bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of extra‐pulmonary vein triggers with low‐voltage area and clinical recurrence in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing catheter ablation
Authors: Park In Jae , Kim Daehoon , Yu Hee Tae , Kim Tae‐Hoon , Uhm Jae‐Sun , Joung Boyoung , Lee Moon‐Hyoung , Hwang Chun , Pak Hui‐Nam
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives

Although extra‐pulmonary vein (PV) triggers (ExPVTs) play a role in atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after catheter ablation (AFCA), the mechanism is unknown. We explored whether the locations of ExPVTs were associated with low‐voltage scar areas (LVAs).

Methods

Among 2255 consecutive patients who underwent a de novo AFCA, 1696 (male 72.1%, median 60 years old, paroxysmal 64.7%) were included who underwent isoproterenol provocation and voltage mapping of the left atrium (LA) during their procedures. We investigated the associations between ExPVTs and their mean LA voltage and colocalization of ExPVTs within LVAs (<0.2 mV).

Results

We observed ExPVTs in 181 (10.7%) patients (60 in the LA, 99 in the right atrium [RA], 16 biatrial, and 6 unmappable). A lower mean LA voltage was independently associated with the existence of ExPVTs (OR 0.77 per 1 SD mV increase, 95% CI 0.60–0.99, p = .039). Among 76 patients who had ExPVTs[LA], 43 (56.6%) had ExPVTs within LVAs. During a median of a 42‐month follow‐up, patients with ExPVTs had a higher AF recurrence than those without (HR 1.87, 95% CI 1.48–2.37, Log‐rank p < .001), but colocalization of ExPVTs and LVAs (Log‐rank p = .544) and the anatomical location of ExPVTs (Log‐rank p = .084) did not affect the rhythm outcome.

Conclusions

The presence of ExPVTs was associated with low LA voltage and poor rhythm outcome post‐AFCA, but the colocalization of ExPVTs and LVA in LA did not affect rhythm outcome.
Effects of bacterial cellulose/thyme essential oil emulsion coating on the shelf life of chilled chicken meat
Authors: Xu Yuelong , Xin Jiajin , Lyu Yunbin , Zhang Chong
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a fiber substance produced by microbial fermentation. It is widely used in the food preservation industry because of its extremely pure texture, high crystallinity and high biocompatibility. In the present study, bacterial cellulose/thyme essential oil (BC/TEO‐E) with antibacterial and fresh‐keeping functions was prepared by ultrasonic treatment of modified bacterial cellulose for encapsulation of thyme essential oil, which effectively inhibited the spoilage of chilled chicken.

RESULTS

The purified BC, produced by Acetobacter xylinum ATCC 53524, was ultrasonically treated wih different times (0, 30, 60 and 90 min). Transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and zeta potential were used to characterize the structure of BC after ultrasound, showing that BC, treated for 30 min, had the optimal fiber structure, crystallinity (85.8%), thermal stability (347.77 °C) and solution stability (−26.63 ± 1.96 mV). BC/TEO‐E was prepared by a homogenizer for the preservation of chilled chicken. Optical microscopy indicated that the BC/TEO‐E prepared by 0.5% BC had optimal dispersion and stability, and even no delamination was observed in the emulsion. Compared with other groups (control, 0.5% BC and Tween‐E), the total number of colonies and coliforms in chilled chicken treated with 0.5% BC/TEO‐E was the lowest during the whole storage period (12 days), indicating that it can effectively inhibit bacterial growth. In addition, total volatile base nitrogen (TVB‐N), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, pH and drip loss results showed that 0.5% BC/TEO‐E could effectively inhibit the spoilage of chilled chicken compared to the other treatment groups.

CONCLUSION

All of the results acquired in the present study indicate that BC/TEO‐E has a potential application in chilled chicken preservation. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ultrasound Incorporation in Gross Anatomy Labs in a Master of Medical Sciences Program
Authors: Robertson Taylor , Meyer Kimberly , Kerr Marcel Satsky , Gibson John , Bradley Libby , Reeves Rustin , Handler Emma
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Teaching ultrasound imaging is on the rise in undergraduate medical anatomy education. However, there is little research exploring the use of ultrasound in preparatory graduate programs. The purpose of this study is to identify the effects of ultrasound imaging inclusion in a graduate gross anatomy course.

Methods

Master of Medical Sciences students were enrolled in a prosection‐based anatomy course that included pinned cadaver stations and an ultrasound station. Using ultrasound, teaching assistants imaged volunteers demonstrating anatomical structures students previously learned at cadaver stations. Students answered one ultrasound image question on each practical exam and were asked to participate in a pre‐ and post‐course survey. Student practical and lecture exam scores and final course grades from the 2022 cohort were compared to a historical control cohort from 2021 via statistical analysis, including a survey administered to the 2022 cohort.

