bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transparent electromagnetic interference shielding materials using MXene
Authors: Deng Yanli , Chen Yaqing , Liu Wei , Wu Lili , Wang Zhou , Xiao Dan , Meng Decheng , Jiang Xingguo , Liu Jiurong , Zeng Zhihui , Wu Na
Published: June 2024

With the rapid advancement of terahertz technologies, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials are needed to ensure secure electromagnetic environments. Enormous efforts have been devoted to achieving highly efficient EMI shielding films by enhancing flexibility, lightweight, mechanical robustness, and high shielding efficiency. However, the consideration of the optical properties of these shielding materials is still in its infancy. By incorporating transparency, visual information from protected systems can be preserved for monitoring interior working conditions, and the optical imperceptibility allows nonoffensive and easy cover of shielding materials for both device and biology. There are many materials that can be applied to transparent EMI shields. In particular, two‐dimensional transition metal carbide/nitrides (MXenes), possessing the advantages of superior conductivity, optical properties, favorable flexibility, and facile processibility, have become a great candidate. This work reviews the recent research on developing highly efficient and optically transparent EMI shields in a comprehensive way. Materials from MXenes, indium tin oxide, metal, carbon, and conductive polymers are covered, with a focus on the employment of MXene‐based composites in transparent EMI shielding. The prospects and challenges for the future development of MXene‐based transparent EMI shields are discussed. This work aims to promote the development of high‐performance, optically transparent EMI shields for broader applications by leveraging MXenes.
Design of an Acidic pH‐Activated NIR Fluorescent Convertible Rhodamine−Hemicyanine Probe‐Peptide Conjugate for Living Cancer Cell Active Targeted Selective Tracking of Lysosomes
Authors: Mukherjee Ayan , Kar Samiran , Das Shreya , Bera Tapas , Mondal Aniruddha , Sengupta Arunima , Guha Samit
Published: June 2024

We have synthesized an acidic pH‐activatable dual targeting ratiometric fluorescent probe‐peptide conjugate using the SPPS protocol on Rink amide AM resin. Living carcinoma cell specific active targeting, successive cell penetration, and selective staining of lysosomes are accomplished. Real‐time monitoring of lysosomes, 3D, and multicolor cancer cell imaging are also attained. The de novo design consists of the integration of multifunctionality into a single molecular scaffold, e. g., RGDS peptide residue to target cancer cell surface overexpressed receptor αVβ3 integrin, live‐cell penetrating organic unsymmetrical rhodamine‐hemicyanine chromophore comprising a lysosome targeting morpholine group, and an acidic pH openable spiro‐lactam ring for a visible‐to‐NIR switchable ratiometric response. Water‐soluble fluorescent probe‐peptide conjugate exhibits intramolecular spirolactamization at basic pH through Arg amide N. The visible spirolactam state predominantly exists at physiological and basic pH and can be switched to the highly conjugated NIR open amide state (λem=735 nm) through spiro‐lactam ring opening triggered by acidic pH with a huge bathochromic shift (Δλabs=336 nm, ΔλFL=265 nm). Moreover, pH‐sensitive ratiometric optical switching is achieved. This in situ acidic cancer cell lysosome activatable multifunctional fluorophore‐peptide conjugate shows augmented molar absorptivity, enhanced quantum yield, and improved fluorescence lifetime at acidic lysosomal pH; negligible cytotoxicity; and dual targeted ratiometric imaging capability of living cancer cell selective lysosomes with a pKa value of 5.1.
Effect of Fluorine Segments in Fluoropolymer Matrix on the Properties of Gel Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Chen Wenting , Hai Feng , Gao Xin , Yi Yikun , Guo Jingyu , Xue Weicheng , Tang Wei , Zhang Shanqing , Li Mingtao
Published: June 2024

Polymer quasi‐solid electrolytes have been paid widely attention in account of their outstanding advantages in safety, flexibility, viscoelasticity and film formation. Fluoropolymer is used as matrix of gel electrolytes not only has high electrochemical stability, but also facilitates the dissociation of lithium salts owning to the strong electron‐absorbing C−F groups, which makes it a very promising choice for the further development of gel electrolytes. Due to the different sites of C−F bonds, their activity is also diverse, which results in the difference of the mobility of lithium ions and the LiF composition of SEI film on the surface of lithium metal anode. As a result, distinct fluorine‐containing gel polymer electrolytes are prepared by in‐situ polymerization of two different monomers, HFMA and TFMA. Compared with −CF3 on terminal group in TFMA, the gel electrolyte polymerized with HFMA whose C−F group with stronger electronegativity is at the intermediate carbon site, as polymer matrix has better performance. The ionic conductivity achieves 7.02×10−3 S cm−1 at room temperature, and the assembled batteries have a capacity retention rate of 91 % after 200 cycles of 1 C. Our research has laid a solid theoretical foundation for the further development of quasi‐solid electrolyte.
Effectiveness of Ultrasound Therapy, TheraBite Device, Masticatory Muscle Exercises, and Stabilization Splint for the Treatment of Masticatory Myofascial Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Salloum Kenaz , Karkoutly Mawia , Haddad Ibrahim , Nassar Jihad Abou
Published: June 2024

Background

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a particular type of temporomandibular joint disorder. Research findings comparing various treatment approaches are scarce and controversial. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effectiveness of ultrasound therapy, stabilization splint, TheraBite device, and masticatory muscle exercises in reducing pain intensity and improving mandibular mobility in patients with MPS.

