bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding satellite‐derived groundwater dynamics and its association with hydrological processes over India during excess and deficit monsoon years
Authors: Shaikh Bushra Y. , Parekh Anant , Gnanaseelan C.
Published: August 2024

The Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite provides valuable data to monitor groundwater variation. This study investigates groundwater dynamics in India during deficit and excess monsoon years. It finds possible interactions by exploring how groundwater levels respond to meteorological and hydrological conditions. Groundwater anomalies (GWA) are estimated using Terrestrial Water Storage Anomalies (TWSA) from GRACE and hydrological parameters from the Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS). The statistical analysis reveals that the standard deviation is higher for hydrological parameters in summer (June to September), whereas it is higher in fall (October to November) for GWA in many parts of India. The modulation in hydrological parameters subsequently impacts GWA during the following seasons. The study reports increased groundwater across many parts of India during fall. However, groundwater decline is closely linked to unsaturated soil moisture from fall to winter (December to February). Groundwater storage is at its lowest levels during the following spring (March to May) over India. Four deficit and three excess summer monsoons occurred from 2002 to 2022. Composite analysis of GWA reveals that there is replenishment (depletion) of groundwater during the following fall and winter in excess (deficit). The analysis based on extreme deficit monsoon years (2002, 2009) and excess monsoon year (2019) reveals that during the deficit years, groundwater recharge is less, and excess monsoon year it is more; and is vice versa for GWA. The study reports decline in GWA during the summer 2019, which is attributed to the hydrological conditions of the preceding year and modulation of the hydrological processes. As climate variability and water scarcity become increasingly pressing issues, understanding the relationships between hydrological factors and groundwater dynamics is essential for ensuring sustainable water use and resilience to extremely varying climate conditions.
To be visible yet remain unseen: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of embodied drug use and recovery of Filipinas
Authors: Yusay Camille Therese C.
Published: August 2024

The experience of drug use is a gendered and culturally embodied phenomenon. This qualitative study aims to unpack the lived experiences of 16 urban, poor, Filipina mothers who used drugs. In‐depth interviews were conducted. Data was analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Their experiences were divided into drug initiation and recovery. Key findings show embodied experiences of initiation through starting use, losing control, and navigating through public and private spaces of drug use. Their experiences of drug recovery revolved around decoupling relations, avoiding drug use spaces, and healing their strained home. Theoretically, this study contributes to enriching the analytical underpinnings of IPA through a gendered and embodied perspective. In terms of practical implications, findings point to the need for a gender‐conscious approach in intervention design and implementation in the community setting considering the life space of Filipinas who use drugs.
Potential of extracellular vesicles in the pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapy for parasitic diseases
Authors: Pinheiro Ana Acacia Sá , Torrecilhas Ana Claudia , Souza Bruno Solano de Freitas , Cruz Fernanda Ferreira , Guedes Herbert Leonel de Matos , Ramos Tadeu Diniz , Lopes‐Pacheco Miqueias , Caruso‐Neves Celso , Rocco Patricia R. M.
Published: August 2024

Parasitic diseases have a significant impact on human and animal health, representing a major hazard to the public and causing economic and health damage worldwide. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have long been recognized as diagnostic and therapeutic tools but are now also known to be implicated in the natural history of parasitic diseases and host immune response modulation. Studies have shown that EVs play a role in parasitic disease development by interacting with parasites and communicating with other types of cells. This review highlights the most recent research on EVs and their role in several aspects of parasite‐host interactions in five key parasitic diseases: Chagas disease, malaria, toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis and helminthiases. We also discuss the potential use of EVs as diagnostic tools or treatment options for these infectious diseases.
Can you know before you go? Information about disability accommodations on US hospital websites
Authors: Kannam Allison , Haywood Carol , Morris Megan A. , Huang Lynn , Singer Tracey , Bajaj Gurasees , Muhammad Aijalon , Lagu Tara
Published: August 2024

Background

People with disability (PWD) face challenges accessing healthcare. Websites are a public‐facing resource that can help PWD determine if a hospital can accommodate their needs, yet few studies have described whether hospital websites contain adequate accommodation information.

Objective

To characterize the extent to which information about disability accommodations is available on US hospital websites.

Methods

We manually reviewed hospital websites using a structured extraction form. We used the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' Hospital General Information Data set to identify a stratified random sample of 600 nonspecialty hospitals in the United States. We excluded hospitals that shared a website with a previously reviewed hospital for a final sample of 445. We recorded (1) content about specific disability accommodations (in 11 predetermined categories); (2) descriptions of hospital policy mentioning disability; and (3) the point of contact to obtain more information about accommodations.

Results

About two‐thirds (65.6%) of sampled hospitals were acute care hospitals (vs. 34.4% critical access); 53.5% had 26–299 beds. Overall, 73.7% websites had information about accommodations; of these, 36.3% had information solely within hospital policies. Of the 47.0% websites with accommodation information beyond hospital policies, the mean number of accommodations listed (excluding policy statements) was 2.37 (of 11 possible). Hospitals with 300+ beds had higher odds of listing any nonpolicy accommodations than those with 1–26 beds (odds ratio = 2.768, p = .02). Less than half (40.5%) hospitals listed a contact person.

