bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cerebral hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism in patients with milder and severe forms of sickle cell disease and thalassemia
Authors: Afzali‐Hashemi Liza , Baas Koen P. A. , Schrantee Anouk , Nur Erfan , Vu Chau , Choi Soyoung , Suriany Silvie , Wood John C. , Nederveen Aart J. , Biemond Bart J.
Published: December 2024

Silent cerebral infarcts (SCIs) are present in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) and thalassemia, but the pathophysiology of SCIs is not fully understood. Previous studies mainly focused on cerebral hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism in patients with severe SCD (HbSS/HbSβ°) but not in milder forms of SCD (HbSC/HbSβ+) and thalassemia despite the high prevalence of SCIs in these patients. In this work, we studied the cerebral hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism, and SCI lesion load in 75 severe and 26 mild adult SCD patients, 18 thalassemia patients (as anemic comparison group), and 30 healthy controls before and after a vasodilatory challenge with acetazolamide. Cerebral blood flow was significantly higher in patients with severe SCD and thalassemia compared to patients with mild SCD and controls (p < 0.05). Conversely, oxygen extraction fraction and cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) were significantly lower in patients with severe SCD and thalassemia compared to other groups (p < 0.01). In contrast, no difference in SCI volumes was found between mild and severe SCD and thalassemia patients. After acetazolamide administration, oxygen delivery increased less in severe SCD and thalassemia patients compared to other groups (p < 0.01) and CMRO2 decreased only in severe SCD patients (p < 0.01). Given the reduced CMRO2 values in severe SCD and thalassemia patients, we conclude that reduced cerebral oxygen consumption in these patient groups is mostly related to anemia. Our data suggest that the pathophysiology of SCIs in patients with milder forms of SCD might be more related to prior episodes of anemia or other sickle cell‐related factors.
Effect of Interface Bonding on Optimizing the Heat Transfer in Substrate Board With an Array of Heat Sources
Authors: Varma Y. Aditya , Nelson N. Rino , Venkateshan S. P.
Published: December 2024

Effective heat distribution in electronic circuitry is essential to improve the performance and life of electronic components such as chips. This study presents a numerical analysis of heat transfer on a substrate board populated with an array of discrete heat sources, assumed to be placed in a horizontal air channel for forced convection cooling. The analysis of electronic packages is performed, taking into consideration the effect of thermal contact conductance (TCC) between the heat source (chip) and the substrate board. The dependence of the temperature distribution on the Reynolds number of air at the inlet and the heating power from the heat source is investigated for inlet velocities ranging from 0.6 to 1.4 m/s and observed to be significant. Temperature and heat transfer coefficient are observed to systematically increase with the increase in the heat dissipation from the heat source. Two configurations—inline and staggered—are analyzed, with the staggered configuration showing superior cooling performance. This improvement is attributed to the fact that staggered arrangements expose fewer heat sources to pre‐heated air before it exits the system. Additionally, the location of the heat source reaching the highest temperature is found to be highly dependent on the TCC of the bonding material between the heat source and the substrate. A hybrid optimization strategy is employed, by combining Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Genetic Algorithm (GA) for optimizing the location of heat sources. ANN is used for predicting the temperature distribution, subsequently followed by GA to minimize the maximum temperature attained by the heat generating source by varying other control variables like TCC thickness, inlet velocity, and heat generation. The thickness of the bonding layer is varied from 0.225 to 0.271 mm and the heat generation is varied from 1000 to 2000 W/m2. Among them, TCC is observed to be an important parameter controlling the optimum location of heat generating sources. The results obtained from the proposed hybrid optimization strategy are compared with the simulation results and observed to be reasonably close.
Genetic machinery which accompanies metaplasticity operates differentially in experimental model of autism
Authors: Benli Esra Tufan , Babur Ercan , Dursun Nurcan , Saray Hatice , Barutçu Özlem , Süer Cem
Published: December 2024

The present study investigated metaplasticity‐related mRNA expressions in valproic acid (VPA)‐rats, focusing on the PI3K/AKT pathway. Wistar dams were treated with a single intraperitoneal injection of 600 mg/kg VPA or saline on embryonic day E12.5 or an equal volume of saline solution. Three behavioral tests were conducted on these males' offspring: grid‐walking test, negative geotaxis test, and three‐chamber social interaction test. Metaplasticity was induced in 60‐day‐old male progeny by giving high‐frequency stimulation for 5 minutes following low‐frequency stimulation to the perforant pathway. For the baseline stimulation protocol (n = 6), stimulation was delivered to the dentate gyrus at the previously determined stimulation intensity (0.33 Hz 0.175 msec 30 s) for 75 min. The percent change of slope of field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSP) and amplitude of population spike were calculated 55–60 min after induction protocol. The mRNA levels of PI3K, PTEN, AKT, GSK‐3β, and MAPT were measured in the hippocampus by using quantitative rt‐PCR. We found that offspring of VPA‐treated rats showed significantly impaired sensorimotor coordination, decreased sociability, impaired preference for social novelty, and reduced input–output curve of fEPSP slope, compared to control animals. Despite a similar metaplastic response, mRNA levels of genes of interest were similar but considerably down‐regulated after induction in offspring of VPA‐treated dams. Our study provides evidence that the induced expression of autism‐related genes has evolved to enable an adaptation mechanism during metaplastic control of long‐term potentiation.
Evaluation of face validity and core concepts of a novel knowledge scale for inherited heart disease: A pilot study
Authors: Christian Susan , Dzwiniel Tara , Baker Amy , Biesecker Barbara , Borle Kennedy , Mostafavi Roya , Slamon Jillian , Wand Hannah , Yeates Laura
Published: December 2024