Methods

It was a single‐blind, randomized, parallel‐group, active‐controlled trial that took place between April 2023 and October 2023 at the Department of Fixed Prosthodontics, Damascus University. Patients older than 18 years old with myofascial pain accompanied by limited jaw opening and pain lasting for at least 6 months were included. Eighty patients were randomly assigned into four groups using online randomization software: ultrasound therapy, stabilization splint, TheraBite device, and masticatory muscle exercises. Only outcome assessors were masked to treatment allocation. The exercise regimen was the exercise program for patients with TMD. The following primary outcome measures were considered at the baseline (t0), at the first (t1), second (t2), and fourth (t3) week of treatment, and at the second (t4) and fifth (t5) month of follow‐up: pain intensity using the visual analogue scale, maximum interincisal opening, right lateral movement, and left lateral movement measured in millimeters.

Results

The pain level changed from severe to mild at t3 in ultrasound therapy, stabilization splint, and TheraBite device groups. In the masticatory muscle exercises group, it changed to moderate, with a significant difference between ultrasound therapy (p = 0.012) and stabilization splint (p = 0.013) groups. In addition, the mandibular mobility continued to improve at the subsequent follow‐up periods (t4 and t5).

Conclusions

All therapies are equally effective after 5‐month follow‐up. However, ultrasound therapy and stabilization splints have the benefit of achieving rapid improvement.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN20833186.
Technology Readiness and Emerging Prospects of Coupled Catalytic Reactions for Sustainable Chemical Value Chains
Authors: Preikschas Phil , Pérez‐Ramírez Javier
Published: June 2024

Transitioning from both the direct and indirect use of fossil fuels to the renewable and sustainable resources of the near future demands a focal shift in catalysis research – from investigating catalytic reactions in isolation to developing coupled reactions for modern chemical value chains. In this Perspective, we discuss the status and emerging prospects of coupled catalytic reactions across various scales and provide key examples. Besides being a sustainable and essential alternative to current fossil‐based processes, the coupling of catalytic reactions offers novel and scalable pathways to value‐added chemicals. By emphasizing the specific requirements and challenges arising from coupled reactions, we aim to identify and underscore research needs that are critical to expedite their development and to fully unlock their potential for chemical and fuel production.
Damage‐informed ground motion and semi‐empirical fragility assessment
Authors: Iervolino Iunio , Rosti Annalisa , Penna Andrea , Giorgio Massimiliano
Published: June 2024

Calibrating parametric fragility curves via empirical damage data is one of the standard approaches to derive seismic structural vulnerability models. Fragilities based on empirical data require the characterization of the ground motion (GM) intensity at the building sites in the area affected by the earthquake producing the observed damages. This is commonly conducted via ShakeMap, that is, a map of the expected values of a Gaussian random field (GRF) of the logarithms of a GM intensity measure conditional to magnitude, location, and possibly a set of recordings of the earthquake. Once that intensity and damage data at the same sites are available, the typical approach calibrates a two‐parameter fragility model. However, ShakeMap estimates are affected by uncertainty deriving from that of the GM model used to characterize it. Furthermore, such an uncertainty can be reduced by building damage data, which provide information on the shaking intensity at the sites where damage is observed. It is shown herein that if this uncertainty is not addressed, also considering the shaking information provided by damage, the estimates of the fragility parameters obtained using a median ShakeMap only can be biased, and a recommended maximum likelihood estimation procedure – which exploits the expectation maximization algorithm – is provided. These arguments are illustrated via an application considering damage data from the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake in central Italy.
Weighted compositional functional data analysis for modeling and forecasting life‐table death counts
Authors: Lin Shang Han , Haberman Steven
Published: June 2024

Age‐specific life‐table death counts observed over time are examples of densities. Nonnegativity and summability are constraints that sometimes require modifications of standard linear statistical methods. The centered log‐ratio transformation presents a mapping from a constrained to a less constrained space. With a time series of densities, forecasts are more relevant to the recent data than the data from the distant past. We introduce a weighted compositional functional data analysis for modeling and forecasting life‐table death counts. Our extension assigns higher weights to more recent data and provides a modeling scheme easily adapted for constraints. We illustrate our method using age‐specific Swedish life‐table death counts from 1751 to 2020. Compared with their unweighted counterparts, the weighted compositional data analytic method improves short‐term point and interval forecast accuracies. The improved forecast accuracy could help actuaries improve the pricing of annuities and setting of reserves.
Evaluating the efficiency of ELISA, monoplex and multiplex probe‐based real‐time reverse‐transcription PCR assays in the detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 (COVID‐19) and influenza A and B viruses: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mosadegh Mehrdad , Jalili Shirin , Pourmand Mohammad Reza , Erfani Yousef , Panji Mohammad
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

The current study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assay and monoplex and multiplex real‐time reverse‐transcription PCR (rRT‐PCR) in the detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and influenza A and B viruses (Flu A and Flu B).

