bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Urban Planning and Design for Smarter Communities
Authors: Ercoskun Ozge Yalciner
Published: May 2010

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) changes the concept of place and social life. Researchers should find some solutions about how to combine ICT with sustainable construction to revitalize an existing neighborhood and to create a new model for growing areas especially in small cities. The objectives of this study are to search for new ways to create sustainable communities with the sustainable use of ICTs, to discuss the advantages and disadvantages and the use of ICTs in cities, to put a new approach as ‘eco-tech’ city, and to explore the potential ways of creating sustainability in practice. The study summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of the use of ICTs in cities and describes smart city and eco-tech city concepts. The following part, which is consisted of a discussion of urban planning and design, incorporating ICT for the construction of sustainable communities, explores the prospect that dehumanized communication can be ameliorated through progressive, innovative and green urban planning and design strategies.
Communicating in Multicultural Firms
Authors: Lauring Jakob , Klitmøller Anders
Published: May 2010

Based on a qualitative study of 14 knowledge intensive companies, this chapter suggests that multicultural and multilingual firms are faced with certain challenges in the attempt to fruitfully utilize the diverse background of their workforce. Firstly, through informal settings, the employees to create social boundaries within the firm use native languages strategically. Secondly, even though the introduction of English as cooperate language might solve some communication issues, it tends to render the communication less nuanced, thereby reducing the use of human resources within the firm. Thirdly, ICT does not necessarily solve communication problems within a given company. It can even be used as a social ‘tool’ to uphold social boundaries or social fragmentation. It is suggested that in order to address these challenges, the management should seek to reward not only individual employees, but also expand the notion of performance to include the collectivity of the workplace.
Communication in Global Development Projects
Authors: Adenfelt Maria , Lagerström Katarina
Published: May 2010

Globalization trends make the task of revisiting the nature of the organization of global development projects (GDPs) within MNCs imperative. In this study, GDPs are viewed as contemporary ventures that seek scale economies in response to opportunities and threats posed by globalization trends. Our focus is to obtain a better understanding of how communication is managed and organized in GDPs. The study is of a GDP with the aim of developing a common global product to be used by all subsidiaries in an MNC, but with openings for local market adaptations. The empirical findings show that: (1) the management had two goals with the project, which were conveyed and understood differently depending on organizational level and organizational belonging, (2) the administrative heritage of the MNC influenced the use of information communication technology for sharing information and knowledge, and (3) the impact of frequency and structure of communication for information processing.
African Families Faced with NICT
Authors: Mimche Honoré , Lengha Norbert Tohnain
Published: May 2010

In Africa, family structures are today committed or involved in the dynamics of social transformation which jeopardize their mode of constitution their future, the sustenance of intergenerational and individual relationships as well as the traditional systems of social relationships based on direct and personal communication. This chapter is a sociological analysis of the future of the family through its relationship with NICT notably the Internet and the cellular telephone. The analyses lay emphasizes on the consequences of NICTs on the modalities for the constitution of marriage covenants, family relationships and intergenerational transfers.
3D Design and Collaboration in Massively Multi-User Virtual Environments (MUVEs)
Authors: Warburton Steven , Pérez García Margarita
Published: May 2010

This chapter describes an exploratory study in the use of the virtual world Second Life as an innovative space for situating collaborative activity in the field of art and design. The authors identify eight key affordances of Second Life for learning and teaching and elaborate the educational approach based on group orientated design briefs, carried out over a three-week period by the students. The results of the study reveal both the negative and positive aspects of using Second Life as an educational space. These range from access difficulties and the steep learning curve in becoming familiar with the technology, to the expansive social and creative freedoms that the world allows. The conclusions draw together an analysis of the emerging themes and present a set of ten good practices for developing and running successful collaborative activities inside virtual worlds.
Obesity Prevention in Second Life
Authors: Lee Rebecca E. , Layne Charles S. , McFarlin Brian K. , O’Connor Daniel , Siddiqi Sameer
Published: May 2010

In industrialized societies, between 50% and 75% of the population weigh in at overweight or obese health status (Low, Chew Chin, Deurenberg, 2009; Ogden, 2007). Ecologic models posit that heath behavior and outcomes are related to the environmental settings in which humans live, work and play; if environmental settings are not supportive, then poor health results. (Spence & Lee, 2003) Second Life is an interactive virtual world that is global, an ideal setting to reach international audiences who are real life residents of industrialized communities at high risk for obesity. Second Life provides a unique opportunity to increase knowledge, social support and behavioral skills necessary to reduce or prevent obesity with much broader reach than traditional face to face intervention strategies. Health behavior change interventions have had success in real life by exposing participants to interventions in virtual worlds, suggesting that information and skills learned in virtual worlds may translate to real life (Anderson, Rothbaum, Hodges, 2000). The International Health Challenge in Second Life began with the goal of extending the real life mission, goals and activities of the Texas Obesity Research Center of the University of Houston into Second Life. What emerged was a fun, exciting, interactive, multicultural, multilingual, theoretically grounded, virtual setting where resident avatars of Second Life learned about healthful living, met others like them, and had virtual experiences that in turn contributed to real life health improvement. This chapter investigates the utility of applying the ecologic model of health to virtual worlds to reduce the public health burden of obesity, with the case example of the International Health Challenge.
Dissection of a Desktop Microworld
Authors: Marszalek Christine S. , Marszalek Jacob M.
Published: May 2010

