bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal play a key role in extreme precipitation during the snow season over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Weiguo , Li Hongyi , Xie Zeming , Hao Xiaohua , Wang Jian
Published: March 2024

Water vapour is a critical component of the hydrological cycle and plays a key role in climate systems and water resources on the Tibetan Plateau (TP). However, the effect of water vapour on extreme precipitation during the snow season over the TP, where snow cover is widespread, has not been determined. In this study, we investigated the water vapour contributions from extreme precipitation events during the snow season from 1980 to 2017 in four subregions of the TP using the flexible particle dispersion method. We divided the TP into four regions: the northeastern TP (NETP), northwestern TP (NWTP), southeastern TP (SETP) and southwestern TP (SWTP). The water vapour contributions from extreme precipitation among the four subregions were clearly different. The most important water vapour area that contributed the most water vapour to extreme precipitation over the NETP was from local contributions; nevertheless, Central Asia contributed the most water vapour to the NWTP. Water vapour from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal (ASBB) dominantly controlled extreme precipitation in the SETP at a ratio of 45% and in the SWTP at a ratio of 72.9%. The water vapour contribution from the ASBB was significantly correlated with the extreme precipitation occurring in the TP subregions during the snow season in comparison to that of non‐extreme precipitation. These results could improve the understanding of water vapour cycle differences across the interior TP; additionally, our study provides a theoretical reference for the relationship between the snow distribution and water vapour sources in the TP.
Evaluation of the Prognosis of Patients With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome at the Emergency Department Based on the Lung Ultrasound Score
Authors: Altuğ Ertuğrul , Toksul İbrahim Halil , Çakir Adem , Şener Kemal , Korkut Semih , Kapci Mücahit , Güven Ramazan
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a respiratory disease characterized by a high rate of mortality. Determining the prognosis of this disease is therefore important. Lung ultrasonography has found increased use, especially in the recent years. This study aimed to score patients diagnosed with ARDS at the emergency department using point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS)‐Lung and to investigate the prognosis of patients with ARDS using a scoring system.

Methods

This study was designed as a single‐center prospective study. The study was performed in patients admitted to the emergency department and were diagnosed with ARDS pursuant to the Berlin criteria for ARDS and who met the inclusion criteria. The patients underwent lung ultrasonography at the emergency department and were scored (A line: 0; B1 line: 1; B2 line: 2; and C line: 3 points) accordingly.

Results

The study included 100 patients with ARDS. The mortality rate was 52% in the patients in the study. The lung ultrasonography score in the mortality group (25.48 ± 3.64) was higher than that in the survivors (8.46 ± 3.61). For a cut‐off value of 17.5 for the lung ultrasonography score, the sensitivity and specificity with regard to mortality indicators were 92.8% and 90.9%, respectively (the area under the curve: 0.901; 95% confidence interval: 0.945–0.985: P < .001).

Conclusion

The findings suggested that scoring based on POCUS‐Lung at the time of initial presentation at the emergency department in patients diagnosed with ARDS according to the Berlin criteria could help determine the prognosis. As POCUS‐Lung proved to be an important imaging method in investigating the affected alveolar capacity, we recommend its possible use as a prognostic indicator.
When the recipe is more important than the ingredients: Unveiling the complexity of consumer use of voice assistants
Authors: Heirati Nima , Pitardi Valentina , Temerak Mohamed Sobhy
Published: March 2024

The widespread use of voice assistants (VAs) creates a pressing need to understand what drives consumers to use different VAs. Existing studies have commonly focused on the net effects of antecedents that explain why consumers adopt or continue using VAs, ignoring the complexity of consumer behavior and the combinatorial effects of multiple antecedents. Our study proposes that consumer intention to continue using VAs does not depend on a single characteristic of products or consumers but on specific configurations of such characteristics. By integrating human–technology interaction and media richness theories, we suggest that consumers with distinct psychometric profiles and learning styles may evaluate humanlike and technological attributes of VAs differently. Our study shows that the complex interconnectedness between different VA attributes and consumer characteristics can provide a holistic understanding of why some consumers continue or stop using VAs. The results advance the media richness literature by offering novel insights into multimodality in consumer–technology interactions by examining consumer evaluations of single and multimodal VAs (e.g., smart speakers vs. touchscreen smart speakers). Our study provides templates for managers to effectively design VAs aligned with their segmentation and targeting strategies.
Ligand‐gated ion channels as potential biomarkers for ADT‐mediated cognitive decline in prostate cancer patients
Authors: Verma Shiv , Singh Vaibhav , Nagampalli VijayKrishna , Ponsky Lee E. , Li Chiang‐Shan R. , Chao Herta , Gupta Sanjay
Published: March 2024