Conclusions

Information about disability accommodations is sparse on hospital websites. Comprehensive and actionable communication about accommodations is needed to better protect PWD's rights to accessible healthcare.
Does cytomegalovirus infection and antiviral therapy affect prognosis of biliary atresia? A real‐world retrospective cohort study
Authors: Dong Jie , Xie Ting , Li Bo , Xiao Yong , Li Ming , Xu Guang , Zou Chanjuan , Xia Renpeng , Li Bixiang , Zhou Chonggao
Published: August 2024

To explore the impacts of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and antiviral treatment (AVT) on native liver survival (NLS) in biliary atresia (BA) infants. This retrospective cohort study included infants diagnosed as BA between January 2015 and December 2021 at Hunan Children's Hospital. CMV infection was defined by DNA polymerase chain reaction alone (DNA data set) and combination of DNA and immunoglobulin M (CMV data set). In the DNA data set of 330 patients, 234 patients (70.9%) survived with their native liver in 2 years, with 113 (73.9%) in the DNA− cohort, 70 (65.4%) in the DNA+ and AVT− cohort and 51 (72.9%) in the DNA+ and AVT+ cohort, without significant differences by log‐rank tests. In patients administrated between 2015 and March 2019, there were 206 evaluable patients in the DNA data set, with rates of 5‐year NLS of 68.3% in the DNA− cohort, similar to that in the DNA+ and AVT+ cohort (62.2%, p = 0.546), but significantly higher than that in the DNA+ and AVT− cohort (51.4%, p = 0.031). Similar trends were also observed in the CMV data set, although statistically insignificant. CMV infection before or on the day of HPE can reduce the rate of 5‐year NLS and AVT was recommended for CMV‐infected BA infants.
Effect of temperature dependence of 2DEG on device characteristics of field‐plated recessed‐gate III‐nitride/β‐Ga2O3 nano‐HEMT
Authors: Rao G. Purnachandra , Lenka Trupti Ranjan , Nguyen Hieu Pham Trung , Boukortt Nour El. I. , Crupi Giovanni
Published: August 2024

In this article, a field‐plated and recessed gate III‐Nitride Nano‐HEMT developed on β‐Ga2O3 substrate is proposed and investigated for various performance characteristics over different temperatures. The 2DEG (Two Dimensional Electron Gas) dependence on temperature is critical for commercial utilization of GaN‐based HEMTs (high electron mobility transistors). Here, the temperature influence on 2DEG for proposed HEMT over the range of 300–400 K has been investigated. The results demonstrate that the 2DEG density of proposed HEMT reduces as temperature increases. It has been observed that phonon scattering results in a sharp decline in the mobility of 2DEG as temperature increases, which causes the electric field to decrease. It also exhibited that the cut‐off frequency decreased over the temperature changes from 300 to 400 K due to diminution in electron mobility. This research aims to contribute an extensive overview of proposed III‐Nitride Nano‐HEMT designed on a lattice‐matched substrate of β‐Ga2O3 to foster future research on the latest developments in this field.
Assessing the future probable maximum precipitation in Utah under global warming
Authors: Gu Hongping , Meyer Jonathan , Wang Shih‐Yu Simon , Gillies Robert , Zhang Wei , Taylor Everett
Published: August 2024

Probable maximum precipitation (PMP) has been an important criterion for designing hydrological infrastructure and it is likely to change with respect to global warming. To assess the potential risk that hydrological infrastructure in the U.S. state of Utah may encounter under the least mitigated emission scenario of Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 (RCP8.5), this study identified historical (1950–2005) and future (2006–2100) PMP estimates to quantify the range and degree of change for extreme precipitation. The results show that an averaged RCP8.5 simulated 19.2% (3.43°C) increase in dewpoint temperature will result in a 39% (88.39 mm) increase in 24‐h 100‐mi2 (259 km2) PMP values. It is also found that the rapidly growing metropolitan areas of the state would experience a greater PMP increase (106.43 mm) than that in the state's National Parks and forested areas (93.98 mm). This discovery indicates a vulnerability that could affect both hydrological and metropolitan infrastructure. The planning of the state's infrastructure needs to consider the changing PMP under global warming.
Indian summer monsoon rainfall response to two distinct evolutions of La Niña events
Authors: Sharma Tanu , Ratna Satyaban B. , Pai Damodara S. , Bandgar Arti , Rajeevan Madhavan , Mohapatra Mrutyunjay , Sreejith Onpathamkuniyil P. , Hosalikar Krishnanand S.
Published: August 2024