The rising demand for genetic counseling has prompted the implementation of various innovative service delivery models, such as patient webinars, videos, chatbots, and the integration of genetic testing into mainstream healthcare. To ensure patients receive adequate information for informed decision‐making, validated measures to assess these models are essential but currently limited in the setting of inherited heart disease. We aimed to develop and initiate validation of a cardiac knowledge scale, as part of the Multidimensional Model of Informed Choice measure, to assess whether patients (probands and family members) with inherited cardiomyopathies, arrhythmias, and aortopathies are provided with sufficient knowledge to make informed decisions about genetic testing. Content expert genetic counselors identified eight core concepts addressed during genetic counseling sessions; from these, eight true/false knowledge questions were created. Questions were reviewed by 22 international cardiac genetics counselors with additional changes made. Initial validation steps of the knowledge scale were conducted at two sites: the Edmonton Medical Genetic Clinic, University of Alberta Hospital in Edmonton, Canada, and the Genetic Heart Disease Clinic, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, Australia. Face validity was evaluated through nine patient interviews, resulting in minor revisions to four questions and major revisions to one question. An additional five patient interviews were conducted to evaluate the revised questions. The core concepts addressed in each question were further evaluated in the context of patient decision‐making about genetic testing. All participants described the eight concepts as either helpful or essential in their decision‐making process. The cardiac knowledge scale is a promising measure created to evaluate the informed choice of patients and their families affected by an inherited heart condition. The next step of validation includes trialing the cardiac knowledge scale with a real‐world sample of patients deciding about genetic testing for inherited heart disease.
Current practice in the management of paediatric autoimmune liver disease in Europe
Authors: Cananzi Mara , Jørgensen Marianne Hørby , Buescher Gustav , De Bruyne Ruth , Samyn Marianne ,   ESPGHAN Hepatology Interest Group and the ERN RARE‐LIVER Autoimmune Hepatitis Working Group
Published: December 2024

Objective

Paediatric autoimmune liver disease (pAILD) is a rare condition with serious health implications. Notwithstanding treatment advancements, areas of uncertainty and knowledge gaps still exist. We here investigated the real‐life approach to pAILD management in Europe.

Methods

A survey was distributed to members of the European Rare Liver Disease Reference Network (ERN RARE‐LIVER) and the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) Hepatology Interest Group. Information was gathered regarding clinical activity, medications used, and access to paediatric drug formulations at each site.

Results

Thirty‐six centres from 22 European countries responded to the survey. The majority are exclusively paediatric units (86%). Among participants, 80% follow <50 children with pAILD, of which 25%–50% are <10 years old in 44% of centres. All centres use predniso(lo)ne as first‐line therapy, alone (15/36) or with azathioprine (21/36). Azathioprine and mycophenolate are the preferred second‐line options in centres using first‐line steroid monotherapy (11/15) or combined steroid‐azathioprine (19/21), respectively. Tacrolimus is used as third‐line agent in 15/36 centres. Proactive measurement of drug metabolites and target levels vary widely among centres. Paediatric predniso(lo)ne formulations are commercially available in 7/22 European countries, azathioprine in 3, mycophenolate in 14, tacrolimus in 15 and ursodeoxycholic acid in 14. When paediatric formulations are unavailable, children are treated with magisterial preparations or ‘solid’ formulations (crushed or intact).

Conclusions

Treatment of pAILD in Europe varies widely in terms of medications used and treatment monitoring. Availability of paediatric drug formulations across Europe is limited. Collaborative initiatives are needed to define evidence‐based strategies for management of pAILD and to promote an equal, age‐appropriate treatment for affected children.
Charcoal morphotypes as indicators of fire fuel types and fire events along eight centuries in east‐central Mexico
Authors: Torres‐Rodríguez Esperanza , Figueroa‐Rangel Blanca L. , Caballero Margarita , Valera‐Fernández Daisy , López‐Méndez Daniela , Lozano‐García Socorro
Published: December 2024

The study of fire and charcoal production in tropical mesophytic ecosystems provides valuable insights into the ecological and climatic history of these systems. The diverse vegetation produces charcoal in various forms and sizes, which influences its dispersion and provides key information about fire dynamics. In this study, we used an approximately 850‐year sedimentary charcoal record extracted from Lake Atezca in east‐central Mexico to reconstruct the history of fire activity, including frequency and intensity. We present innovative information on charcoal morphotypes to interpret fire regimes, identify the types of vegetation burned and analyze human impact. The results reveal a shift in fire regimes during the Spanish Conquest, transitioning from local‐scale burning associated with intensive wood burning for indigenous agriculture to regional‐scale burning characterized by the burning of herbs and grasses linked to the expansion of extensive livestock grazing. This transition is reflected in the decrease of wood charcoal and the increase of smaller particles, as well as in the rise in titanium in the sediments, indicating greater landscape alteration. The evolution of fire regimes in Lake Atezca was driven primarily by human activities since pre‐Hispanic times, although climatic factors, such as severe droughts, may have also influenced fire activity.
An Insight into the Genetic Predisposition of Metabolic Dysfunction‐Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in Africa
Authors: Moolla Yusuf , Ramsuran Veron
Published: December 2024

