bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The 13 Urea Breath Test for the Noninvasive Detection ofHelicobacter pylori in Children: Comparison with Culture and Determination of Minimum Analysis Requirements
Authors: Kalach Nicolas , Briet Françoise , Raymond Josette , Benhamou Pierre‐Henri , Barbet Patrik , Bergeret Michel , Senouci Lahouari , Maurel Michèl , Flourié Bernard , Dupont Christophe
Published: February 2024

Background:

The purpose of the study was to determine the accuracy of the labelled13 carbon urea breath test for the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori in children and to simplify the 13carbon urea breath test in identifying the most discriminating sampling time.

Methods:

H. pylori was searched for in 100 children aged 10.5 ± 4.5 years by histology, bacteriological counts, and culture on antral biopsies together with serology and 13carbon urea breath test. Breath samples were obtained before ingestion (T0) of 75 mg urea‐13C and every 10 minutes after until T60. 13CO2 excess ratio was measured by isotope ratio mass spectrometry, and values expressed as delta per mil over baseline enrichment (δ 13CO2). The arithmetic mean(Mδ 13CO2) of T20 to T60 values was calculated and the test considered positive with Mδ 13CO2 higher than Mδ 13CO2 + 3 SD as determined in noninfected children.

Results:

Mδ 13CO2 of noninfected children as assessed by culture was 1.4 ± 0.6 per mil, determining a positive cut‐off value of 3.44 per mil. Mδ 13CO2 was correlated in 11 children with biopsy bacteriological counts. Both culture and 13carbon urea breath test were positive in 38 of 100 children, without any discordance. Plotting13 carbon urea breath test results at each sampling time versus Mδ13 CO2 showed weaker correlations at T20, T30, T50, and T60, than at T40. The two‐sample method at T0 and T30, T40, T50, had high sensitivity and specificity. Single‐sample analysis obtained at T40 gave a comparable sensitivity and a slightly reduced specificity.

Conclusion:

13carbon urea breath test is sensitive and specific in children. Two samples collected at T0 and T40 provide the most discriminating procedure.
The Viral Association of Neonatal Cholestasis in Sweden: A Possible Link Between Cytomegalovirus Infection and Extrahepatic Biliary Atresia
Authors: Fischler Björn , Ehrnst Anneka , Forsgren Marianne , Örvell Claes , Nemeth Antal
Published: February 2024

Background:

In addition to earlier reports on the association between viral infections and intrahepatic neonatal cholestasis, in recent studies, investigators have suggested a similar link to extrahepatic biliary atresia.

Methods:

Fifty‐nine cholestatic infants (mean age 8 weeks) were investigated for signs of infection with a large spectrum of viruses. Twenty‐one infants had extrahepatic biliary atresia, 38 had intrahepatic cholestasis. The virologic methods included serologic investigation in 59 infants and 54 mothers, virus isolation from stools (49 infants), urine (58 infants) and liver biopsies (40 infants). Polymerase chain reaction was used to detect cytomegalovirus DNA in 25 of the liver biopsy specimens. Two control groups, one with 35 noncholestatic infants and one with 111 healthy, pregnant women were checked for serologic signs of cytomegalovirus.

Results:

Nineteen of 59 (32%) cholestatic infants, including 8 of 21 (38%) with extrahepatic biliary atresia, compared with 2 of 35 (6%) control infants had cytomegalovirus‐immunoglobulin (Ig) M detected in serum (p < 0.01). Fifty‐one of 54 (94%) tested mothers of cholestatic infants were sero‐positive for cytomegalovirus, compared with 83 of 111 (75%) control mothers (p < 0.01). Cytomegalovirus DNA in liver specimens was detected by polymerase chain reaction in 9 of 18 (50%) analyzed patients with biliary atresia and in specimens from 3 of 7 patients with intrahepatic cholestasis.

Conclusions:

Cytomegalovirus infection may play a role, not only in intrahepatic neonatal cholestasis, as was suggested earlier, but also in extrahepatic biliary atresia. The pathogenetic mechanism for this link remains to be established
Fat Distribution in Obese and Nonobese Children and Adolescents
Authors: Moreno Luis A. , Fleta Jesús , Mur Lilianne , Sarría Antonio , Bueno Manuel
Published: February 2024

Background:

It is not known whether fat deposition in obese children and adolescents occurs in the body's central or peripheral regions.

Methods:

A representative sample of children was drawn from the schools of Zaragoza, Spain. The population selected comprised 1728 children ranging in ages from 6 to 14.9 years. Of the original sample, 368 children (21.29%) were excluded because of chronic diseases or refusal to participate. The waist‐to‐hip circumference ratio and the triceps‐to‐subscapular skin‐fold thickness ratio were calculated and served as indexes of body fat distribution. The children were divided into tertiles according to standard deviation score of body mass index.

Results:

Both in boys and in girls, waist‐to‐hip circumference ratio was higher in tertile 3 than in the other two tertiles, and triceps‐to‐subscapular skinfold thickness ratio was lower in tertile 3 than in the other two tertiles. Waist‐to‐hip circumference ratio was higher and triceps‐to‐subscapular skinfold thickness ratio was lower in obese than in nonobese children and adolescents of both sexes.