Methods

The SARS‐CoV‐2 ‐specific IgG and IgM antibodies, as well as, Flu A (H1N1 and H3N2 serotypes) and Flu B virus antibodies were determined by ELISA assay. The one‐step qRT‐PCR method was used to detect the SARS‐CoV‐2 in nasopharyngeal swab samples. Furthermore, the presence of Flu A and B viruses was evaluated using probe‐based RT‐PCR. Simultaneous detection of SARS‐CoV‐2, Flu A and B viruses was performed by multiplex rRT‐PCR assay.

Results

SARS CoV‐2 IgM and IgG antibodies were detected in 33.3% and 58.3% of patients, respectively. In contrast, the SARS CoV‐2 genome was detected in 50% of patients using the one‐step monoplex RT‐PCR assay. Flu A serotypes H1N1 and H3N2 were found in 16.7% and 8.3% of patients. Probe‐based RT‐PCR revealed that 39.3% of patients were positive for the Flu A virus. Multiplex rRT‐PCR detect the SARS‐CoV‐2, Flu A, and Flu B in 50%, 39.3%, and 19% of samples, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of multiplex rRT‐PCR assay in comparison to monoplex RT‐PCR were 100% and 55%, respectively. Coinfection with SARS‐CoV‐2, Flu A, and Flu B viruses was found in 9.5% of patients.

Conclusion

Multiplex rRT‐PCR can be used as a repaid, cost‐effective and suitable tool for molecular surveillance of SARS‐CoV‐2 and Flu A/B viruses.
Prediction of wound healing status following dental extraction using Adapted‐University of Connecticut osteonecrosis numerical scale: A retrospective study
Authors: Suryani Isti R. , Shujaat Sohaib , That Minh T. , Coucke Wim , Jacobs Reinhilde
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

There is a scarcity of evidence concerning the use of a prognostic instrument for predicting normal healing, delayed healing, and medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) occurrence following tooth extraction in medically compromised patients. The present study aimed to predict healing outcomes following tooth extraction in medically compromised patients using an Adapted‐University of Connecticut osteonecrosis numerical scale (A‐UCONNS).

Methods

The digital medical records of medically compromised patients were reviewed, who underwent tooth extraction. The A‐UCONNS parameters included the initial pathological condition, dental procedures, comorbidities (smoking habits, type and duration of medication, and type of intervention), and administered antiresorptive (AR) medications. Each parameter was assigned a different weight, and the scores were then accumulated and classified into three categories: minimal risk (less than 10), moderate risk (10−15), and significant risk (16 or more). The patient's healing status was categorized as normal healing, delayed healing, or MRONJ.

Results

A total of 353 male patients (mean age: 67.4 years) were recruited from a pool of 3977 patients, where 12.46% of patients had delayed wound healing, and 18.69% developed MRONJ. The median A‐UCONNS scores for MRONJ were higher based on initial pathology, comorbidity, and AR drugs compared to normal or delayed healing. In addition, a significant relationship existed between A‐UCONNS and healing outcomes (p < 0.05), with a unit increase in A‐UCONNS associated with 1.347 times higher odds of experiencing MRONJ compared to normal healing. In contrast, a low score was linked to an increased likelihood of normal wound healing.

Conclusion

The A‐UCONNS could act as a promising tool for predicting wound healing outcomes. It can provide clinicians the ability to pinpoint patients at high risk and allow tailoring of patient‐specific strategies for improving healing outcomes following tooth extraction.
The impact of COVID‐19 on the clinical course and outcome of patients with cirrhosis: An observational study
Authors: Shaikh Obaid S. , Yan Peng , Rogal Shari , Butt Adeel A.
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Severe outcomes of COVID‐19 are associated with advancing age and comorbidities. The specific aim of our study was to determine the impact of COVID‐19 on the clinical course and outcome of patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

We retrieved data from VA national repository and identified patients tested for SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA who had cirrhosis. Each virus positive patient was propensity‐matched with virus negative subjects by demographics and comorbidities. Primary endpoint was death within 30 days of COVID‐19 diagnosis and secondary endpoint was hospitalization within 14 days.

Results

Among 1,115,037 individuals tested for SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA, 31,680 had cirrhosis. Of those patients, 4456 virus positive patients were propensity‐matched with 8752 virus negative subjects. In this cohort of 13,208, median age was 67 years and 95% were male. Most had multiple comorbidities. Alcohol use, hepatitis C and MASH were the dominant etiologies of cirrhosis. At baseline, median MELD was 6% and 21% had hepatic decompensation. Advanced age was the most significant determinant of hospitalization and mortality. Comorbidities, alcohol use and MELD increased the likelihood of hospitalization whereas SARS‐CoV‐2 positivity had lower Day‐14 hospitalization hazard. MELD was associated with higher mortality hazard whereas vaccination reduced the hazard of hospitalization and death. SARS‐CoV‐2 positivity increased the hazard of death at Day‐30 by 72% and at Day‐90 by 26%.