African individuals with metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MAFLD) may have unique genetic factors that influence the clinical manifestations of MAFLD. The paucity of both epidemiological data on MAFLD within Africa and the lack of genetic research thereof have disadvantaged the population, as extrapolated data out the region has been utilised to direct health care policy and management of the disease. This unique cohort of MAFLD individuals within Africa requires further epidemiological and genomic research to advance precision medicine within the realm of clinical hepatology. With the anticipated increase in non‐communicable disease that sub‐Saharan African may experience in the near future, a robust large study within Africa may provide insight as to whether MAFLD prevalence may be expected to significantly add to this impending health burden; furthermore, a genetic research component may provide insight into whether protective genetic variants are present or whether there is a lack of pathogenic variants, thereby allowing clinicians and policy strategists to have a better understanding of the disease prevalence and manifestations in African individuals. The aim of this publication was to review the current prevalence trends of MAFLD within Africa and the knowledge of the genetic landscape of MAFLD individuals of African descent.
Advanced Variational Iteration Method to Solve Two Different Models of Third‐Order Nonlinear Emden–Fowler‐Type Equations
Authors: Kumar Sinha Vikash , Maroju Prashanth
Published: December 2024

In this research, we propose an advanced variational iteration method by employing the Adomian polynomials with the variational iteration method to solve the system of third‐order nonlinear Emden–Fowler‐type equations arise in several applications. The third‐order nonlinear Emden–Fowler‐type equations have singularity at origin and are characterized by two models, with the shaped factor appearing two times in the first model and once in the other model. The proposed method overcomes the singularity at the origin and handles both models with different‐shaped factors. The convergence study of the proposed method for both models is also discussed in Banach space. Five models of interest are provided to test the validity and efficiency of the proposed method. The investigations confirm that the proposed method is able to solve complex problems in a few iterations with less computational time.
Was der Schatten des Tropfens verrät
Authors: Ehrensberger Christian
Published: December 2024

Wie gut ein Bier schäumt, ein Kleber haftet oder wie feucht ein Agrarboden ist, beschreibt der Kontaktwinkel an Phasengrenzflächen. Besonders präzise ermitteln lässt er sich über das Pendant‐drop‐Verfahren aus dem Schattenbild hängender Tropfen.
Blau unter Strom
Authors: Habekost Achim
Published: December 2024

Bromthymolblau und Bromphenolblau sind Triphenylmethanfarbstoffe und dienen als Indikatoren. Sie lassen sich elektrochemisch aus Thymol‐ und Phenolblau herstellen. Wie genau läuft das ab?
Knoevenagel kreativ statt klassisch
Authors: Täuscher Eric
Published: December 2024

Bei der Knoevenagel‐Kondensation reagieren Ketone oder Aldehyde mit besonders CH‐aciden Verbindungen. In der Regel beschränken sich Praktikumsvorschriften auf aromatische Aldehyde. Aber das muss nicht sein: Anregungen, die Reaktion abzuwandeln.
Europaweite Bioanorganik‐Tagung in Münster
Authors: Hebenbrock Marian
Published: December 2024

Ende August fand in Münster die EuroBIC‐17 (17th European Biological Inorganic Chemistry Conference) statt. Nach über 20 Jahren hat die größte europäische Tagung der Bioanorganischen Chemie wieder ihren Weg nach Deutschland gefunden. Ausgerichtet wurde sie zusammen von Universität Münster, RWTH Aachen und Universität Bochum. Zur thematischen Vielfalt der Konferenz trugen 422 Teilnehmende aus sechs Kontinenten bei. In vier Parallelsessions boten 160 Vortragende Einblicke in aktuelle Forschungsergebnisse, umrahmt von sechs Plenarvorträgen. Neben den Vorträgen eröffnete sich für 212 Teilnehmende die Gelegenheit zur Präsentation wissenschaftlicher Ergebnisse in zwei Postersessions.
Nachruf: Günter Henrion (1933 – 2024)
Authors: Scholz Fritz
Published: December 2024

Günter Henrion war ein begnadeter analytischer Chemiker und Hochschullehrer. Seine zutiefst humanistischen Anschauungen und seine umfangreiche Allgemeinbildung sind uns unvergesslich.
Nachruf: Karl‐Heinz Thiele (1930 – 2024)
Authors: Edelmann Frank T. , Lorenz Volker , Köhler Joachim
Published: December 2024

Karl‐Heinz Thiele war ein Wegbereiter der modernen metallorganischen Chemie und ein mitreißender Hochschullehrer.
60. Symposium für theoretische Chemie in Braunschweig
Authors: Jacob Christoph , Wolter Mario , Proppe Jonny
Published: December 2024