Conclusions:

Increased adiposity may be accompanied by an increase of fat depot in the abdominal region. In obese children and adolescents, fat deposition seems to occur in the body's central regions.
Population Screening for Neonatal Liver Disease: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Keffler Sue , Kelly Deirdre A. , Powell Judith E. , Green Anne
Published: February 2024

Background:

Extra‐hepatic biliary atresia and several other causes of neonatal liver disease carry high mortality and morbidity rates, especially if not treated early in life. Despite professional recommendations, delayed referral of infants with prolonged jaundice continues to be a significant problem. One approach to reducing the age of referral and diagnosis is population screening to detect significant conjugated hyperbilirubinaemia as an index of liver dysfunction.

Methods:

To investigate this possibility, and to provide reference data on bilirubin and its conjugated and unconjugated fractions in a normal newborn population, 1157 neonates were anonymously tested (median age 7 days, range 4‐28 days) using surplus plasma from routinely collected neonatal screening specimens, using dry slide chemistry.

Results:

Of 2310 specimens received, 50% were suitable for analysis. The remainder were either haemolysed or insufficient (10% and 40% of the total, respectively). Total bilirubin concentrations ranged from 9 to 428µmol/l and conjugated bilirubin from 0 to 175 µmol/l, although the latter was rarely increased to more than 30 µmol/l (2.5th‐97.5th percentile ranges 15‐285 µmol/l and 0‐18 µmol/l, respectively). The range of the percentage of conjugated bilirubin was 0‐57% (2.5th‐97.5th percentile; range 0‐20%).

Conclusion:

An increased conjugated bilirubin, expressed as a concentration or as the percentage of the total bilirubin, could be used as a specific marker to screen for liver dysfunction in neonates. This approach has the potential to improve the age of referral and the prognosis of infants with neonatal liver disease.
Longitudinal analysis of sensory responsivity from infancy to school age in children at high and low familial likelihood for autism
Authors: Gunderson Jaclyn , Symons Frank , Kohli Nidhi , Grzadzinski Rebecca , Burrows Casey , Estes Annette , Dager Stephen , Piven Joseph , Wolff Jason ,   IBIS Network
Published: February 2024

Background

Empirical evidence regarding the development of sensory responsivity in young children at high likelihood to develop autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains relatively limited. It is unclear how sensory responsivity behaviors may change over time and impact later developmental outcomes. The goals of this study were to (a) characterize developmental trajectories of sensory responsivity across infancy (∼12 months), toddlerhood (∼24 months), and school age (6–11 years) in children at high and low familial likelihood for ASD; and (b) determine if sensory responsivity in infancy predicts adaptive and cognitive functioning at school age among children with ASD.

Methods

Generalized linear mixed effects models were used to examine scores from the Sensory Experiences Questionnaire in three groups of children including high‐likelihood children later diagnosed with ASD (HL‐ASD; n = 30), high‐likelihood children without ASD (HL‐Neg; n = 150), and low‐likelihood control children not meeting ASD diagnostic criteria (LL‐Neg; n = 94). Hierarchical linear regression was then used to examine the association between sensory responsivity scores in infancy and functional adaptive and cognitive outcomes at school age for children at high likelihood of ASD.

Results

Development of sensory responsivity from infancy to later childhood is best estimated by the effects of chronological age and Group for Sensory Seeking and Hypo responsivity and the additional effect of the interaction of Group and chronological age for Total and Hyper responsivity. Early elevated Hypo responsivity and Sensory Seeking scores are negatively associated with later adaptive behavior but not cognitive level.

Conclusion

Overall, higher degrees of Sensory Seeking and Hypo sensory responsivity are detectable in autistic children's behavioral repertoires by 12 months of age and associate with reduced adaptive functioning in middle childhood. These results point to the potential importance of early detection and treatment implications of early sensory behaviors.
Engineering students' epistemic affect and meta‐affect in solving ill‐defined problems
Authors: Swenson Jessica , Treadway Emma , Beranger Krista
Published: February 2024

Background

Real‐world engineering problems are ill‐defined and complex, and solving them may arouse negative epistemic affect (feelings experienced within problem‐solving). These feelings fall into sequenced patterns (affective pathways). Over time, these patterns can alter students' attitudes toward engineering. Meta‐affect (affect or cognition about affect) can shape or reframe affective pathways, changing a student's problem‐solving experience.

Purpose/Hypothesis(es)

This paper examines epistemic affect and meta‐affect in undergraduate students solving ill‐defined problems called open‐ended modeling problems (OEMPs), addressing two research questions: What epistemic affect and transitions between different affective states do students report? And, how does meta‐affect shape students' affective experiences?

Design/Method

We examined 11 retrospective interviews with nine students performed across two semesters in which students completed OEMPs. Using inductive and deductive coding with discourse analysis, we systematically searched for expressions conveying epistemic affect and for transitions in affect; we performed additional deductive coding of the transcripts for meta‐affect and synthesized these results to formulate narratives related to affect and meta‐affect.

Results

Together, the expressions, transitions, and meta‐affect suggest different types of student experiences. Depending on their meta‐affect, students either recounted experiences dominated by positive or negative affect, or else they experienced negative emotions as productive.