This study examines the asymmetry in the Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR) response over India and its four homogeneous regions to two distinct types of temporal evolution in La Niña. We have shown this uneven response by analysing the large‐scale dynamics over tropical Indo‐Pacific region for the period 1951–2022. We have identified two types of La Niña events during monsoon season (June–September) based on whether they evolved from El Niño or La Niña from preceding boreal winter season (December–February). India receives significantly more (less) rainfall during La Niña years, when it was preceded by El Niño (La Niña) in the preceding winter. We further observed the spatial diversity of rainfall over India with a northeast–southwest dipole pattern. When La Niña years were preceded by El Niño, positive surface pressure anomaly over west‐north Pacific, low‐level westerlies and moisture transport favoured the rainfall over south peninsula and west‐central India. Whereas moisture divergence associated with anomalous lower‐tropospheric anticyclone over west‐north Pacific suppressed the rainfall over Indo‐Gangetic plains. However, when La Niña years were preceded by La Niña in winter, the absence of westerlies and weak moisture transport subdued the rainfall over south peninsula and west‐central India. At the same time, moisture convergence and a greater number of monsoon depressions favoured rainfall over north‐west India. This study also looked at how well eight Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) models predicted ISMR and SST for two types of La Niña with April initial conditions during the period 1993–2016. Models were able to capture the spatial pattern of SST anomalies over Indo‐Pacific Ocean, but all models could not capture the spatial pattern of ISMR. However, in terms of intensity, six out of eight models could predict more (less) ISMR when it was preceded by El Niño (La Niña), coinciding with the observed anomaly.
The out‐of‐phase pattern of summer precipitation over northern China and the possible mechanisms
Authors: Du Yuchun , Chen Huopo , Hong Haixu
Published: August 2024

This study explored the interannual characteristics of the out‐of‐phase pattern of summer precipitation over northern China during the past years, as well as the possible underlying mechanisms. The out‐of‐phase pattern is characterized by the positive precipitation anomaly in Northwest China (NWC) and the negative anomaly in North China (NC). Our analyses indicate that the variation of Asian westerly jet (AWJ) is found evidently associated with this out‐of‐phase pattern of summer precipitation. The meridional displacement of AWJ induces opposite trends in water vapour transport and circulation anomalies between NWC and NC, leading to the out‐of‐phase pattern. Further analyses suggest that the anomalies of Arctic sea ice concentration (SIC), North Atlantic and Northwest Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) can impact the variation of AWJ by triggering the Eurasian (EU), polar‐Eurasia (POL) and Pacific‐Japan (PJ) teleconnection patterns, respectively, which in turn modulate the formation of this pattern. The precipitation in NWC is primarily affected by the North Atlantic and Northwest Pacific SST anomalies, whereas the precipitation in NC is notably influenced by both SST anomalies and the Arctic SIC anomaly. However, the role of SST anomalies on precipitation in NWC and NC exhibits an evident contrast, leading to the out‐of‐phase pattern of summer precipitation.
Metal–organic framework‐enabled biomass conversion technologies for microalgae bio‐refinery in the food industry
Authors: Sadana Sujatha , Rajasimman Manivasagan , Sanjay Senthil Kumar , Kishore Viswanathan , Senthil Rathi Balasubramani , Rezania Shahabaldin , Kamyab Hesam , Vasseghian Yasser
Published: August 2024

Biomass is a valuable renewable energy adapted as an alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Apart from fuels, biomass is synthesized into highly valuable products that are used in various forms including biofuels, biochemical, bioproducts, packing material, and find practice in pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals industries. Particularly, microalgae a third‐generation feedstock known for its rich carbon content possesses protein lipids and carbohydrates produces a variety of green products such as bioethanol, biohydrogen, biodiesel, and biomethane, and also fixes carbon emission to a certain amount in the atmosphere. However, microalgae conversion in the presence of a catalyst such as a metal–organic framework (MOF) yields high‐quality valuable products. A MOF is a porous crystalline material where the structure and pore size can be controlled making it suitable for catalytic reactions and appropriate conversion paths. This review briefly explains the prevailing status of microalgae as a sustainable biomass and features its components for microalgae biorefinery into valuable products and its application in the food industry. MOF properties, characteristics and various MOF‐based conversion technologies for biomass conversion with its application are elaborated. In addition, usage of value products produced from microalgae biorefinery in the food industry and its importance is elucidated. In addition, the challenges in integrating biorefinery processes with food industry operations and their solutions are also presented. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Changes in phosphorus‐related performance attributes of dryland winter wheat cultivars released between the 1940s and 2010s in Shaanxi Province, China
Authors: He Zhan , Lian Huida , Qin Cheng , Yan Jiakun , Li Hongbing , Zhang Suiqi
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Water and nutrients are two main determinants of wheat yield, which are vital for maintaining high crop yields. In the present study, the effects of water and phosphate fertilization on wheat yield, photosynthetic parameters, water productivity and phosphate use efficiency were investigated. Five dryland wheat cultivars from the 1940s to the 2010s that are widely cultivated in Shaanxi Province, China, were used. Experiments were conducted from 2019 to 2022 using two irrigation levels (normal rainfall and no precipitation after the reviving stage) and two phosphorus application levels (0 and 100 kg ha−1).

