 inhibitors (MK‐7123, AZD5069, and SB225002) on the migration of neutrophil‐like cells in the presence of plasma samples from patients with COPD. This is the first study to evaluate inhibitors of CXCR2‐dependent NTEM in a comparative IoC model that mimics the physiological 3D microenvironment, consisting of an endothelial barrier, extracellular compartment, and inflammatory conditions. This IoC model will be useful to investigate COPD severity using patient samples, and will aid basic and translational research involving NTEM.
Investigating the Superior Performance of Hard Carbon Anodes in Sodium‐Ion Compared With Lithium‐ and Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Guo Zhenyu , Xu Zhen , Xie Fei , Jiang Jinglin , Zheng Kaitian , Alabidun Sarat , Crespo‐Ribadeneyra Maria , Hu Yong‐Sheng , Au Heather , Titirici Maria‐Magdalena
Published: July 2023

Emerging sodium‐ion batteries (NIBs) and potassium‐ion batteries (KIBs) show promise in complementing lithium‐ion battery (LIB) technology and diversifying the battery market. Hard carbon is a potential anode candidate for LIBs, NIBs, and KIBs due to its high capacity, sustainability, wide availability, and stable physicochemical properties. Herein, a series of hard carbons is synthesized by hydrothermal carbonization and subsequent pyrolysis at different temperatures to finely tune their structural properties. When tested as anodes, the hard carbons exhibit differing ion‐storage trends for Li, Na, and K, with NIBs achieving the highest reversible capacity. Extensive materials and electrochemical characterizations are carried out to study the correlation of structural features with electrochemical performance and to explain the specific mechanisms of alkali‐ion storage in hard carbons. In addition, the best‐performing hard carbon is tested against a sodium cathode Na3V2(PO4)3 in a Na‐ion pouch cell, displaying a high power density of 2172 W kg−1 at an energy density of 181.5 Wh kg−1 (based on the total weight of active materials in both anode and cathode). The Na‐ion pouch cell also shows stable ultralong‐term cycling (9000 h or 5142 cycles) and demonstrates the promising potential of such materials as sustainable, scalable anodes for beyond Li‐batteries.
Suppression of Interphase Dissolution Via Solvent Molecule Tuning for Sodium Metal Batteries
Authors: Liu Xuyang , Zheng Xueying , Dai Yiming , Li Bin , Wen Jiayun , Zhao Tong , Luo Wei
Published: July 2023

Solvent molecule tuning is used to alter the redox potentials of solvents or ion‐solvent binding energy for high‐voltage or low‐temperature electrolytes. Herein, an electrolyte design strategy that effectively suppresses solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) dissolution and passivates highly‐reactive metallic Na anode via solvent molecule tuning is proposed. With rationally lengthened phosphate backbones with ─CH2─ units, the low‐solvation tris(2‐ethylhexyl) phosphate (TOP) molecule effectively weakens the solvation ability of carbonate‐based electrolytes, reduces the free solvent ratio, and enables an anion‐enriched primary Na+ ion solvation sheath. The decreased free solvent and compact lower‐solubility interphase established in this electrolyte prevent electrodes from continuous SEI dissolution and parasitic reactions at both room temperature (RT) and high temperature (HT). As a result, the Na/Na3V2(PO4)3 cell with the new electrolyte achieves impressive cycling stability of 95.7% capacity retention after 1800 cycles at 25 °C and 62.1% capacity retention after 700 cycles at 60 °C. Moreover, the TOP molecule not only maintains the nonflammable feature of phosphate but also attains higher thermal stability, which endows the electrolyte with high safety and thermal stability. This design concept for electrolytes offers a promising path to long‐cycling and high‐safety sodium metal batteries.
Humidity/Oxygen‐Insensitive Organic Synaptic Transistors Based on Optical Radical Effect
Authors: Liu Dapeng , Zhang Junyao , Shi Qianqian , Sun Tongrui , Xu Yutong , Li Li , Tian Li , Xiong Lize , Zhang Jianhua , Huang Jia
Published: July 2023