Men with prostate cancer are at increased risk of developing cognitive decline by the use of second‐generation androgen signaling inhibitors. To date, reliable and sensitive biomarkers that could distinguish men at high risk of cognitive dysfunction under androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) have not been characterized. We used high‐throughput transcriptional profiling utilizing human prostate cancer cell culture models mimicking ADT, biomarker selection using minimal common oncology data elements‐cytoscape, and bioinformatic analyses employing Advaita® iPathwayGuide and DisGeNET for identification of disease‐related gene associations. Validation analysis of genes was performed on brain neuronal and glial cells by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay. Our systematic analysis of androgen deprivation‐associated genes involved multiple biological processes, including neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction, axon guidance, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, and metabolic and cancer signaling pathways. Genes associated with neuroreceptor ligand interaction, including gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) A and B receptors and nuclear core proteins, were identified as top upstream regulators. Functional enrichment and protein–protein interaction network analysis highlighted the role of ligand‐gated ion channels (LGICs) and their receptors in cognitive dysfunction. Gene–disease association assigned forgetfulness, intellectual disability, visuospatial deficit, bipolar disorder, and other neurocognitive impairment with upregulation of type‐1 angiotensin II receptor, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, GABA type B receptor subunit 2 (GABBR2), GABRA3, GABRA5, GABRB1, glycine receptor beta, glutamate ionotropic receptor N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor (NMDA) type subunit 1, glutamate ionotropic receptor NMDA type subunit 2D, 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor 1D, interferon beta 1, and nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 1 as top differentially expressed genes. Validation studies of brain glial cells, neurons, and patients on ADT demonstrated the association of these genes with cognitive decline. Our findings highlight LGICs as potential biomarkers for ADT‐mediated cognitive decline. Further validation of these biomarkers may lead to future practical clinical use.
Enhancing healthy aging with small molecules: A mitochondrial perspective
Authors: Qin Xiujiao , Li Hongyuan , Zhao Huiying , Fang Le , Wang Xiaohui
Published: March 2024

The pursuit of enhanced health during aging has prompted the exploration of various strategies focused on reducing the decline associated with the aging process. A key area of this exploration is the management of mitochondrial dysfunction, a notable characteristic of aging. This review sheds light on the crucial role that small molecules play in augmenting healthy aging, particularly through influencing mitochondrial functions. Mitochondrial oxidative damage, a significant aspect of aging, can potentially be lessened through interventions such as coenzyme Q10, alpha‐lipoic acid, and a variety of antioxidants. Additionally, this review discusses approaches for enhancing mitochondrial proteostasis, emphasizing the importance of mitochondrial unfolded protein response inducers like doxycycline, and agents that affect mitophagy, such as urolithin A, spermidine, trehalose, and taurine, which are vital for sustaining protein quality control. Of equal importance are methods for modulating mitochondrial energy production, which involve nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide boosters, adenosine 5′‐monophosphate‐activated protein kinase activators, and compounds like metformin and mitochondria‐targeted tamoxifen that enhance metabolic function. Furthermore, the review delves into emerging strategies that encourage mitochondrial biogenesis. Together, these interventions present a promising avenue for addressing age‐related mitochondrial degradation, thereby setting the stage for the development of innovative treatment approaches to meet this extensive challenge.
Restoration of Intestinal Microbiota After Inulin Supplementation Halted: The Secondary Effect of Supplemented Inulin
Authors: An Ran , Zhou Xilong , Zhang Jing , Yang Yaqi , Lyu Chengang , Wang Dapeng
Published: March 2024

Scope

Consumption of inulin could affect the intestinal microbiota composition. Hereby, it is aimed to investigate the intestinal microbial community restoration process when the inulin supplementation is terminated (i.e., the secondary effect).

Methods and results

The current study investigates the response and restoration of intestinal microbiota to/after high (Inulin‐H) and low (Inulin‐L) dosage of inulin supplementation or sequential antibiotics and inulin (Anti‐Inulin‐L) supplementation, based on analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences in C57BL/6 mice. The number of significantly changed genera in response to inulin is highest in Anti‐Inulin‐L (n = 66) group, followed by Inulin‐H (n = 51) and Inulin‐L (n = 38) group. After inulin supplementation stops, microbiota of all studied groups tend to recover to their original states, with highest percentage of inulin‐responding microbes stay significantly different at Anti‐Inulin‐L (93.94%) group, followed by Inulin‐H (74.51%) and Inulin‐L (44.12%) groups. Of note, the relative abundance of some non‐inulin‐responding taxa significantly increases during restoration.

Conclusion

Sequential antibiotics and inulin supplementation induce greatest changes in the intestinal microbial composition, followed by high and low dosage of inulin. Additionally, the changes induce by supplemented inulin in the intestinal microbial community, provide a chance for some microbes to outcompete the other microbes during the spontaneous restoration.
What I see, what you say: How cross‐method variation sharpens characterization of irritability in early childhood
Authors: Parker Alyssa J. , Brock Peyton , Kryza‐Lacombe Maria , Briggs‐Gowan Margaret , Dougherty Lea R. , Wakschlag Lauren S. , Wiggins Jillian Lee
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Identification of clinically significant irritability in preschool age is important to implement effective interventions. However, varying informant and measurement methods display distinct patterns. These patterns are associated with concurrent and future mental health concerns. Patterns across multi‐informant methods in early‐childhood irritability may have clinical utility, identifying risk for impaired psychosocial functioning.

Methods

Using data from the Multidimensional Assessment of Preschoolers Study (N = 425), latent profile analysis identified irritability patterns through the parent‐reported Multidimensional Assessment Profile Scales–Temper Loss (MAPS‐TL), parent‐reported interviewer‐rated Preschool Age Psychiatric Assessment (PAPA), and observer‐rated Disruptive Behavior Diagnostic Observation Schedule (DB‐DOS). These profiles were characterized on protective factors, global functioning, and mental health syndromes, concurrently and at early school age and preadolescent follow‐up.