Anfang September 2024 fand das Symposium für theoretische Chemie (STC 2024) in Braunschweig statt, die wichtigste internationale Tagung der theoretischen Chemie im deutschsprachigen Raum. Knapp 400 Menschen nahmen teil, 12 Sprecher:innen waren der Einladung gefolgt, vorzutragen, außerdem gab es 22 Kurzvorträge und 250 Posterbeiträge. Die Gruppen der theoretischen Chemie an der TU Braunschweig hatte die Konferenz organisiert.
On the Identification of the Basal Drag Parameter in Ice Sheet Models Using L‐Curves
Authors: Höyns Lea‐Sophie , Kleiner Thomas , Kranz Felix , Meyer Tim , Rademacher Andreas , Wolovick Michael , Humbert Angelika
Published: December 2024

The unknown and not observable basal drag distribution underneath the glaciers strongly impacts ice flow speeds and, with that, the ongoing mass loss of the Antarctic Ice Sheet. Therefore, basal drag is required for precise ice sheet modeling and accurate projections of future sea‐level rise. This can be achieved by applying an inverse method based on observed ice surface velocity data. The forward model equations, including boundary conditions, represent the ice dynamics in an approximated way. The ice‐base boundary condition is the main focus here, as it describes a non‐linear friction law. This law depends on the unknown basal drag parameter determined by the inversion and utilizes an effective pressure from a subglacial hydrology model. The inverse method minimizes a cost function consisting of the sum of a term quantifying the misfit between simulated and observed surface velocities and a regularization term to penalize unrealistic oscillations in the basal drag parameter. An L‐curve analysis determines the optimal weighting of both cost function terms. Here, we perform inversions for three different domains of Antarctica, comprising about 9.4 Mio , to compare the variability of the resulting basal drag and the L‐curves. The results present a low basal drag, as well as a low variability, predominating over large parts of the interior of EAIS and WAIS. In contrast, some fast‐flowing glaciers reveal a patchy pattern of alternating high and low basal drag. In addition, parts of the grounding line exhibit a high basal drag, which potentially affects the future retreat behavior of the ice sheets.
The potential of gardening and other plant‐related interventions to reduce symptoms of depression: A systematic review of non‐randomized controlled trials and uncontrolled studies
Authors: Rosa Claudio D. , Chaves Talisson S. , Collado Silvia , Larson Lincoln R. , Lee KangJae Jerry , Profice Christiana C.
Published: December 2024

Previous systematic reviews have examined the effect of horticultural interventions (e.g., taking care of plants, planting, gardening) on individuals' depressive symptoms through analyses focused exclusively on randomized controlled trials, but that approach overlooks a majority of the potentially informative published research.

To complement previous work, we searched the databases MEDLINE, PsycArticles, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov and identified 30 non‐RCTs (n = 1063 participants; all adults) and 32 uncontrolled studies (n = 517 participants; only one study included 6 young people) examining the effects of horticultural interventions on depression.

Using random effects meta‐analysis, we discovered the evidence from these studies largely supports findings from RCTs. Like the RCTs, the non‐RCTs indicate that some horticultural interventions combined with usual care (i.e., continuing normal routine for healthy people or conventional treatment for unhealthy ones) may reduce depressive symptoms more than usual care alone, with most studies finding a moderate (Hedges' g ≥ 0.5) or large effect (g ≥ 0.8). We also found that participants might adhere similarly well or even better to horticultural interventions than to usual care alone, and no adverse events were reported. Twenty‐five of the 32 uncontrolled studies reported pre and post‐intervention mean depression scores. Of these 25 studies, 24 reported an improvement in mean depression scores and, in 16 of them, the improvement was greater than 20%. All studies present some risk of bias due to design limitations, but no evidence of publication bias was detected.

Our findings support assertions that some horticultural interventions are effective and safe as a complementary strategy to reduce adults' depressive symptoms. More research is needed to understand how specific participant and intervention characteristics can influence the success of horticultural interventions on depressive symptoms.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Improving interlaminar fracture toughness and compression after impact strength of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites by interleaving electrospinning polyethersulfone nanofiber
Authors: Yu Mingming , Wu Lihui , Xie Wang , Zhang Ousheng , Liu Xueqiang , Ren Musu , Sun Jinliang
Published: December 2024

The effect of membrane thickness of electrospinning polyethersulfone (PES) nanofiber membranes on interlayer toughness and impact resistance of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy resin (CF/EP) composites are researched. Intercalation composites with different nanofiber membrane thicknesses, ranging from 10 to 50 μm, are tested at mode I and mode II interlaminar fracture toughness. The impact resistance of nanofiber membranes with different thicknesses is evaluated by the compression after impact (CAI) strength test. Moreover, nanofiber toughening contributions are investigated using the crack path and surface analysis. Results indicate that PES nanofibers increase the toughness of interlayer resin and change the interlaminar crack propagation path of CF/EP composites. The optimum nanofiber membrane thickness for mode I (GI = + 58%) and CAI (CAI strength = + 33%) is 50 μm, while for mode II is 30 μm (GII = + 16.4%). The storage modulus of CF/EP composites increases with the increase of nanofiber membrane thickness. The study also confirms the insertion of a nanofiber membrane slightly improves the tensile strength and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of the CF/EP composites.

Highlights

PES nanofiber membranes of different thicknesses were inserted into the CF/EP.

CAI and GI improved by 33% and 58%, respectively of CF/EP composites.