Despite the long history of the use of dissection in biology coursework, it has and continues to be, very controversial (Hart et al, 2008; Kinzie et al, 1993; Langley, 1991; Orlans, 1988; Nobis, 2002; Strauss, 1991; Madrazo, G, 2002). This case study evaluation was conducted in an affluent suburban middle school in the Upper Midwest as a response to the problem of finding an alternative means of instruction that would yield the same cognitive knowledge development, address the issue of science anxiety, and accommodate different learning modalities. Several alternatives were compared in 14 seventh-grade biology classrooms, including physical dissection, virtual dissection in a desktop microworld, and content instruction through an interactive CD-ROM tutorial. Although differences were observed in immediate retention, none were observed in retention after three months. Differences in science anxiety are discussed, and comparisons made of retention and anxiety among various learning styles. Implications for classroom instruction are discussed from an instructional perspective. The smell of formaldehyde was in the air as students tenaciously poked with dissection probes at the frogs pinned to their dissection trays. The familiar comments of “Gross!” “I don’t want to cut him,” and “Hey, Mrs. M, what do I do now?” punctuated the air. It was the start of the annual climax of the seventh-grade biology curriculum, dissecting a frog. The teacher, already dealing with notes from parents objecting to their sons/daughters participating and the logistics of helping 30 students simultaneously, could not help but think that there had to be an alternative way of presenting the experience to the students. This case study was born from that familiar, frustrating scene, which occurs annually throughout school systems everywhere. The teacher in the scenario above was one of three from the Biology department at a middle school in northeastern Illinois. Her team came to Christine with the problem of finding an alternative means of instructional delivery that would yield substantially the same cognitive knowledge development in the students, help address the declining frog population, address the issue of science anxiety among students at the middle school level, and accommodate the learning modalities of the students.
Maximizing Collaborative Learning and Work in Digital Libraries and Repositories
Authors: Hai-Jew Shalin
Published: May 2010

Digital libraries and repositories aren’t often thought of as virtual learning environments. However, in function and designs, they are. A wide range of digital artifacts are archived on both private and public open-source digital libraries and repositories. There are digital collections of texts, maps, photos, sound files, geospatial resources, video, and 3D objects. There are repositories for particular fields of study as well as multi-discipline ones. These may be structured as ontologies or taxonomies in particular knowledge (or cross-discipline) domains. Recently, designers of digital libraries and repositories have been focusing more testing and design on making such spaces usable for collaborative learning and building networks of communities. This chapter will explore how to maximize collaborative learning and work in digital libraries and repositories by applying pedagogical strategies.
Creating a Motivated Online Graduate Community
Authors: Aitken Joan E.
Published: May 2010

The purpose of this chapter is to provide a case study of the problem solving processes of a faculty who developed a new graduate program in communication studies. Students could take all courses online, all onground, or use a combination of the two delivery formats. For the totally online program, a key desire was to help students and faculty achieve a sense of a collaborative community. Students needed to get to know each other and feel a part of the whole program, even though course delivery for some students was totally online. Further, the faculty sought to motivate students to engage in a challenging program of research and application.
Developing Collaborative Problem-Solving in an Online Training Program for Insurance Agents
Authors: Connolly Patrick , Russell Donna
Published: May 2010

This case is a narrative of the design, review, revision and implementation of an online training program for insurance brokers. The goal of the online training program is to develop advanced problem-solving knowledge and skills including communication abilities in trainees. The case is narrated from the perspective of the training manager with the reviewer’s comments included during the review cycle of implementation. The evaluative review is completed using cultural historical activity theory to identify contradictions in the training process. The purpose of the case is to identify the development of advanced knowledge and skills resulting from the online training program. The results of implementing an online training program include 1) reduction in turnover, 2) cost savings and 3) training benefits for the regional branch offices and the trainees.
Enhancing Intelligence, English and Math Competencies in the Classroom via e@Leader Integrated Online Edutainment Gaming and Assessment
Authors: Dickinson Anthony R. , Hui Diane
Published: May 2010

Whether online edutainment gaming can enhance intelligence, student learning, or scholastic performance remains hotly debated in education research circles. In response to this academic issue, and in order to address a number of educational policy questions asked of the authors by several government organisations, the authors have developed the online e@Leader edutainment gaming platform as a solution. Their e@Leader program is the first comprehensive ‘learning by gaming’ system to also be designed according to the findings of advanced machine learning and cognitive developmental neuroscience research. In 2008, the first empirical evidence was generated with its use, and together with its built-in assessment system, integrated into the school curriculum. Beyond this existence proof of concept, and practical program application for educational use, results of beta-testing with the e@Leader system across primary schools in two countries support the claim for tutored online educational gaming in enhancing intelligence, active student learning, and scholastic performances in English and math.
Information Storage Security
Authors: Ramachandra Manjunath
Published: May 2010