For most organic synaptic transistors based on the charge trapping effect, different atmosphere conditions lead to significantly different device performance. Some devices even lose the synaptic responses under vacuum or inert atmosphere. The stable device performance of these organic synaptic transistors under varied working environments with different humidity and oxygen levels can be a challenge. Herein, a moisture‐ and oxygen‐insensitive organic synaptic device based on the organic semiconductor and photoinitiator molecules is reported. Unlike the widely reported charge trapping effect, the photoinduced free radical is utilized to realize the photosynaptic performance. The resulting synaptic transistor displays typical excitatory postsynaptic current, paired‐pulse facilitation, learning, and forgetting behaviors. Furthermore, the device exhibits decent and stable photosynaptic performances under high humidity and vacuum conditions. This type of organic synaptic device also demonstrates high potential in ultraviolet B perception based on its environmental stability and broad ultraviolet detection capability. Finally, the contrast‐enhanced capability of the device is successfully validated by the single‐layer‐perceptron/double‐layer network based Modified National Institute of Standards and Technology pattern recognition. This work could have important implications for the development of next‐generation environment‐stable organic synaptic devices and systems.
Magnetic Manipulation of Superparamagnetic Colloids in Droplet‐Based Optical Devices
Authors: Mattich Iacopo , Sendra Joan , Galinski Henning , Isapour Golnaz , Demirörs Ahmet F. , Lattuada Marco , Schuerle Simone , Studart André R.
Published: July 2023

Magnetically assembled superparamagnetic colloids are exploited as fluid mixers, swimmers, and delivery systems in several microscale applications. The encapsulation of such colloids in droplets may open new opportunities to build magnetically controlled displays and optical components. Here, the assembly of superparamagnetic colloids inside droplets under rotating magnetic fields is studied, and this phenomenon is exploited to create functional optical devices. Colloids are encapsulated in monodisperse droplets produced by microfluidics and magnetically assembled into dynamic 2D clusters. Using an optical microscope equipped with a magnetic control setup, the effect of the magnetic field strength and rotational frequency on the size, stability, and dynamics of 2D colloidal clusters inside droplets is investigated. The results show that cluster size and stability depend on the magnetic forces acting on the structure under the externally imposed field. By rotating the cluster in specific orientations, it is possible to magnetically control the effective refractive index and the transmission of light through the colloid‐laden droplets, thus demonstrating the potential of the encapsulated colloids in optical applications.
Skin‐Integrated, Stretchable Electronic Skin for Human Motion Capturing and Pressure Mapping
Authors: Zhao Ling , Lin Zihong , Lai King Wai Chiu
Published: July 2023

Flexible and wearable electronics have been widely investigated for the extensive applications in real life. Piezoresistive based sensor is one of the common flexible electronics that could be utilized as electronic skin. By simply transducing the external pressure or stretching into resistor signal and integrated with flexible substrate and advanced functional sensing material, piezoresistive based sensors have been applied as the electronic skin. Here, a thin, skin‐integrated, and flexible electronic skin based on piezoresistive working mode is developed. Ultra‐thin polydimethylsiloxane substrate integrated with serpentine‐like Cu electrode could avoid mechanical failing of the device when it is stretched, bended, or twisted. By adopting the advanced function material, MXene, graphene and Ecoflex mixed composite, the electronic skin could sense not only a wide range of pressure from 20.8 to 132 kPa, but also stretching rate from 0% to 20%, allowing the potential application in human motion capturing. Furthermore, a 4 × 4 arrayed electronic skin is fabricated, and demonstrates the prospective application in pressure mapping.
Revealing the Valence Evolution of Metal Element in Heterostructures for Ultra‐High Power Li‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Tao Shusheng , Cai Jieming , Cao Ziwei , Song Bai , Deng Wentao , Liu Youcai , Hou Hongshuai , Zou Guoqiang , Ji Xiaobo
Published: July 2023

The difficulty in matching cathode and anode kinetics due to slow ion transport in anodes constrains the development of lithium‐ion capacitors. Heterogeneous structures with built‐in electric field can promote lithium‐ion migration and improve the anode reaction kinetics. However, the valence evolution of metal elements in heterostructures during charging/discharging processes is often overlooked. Inspired by theoretical calculations, transition metal selenides heterostructures (FeSe2/CoSe2) with low migration energy barriers (E
b = 0.35 eV) are successfully engineered and fabricated. As expected, the designed heterostructure material exhibits outstanding rate performance (512 mAh g−1 at 30 A g−1) and ultra‐high pseudocapacitance contribution (98.02% at 1.0 mV s−1), exceeding the state‐of‐the‐art values for anodes. Impressively, synchrotron X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (SXAS) and ex situ XPS find that the valence states of the Fe and Co elements in the heterogeneous structure gradually increase as charging and discharging proceeds, inducing a continuous climb in reversible specific capacity, while further reducing the migration energy barrier in the heterogeneous structure (E
b = 0.20 eV). This work reveals that the valence states of iron and cobalt elements increase as charging and discharging proceeds, providing theoretical guidance for improving the anode kinetics and revealing the capacity rise mechanism of other transition metal compounds.
An evaluation of clinical presentation and genetic testing approaches for patients with neuromuscular disorders
Authors: Rosenberg Amanda , Tian Cuixia , He Hua , Ulm Elizabeth , Collins Ruff Kathleen , B. Nagaraj Chinmayee
Published: July 2023