The relationship between interlayer fracture toughness and CAI was discussed.
Regulatory Impact of Selected U.S. FDA Postmarketing Safety Registries Conducted for Drugs Used to Treat Inflammatory or Autoimmune Conditions
Authors: Guiriansoro Zakaridja , Oussova Tatiana , Weissfeld Joel
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Assess the regulatory impact of selected FDA postmarketing safety registries on drug product labeling updates.

Methods

Postmarketing safety studies were identified in internal record repositories for the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, U.S. FDA, in March and September 2021. Studies eligible for review included prospectively enrolling patient registry studies conducted to assess the safety of drug products used to treat inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. These studies were requested between 1999 and 2011.

Results

This paper analyzed 10 safety (non‐pregnancy) registries and four pregnancy registries (n = 14). Only four safety registry studies were successful in reaching their targets for both patient enrollment and patient follow‐up or drug exposure. These registries were either multi‐center, multinational studies or studies using participants from a health insurance or health maintenance organization. None of the safety registries led to safety labeling updates, regardless of targets' achievement for study enrollment and follow‐up: six did not detect a new safety signal and four provided inconclusive results. Two pregnancy registries reached their targets for patient enrollment, and all four resulted in safety labeling updates, as required by the Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling Rule guidance.

Conclusions

While six non‐pregnancy registries did not detect a new safety signal, four did not produce safety results considered sufficiently robust to warrant specific regulatory action including safety‐related labeling updates. The lack of safety signal detection in these observational studies should not imply the absence of safety signals. Appropriately designed, prospective, randomized controlled safety studies are the most reliable way to obtain interpretable safety data.
The future of big data: Remote monitoring of positive airway pressure treatment for obstructive sleep apnea – insights from adults and implications for pediatric care
Authors: Bhattacharjee Rakesh , Winck Joao Carlos , Gozal David
Published: December 2024

The advent of large expansive datasets has generated substantial interest as a means of developing and implementing unique algorithms that facilitate more precise and personalized interventions. This methodology has permeated the realm of sleep medicine and in the care of patients with sleep disorders. One of the large repositories of information consists of adherence and physiological datasets across long periods of time as derived from patients undergoing positive airway pressure (PAP) treatment for sleep‐disordered breathing. Here, we evaluate the extant and yet scarce findings derived from big data in both adults and children receiving PAP for obstructive sleep apnea and suggest future directions towards more expansive utilization of such valuable approaches to improve therapeutic decisions and outcomes.
A Hybrid Parameters Estimation Approach for Power Consumption Modeling of Ground Mobile Robots With Unknown Payload
Authors: Haji Ali Mohamadi Parham , Khorasani Amin , Verstraten Tom , Vanderborght Bram
Published: December 2024

Typically, batteries are the main power source for mobile robots, and the practical constraints in carrying them pose challenges in achieving efficiency, autonomy, and safety objectives in robotic missions. Moreover, dealing with battery degradation requires a precise understanding of energy consumers' behavior in the system. Therefore, establishing an energy consumption model has an important role in addressing these challenges. This study focuses on the modeling and estimation of power consumption in indoor ground mobile robots with unknown payloads. We investigate key components and parameters that influence the actuation energy consumption of ground mobile robots equipped with DC motors, particularly in the context of pure rolling without slipping. To estimate the actuation power consumption of ground mobile robots, we present a hybrid parameters estimation approach. This method includes an offline step for estimating the mass‐decoupled coefficients of a power model, followed by two online steps for estimating the robot's unknown payload and its actuation power consumption. Simulation and experimental results with a differential drive robot (Turtlebot3) validate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Additionally, the performance of the proposed power consumption estimation method is compared with two other data‐driven models based on multivariate linear regression and multilayer perceptron neural networks. The results demonstrate that the proposed method provides improved power consumption estimation accuracy on the selected indicators compared to the others. We also emphasize the importance of balancing the accuracy of power consumption estimation with its associated costs in the context of the proposed approach. This extra cost includes the energy needed for additional data measurement and processing. Considering this trade‐off is crucial for the practical implementation and resource optimization in robotic systems.
Beyond natural flow: Human‐directed course change of the Kolong river in Nagaon, Assam, (India) and its socio‐ecological implications
Authors: Bhuyan Manash Jyoti , Deka Nityananda
Published: December 2024

The Kolong, a significant distributary of the mighty river Brahmaputra in Assam, India, has experienced significant human‐induced alterations aimed basically for flood mitigation. This study investigates the socio‐ecological impacts of the course change of the Kolong River done by the local people of Kahargaon village in Nagaon district of Assam, India. Employing a mixed‐methods approach, the research integrates field observations, stakeholder interviews, community forums, and secondary data analysis to assess the river's dynamics and its effects on local livelihoods and ecosystems. The findings reveal that while flood mitigation efforts have provided immediate relief, they have also led to ecological degradation and disrupted traditional livelihoods, particularly those dependent on the river's natural flow. The left‐out channel, once rich in biodiversity, now suffers from reduced water levels and a diminished riverine ecological niche, compelling communities to adapt through alternative agricultural practices and grazing. This study emphasizes the need for integrated management strategies that balance flood control with ecological preservation and livelihood sustainability. Thus, the study promotes community‐based conservation initiatives, restoring natural flow patterns, and developing adaptive livelihood strategies. The insights gained so far contribute to the broader understanding of human–river interactions and offer valuable lessons for sustainable river management in similar contexts globally.
Sensitivity Analysis for Effects of Multiple Exposures in the Presence of Unmeasured Confounding: Non‐Gaussian and Time‐to‐Event Outcomes
Authors: Lee Seungjae , Jeong Boram , Lee Donghwan , Lee Woojoo
Published: December 2024