Results

Two hundred students from the 2021 cohort and 164 students from the 2022 cohort participated in this study. Students in the 2022 cohort had significantly higher scores in 1 of the 5 practical exams (P < .05, d = .289), and 2 of the 5 written exams (P < .05, d = .207), (P < .05, d = .311). Survey data revealed increased (P < .05, d = 1.203) learning outcome achievement from pre‐survey to post‐survey in the intervention cohort. Students who correctly answered the ultrasound question performed significantly better on practical's 3 (P < .05) and 4 (P < .05) than those who missed the ultrasound question.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that ultrasound imaging in a cadaver lab is beneficial to graduate students' learning and understanding of gross anatomy.
Novel design of compact quad‐band divider using stepped impedance coupled lines
Authors: Wang Xinhuai , Li Xin , Xu Yin , Wang Wen , Xu Hongyang , Kang Le
Published: February 2024

This letter presents a novel compact quad‐band power divider using stepped impedance coupled lines. The power divider adopts a stepped impedance coupling line with two transmission zeros as the primary transmission unit and forms a flexible quad‐band in the architecture of the second‐order power divider design through clever impedance matching and transmission zeros design. In addition, the complete and detailed formula derivation and calculation process of this power divider are given, and the specific parameters of the transmission line and coupled line model of the power divider are obtained. Finally, a novel compact power divider operating at 0.9, 1.8, 3.5, and 4.4 GHz is designed and implemented based on the calculation. The test results of the power divider show good performance and are consistent with the simulation results, which proves the effectiveness of the method and structure design.
Cryogen‐free 400‐MHz nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer as a versatile tool for pharmaceutical process analytical technology
Authors: Silva Elipe Maria Victoria , Ndukwe Ikenna Edward , Murray James I.
Published: February 2024

The discovery of new ceramic materials containing Ba‐La‐Cu oxides in 1986 that exhibited superconducting properties at high temperatures in the range of 35 K or higher, recognized with the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1987, opened a new world of opportunities for nuclear magnetic resonance (NMRs) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) to move away from liquid cryogens. This discovery expands the application of high temperature superconducting (HTS) materials to fields beyond the chemical and medical industries, including electrical power grids, energy, and aerospace. The prototype 400‐MHz cryofree HTS NMR spectrometer installed at Amgen's chemistry laboratory has been vital for a variety of applications such as structure analysis, reaction monitoring, and CASE‐3D studies with RDCs. The spectrometer has been integrated with Amgen's chemistry and analytical workflows, providing pipeline project support in tandem with other Kinetic Analysis Platform technologies. The 400‐MHz cryofree HTS NMR spectrometer, as the name implies, does not require liquid cryogens refills and has smaller footprint that facilitates installation into a chemistry laboratory fume hood, sharing the hood with a process chemistry reactor. Our evaluation of its performance for structural analysis with CASE‐3D protocol and for reaction monitoring of Amgen's pipeline chemistry was successful. We envision that the HTS magnets would become part of the standard NMR and MRI spectrometers in the future. We believe that while the technology is being developed, there is room for all magnet options, including HTS, low temperature superconducting (LTS) magnets, and low field benchtop NMRs with permanent magnets, where utilization will be dependent on application type and costs.
Patterns and assessment of spastic hemiplegic gait
Authors: Li Sheng
Published: February 2024

Hemiparetic gait disorders are common in stroke survivors. A circumductory gait is often considered the typical hemiparetic gait. In clinical practice, a wide spectrum of abnormal gait patterns is observed, depending on the severity of weakness and spasticity, and the anatomical distribution of spasticity. Muscle strength is the key determinant of gait disorders in hemiparetic stroke survivors. Spasticity and its associated involuntary activation of synergistic spastic muscles often alter posture of involved joint(s) and subsequently the alignment of hip, knee, and ankle joints, resulting in abnormal gait patterns. Due to combinations of various levels of muscle weakness and spasticity and their interactions with ground reaction force, presentations of gait disorders are variable. From a neuromechanical perspective, a stepwise visual gait analysis approach is proposed to identify primary underlying causes. In this approach, the pelvic and hip joint movement is examined first. The pelvic girdle constitutes three kinematic determinants. Its abnormality determines the body vector and compensatory kinetic chain reactions in the knee and ankle joints. The second step is to assess the ankle and foot complex abnormality. The last step is to examine abnormality of the knee joint. Assessment of muscle strength and spasticity of hip, knee, and ankle/foot joints needs to be performed before these steps. Lidocaine nerve blocks can be a useful diagnostic tool. Recognizing different patterns and identifying the primary causes are critical to developing clinical interventions to improve gait functions.
Comparative study of mobile acoustic uroflowmetry and conventional uroflowmetry: A systematic review and meta analysis
Authors: Rangganata Ervandy , Rahardjo Harrina Erlianti , Rasyid Nur , Widia Fina , Murwantara I Made , Yugopuspito Pujianto , Gemilang Bayu , Nasher Fakhri Zuhdian , Syadza Yasmina Zahra , Yonathan Kevin , Birowo Ponco
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Uroflowmetry is a noninvasive measurement of the volume of urine excreted over time. Conventional uroflowmetry has become the main modality of urine flow measurement within time. However, this method requires the patient to be present in the hospital or healthcare setting, thus sometimes making the patients feel uncomfortable to undergo the examination. This led to multiple measurements which are inconvenient for the patients. Mobile acoustic uroflowmetry (sono‐uroflowmetry) has been proposed as an alternative method of urine flow measurement due to its portability. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of sono‐uroflowmetry as compared to conventional uroflowmetry.