Conclusions

Ill‐defined complex problems elicit a wide range of positive and negative emotions and provide opportunities to practice affective regulation and productive meta‐affect. Viewing the OEMPs as authentic disciplinary experiences and/or the ability to view negative emotions as productive can enable overall positive experiences. Our results provide insight into how instructors can foster positive affective pathways through problem‐scaffolding or their interactions with students.
Water quality trends of streams in Puerto Rico: Evaluating 50 years of the Clean Water Act
Authors: Martínez‐Rodríguez Gustavo A. , Vázquez‐Cartagena Miguel A. , Perdomo‐García Cristian R. , Macchiavelli Raul E. , Sotomayor‐Ramírez David , Rosa Juan R.
Published: February 2024

Water quality regulations entail a substantial commitment of resources from governments and private entities. It is important to continually evaluate the effectiveness of these regulations to ensure they are having the intended impact. In this paper, we evaluated nutrient data as indicators of primary productivity and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations and pH as response variables to assess historical water quality trends from 55 stations of Puerto Rico. The stations were divided into impaired versus non‐impaired categories based on their historical total phosphorus (TP) mean concentration. Mean TP and total nitrogen (TN) concentrations were significantly higher in the impaired stations relative to the non‐impaired stations. In contrast, DO mean concentrations and mean pH values were significantly lower in the impaired stations. A generalized additive mixed model was used to demonstrate temporal trends. A significant decrease in TP and TN concentrations was observed with time at the impaired stations. This was accompanied by significant increases in DO concentrations and pH. The non‐impaired stations showed a marginal (statistically nonsignificant) decreasing trend with time. The large reductions in nutrient concentrations observed at the impaired stations seem to be related to the closure of several primary wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) across the island. The conversion of abandoned crop agricultural lands into secondary forest in recent decades has resulted in small but significant decreases in TN (not TP) in receiving streams. We conclude that the Clean Water Act has promoted improvements in water quality in Puerto Rico by advancing upgrades in sanitary infrastructure and the regulation of point sources of pollution.
Foliar application of nettle and Japanese knotweed extracts on Vitis vinifera: impact on phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and antioxidant activity during veraison and harvest of cv. Touriga Franca
Authors: Monteiro Eliana , Baltazar Miguel , Pereira Sandra , Correia Sofia , Ferreira Helena , Bragança Radek , Cortez Isabel , Castro Isaura , Gonçalves Berta
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Plant‐based extracts have been recently used as sustainable tools to improve biotic and abiotic stress tolerance and increase grape (Vitis vinifera L.) quality. However, knowledge about the effect of these extracts on secondary metabolism compounds, that are fundamental for grape and wine quality, is still scarce. In this study, a trial was installed in an experimental vineyard with the variety Touriga Franca located at University of Trás‐os‐Montes e Alto Douro, Baixo Corgo sub‐region of the Douro Demarcated Region, Portugal in two growing seasons: 2019 and 2020. The aim was to evaluate the effect of foliar application of nettle (Urtica spp.) extract (NE) and Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) extract (JKE) on grapevines leaves and berries bioactive compounds contents and antioxidant activity, at veraison and harvest.

RESULTS

The application of NE increased the total carotenoids in leaves and the total phenolics content and the antioxidant activity (ferric reducing antioxidant power, FRAP) in berries while JKE increased flavonoids content in leaves and the antioxidant activity (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl, DPPH) in berries.

CONCLUSION

These extracts seem to have a stimulatory effect on grapevine, enhancing bioactive compounds contents and antioxidant capacity and, consequently, the physiological performance of the plant and the quality of the berries. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Intravenous tranexamic acid reduces complications following surgical treatment of pathologic fractures of the lower extremity
Authors: Gettleman Brandon S. , Liu Kevin C. , Richardson Mary K. , Chen Matthew , Talehakimi Arad , Heckmann Nathanael D. , Menendez Lawrence , Christ Alexander B.
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the postoperative complications associated with administering intravenous (IV) tranexamic acid (TXA) in patients undergoing surgical fixation for neoplastic pathologic fractures of the lower extremities.

Methods

Patients ≥18 years old who underwent surgical intervention for neoplastic pathologic lower extremity fractures from 2015 to 2021 were identified using the Premier Healthcare Database. This cohort was divided by TXA receipt on the index surgery day. Patient demographics, hospital factors, patient comorbidities, and 90‐day complications were assessed and compared between the cohorts.

Results

From 2015 to 2021, 4497 patients met inclusion criteria (769 TXA[+] and 3728 TXA[−]). Following propensity score matching, patients who received TXA had a significantly shorter length of stay than those who did not (7.6 ± 7.3 days vs. 9.0 ± 15.2, p = 0.036). Between the two cohorts, there were no significant differences in comorbidities. Regarding differences in postoperative complications, TXA(+) patients had significantly decreased odds of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) (1.87% vs. 5.46%; odds ratio [OR]:0.33; 95% confidence interval: 0.17–0.62; p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Administration of IV TXA may be associated with a decreased risk of postoperative DVT without an increased risk of other complications. Orthopedic surgeons should consider the utilization of IV TXA in patients treated surgically for neoplastic pathologic fractures of the lower extremity.
Correlation between articular cartilage status on outcomes and survivorship following meniscal allograft transplantation: A systematic review
Authors: Gopinatth Varun , Warrier Alec A. , Jawanda Harkirat S. , Mameri Enzo S. , Khan Zeeshan A. , Allahabadi Sachin , Knapik Derrick M. , Cole Brian J. , Chahla Jorge
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To conduct a systematic review evaluating potential correlations between preoperative articular cartilage integrity on outcomes and survivorship in patients undergoing meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT).