In epidemiological studies, evaluating the health impacts stemming from multiple exposures is one of the important goals. To analyze the effects of multiple exposures on discrete or time‐to‐event health outcomes, researchers often employ generalized linear models, Cox proportional hazards models, and machine learning methods. However, observational studies are prone to unmeasured confounding factors, which can introduce the potential for substantial bias in the multiple exposure effects. To address this issue, we propose a novel outcome model‐based sensitivity analysis method for non‐Gaussian and time‐to‐event outcomes with multiple exposures. All the proposed sensitivity analysis problems are formulated as linear programming problems with quadratic and linear constraints, which can be solved efficiently. Analytic solutions are provided for some optimization problems, and a numerical study is performed to examine how the proposed sensitivity analysis behaves in finite samples. We illustrate the proposed method using two real data examples.
Understanding Resilience in Parents: Longitudinal Examination of Trait Resilience, Stressful Life Events, and Psychological Distress Symptoms—Insights From the FinnBrain Study
Authors: Mondolin Viivi , Karlsson Hasse , Perasto Laura , Tuulari Jetro J. , Karlsson Linnea , Kataja Eeva‐Leena
Published: December 2024

The study aimed to investigate the persistence or changes in trait resilience of parents over a 6‐year period and its association with stressful life events (SLEs). Furthermore, we explored the potential protective effect of trait resilience against exposure to stressful life events and their negative mental health consequences. The study population was drawn from the ongoing FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study and included 1388 mothers and 657 fathers who completed the CD‐RISC‐10 questionnaire during pregnancy and again 6 years later. Data collection involved self‐report questionnaires, including CD‐RISC‐10, EPDS, SCL‐90, and a questionnaire on SLEs. Data analysis utilised linear regression and statistical assessments. Parents in the highest or lowest quartile of resilience showed greater stability in resilience scores over time compared to those in the middle quartiles. Trait resilience during pregnancy was significantly associated with resilience 6 years later. SLEs did not moderate this association. Additionally, higher trait resilience consistently associated with lower levels of distress symptoms. The investigation of SLEs may require more nuance due to their event‐specific variability of impact. Furthermore, the study's sample size of individuals who experienced a high frequency of stressful life events was limited. Trait resilience appears to be rather stable, but also susceptible to some change. Because of its persistency and the positive impact on mental health it is worthwhile to be assessed as a part of comprehensive evaluation of parents' mental health.
A Design Strategy for Low‐Cost Single/Dual‐Band Photodetector: Bulk Heterojunction and Interface Engineering
Authors: Gong Weiqiang , Gao Feng , Bai Jinlong , Jiang Yan , Wang Tianyi , Yan Jun , Li Lin
Published: December 2024

Photodetectors (PDs) with band selection functions are highly desirable for the future complex environment. Currently, band‐selective PDs are typically realized by integrating various optical filters with broadband PDs or constructing heterojunction with multi‐photo‐absorbing layers. However, these methods cause increased manufacturing costs and device integration complexity. Here, a novel solution‐processed perovskite bulk heterojunction (BHJ) layer (MAPbI3:MA3Bi2I9) is developed as photo‐absorbing layer, and an effective interface engineering is proposed to selectively shield photo‐generated carriers in the BHJ. By regulating the bias voltage, the tunneling probability of photo‐generated carrier of MAPbI3 in the BHJ layer can be easily controlled, enabling band‐selective capability. The PD exhibits a superior photo‐response in the visible and near‐infrared region at the −0.3 V, with responsivity of 26.5 and 70.2 mA W−1 for 500 and 740 nm, respectively. But, at the 0.1 V, the PD responds only to the visible region with a photo‐response of 3.7 mA W−1 (500 nm) and maintains a high rejection ratio (R500 nm/R740 nm) of 28.5. This PD also exhibits a fast response speed (rise time: 220 µs, fall time: 240 µs). This work provides a novel strategy to fabricate a cost‐effective multifunctional photodetector for future advanced optoelectronic system.
Oxygen‐Assisted Tailoring of Evaporated PbS Hole Transport Layer for Highly Efficient Antimony Sulfide Solar Cells
Authors: Cai Jin‐Rui , Huang Zi‐Heng , Huang Wei‐Qin , Liu Ling‐Jie , Li Hu , Lin Li‐Mei , Zhan Ya‐Lu , Xia Ying‐Sen , Chen Shui‐Yuan , Chen Gui‐Lin
Published: December 2024