Results

Fit indices favored a five‐class model: Low All, High Observation with Examiner (high DB‐DOS Examiner Context), High All, High Parent Report (high MAPS‐TL/PAPA), and Very High Parent Report (very high MAPS‐TL/PAPA). Whereas Low All and High Observation with Examiner exhibited strong psychosocial functioning, remaining profiles showed impaired psychosocial functioning, with the Very High Parent Report group showing higher impairment at follow‐ups,ds = 0.37–1.25.

Conclusions

Multi‐informant measurements of irritability may have utility for clinical prediction, and future studies should test utility for diagnostic precision.
On the Polyak momentum variants of the greedy deterministic single and multiple row‐action methods
Authors: Wu Nian‐Ci , Zuo Qian , Wang Yatian
Published: March 2024

For solving a consistent system of linear equations, the classical row‐action method, such as Kaczmarz method, is a simple while really effective iteration solver. Based on the greedy index selection strategy and Polyak's heavy‐ball momentum acceleration technique, we propose two deterministic row‐action methods and establish the corresponding convergence theory. We show that our algorithm can linearly converge to a least‐squares solution with minimum Euclidean norm. Several numerical studies have been presented to corroborate our theoretical findings. Real‐world applications, such as data fitting in computer‐aided geometry design, are also presented for illustrative purposes.
Enhanced interfacial and tribological properties of fabric liner by constructing a MXene/HNTs/PAMAM hierarchical coating
Authors: Liu Meng , Zhang Zhaozhu , He Yaohui , Liao Chaoying , Yang Mingming , Chu Fanjie , Jiang Wei , Yuan Junya , Liu Weimin
Published: March 2024

A special “hard‐soft” MXene/Halloysite nanotube (HNTs)/ poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) structure was constructed to improve the interfacial and tribological performances of fabric liner (FL) materials. Thereinto, the MXene/HNTs coating were successfully grafted onto fabric surface by electrostatic self‐assembly strategy, and a novel PAMAM dendrimer polymer terminated by amino groups was prepared via condensation reaction. The mechanical and tribological performances of MXene/HNTs/PAMAM@FL as well as wear mechanism were systematically evaluated. Specifically, the incorporation of MXene/HNTs/PAMAM coating enhanced the bonding strength by 62.4%, and declined the wear rate by 27.7% in comparison with pure FL. The splendid performance was ascribed to the synergistic effect of “soft” toughening PAMAM polymer and “hard” lubricating MXene/HNTs hybrids. The introduction of MXene/HNTs hybrids could enhance mechanical interlocking and bearing capacity. Then PAMAM polymer ameliorated interfacial adhesion and compatibility with resin via forming chemical bonds, which further reducing stress concentration through increased crack deflections due to the steric hindrance.

Highlights

MXene/HNTs/PAMAM coating was prepared via electrostatic self‐assembly and condensation reaction.

Interfacial adhesion of fabric liner achieved effective promotion.

High‐quality tribofilm was constructed by the synergistic enhancement effect between MXene/HNTs particles and PAMAM polymer.

The tribo‐chemical reactions participate in improving the lubricity and durability of tribofilm.
Enhancement of mechanical and thermal properties of UV‐curable wood coatings by cellulose nanofibrils and carboxylated organo‐montmorillonite
Authors: Sun Yuhui , Long Ling , Li Baojun , Kong Dingfeng , Liang Changli , He Ming , Liu Ru
Published: March 2024

In this study, the impact of incorporating cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) and carboxylated organo‐montmorillonite (OMMT), separately or in combination, into a UV‐curable wood coating was evaluated for performance enhancement. This study investigated the influence of nanoparticle loading percentage on the mechanical properties and thermal behavior of the coating, as well as the surface properties of digitally printed decorative wood‐based panels. The results indicated that the addition of CNF or OMMT increased the viscosity of the polymer solutions. Although CNF randomly oriented within the matrices, OMMT adhered to the surface of the polymer matrix. Chemical crosslinking was observed between CNF/OMMT and the coating. The addition of CNF and OMMT improved the thermal stability of the neat UV curing coating. The tensile strength of nanocomposite films with a 6 wt% loading of CNF increased significantly from 7.63 MPa to 12.73 MPa compared to pure films. The reinforcing effect of CNF on the tensile performance was significantly better than that of OMMT. Adding CNF to the matte coating slightly improved the clarity of the printed decorative panels. When CNF and OMMT were added together in the coating, there was a synergistic enhancement in the low gloss and high pencil hardness of the panels.