RESULTS

Compared with old cultivars (‘Mazha’), the grain yield of modern cultivars (‘Changhan 58’) was 89.24% higher and was closely correlated with chlorophyll index, leaf area index, photosynthetic rate and tillers. With the replacement of cultivars, the phosphorus content, water potential and phosphatase activity of wheat leaves increased. Considering water–phosphorus interactions, the water use efficiency and phosphorus use efficiency of wheat showed a significant positive correlation.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that modern wheat cultivars are more responsive to phosphorus. Further analysis revealed that modern varieties have evolved two phosphorus absorption strategies in response to phosphorus deficiency – namely, the formation of a phosphorus supply source, which may result in larger numbers of green organs; and an increase in phosphorus sinks, which tended to activation and transport of plant phosphorus. Our results may thus contribute to water conservation, increased yields and the development of strategies for efficient phosphorus fertilization. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
HLA‐DR genotypes in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome in Taiwan
Authors: Yen Chang‐Yi , Wang Pin‐Yi , Chen Kuan‐Yu , Tseng Chia‐Chun , Wu Cheng‐Chin , Ou Tsan‐Teng , Yen Jeng‐Hsien
Published: August 2024

Different human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genotypes have been known to be associated with the risk of development of Sjögren's syndrome in different populations, but this association has never been reported in Taiwan. We enrolled 1044 subjects (673 patients, 371 controls) and tested their HLA‐DR genotypes. We found an increased risk of Sjögren's syndrome in patients carrying HLA‐DR8. DR1 and DR14 were associated with increased risk of eye involvement (uveitis, scleritis or optic neuritis), while DR15 was associated with increased risk of interstitial lung disease. DR8 was associated with increased risk of formation of multiple antibodies: anti‐Ro, rheumatoid factor and antinuclear antibodies (ANA) reaching titer 1:80 or above. DR9 was associated with decreased risk of formation of anti‐La antibodies and increased risk of formation of antithyroglobulin antibodies. DR10 was associated with risk of formation of anticyclic citrullinated peptide (anti‐CCP) antibodies, and DR11 was associated with increased risk of formation of anti‐La antibodies. Oral ulcer was found to be negatively associated with anti‐Ro antibodies and with anti‐ENA antibodies. Skin lesions were associated with ANA antibody titer elevation to 1:80 or above. Malignancies of any kind were associated with the presence of cryoglobulin. Females were more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age than males. There was no statistically significant relationship between HLA‐DR genotype and age at disease diagnosis. In patients with Sjögren's syndrome in Taiwan, the presence of HLA‐DR8 appeared to be a risk factor. In addition, we found several associations between HLA‐DR genotype, clinical presentation, and autoantibody status among them.
Different intraoperative joint laxity patterns do not impact clinical outcomes in robotic‐assisted medial unicompartmental knee replacement with 1‐to‐1 surface reconstruction
Authors: Innocenti Matteo , Leggieri Filippo , Theus‐Steinman Carlo , Moya‐Angeler Joaquin , Christen Bernhard , Calliess Tilman
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Robotic‐assisted technology in medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (mUKA) allows for customized adjustments of joint laxity through virtual preoperative component positioning before bone preparation. Nevertheless, the optimal balancing curve has yet to be delineated. This study sought to investigate if varying intraoperative knee laxity patterns had any impact on postoperative patient outcomes.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on prospectively collected data from 326 fixed‐bearing RAUKA procedures performed between 2018 and 2022 with a minimum 2‐year follow‐up. Patients were categorized into three cohorts based on intraoperative joint laxity patterns (millimetres of joint gap during valgus stress) imparted at 20°, 60°, 90° and 120° of knee flexion: cohort 1 < +0.5 mm (tight); cohort 2 between 0.6 and 1.9 mm (physiologic); cohort 3 > 2 mm (loose). Wilcoxon and Kruskal–Wallis tests were conducted to assess patient‐reported outcome measure (PROM) improvements and preoperative and postoperative differences across the cohorts. A Spearman's test evaluated the correlation between knee balance at all degrees of flexion and preoperative and postoperative HKA.

Results

No differences in preoperative and postoperative PROMs were identified across the cohorts (p > 0.05). All three cohorts with different joint laxity patterns showed a significant improvement in the postoperative PROMS (p < 0.05). The preoperative or postoperative limb alignment did not significantly affect clinical outcomes relative to different laxity patterns.

Conclusion

No differences were found in the outcomes across different joint laxity patterns in robotic‐assisted medial UKA using fixed‐bearing mUKAs. There was no evident advantage for maintaining a closer to physiologic laxity compared to tighter or looser balancing.

Level of Evidence

Level III, therapeutic study.
Grasses and forbs respond differently to inoculation with Stellera chamaejasme soil bota
Authors: Meng Huizhen , Guo Lizhu , Shen Feiyu , Li Jiahuan , Scullion John , He Wei
Published: August 2024

Stellera chamaejasme L. is a native, widely distributed weed in steppe perennial grassland in China and countries nearby. Its spread has been attributed in part to the effect of its associated soil biota on the growth of other plants. To investigate this hypothesis, soil associated with S. chamaejasme or not was taken from grasslands in the Inner Mongolia plateau. S. chamaejasme and six co‐occurring plant species, including grasses (Leymus chinensis and Agropyron cristatum) and forbs (Allium mongolicum, Sanguisorba officinalis, Plantago asiatica, and Saussurea runcinata), were then grown with such soil or its autoclaved inocula in pot trials comparing their shoot and root growth. Fungal diversity was compared between S. chamaejasme and non‐S. chamaejasme field soils to investigate differences in functional groups associated with plant growth. The growth of S. chamaejasme, and that of the forbs tested, increased with a “live” relative to the autoclaved inoculum whilst that of the two grasses decreased. Root‐shoot ratio significantly increased for S. chamaejasme grown with its own soil biota. S. chamaejasme and non‐S. chamaejasme soil fungal communities differed, with the former having decreased relative abundance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and increased abundance of plant pathogens, which might be factors promoting its spread and facilitating grassland degradation. The results improve our understanding of the role of soil biota in S. chamaejasme succession.
Gut‐derived appetite hormones do not explain energy intake differences in humans following low‐carbohydrate versus low‐fat diets
Authors: Hengist Aaron , Sciarrillo Christina M. , Guo Juen , Walter Mary , Hall Kevin D.
Published: August 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to explore how dietary macronutrient composition influences postprandial appetite hormone responses and subsequent energy intake.