Methods

A literature search was performed by querying SCOPUS, PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials from database inception through May 2023 according to the 2020 PRISMA statement. Inclusion criteria were limited to studies reporting on outcomes and survivorship following MAT based on preoperative cartilage status.

Results

Sixteen studies, consisting of 1723 patients (n = 1758 total menisci), were identified in six level III and 10 level IV evidence studies. There was high heterogeneity in cartilage grading scales, reporting of concomitant cartilage procedures, and indications for MAT based on osteoarthritis. Patients with lower limb malalignment were either excluded or corrected with an osteotomy. MAT failure rate was reported in nine studies, with four studies reporting a greater rate of failure in knees with higher degrees of cartilage damage. Eight studies reported on clinical outcomes based on cartilage grade, with two studies reporting significant differences in clinical outcomes based on cartilage grade. Of the five studies reporting management of full‐thickness chondral defects with cartilage surgery, three studies reported no significant difference in survivorship based on preoperative cartilage grade, while one study reported lower survivorship and one study reported unclear results. No studies found significant differences in survivorship and outcomes between medial and lateral MAT.

Conclusions

Conflicting results and high variability in reporting of concomitant cartilage repair and indications for MAT exist in studies evaluating the efficacy of MAT based on articular cartilage status. The degree of preoperative chondral damage did not have a strong relationship with clinical outcomes following MAT. Higher degrees of cartilage damage were associated with higher MAT failure rates, with possible improvement in survivorship when treated with an appropriate cartilage procedure.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Derotational distal femoral osteotomy corrects excessive femoral anteversion in patients with patellofemoral instability: A systematic review
Authors: Ribeiro Ricardo , Gomes Eluana , Ferreira Bárbara , Figueiredo Inês , Valente Cristina , Delgado Diego , Sánchez Mikel , Andrade Renato , Espregueira‐Mendes João
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Patellofemoral instability (PFI) is a common condition that can be caused from multiple factors, including lower limb rotational malalignments. Determining precise criteria for performing corrective torsional osteotomy can be a daunting task due to the lack of consensus on normal and excessive values and the limited evidence‐based data in the postoperative results. The purpose was to assess the clinical, functional and imaging outcomes following derotational distal femoral osteotomy (DDFO) in patients with PFI and/or anterior knee pain (AKP) associated with lower limb rotational malalignments.

Methods

Searches were conducted on PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science databases up to October 2023. Studies reporting outcomes after DDFO in patients with PFI and/or AKP were eligible for the systematic review. The primary outcome was imaging metrics, especially femoral anteversion. Secondary outcomes included the patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) (clinical and functional). Quantitative synthesis involved the use of weighted averages to calculate pre‐ to postoperative mean differences (MD) and compare them against the minimal clinically important difference (MCID).

Results

Ten studies (309 knees) were included with a mean follow‐up of 36.1 ± 11.7 months. Imaging outcomes consistently indicated the correction of femoral anteversion (MD = −19.4 degrees, 95% confidence interval: −20.1 to −18.7) following DDFO. PROMs showed significant improvements in most studies, exceeding the MCID. Patient satisfaction with the DDFO was high (93.3%).

Conclusions

The DDFO was an effective treatment option for correcting excessive femoral anteversion in patients with PFI associated with clinically relevant functional and clinical improvement and a high satisfaction rate.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, systematic review of level II–IV studies.
Pleiotropic beneficial cardiometabolic actions of a high‐purity eicosapentaenoic acid product in high cardiovascular risk individuals
Authors: Liakos Charalampos I. , Lanaras Leonidas , Bristianou Magdalini , Papadopoulos Dimitrios P.
Published: February 2024

The ideal approach to the secondary dyslipidemia goal of lowering triglycerides (TG) is not well established. The available ω‐3 fatty acid products differ from each other in composition and content. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of a highly purified eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) formulation on cardiometabolic biomarkers in high cardiovascular (CV) risk patients. The study included 226 subjects with high TG and ≥1 of the following CV risk factors: arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, ultrasound‐documented atheromatosis, peripheral artery disease, previous myocardial infarction, or ischemic stroke. Participants received 2 g EPA twice daily for 3 months, along with typical nutritional counseling. Cardiometabolic hematological parameters (TG, low‐density lipoprotein [LDL], high‐density lipoprotein [HDL], non‐HDL, total cholesterol [TChol], apolipoprotein A1 [Apo A1], apolipoprotein B [Apo B], glucose, glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c], and C‐reactive protein [CRP]) were measured at baseline and at 3 months. The mean patients' age was 61.1 ± 1.4 years and the mean baseline TG was 2.97 ± 0.15 mmol/L. Apart from Apo A1, all other biomarkers significantly (p < 0.05) improved at 3 months, regardless of sex (except Apo B) and age: TG 1.75 ± 0.09 versus 2.97 ± 0.15 mmol/L, LDL 2.46 ± 0.08 versus 3.05 ± 0.13 mmol/L, HDL 1.22 ± 0.03 versus 1.11 ± 0.03 mmol/L, non‐HDL 3.29 ± 0.10 versus 4.14 ± 0.16 mmol/L, TChol 4.55 ± 0.10 versus 5.15 ± 0.13 mmol/L, Apo A1 26.8 ± 9.3 versus 22.5 ± 8.6 μmol/L, Apo B 1.25 ± 0.23 versus 1.29 ± 0.23 μmol/L, glucose 5.66 ± 0.11 versus 5.99 ± 0.17 mmol/L, HbA1c 5.83 ± 0.1 versus 5.97 ± 0.1% and CRP 1.92 ± 0.2 versus 5.26 ± 2.8 mg/L. In conclusion, adding highly purified EPA product (4 g daily) on nutritional counseling leads to a significant TG reduction. In addition, this treatment appears to have pleiotropic beneficial cardiometabolic actions.
Light‐use efficiency for coral reef communities and benthic functional types
Authors: Hochberg Eric J. , Pisapia Chiara , Carpenter Robert C. , Hall Siarah
Published: February 2024

