bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological observation during the daytime of elderly patients with advanced dementia cared for with and without artificial nutrition by percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy
Authors: Yamaguchi Kaori , Hoshiyama Minoru , Takano Masanori
Published: November 2010

Aim:  To clarify the activity of demented patients cared for with and without artificial nutrition in a care facility, sequential biological observation was applied using electroencephalograms (EEG), electromyograms (EMG) and electro‐oculograms (EOG).

Methods:  Awake and sleep patterns and spontaneous swallowing were measured during the daytime in 13 patients with advanced dementia who could orally intake meals (OR patients), and 13 patients with advanced dementia, who received artificial nutrition by percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG patients).

Results:  The awake/sleep pattern fluctuated during daytime in OR and PEG patients, but a fully awake state was relatively preserved around meal times in OR patients. The number of spontaneous swallowing was small in PEG patients (0.1 ± 0.3/h), and the value correlated with the Barthel Index in OR patients.

Conclusion:  Continuous recording of biological activity in demented patients could be informative in providing an overview of their activities. The present results disclosed that meal times were the limited periods keeping OR patients awake consistently, while there was no opportunity for such periods for PEG patients. The number of spontaneous swallowing was especially small in PEG patients, although low Mini‐Mental State Examination and Barthel Index scores and poor awake state during daytime were considerable in those patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 221–228.
VISTA-Rehab: A Resource for Stroke Rehabilitation Trials
Authors: Ali Myzoon , Ashburn Ann , Bowen Audrey , Brodie Eric , Corr Susan , Drummond Avril , Edmans Judi , Gladman John , Kalra Lalit , Langhorne Peter , Lees Kennedy R. , Lincoln Nadina , Logan Pip , Mead Gillian , Patchick Emma , Pollock Alex , Pomeroy Val , Sackley Catherine , Sunnerhagen Katherina S. , van Vliet Paulette , Walker Marion , Brady Marian ,   on behalf of the VISTA-Rehab Investigators
Published: November 2010

Background

Stroke rehabilitation is a complex intervention. Many factors influence the interaction between the patient and the elements of the intervention. Rehabilitation interventions are aimed at altering different domains of patient outcome including body functions, activity and participation. As a consequence, randomised clinical trials in this area are difficult to design. We developed an archive of stroke rehabilitation trials (VISTA-Rehab) to act as a resource to help trialists model and design future rehabilitation studies.

Methods

We developed specific eligibility criteria for the entry of stroke rehabilitation trials into the archive. We established a Steering Committee to oversee projects and publications and commenced the recruitment of rehabilitation trials into this resource.

Results

As of August 2009, VISTA-Rehab contains data from 23 stroke rehabilitation trials (>3400 patients). Demographic data, including age [median=73, interquartile range (63,79)], gender (male=53%) and initial dependency [median baseline Barthel index score=6, interquartile range ( 9 , 19 )], are available for all patients. Outcome measures include the modified Rankin Scale, Barthel Index, Rivermead Motor Assessment, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, General Health Questionnaire and Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living Scale.

Conclusion

VISTA-Rehab expands the Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive to include rehabilitation trials. Anonymised data can be used to examine questions specific to stroke rehabilitation and to generate novel hypotheses.
Carotid Artery Stenting: Relationship between Experience and Complication Rate
Authors: Smout Jonathan , Macdonald Sumaira , Weir Graeme , Stansby Gerard
Published: November 2010

To investigate the evidence for the relationship between volume and outcome for carotid artery stenting. We performed a systematic review of the literature to examine the influence of experience and/or volume on outcome for carotid artery stenting. The primary search strategy was to identify studies presenting year-on-year data. The Pubmed, Embase, Medline and the Cochrane Collaboration databases were searched. Studies with over 100 interventions were included. The main outcome measure compared across studies was all stroke/death. Where possible, comparable data were pooled and analysed using meta-regression techniques. It was not possible to perform a standard systematic review and meta-analysis because of the lack of data from randomised studies. When redundant studies were excluded, four sizeable case series and one registry met the inclusion criteria. When the case series results were pooled, the χ2-test for trend demonstrated a significant reduction in the combined stroke and death rate over time. Meta-regression analysis of case series data allowed the setting of thresholds for ‘acceptable’ stroke/death rates. Where year-on-year data are available, published stroke and death rates for carotid artery stenting show improvements over time. While advances in technology and pharmacology may in part be responsible, temporal improvement in outcomes demonstrated in both early and contemporary time-frames together with the consistency of the results suggests the presence of a learning curve. In active carotid artery stenting units, it may take almost 2-years before the stroke/death rates fall below an arbitrary 5% threshold.
Measuring the Quality of Dysphagia Management Practices following Stroke: A Systematic Review
Authors: Luker Julie A. , Wall Kylie , Bernhardt Julie , Edwards Ian , Grimmer-Somers Karen
Published: November 2010

Adherence to recommended clinical practices improves stroke outcomes. As a result, stroke clinicians are increasingly expected to evaluate the quality of the care they provide so that areas for improvement can be targeted. Finding the best method to evaluate the quality of dysphagia management can be challenging.

