bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The INGUIDE International Guideline Training and Certification Programme
Authors: Schünemann Holger J. , Nieuwlaat Robby
Published: March 2024

Health guidelines impact clinical, public health and policy practice, but there is no regulation for their development, often leading to variability in quality and trustworthiness. The International Guideline Training and Certification Programme (INGUIDE), established by faculty at McMaster University in partnership and under the auspice of the Guidelines International Network (GIN), addresses this shortcoming by offering structured, evidence‐based training and certification for those involved in guidelines (inguide.org). This commentary describes INGUIDE's background, purpose, structure and significance after approximately 3 years of operation. INGUIDE's mission is to enhance the quality of health guidelines globally. It provides comprehensive training to ensure the systematic development of guidelines based on the best evidence and adherence to international quality standards, as reflected in its ISO:9001 certification. The programme also emphasizes capacity building, filling educational gaps, and ensuring the global inclusivity of its courses. INGUIDE's certification covers the entire lifecycle of guideline development and includes several levels of certification, ranging from panel member to methodologist, lead methodologist, developer, chair and instructor certification. The programme already has had a global impact, training over 1500 learners since its launch. INGUIDE is led by a steering committee with input from an international advisory board and operational staff, supported by certified instructors. The programme's vision for the future includes expanding accessibility and creating additional training modules, with a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation to diverse healthcare contexts, in particular low‐ and middle‐income countries and settings.
Dynamic properties of Malan loess based on triaxial shear tests
Authors: Li Haifeng , Chen Zhiliang , Zhu Lei , Tang Lin , Liu Guanfei , Qu Liming , Liao Xin , Wang Zhijun , Zeng Zi , Zhou Zuowen
Published: March 2024

Malan loess possesses unfavourable engineering mechanical properties that may vary depending on the geological context in which it exists. In the context of roadbed loading, the structural characteristics of the loess roadbed often result in uneven settlement, which significantly impacts transportation safety. To investigate the dynamic behaviour of loess under the influence of vehicle loading, groups of dynamic rebound modulus tests were conducted using a dynamic triaxial apparatus. Three key aspects are highlighted: compaction degree, moisture content and stress state. The results reveal that the dynamic rebound modulus of loess tends to increase with higher compaction degrees, decrease with increased moisture content and rise under greater confining pressure. For Maran loess, the water content has the greatest influence on its physical and mechanical properties. Under conditions of a confining pressure of 60 kPa and a deviatoric stress of 30 kPa, as the moisture content increased from w = 9% to w = 18%, the minimum dynamic rebound modulus decreased by 63%.
Geological challenges of tunnelling using large slurry shield machine in dense urban centre
Authors: Zeng Yi , Elbaz Khalid , Xiong Wang , Zhang Xiao‐Long , Shen Shui‐Long
Published: March 2024

Tunnelling in complex geological strata is a challenging task that can affect the performance of shield machines and result in unexpected hazards. Therefore, extensive knowledge of unfavourable environments and shield operational parameters is essential for ensuring successful and safe tunnelling. This study aims to analyse the geological and hydrological conditions of the Chunfeng Tunnel and present the key construction technologies of a large slurry shield machine when crossing complex strata. To this end, attempts were made to (i) discuss the geological and environmental challenges encountered during the tunnelling process and present some early interpretations based on the database information, (ii) analyse the factors affecting tunnel performance and simulate the ground surface settlement along the tunnel alignment and (iii) discuss the countermeasures under adverse ground conditions and propose future directions. The results revealed that tunnelling in fault zones with soft upper and hard lower strata led to severe wear of disc cutters and controlling the tunnelling parameters could provide a suitable method for adjusting the construction process. This study leveraged extensive experience gained during tunnelling using a large slurry shield machine, with special emphasis on mixed ground strata, by providing valuable insights and suggested responses for effective tunnelling strategies.
Longitudinal association of spirituality with depressive symptom trajectories among older adults in mainland China
Authors: Hu Xue , Ma Wanrui , Tong Yan , Xiong Mengyun , He Zhehao , Lei Qiuhui , Koenig Harold G. , Wang Zhizhong
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The relationship between spirituality and depressive symptoms among the Chinese elderly is not well known. The current study explores this relationship using longitudinal data and trajectory modeling of depressive symptoms.