The primary goal of the information supply chain is to provide access to the right users to share the data. So, a framework is required to define the rightful users. This chapter provides the mechanism and algorithms to do the same. The hierarchical representation of data introduced here, map on to the different degrees of permissions enjoyed by the customers throwing open new business opportunities.
Information Transfer
Authors: Ramachandra Manjunath
Published: May 2010

The transfer of live data over the supply chain is challenging. The problem is compounded if multimedia data is involved. The delay in the transmission, packet loss etc will be the cause for concern. In this chapter hierarchical data representation is introduced towards data streaming and better performance.
Endomyocardial Biopsy of Right Atrial Angiosarcoma Guided by Intracardiac Echocardiography
Authors: Kuppahally Suman S. , Litwin Sheldon E. , Michaels Andrew D.
Published: May 2010

We report a case of a 22-year-old female who presented with pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade. She was diagnosed with a right atrial mass by computed tomography and was referred to our institution for biopsy of this mass. Transcatheter biopsy was performed with intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) guidance, avoiding the need for transesophageal echocardiography or surgery to obtain the biopsy. ICE for transcatheter biopsy of an intracardiac mass is an attractive modality which provides precise localization of the cardiac structures.
Risk Factors for Hydroxychloroquine Retinopathy and Its Subtypes
Authors: Jorge April M. , Melles Ronald B. , Marmor Michael F. , Zhou Baijun , Zhang Yuqing , Choi Hyon K.
Published: May 2024

Importance

The major toxic effect of hydroxychloroquine is retinopathy. Thus, current guidelines recommend limiting the dose and screening annually for retinopathy among all long-term users, but individual patient factors may be associated with retinopathy risk.

Objective

To identify risk factors beyond hydroxychloroquine dose and duration of use for hydroxychloroquine retinopathy.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study of 4677 patients in the Kaiser Permanente Northern California integrated health network who initiated hydroxychloroquine, continued treatment, and underwent retinopathy screening after 5 years of use was conducted from July 1, 1997, to December 31, 2020, with up to 15 years of follow-up. Statistical analysis was performed in August 2023.

Exposure

Candidate risk factors included age at hydroxychloroquine initiation, sex, race and ethnicity, indications, chronic kidney disease (CKD), liver disease, diabetes, tamoxifen use, and medications that interact with hydroxychloroquine metabolism. Hydroxychloroquine dose was assessed from pharmacy dispensing records.

Main Outcome and Measures

Incident hydroxychloroquine retinopathy was adjudicated from masked review of guideline-recommended screening studies and classified as parafoveal or pericentral pattern. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess potential risk factors for hydroxychloroquine retinopathy within 15 years of initiation.

Results

Of 4677 long-term hydroxychloroquine users (mean [SD] age at initiation, 52.4 [14.1] years; 3877 women [82.9%]), 125 patients developed hydroxychloroquine retinopathy within 15 years (102 parafoveal, 23 pericentral). Older age at time of hydroxychloroquine initiation was associated with retinopathy risk, with adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of 2.48 (95% CI, 1.28-4.78) for those aged 45 to 54 years, 3.82 (95% CI, 2.05-7.14) for those aged 55 to 64 years, and 5.68 (95% CI, 2.99-10.79) for those aged 65 years or older compared with those younger than 45 years. The risk of retinopathy was higher among females than males (HR, 3.83 [95% CI, 1.86-7.89]), among patients with CKD stage 3 or greater (HR, 1.95 [95% CI, 1.25-3.04]), and among individuals with tamoxifen use (HR, 3.43 [95% CI, 1.08-10.89]). The likelihood of pericentral retinopathy was higher among Asian patients (HR, 15.02 [95% CI, 4.82-46.87]) and Black patients (HR, 5.51 [95% CI, 1.22-24.97]) compared with non-Hispanic White patients.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study suggests that increasing age, female sex, CKD stage 3 or greater, and tamoxifen use were associated with a higher risk of hydroxychloroquine retinopathy, whereas being younger than 45 years at hydroxychloroquine initiation and male sex were associated with a lower risk. Race and ethnicity were also associated with the pattern of retinopathy. These factors should be incorporated into hydroxychloroquine dosing decisions.
Burnout Among Physicians With Disabilities
Authors: Meeks Lisa M. , Conrad Sarah S. , Nouri Zakia , Moreland Christopher J. , Sheets Zoie C. , Hu Xiaochu , Dill Michael J.
Published: May 2024

This survey study examines reported experiences of burnout, including emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, among physicians with disability.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Content on Ophthalmology Fellowship Webpages
Authors: Bohler Forrest , Garden Allison , Romano Emilio , Taranikanti Varna
Published: May 2024

This quality improvement study characterizes diversity, equity, and inclusion content on ophthalmology fellowship program websites.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Authors: Pope Pharibe , Sawaf Tuleen , Justicz Natalie
Published: May 2024

This Patient Page describes the risks and benefits of lower blepharoplasty.
Distinct longitudinal patterns of urine tumor DNA in patients undergoing surveillance for bladder cancer
Authors: Vedeld Hege Marie , Pharo Heidi , Sørbø Anne Klara , Brandt‐Winge Sara , Five May‐Britt , Jeanmougin Marine , Guldberg Per , Wahlqvist Rolf , Lind Guro Elisabeth
Published: May 2024