Aim

To systematically review process indicators used to assess the quality of care provided to patients with dysphagia following acute stroke and examine the level of evidence underpinning these indicators.

Methods

Databases were systematically searched to identify publications (January 2006–April 2009) that describe process indicators relating to the clinical management of acute stroke-related dysphagia. Relevant process indicators were extracted from the reviewed publications for detailed post hoc analysis including supporting evidence and alignment to the current Australian and English stroke guidelines.

Results

Title and abstract review found 150 potential studies. Full-text review resulted in 25 publications that met the study's inclusion criteria. Thirteen process indicators were identified in the literature that related to the initial assessment, clinical management, rehabilitation and discharge planning for patients with acute stroke-related dysphagia. These processes were supported by levels of evidence ranging from high ‘level 1’ (8%) down to ‘expert opinion’ evidence (46%). Two process indicators did not align to recommendations in the clinical guidelines. This systematic review underpins informed selection of process indicators for evaluating the quality of dysphagia management following stroke. The selection of quality indicators is complicated by equivocal supporting evidence; however, indicators should reflect expected local practices, align with national stroke guidelines and be feasible for clinical auditing.
Design of the China Epidemiology Research in Subarachnoid Haemorrhage (CHERISH) Study
Authors: Shiue Ivy , Zhang Jing Fen , Arima Hisatomi , Wang Ji Guang , Liu Guo Rong , Li Yue Chun , Wang Min , Cheng Guo Juan , Anderson Craig S. ,   for the CHERISH Collaborative Group
Published: November 2010

Rationale

Limited epidemiological data exist on subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) in China. Effective prevention requires knowledge of the rates and risk factors for SAH the most lethal type of stroke that most often affects younger adults. We report the methods and the initial experience of a new study to address this deficiency.

Aims

To determine the incidence, risk factors, management and outcomes of SAH.

Design

The CHina Epidemiology Research In Subarachnoid Haemorrhage (CHERISH) is a prospective, population-based, case–control study in a defined region (study population 1.7 million) of the city of Baotou in Inner Mongolia, China.

Methods

Cases of spontaneous SAH are identified using standard definitions through prospective surveillance of all major acute care hospitals with neurology/neurosurgery facilities, small hospitals/clinics, and the single city crematorium over a 2-year period. Verbal autopsy procedures are used to ascertain the probable causes of deaths outside of hospital. For each case, two nonrelative controls without SAH are matched by age (5-year strata), gender, and district of residence. Data are collected on socio-demography, lifestyle factors, and medical history, and blood is taken for the extraction and storage of DNA. Details of the clinical features, presentation, and management of SAH are obtained from cases, and survivors provide details on health care utilisation, physical function, health-related quality of life, and complications, at 6-months.

Study outcomes

The primary outcomes are overall, age- and gender-specific incidence, relative (odds ratios) and population-attributable risks for defined exposures, and 28-day and 6-month case fatality ratios and other outcomes.

Conclusions

Preliminary experience confirms the completeness of the surveillance methods, with no clear missed out-of-hospital cases of SAH with sudden death, and of high participation and reliable data collection procedures. CHERISH is well placed to provide reliable estimates of the burden of SAH in China.
Electron-Like Scattering of Positronium
Authors: Brawley S. J. , Armitage S. , Beale J. , Leslie D. E. , Williams A. I. , Laricchia G.
Published: November 2010

The atom formed from an electron and positron interacts with molecules almost as if it were a free electron.
Effects of nutrients and water levels on emergent macrophyte biomass in a prairie marsh
Authors: Neill Christopher
Published: November 2010

Nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers were added over two growing seasons to marshes dominated by whitetop grass (Scolochloa festucacea) or cattail (Typha glauca) in a prairie lacustrine marsh to assess nutrient limitation and the interaction of nutrient limitation with water depth. For each species, stands were selected at the deep and shallow extremes of its water depth range. Water levels were high during the first year of fertilization and low during the second year, exposing the fertilized stands to a variety of water depths. Nitrogen limited growth in whitetop and cattail marshes. Water level, by controlling whether the soil was flooded or the water table was below the soil surface, affected growth and the degree of nitrogen limitation. In whitetop marshes, nitrogen increased biomass more when the soil was flooded or when standing water was deeper and in cattail marshes, it increased biomass more under intermediate water depths (approximately 0–20 cm) than under more deeply flooded (20–40 cm) or dry conditions. Nitrogen reduced biomass in whitetop marshes the second year, apparently because growth was inhibited by fallen litter from the previous year. Nitrogen did not limit cattail marsh biomass in the driest locations during a year of low water levels. Phosphorus caused a small increase in growth of both species after 2 years. Changes of nitrogen limitation with flooding suggest that annual water level fluctuations, by creating alternating flooded and dry conditions, may influence the primary production of emergent macrophytes through effects on nitrogen cycling.
The branching of Trichomanes proliferum (Hymenophyllaceae)
Authors: Hébant-Mauri R.
Published: November 2010