Conclusion

Although patients with cirrhosis who developed COVID‐19 were less likely to be hospitalized, they were more likely to die within 30 days compared to their virus negative counterparts. Vaccination was effective in reducing both hospitalization and death.
Testing for differences in survey‐based density expectations: A compositional data approach
Authors: Dovern Jonas , Glas Alexander , Kenny Geoff
Published: June 2024

We propose to treat survey‐based density expectations as compositional data when testing either for heterogeneity in density forecasts across different groups of agents or for changes over time. Monte Carlo simulations show that the proposed test has more power relative to both a bootstrap approach based on the KLIC and an approach that involves multiple testing for differences of individual parts of the density. In addition, the test is computationally much faster than the KLIC‐based one, which relies on simulations, and allows for comparisons across multiple groups. Using density expectations from the ECB Survey of Professional Forecasters and the US Survey of Consumer Expectations, we show the usefulness of the test in detecting possible changes in density expectations over time and across different types of forecasters.
Measuring HBV pregenomic RNA may be a potential biomarker to determine HBV functional cure in HIV/HBV‐co‐infected patients with HBsAg loss
Authors: Gu Fei , Zeng Kun , Lan Xianglong , He Yaozu , Li Feng , Tang Xiaoping , Hu Fengyu , Li Linghua
Published: June 2024

Functional cure of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an optimal treatment goal for chronic hepatitis B, with the loss of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) being a crucial indicator. However, the adequacy of HBsAg loss for evaluating functional cure of HBV in patients co‐infected with HBV/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains controversial. In this study, we measured HBV pregenomic RNA (pgRNA), a potential biomarker that correlates with covalently closed circular DNA, in the frozen plasma of 98 patients with HBsAg loss from a large HIV/HBV co‐infection cohort in Guangzhou, China. HBV pgRNA was still detected in 43.9% (44/98) of the patients, suggesting active HBV replication in individuals with HBsAg loss. Our observations imply that HBsAg loss may not be a reliable predictor of HBV functional cure in cases of HIV/HBV co‐infection.
Altitudinal Impact on Phytochemical Composition and Mycorrhizal Diversity of Taxus Contorta Griff in the Temperate Forest of Shimla District
Authors: Chauhan Saurav , Dhalaria Rajni , Ghoshal Shankharoop , Kanwal K.S. , Verma Rachna
Published: June 2024

Taxus contorta (family Taxaceae) is a native plant of temperate region of western Himalaya. The current study investigated the effect of altitude on the phytochemical composition and mycorrhizal diversity, associated with distribution of T. contorta in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh, India. Quantitative phytochemical analysis of the leaf extracts indicated that alkaloid levels decreased with altitude, with the highest value in Himri's methanol extracts (72.79 ± 1.08 mg/g) while phenol content increased with altitude, peaking in Nankhari's methanol extracts (118.83 ± 5.90 mg/g). Saponin content was higher in methanol extracts (78.13 ± 1.66 mg/g in Nankhari, 68.06 ± 1.92 mg/g in Pabbas, and 56.32 ± 1.93 mg/g in Himri). Flavonoid levels were notably higher in chloroform extracts, particularly in Nankhari (219.97 ± 2.99 mg/g), and positively correlated with altitude. Terpenoids were higher in chloroform extracts at Himri (11.34 ± 0.10 mg/g) and decreased with altitude. Taxol content showed minimal variation between solvents and altitudes (4.53–6.98 ppm), while rutin was only detected in methanol extracts (1.31–1.46 ppm). Mycorrhizal spore counts in T. contorta's rhizosphere varied with altitude: highest at Himri (77.83 ± 2.20 spores/50 g soil), decreasing to Pabbas (68.06 ± 1.96 spores/50 g soil) and lowest at Nankhari (66.00 ± 2.77 spores/50 g soil), with 17 AMF species identified overall, showing significant altitudinal influence on spore density. The rhizosphere of T. contorta was shown to be dominated by the Glomus species. The rhizospheric soil of the plant was found to be slightly acidic. Organic carbon and available potassium content decreased contrasting with increasing available nitrogen and phosphorus with altitude. Correlation data showed strong negative links between organic carbon (−0.83), moderate positive for nitrogen (0.46) and phosphorus (0.414), and moderate negative for potassium (−0.56) with the altitude. This study provides a comprehensive insight into changes in phytochemical constituents, mycorrhizal diversity and soil composition of T. contorta along a range of altitude.
Bioactive Streptomycetes: A Powerful Tool to Synthesize Diverse Nanoparticles With Multifarious Properties
Authors: Anjum Muhammad Sultan , Khaliq Shazia , Ashraf Neelma , Anwar Munir Ahmad , Akhtar Kalsoom
Published: June 2024