Highlights

Both CNF and OMMT were chosen to achieve performance improvements

A simple filling method was adopted for preparation of reinforced coating

The nanocomposite films exhibited fine thermal and mechanical properties

The better integrated property was obtained from the C + CNF3 + OMMT0.8 sample

The physicochemical interaction of nanofiller with polymer molecule existed
Modeling the high‐cycle fatigue crack initiation in short fiber reinforced polymers with notches
Authors: Pietrogrande Riccardo , Carraro Paolo Andrea , Zappalorto Michele , De Monte Matthias , Quaresimin Marino
Published: March 2024

In this work, a new approach is proposed for predicting the life to crack initiation in Short Fiber Reinforced Polymers (SFRPs) under cyclic loadings in the presence of notches, cut‐outs and stress concentrations. A multiscale model is presented, encompassing two length scales for correlating the applied loads to the local stress fields in the matrix. These are used for defining an effective stress for predicting the life to crack initiation, accounting for the simultaneous influence of the notch geometry, the fiber content, orientation and distribution. The criterion was successfully validated on a large set of experimental results.

Highlights

A new model is proposed for predicting fatigue crack initiation in notched SFRPs

The model is based on a multiscale procedure

Prediction is based on local matrix stresses averaged in a structural volume

The model accounts for fiber orientation, distribution and notch geometry
Bullying prevention training for Chinese preservice teachers' efficacy and beliefs toward bullying
Authors: Zhu Qianyu , Wang Cixin
Published: March 2024

Bullying is prevalent in many schools worldwide. Providing bullying prevention training to preservice teachers can make a significant difference in preventing school bullying. There is a lack of training in bullying prevention for preservice teachers in China, and the effectiveness of such training for bullying prevention has not yet been established. The present study examined the effectiveness of bullying prevention training on antibullying self‐efficacy and incorrect beliefs about bullying among Chinese preservice teachers. A total of 139 preservice teachers (Mage = 20.76 years, SD = 0.80 years, ranging from 19 to 23 years; 90.6% women) were randomly assigned to the bullying prevention training (n = 73) or the control group (n = 66). Preservice teachers completed pre‐ and posttraining surveys. The participants in the treatment group completed a 5‐week bullying prevention training program (1.5 h per week). Measures of antibullying self‐efficacy and incorrect beliefs about bullying were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the bullying prevention training. Results indicated that the training increased preservice teachers' antibullying self‐efficacy but did not decrease their incorrect beliefs about bullying. Practical implications, limitations, and future directions of these findings are discussed.
Borderline personality disorder and stigma: Lived experience perspectives on helpful and hurtful language
Authors: van Schie Charlotte C. , Lewis Kate , Barr Karlen R. , Jewell Mahlie , Malcolmson Natalie , Townsend Michelle L. , Grenyer Brin F. S.
Published: March 2024

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a severe mental health disorder that is subject to significant stigmatisation. With language being a key reinforcer of stigma, this co‐produced study aims to explore the language use regarding BPD and its effect on those with BPD and carers. Recommendations to reduce stigmatisation are provided for both clinicians and researchers. Participants with BPD (consumer n = 33) and those supporting someone with BPD (carer n = 30) discussed their experience of hurtful and helpful language. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse written and verbal responses into core conflictual relationship themes (CCRT) reflecting how different words were heard and experienced. All consumers and carers in the study reported experiences with stigmatising language. Feelings of inadequacy and frustration were common amongst consumers, specifically when they perceived others as trivialising their needs or not seeing them as a unique individual. Carers often reported feelings of frustration when they perceived others as blaming them or not acknowledging their needs. Both consumers and carers reported helpful language as being connecting, validating and accepting. Unhelpful communication patterns have negative consequences for the person's self‐understanding (i.e., self‐stigma) and their relationships with others, including the therapeutic alliance. A consideration of these communication patterns may foster the use of reflective positive language that is compassionate and hopeful.
Efficient and accurate binding free energy calculation of Aβ9–40 protofilament propagation
Authors: Frost Christina V. , Schwierz Nadine , Zacharias Martin
Published: March 2024

Self‐assembled aggregation of peptides and proteins into regular amyloid fibrils is associated with several neurodegenerative diseases. In case of Alzheimer's disease proteolytic cleavage products of the amyloid precursor protein form pathological amyloid‐beta fibrils in a nucleation and propagation phase. The molecular details and thermodynamic driving forces of amyloid formation are not well understood, but are of high relevance for potential pharmacological interference. We used atomistic binding free energy simulations to calculate the free energy of protofilament propagation by an additional Aβ9–40 peptide binding to the protofilament tip. It requires sampling of relevant conformational transitions which is challenging since the monomeric Aβ9–40 peptide is intrinsically disordered. However, the convergence of umbrella simulations can be enhanced by applying additional restraining potentials on the axial, orientational and conformational degrees of freedom. The improved convergence leads to a much closer agreement with experimental binding free energy data compared to unrestrained umbrella sampling. Moreover, the restraining approach results in a separation of contributions to the total binding free energy. The calculated contributions indicate that the free energy change associated with the restriction of conformational freedom upon propagation makes a large opposing contribution of higher magnitude than the total binding free energy. Finally, optimization of the approach leads to further significant reduction of the computational demand which is crucial for systematic studies on mutations, denaturants and inhibitors in the fibril propagation step.
Effects of Bipolaris yamadae strain HXDC‐1‐2 as a bioherbicide against Echinochloa crus‐galli in rice and dry fields
Authors: Tan Min , Zhang Yuanhe , Zhang Yangjiao , Vurro Maurizio , Qiang Sheng
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Barnyardgrass (Weed Science Society of America recommended) or Barnyard grass (Britannica recommended) (Echinochloa crus‐galli (L.) P. Beauv.) is one of the most problematic and dominant weeds in world agricultural systems, especially in paddy fields, where tillering and grain yield can be reduced by 50–70% because of its competitive pressure. The frequent use of chemical herbicides to control E. crus‐galli has led to the evolution of herbicide resistance. Developing bioherbicides using pathogenic fungi to control E. crus‐galli could be an alternative option.