Coral reef metabolism is dominated by benthic photoautotrophic communities that comprise varying combinations of algae, coral, and sand. Rates of daily gross primary production (GPP) for these benthic functional types (BFTs) are remarkably consistent across biogeographical regions, supporting the idea that reefs exhibit modal metabolism. Most variability in reported rates likely arises from differences in light availability. In fact, GPP is a linear function of incident photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), the fraction of PAR absorbed (fAPAR) by photoautotrophic organisms or communities, and light‐use efficiency (ε), which parameterizes photosynthesizers' biochemical capacity for CO2 fixation: GPP = ε × fAPAR × PAR. On time scales of days to weeks, fAPAR and ε are far more stable than PAR. ε is a critical parameter, because it represents productive response integrated across all environmental conditions, other than light. If BFTs exhibit consistent GPP across wide geographic ranges, then their εs must also be consistent. The aim of this study was to estimate ε for algae, coral, and sand. Using data collected during NASA's CORAL mission in 2016–2017, ε was calculated for 32 mixed communities at Lizard Island, Australia (10); Kāne'ohe Bay, Hawai'i (8); Guam (6); and Palau (8). Nonnegative least squares was used to solve for ε of each BFT, producing values of 0.038, 0.060, and 0.016 C photon−1 for algae, coral, and sand, respectively. These values can be used in light‐driven models of reef metabolism. Further work is necessary to refine these estimates and, importantly, to explore how ε is affected by environmental conditions.
Green Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles Using Plant Extract as a Template
Authors: Sharma Basudha , Gupta Komal , Garg Vijay
Published: February 2024

Plant‐based nanoparticles (NPs) have found great interest among various scientist in the present era and used in various sector including medicine, agriculture, and food industry. The various chemical constituents of plants aid in the bioreduction of metal ions to a nanoscale. Among the various NPs synthesized, zinc oxide (ZnO) NPs hold a premier position. ZnO NPs have use in textile, cosmetic, diagnostics, optoelectronics, photocatalysis, diodes, and many other areas. NPs synthesized through green synthesis have a potentially greater role in treating clinical pathogens. Present investigations show a simple eco‐friendly method for the synthesis of ZnO NPs from the husk of sunflower seeds. Sunflower is an economically important crop, for the formation of edible oil. The husk is considered to be a waste, product in oil industry, however, the biomolecules present in sunflower husk can be used to produce ZnO NPs. Present investigations reveal formation of ZnO NPs and investigations of their structure through scanning electron microscope (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Their optical properties have been studied by ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer (UV–Vis) and fluorophotometer. ZnO NPs have also been investigated for their potential phytoremedial properties.
Study of Scaling Exponents of the Surface Evolved in 2 + 1 Dimension through Competitive Growth between Random Deposition and that with Surface Relaxation
Authors: Kumar Das Sudeep , Banerjee Diptonil , Roy Jitendra Nath
Published: February 2024

Rough surface develops through computer simulation by competition between growth mechanism random deposition (RD) with a probability of occurrence p and growth mechanism random deposition with surface relaxation (RDSR) with a probability of occurrence 1 − p, on L × L square plane for system size L to record the statistical average of time variation of surface roughness W(L, t) and average height H(t) for the model for specific values of L and p. Other than the pure RD model, the entire evolution may be divided into three regions separated by two specific cross‐over times tx and tsat. The value of interface width at saturation Wsat depends on both L and p. The first growth exponent β1 increases exponentially with an increase in p and does not depend on L. The values of the second growth exponent β2, roughness exponent α, dynamic exponent z(  = α/β2 ), and α + z are 0.0234 ± 0.0008, 0.0506 ± 0.0065, 2.1577 ± 0.0073, and 2.2083 ± 0.0138 respectively and they show no dependence on L and p values. Value of the first cross‐over time tx increases exponentially with an increase in p and does not depend on L. Value of the second cross‐over time tsat increases with an increase in both p and L values. The average growth velocity is unity for the model and is independent of both L and p. For the model, the growth velocity is unity and the fractional porosity is zero. The scaling exponents show some deviation from the relevant universality classes and depend on competitive growth probability for this model. No finite‐size effect is present in the model.
Image‐Feature Based Deep Learning Model for Plant Leaf Disease Detection
Authors: Rani Lekha , Sarangi Pradeepta Kumar , Sahoo Ashok Kumar
Published: February 2024