Antimony sulfide (Sb2S3) is regarded as one of the potential candidates for the next generation of photovoltaic absorber due to its excellent photoelectric properties. However, the selection and optimization of the hole transport layer (HTL) is still a major challenge for efficiency breakthrough of the Sb2S3 solar cells. In this work, lead sulfide (PbS) is deposited as a HTL of the Sb2S3 device by thermal evaporation for the first time. A high quality PbS films is conformally coated on the Sb2S3 rear surface by regulating the feeding amount, which thanks to the mass transfer mechanism of Ostwald ripening by scrutinizing the film growth kinetics. Meanwhile, both the valence band maximum (VBM) and Fermi levels are shifted down by a deliberate oxygen doping under a low vacuum ambient, which effectively reduces the offset between Sb2S3 and carbon electrode and then accelerates hole collection. Finally, it delivers an impressive photovoltaic conversion efficiency of 6.63% for carbon‐based Sb2S3 solar cells, coupled with a Voc of 779 mV, Jsc of 14.9 mA cm−2 and FF of 57.13%, which is 13% higher than that under high vacuum condition.
Effect of Different Molten Salts on Structure and Water Splitting Performance of Al‐Doped Fillet Polyhedral SrTiO3
Authors: Wang Chuyu , Jia Qibo , Zhang Xiaodong , Chen Xi , Wang Yang , Yu Gangqiang , Duan Dongping
Published: December 2024

Strontium titanium (SrTiO3) is a promising photocatalyst, but enhancing the separation, migration, and utilization of photocarriers, requires SrTiO3 with exposed anisotropic facets and minimal defect density. Here, we used NaCl and SrCl2 as fluxes to synthesize fillet polyhedral SrTiO3 particles, with Al3+ selectively adsorbed as the morphology regulator on high‐energy crystal facets. Notably, Al‐doped SrTiO3 synthesized in SrCl2 exhibits regular polyhedral morphology with {100}, {110}, and high‐index {112} facets, showing high surface activity, low internal defect density, and superior photocatalytic performance. The excellent performance is attributed to the spatial separation of photocarriers on different crystal facets. In situ photodeposition experiments confirmed that photogenerated electrons were concentrated on the {100} facets, while holes were concentrated on the {110} and {112} facets, effectively impeding recombination. After loading RhCrOx/CoOx, Al‐doped SrTiO3 synthesized in SrCl2 achieves a hydrogen evolution rate of 255 µmol h−1, 64 times higher than that of Al‐doped SrTiO3 synthesized in NaCl. Additionally, increasing amounts of cocatalysts further enhances the photocatalytic performance, with the average hydrogen evolution rate of SrTiO3 reaching 319 µmol h⁻¹, an apparent quantum yield of 3.5% at 365 nm, and a solar‐to‐ hydrogen value of 0.181%. This discovery offers new insights into designing efficient photocatalysts for hydrogen production.
Ultrafast Self‐Gelling, Adhesive, Anti‐Bacterial Coacervate‐Based Powders for Enhanced Hemostasis and Wound Healing
Authors: Zhou Hui , Kong Bin , Cheng Yi , Meng Si , Dong Haifeng , Qi Cheng , Kong Tiantian , Zhao Yuanjin , Liu Zhou
Published: December 2024

Uncontrolled hemorrhage, especially in non‐compressible and deep wounds, remains a critical issue in emergency and surgical care. Existing hemostatic powders often lack rapid gelation, mechanical robustness, and adequate adherence, increasing the risk of rebleeding under high‐pressure blood flow. To address these limitations, PQPP, a novel self‐gelling hemostatic material composed of polyacrylamide/quaternized chitosan coacervates and polydopamine nanoparticles is developed. PQPP can rapidly absorb blood within 2 s, undergoes in situ gelation, and forms a robust adhesive hydrogel to effectively seal wounds. Its efficacy stems from the electrostatic adsorption and catechol functional groups of polydopamine nanoparticles. Importantly, PQPP exhibits high burst pressure resistance, excellent blood cell aggregation capability, outstanding biocompatibility, and antibacterial properties. Comprehensive in vitro and in vivo studies, including cytotoxicity and blood compatibility tests, as well as trials in mouse liver, heart, and vascular injury models, demonstrate PQPP's superior hemostatic performance under high‐pressure conditions without causing inflammation. With its rapid gelation, robust adhesion, and mechanical integrity, PQPP represents a promising hemostatic material for immediate wound management in surgical and emergency applications.
Renovating Stability and Performance in Magnetorheological Fluids Through Particle Size and Shape Anisotropy
Authors: Kim Hyong‐Jun , Seo Yongsok
Published: December 2024

Magnetorheological (MR) fluids are smart materials consisting of magnetic particles in a non‐magnetic medium, undergoing phase transitions under a magnetic field to generate yield stress. However, sedimentation and limited particle content hinder their industrial application, balancing high yield stress with stability. This study introduces an innovative MR slurry using Sendust particles, achieving superior yield stress and sedimentation stability compared to traditional systems. Flake Sendust particles demonstrate enhanced yield stress at low magnetic fields due to their lower demagnetization factor, outperforming bulk Sendust despite lower packing volumes. These findings emphasize the critical role of particle morphology in optimizing MR fluid performance. The slurry maintains its magnetorheological properties while offering tunable yield stress, making it suitable for diverse applications. This research addresses traditional trade‐offs in MR fluid design, paving the way for advanced MR slurries in sensors, actuators, energy harvesters, haptic devices, and biomedical systems.
Treatment of a chronic tarsometatarsal luxation in a cat by partial tarsal arthrodesis using biaxial plating
Authors: Philips Ryan G. , Jerram Richard M.
Published: December 2024