Methods

Electronic databases searching were done using prespecified search strategy to retrieve articles related with uroflowmetry. In addition, hand‐search strategy was used to identify additional articles. Studies with participants who had undergone sono‐uroflowmetry were included. Voided volume, voiding duration, maximum flow rate, and average flow rate were identified and used to determine the outcomes of measurement. The quality of included articles was conducted using checklist for Diagnostic Test Accuracy Studies by JBI.

Results

Initial search yielded 335 articles with four additional papers identified through hand‐searching process. Six papers were retrieved and further used in the narrative synthesis. Five studies enrolled male participants, while only one of the papers enrolled female participants as additional subgroup analysis. Therefore, the meta‐analysis was performed by using only male participants. Based on the meta‐analysis results, there were strong to very strong positive correlation in voided volume, voiding time, average flow, average flow rate, and maximum flow rate between sono and conventional uroflowmetry.

Conclusion

Sonouroflowmetry showed significant positive correlations to conventional uroflowmetry, signifying its use as an alternative of conventional uroflowmetry.
Amide proton transfer weighted imaging in pediatric neuro‐oncology: initial experience
Authors: Obdeijn Iris V. , Wiegers Evita C. , Alic Lejla , Plasschaert Sabine L. A. , Kranendonk Mariëtte E. G. , Hoogduin Hans M. , Klomp Dennis W. J. , Wijnen Jannie P. , Lequin Maarten H.
Published: February 2024

Amide proton transfer weighted (APTw) imaging enables in vivo assessment of tissue‐bound mobile proteins and peptides through the detection of chemical exchange saturation transfer. Promising applications of APTw imaging have been shown in adult brain tumors. As pediatric brain tumors differ from their adult counterparts, we investigate the radiological appearance of pediatric brain tumors on APTw imaging. APTw imaging was conducted at 3 T. APTw maps were calculated using magnetization transfer ratio asymmetry at 3.5 ppm. First, the repeatability of APTw imaging was assessed in a phantom and in five healthy volunteers by calculating the within‐subject coefficient of variation (wCV). APTw images of pediatric brain tumor patients were analyzed retrospectively. APTw levels were compared between solid tumor tissue and normal‐appearing white matter (NAWM) and between pediatric high‐grade glioma (pHGG) and pediatric low‐grade glioma (pLGG) using t‐tests. APTw maps were repeatable in supratentorial and infratentorial brain regions (wCV ranged from 11% to 39%), except those from the pontine region (wCV between 39% and 50%). APTw images of 23 children with brain tumor were analyzed (mean age 12 years ± 5, 12 male). Significantly higher APTw values are present in tumor compared with NAWM for both pHGG and pLGG (p < 0.05). APTw values were higher in pLGG subtype pilocytic astrocytoma compared with other pLGG subtypes (p < 0.05). Non‐invasive characterization of pediatric brain tumor biology with APTw imaging could aid the radiologist in clinical decision‐making.
Development and validation of self‐screening tool for nutrition risk in patients with gastric cancer after gastrectomy: A study protocol
Authors: Chen Zhiming , Yu Haichi , Yuan Hua , Wang Jia , Wang Qiuchen , Zhu Mingyue , Yao Jiannan , Zhang Xiuying , Xue Hui
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study aims to develop and validate a clinical nutrition risk screening tool to predict nutrition risk in home for the patients with gastric cancer after surgery at home so that high‐risk patients can be targeted for preventive nutrition care.

Design

The development of self‐screening tool for nutrition risk in patients with gastric cancer after gastrectomy (SNRSGC) through literature review, expert panel ratings and cognitive interview; the validation of SNRSGC is evaluated through prospective research on participants.

Methods

This research is divided into four parts: Step 1, Identification of a potential referred nutritional risk screening; Step 2, Item generation and scoring are selected through literature review methods to screen sensitive indicators which can reflect the nutritional characteristics of patients after gastric cancer surgery, establish the frame and update according to the latest guidelines; Step 3, Item reduction is determined by the rating of SNRSGC items by an expert panel and cognitive interview; Step 4, During the validation stage, we conducted research design based on the Consensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments checklist to evaluate the validity, reliability, interpretability and acceptability of SNRSGC.

Results

SNRSGC is the first screening tool specifically to predict nutrition risk for stay‐at‐home postoperative patients with gastric cancer, which can help patients at home detect nutritional risks at home in time and guide patients to seek medical treatment as soon as possible to improve their nutritional status.
5 questions with: Carrie Phillips of University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: February 2024

In our recurring “5 Questions With” series, the Recruiting and Retaining Adult Learners marketing column profiles a communications professional through a brief Q&A. This month, we introduce you to Carrie Phillips, chief communications and marketing officer at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
Mercer On Mission program makes global impact by integrating study abroad with service learning
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: February 2024

Craig McMahan, M.Div., Ph.D., was just one year into working as Mercer University's Minister, Dean of Chapel, and Assistant Professor of Religion when the new university president gave him an assignment: Develop a program that integrates study abroad with meaningful service‐learning projects that go beyond “hugging babies and painting walls.” And that's how Mercer On Mission was born. In 14 years, the program has completed 163 trips with 2,877 Mercer students and faculty participants visiting 45 different international sites.
An insight into recent updates on analytical techniques for bioactive alkaloids
Authors: Saini Aniket , Seni Kushal , Chawla Pooja A. , Chawla Viney , Ganti Subrahmanya S.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Alkaloids represent a wide class of naturally existing nitrogen‐containing organic compounds having diverse biological activities. They are primary bioactive substances extracted from diverse plant parts. Due to their diverse biological activities, they are frequently used as medicines. The alkaloids have diverse pharmacological impacts on the human body; alkaloids are used for prevention, treatment, and reduction of discomfort associated with chronic illnesses. As most alkaloids exist in plants in complex form, combined with numerous other natural plant components, it is essential to recognize and characterize these molecules using different analytical techniques.