The general morphology, anatomy, and meristem histology of Trichomanes proliferum were studied in order to explain the morphogenesis of this fern. As opposed to Bierhorst's conclusions, T. proliferum was found to be a typical fern with normal tetrahedral shoot apical cells and lenticular leaf apical cells. The leaf is a lateral production of the shoot apical meristem. This species is similar morphologically to other species in the genus Trichomanes: the shoot apical meristems on the creeping stolons produce "lateral systems," composed of a leaf and a bud, which are extraaxillary, as in other Trichomanes species with a creeping filiform stolon. The unique morphology of this fern is due to two supplementary branching systems: a lateral branching of the stolon, which is leafless at the fork, and an epiphyllous budding, which results in the formation of additional leaves by a different process of development. Key words: fern, branching, morphogenesis, histogenesis, epiphyllous buds.
Specificity of association between Bacillus isolates and genotypes of Lolium perenne and Trifolium repens from a grass – legume pasture
Authors: Chanway C. P. , Holl F. B. , Turkington R.
Published: November 2010

Specificity between plants and associated rhizosphere bacteria was investigated using species and genotypic mixtures of Lolium perenne L. (perennial ryegrass) and Trifolium repens L. (white clover) inoculated with Bacillus strains isolated from rhizosphere soil of the pasture plants. The genotypic identity of plants was controlled by using stolon tips (Trifolium) and tillers (Lolium) of three genotypes of each species collected from a 45-year-old permanent pasture. Inoculation of plants in the greenhouse with Bacillus isolates that had coexisted in the field with the Lolium component of a Lolium–Trifolium mixture increased Lolium root and shoot weight. Root and nodule weight of Trifolium in mixture regardless of its genotype was also higher when coexistent Bacillus–Lolium combinations were present. The presence of other coexistent Bacillus–plant or plant–plant combinations did not enhance performance of either pasture species. The identity of the Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar trifolii strains that formed Trifolium root nodules was unaffected by inoculation with Bacillus. Key words: Trifolium repens, Lolium perenne, Bacillus, specificity, rhizosphere, yield.
Effects of disturbance on old-growth Thuja occidentalis at cliff edges
Authors: Larson D. W.
Published: November 2010

Thuja occidentalis L. is abundant along cliff edges and cliff faces of the Niagara Escarpment in southern Ontario, Canada, but declines in frequency away from the cliff edge. Hiking and climbing disturbance is intense in such areas, and therefore a study was done to determine the relationship between forest stand structure and disturbance. In eight undisturbed and eight disturbed transects, a total of 441 trees were sampled for height, diameter, age, mass, and average annual productivity. In undisturbed areas most of these characters declined in value away from the cliff edge, whereas in disturbed areas their values increased. Seedlings were almost totally absent from the disturbed areas. It appears that the extensive elimination of ground cover in the disturbed areas results in the release of constraints on the growth of this species, but recruitment of new individuals into the population is stopped. The disturbed parts of the cliff-edge ecosystem are therefore not self-sustaining, and this has considerable significance in view of the great age shown by many of the trees.
Lengthening But Not Shortening History of Paraspinal Muscle Spindles in the Low Back Alters Their Dynamic Sensitivity
Authors: Cao Dong-Yuan , Pickar Joel G.
Published: November 2010

Proprioception is considered important for maintaining spinal stability and for controlling posture and movement in the low back. Previous studies demonstrate the presence of thixotropic properties in lumbar muscle spindles, wherein a vertebra's positional history alters spindle responsiveness to position and movement. This study investigated whether a vertebra's movement history affects the velocity sensitivity of paraspinal muscle spindles in the low back. Afferent activity from multifidus and longissimus muscle spindles was recorded in the L6dorsal root in 30 anesthetized cats. To alter movement history, a feedback-controlled motor attached to the L6spinous process held (conditioned for 4 s) the L6vertebra at an intermediate position or at positions that either lengthened or shortened the muscles. With the vertebra returned to the intermediate position, resting spindle discharge was measured over the next 0.5 s (static test) and then during a dynamic test consisting of ramp vertebral movement at four velocities (0.2, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 mm/s). Spindle activity during the tests was measured relative to hold-intermediate. For both tests, hold-long decreased and hold-short increased muscle spindle responsiveness. For the static test position responsiveness was not different among the velocity protocols for either hold-long or hold-short ( P = 0.42 and 0.24, respectively). During the dynamic test, hold-long conditioning significantly decreased [ F(3,119)= 7.99, P < 0.001] spindle responsiveness to increasing velocity. Mean velocity sensitivity was 4.44, 3.39, and 1.41 (impulses/s)/(mm/s) for the hold-short, hold-intermediate, and hold-long protocols, respectively. The nearly 2.5-fold decrease in velocity sensitivity following hold-long was significantly less than that for either hold-intermediate ( P = 0.005) or hold-short conditioning ( P < 0.001). Hold-short conditioning had little effect on velocity responses during the dynamic test [ F(3,119)= 0.23, P = 0.87]. In conclusion, only movement histories that stretch but not shorten muscle spindles alter their velocity sensitivity. In the low back, forward flexion and lateral bending postures would likely be the most provocative.
Systems of Generalized Quasivariational Inclusion Problems with Applications in "Equation missing" -Spaces
Authors: Yang Ming-ge , Xu Jiu-ping , Huang Nan-jing
Published: November 2010