Currently, everyone is facing significant difficulties with food scarcity. There may be several causes for this, but food loss is a well‐known issue. Specifically, crop losses bring on by plant and leaf diseases during farming operations. Plant disease is typically identified visually or through laboratory testing, which delays detection and reduces crop yields by the time it is finished. The wide use of smartphones along with recent advancements in computer vision has made it viable to diagnose any ailment by applying machine learning techniques. Smartphone‐assisted disease diagnosis is now a reality. In this study, a multi‐Support Vector Machine (SVM) model is used to detect four different diseases as well as healthy conditions of plant leaves. Using 13 feature vectors for each input, a total of 2400 leaves representing four distinct classes (four varieties) have been used to train and test the model. The experimental results give an average accuracy of 91.25% for diseased leaves detection and 99% accuracy for healthy leaves detection.
Thermally Stimulated Luminescence in ZnSe:Ag and ZnSe:(Ag, Gd) Phosphors
Authors: Mishra Pragati , Mishra Ajai Kumar , Oljira Asebe , Pandey Janardan Prasad
Published: February 2024

With a view to understanding the luminescence mechanism in ZnSe, a systematic study of thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) of UV ray (3650 Å) irradiated ZnSe:Ag and ZnSe:(Ag, Gd) phosphors has been undertaken. TSL glow curves of these phosphors are recorded in the temperature range 110–340 K. The TSL parameters like trap depth, frequency factor, order of kinetics, and capture cross‐section of the glow peaks are evaluated employing Cutie's method, various heating method, and peak shape method.
DFT and Molecular Docking Studies of Two Heterocyclic Chalcone Derivatives
Authors: Shukla Seema , Srivastava Anubha , Tandon Poonam , Singh Rajendra B.
Published: February 2024

The newly synthesized heterocyclic chalcone derivatives 3‐(5‐methyl furan‐2‐yl)‐1‐phenyl prop‐2‐en‐1‐one (MFPP) and 1‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐3‐(5‐methylfuran‐2‐yl) prop‐2‐en‐1‐one (CPMFP) are recently being recognized for their cytotoxicity and anti‐plant pathogenic fungi activities. The quantum chemical calculations for the above‐mentioned compounds have been performed using B3LYP/6‐311++G (d,p) level of theory to get perceptive information about the molecules. After verifying the drug‐likeness of the title compounds, chemical reactivity has been analyzed through frontier molecular orbital analysis. The quantitative and qualitative description of activity at various sites has been investigated through conceptual DFT approach and molecular electrostatic potential surface analyses, respectively. In‐silico bioactivity studies of these compounds with the main protease (6LU7) present in SARS‐CoV‐2 causing COVID‐19, human breast cancer cell line (6VJ3), plant pathogenic fungi R. Solani (4G9N), and G. Zeae (2L2F) have exposed a reasonable binding affinity and inhibition constant with all these targets.
Evaluation of Properties of Concrete Without Cement Produced Using Fly Ash‐Based Geopolymer
Authors: Disale Anil , Nayak Chittaranjan , Suryawanshi Nagesh , Jadhav Nitin , Jagdale Umesh , Thakare Sunil , Pandey Shri Prakash , Sharma Prakhakar , Saxena Amit , Kate Gunwant
Published: February 2024

The use of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) in the construction industry is inevitable. The huge production of OPC and its use in infrastructural development pose an environmental impact. Greenhouse gas emitted increases the global temperature and it is an alarming sign to everybody on the planet. Concrete is the most consuming material which is produced by using OPC and it is proven that OPC contributes a lot to CO2 emission. Hence in this study attempt is made to produce concrete by using environment‐friendly material like fly ash along with alkaline activators, which is termed Geo polymer concrete. The by‐product fly ash is widely available worldwide. It is a by‐product of thermal power plants. The use of fly ash in concrete produces less expensive and more cost‐effective concrete than concrete made up using OPC. Due to its high silicate and alumina content, fly ash reacts with an alkaline solution to create an aluminosilicate gel that binds the aggregate and results in high‐quality concrete. Fly ash is finer than cement, it occupies the pores of cement after hydration. This would result in denser concrete which gives higher strength. In comparison to ordinary concrete, fly ash‐based geopolymer concrete offers better resistance to aggressive environments and high temperatures. In the present study, an alkaline activator of molarity 8 is used to prepare geopolymer concrete. The test specimens are cast and cured for 28 days. Test results indicate that an alkaline liquid fly‐ash ratio (0.4) produces higher mechanical properties. Hence, geopolymer concrete produced in this study is found to be cost‐effective and environment friendly.
Phase and Order Behavior of Charged Asymmetric Diblock‐Copolymer Melts in Bulk
Authors: Moirangthem Premjit M. , Shagolsem Lenin S.
Published: February 2024

The phase and order behavior of charged asymmetric diblock‐copolymer melts is studied by using coarse‐grained molecular dynamics simulation. One of the blocks is made charged and other one is kept neutral, and the study systematically explores how the charged diblock‐coploymer responses as the charge fraction of the charged block is varied from 10% to 50%. When charge fraction increases, the study finds ordered transitions from interconnected cylinder‐like structures to lamellae, then to gyroid structures. It is also found that domain size of the obtained equilibrium morphology decreases slightly with the increase in charge fraction of the charged block.
Accumulation and Toxicity of Nanoplastics in Photosynthetic‐Species
Authors: Nagar Varad , Mavry Badal , Aseri Vinay , Singh Apoorva , Awasthi Kumud Kant , Awasthi Garima , Sankhla Mahipal Singh
Published: February 2024