Objectives

We aimed to review the literature on the methods and protocols for the analysis of naturally occurring alkaloids.

Methods

We carried out a literature survey using the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases and other relevant published materials. The keywords used in the searches were “alkaloids,” “analytical methods,” “HPLC method,” “GC method,” “electrochemical methods,” and “bioanalytical methods,” in various combinations.

Results

In this article, several classes of alkaloids are presented, along with their biological activities. Moreover, it includes a thorough explanation of chromatographic techniques, hyphenated techniques, electrochemical techniques, and current trending analytical methods utilized for the isolation, identification, and comprehensive characterization of alkaloids.

Conclusions

The various analytical techniques play an important role in the identification as well as the characterization of various alkaloids from plants, plasma samples, and urine samples. The hyphenation of various chromatographic techniques with mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy plays a crucial role in the characterization of unknown compounds.
Back from the dead: A fungus gnat pollinator turns Arisaema lethal trap into nursery
Authors: Suetsugu Kenji , Nishigaki Hiroki , Kakishima Satoshi , Sueyoshi Masahiro , Sugiura Shinji
Published: February 2024

Societal Impact Statement

The research explores the complex interaction between flowering plants and their pollinators, specifically focusing on the genus Arisaema. Unlike most plants, Arisaema has a distinctive trait in which killing pollinators can be beneficial. Traditionally, this interaction has been viewed as highly antagonistic because it appears to favor the plants at the expense of the pollinators. However, new evidence reveals that a pollinator uses the lethal floral trap of Arisaema thunbergii as a nursery. Remarkably, some individuals probably even escape from the trap after laying eggs. This finding challenges the prevailing notion that deceptive pollination is the sole outcome in Arisaema, a genus known for its intricate lethal pollination mechanisms.

While many flowering plants engage in mutualistic relationships with their pollinators, flower‐insect interactions are not always mutually beneficial. Some plants exploit their pollinators by deceptively promising rewards without delivering them. Among such plants, the genus Arisaema (Araceae) is notable for its antagonistic behavior towards pollinators, as female plants invariably entrap them with lethal effects.

Here we tested the hypothesis that the succulent appendix of some Arisaema species, such as Arisaema thunbergii, may serve as a food source for pollinator larvae, leading to the possibility of nursery pollination. To investigate this, we retrieved adult insect corpses trapped within the spathes of A. thunbergii. Subsequently, we incubated the spathes after collecting the corpses to determine if conspecific insects emerged from them.

We present novel evidence that one of the main pollinating fungus gnats, Leia ishitanii, uses the lethal floral trap of A. thunbergii inflorescences as a nursery. Astonishingly, some L. ishitanii individuals may even succeed in escaping from the female spathe after depositing their eggs.

These findings challenge the conventional understanding that deceptive pollination is the norm within the genus Arisaema. The interaction between A. thunbergii and L. ishitanii, in which a significant portion of female adults die inside but still reproduction seems successful, suggests an intermediate stage between brood‐site deception and nursery pollination mutualism.
The Behavior of the Intercalant AlCl4 Anion during the Formation of Graphite Intercalation Compound: An X‐ray Absorption Fine Structure Study
Authors: Greco Giorgia , Elia Giuseppe Antonio , Kayser Yves , Beckhoff Burkhard , Perestjuk Marko , Raoux Simone , Hahn Rober
Published: February 2024

This work aims to study the insertion of anion in the crystalline structure of oriented pyrolytic graphite (PG) at the point of view of the anion itself. The electronic and atomic structures of the anion at different intercalation stages are studied. In particular double‐edge (bicolor) X‐ray absorption spectroscopy at the Al and Cl K‐edges is carried out, highlighting a contraction of the anion bonding at the highest intercalation degree obtained electrochemically (stage 3), while the electronic population changes for both the edges upon cycle.
Experimental Integration of Quantum Key Distribution and Post‐Quantum Cryptography in a Hybrid Quantum‐Safe Cryptosystem
Authors: Garms Lydia , Paraïso Taofiq K. , Hanley Neil , Khalid Ayesha , Rafferty Ciara , Grant James , Newman James , Shields Andrew J. , Cid Carlos , O'Neill Maire
Published: February 2024