Methods

A longitudinal study design was used to measure depressive symptoms repeatedly from 2012 to 2021 using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Group‐based trajectory modeling analysis was conducted to determine the trajectories of depressive symptoms, and multiple logistic regression was used to explore the association between spirituality and depressive symptom trajectories.

Results

A total of 2333 participants completed at least two GDS measures, and these were included in the Group‐based trajectory modeling analysis. An optimal model of three trajectories was derived: no depressive symptoms group (75.2%), new‐onset depressive symptoms group (14.4%), and persistent depressive symptoms group (10.4%). Logistic regression modeling revealed that higher spirituality was associated with a lower risk of both new‐onset depressive symptoms (OR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.49–0.93) and persistent depressive symptoms (OR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.23–0.45).

Conclusions

Spirituality predicts a lower risk of new‐onset depressive symptoms and persistent symptoms among older adults in mainland China.
A mobile application for postoperative education of caregivers of children with congenital hypospadias: Requirement analysis
Authors: Laal Mousavi Seyed Mohsen , Mohammadzadeh Niloofar , Ayyoubzadeh Seyed Mohammad , Mohajerzadeh Leily , Alidadi Maryam
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims

Hypospadias, a congenital anomaly, can have long‐term effects on sexual, urinary, and reproductive functions, making proper postoperative care essential for desirable outcomes, which could be facilitated through a mobile application for diseases with long‐term complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the data and functional requirements or minimum data set of a postoperative education mobile application for caregivers of children with hypospadias.

Methods

A literature review of papers published until April 2023 using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement was conducted to determine the data and functional requirements of a mobile application that provides postoperative education to caregivers of children with congenital hypospadias. Based on the results, a questionnaire was prepared, and its content validity and reliability were evaluated by CVI and CVR. Additionally, data was examined by 30 residents, specialists, and subspecialists in pediatric surgery using the Delphi approach.

Results

The study identified 28 data elements in three main categories: demographic data, clinical data, and application function. Functional requirements of the mobile application were suggested for use in designing the application. Also, the most critical data elements included the definition of disease, the importance of treatment, surgical preparation, bandage, hygiene, symptoms and infection, bleeding, and emergency condition.

Conclusion

The study will pave the way for developing postoperative educational applications for caregivers of children with congenital hypospadias. M‐Health app developers and clinician specialists can utilize these findings to design practical applications that assist caregivers in managing the care of hypospadias patients.
Drainage of irrigated agriculture in Bihar, India—Some issues
Authors: Roy Lal Bahadur , Singh Abhinav Prakash
Published: March 2024

Irrigation development has been taking place for centuries in India. Considerable areas of fertile land under irrigated agriculture have gone out of production due to waterlogging and salt‐related problems. The provision of drains was deferred or postponed in several projects due to shortage of funds during the initial stages. Because of this fact, the productivity of water (t ha⁻¹ mm⁻¹) in India still remains very low. The main reason for the low yields is improper water management, especially lack of drainage in irrigated command areas. There are vast areas in the country urgently requiring drainage works and the present governmental resources are not adequate to cope with the growing demand. Promotion of the private sector in reclamation work and installation of subsurface drains at local level needs encouragement. All these issues together with the research activities inclusive of drainage materials undertaken by different organizations are critically described and discussed in this paper.
Silver‐infused TiO2 nanowires and unveiling their potential for superior wastewater dye remediations
Authors: Akram Bilal , Ahmad Khalil , Khan Ashfaq Ahmad , Khan Bilal Ahmad , Akhtar Javeed
Published: March 2024

Silver infused ultrathin TiO2 nanowires (NWs) were synthesized via a single step solvothermal approach. The crystallinity, structure, and morphology were determined to understand the physicochemical nature of the nanocomposites. The catalytic efficiency of the newly synthesized nanocatalysts was tested for the textile waste treatment taking methylene blue (MB) as model pollutant under solar light irradiations. Nearly 96% photodegradation efficiency for MB was achieved within 20 min. Furthermore, the recyclability of the photocatalyst was also studied, and the material remained stable and effective up to four consecutive runs.