This plastic waste degrades into nanoparticles, which are referred to as nanoplastics (NPs) pollutants, due to faulty reuse and recycling processes. These micro and nano plastic pollutants have the ability to absorb and interact with common pollutants and have a high surface area to volume ratio, which causes serious effects on the environment, especially plants. The size of pollutants is so small that they can cross the biological barriers and affect the cellular and molecular levels. Exposure to nanoplastics in photosynthetic species affects the growth and photosynthesis mechanism of the plants. Nanoplastics also affect humans through intake of the exposed plant materials. These pollutants can be plastic pellets, personal care products, marine coatings, synthetic textiles, etc. Plastic pollutants may enter the human body mainly through contaminated food and water. This review incorporates the toxicity of such pollutant and how their remediation is being done. The focus is also on the advancement of detection and remediation techniques.
Optimization of Graphene Layers Grown on Pt/Ti/SiO2 by Hot Filament Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Matos Angela Luis , Limbu Tej B. , Castillo Ivan , Sultan Muhammad Shehzad , Tripathi Balram , Katiyar Ram S. , Weiner Brad R. , Morell Gerardo
Published: February 2024

Large area single and bilayer graphene are grown on Pt/Ti/SiO2 substrates by hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) with and without the assistance of Cu foil. The quality and number of graphene layers deposited on the substrate are assessed by Raman Spectroscopy. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is used for assessing the surface topography of the graphene films grown on the Pt/Ti/SiO2 substrates. The microstructure and elemental analyses are performed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). The results show that bilayer graphene growth is facilitated by a copper foil placed nearby Pt/Ti/SiO2 substrate and by a high filament temperature in the HFCVD reactor. Monolayer graphene grows only when no copper foil is placed near the Pt/Ti/SiO2 substrate at a low filament temperature. The approach paves a novel pathway towards the layer‐controlled growth of graphene on Pt/Ti/SiO2 substrates by HFCVD for frontier applications.
Investigation of Excess Thermo‐Acoustic Behavior of Binary Liquid Mixture with Various Temperatures Using Ultrasonic Technique
Authors: Paulraj Padmavathi , Thangam Gandhi Jeeva Rani , Rexceline Antony Muthu Lucas , Lancy Sreedharan Irudaya Sahaya , Pandey Krishna Kumar , Jawaharlal Poongodi
Published: February 2024

Ultrasonic methods have been very fruitful in studying the physical properties of binary liquid combinations. In this present study, the thermoacoustic behavior of benzyl propionate with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is observed using ultrasound, density, and viscosity at different temperatures between 308 and 328 K with a phase of 10 °C. Benzyl propionate is a sweet‐smelling liquid that is used in the botanical and fruit fragrance industries, as well as in the flavoring of organic products. DMSO is a dipolar aprotic, naturally soluble compound used for slow drug synthesis, device synthesis, and drug delivery to the body. Estimated values such as adiabatic compressibility, intermolecular free length, internal pressure, and free volume are determined from arbitrary ultrasonic velocity, density, and viscosity data. The same excess parameters of adiabatic compressibility, intermolecular free length, internal pressure, and free volume support finding the nature of the reaction. The sort of interactions has been accounted for utilizing these qualities. In the present work, benzyl propionate with dimethyl sulfoxide has been characterized by using ultrasonic waves and since this wave is a well‐known tool for NDT, so the mixture is properly characterized. These thermoacoustic parameters with different concentrations of DMSO at different temperatures have been used to study the complex formation and binding through intermolecular forces.
Fouling Mitigation by Surface‐Patterned Polymeric Membranes in Water Treatment: A Review of Recent Advancements in Fabrication Techniques
Authors: Chauhan Devandar , Kumar Nagar Prashant , Pandey Kamakshi , Pandey Harsh
Published: February 2024

The world is constantly challenged regarding managing environmental and ecological contamination due to human and industrial activities. This is because of the constant threat posed by pollution. Nowadays, membrane‐based technology is a growing field, making practically all the separation of foulant from wastewater possible. The membrane fouling resulting from the interaction between the foulant and the membrane surface presents a challenge for the technology in maintaining performance over extended periods of operation. As a result, there is a rising interest in research focusing mainly on creating patterned membrane surfaces that reduce fouling and effectively enhance the surface area. This article comprehensively overviews the most recent and cutting‐edge techniques that can be applied to modify and construct high‐performance patterned membranes suitable for ultrafiltration, microfiltration, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis (UF, MF, NF, and RO) water purification processes. In this study, recent developments in membrane material are dissected, focusing on methods for improving surface chemistry, structure, and hydrodynamics, as well as the consequences of these characteristics on filtering performance.
Perspectives on Tribological Properties of Spray Formed Al–Pb Alloys
Authors: Singh Prabh Simranjit , Mittal Rashmi
Published: February 2024