Nanobiotechnology has gained significant attention due to its capacity to generate substantial benefits through the integration of microbial biotechnology and nanotechnology. Among microbial organisms, Actinomycetes, particularly the prominent genus Streptomycetes, have garnered attention for their prolific production of antibiotics. Streptomycetes have emerged as pivotal contributors to the discovery of a substantial number of antibiotics and play a dominant role in combating infectious diseases on a global scale. Despite the noteworthy progress achieved through the development and utilization of antibiotics to combat infectious pathogens, the prevalence of infectious diseases remains a prominent cause of mortality worldwide, particularly among the elderly and children. The emergence of antibiotic resistance among pathogens has diminished the efficacy of antibiotics in recent decades. Nevertheless, Streptomycetes continue to demonstrate their potential by producing bioactive metabolites for the synthesis of nanoparticles. Streptomycetes are instrumental in producing nanoparticles with diverse bioactive characteristics, including antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and antitumor properties. Biologically synthesized nanoparticles have exhibited a meaningful reduction in the impact of antibiotic resistance, providing resources for the development of new and effective drugs. This review succinctly outlines the significant applications of Streptomycetes as a crucial element in nanoparticle synthesis, showcasing their potential for diverse and enhanced beneficial applications.
Diagnosis and management of eosinophilic esophagitis in children: An update from the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN)
Authors: Amil‐Dias Jorge , Oliva Salvatore , Papadopoulou Alexandra , Thomson Mike , Gutiérrez‐Junquera Carolina , Kalach Nicolas , Orel Rok , Auth Marcus Karl‐Heinz , Nijenhuis‐Hendriks Danielle , Strisciuglio Caterina , Bauraind Olivia , Chong Sonny , Ortega Gloria Dominguez , Férnandez Sonia Férnandez , Furman Mark , Garcia‐Puig Roger , Gottrand Frederic , Homan Matjaz , Huysentruyt Koen , Kostovski Aco , Otte Sebastian , Rea Francesca , Roma Eleftheria , Romano Claudio , Tzivinikos Christos , Urbonas Vaidotas , Velde Saskia Vande , Zangen Tsili , Zevit Noam
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the esophagus characterized by symptoms of esophageal dysfunction and histologically by predominantly eosinophilic infiltration of the squamous epithelium. European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) published a guideline in 2014; however, the rapid evolution of knowledge about pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, and therapeutic options have made an update necessary.

Methods

A consensus group of pediatric gastroenterologists from the ESPGHAN Working Group on Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Diseases (ESPGHAN EGID WG) reviewed the recent literature and proposed statements and recommendations on 28 relevant questions about EoE. A comprehensive electronic literature search was performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases from 2014 to 2022. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system was used to assess the quality of evidence and formulate recommendations.

Results

A total of 52 statements based on the available evidence and 44 consensus‐based recommendations are available. A revision of the diagnostic protocol, options for initial drug treatment, and the new concept of simplified empiric elimination diets are now available. Biologics are becoming a part of the potential armamentarium for refractory EoE, and systemic steroids may be considered as the initial treatment for esophageal strictures before esophageal dilation. The importance and assessment of quality of life and a planned transition to adult medical care are new areas addressed in this guideline.

Conclusion

Research in recent years has led to a better understanding of childhood EoE. This guideline incorporates the new findings and provides a practical guide for clinicians treating children diagnosed with EoE.
Preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy in pediatric bariatric surgery: A summary of the literature
Authors: Liman Andrew , Koh Linda , Barakat Monique , Abu El Haija Marwa
Published: June 2024

Our objective was to summarize the available literature on the use of preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and its impact on management and/or postoperative outcomes in pediatric patients undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery. We performed a search using PubMed in February 2023 for articles examining EGD and any clinical correlation in pediatric patients undergoing bariatric surgery. Search results were manually reviewed and included in the study if they examined findings of EGD done prior to bariatric surgery and were excluded if they were not primarily done in pediatric or adolescent patients. Our search yielded 549 distinct articles, with a total of four articles remaining after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. All four studies were retrospective. A total of 244 patients were studied, with an age range of 9–25 years. Of the patients whose respective findings were reported, 21/150 patients (14%) had esophagitis, 55/150 (37%) had gastritis, 55/244 (23%) had Helicobacter pylori, and 18/150 (12%) had duodenitis. There were a total of 60 findings that changed medical management, and one that changed surgical management. A high proportion of positive EGD findings that changed medical management was evident, and one study suggested that mucosal inflammation may be a prognostic indicator for postoperative weight loss. However, there is a paucity of data examining the utility of routine EGD prior to bariatric surgery, specifically in pediatric patients, and more studies are therefore needed to construct the evidence basis for guidelines.
The impact of donating milk on the health of milk donors and their infants: A systematic review and meta‐analysis protocol
Authors: Berg Alaina , Rani Uzma , Colaizy Tarah , Smith Abigail , Evans James , Murad Mohammad H. , Bhutta Zulfiqar A. , Imdad Aamer
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Breast milk is the recommended nutritional source for newborns and has been associated with decreased morbidity in low‐birth‐weight and preterm infants. In situations where breast milk is not available, donor breast milk is an alternative. Milk banking is becoming increasingly common worldwide to meet this need. Although the benefits of donor breast milk for the recipient infant are well established, the health impact on the breast milk donor and the infant of the breast milk donor is an area of current research. We aim to synthesize and evaluate the available evidence regarding the impact of donating breast milk on the health, lactation, and well‐being of the breast milk donor, and the health and growth of the infant of the breast milk donor.