Research Highlights

Precise size‐controlled synthesis of Ag‐incorporated titania nanowires (ATNWs)

Controlled aspect ratios, with tunable lengths and diameters (100–3 nm) via precursor and surfactant optimization

Demonstrated ATNWs' efficiency in degrading toxic dye, methylene blue (MB)

96% photodegradation efficiency for MB achieved within 20 min using 3 nm thick annealed TiO2 NWs

Recyclability efficiency of photocatalyst, which remained stable and effective for up to four consecutive runs
Salinity stress in the black‐chinned tilapia Sarotherodon melanotheron
Authors: Ouattara N'Golo , Rivera‐Ingraham Georgina A. , Lignot Jehan‐Hervé
Published: March 2024

Physiological and morphological acclimation capacities of black‐chinned tilapia, Sarotherodon melanotheron were studied from fish to gill cell level when fish are maintained in freshwater, seawater, and hypersaline conditions. Fish osmoregulatory capacity, gill ionocyte morphology, osmo‐respiratory compromise, O2 consumption rate, branchial antioxidative defense, and cell apoptosis were considered. Captive juvenile tilapias were maintained in controlled freshwater conditions (FW: 0.4 ppt; 12 mOsm kg−1) or gradually transferred to seawater (SW: 32 ppt; 958 mOsm kg−1) and concentrated SW (cSW: 65 ppt; 1920 mOsm kg−1). After 15 days in these conditions, blood osmolality and chloride ion concentration were determined. Gill ionocyte density and morphology were measured using immunolabelled histological sections to specifically detect the sodium pump (NKA). Gill osmo‐respiratory compromise was also calculated along with oxygen consumption rates from normoxic to hypoxic conditions from excised gills (indirect respirometry). Finally, catalase and caspase 3/7activities were recorded from gill extracts. Results indicate that elevated salinity induces an osmotic imbalance and a profound morphological change with proliferating and hypertrophied ionocytes. This thickening of the gill interlamellar cell mass and the shortening of the lamellae induce a reduced osmo‐respiratory ratio and reduced respiratory capacity under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Although salinity changes do not affect one of the major antioxidative defense mechanism, it strongly affects apoptosis that appears the most elevated in SW. However, in freshwater condition, fish can maintain their osmotic balance with a low ionocyte density, a low apoptotic level and a drastically reduced O2 consumption in normoxic condition that is maintained in hypoxia. Therefore, S. melanotheron presents the typical functional remodeling due to environmental salinity changes ranging from FW to SW. However, elevated seawater induces major cellular stress inducing a profound gill morphofunctional dysfunctioning. While cell apoptosis is reduced, ionocyte proliferation is massively increased with impaired osmotic regulation and reduced O2 consumption both in normoxic and hypoxic conditions.
Creative Potential and Creative Self‐Belief: Measurement Invariance in Cross‐Cultural Contexts
Authors: Guo Yawei , Lin Shengjie , Williams Zachary J. , Grantham Tarek C. , Guo Jiajun , Cole Clark Lili Q. , Zou Wenting
Published: March 2024

Cross‐cultural studies on creativity, mainly focusing on the creative potential aspect (e.g., divergent thinking), are emerging in recent years. However, the creative self‐belief (e.g., creative self‐efficacy) aspect of creativity is under‐researched cross‐culturally. Moreover, studies that address the measurement invariance of creativity assessments to ensure the measures' sound psychometric properties cross‐culturally are rare. Thus, we aimed to address (a) the measurement invariance and (b) the mean comparisons of divergent thinking and creative self‐efficacy between American and Chinese adults in two studies. Study 1 investigated four divergent thinking (DT) tests (Line Meanings, Uses, Instances, and Consequences) between American (n = 341) and Chinese (n = 345) college students. Multi‐group confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) for fluency‐supported scalar invariance based on a three‐factor model (removing one Instances item) and those on originality‐supported partial scalar invariance (freeing Uses intercepts) based on a three‐factor model. American respondents exhibited higher latent means on fluency and originality compared to their Chinese counterparts. Study 2 investigated a creative self‐efficacy (CSE) scale between American (n = 302) and Chinese (n = 316) college students. Multi‐group CFA supported scalar invariance based on a one‐factor model (removing one item). Latent mean comparisons showed no difference in CSE across the two groups.
Nanotechnology in plant nutrition: Ensuring sustainable agriculture through nanofertilizers
Authors: Mehta Shabnam , Thakur Anjali , Kurbah Ibajanai , Chauhan Neha , Thakur Rimpika
Published: March 2024