Cystoscopy is the gold standard for surveillance of non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), but the procedure is invasive and has suboptimal accuracy. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of analyzing urine samples for the presence of urine tumor DNA (utDNA) to replace cystoscopy for surveillance of bladder cancer recurrence. In this longitudinal, prospective, and observational study, 47 patients were followed for recurrence for 2 years, involving analysis of utDNA using the BladMetrix DNA methylation biomarker test at each cystoscopy. In total, utDNA was detected in 21/23 recurrences (91% sensitivity), including 5/5 T1, T2, and carcinoma in situ (CIS) tumors (100%) and 10/12 Ta tumors (83%), with < 1% false‐negative test results. Importantly, utDNA analysis showed the potential to reduce the number of cystoscopies by 55%, benefitting 79% of the patients. Eleven of 23 recurrences (48%) were detected earlier with utDNA than with cystoscopy, and distinct patterns of residual utDNA post‐surgery indicated minimal residual disease (MRD) or field effect in 6% and 15% of the patients, respectively. In conclusion, utDNA analysis shows high sensitivity to detect tumor recurrence, potential to reduce the number of cystoscopies, and promise to guide patient‐specific surveillance regimens.
Peristome‐Mimetic Surfaces Fabricated by Nanosecond Laser for Unidirectional Liquid Spreading
Authors: Wan Yanling , Yang Zejun , Zhang Guodong , Wang Yonghua
Published: May 2024

Unidirectional liquid transport, which operates without external energy input, has garnered remarkable interest in the global energy sector. A crucial breakthrough in this field involves understanding how liquids spread on the peristome surface of Nepenthes alata. This study, inspired by the microstructural traits of the Nepenthes peristome, has brought about the development of a biomimetic surface on metal substrates using nanosecond laser processing on inclined bases. This process replicates the natural peristome's microstructure, which allows for controlled liquid spread on the surface. The research also examines how wettability influences unidirectional liquid spread. Additionally, it involves adjusting the microstructure parameters on the biomimetic surface, which leads to variations in edge curvature and microcavity wedge angles. More importantly, this study comprehensively investigates the relationship between these structural changes and the phenomenon of unidirectional liquid transport. The findings suggest that altering edge curvature and microcavity wedge angles can manage the directional spread of liquids. The optimized surface, with ideal curvature and wedge angles, achieves liquid movement speed up to 12.03 mm s−1. This represents a notable improvement, 2.2 and 2.7 times faster than the original structure, respectively. These findings provide valuable insight into the design of energy‐independent unidirectional liquid spreading surfaces on metal substrates.
A Multifunctional Nanoreactor‐Induced Dual Inhibition of HSP70 Strategy for Enhancing Mild Photothermal/Chemodynamic Synergistic Tumor Therapy
Authors: Wu Shutong , Gao Mengting , Chen Lin , Wang Yuhang , Zheng Xiaochun , Zhang Binyue , Li Juan , Zhang Xiao‐Dong , Dai Rong , Zheng Ziliang , Zhang Ruiping
Published: May 2024

Mild photothermal therapy (PTT) is a spatiotemporally controllable method that utilizes the photothermal effect at relatively low temperatures (40–45 °C) to especially eliminate tumor tissues with negligible side effects on the surrounding normal tissues. However, the overexpression of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and limited effect of single treatment drastically impede the therapeutic efficacy. Herein, the constructed multifunctional core‐shell structured Ag‐Cu@SiO2‐PDA/GOx nanoreactors (APG NRs) that provide a dual inhibition of HSP70 strategy for the second near‐infrared photoacoustic (NIR‐II PA) imaging‐guided combined mild PTT/chemodynamic therapy (CDT). The Ag‐Cu cores can convert endogenous H2O2 to hydroxyl radical (•OH), which can induce lipid peroxidation (LPO) and further degrade HSP70. The polydopamine (PDA)/glucose oxidase (GOx) shells are utilized as the NIR‐II photothermal agent to generate low temperature, and the GOx can reduce the energy supplies and inhibit energy‐dependent HSP70 expression. Furthermore, both the generation of •OH and GOx‐mediated energy shortage can reduce HSP70 expression to sensitize mild PTT under 1064 nm laser, and in turn, GOx and laser self‐amplify the catalytic reactions of APG NRs for more production of •OH. The multifunctional nanoreactors will provide more potential possibilities for the clinical employment of mild PTT and the advancement of tumor combination therapies.
Customized Proteinaceous Nanoformulation for In Vivo Chemical Reprogramming
Authors: Chen Huating , Xiang Jiangbing , Liu Yawei , Pi Wei , Zhang Hongliang , Wu Lu , Liu Yiqiong , Ji Shuaifei , Li Yan , Cui Shaoyuan , Liu Kai , Fu Xiaobing , Sun Xiaoyan
Published: May 2024