Methods

A total of 20 adults (mean [SEM], age 30 [1] years, BMI 27.8 [1.3] kg/m2, n = 8 with normal weight, n = 6 with overweight, n = 6 with obesity) consumed a low‐fat (LF) diet (10% fat, 75% carbohydrate) and a low‐carbohydrate (LC) diet (10% carbohydrate, 75% fat) for 2 weeks each in an inpatient randomized crossover design. At the end of each diet, participants consumed isocaloric macronutrient‐representative breakfast test meals, and 6‐h postprandial responses were measured. Ad libitum energy intake was measured for the rest of the day.

Results

The LC meal resulted in greater mean postprandial plasma active glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1; LC: 6.44 [0.78] pg/mL, LF: 2.46 [0.26] pg/mL; p < 0.0001), total glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP; LC: 578 [60] pg/mL, LF: 319 [37] pg/mL; p = 0.0004), and peptide YY (PYY; LC: 65.6 [5.6] pg/mL, LF: 50.7 [3.8] pg/mL; p = 0.02), whereas total ghrelin (LC: 184 [25] pg/mL, LF: 261 [47] pg/mL; p = 0.0009), active ghrelin (LC: 91 [9] pg/mL, LF: 232 [28] pg/mL; p < 0.0001), and leptin (LC: 26.9 [6.5] ng/mL, LF: 35.2 [7.5] ng/mL; p = 0.01) were lower compared with LF. Participants ate more during LC at lunch (244 [85] kcal; p = 0.01) and dinner (193 [86] kcal; p = 0.04), increasing total subsequent energy intake for the day compared with LF (551 [103] kcal; p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

In the short term, endogenous gut‐derived appetite hormones do not necessarily determine ad libitum energy intake.

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Anion exchange membrane with enhanced alkaline stability through radiation grafting of ETFE for solid polymer electrolytes
Authors: Govind Bharath , Rattan Sunita , Ameduri Bruno , Singhal Prachi , Tyagi Ankit , Cochran Eric W.
Published: August 2024

Solid polymer electrolyte membranes are considered as the nub of many electrochemical devices. Given the climate crisis and related concerns, the evolution of new membrane materials to support the sustainable systems is inevitable. Building on recent advances with the radiation technique and polymer chemistry, herein, anion exchange membranes (AEMs), ETFE‐g‐1VIm/4VP, were fabricated through graft copolymerization of vinyl heterocyclic monomer binary mixture, such as 1‐vinylimidazole (1‐VIm) and 4‐vinylpyridine (4‐VP) onto ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), a main polymer backbone without aryl ether bonds. The grafting reaction was achieved at 60°C and then followed by quaternization as a subsequent step. The effects of various reaction grafting conditions were investigated. The ETFE‐g‐1VIm/4VP AEM were characterized w.r.t the morphological and structural features. The dense surface of the grafted membranes is proved by field emission‐scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) images, which also show that the vinyl entities are clearly distributed in the prepolymer, which may lead to a continuous ion transport channel. AEMs processed from the highest graft yield showed good hydroxide conductivity at 90°C, reaching 16.9 mS/cm due to the presence of more transport sites. The same membrane has a relatively good alkaline stability, which is studied through weight percentage method and FT‐IR. Hence, we assume that the introduction of multi‐cationic moieties, pyridinium and imidazolium, contributes to the performance of anion exchange membranes and makes a perfect balance, especially the hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity. These data highlight the potential of the copolymer as an anion exchange membrane for wide spectra of electrochemical applications.

Highlights

AEMs based on ETFE‐g‐1VIm/4VP are developed via radiation grafting.

The membrane exhibits remarkable alkaline stability.

FT‐IR, SEM, and weight percentage methods were used to prove the alkaline stability.

The membrane has the potential to be used for different electrochemical applications.
Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in pediatrics: Etiologies and outcomes
Authors: Cohen Sarah P. , Eisner Mariah , Fussner Lynn A. , Krivchenia Katelyn
Published: August 2024

Background

Many conditions, including autoimmune disease and idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis (IPH), can cause diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH). Little is known about the epidemiology and outcomes in children.

Objectives

This retrospective cohort study sought to describe the etiologies and outcomes of DAH in pediatric patients at a tertiary care center.