Methods

We will search electronic databases, grey literature, and the websites of relevant international organizations. We will include studies that involve lactating women and their infants, healthy or with health conditions, who donate breast milk, without restrictions on study date, language, or study design. If sufficient homogeneity exists between studies, we will complete meta‐analyses. We will evaluate the risk of bias using the Risk of Bias tool or the Cochrane Risk of Bias in Non‐Randomized Studies tool. We will evaluate the overall certainty of the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach.

Conclusion

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we will summarize the current literature regarding the effects of human milk donation on human milk donors and their infants.
SEM/Raman spectroscopy of clathrites as analogs of authigenic carbonates in ocean worlds
Authors: de Dios‐Cubillas Ana , Prieto‐Ballesteros Olga , Nachtnebel Manfred , Fitzek Harald , Schröttner Hartmuth
Published: June 2024

There is evidence from the near‐infrared observations of space missions of the presence of carbonates on the surface of several ocean worlds. However, their genesis remains unresolved. We investigate the hypothesis that these carbonates may be in the form of clathrites assuming that clathrate hydrates are stable phases in the crust and ocean of these ocean worlds. In order to support this, we studied a sample of a potential clathrite from the Hydrate Ridge cold seep (Cascadia Subduction Zone), the carbonate rock fossil of clathrate hydrates, as a terrestrial analogue. We characterised the mineralogy and texture of the sample by using a coupled confocal Raman microscope and scanning electron microscopy instrument with the aim of identifying possible geo‐ and biosignatures, which could be relevant for future missions of exploration to ocean worlds and Mars. Our results show that aragonite is the dominant mineral phase in the clathrite sample, but Mg‐calcite and dolomite were also identified. These three carbonates constitute a pattern related to clathrate hydrate formation and dissociation processes. Dolomite was defined as a biosignature of gas hydrate microbiomes because it was integrated within Mg‐calcite grains precipitated after clathrate hydrate dissociation. Nevertheless, no spectral changes were observed in Raman bands of carbonate minerals that would indicate the influence of clathrate hydrates in their genesis. We also observed that Raman band positions of the associated framboidal pyrites are a characteristic signature of the associated framboid‐like texture because its potential as biosignature may only be attributed by biochemical analysis.
Cultivating young philanthropists: Children, philanthropy and wealth transfer
Authors: Fairbairn Fiona
Published: June 2024

This article on raising wealthy children to be philanthropic is prompted by the £5.5Tn wealth transfer predicted to take place in the United Kingdom over the coming decades. The impending wealth transfer presents an unprecedented income opportunity for a charity sector faced with increasing societal needs and declining statutory income. Drawing on the premise that engaging children in philanthropic activities can lead to higher participation levels in adulthood, this paper examines how children from wealthy households engage with philanthropy at home and school. A mixed‐methods approach involving research with and not on children is used to explore what kind of philanthropic citizen these children are becoming. Two surveys, five focus groups, and four interviews were used to generate insights from 222 ‘financially secure’ 9 to 11‐year‐old children, 113 parents and four teachers. The study, drawing on models of citizenship, finds a cohort of children exhibiting characteristics aligned with the concept of ‘personally responsible’ philanthropic citizens. This outcome is considered desirable for promoting charitable giving among a demographic likely to have the means and resources to give generously in adulthood. However, the findings suggest a lack of opportunities for children to acquire the knowledge and skills that enable informed giving decisions or the spaces in which to critically engage with charities, causes, and the issues that create the need for philanthropy in the first place. The research supports calls in the literature for a more participatory and social‐justice‐oriented approach to philanthropic education and participation in schools. The findings, of interest to scholars and practitioners alike, address a gap in empirical evidence regarding children and philanthropy in the United Kingdom.
Exploration of the potential of a boosted sterile insect technique to control fruit flies in mango orchards
Authors: Diouf Esther Gnilane , Brévault Thierry , Ndiaye Saliou , Piou Cyril
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

An innovative version of the sterile insect technique (SIT) for pest control, called boosted SIT, relies on the use of sterile males coated with a biocide to control a target wild pest population of the same species. The objective of the present study was to assess the relevance of such technology to control the fruit fly Bactrocera dorsalis and fruit losses in mango orchards using. An agent‐based simulation model named BOOSTIT was used to explore the reduction of fruit losses thank to sterile male fruit flies control and economic benefits according to different strategies of sterile male release. The simulation considered a landscape of 30.25 ha made up of four mango orchards.

RESULTS

The SIT and the boosted SIT reduced fruit losses when releases were made before the mango fruiting period. According to model simulations, releases should be performed at least seven times at 2‐week intervals and with a sterile/wild male ratio of at least 10:1. Considering the benefit/cost ratio (BCR), few releases should be done with a late start date. The BCR showed economic gains from the two control methods, the number of saved fruits and BCR being higher for SIT.