Sweat gland (SwG) regeneration is crucial for the functional rehabilitation of burn patients. In vivo chemical reprogramming that harnessing the patient's own cells in damaged tissue is of substantial interest to regenerate organs endogenously by pharmacological manipulation, which could compensate for tissue loss in devastating diseases and injuries, for example, burns. However, achieving in vivo chemical reprogramming is challenging due to the low reprogramming efficiency and an unfavorable tissue environment. Herein, this work has developed a functionalized proteinaceous nanoformulation delivery system containing prefabricated epidermal growth factor structure for on‐demand delivery of a cocktail of seven SwG reprogramming components to the dermal site. Such a chemical reprogramming system can efficiently induce the conversion of epidermal keratinocytes into SwG myoepithelial cells, resulting in successful in situ regeneration of functional SwGs. Notably, in vivo chemical reprogramming of SwGs is achieved for the first time with an impressive efficiency of 30.6%, surpassing previously reported efficiencies. Overall, this proteinaceous nanoformulation provides a platform for coordinating the target delivery of multiple pharmacological agents and facilitating in vivo SwG reprogramming by chemicals. This advancement greatly improves the clinical accessibility of in vivo reprogramming and offers a non‐surgical, non‐viral, and cell‐free strategy for in situ SwG regeneration.
Lead Isolation and Capture in Perovskite Photovoltaics toward Eco‐Friendly Commercialization
Authors: Chen Chun‐Hao , Cheng Shu‐Ning , Hu Fan , Su Zhen‐Huang , Wang Kai‐Li , Cheng Liang , Chen Jing , Shi Yi‐Ran , Xia Yu , Teng Tian‐Yu , Gao Xing‐Yu , Yavuz Ilhan , Lou Yan‐Hui , Wang Zhao‐Kui
Published: May 2024

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are developed rapidly in efficiency and stability in recent years, which can compete with silicon solar cells. However, an important obstacle to the commercialization of PSCs is the toxicity of lead ions (Pb2+) from water‐soluble perovskites. The entry of free Pb2+ into organisms can cause severe harm to humans, such as blood lead poisoning, organ failure, etc. Therefore, this work reports a “lead isolation‐capture” dual detoxification strategy with calcium disodium edetate (EDTA Na‐Ca), which can inhibit lead leakage from PSCs under extreme conditions. More importantly, leaked lead exists in a nontoxic aggregation state chelated by EDTA. For the first time, in vivo experiments are conducted in mice to systematically prove that this material has a significant inhibitory effect on the toxicity of perovskites. In addition, this strategy can further enhance device performance, enabling the optimized devices to achieve an impressive power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.19%. This innovative strategy is a major breakthrough in the research on the prevention of lead toxicity in PSCs.
Design and Synthesis of Electrocatalysts Base on Catalysis‐Unit Engineering
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Zhang Ziqi , Chen Cailing , Xu Ruian , Chen Xiao‐Bo , Lu Haiyan , Shi Zhan , Han Yu , Feng Shouhua
Published: May 2024

It is a pressing need to develop new energy materials to address the existing energy crisis. However, screening optimal targets out of thousands of material candidates remains a great challenge. Herein, an alternative concept for highly effective materials screening based on dual‐atom salphen catalysis units, is proposed and validated. Such an approach simplifies the design of catalytic materials and reforms the trial‐and‐error experimental model into a building‐blocks‐assembly like process. First, density functional theory (DFT) calculations are performed on a series of potential catalysis units that are possible to synthesize. Then, machine learning (ML) is employed to define the structure‐performance relationship and acquire chemical insights. Afterward, the projected catalysis units are integrated into covalent organic frameworks (COFs) to validate the concept Electrochemical tests confirming that Ni‐SalphenCOF and Co‐SalphenCOF are promising conductive agent‐free oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts. This work provides a fast‐tracked strategy for the design and development of functional materials, which serves as a potentially workable framework for seamlessly integrating DFT calculations, ML, and experimental approaches.
Bioinspired Liquid Metal Based Soft Humanoid Robots
Authors: Li Nan , Yuan Xiaohong , Li Yuqing , Zhang Guangcheng , Yang Qianhong , Zhou Yingxin , Guo Minghui , Liu Jing
Published: May 2024

The pursuit of constructing humanoid robots to replicate the anatomical structures and capabilities of human beings has been a long‐standing significant undertaking and especially garnered tremendous attention in recent years. However, despite the progress made over recent decades, humanoid robots have predominantly been confined to those rigid metallic structures, which however starkly contrast with the inherent flexibility observed in biological systems. To better innovate this area, the present work systematically explores the value and potential of liquid metals and their derivatives in facilitating a crucial transition towards soft humanoid robots. Through a comprehensive interpretation of bionics, an overview of liquid metals’ multifaceted roles as essential components in constructing advanced humanoid robots—functioning as soft actuators, sensors, power sources, logical devices, circuit systems, and even transformable skeletal structures—is presented. It is conceived that the integration of these components with flexible structures, facilitated by the unique properties of liquid metals, can create unexpected versatile functionalities and behaviors to better fulfill human needs. Finally, a revolution in humanoid robots is envisioned, transitioning from metallic frameworks to hybrid soft‐rigid structures resembling that of biological tissues. This study is expected to provide fundamental guidance for the coming research, thereby advancing the area.
Diradical Polar Reactivity Induced by Electricity‐Mediated Ground State Triplet Nitrenium Species
Authors: Banerjee Nakshatra , Kushwaha Apoorv , Dutt Shiv , Saha Debarshi , Kumar T. J. Dhilip , Banerjee Prabal
Published: May 2024