Methods

This study involved review of patient records with diagnostic codes or bronchoscopy reports suggestive of pulmonary hemorrhage at a large children's hospital over 11 years (2010−2020). Patients were included if they met criteria for DAH, defined as bilateral pulmonary infiltrates and at least one of the following: (1) hemoptysis, (2) blood visible on bronchoscopic exam without apparent airway source, or (3) DAH noted on biopsy or autopsy. Infants less than 10 days corrected gestational age were excluded.

Results

Seventy‐one children with DAH were included in the analysis. Cardiovascular disease was the most common etiology. Bleeding diathesis was common, but all patients had other causes of DAH. Patients with IPH were younger than those with autoimmune disease (p < .001). Most (77%) patients required mechanical ventilation, though this was less common among patients with autoimmune disease. Overall mortality was high (37%) but varied based on underlying etiology; mortality was higher in patients with cardiovascular disease (65%) while no deaths were seen in patients with autoimmune disease or IPH (p = .002). Survivors of DAH who performed pulmonary function tests had normal lung function.

Conclusions

DAH frequently causes respiratory failure in children. In our cohort, mortality was highest in patients with cardiovascular disease.
Virtual reality gaming for rehabilitation of patients with urinary incontinence: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lialy Hagar E. , Abdalrahman Hamid Ali , Elsebaie Mai , Abdrabo Mohamed Fouad , Emara Mohamed , Mosad Yara , Elsaid Mohamed
Published: August 2024

Background

Urinary Incontinence (UI) is a global health issue that mainly affects the female population worldwide. Different approaches have been sought for the management of UI including Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) using Virtual Reality (VR) gaming. We conducted this study to evaluate the effectiveness of VR gaming for rehabilitation of pelvic floor muscles (PFM) and improving urinary symptoms in patients with UI.

Method

We've included studies that contain any type of VR in all geographic locations and settings with no restrictions on the date of publication, age, or gender. Our exclusion criteria include reviews, case series, case reports, unextractable data, unavailable full text, abstract only articles, and studies don't show the effects of VR as a treatment for UI. A pre‐specified search term was used and modified according to the requirements of each of the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, Google scholar, and ScienceDirect. For risk of bias assessment, two assessment tools have been used: ROB 2.0 for RCTs and NIH for single arm studies.

Results

Of 915 papers identified from 6 databases, 341 papers were assigned for screening after removing duplicates, 11 papers were eligible for full text screening, and 4 papers were finally included. The qualitative analysis of the results identifies six outcomes grouped into three primary categories: PFM, urinary symptoms, and quality of life. Only urinary loss outcome was eligible for meta‐analysis. The net effect between Game therapy + PFMT and PFMT reached MD = −5.49, 95% CI [−12.36:1.38] (heterogeneity; I2 = 95%, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Our research underscores the potential of VR gaming as a valuable adjunctive therapy for pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation in patients with UI. However, further studies are needed to explore its long‐term effectiveness, optimal therapy parameters, and cost‐effectiveness.

Registration

Our protocol has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022384500).
Expression and immune infiltration studies of IL‐33‐ST2‐NF‐κB signaling pathway in prostate cancer
Authors: Wang Han , He Kang , Liu Yuqi , Yang Lijuan , Wang Zhenjiang , Wang Helin , Bai Chengxia , Liu Jian , Zhao Lijing , Ma Dongrui , Liu Yanbo
Published: August 2024

Background

To analyze the expression of interleukin‐33 (IL‐33), growth‐stimulated expression gene 2 (ST2), nuclear factor‐kappaB (NF‐κB) and immune cell infiltration in prostate cancer, this study aims to provide an experimental basis for the clinical prevention and treatment of prostate cancer.

Methods

The expression of IL‐33 in PCa tissues was analyzed using TCGA, TIMER and HPA databases. Using the UALCAN database, the systematic exploration of the relationship between IL‐33 and various clinicopathological parameters was conducted. The correlation between IL‐33 expression and immune cell infiltration was investigated using TIMER, CIBERSORT and GEPIA databases. To verify these analyses, 22 cases of normal prostate (NP), 76 cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and 100 cases of PCa were recruited. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to examine the expression of IL‐33, ST2, NF‐κB, and the infiltration of immune cells. Correlations between these factors were then determined.

Results

The expression of IL‐33, ST2 and NF‐κB was significantly lower in PCa tissues compared with NP (p < 0.05). IL‐33 was not associated with age in PCa but showed associations with race, molecular characteristics, lymph node metastatic status, TP53 mutation and tumor grade. Furthermore, IL‐33 was associated with immune cell infiltration. Positive correlations were observed between IL‐33 and ST2 expressions, as well as between IL‐33 and CD68+ macrophages in BPH and PCa.

Conclusions

IL‐33, ST2 and NF‐κB are lowly expressed in PCa tissues, their expression decreases with the increasing malignancy of cancer. IL‐33, ST2 and NF‐κB are factors associated with PCa immune infiltration. IL‐33 has an inhibitory effect on prostate cancer through the IL‐33/ST2/NF‐κB signalling pathway.
Improving quality control procedures for the measurement of total daily energy expenditure using the two‐point doubly labeled water method
Authors: Breit Matthew J. , Duncan Nassia M. , Dahle Jared H. , Catenacci Victoria A. , Creasy Seth A. , Berman Elena S. , Speakman John R. , Melanson Edward L.
Published: August 2024

Rationale

The precision of the doubly labeled water (DLW) method is determined by the precision and accuracy of the isotopic measurements. Quality control (QC) procedures to mitigate sample variability require additional measurements if sample duplicates differ more than a factor of instrument precision. We explored the effect of widening QC ranges on total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) determined using the two‐point sampling method.