We first prove that the product of a family of "Equation missing"-spaces is also an "Equation missing"-space. Then, by using a Himmelberg type fixed point theorem in "Equation missing"-spaces, we establish existence theorems of solutions for systems of generalized quasivariational inclusion problems, systems of variational equations, and systems of generalized quasiequilibrium problems in "Equation missing"-spaces. Applications of the existence theorem of solutions for systems of generalized quasiequilibrium problems to optimization problems are given in "Equation missing"-spaces.
Assessment of mtDNA genetic diversity within the terrapins Pelusios subniger and Pelusios castanoides across the Seychelles islands
Authors: Harris David James , Gerlach Justin , Rocha Sara , Silva Andreia , Dufrenne André , Rocamora Gérard
Published: November 2010

Two terrapin subspecies are currently considered Seychelles endemisms and Critically Endangered according to IUCN criteria, with several conservation measures having been proposed and actively initiated in the recent years. We use molecular data to examine their population diversity and structure across the archipelago and find a complete lack of variation at the mtDNA level. This can be explained by the strong founder effect associated with island colonisation, allied to the low evolution rate described for turtle mtDNA. However, a very recent arrival of Seychellois terrapins to the archipelago by human action cannot be discarded. The use of highly variable markers such as microsatellites and the clarification of their (native or not) status is therefore essential and should be implemented as an urgent priority in species management plans. Some differentiation between the Seychellois and Malagasy P. castanoides is observed but should be taken carefully until geographically broad level sampling across Madagascar is available.
The Avromani-speaking Area in Iran
Authors: Zolfaqari Ardashir
Published: November 2010

One of the difficult tasks of linguistic geography is the clear delimitation of dialectal borders in a multi-dialectal and multi-lingual environment. Western Iran is exactly such a region, hosting a number of Iranian and non-Iranian dialects: Kurdish, Avromani, Gurani, Laki, Kalhori, Luri, Azari Turkish, etc. The demographic situation is rather complicated here as well: along with the localities that are inhabited by a single ethnic group, there are many townships and rural settlements having mixed populations of different ethnic and linguistic backgrounds. In addition, the indiscriminate use of the ethnonym Kurd, applied as a common label to almost all Iranian-speakers of the area, except for, of course, Persians. This paper tries to identify the area populated by the Avromans in the abovementioned region, with possibly accurate statistical data on the number of inhabitants, obtained through the author's personal efforts during several fieldwork periods. This is a part of a larger project on Gurani dialects, including Avromani.
How to Feud and Rebel: 1. Violence-values among the Chechens and Albanians
Authors: Dam Caspar ten
Published: November 2010

This article focuses on so-called violence-values (a composite term coined by the author), the first variable of the author's Brutalisation theory, which combines elements from disciplines ranging from anthropology to military psychology. It forms part of my ongoing research, which explores the values (norms, customs, beliefs), aims (objectives, aspirations, ideologies) and methods (targets, tactics, techniques) of violence by Chechen and Albanian separatists during the last Cold War and first post-Cold war periods, i.e. between the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan on 24 December 1979 and the attack by Osama Bin Laden's Al Qaeda (The Base) network on the United States on 11 September 2001. Through a meticulous exposition—and comparison with international norms—of traditional morals on violence that still are salient in the remarkably similar communities of Chechens and Albanians, the author hopes to underpin his post-constructivist position that a genuine “acting-out” of norms, values and beliefs in vendettas, battles and other contests can shape one's identity, irrespective of whether these attributes are primordial, i.e. factual, or constructed, i.e. invented.
Numerical optimization of gene electrotransfer into muscle tissue
Authors: Zupanic Anze , Corovic Selma , Miklavcic Damijan , Pavlin Mojca
Published: November 2010

Background

Electroporation-based gene therapy and DNA vaccination are promising medical applications that depend on transfer of pDNA into target tissues with use of electric pulses. Gene electrotransfer efficiency depends on electrode configuration and electric pulse parameters, which determine the electric field distribution. Numerical modeling represents a fast and convenient method for optimization of gene electrotransfer parameters. We used numerical modeling, parameterization and numerical optimization to determine the optimum parameters for gene electrotransfer in muscle tissue.

Methods

We built a 3D geometry of muscle tissue with two or six needle electrodes (two rows of three needle electrodes) inserted. We performed a parametric study and optimization based on a genetic algorithm to analyze the effects of distances between the electrodes, depth of insertion, orientation of electrodes with respect to muscle fibers and applied voltage on the electric field distribution. The quality of solutions were evaluated in terms of volumes of reversibly (desired) and irreversibly (undesired) electroporated muscle tissue and total electric current through the tissue.

Results

Large volumes of reversibly electroporated muscle with relatively little damage can be achieved by using large distances between electrodes and large electrode insertion depths. Orienting the electrodes perpendicular to muscle fibers is significantly better than the parallel orientation for six needle electrodes, while for two electrodes the effect of orientation is not so pronounced. For each set of geometrical parameters, the window of optimal voltages is quite narrow, with lower voltages resulting in low volumes of reversibly electroporated tissue and higher voltages in high volumes of irreversibly electroporated tissue. Furthermore, we determined which applied voltages are needed to achieve the optimal field distribution for different distances between electrodes.