RESULTS

In a previous study we showed that a strain of Bipolaris yamadae (HXDC‐1‐2) was promising in controlling gramineous weeds. Here we present a study that evaluated this fungus as a mycoherbicide against E. crus‐galli in greenhouse and paddy fields, characterized mycelium growth and conidial production, and examined the infection development. The median effective dose (ED50) and 90% effective dose (ED90) values of microcapsulated B. yamadae strain HXDC‐1‐2 on E. crus‐galli in the greenhouse were 7.17 × 102 and 9.35 × 103 conidia mL−1, respectively. Conidial germination, mycelial growth, and attachment formation occurred on E. crus‐galli leaves within 1 to 6 h. The hyphae directly invaded cells and stomata, primarily from the appressorium on the epidermis, and necrotic lesions were observed on the leaf surface within 20 to 24 h. Applied to E. crus‐galli plants at 1 × 105 conidia mL−1, the fungus reduced the weed's fresh weight of 75%.

CONCLUSION

B. yamadae strain HXDC‐1‐2 has the potential to be developed as a bioherbicide against E. crus‐galli plants, especially in rice fields. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Pulmonary endarterectomy for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension with bronchial obstruction by a carcinoid tumor
Authors: Monden Yuki , Une Dai , Mitsumune Sho , Shimokawahara Hiroto , Okada Hirofumi , Yoshida Kenji , Kato Shutaro , Kamaguchi Suzuka , Nakai Mikizo , Ando Motomi
Published: March 2024

Pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) is a standard treatment for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). CTEPH combined with bronchial obstruction by a tumor is rare but should be assessed carefully because PEA for obstructed segments can be less therapeutic and make the subsequent surgical resection challenging. This report describes a case of CTEPH with bronchial obstruction by a typical carcinoid tumor in a 75‐year‐old man. On‐site evaluation and removal of the obstructive tumor were performed bronchoscopically, increasing the effectiveness of subsequent PEA for all affected pulmonary segments. This report illustrates a PEA strategy to treat CTEPH with bronchial tumor obstruction.
Robotics‐driven gait analysis: Assessing Azure Kinect's performance in in‐lab versus in‐corridor environments
Authors: Guffanti Diego , Brunete Alberto , Hernando Miguel , Álvarez David , Gambao Ernesto , Chamorro William , Fernández‐Vázquez Diego , Navarro‐López Víctor , Carratalá‐Tejada María , Miangolarra‐Page Juan Carlos
Published: March 2024

Gait analysis offers vital insights into human movement, aiding in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of various conditions. Analyzing gait in corridors, rather than in lab, provides unique advantages for a more comprehensive understanding of human locomotion. However, limited dedicated technologies constrain gait data analysis in this context. In this study, a markerless gait analysis system using an Azure Kinect sensor mounted on a mobile robot is proposed and validated as a potential solution for gait analysis in corridors. Ten healthy participants (4 males and 6 females) underwent two tests. The first test (5 trials per participant) took place in the laboratory. Here, Azure Kinect performance was validated against a Vicon system, assessing eight gait signals and 22 gait parameters. The second test (2 trials per participant) was performed in the corridors over a 32‐m walking distance to compare this gait pattern with the one developed within the laboratory. The intrasession Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) reliability for in‐lab experiments was assessed by calculating the ICC between gait cycles captured in each session per participant. Notably, knee flexion/extension (ICC‐0.95), hip flexion/extension (ICC‐0.96), pelvis rotation (ICC‐0.88), and interankle distance (ICC‐0.98) demonstrated excellent reliability with high confidence. Similarly, hip adduction/abduction showed good reliability (ICC‐0.79), while trunk rotation exhibited moderate reliability (ICC‐0.72). In contrast, both trunk tilt (ICC‐0.24) and pelvis tilt (ICC‐0.41) consistently displayed lower reliability. This was observed for both the Vicon and the Azure systems, highlighting the intricate nature of capturing precise data for these specific signals in both systems. Validity outcomes indicated comparable error rates to literature standards ( knee flexion/extension, hip flexion/extension, and hip adduction/abduction), with 11 parameters having no significant differences from Vicon. Comparison of in‐lab and in‐corridor experiments show that individuals exhibit significantly longer stride time (1.10 s vs. 1.05 s), lower pelvis tilt ( vs. ), and lower minimum pelvis rotation ( vs. ) when walking in the laboratory. This study demonstrates promising outcomes in outdoor gait analysis with a robot‐mounted camera, revealing significant distinctions from controlled laboratory evaluations
Autonomous navigation and adaptive path planning in dynamic greenhouse environments utilizing improved LeGO‐LOAM and OpenPlanner algorithms
Authors: Yao Xingbo , Bai Yuhao , Zhang Baohua , Xu Dahua , Cao Guangzheng , Bian Yifan
Published: March 2024