Quantum key distribution (QKD) and post‐quantum cryptography (PQC) are the two counter measures against cryptographic attacks via quantum computing. While QKD offers information theoretic security but limited authentication scalability, PQC facilitates scalable authentication in high density networks but is not information theoretic secure. Therefore, an ideal quantum‐safe framework should efficiently leverage the complementarity of both techniques. However, despite growing efforts in integrating both, current realizations have focused on channel authentication, and a complete cryptosystem addressing both hybrid authentication and hybrid key exchange is yet to be demonstrated. Here, an authenticated hybrid key exchange protocol is introduced that incorporates PQC and QKD in a modular and information‐theoretic secure architecture. The quantum‐safe protocol is inherently resilient to catastrophic cryptographic failures and provides both forward and post‐compromise security. As proof‐of‐concept implementation, the cryptosystem on a QKD hardware prototype is integrated, with the QKD processing, PQC key exchange and secret state masking via physical unclonable functions (PUFs) all running on a single field programmable gate array (FPGA). This work paves the way for the deployment of versatile and modular quantum‐safe networks that exploit the complementarity of PQC and QKD.
Crisis communication during COVID‐19: Insights from Pennsylvania and Florida local governments
Authors: Chatterjee Vaswati , Arapis Theodore
Published: February 2024

This study examines the determinants of local governments’ (LGs') adoption of crisis communication strategies during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Recognizing the pivotal role of crisis communication in public health emergencies and the central role of LGs as frontline responders, this research offers valuable insight into pandemic response and management. Employing ordinary least squares regression, we analyzed data from our Pandemic Management Survey, which was distributed across Pennsylvania and Florida municipal executives during the spring of 2021. According to our results, LG managers’ concerns related to school and business closures, as well as their efficacy beliefs, had a positive impact on the adoption of communication strategies. Our results also showed that funding from the CARES Act significantly improved LGs’ capacity to implement these strategies. Additionally, our study underscores the significance of community vulnerability factors in shaping crisis communication efforts.
Tuning function‐based command filtered fault‐tolerant fixed‐time control for nonlinear systems with sensor/actuator faults
Authors: Qi Hongji , Chen Ming , Wu Libing , Peng Kaixiang
Published: February 2024

In this article, the issue of fixed‐time fault‐tolerant control is studied for a class of nonlinear systems with sensor/actuator faults. The tuning functions and command filters are used to solve the problem of over‐parameterization and differential explosion in traditional backstepping method. The above methods simplify the derivation and reduce the calculation burden of the system respectively. Moreover, the introduction of fixed‐time control further improves the rapidity of the system. Another feature of this design is that the fixed‐time stability is finally realized by introducing a special Lyapunov function, rather than the practical fixed‐time stability. The tracking error can be guaranteed to converge to the origin in a fixed time. Simulation results show that the proposed control strategy is effective even if there are actuator/actuator faults in the system.
Evaluation of the influence of surface and subsurface acidity correction methodologies on soil compaction in agropastoral systems under no‐till
Authors: Barbosa Borges Wander Luis , Hipólito Jorge Luiz , Piantra Luan Carlos , Dalto de Souza Isabela Malaquias , Sporch Helimar Balarone da Silva , Gatto Juliano Pedro Henrique , Fuzaro Rodrigues Letícia Nayara
Published: February 2024

Surface and subsurface acidity and soil compaction restrict root exploration and impair crop yields in agropastoral systems under no‐till. To support the development of surface and subsurface acidity correction methodologies that can decrease soil compaction in agropastoral systems under no‐till, this study tested the following hypotheses: (a) the incorporation of limestone with plowing and harrowing (conventional tillage) for surface and subsurface acidity correction decreases soil compaction in agropastoral systems under no‐till, (b) the subsurface application of hydrated lime with a shank subsoiler‐fertilizer (minimum tillage) for surface and subsurface acidity correction decreases soil compaction in agropastoral systems under no‐till, and (c) the surface application of Ca compounds (no tillage) for surface and subsurface acidity correction increases soil compaction in agropastoral systems under no‐till. In a field experiment in an agropastoral system under no‐till in an Arenic Hapludalf in Brazil, the abilities of three application management methodologies (no tillage, conventional tillage, and minimum tillage) for three Ca compounds (limestone, phosphogypsum, and hydrated lime) to ameliorate acidity in the surface and subsurface layers and decrease soil compaction were evaluated. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with four replications. The results support the following conclusions: (a) the incorporation of limestone with plowing and harrowing does not decrease soil compaction in agropastoral systems under no‐till; (b) the subsurface application of hydrated lime with a shank subsoiler‐fertilizer does not decrease soil compaction in agropastoral systems under no‐till; and (c) the surface application of limestone does not increase soil compaction in agropastoral systems under no‐till.
Effective Bidirectional Mott–Schottky Catalysts Derived from Spent LiFePO4 Cathodes for Robust Lithium−Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhang Mengjie , Zhang Zhongshuai , Wu Fang , Wang Mengxiao , Yu Xiaoyuan
Published: February 2024