Methods

We screened DLW data from 121 individuals for instances where samples were analyzed more than twice using our existing QC criteria (±2.0 per mil [δ] for 2H and ±0.5 δ for 18O). We then applied wider QC ranges for accepting duplicate measures and recalculated TDEE.

Results

Widening the 2H QC range to ±10.0 δ in samples collected on the first day (most enriched) and to ±5.0 δ in samples collected on the final day (less enriched) produced almost identical mean TDEE compared to the originally calculated TDEE (2684 ± 508 vs. 2687 ± 512 kcal/day, p = 0.40). There was a strong correlation with the originally calculated TDEE (r2 = 0.97, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Expanding the 2H QC range to ±10.0 δ for samples collected on the first day and ±5.0 δ for samples collected on the final day provides similar mean TDEE results. These findings may help DLW labs optimize QC criteria and reduce analytical costs.
A multiscale feature fusion‐guided lightweight semantic segmentation network
Authors: Ye Xin , Pan Junchen , Chen Jichen , Zhang Jingbo
Published: August 2024

Semantic segmentation, a task of assigning class labels to each pixel in an image, has found applications in various real‐world scenarios, including autonomous driving and scene understanding. However, its widespread use is hindered by the high computational burden. In this paper, we propose an efficient semantic segmentation method based on Feature Cascade Fusion Network (FCFNet) to address this challenge. FCFNet utilizes a dual‐path framework comprising the Spatial Information Path (SIP) and the Context Information Path (CIP). SIP is a shallow structure that captures the local dependencies of each pixel to improve the accuracy of detailed segmentation. CIP is the main branch with a deeper structure that captures sufficient contextual information from input features. Moreover, we design an Efficient Receptive Field Module (ERFM) to enlarge the receptive field in the SIP. Meanwhile, Attention Shuffled Refinement Module is used to refine feature maps from different stages. Finally, we present an Attention‐Guided Fusion Module to fuse the low‐ and high‐level feature maps effectively. Experimental results show that our proposed FCFNet achieves 70.7% mean intersection over union (mIoU) on the Cityscapes data set and 68.1% mIoU on the CamVid data set, respectively, with inference speeds of 110 and 100 frames per second (FPS), respectively. Additionally, we evaluated FCFNet on the Nvidia Jetson Xavier embedded device, which demonstrated competitive performance while significantly reducing power consumption.
Recent Advances of Carbon Capture in Metal–Organic Frameworks: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Li Wen‐Liang , Shuai Qi , Yu Jiamei
Published: August 2024

The excessive emission of greenhouse gases, which leads to global warming and alarms the world, has triggered a global campaign for carbon neutrality. Carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) technology has aroused wide research interest as a versatile emission mitigation technology. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), as a new class of high‐performance adsorbents, hold great potential for CO2 capture from large point sources and ambient air due to their ultra‐high specific surface area as well as pore structure. In recent years, MOFs have made great progress in the field of CO2 capture and separation, and have published a number of important results, which have greatly promoted the development of MOF materials for practical carbon capture applications. This review summarizes the most recent advanced research on MOF materials for carbon capture in various application scenarios over the past six years. The strategies for enhancing CO2 selective adsorption and separation of MOFs are described in detail, along with the development of MOF‐based composites. Moreover, this review also systematically summarizes the highly concerned issues of MOF materials in practical applications of carbon capture. Finally, future research on CO2 capture by MOF materials is prospected.
Instant Upcycling of Microplastics into Graphene and Its Environmental Application
Authors: Zafar Muhammad Adeel , Jacob Mohan V.
Published: August 2024

Microplastic pollution poses a growing threat to ecosystems globally, necessitating sustainable solutions. This study explores upcycling microplastics into graphene as a promising approach Traditional methods like pyrolysis and catalytic carbonization are slow and compromise graphene quality. Flash Joule heating is fast but energy‐intensive and hard to control. In contrast, atmospheric pressure microwave plasma (APMP) synthesis, the proposed technique, offers a one‐step, environmentally friendly alternative. APMP operates at relatively lower temperatures, reducing energy consumption and providing precise control over process parameters. This study demonstrates that polyethylene microplastics from waste dropper bottles can be efficiently transformed into graphene using APMP synthesis. Raman spectroscopy of synthesized material reveals a spectrum characteristic of graphene‐based materials, with indications of defects and the presence of oxygen content. X‐ray diffraction illustrates the characteristic graphitic lattice, with a slightly larger interlayer spacing attributed to intercalated functional groups. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms sp2 hybridized carbon as the major component. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy provides insights into the multilayered structure and variations in interlayer spacing. The as‐synthesized pristine graphene exhibits nearly ten times greater efficiency in adsorbing perfluorooctanoic acid compared to the oxidized form of graphene, although it is slightly less effective than graphene‐based nanocomposites.
Highly Flexible and Reversible Stimuli‐Responsive Photonic Crystal Film in Anti‐Counterfeit, Detector, and Coating
Authors: Jia Shengzhe , Yang Bingbing , Du Jing , Zhang Jiayin , Xie Yujiang , Yu Liuyang , Zhang Yuan , Tao Tiantian , Tang Weiwei , Gong Junbo
Published: August 2024