The autonomous navigation of greenhouse robots depends on precise mapping, accurate localization information and a robust path planning strategy. However, the complex agricultural environment introduces significant challenges to robot perception and path planning. In this study, a hardware system designed exclusively for greenhouse agricultural environments is presented, employing multi‐sensor fusion to diminish the interference of complex environmental conditions. Furthermore, a robust autonomous navigation framework based on the improved lightweight and ground optimized lidar odometry and mapping (LeGO‐LOAM) and OpenPlanner has been proposed. In the perception phase, a relocalization module is integrated into the LeGO‐LOAM framework. Comprising two key steps—map matching and filtering optimization, it ensures a more precise pose relocalization. During the path planning process, ground structure and plant density are considered in our Enhanced OpenPlanner. Additionally, a hysteresis strategy is introduced to enhance the stability of system state transitions. The performance of the navigation system in this paper was evaluated in several complex greenhouse environments. The integration of the relocalization module significantly decreases the absolute pose error (APE) in the perception process, resulting in more accurate pose estimation and relocalization information. In our experiments, the APE was reduced by at least 24.42%. Moreover, our enhanced OpenPlanner exhibits the capability to plan safer trajectories and achieve more stable state transitions in the experiments. The results underscore the safety and robustness of our proposed approach, highlighting its promising application prospects in autonomous navigation for agricultural robots.
Development of a hazard risk map for assessing pedestrian risk in urban flash floods: A case study in Cúcuta, Colombia
Authors: Corzo Perez Gerald Augusto , Sanchez Tapiero Diego Ivan , Contreras Martínez Manuel Antonio , Zevenbergen Chris
Published: March 2024

The rapid growth of impervious areas in urban basins worldwide has increased the number of impermeable surfaces in cities, leading to severe flooding and significant economic losses for civilians. This trend highlights the urgent need for methodologies that assess flood hazards and specifically address the direct impact on pedestrians, which is often overlooked in traditional flood hazard analyses. This study aims to evaluate a methodology for assessing the risk to pedestrians from hydrodynamic forces during urban floods, with a specific focus on Cúcuta, Colombia. The methodology couples research outcomes from other studies on the impact of floodwaters on individuals of different ages and sizes with 1D/2D hydrological modeling. Advanced computational algorithms for image recognition were used to measure water levels at 5‐s intervals on November 6, 2020, using drones for digital elevation model data collection. In Cúcuta, where flood risk is high and drainage infrastructure is limited, the PCSWMM (Computer‐based Urban Stormwater Management Model) was calibrated and validated to simulate extreme flood events. The model incorporated urban infrastructure details and geomorphological parameters of Cúcuta's urban basin. Four return periods (5, 10, 50, 100), with extreme rainfall of 3 h, were used to estimate the variability of the risk map. The output of the model was analyzed, and an integrated and time‐varying comparison of the results was done. Results show that the regions of high‐water depth and high velocity could vary significantly along the duration of the different extreme events. Also, from 5 to 100 years return period, the percentage of area at risk increased from 9.6% to 16.6%. The pedestrian sensitivity appears much higher than the increase in velocities or water depth individually. This study identified medium to high‐risk locations, which are dynamic in time. We can conclude dynamics are spatiotemporal, and the added information layer of pedestrians brings vulnerability information that is also dynamic. Areas of immediate concern in Cúcuta can enhance pedestrian safety during flash flood events. The spatiotemporal variation of patterns requires further studies to map trajectories and sequences that machine learning models could capture.
N2O consumption, uptake, and microbial reduction processes in flooded sandy loamy paddy soils
Authors: Wang Wei , Li Kun , Li Jun , Zhong Jinmei , Xia Lei , Chen Wenqin , Li Zhaohua , Wang Ling
Published: March 2024

Sandy loamy soils are widely distributed in fluvial floodplains and experience flooding events frequently, resulting in a large amount of nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. This case is more serious when the soil use is changed to paddies. It is of great significance to figure out the N2O consumption and its influencing factors in sandy loamy paddy soils to mitigate N2O emissions. In this study, three sandy loamy paddy soils (0–5 cm) originated from lake deposits were selected (S1, S2, and S3) as objectives. A certain concentration of exogenous N2O was added at the bottom of the flooded soil column to monitor the dynamics of N2O and nitrogen (N2) on the soil surface. Total N2O consumption, N2O uptake, and N2 production were quantified, and the abundance of nitrous oxide reductase genes (nosZI, and nosZII) and other soil properties (ammonium‐nitrogen, nitrate‐nitrogen, and dissolved organic carbon [DOC] content) were analyzed. The results showed that the sandy loamy paddy soil column with a depth of 0–5 cm could intercept more than 95% of the exogenous N2O under the flooded anaerobic condition, indicating that the three sandy loamy paddy soils all had extremely strong N2O consumption capacities. And the increment of N2 accounted for 68.73%–76.09% of the total N2O consumption, which had a stronger relationship with the increase of nosZI gene abundance than nosZII gene. In addition, the total N2O consumption and N2 increment of S1 and S3 soils were significantly higher than those of S2 soil. This difference was mainly related to soil organic matter content, total nitrogen content, DOC consumption, and the increase of nosZI gene abundance (p < 0.05). The strong N2O consumption potential of sandy loamy soils can provide feasible solutions for regulating N2O emissions in a wide range of similar environments in fluvial floodplains.
Tailored (La0.2Pr0.2Nd0.2Tb0.2Dy0.2)2Ce2O7 as a Highly Active and Stable Nanocatalyst for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Paladugu Sreya , Abdullahi Ibrahim Munkaila , Jothi Palani Raja , Jiang Bo , Nath Manashi , Page Katharine
Published: March 2024