Conclusion

The presented numerical study of gene electrotransfer is the first that demonstrates optimization of parameters for gene electrotransfer on tissue level. Our method of modeling and optimization is generic and can be applied to different electrode configurations, pulsing protocols and different tissues. Such numerical models, together with knowledge of tissue properties can provide useful guidelines for researchers and physicians in selecting optimal parameters for in vivo gene electrotransfer, thus reducing the number of animals used in studies of gene therapy and DNA vaccination.
WWWW – Wer Wirbt Wie im Web?
Authors: Pieloth Franziska
Published: November 2010

More than 300 language professionals answered the survey “Self-marketing of Freelance Translators and Interpreters on the Internet”. Participants were asked if they own a website and how they use marketing-related Internet services such as networking platforms and online communities. Furthermore, respondents shared their opinions on which contents to publish online, including, for example, photos, work samples, prices and references. Results prove that many freelancers pursue an array of web marketing strategies. However, some find the effects hard to track and stress the continued importance of personal client contact and recommendations.
Die Negationsdistribution im spanischen Satz und ihre Konsequenzen für die Phraseografie des Spanischen
Authors: Becker Ulrike , Torrent-Lenzen Aina
Published: November 2010

A Spanish negative sentence contains items and structures that create a suitable syntactic environment for items and item groups showing an inherent negative meaning. A large number of Spanish phraseologisms can only be used if a negation had been triggered in the same sentence or the same syntagma. The goal of this article is to analyse different cases and rules linked to the triggering of negation in the Spanish language in order to provide a basis for drawing conclusions about their systematic use in Spanish phraseography. This article will show entries taken out of the Diccionario español-alemán de locuciones del español de España, a work which is currently being elaborated by a team of students, linguists and translators, and evaluate their significance as an alternative to present phraseographic solutions.
Participation, Representation and Media System: Habermasian Paths to the Past
Authors: Lundell Patrik
Published: November 2010

Drawing from Swedish press history in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the present article argues for further historical investigation into three aspects of Jürgen Habermas’ theory of the public sphere. The first concerns actual media participation, the second the representative features of media institutions, and the third media systems. These routes of analysis can and should be combined, and historical specificity is key. When we focus on concrete situations and places, the neat grand-scale chronologies (Habermas’ and others’) fall short. There is no simple development from a “representative publicness” to a participatory public sphere, and back again. And the media have always been interconnected in a system-like way. However, historical specificity does not exclude contemporary developments. The present conclusion is that if we are to gain any true understanding of contemporary phenomena, a historical perspective is crucial, and aspects of Habermas’ theory can serve as heuristic tools.
Variability of Polyphenol Compounds in Myrtus Communis L. (Myrtaceae) Berries from Corsica
Authors: Barboni Toussaint , Cannac Magali , Massi Lionel , Perez-Ramirez Yolanda , Chiaramonti Nathalie
Published: November 2010

Polyphenol compounds were extracted from Myrtus communis L. berries (Myrtaceae) by maceration in 70% ethanol and analysed by HPLC-DAD and electrospray mass spectrometry. The Myrtus berries were collected at maturity from seven localities on the island of Corsica (France) and the sampling was carried out during three years. The polyphenol composition of Corsican Myrtus berries was characterized by two phenolic acids, four flavanols, three flavonols and five flavonol glycosides. The major compounds were myricetin-3-O-arabinoside and myricetin-3-O-galactoside. Principal components analysis (PCA) is applied to study the chemical composition and variability of myrtle berries alcoholic extracts from the seven localities. Canonical analysis and PCA data distinguishes two groups of myrtle berries characterized by different concentrations of polyphenols according to soil and years of harvest. The variations in the polyphenol concentration were due to biotic and abiotic factors.
How Effective are Posted Signs to Regulate Tourism? An Example with New Zealand Fur Seals
Authors: Acevedo-Gutierrez Alejandro , Acevedo Lisa , Belonovich Olga , Boren Laura
Published: November 2010

Increased tourism has augmented harassment to wildlife and posted signs are commonly used to manage such interactions. This study determined whether signs increased tourist compliance with regulations to remain >10 m from New Zealand fur seals (Arctocephalus forsteri) at Kaikoura
Peninsula. We observed 362 tourist groups interacting with seals. The percentage of groups in which all members respected the posted distance was similar whether tourists saw the signs or not [60.6% vs. 65.9%; G(1) = 0.98, p = 0.32]. Results indicate that posted signs were ineffective
in increasing compliance to regulations and suggest that alternative approaches must be considered to increase regulation compliance and better manage interactions between tourists and wildlife.
Conformal Low‐Temperature Molecular Layer Deposited Coatings as Interface Modifications to Support Ceramic Protective Films on Macroscopic Flexible Devices
Authors: Kalliomäki Jesse , Manninen Ilkka , Ritasalo Riina , Hirsjärvi Samuli
Published: May 2024