CONCLUSION

Our simulations showed that SIT would have better results than the boosted SIT to contribute to an effective control of Bactrocera dorsalis at the scale of a small landscape. We highlight the need for laboratory studies of other types of pathogen to find a suitable one with higher incubation time and lower cost. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Optical and Electronic Properties of p‐type Transparent Conductive Oxide Cs2Pb2O3: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Chang Fei‐Yu , Gao Juan , Jiao Zhen , Liu Qi‐Jun , Luo Ying‐Xi , Liu Zheng‐Tang
Published: June 2024

In this article, the properties of Cs2Pb2O3 have been investigated using the first‐principles method. It covers the relevant structural, stability, electronic properties, conductivity, and optical properties. The phonon spectra and elastic properties analysis show the stability of Cs2Pb2O3, band structure, density of states, charge density diagram, and bond populations are analyzed to show the electronic structure of the system more clearly. The calculated results indicate that considering spin‐orbit coupling (SOC) will reduce the band gap. The charge density diagram and bond populations indicate that the Cs–O bond is mainly ionic and the Pb–O bond is mainly covalent and partially ionic. The analysis
of optical properties indicates good transparency, and the calculated hole mobility is 10.88 cm2 V−1 s−1, suggesting that it is a promising p‐type conductive oxide.
The ‘LSVEC problem’ for the Vienna Peedee belemnite carbon isotope‐delta scale
Authors: Dunn Philip J. H. , Camin Federica
Published: June 2024

Since 2016 there have been intense discussions within several established communities and networks regarding the consequences of the withdrawal of the LSVEC lithium carbonate reference material for carbon isotope‐delta measurement calibration. These include the Isotope Ratio Working Group (IRWG) of the Consultative Committee for the Amount of Substance (CCQM, French: Comité Consultatif pour la Quantité de Matière) of the International Committee of Weights and Measures (CIPM, French: Comité International des Poids et Mesures); participants within the 2016, 2021 and 2024 Technical Meetings on International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stable isotope ratio reference products; and the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry's Commission on Isotopic Abundances and Atomic Weights (IUPAC CIAAW) amongst others. The reasons for these intensive discussions relate to the privileged position that LSVEC has occupied for traceability of carbon isotope‐delta measurements relative to Vienna Peedee belemnite (VPDB) and the potential implications of its withdrawal for all current and future measurements of carbon isotope‐delta values. This perspective summarises the background information regarding the LSVEC material in the context of the VPDB carbon isotope‐delta scale. The various proposals to address the LSVEC problem that have been discussed within those committees and networks are also presented. The information herein was used as a foundation for discussions at the 2024 IAEA Consultancy Meetings on the Development of IAEA Stable Isotope Reference Materials and Related Products and on the Definition and Realisation of the Isotopic Delta Scales for Light Elements (22–26 January 2024, Vienna, Austria). A summary of those 2024 meetings and associated outcomes can be found elsewhere.
A Bigger Picture of Early Literacy and Biliteracy Acquisition in Abugidas: Perspectives from Asian and African Languages
Authors: Lai Jialin , Quinonez‐Beltran Juan F. , Joshi R. Malatesha
Published: June 2024

With the overwhelming “Anglocentric” or “alphabetocentric” science of reading, the current review aimed to add to the science of reading acquisition from the perspective of abugidic writing system, distinct from the well‐research alphabetic writing system in multiple dimensions of orthographic complexity, as proposed by Daniels and Share (2018), such as linguistic distance, spatial arrangement and non‐linearity, and omission of phonological elements. Abugidic writing system is featured with scripts where each base consonant symbol denotes a consonant with an inherent vowel (/a/) and has billions of users in south Asia (e.g., India, Nepal, Sri Lanka), southeast Asia (e.g., Thailand, Laos, Cambodia), east Asia (parts of China) and Africa (Ethiopia and Eritrea). The current review describes the orthographic feature of Indic (Brahmi‐derived) and Ethiopic (Ge‘ez) scripts within the abugidic writing system and synthesizes existing findings on the literacy acquisition patterns specific to each script. Further, we elaborate on the multilingual and biscriptal language and literacy environment featured with the abugida‐writing societies and discuss the theoretical implication for considering multilingualism and biscriptality as an inseparable sociolinguistic factor when understanding the literacy acquisition of the abugidic writing system in particular and literacy in general.
Genetic diversity of the critically endangered Blue‐crowned laughingthrush (Garrulax courtoisi)
Authors: Gao Xinghe , Mo Bai , Hu Xiaolong , Liu Tao , Cheng Binbin , Li Minling , Wang Dandan , Xu Yongtao , Zhang Weiwei
Published: June 2024