Designing highly active and robust catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction is key to improving the overall efficiency of the water splitting reaction. It has been previously demonstrated that evaporation induced self‐assembly (EISA) can be used to synthesize highly porous and high surface area cerate‐based fluorite nanocatalysts, and that substitution of Ce with 50% rare earth (RE) cations significantly improves electrocatalyst activity. Herein, the defect structure of the best performing nanocatalyst in the series are further explored, Nd2Ce2O7, with a combination of neutron diffraction and neutron pair distribution function analysis. It is found that Nd3 + cation substitution for Ce in the CeO2 fluorite lattice introduces higher levels of oxygen Frenkel defects and induces a partially reduced RE1.5Ce1.5O5 + x phase with oxygen vacancy ordering. Significantly, it is demonstrated that the concentration of oxygen Frenkel defects and improved electrocatalytic activity can be further enhanced by increasing the compositional complexity (number of RE cations involved) in the substitution. The resulting novel compositionally‐complex fluorite– (La0.2Pr0.2Nd0.2Tb0.2Dy0.2)2Ce2O7 is shown to display a low OER overpotential of 210 mV at a current density of 10 mAcm−2 in 1M KOH, and excellent cycling stability. It is suggested that increasing the compositional complexity of fluorite nanocatalysts expands the ability to tailor catalyst design.
Alternatives to Fluoropolymers for Motion‐Based Energy Harvesting: Perspectives on Piezoelectricity, Triboelectricity, Ferroelectrets, and Flexoelectricity
Authors: Sherrell Peter C. , Šutka Anna , Timusk Martin , Šutka Andris
Published: March 2024

Fluoropolymers, including polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, Teflon), polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), and fluorine kautschuk materials (FKMs, Viton) are critical polymers for applications ranging from non‐stick coatings, corrosion resistant seals, semiconductor manufacturing, membranes, and energy harvesting technologies. However, the synthesis of these fluoropolymers requires the use of per‐ and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) known colloquially as “forever chemicals,” and as such there is a pressing need to develop alternative technologies that can serve the end‐use of fluoropolymers without the environmental cost of using PFAS. Further, fluoropolymers themselves fall under the PFAS umbrella. Here, alternative mechanical‐to‐electrical energy harvesting polymers are reviewed and benchmarked against the leading fluoropolymer energy harvesters. These alternative technologies include nonfluoropolymer piezoelectric polymers, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), ferroelectric elastomers, and flexoelectric polymers. A vision towards sustainable, non‐fluoropolymer‐based energy harvesting is provided.
Low‐Cost Metallization Based on Ag/Cu Fingers for Exceeding 25% Efficiency in Industrial Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Du Daxue , Huang Huanpei , Li Xingbing , Ma Sheng , Zhao Dongming , Li Rui , Huang Haiwei , Hao Zhidan , Meng Fanying , Li Lin , He Li , Ding Dong , Liu Zhengxin , Zhang Wenbin , Shen Wenzhong
Published: March 2024

Although Ag‐coated Cu technology is considered to be an effective approach to mitigate the metallization expenses associated with silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells, there is limited reporting on the photovoltaic performance and reliability of devices employing Ag/Cu electrodes. Herein, industrial SHJ solar cells were successfully fabricated, yielding an average efficiency of 25.18% with bifacial Ag/Cu fingers, which caused a 0.13% decline in efficiency but saved 46% in Ag consumption when compared to traditional Ag fingers. Performance degradation is demonstrated to originate essentially from the front rather than rear Ag/Cu fingers, as revealed by a comprehensive analysis of resistances enhancement and optical losses. Notably, the Ag/Cu fingers exhibited 1.4% lower printed qualification rate and similar high‐temperature stabilities in contrast to Ag fingers. In the results, valuable insights were provided for further optimization of low‐cost and high‐efficiency SHJ solar cells based on Ag/Cu electrodes.
RETRACTED: Refining molecular subtypes and risk stratification of ovarian cancer through multi‐omics consensus portfolio and machine learning
Authors: Zhang Jing , He Shanshan , Ying Hongjun
Published: March 2024