Flexible devices often need a protective coating when operating in harmful environments, ranging from mild ambient conditions to a biologically active environment of the human body. The flexibility poses a problem for traditional encapsulation solutions, as those make the device bulky and limit functionality by applying an external casing. Alternatively, fully conformal encapsulation of a device of arbitrary shape can be realized with thin‐film encapsulation (TFE) without altering device dimensions. Yet, TFE is susceptible to fail under mechanical stresses, especially when a hard ceramic coating is applied on a polymer. Reliability of TFE can be enhanced by altering the elasticity of the hard and brittle thin films, by adding softer layers in between sample and barrier. Herein, molecular layer deposited (MLD) metal‐linked trioxysilylheptanoate (M‐TOSH) films are studied for coating of large devices to conformally and uniformly tune the interface between polymer and atomic‐layer‐deposited protective film. The results show that M‐TOSH process scales to large chambers; parameter optimization leads to superior film quality and lowers elastic modulus. Conformality, tested with home‐built macroscopic test device, finds the process suitable for 3D parts. Final testing reveals that ten cycles of MLD interlayer double the crack‐onset‐strain from 0.26% to 0.51%.
Effect of Cold‐Rolling Deformation on Texture Evolution and Tensile Properties of Titanium Foil for Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Authors: Liu Pei , Liu Congxian , Li Bobo , Wang Zhenbo , Wang Aiqin , Xie Jingpei , Tao Huifa , Wang Fei
Published: May 2024

Preparation of a titanium foil with weak anisotropy is of great significance for the development of bipolar plate materials for hydrogen fuel cell. However, the titanium foil obtained by rolling deformation often suffer from a severe deformation anisotropy due to the formation of a specific texture feature. In this study, the texture feature of pure titanium foil with different cold‐rolling reduction is characterized by electron back‐scattered diffraction (EBSD), and the effect of cold‐rolling deformation on texture evolution and tensile properties of titanium hfoil are systematically investigated. The results show that the cold‐rolling reduction could significantly affect the tensile anisotropy of titanium foil by regulating the texture characteristics. At the low level of cold‐rolling reductions (0%–30%), the texture of titanium foil is mainly pyramid texture, causing the obvious tensile anisotropy. At the medium level of cold‐rolling reductions (50%), strong basal‐plane texture components are appeared, causing that the activated slip system along transverse direction (TD) or normal direction (ND) is almost the same, and thus the tensile anisotropy gradually diminishes. At the high level of cold‐rolling reductions (70%), the intensity of basal‐plane texture becomes weak, and the tensile anisotropy appears in titanium foil again. The findings could provide theoretical guidance and technical support for the preparation of weak anisotropic titanium foil for hydrogen fuel cell.
Liquid Metal‐Printed Semiconductors
Authors: Song Yujia , Li Jingyi , Wang Ju , Du Bangdeng , Liu Jing
Published: May 2024

Liquid metal (LM) electronic ink (e‐ink) is a promising new‐generation material for printed electronics. Extended from this ideal platform, such ink can be post‐processed or loaded with semiconductor nanoparticles to further make semiconductors in the forms of dots, wires, and films on its surface. In this way, targeted semiconductors can be quickly fabricated and patterned as desired with low cost at around room temperature. This leads to the unconventional bottom‐up strategy for direct manufacture of functional devices. Along this direction, a series of p–n junction diodes, field‐effect transistors, and light‐emitting devices have been developed. LM‐printed semiconductor would significantly innovate the classical processes of preparing integrated circuits and electronic devices. To push forward further progress of this cutting‐edge frontier, this article is dedicated to present an overview of LM‐printed semiconductor. The material category of LM semiconductor e‐inks and their synthesis approaches is introduced. Then the core strategies toward printing semiconductors are systematically outlined. Following that, the typical printed semiconductor materials and electronic devices thus constructed as well as their potential applications are summarized. Finally, scientific and technical challenges thus raised are interpreted. Perspective in the area is given.
Comparative Study on Microstructure, Corrosion Morphology, and Friction Wear Properties of Layered Double Hydroxide/Steam Coating Composite Coatings on Mg–Li Alloy
Authors: Zhang Ju‐mei , Lian Duo‐Duo , Hou An‐Rong , Wang Zhi‐Hu , Zhang Meng‐Chun , Wu Jing Wen , Wang Chao‐Chao
Published: May 2024

Mg alloy is the preferred material for the lightweight development of manufacturing industry. However, its application is limited due to the poor wear resistance and corrosion resistance. In this experiment, Mg–Al layered double hydroxide/steam coating (LDH/SC) composite coatings are prepared on the surface of LA43M Mg–Li alloy by steam treatment and in‐situ hydrothermal method for different times (12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 h). The morphology and structure of the coatings are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometry, and X‐ray diffractometer, and the friction wear test of the coatings is carried out. The corrosion resistance of the coatings is evaluated by immersion tests and hydrogen evolution experiments. The effect of hydrothermal time on the growth characteristics, wear resistance, and corrosion behavior of LDH/SC coatings in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution is systematically investigated. In addition, the growth mechanism and corrosion resistance mechanism of the LDH/SC coating are discussed. The results show that the composite coatings is mainly composed of LDH and Mg(OH)2 phases. Appropriately prolonging the hydrothermal reaction time is beneficial to the nucleation and growth of LDH. When the hydrothermal time is 30 h, the prepared coating has the best density, and the prepared coating can significantly improve the corrosion resistance and friction wear properties of the substrate.
Numerical Simulation of Physical Field During Different Ultrasonic‐Power‐Assisted Casting of 7085 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Li Anqing , Jiang Ripeng , Hai Xiquan , Li Ruiqing , Fu Aolei , Li Xiaoqian
Published: May 2024