It is extremely rare for reactive intermediates to possess a ground state triplet character. Excited state triplet intermediates are generally accessed by means of photon transfer from a tunable light source or by using any triplet sensitizers. N‐acyl N‐alkoxy nitreniums are an important class of reactive intermediates in the synthetic organic community due to their prolonged lifetime and ground‐state singlet character. Herein, we report an external oxidant and toxic catalyst‐free mild electrochemical protocol to access nitrenium reactive intermediate. Experimental findings of the mechanistic pathway suggested a theoretically predicted triplet reactive intermediate that is energetically favorable compared to the singlet pathway.
Stabilization of Na‐Ion Cathode Surfaces: Combinatorial Experiments with Insights from Machine Learning Models
Authors: Jia Shipeng , Abdolhosseini Marzieh , Liu Chenghao , Jonderian Antranik , Li Yixuan , Kwak Hunho , Kumakura Shinichi , Sieffert James Michael , Eisnor Maddison , McCalla Eric
Published: May 2024

Na–Fe–Mn–O cathodes hold promise for environmentally benign high‐energy sodium‐ion batteries, addressing material scarcity concerns in Li‐ion batteries. To date, these materials show poor stability in the air and suffer significant Fe/Mn dissolution during use. These two detrimental surface effects have so far prevented the commercialization of these materials. Herein, high‐throughput experiments to make hundreds of substitutions into a previously optimized Na–Fe–Mn–O material are utilized. Numerous single‐phase materials are made with good electrochemical performance that shows moderate improvements over the unsubstituted. By contrast, dramatic improvements are made in suppressing decomposition in air and Fe/Mn dissolution. Machine learning algorithms are utilized to further understand the changes in air stability and to decouple the effects of various structural parameters such as lattice parameters and crystallite size. The comprehensive dataset and methodology established here lay the groundwork for future exploration and optimization of cathode materials, driving the advancement of next‐generation sodium‐ion batteries.
Modification of contact lenses via metal‐organic frameworks for glaucoma treatment
Authors: Yaremenko Alexey V. , Melikov Roman O. , Pechnikova Nadezhda A. , Belyaev Iaroslav B. , Ringaci Alina , Yaremenko Tamara V. , Mirkasymov Aziz B. , Tamgin Alexandr A. , Rodionov Vladislav I. , Dolotova Sofya M. , Plisko Grigory A. , Semivelichenko Evgeny D. , Rogova Anna S. , Muslimov Albert R. , Ivkina Arina S. , Ivkin Dmitry Yu. , Erichev Valery P. , Deyev Sergey M. , Avetisov Sergey E. , Li Yongjiang , Liu Hai‐Jun , Zelepukin Ivan V.
Published: May 2024

The prevention of blindness from glaucoma requires multiple treatments to lower intraocular pressure. Here, human contact lenses are modified with highly porous metal‐organic frameworks with sustained release of brimonidine for prolonged glaucoma treatment. Various metal‐organic frameworks were screened for their attachment to lenses, loading with brimonidine, and drug‐release properties. Optimized therapeutic ocular lenses conjugated with MIL‐101(Cr) frameworks maintain optical transparency and power. Coating of lenses with MIL‐101(Cr) nanoparticles reduced brimonidine washout with tears and ensured a gradual and localized release of the drug into the eyeball through the cornea. The hybrid lenses provided a 4.5‐fold better decrease in eye pressure, compared by area under the curve (AUC) value to a commercially available brimonidine tartrate solution. Therapeutic lenses did not induce any notable eye irritation or corneal damage in vivo. The newly developed hybrid lenses are expected to provide a robust platform for the therapy and prevention of various ocular diseases.
Synthesis of Azahelicenes via Friedel‐Crafts‐Type Ring‐Closing Reaction of Axially Chiral Compounds
Authors: Oikawa Sonau , Utsugi Yuki , Ohno Osamu , Yasui Eiko
Published: May 2024

Aza[6]helicene and aza[7]helicene were synthesized by Fridel‐Crafts‐type cyclization of axially chiral compounds. From the axially chiral compounds prepared by Fischer indole synthesis, aza[6]helicene and aza[7]helicene were synthesized. Aza[7]helicene was also synthesized from an axially chiral pyrrole compound prepared by Piloty‐Robinson‐type pyrrole synthesis through simultaneous cyclization on both sides of the pyrrole ring. Aza[6]helicene isomerized readily at room temperature, while aza[7]helicene isomerization at room temperature was less likely to proceed. The cell growth inhibitory activity of each enantiomer of N‐Me‐aza[7]helicene in HeLa cells was examined. Differences in the strength of activity between the enantiomers were observed.
Meeting migrants: Mourning, possibility and generativity
Authors: O’Loughlin Michael
Published: May 2024