Ovarian cancer (OC), known for its pronounced heterogeneity, has long evaded a unified classification system despite extensive research efforts. This study integrated five distinct multi‐omics datasets from eight multicentric cohorts, applying a combination of ten clustering algorithms and ninety‐nine machine learning models. This methodology has enabled us to refine the molecular subtyping of OC, leading to the development of a novel Consensus Machine Learning‐driven Signature (CMLS). Our analysis delineated two prognostically significant cancer subtypes (CS), each marked by unique genetic and immunological signatures. Notably, CS1 is associated with an adverse prognosis. Leveraging a subtype classifier, we identified five key genes (CTHRC1, SPEF1, SCGB3A1, FOXJ1, and C1orf194) instrumental in constructing the CMLS. Patients classified within the high CMLS group exhibited a poorer prognosis and were characterized by a “cold tumor” phenotype, indicative of an immunosuppressive microenvironment rich in MDSCs, CAFs, and Tregs. Intriguingly, this group also presented higher levels of tumor mutation burden (TMB) and tumor neoantigen burden (TNB), factors that correlated with a more favorable response to immunotherapy compared to their low CMLS counterparts. In contrast, the low CMLS group, despite also displaying a “cold tumor” phenotype, showed a favorable prognosis and a heightened responsiveness to chemotherapy. This study's findings underscore the potential of targeting immune‐suppressive cells, particularly in patients with high CMLS, as a strategic approach to enhance OC prognosis. Furthermore, the redefined molecular subtypes and risk stratification, achieved through sophisticated multi‐omics analysis, provide a framework for the selection of therapeutic agents.
Integrated analysis of gut microbiota and metabolomic profiling in colorectal cancer metastasis
Authors: Xia Yang , Duan Ling , Zhang Xin‐lian , Niu Yu‐juan , Ling Xiaoling
Published: March 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is characterized by its heterogeneity and complex metastatic mechanisms, presenting significant challenges in treatment and prognosis. This study aimed to unravel the intricate interplay between the gut microbiota and metabolic alterations associated with CRC metastasis. By employing high‐throughput sequencing and advanced metabolomic techniques, we identified distinct patterns in the gut microbiome and fecal metabolites across different CRC metastatic sites. The differential gene analysis highlighted significant enrichment in biological processes related to immune response and extracellular matrix organization, with key genes playing roles in the complement and clotting cascades, and staphylococcus aureus infections. Protein–protein interaction networks further elucidated the potential mechanisms driving CRC spread, emphasizing the importance of extracellular vesicles and the PPAR signaling pathway in tumor metastasis. Our comprehensive microbiota analysis revealed a relatively stable alpha diversity across groups but identified specific bacterial genera associated with metastatic stages. Metabolomic profiling using OPLS‐DA models unveiled distinct metabolic signatures, with differential metabolites enriched in pathways crucial for cancer metabolism and immune modulation. Integrative analysis of the gut microbiota and metabolic profiles highlighted significant correlations, suggesting a complex interplay that may influence CRC progression and metastasis. These findings offer novel insights into the microbial and metabolic underpinnings of CRC metastasis, paving the way for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies targeting the gut microbiome and metabolic pathways.
Synthesis of Au‐decorated WO3 nanoplates for simultaneous oxidation of RhB and reduction of Cr(VI) under visible light irradiation
Authors: Do Thi Anh Thu , Ho Truong Giang , Giang Hong Thai , Pham Quang Ngan , Nguyen Duc Toan , Nghiem Thi Ha Lien , Nguyen Trung Hieu , Man Minh Tan
Published: March 2024

Tungsten oxide (WO3) nanoplates were synthesized by a simple chemical precipitation technique. These nanoplates were decorated by Au nanoparticles via photoreduction route. The obtained samples were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffractometry and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy to investigate their morphological, structural and optical properties. The SEM images show the plate morphology with the size in the range of 50–150 nm, their thickness ≈10 nm; spherical‐like Au nanoparticles ≈20 nm were attached to the surface of the WO3 plates. These materials were applied for the simultaneous photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) and Cr(VI) under visible light. Due to the efficient separation of photoinduced charge carriers and the enhanced visible light absorption ability, the photocatalytic performance of Au‐decorated WO3 nanoplates was higher. The main active species responsible for the photodegradation reactions were identified by different scavengers and a photocatalytic mechanism was proposed. This work represents that WO3 nanoplates are a promising candidate for the degradation of organic and inorganic pollutants from the industrial wastewater under sun light exposure.
Synthesis of magnesium hydroxide powder and dry powders for application in extinguishing petroleum fires
Authors: Le Giang H. , Thanh Duong A. , My Pham T. H. , Pham Trang T. T. , Quan Trang T. T. , Nguyen Quan Minh , Ngo Quoc Anh
Published: March 2024

Fire extinguishing agents are an important factor in the fight against fires. In this study, a new composite powder (CSPMS) was synthesized and used to extinguish fires caused by petroleum products. SiO2 nanoparticles, Mg(OH)2 nanoparticles, and nanocomposites of NH4H2PO4/chitosan (CSP) were combined to generate CSPMS powder. The structure and morphology of the material were characterized using methods such as XRD, SEM, FTIR, etc. The results showed that the synthesized Mg(OH)2 nanoparticle size ranged from 20 to 30 nm, and the NH4H2PO4 nanoparticle size ranged from 800 to 900 nm on the chitosan surface. The CSPMS material had particle sizes ranging from 2 to 3 µm, with a uniform distribution of SiO2 nanoparticles (50–100 nm) and Mg(OH)2 nanoparticles on the surface. The powdered materials were applied to extinguish gasoline and oil fires. CSPMS sample demonstrated the best fire extinguishing time and powder consumption (5.8 s and 12.2 g, respectively) and CO emission below the threshold of 400 ppm. Small‐scale fire extinguishing tests showed that CSPMS powder had better fire extinguishing capability, cooling time, and CO gas adsorption ability compared to commercial fire extinguishing powder.