Various fascinating optical characteristics in organisms encourage scientists to develop biomimetic synthesis strategies and mimic their unique microstructure. Inspired by the Chameleon's skin with tunable color and superior flexibility, this work designs the evaporated‐induced self‐assembly technique to synthesize the chiral photonic crystal film. Ultrasonic‐intensified and additive‐assisted techniques synergistically optimize the film properties, on the aspects of optic and mechanic. The film shows considerable rigidity and superior flexibility, which can undergo multiple mechanical deformations. Without destroying the chiral nematic structure, the ultimate strain approaches 50%, which exceeds most cellulose‐derived film materials. It also integrates excellent optical performance. The film color can cover the total visible region by tuning the photonic bandgap and has angle‐dependent properties. It can make the response to humidity and solvents, and chromaticity variation reflects the degree of stimulation. Importantly, this structural‐dependent color change is reversible. Lastly, the photonic crystal materials with excellent mechanics and unique optics have been applied in the security. The anti‐counterfeiting material design contains photonic crystal ink, repeatable writing paper, information‐hiding film, and color‐changing labels, with the features of environmentally friendly, economical, non‐destructive, and convenient for authentication.
Effects of Cryogenic Rolling on the Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Low‐Density Fe‐28Mn‐8Al‐1C Steel
Authors: Xiong Yi , Luan Ze‐wei , Zha Xiao‐qin , Li Yong , Du Xiu‐ju , Ren Feng‐zhang , Wang Shu‐bo , Liu Xiao‐jun
Published: August 2024

This study undertakes a systematic investigation into the influence of cryogenic rolling (CR) deformation on the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of low‐density Fe‐28Mn‐8Al‐1C steel. The results reveal that the microstructure undergoes a series of transformations, from equiaxed austenite grains to elongated grains with strain bands, twinning, dislocation entanglements, and dislocation cells. The texture evolves from brass to copper with increasing deformation. Besides, the mechanical properties exhibit a direct correlation with the extent of deformation, as evidenced by the notable increase in ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, and microhardness from 882 to 1861, 505 to 1791 MPa, and 284 to 578 HV, respectively. However, elongation decreases from 64% to 6.6%, indicative of the strength‐ductility trade‐off. The aforementioned findings provide insight into the potential for manipulating the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of low‐density steels utilizing CR.
Tailoring Niox/Perovskite Interface via a Multifunctional Self‐Assembled Molecule for High‐Performance Blue Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Ji Huifeng , Ren Zhenwei , Chen Ran , Luo Chengzhao , Zhou Xin , Zheng Zhiyong , Shi Hengfei , Zhang Yuze , Chen Hua , Peng Huanxi , Chen Yu
Published: August 2024

Nickel oxide (NiOx) serves as one of the most promising hole transport materials for perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs). However, only moderate PeLED performances have been reported on the pristine NiOx layer due to insufficient hole injection, interfacial exciton quenching, and poor perovskite quality. Herein, a multifunctional molecule of 3‐mercapto‐1‐propanesulfonate (MPS) is demonstrated to successfully tailor the NiOx–perovskite heterogenous interface by addressing the above issues. In detail, the large binding energy between mercapto sulfur and nickel induces preferential self‐assembly of the mercapto group on the NiOx surface, which simultaneously enlarges the NiOx work function by the formation of interfacial dipole and suppresses the trap‐assisted exciton quenching by the passivation of the oxygen vacancies. Meanwhile, the self‐assembled MPS on NiOx also favors high‐quality perovskite films with good morphology, high crystallinity, and reduced defects for efficient carrier radiative recombination. As a result, blue PeLEDs show a remarkable efficiency of 10.4%, representing one of the highest efficiencies for NiOx‐based blue PeLEDs, as well as a very low turn‐on voltage of 2.8 V. Consequently, this work contributes to an efficient approach to tailor the NiOx–perovskite interface for highly efficient blue PeLEDs.
Connecting Compassion: Empathy's Role in STEM and Literacy Integration
Authors: Cheek Leah R. , Carter Vinson , Daugherty Michael K. , Goering Christian Z.
Published: August 2024

Empathy, an unsung, yet critical element of learning, can be strategically interlaced with literacy instruction and engineering design to create a rich and authentic learning experience for students. Integrated STEM education rests on the promise of engaging students and providing deep understandings through the intentional practice of delivering science and math content through the application of technology and engineering skills. Using children's literature to activate empathy and design thinking can help students become better problem‐solvers, critical thinkers, and caring members of society. Empathy facilitates a deeper connection to the human experience, ensuring that solutions not only meet the design requirements, but also address the emotions and concerns of the end user. Building upon story grammar, students can understand the needs of characters in narratives and create empathetic solutions to the challenges that characters in a book may face, ultimately helping students develop confidence and embrace their future possibilities.