A description of partnership between a school of psychology and a human rights organization that offers asylum services is used as a basis for probing the ethical complexity of activism. “Doing good” is complicated by the insertion of asylum evaluation services into the reductionist and metrics‐based evaluative mechanisms utilized in conventional psychological services and demanded by U.S. and European immigration proceedings. Conceptualization of migration through the lenses of decoloniality, necropolitics, and critical refugee studies lays bare the extraordinary complexity of the journey of involuntary migrants. Some consequences of the imperative to reduce such complex suffering to simple psychometric parameters and medicalized diagnoses are explored, and the paper ends with a plea for a situated, culturally sensitive, and clinically complex understanding of the human suffering entailed by involuntary migration. Activism, it is suggested, is best practiced within complex ethical frameworks that ensure that, at a minimum, we do no harm to those we seek to serve.
Recent Development of Physical Hydrogen Storage: Insights into Global Outlook and Future Applications
Authors: Ali Lashari Zeeshan , Haq Bashirul , Al‐Shehri Dhafer , Zaman Ehsan , Al‐Ahmed Amir , Lashari Najeebullah , Zakir Hossain S. M.
Published: May 2024

Transition of global energy market towards an environment‐friendly sustainable society requires a profound transformation from fossil fuel to zero carbon emission fuel. To cope with this goal production ofrenewable energy is accelerating worldwide. Research in renewable energy from production and storage to practical utilization requires an organized approach. One of the best renewable energy carrier is the hydrogen, due to its clean combustion and abundance. Nonetheless, its storage is a critical challenge to its success. Hydrogen must be stored long after being produced and transported to a storage site. Physical hydrogen storage is vital among hydrogen storage modes, and its shortcoming needs to overcome for its successful and economic benefits. This review intends to discuss the techniques and applications of physical hydrogen storage in the state of compressed gas, liquefied hydrogen gas, and cold/cryo compressed gas concerning their working principle, chemical and physical properties, influencing factors for physical hydrogen storage, and transportation, economics, and global outlook. Insights of several probable physical hydrogen storage (PHS) systems are highlighted. The outcomes of this review envisioned that the PHS still necessitates technological advancements despite having remarkable success. The Liquid Hydrogen Gas storage marks better sustainability than Compressed and Cryo Compressed Gas. The physical hydrogen storage method can store hydrogen in tanks in any state (liquid or gas) under 20 K for the liquid state and ambient temperature for the gaseous state The Bibliographic analysis depicts that the research in hydrogen rising with time and mostly the research in conducted in USA with 231 articles. Prospects and challenges with lessons learned and the limitation opens the door to further research, which would be helpful for efficient and long‐term physical hydrogen storage.
Perioperative alpha blockers in voiding dysfunction secondary to prostate biopsy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Lim Sean , Lim Kylie Yen‐Yi , Qu Liang , Ranasinha Sanjeeva , Dat Anthony , Brown Matthew , Manohar Paul , Harper Matthew , Donnellan Scott , Ranasinghe Weranja
Published: May 2024

Introduction and Objectives

Voiding dysfunction remains a common side effect postprostate biopsy leading to significant morbidity. Alpha blockers have emerged as a potential therapeutic option to mitigate this risk, with various centres already incorporating its use in practice. Despite this, the literature regarding its efficacy remains inconclusive. Hence, a systematic review was performed to quantify the effect of perioperative alpha blockers on prostate biopsy‐related voiding function.

Methods

A systematic search in MEDLINE, Embase and PubMed between January 1989 and July 2023 was performed to identify relevant articles. Two independent reviewers independently screened abstracts, full texts and performed data extraction. Data including International Prostate Symptom Scores (IPSS), voiding flow rates (Qmax), postvoid residuals (PVR), rates of acute urinary retention (AUR) and quality of life (QoL) scores were extracted. Results were combined in an inverse variance random effects meta‐analysis.

Results

A total 808 patients from six randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing alpha blockers to controls were included. All articles excluded patients with pre‐existing voiding dysfunction. Pooled outcomes demonstrated statistically significant differences favouring alpha blocker usage in all objective and subjective measures including IPSS (mean difference 4.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.58–5.84, p < 0.00001), PVR (mean difference 20.41 mL, 95% CI 3.44–37.39, p = 0.02), Qmax (mean difference 3.07 mL/s, 95% CI 2.55–3.59, p < 0.00001), QoL (weighted‐mean difference 0.82, CI 0.17–1.48, p = 0.01) as well as overall risk of AUR (odds ratio 0.22, CI 0.09–0.55, p = 0.001). There was variable heterogeneity (I2 = 0–86%) between outcomes.