Inherited neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) are a large group of genetic conditions characterized by impaired peripheral nerve, motor neuron, neuromuscular junction, or skeletal muscle function. These conditions are also known to have clinical and genetic heterogeneity and variable ages of onset. Clinical evaluation for NMDs has increasingly incorporated molecular genetics. However, genetic testing is complicated by the variety of testing options and the ambiguity of NMD phenotypes. Examining test selection and yield may elucidate testing recommendations and improve the diagnostic journey for these patients. This retrospective chart review evaluated the clinical presentations, genetic testing approaches, and diagnostic outcomes of 155 patients with suspected NMDs at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. A total of 262 individual tests were ordered, averaging 1.7 tests per patient. The clinic utilized 26 separate genetic tests, with test yields ranging from 0% to 66%. Overall, 21% of patients received a genetic diagnosis. Of all the clinical findings evaluated, elevated CPK levels with or without muscle weakness were the most informative symptoms correlated with a diagnostic result. This study highlights several genetic testing considerations for NMDs, including the variability of diagnostic outcomes. This knowledge is relevant to clinicians and patients, especially during the pretest counseling and consenting process.
Decay rates of arboreal and terrestrial nests of Eastern chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) in the Bugoma Central Forest Reserve, Uganda: Implications for population size estimates
Authors: Romani Toni , Mundry Roger , Shaban Gerald Mayanja , Konarzewski Marek , Namaganda Mary , Hobaiter Catherine , Gruber Thibaud , Hicks Thurston Cleveland
Published: July 2023

Chimpanzees were once thought to sleep primarily in the trees, but recent studies indicate that some populations also construct terrestrial night nests. This behavior has relevance not only to understanding the behavioral diversity ofPan troglodytes, but also to the conservation of the species, given that nest encounter rates are often used to estimate great ape population densities. A proper estimate of decay rates for ground nests is necessary for converting the encounter rate of nests to the density of weaned chimpanzees. Here we present the results of the first systematic comparative study between the decay rates of arboreal and terrestrial chimpanzee nests, from the Bugoma Central Forest Reserve in western Uganda. We followed the decay of 56 ground and 51 tree nests in eight nest groups between April 2020 and October 2021. For 15 of the ground and 19 of the tree nests, we collected detailed information on the condition of the nests every two weeks; we checked the remaining 73 nests only twice. On average, ground nests lasted 238 days versus 276 days for tree nests (p = 0.05). Of the 107 total nests surveyed, 51% of tree and 64% of ground nests had disappeared after six months. Based on our results, we propose a modification of the formula used to convert nest density into chimpanzee density. Our results highlight the importance of taking into account potential differences in decay rates between ground versus tree nests, which will likely influence our understanding of the distribution of ground nesting behavior in chimpanzee across tropical Africa, as well as our estimations of the densities of ground nesting populations.
The importance of auditory, olfactory, and visual cues for insect foraging in owl monkeys (Aotus nancymaae)
Authors: Breitenbach Rachel , Ambros Samantha , Risko Gabrielle , Arcusa Isabel , Durland Donahou Allison , Wolovich Christy K.
Published: July 2023