This article addresses the tribological characteristics and the influence of mechanical work on the porosity of spray formed Al–Si–Pb alloys. Al‐alloys are extensively utilized in industry due to their self‐lubricant qualities, particularly in the bearing company. In the case of immiscible alloys, the spray approach is the most convenient way to adopt since it allows for single‐step fabrication. The spray process has a high cooling rate, which affects the microstructure of alloys and results in equiaxed grain morphology. Spray deposition and several factors affecting to it are discussed here. This study examines the effect of secondary processes such as cold rolling, hot rolling, extrusion, and so on on porosity, hardness, tensile strength, and tribological behavior. A comprehensive knowledge of the principles of spray techniques and their respective influence on tribological properties are discussed in this perspective by comparing the available literatures, and a future scope for better development is emphasized.
Efficient Plastic Waste Recycling Using Polymer
Authors: Nain Vidushi , Shyam Hari Shankar , Gupta Disha , Singh Satendar
Published: February 2024

This study explores the possible uses of polymers to facilitate the more efficient recycling of plastic waste. Recycling plastics has been singled out as one way to mitigate the damaging effects of plastic trash on the environment. However, traditional recycling methods can only go so far, therefore innovative approaches are needed. This research investigates how a variety of polymers may be able to improve recycling operations. The study simulates the recycling procedure and employs experimental analysis to compare the performance of various polymers. Results show that by selecting the right polymers, recycling plastic trash can be made much more efficient, cutting down on both waste and energy consumption. The results have important ramifications for the plastic waste recycling sector and point the way towards fruitful future study in this area.
Luminescence in Zinc Selenide Doped with Sn and (Sn, Dy) Phosphors
Authors: Mishra Ajai K. , Mishra Pragati , Pandey Janardan Prasad
Published: February 2024

Zinc selenide doped with Sn and (Sn, Dy) phosphors has been prepared by firing the samples in an atmosphere of nitrogen gas. The voltage and frequency dependence of electrolyte brightness has been studied. Voltage dependence of electroluminescence (EL) brightness reveals an acceleration collision mechanism in the Schottky barrier at the metal–semiconductor interfaces. EL and photoluminescence (PL) spectra and thermoluminescence (TL) glow curves of these phosphors have also been recorded to understand the nature and mechanism involved in the luminescence process. The trapping parameters are calculated for the glow curves of these phosphors.
Ion Conducting Polyethylene Oxide‐Based Polymer Electrolyte Dopped with Ionic Liquid‐Trifluoromethanesulfonic Chloride
Authors: Jahangir Ayesha , Singh Pramod K. , Singh Ram Chandra , Punetha Vinay Deep , Rawat Suneyana
Published: February 2024

In last few decades, polymer electrolyte is the most promising candidate for the fabrication of electrochemical devices. In current work, the influence of adding the room‐temperature ionic liquid (trifluoromethanesulfonic chloride – CClF3O2S) in polyethylene oxide (PEO): ammonium iodide (NH4I) polymer electrolyte has been studied. The IL‐doped polymer electrolyte films are synthesized by solution casting method with varying stoichiometric ratios. Several experimental techniques including optical polarizing microscope, impedance spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Linear sweep voltammetry, Ionic transference number thermal analysis, and electrical conductivity measurements at room temperature have been studied in detail. The complex material's maximum conductivity has been determined to be 3.3 × 10−5 S cm−1 at room temperature. The POM images show the increase in amorphous region which further confirm the improvement in ionic conductivity. Ionic transference number 0.96 shows the system is purely ionic in nature. The ESW of the IL doped polymer electrolyte is also sawed to be 3.32 V which is suitable for the fabrication of electrochemical devices.
Factors Influencing Triage to Rehabilitation in Functional Movement Disorder
Authors: Gilmour Gabriela S. , Langer Laura K. , Bhatt Haseel , MacGillivray Lindsey , Lidstone Sarah C.
Published: February 2024

Background

Treatment of functional movement disorder (FMD) should be individualized, yet factors determining rehabilitation engagement have not been evaluated. Subspecialty FMD clinics are uniquely poised to explore factors influencing treatment suitability and triage.

Objectives

To describe our approach and explore factors associated with triage to FMD rehabilitation.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of 158 consecutive patients with FMD seen for integrated assessment by movement disorders neurology and psychiatry, with the purpose of triage to rehabilitation. Demographic and clinical variables were compared between patients triaged to therapy versus no therapy, and logistic regression was used to explore factors predictive of triage outcome. Change in primary outcome scores were analyzed.

Results

Sixty‐six patients (42%) were triaged to FMD therapy from July 2019 to December 2021. Patients triaged to therapy were more likely to have a constant movement disorder, gait disorder and/or tremor, hyperarousal, readiness for change, and people pleasing traits. Patients triaged to no therapy demonstrated persistent diagnostic disagreement, an inability to appreciate motor symptom inconsistency, low self‐agency, a propensity to dissociate, and cluster B traits. 90% of patients triaged to rehabilitation had improved outcomes.

Conclusions

The ability to “opt‐in” to FMD rehabilitation relies on different factors than those relevant to establishing a diagnosis. Unlike many other neurological disorders, a triage and treatment planning step is recommended to identify those likely to meaningfully engage at that time. Holistic assessment through a transdisciplinary lens, and working collaboratively with the patient is essential to prioritize symptoms, determine engagement, and identify treatment targets.