Conclusions

This review highlights the potential role of alpha blockers in improving urinary function and reducing adverse voiding outcomes postprostate biopsy. The standard practice of incorporating the usage of perioperative alpha blockers may be considered to reduce the morbidity of voiding complications secondary to prostate biopsy.
A novel fluorescent indicator‐based fluorene derivative for rapid and visual trace water sensing
Authors: Chen Juan , Cui Shengfeng , Wan Jingwei , Hu Meng , Liu Yan , Meng Hongmin , Li Wei , Liu Haifang
Published: May 2024

Fluorene nucleus derivatives show great potential for building outstanding fluorescence probes. In this paper, a novel fluorescent probe was developed by reacting with fluorene core with azacyclobutane, which exhibits typical solvation chromogenic effect in solvent. The fluorescence of the probe quenched in highly polar solvent. Based on this phenomenon, a novel fluorescence system for trace water was constructed. The response of this probe was fast (30 s) and sensitive for the detection of trace water in organic solvents, and the detection limit of water content in DMSO reached 0.13%. In addition, the probe can also be made as a test strip combined with homemade portable device and a smartphone for rapid detection of trace water. The luminescence mechanism of the probe is theoretically calculated based on time‐contained density functional theory (TDDFT). To showcase its practicality, it has been applied for the detection of trace water in honey and alcohol by dipstick. This method provides a new idea for designing efficient fluorescent probes based on dipstick and mobile phone rapid detection.
DNA origami scaffold promoting nerve guidance and regeneration
Authors: Giron Jonathan , Antman‐Passig Merav , Zilony Neta , Schori Hadas , Bachelet Ido , Shefi Orit
Published: May 2024

Self‐assembly of biological elements into biomimetic cargo carriers for targeting and delivery is a promising approach. However, it still holds practical challenges. We developed a functionalization approach of DNA origami (DO) nanostructures with neuronal growth factor (NGF) for manipulating neuronal systems. NGF bioactivity and its interactions with the neuronal system were demonstrated in vitro and in vivo models. The DO elements fabricated by molecular self‐assembly have manipulated the surrounding environment through static spatially and temporally controlled presentation of ligands to the cell surface receptors. Our data showed effective bioactivity in differentiating PC12 cells in vitro. Furthermore, the DNA origami NGF (DON) affected the growth directionality and spatial capabilities of dorsal root ganglion neurons in culture by introducing a chemotaxis effect along a gradient of functionalized DO structures. Finally, we showed that these elements provide enhanced axonal regeneration in a rat sciatic nerve injury model in vivo. This study is a proof of principle for the functionality of DO in neuronal manipulation and regeneration. The approach proposed here, of an engineered platform formed out of programmable nanoscale elements constructed of DO, could be extended beyond the nervous system and revolutionize the fields of regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, and cell biology.
TIR predictor and optimizer: Web‐tools for accurate prediction of translation initiation rate and precision gene design in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Chakarborty Sulagno , Irshad Inayat Ullah , Mahima  , Sharma Ajeet K.
Published: May 2024

Translation initiation is the primary determinant of the rate of protein production. The variation in the rate with which this step occurs can cause up to three orders of magnitude differences in cellular protein levels. Several mRNA features, including mRNA stability in proximity to the start codon, coding sequence length, and presence of specific motifs in the mRNA molecule, have been shown to influence the translation initiation rate. These molecular factors acting at different strengths allow precise control of in vivo translation initiation rate and thus the rate of protein synthesis. However, despite the paramount importance of translation initiation rate in protein synthesis, accurate prediction of the absolute values of initiation rate remains a challenge. In fact, as of now, there is no available model for predicting the initiation rate in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. To address this, we train a machine learning model for predicting the in vivo initiation rate in S. cerevisiae transcripts. The model is trained using a diverse set of mRNA transcripts, enabling the comparison of initiation rates across different transcripts. Our model exhibited excellent accuracy in predicting the translation initiation rate and demonstrated its effectiveness with both endogenous and exogenous transcripts. Then, by combining the machine learning model with the Monte‐Carlo search algorithm, we have also devised a method to optimize the nucleotide sequence of any gene to achieve a specific target initiation rate. The machine learning model we've developed for predicting translation initiation rates, along with the gene optimization method, are deployed as a web server. Both web servers are accessible for free at the following link: ajeetsharmalab.com/TIRPredictor. Thus, this research advances our fundamental understanding of translation initiation processes, with direct applications in biotechnology.
EDUPERES and GAMERES: A smart interactive education platform and digital gamification for basic circuit analysis
Authors: Uluskan Seçkin
Published: May 2024

This paper introduces Education Platform for Equivalent Resistance (EDUPERES) and Gamification of Equivalent Resistance (GAMERES), two different parts of a new computer aided education platform with interactive and imaginative design and game elements, which have been created during 4 years. In Vocational School of Transportation of Eskişehir Technical University, electrical circuit analysis is a compact course which exhaustively yet quickly covers all the DC and AC circuit concepts. During the course, it is observed that some students have difficulties in some basic capabilities such as calculation of equivalent resistance of either a standard or a compact circuit, dividing currents, and so on. More sadly, this inability spreads to the rest of the semester. This study aims to overcome this issue through a smart interactive education platform and gamification. The first part, that is, EDUPERES visualizes and animates the solutions of electrical circuits. To make the students exercise circuit questions, it provides an interface which simulates the comfort of using paper and pencil. This platform is powered by a smart algorithm to watch almost all of the actions of the students and to give prompt warnings. It allows students to transform the shapes of compact circuits during circuit reduction. The second part, that is, GAMERES imaginatively converts the circuit questions into action, competition, shooter, puzzle, and maze games. Via box plots and Mann–Whitney–Wilcoxon nonparametric tests, it is shown that EDUPERES and GAMERES can significantly increase students' learning. The success of EDUPERES and GAMERES is discussed with regard to previous studies and gamers' motivations.