To evaluate the genetic quality and provide available management strategies for Blue‐crowned laughingthrush (BCLT), fifteen polymorphic microsatellite loci were developed and applied. The genetic diversity of wild individuals was indicated to be higher than the two captive populations. The average number of alleles (5.50 ± 0.317), the number of effective alleles (3.417 ± 0.222), observed heterozygosity (0.828 ± 0.04), and genetic differentiation index (0.028 ± 0.007) of 64 wild individuals showed high genetic diversity despite drastic bottleneck and low genetic differentiation. The number of effective migrants (22.737 ± 8.318) indicated the intriguing wintering grounds may be surrounded by the breeding sites where the syncheimadia occurred in Wuyuan. Efficient conservation, winter flocking, and cooperative breeding may facilitate gene exchange and inclusive fitness. We recommend that monitoring concentrated distribution areas for BCLT should be strengthened, and geographical barriers, interference types, and the inner mechanism of distribution patterns should be further explored.
Data Platform for a Data-Driven Tourism Organization. A Conceptual Architecture
Authors: Vidal-Gil Juan , Carrasco-González Ramón Alberto , Blasco-López María Francisca
Published: June 2024

The tourism sector is one of the sectors that has undergone most changes in recent years due to digital transformation. One of the pillars of this transformation is the management of organizations based on data-driven decision making. The raw material for these data-driven strategies is, of course, the sources of information used, which have changed and grown significantly in recent years. This article attempts to provide a conceptual architecture for a modern data platform that effectively manages and analyses these information sources and facilitates data-driven decision-making in tourism organizations.
Big Data and Business Intelligence in Cruise Destinations
Authors: Espinet Josep Maria , Mulet-Forteza Carles , Ferrer-Rosell Berta
Published: June 2024

The aim of this research is to analyse the potential of Big Data and Business Intelligence in cruise destinations. This potentiality is faced from a managerial view management but also from a sustainable view management. Although the cruise industry is very small in relation to all tourism activity, in the places where ships embark/disembark or in the ports of call it has a large economic impact. The study focuses on the challenges and opportunities of big data and Business Intelligence differentiating between ports of embarkation/disembarkation and ports of call. This is conceptual research that makes a set of proposals for the application of Big Data and Business Intelligence based on the information that a cruise destination may have available.
Predictors of the Success of Yacht Charter in Andalusia from a Leading P2P Platform Using Machine Learning
Authors: Jiménez-Jiménez Amor , Sancha Pilar , Martín-Álvarez Juan Manuel , Gessa Ana
Published: June 2024

Research related to the sharing economy in yacht charter is scarce compared to other tourism services such as accommodation, so more contributions are needed. Yacht rental has become essential in the tourist services of coastal destinations, providing important benefits. The vertiginous growth of the boat rental offer hosted on p2p platforms requires analysis, characterization, and search for product patterns that allow a better knowledge of it. The data obtained, based on machine learning techniques, can be used as predictors to detect which products are suitable for the growth and development of the sector in each Andalusian marina. The results provide a relevant contribution to the sector and the enrichment of the literature.
Application of Proknow-C for the Systematic Analysis of Literature on the Influence of Carbon Footprint Reduction Measures on the Choice of Accommodation Reservation
Authors: Haro-Aragu Marina , García-Mestanza Josefa
Published: June 2024

The tourism sector is directly related to high energy consumption. In this context, measuring the ecological footprint generated by tourism is crucial to address environmental challenges. Hotels play a prominent role in this footprint due to their size and daily operations, which consume large amounts of energy and natural resources. The objective of this research is to analyze the state of the question of the influence of this carbon footprint reduction in tourist accommodation, especially hotels. The method used is based on the application of the Knowledge Development Process—Constructivist (ProKnow-C), providing a structured, rigorous procedure that minimizes the use of randomness and subjectivity in the bibliographic review process, as well as its subsequent analysis in the Bibliometrix program. As results, 7 relevant articles are obtained and aligned with the research topic, making it possible to identify the main approaches proposed by the authors of this bibliographic portfolio in relation to the problem raised. The present research can be used as a guide for the construction of knowledge in a systematic way and provides, both academics and professionals, a better overview to understand the contributions of the carbon footprint in the accommodation reservation, especially hotels. Through the bibliometric analysis, it was possible to identify relevant data from the 7 articles in the final portfolio, such as the main words and their correlation, the main authors, the production of said authors over time, etc., which can be presented as an opportunity for future researchers.
Circular Economy in Tourism. An Opportunity for Hotel and Restoration Companies
Authors: Surdez-Pérez Edith Georgina , Sandoval-Caraveo María del Carmen , Velasco-Castellanos Jorge
Published: June 2024

The Circular Economy (CE) is an economic system focused on maintaining and increasing the economic value of goods through preservation, reduction, reuse and recycling, with the purpose of limiting and reducing environmental damage, impacting the quality of life of the beings that inhabit the planet. CE can provide the tourism sector with economic returns in the short term through the use and optimisation of resources, products and materials used to provide its services, and in the medium and long term because in tourism the conservation of nature is to a large extent what ensures the permanence of businesses. The aim of this conceptualisation work is to analyse the importance of the circular economy for the tourism sector, as well as to refer to research instruments and conclusions from various empirical studies on this topic. A qualitative and documentary type of research was carried out using scientific articles, documents generated by various organisations, among others. It is concluded that the components and benefits of CE are still not widely known by entrepreneurs in the tourism sector, mainly small businesses. Likewise, there is a shortage of research instruments to validate the CE construct for its measurement.