Nocturnal mammals have unique sensory adaptations to facilitate foraging at night. Owl monkeys (Aotus spp.) are pair‐living nocturnal platyrrhines adept at capturing insect prey under low‐light conditions. Owl monkeys use acoustic and chemical cues in intraspecific communication and use olfaction to detect fruit as they forage. We conducted an experiment to determine which cues (auditory, olfactory, and visual) Aotus nancymaae rely upon when foraging for insects. We scored the behavior of 23 captive owl monkeys during a series of trials in which monkeys were provided sensory boxes with insect cues either present (experimental box) or absent (control box). Each cue was tested alone and in combination with all other cues (multimodal cues). We used generalized linear mixed models to determine which cues elicited the greatest behavioral response. Owl monkeys approached and spent more time near experimental boxes than control boxes. Male owl monkeys were quicker than their female partners to approach the sensory boxes, suggesting that males may be less neophobic than females. The owl monkeys exhibited behaviors associated with olfaction and foraging (e.g., sneezing, trilling) during trials with multimodal cues and when only olfactory cues were present. When only visual or auditory cues were present, owl monkeys exhibited fewer foraging‐related behaviors. After approaching a sensory box, however, they often touched boxes containing visual cues. A. nancymaae may rely on olfactory cues at night to detect a food source from several meters away and then rely more on visual cues once they are closer to the food source. Their use of sensory cues during insect foraging differs from nocturnal strepsirrhines, possibly reflecting physiological constraints associated with phylogeny, given that owl monkeys evolved nocturnality secondarily from a more recent diurnal ancestor.
Mechanically Interlocked [2]Rotaxane Aerogels with Tunable Morphologies and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Luo Zhen , Zhang Xinhai , Zhao Jun , Bai Ruixue , Wang Chunyu , Wang Yuanhao , Zhao Dong , Yan Xuzhou
Published: July 2023

Mechanical bonds have been utilized as promising motifs to construct mechanically interlocked aerogels (MIAs) with mechanical adaptivity and multifunctionality. However, fabricating such aerogels with not only precise chemical structures but also dynamic features remains challenging. Herein, we present MIAs carrying dense [2]rotaxane units, which bestow both the stability and flexibility of the aerogel network. Owing to the stable chemical structure of a [2]rotaxane, MIAs possessing a precise and full‐scale mechanically interlocked network could be fabricated with the aid of diverse solvents. In addition, the dynamic nature of the [2]rotaxane resulted in morphologies and mechanical performances of the MIAs that can be dramatically modulated under chemical stimuli. We hope that the structure–property relationship in MIAs will facilitate the development of mechanically interlocked materials and provide novel opportunities toward constructing smart materials with multifunctionalities.
Carbene Formation or Reduction of the Diazo Functional Group? An Unexpected Solvent‐Dependent Reactivity of Cyclic Diazo Imides
Authors: Hussain Yaseen , Empel Claire , Koenigs Rene M. , Chauhan Pankaj
Published: July 2023

The control of the reactivity of diazo compounds is commonly achieved by the choice of a suitable catalyst, e.g. via stabilization of singlet carbenes or radical intermediates. Herein, we report on the light‐promoted reactivity of cyclic diazo imides with thiols, where the choice of solvent results in two fundamentally different reaction pathways. In dichloromethane (DCM), a carbene is formed initially and engages in a cascade C−H functionalization/thiolation reaction to deliver indane‐fused pyrrolidines in good to excellent yields. When switching to acetonitrile solvent, the carbene pathway is shut down and an unusual reduction of the diazo compound occurs under otherwise identical reaction conditions, where the aryl thiol acts as reductant. A combined set of experimental and computational studies was carried out to obtain mechanistic understanding and to support that indane formation proceeds via the insertion of a triplet carbene, while the reduction of diazo imides proceeds via an electron transfer process.
Xylene Synthesis Through Tandem CO2 Hydrogenation and Toluene Methylation Over a Composite ZnZrO Zeolite Catalyst
Authors: Shang Xin , Zhuo Hongying , Han Qiao , Yang Xiaofeng , Hou Guangjin , Liu Guodong , Su Xiong , Huang Yanqiang , Zhang Tao
Published: July 2023

Selective synthesis of specific value‐added aromatics from CO2 hydrogenation is of paramount interest for mitigating energy and climate problems caused by CO2 emission. Herein, we report a highly active composite catalyst of ZnZrO and HZSM‐5 (ZZO/Z5‐SG) for xylene synthesis from CO2 hydrogenation via a coupling reaction in the presence of toluene, achieving a xylene selectivity of 86.5 % with CO2 conversion of 10.5 %. A remarkably high space time yield of xylene could reach 215 mg gcat−1 h−1, surpassing most reported catalysts for CO2 hydrogenation. The enhanced performance of ZZO/Z5‐SG could be due to high dispersion and abundant oxygen vacancies of the ZZO component for CO2 adsorption, more feasible hydrogen activation and transfer due to the close interaction between the two components, and enhanced stability of the formate intermediate. The consumption of methoxy and methanol from the deep hydrogenation of formate by introduced toluene also propels an oriented conversion of CO2.