It is deemed as a tough yet profound project to comprehensively cope with a range of detrimental problems of lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs), mainly pertaining to the shuttle effect of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) and sluggish sulfur conversion. Herein, a Co2P‐Fe2P@N‐doped carbon (Co2P‐Fe2P@NC) Mott–Schottky catalyst is introduced to enable bidirectionally stimulated sulfur conversion. This catalyst is prepared by simple carbothermal reduction of spent LiFePO4 cathode and LiCoO2. The experimental and theoretical calculation results indicate that thanks to unique surface/interface properties derived from the Mott–Schottky effect, full anchoring of LiPSs, mediated Li2S nucleation/dissolution, and bidirectionally expedited “solid⇌liquid⇌solid” kinetics can be harvested. Consequently, the S/Co2P‐Fe2P@NC manifests high reversible capacity (1569.9 mAh g−1), superb rate response (808.9 mAh g−1 at 3C), and stable cycling (a low decay rate of 0.06% within 600 cycles at 3C). Moreover, desirable capacity (5.35 mAh cm−2) and cycle stability are still available under high sulfur loadings (4–5 mg cm−2) and lean electrolyte (8 µL mg−1) conditions. Furthermore, the as‐proposed universal synthetic route can be extended to the preparation of other catalysts such as Mn2P‐Fe2P@NC from spent LiFePO4 and MnO2. This work unlocks the potential of carbothermal reduction phosphating to synthesize bidirectional catalysts for robust LSBs.
Achieving 1060 mW cm−2 with 0.6 mg cm−2 Pt Loading Based on Imidazole‐Riched Semi‐Interpenetrating Proton Exchange Membrane at High‐Temperature Fuel Cells
Authors: Lin Jingjing , Wang Peng , Bin Jinsheng , Wang Lei
Published: February 2024

Enhancing phosphoric acid (PA) doping in polybenzimidazole (PBI) membranes is crucial for improving the performance of high‐temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT‐PEMFCs). However, excessive PA uptake often leads to drawbacks such as PA loss and compromised mechanical properties when surpassing PA capacity of PBI basic functionality. Herein, a new strategy that integrates high PA uptake, mechanical strength, and acid retention is proposed by embedding linear PBI chains into a crosslinked poly(N‐vinylimidazole) (PVIm) backbone via in‐situ polymerization. The imidazole (Im)‐riched semi‐interpenetrating polymer network (sIPN) membrane with high‐density nitrogen moieties, significantly enhancing the PA doping degree to 380% shows an excellent conductivity (0.108 S cm−1). Meanwhile, the crosslinking structure in the sIPN membrane ensures adequate mechanical properties, low hydrogen permeability, and a relatively low swelling ratio. As a result, the single cell based on the membrane achieves the highest power density of 1060 mW cm−2 with a low Pt loading (0.6 mg cm−2) up to now and exhibits excellent fuel cell stability.
Building emotional resilience to foster well‐being by utilising reflective practise in the sonography workplace
Authors: White Alison , Humphreys Linda , Oomens Donna
Published: February 2024

Reflection and reflective practise are well recognised tools that are utilised by healthcare professionals to support self‐awareness and self‐care. In turn, self‐care is a critical component of the wellbeing and the capacity for resilience of healthcare professionals in response to day‐to‐day exposure to emotionally and psychologically challenging situations. Affective reflection, the process of considering and analysing thoughts, feelings and emotions though written dialogue (the act of reflective writing), has been shown to be beneficial for promoting and building resilience in healthcare professionals. Despite the known benefits of these strategies for maintaining wellbeing and avoiding compassion fatigue and burnout, the discourse on the use of affective reflection and reflective writing in the sonography profession is limited. Interventions such as reflection, reflective practise and reflective writing should not be underestimated as tools to promote the adaptive abilities and the degree of individual emotional resilience of sonographers. Long term positive outcomes supported by utilising and practising reflection include the maintenance of emotional stability and an increase in the scope for empathy and subsequently, an enhancement of quality of practise and patient care. This article aims to provide a broad discussion on the practise of affective reflection and showcase the process of reflective writing using written reflective dialogue guides with practical examples relevant to sonography practise. In addition, this paper outlines how these strategies can be incorporated and enacted in the sonography workplace to build resilience.
Extraction, Characterization, Biocompatibility, and Antioxidant Activity of Dillenia Indica L. Fruit Polysaccharide
Authors: Mohanta Bulu , Sen Dhrubo Jyoti , Nayak Amit Kumar
Published: February 2024

The current investigation describes extraction and characterization of aqueous‐soluble polysaccharide (DIFP) from mature Dillenia indica L., fruits to explore its biocompatibility and antioxidant properties (in vitro). In this work, employing the hot‐water extraction method, a whitish brown colored, tasteless, odorless DIFP is extracted (14.45% yield). The findings of the phytochemical identification showed that the extracted DIFP contained both mucilage and carbohydrates. The purity of DIFP is revealed by the examination of three different ash values. 1H NMR spectroscopy, FT‐IR spectroscopy, DSC, and P‐XRD analyses of extracted DIFP are carried out. The results of hemocompatibility (in vitro) experiments, in particular, the determinations of hemolysis percentage (0.80%) and thrombogenicity percentage (5.55%), indicated that the DIFP exhibited nonhemolytic and nonthrombogenic properties. The in vivo acute toxicity evaluation in Swiss Albino male mice clearly presented the absence of any mortality (within 24 h) after intraperitoneal administration of the extracted DIFP (up to 1500 mg kg−1), indicating its nontoxicity, in vivo. Different in vitro tests of antioxidant activity, such as DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radical scavenging, showed a strong antioxidant effect of extracted DIFP. The extracted DIFP (from mature DIFs by hot‐water extraction method) can be used as a natural antioxidant in a variety of applications.
Artificial intelligence in international business
Authors: Ratten Vanessa , Jones Paul , Braga Vitor
Published: February 2024