A 2‐year‐old, male, neutered, Maine Coon crossbreed cat, weighing 4.2 kg, presented to a referral veterinary hospital for an open tarsometatarsal fracture‐luxation of the right pelvic limb and a coxofemoral joint luxation of the left pelvic limb. The cat had been missing for 7 weeks before being recovered with multiple orthopaedic injuries. The cat underwent surgical treatment for the coxofemoral luxation with femoral head and neck ostectomy and treatment of the tarsometatarsal fracture‐luxation with partial tarsal arthrodesis utilising biaxial plating. Explantation of the lateral partial tarsal arthrodesis plate occurred 4 months later due to an intermittent seropurulent draining tract associated with the implant. The owners reported that the cat had returned to normal activity 6 months later, with no evidence of lameness in either pelvic limb or re‐development of a draining sinus. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case report of partial tarsal arthrodesis utilising biaxial plating in a cat.
Magnetohydrodynamics of couple stress Casson fluid flow in a channel with stretching wall in the presence of dissipative and radiative heat transfer
Authors: Kumar Premful , Nandkeolyar Raj
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the unsteady magnetohydrodynamic flow of a couple stress Casson fluid between two parallel sheets where the heat transfer mechanism is incorporated with the influences of heat radiation, viscous dissipation, and Joule heating. The fluid flow is induced due to bi‐directional stretching of the lower sheet of the channel. The mathematical model of the physical problem is governed by highly nonlinear coupled partial differential equations with boundary conditions that are then transformed into highly nonlinear ordinary differential equations with boundary conditions using well‐defined similarity variables. The authors have used the well‐known computational technique called the spectral successive linearization method (SLM) to solve the obtained ordinary differential equations subject to the boundary conditions. Graphs and tables show the effects of non‐dimensional parameters on the important physical quantities such as the velocity and temperature profiles, and coefficients of skin‐frictions and heat transfer. The quadratic regression method is used to perform statistical analysis of Nusselt number and skin friction coefficients. The present investigation has significant applications in different problems of biomedical engineering, clinical sciences, industrial manufacturing processes, and so forth.
The effect of vitamin D3 supplementation on the incidence of type 2 diabetes in healthy older adults not at high risk for diabetes (FIND): a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Virtanen Jyrki K. , Hantunen Sari , Kallio Niko , Lamberg-Allardt Christel , Manson JoAnn E. , Nurmi Tarja , Pihlajamäki Jussi , Uusitupa Matti , Voutilainen Ari , Tuomainen Tomi-Pekka
Published: December 2024

Aims/hypothesis

Vitamin D insufficiency is associated with an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes, but evidence from randomised trials on the benefits of vitamin D supplementation is limited, especially for average-risk populations. The Finnish Vitamin D Trial (FIND) investigated the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation at two different doses on the incidence of type 2 diabetes in a generally healthy older adult population.

Methods

FIND was a 5 year randomised placebo-controlled, parallel-arm trial among 2271 male and female participants aged ≥60 years and ≥65 years, respectively, from a general Finnish population who were free of CVD or cancer and did not use diabetes medications. The study had three arms: placebo, 1600 IU/day of vitamin D3 or 3200 IU/day of vitamin D3. A non-study group statistician carried out sex-stratified simple randomisation in a 1:1:1 ratio, based on computerised random number generation. The participants, investigators and study staff were masked to group assignment. National health registries were used to collect event data. A representative subcohort of 505 participants had more detailed in-person investigations at months 0, 6, 12 and 24.

Results

During the mean follow-up of 4.2 years, there were 38 (5.0%), 31 (4.2%) and 36 (4.7%) type 2 diabetes events in the placebo (n=760), 1600 IU/day vitamin D3 (n=744; vs placebo: HR 0.81; 95% CI 0.50, 1.30) and 3200 IU/day vitamin D3 (n=767; vs placebo: HR 0.92, 95% CI 0.58, 1.45) arms, respectively (p-trend=0.73). When the two vitamin D3 arms were combined and compared with the placebo arm, the HR was 0.86 (95% CI 0.58, 1.29). In the analyses stratified by BMI (<25 kg/m2 [n=813, number of type 2 diabetes events=12], 25–30 kg/m2 [n=1032, number of events=38], ≥30 kg/m2 [n=422, number of events=54]), the HRs in the combined vitamin D3 arms vs the placebo were 0.43 (95% CI 0.14, 1.34), 0.97 (0.50, 1.91) and 1.00 (0.57, 1.75), respectively (p-interaction <0.001). In the subcohort, the mean (SD) baseline serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3) concentration was 74.5 (18.1) nmol/l. After 12 months, the concentrations were 72.6 (17.7), 99.3 (20.8) and 120.9 (22.1) nmol/l in the placebo, 1600 IU/day vitamin D3 and 3200 IU/day vitamin D3 arms, respectively. In the subcohort, no differences were observed in changes in plasma glucose or insulin concentrations, BMI or waist circumference during the 24 month follow-up (p values ≥0.19).

Conclusion/interpretation

Among generally healthy older adults who are not at high risk for diabetes and who have serum 25(OH)D3 levels that are sufficient for bone health, vitamin D3 supplementation did not significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01463813.

Graphical Abstract