High‐energy ultrasound has the effect of purifying the aluminum (Al) melt and improving the uniformity of temperature and flow field distribution. In this article, a finite‐element numerical model of ultrasonic‐assisted casting of 7085 Al alloy melt is established, and the changes of acoustic pressure field, temperature field, and flow field in the solidification process of alloy melt with different ultrasonic power are investigated. In the numerical simulation results, it is shown that the thickness of the 7085 Al melt mushy zone decreases by 89, 97, 108, 114, and 99 mm, respectively, compared without ultrasonic (WNU) when the ultrasonic power is 150, 350, 550, 750, and 950 W. The area of the alloy mushy zone increases by 38.1%, 43.5%, 61.0%, 206.5%, and 45.6%, respectively. According to numerical simulation results, when the ultrasonic power is 750 W, it has the best effect on improving the macroscopic physical field, increasing the mass and heat‐transfer rate in the center of the Al melt. Meanwhile, the experimental results of industrial melting and casting of 7085 large‐scale Al alloy ingots are basically consistent with the numerical simulation, which provide technical support for ultrasonic‐assisted fabrication of large‐scale 7085 Al alloy ingots.
Poly‐DADMAC Functionalized Polyethylene Oxide Composite Nanofibrous Mat as Highly Positive Material for Triboelectric Nanogenerators and Self‐Powered Pressure Sensors
Authors: Robiul Islam M. , Faruk Omar , Rana S M Sohel , Pradhan Gagan Bahadur , Kim Hongseok , Reza Md. Selim , Bhatta Trilochan , Park Jae Yeong
Published: May 2024

The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is a promising technology for self‐powered sensors and vibration‐driven energy harvesting, with its development especially influenced by the characteristics of tribomaterials. However, developing tribopositive materials with a strong cationic effect and high electron‐donating capability remains challenging. In this study, a novel polyethylene oxide@poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PEO@Poly‐DADMAC) composite nanofiber mat (NFM) is successfully fabricated using the electrospinning technique. It functions as a highly tribopositive material, particularly enhancing the performance of nanofiber‐based TENGs (NF‐TENGs). Through investigation of its physical and triboelectric properties, the study revealed that incorporating cationic Poly‐DADMAC with PEO effectively boosts NF‐TENG output by increasing the dielectric constant (twofold), electron‐donating affinities, and surface charge trapping capability. The fabricated NF‐TENG shows excellent output performance generating 980 V, a maximum power density of 5.6 Wm−2, and an ultrahigh sensitivity of 8.923 V kPa−1 which endows composite reliability for power supply and sensing capability. More importantly, the PEO@Poly‐DADMAC‐based self‐powered motion sensor with an NF‐TENG array is successfully demonstrated in multifunctional applications such as athlete activity tracking, and wireless gaming interface control. This study not only offers new insights into optimizing performance and selecting alternative tribomaterials but also provides valuable guidance for developing high‐output TENGs and highly sensitive self‐powered sensors.
Metalloporphyrins as Building Blocks for Quantum Information Science
Authors: Santanni Fabio , Privitera Alberto
Published: May 2024

The intrinsic quantum nature of molecules opens exciting opportunities for developing the field of quantum information science. In this context, porphyrins stand out as ideal building blocks for quantum technologies thanks to their unique optical and electrical properties as well as their capacity to accommodate metal atoms and ions. This review bridges the chemistry and physics of porphyrins, providing an overview of recent advances in porphyrin‐based molecular qubits. Starting from qubits, the review explores the potential of porphyrin units to combine, leading to the formation of quantum logic gates and hierarchical higher‐dimensional structures. Next, the exploitation of porphyrins' unique photophysical properties for realizing long‐lived high spin states is examined. These states are promising for the photogeneration of multi‐level systems and the optical initialization and control of molecular qubits. With a critical eye on the current state‐of‐the‐art, the review elucidates the future perspectives of porphyrins for advancing quantum technologies.
Multi‐component Copolymerized Donors enable Frozen Nano‐morphology and Superior Ductility for Efficient Binary Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Lin Congqi , Peng Ruixiang , Song Wei , Chen Zhenyu , Feng Tingting , Sun Dinghong , Bai Yongqi , Ge Ziyi
Published: May 2024