Artificial intelligence is poised to transform international business through the adoption of new digital technology practices as part of the fourth industrial revolution. The how, when, and why of artificial intelligence implementation in international business is still somewhat unknown but will likely significantly influence performance outcomes, market interpretation, risk prediction, consumer interactions, and technology‐based metrics. With greater emphasis on artificial intelligence‐based tools, the future practice of international business will require digital literacy. This means business managers need to improve the way they analyze artificial intelligence in terms of appreciating its usefulness while maintaining privacy and mitigation strategies. In this editorial, we discuss the current developments regarding artificial intelligence in international business with the goal of identifying future research areas of importance.
What is an academic leader?
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: February 2024

As 2024 begins, I call for us to reflect on this year and consider the next. Over the past several months, we’ve looked at leaders in different fields, such as music, football, and politicians. But now I think it's time for us to remember who we are as leaders. We are academic leaders.
SUNY Westchester CC receives $3 million NSF grant
Authors: Elfman Lois
Published: February 2024

As part of its celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, State University of New York (SUNY) Westchester Community College (WCC) announced it has received a $3 million, five‐year grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to increase the recruitment, retention, and graduation rates of students pursuing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields at Hispanic‐Serving Institutions (HSIs). HSI is a federal designation given to schools that meet various requirements, including at least 25% of enrolled students being of Hispanic background.
The more things change in higher education, the more they stay the same
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: February 2024

Richard Chaite, Executive Director of the National Center for Postsecondary Governance and Finance at the University of Maryland, wrote the following in September 1989:
Discussing crucial race issues by examining beauty pageants
Authors: Elfman Lois
Published: February 2024

Earlier this year, Brittany Lee Lewis, an adjunct professor at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and Wilmington University in Wilmington, Delaware, appeared on the A&E docuseries Secrets of Miss America discussing issues that African American women have faced in the beauty pageant world. While Lewis teaches courses about African American, urban, and 20th‐century U.S. history, there's another reason the TV show sought her expertise. Nine years ago, Lewis was crowned Miss Delaware 2014, and she competed in the Miss America contest.
In vitro chemosensitivity testing of the feline large granular lymphocyte cell line (S87)
Authors: Hartung Svenja , Herden Christiane , Sparenberg Marion , Henrich Manfred
Published: February 2024

Background

Feline large granular lymphocyte (LGL) lymphoma is an aggressive neoplasia characterised by short survival and poor response to chemotherapy.

Objectives

In this study, the effect of different chemotherapeutic agents on the growth kinetics of the feline cell line S87, a non‐MHC‐restricted feline LGL cell line, was investigated. Where possible, IC50 (inhibitory concentration 50) values were determined. The IC50 values of the cell line as lymphoma models can provide clues to the situation in vivo and serve as a basis for studying resistance mechanisms.

Methods

Cells were incubated with various concentrations of vincristine, doxorubicin, 4‐hydroperoxycyclophosphamide, prednisolone, methotrexate and L‐asparaginase for 24 and 48 h, respectively.

Results

The IC50 values could be determined as 14.57 (7.49–28.32) μg/mL at 24 h incubation and 5.72 (4.05–8.07) μg/mL at 48 h incubation for doxorubicin and 9.12 (7.72–10.76) μg/mL at 24 h incubation and 4.53 (3.74–5.47) μg/mL at 48 h incubation for 4‐hydroperpoxycyclophosphamide. Treatment with vincristine and methotrexate resulted in relatively high cell resistance whereas L‐asparaginase and prednisolone treatment led to a reduction in cell number compared to control while cell viability was not affected (cytostatic effect).

Conclusion

Overall, the feline LGL cell line S87 proves to be relatively sensitive to doxorubicin and 4‐hydroperoxycyclophosphamide and relatively resistant to treatment with vincristine, prednisolone, methotrexate and L‐asparaginase. The results of this study can be used for further investigations on resistance mechanisms in feline LGL lymphoma. Doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide can be interpreted as promising candidates for the therapy of feline LGL lymphomas.
On the use of secondary rotors for vertical axis wind turbine power take‐off
Authors: Morgan Laurence , Leithead William , Carroll James
Published: February 2024

This work introduces and explores the use of secondary rotors for vertical axis wind turbine power take‐off. A parametric framework based on optimally designed secondary rotors is developed which calculates the maximum achievable efficiency of power conversion between the primary and secondary rotors. It is shown that practicable rotor designs can convert between 87% and 90% of primary rotor power to the secondary rotors whilst facilitating nacelle mass reductions between 85% and 87% compared to traditional reference turbine drivetrains.
Nitrogen removal performance of improved subsurface wastewater infiltration system under various influent carbon–nitrogen ratios
Authors: Zhou Xulun , Li Haibo , Wang Ang , Wang Xueyan , Chen Xi , Zhang Chenxi
Published: February 2024

Subsurface wastewater infiltration system (SWIS) has been recognized as a simple operation and environmentally friendly technology for wastewater purification. However, effectively removing nitrogen (N) remains a challenge, hindering the widespread application of SWIS. In this study, zero‐valent iron (ZVI) and porous mineral material (PMM) were applied in SWIS to improve the soil matrix. Our results suggested that the addition of ZVI and PMM could simultaneously enhance N removal efficiency and reduce nitrous oxide emissions. This could be attributed to the abundant electrons generated by ZVI alleviating the electronic limitation of denitrification and the porous structure of PMM providing solid phase support for microbial growth. In addition, the abundance of microbial functional genes increased in modified SWIS, which could further explain the higher pollutant removal efficiency. Overall, this study provides new insights into the mitigation of wastewater pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in SWIS.