Multi‐component copolymerized donors (MCDs) have gained significant interest and have been rapidly developed in flexible organic solar cells (f‐OSCs) in recent years. However, ensuring the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of f‐OSCs while retaining ideal mechanical properties remains an enormous challenge. The fracture strain (FS) value of typical high‐efficiency blend films is generally less than 8 %, which is far from the application standards of wearable photovoltaic devices. Therefore, we developed a series of novel MCDs after meticulous molecular design. Among them, the consistent MCD backbone and end‐capped functional group formed a highly conjugated molecular plane, and the solubilization and mechanical properties were effectively optimized by modifying the proportion of solubilized alkyl chains. Consequently, due to the formation of entangled structures with a frozen blend film morphology considerably improved the high ductility of the active layer, P10.8/P20.2‐TCl exhibited efficient PCE in rigid (18.53 %) and flexible (17.03 %) OSCs, along with excellent FS values (16.59 %) in pristine films, meanwhile, the outstanding FS values of 25.18 % and 12.3 % were achieved by P10.6/P20.4‐TCl ‐based pristine and blend films, respectively, which were one of the highest records achieved by end‐capped MCD‐based binary OSCs, demonstrating promising application to synchronize the realization of high‐efficiency and mechanically ductile flexible OSCs.
Topologically Defective Lattice Potential‐Based Gain‐Dissipative Ising Annealer with Large Noise Margin
Authors: Liao Zhiqiang , Tang Siyi , Sarker Md Shamim , Yamahara Hiroyasu , Seki Munetoshi , Tabata Hitoshi
Published: May 2024

Gain‐dissipative Ising machines (GIMs) are annealers inspired by physical systems such as Ising spin glasses to solve combinatorial optimization problems. Compared to traditional quantum annealers, GIM is relatively easier to scale and can save on additional power consumption caused by low‐temperature cooling. However, traditional GIMs have a limited noise margin. Specifically, their normal operation requires ensuring that the noise intensity is lower than their saturation fixed point amplitude, which may result in increased power consumption to suppress noise‐induced spin state switching. To enhance the noise robustness of GIM, in this study a GIM based on a topologically defective lattice potential (TDLP) is proposed. Numerical simulations demonstrate that the TDLP‐based GIM can accurately simulate the bifurcation spin evolution in the Ising model. Furthermore, through the MAXCUT benchmark based on G‐set graphs, the optimal performance of TDLP‐based GIM is shown to surpass that of traditional GIMs. Additionally, the proposed TDLP‐based GIM successfully solves the MAXCUT benchmark and domain clustering dynamics benchmark based on G‐set graphs when the noise intensity exceeds its saturation fixed‐point amplitude. This indicates that the proposed system provides a promising architecture for breaking the small noise constraints required by traditional GIMs.
A paREDOX in the control of cholesterol biosynthesis
Authors: Fenton Nicole M. , Qian Lydia , Paine Eloise G. , Sharpe Laura J. , Brown Andrew J.
Published: May 2024

Sterols and the reductant nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH), essential for eukaryotic life, arose because of, and as an adaptation to, rising levels of molecular oxygen (O2). Hence, the NADPH and O2‐intensive process of sterol biosynthesis is inextricably linked to redox status. In mammals, cholesterol biosynthesis is exquisitely regulated post‐translationally by multiple E3 ubiquitin ligases, with membrane associated Really Interesting New Gene (RING) C3HC4 finger 6 (MARCHF6) degrading at least six enzymes in the pathway. Intriguingly, all these MARCHF6‐dependent enzymes require NADPH. Moreover, MARCHF6 is activated by NADPH, although what this means for control of cholesterol synthesis is unclear. Indeed, this presents a paradox for how NADPH regulates this vital pathway, since NADPH is a cofactor in cholesterol biosynthesis and yet, low levels of NADPH should spare cholesterol biosynthesis enzymes targeted by MARCHF6 by reducing its activity. We speculate MARCHF6 helps mammalian cells adapt to oxidative stress (signified by low NADPH levels) by reducing degradation of cholesterogenic enzymes, thereby maintaining synthesis of protective cholesterol.
Combination of UPLC–Q‐TOF/MS and network pharmacology to reveal the mechanism of Chaihu‐jia‐Longgu‐Muli decoction for treating vertigo with anxiety disorder
Authors: Wu Tong , Dong Hanshuo , Liu Yin , Cao Zhenghua , Sun Li
Published: May 2024

Chaihu‐jia‐Longgu‐Muli decoction (CLMD) has been proven clinically effective in treating vertigo with anxiety disorder. However, the mechanism is not clear. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of CLMD in treating vertigo with anxiety disorder based on ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight/mass spectrometry (UPLC–Q‐TOF/MS) and network pharmacology. UPLC–Q‐TOF/MS was performed to identify the compounds in blood and the targets of compounds of CLMD in vertigo and anxiety were searched using databases. A protein–protein interaction network was built to screen the core targets. The core targets were analyzed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses. In addition, the vertigo with anxiety rat model was used to verify the results. A total of 22 compounds were absorbed into the blood. Eighty‐one potential targets associated with CLMD for vertigo with anxiety disorder were identified through network pharmacological analysis. Subsequently, GO and KEGG analysis showed that CLMD treatment for vertigo with anxiety disorder is associated with neurotransmitter levels and other pertinent physiological processes. The results of the animal experiments showed that CLMD decreased the levels of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, alleviating the symptoms of vertigo and anxiety disorder in model rats. The study revealed CLMD could alleviate vertigo and anxiety symptoms through reducing the levels of neurotransmitters.