Practitioner Points

ZVI and PMM can adapt to different C loads and enhance pollutant removal efficiency in SWIS.

Increasing C–N ratios positively affected the nitrate removal performance and negatively affected ammonium removal performance in SWIS.

The amending soil matrix promoted the reduction of the N2O to N2 and greenhouse gas emissions were well controlled.

The abundance of microbial functional genes increased with the improvement of the soil matrix.
Changes in the transformation of nitrogen and phosphorus under different microbial communities in sewage pipes
Authors: Zhou Changfeng , Xie Yuling , Tao Yang , Wei Haodong , Wang Yiyang , Liu Cuiyun
Published: February 2024

Microbial communities living in different environments can affect the transformation of nitrogen and phosphorus in sewage pipes. Two different environments were simulated to investigate the differences in the transformation of nitrogen and phosphorus under different microbial communities in the pipe. Results showed that the concentration of nitrogen and phosphorus changed greatly in the first 25–33 days and the first 21 days, respectively, and then remained stable. The decrease in amino acid nitrogen (AAN) concentration and the increase in ammonia nitrogen (NH4+‐N) concentration in the sediments were evident in the contrast group. The concentrations of total phosphorus (TP), dissolved total phosphorus (DTP), and dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) in the overlying water and interstitial water decreased, and that of TP in the sediment increased. Some microorganisms in the sediments of both groups are related to the transformation of nitrogen and phosphorus, such as Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, Sporacetigenium, Norank_f__Anaerolineaceae, Norank_f__norank_o__PeM15, and Caldisericum. The relative abundance of these microorganisms was remarkably differed between the two groups, which partly caused the difference in nitrogen and phosphorus transformation among overlying water, interstitial water, and sediment in the two environments.

Practitioner Points

The concentration of N and P changed greatly in the first 20–30 days.

AAN and NH4+‐N in sediments had greater concentration variation in contrast group.

In two groups, TP, DTP, and DRP of water decreased, and TP of sediment increased.

Microbe related to the transformation of N and P differed between the two groups.
Wieviel Digitalisierung braucht die HNO-Lehre?
Authors: Schmitz Lisa , Betz Christian S. , Böttcher Arne , Häußler Sophia M. , Praetorius Mark
Published: February 2024

Hintergrund

Digitalisierung ist längst fester Bestandteil des Alltags von Studierenden und zunehmend auch ihrer medizinischen Ausbildung. Es scheint ein ungeschriebenes Gesetz zu sein, dass „digital natives“ möglichst viel Digitalisierung wollen. In dieser Studie wurde beleuchtet, wie Studierende im klinisch-geprägten Abschnitt des Medizinstudiums die zunehmende Digitalisierung der Lehre empfinden und was sie für eine gute Ausbildung benötigen.

Material und Methoden

Die vorliegende Studie analysiert 2 Umfragen, welche mittels Online-Fragebogen erhoben wurden. Zum einen wurden Studierende des 5.–9. Fachsemesters der Medizinischen Fakultät der Universität Hamburg (n = 282) befragt (Umfrage 1). Eine weitere Umfrage adressierte alle Beschäftigten der HNO-Kliniken Deutschlands (n = 175; Umfrage 2).

Ergebnisse

Es nahmen 76 Studierende an Umfrage 1 und 123 Dozierende an Umfrage 2 teil. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass sowohl Studierende als auch Dozierende keinen vollumfänglichen Ersatz von Präsenzlehre durch digitale Formate wünschen. Insgesamt 72,7 % der Studierenden lehnen die Möglichkeit der Vermittlung praktischer Fertigkeiten durch digitale Formate ab. Der Großteil der befragten Studierenden gibt an, in Offline-Formaten eine bessere Konzentration (61,1 %), Teilnahmewahrscheinlichkeit (63,9 %) und Lernmotivation (76,6 %) zu haben. Dozierende hingegen sehen die Digitalisierung zu 40,2 % als Entlastungsmöglichkeit ohne relevante Qualitätsverluste der Lehre.

Schlussfolgerung

Digitale Lehrformate beeinflussen die medizinische Ausbildung der befragten Studierenden negativ. Es bedarf der Interaktion und physischen Anwesenheit zur Steigerung der Lernmotivation. Dies führt zu dem ersten Schluss, dass Studierende einer zunehmenden Digitalisierung des Medizinstudiums kritisch gegenüberstehen.
Kann ein Sturz auf die Schulter (Direktanprall) einen Riss der Rotatorenmanschette verursachen?
Authors: Nyffeler Richard W. , Lustenberger Alois , Bissig Philipp
Published: February 2024

Die Frage, ob ein Sturz direkt auf die Schulter eine Rotatorenmanschettenruptur verursachen kann, beschäftigt Ärzte (und Gerichte) seit vielen Jahren. Gutachter, welche sich auf die versicherungsmedizinische Literatur stützen, lehnen die Unfallkausalität in der Regel ab. Wissenschaftliche Untersuchungen dazu gibt es nicht. Der untenstehende Bericht beschreibt einen typischen Fall, bei dem ein Sturz direkt auf die Schulter eine massive Rotatorenmanschettenruptur verursacht hat.