Fertilizers play a crucial role in enhancing the productivity of plants. However, low nutrient use efficiencies of conventional fertilizers (CFs) associated with several losses have led to widespread multi‐nutrient deficiencies in the soil and lower productivity. Furthermore, their excess application has caused serious damage to the soil and environment. Recently, nanotechnology has broadened its applicability in plant nutrition and has paved a way for the production of nanoparticle‐induced fertilizers. Therefore, nanofertilizers stand out as promising alternative to CFs for sustainable agriculture. Nanofertilizers are composed of nanoparticles that contain macro‐ and micronutrients and deliver them in a controlled way to the plant's rhizosphere. This contributes to the enhanced nutrient utilization efficiency. This review delves into the effect of nanotechnology‐based nanofertilizers in different forms and dosages on soil properties and plant development. Additionally, the mechanism underlying absorption of nanofertilizers and their advantages and limitations have also been discussed. A thorough comparison between conventional and nanofertilizers has also been made in this review in terms of their nutrient delivery mechanism, efficiency and application. As the use of nanoparticle‐embedded fertilizers in plant nutrition is still in its infancy, this review can serve as a guide for future investigations to enhance the knowledge of the use of nanoparticles in the mineral nutrition of different crops.
TARC/CCL17 reflects the severity of pemphigus (pemphigus vulgaris and pemphigus foliaceus) at the initial presentation
Authors: Takegami Tomoya , Yonekura Satoru , Nomura Takashi , Egawa Gyohei , Kabashima Kenji
Published: March 2024

Background

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and pemphigus foliaceus (PF) are autoimmune blistering diseases targeting desmoglein 3 (Dsg3) or desmoglein 1 (Dsg1). The current scoring system, pemphigus disease area index (PDAI), has limitations including inter‐ and intra‐evaluator variability, as well as a time‐consuming evaluation process.

Objectives

To identify objective and quantitative surrogate markers for assessing disease severity in PV and PF.

Methods

Eleven PV and PF patients were included. PDAI scores and candidate biomarkers [anti‐Dsg3 antibody, anti‐Dsg1 antibody, thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC)/CCL17, immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels and eosinophil counts] were measured before oral corticosteroid treatment. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used for correlations between PDAI and candidate biomarkers.

Results

Serum TARC/CCL17 levels significantly correlated with PDAI scores in PV and PF (R = 0.72, p = 0.02), while anti‐Dsg3 antibody levels correlated with PDAI scores for PV (R = 0.86, p = 0.012). No significant correlations were observed for anti‐Dsg1 antibody, eosinophil counts or IgE levels.

Conclusions

Serum TARC/CCL17 may be a quantitative and unbiased disease biomarker in pemphigus patients, although further studies involving larger patient cohorts are needed.
Tissue Sealant Impact on Skull Base Reconstruction Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Pang Jonathan C. , Bitner Benjamin F. , Nottoli Madeline M. , Abiri Arash , Bui Anh‐Tram , Nguyen Cecilia H. , Hsu Timothy I. , Nguyen Theodore V. , Hsu Frank P.K. , Kuan Edward C.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Despite significant advances in understanding of skull base reconstruction principles, the role of tissue sealants in modifying postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak outcomes remains controversial. We evaluate postoperative CSF leak incidence associated with tissue sealant use in skull base defect repair during endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS).

Data Sources

Web of Science, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library.

Review Methods

Systematic review and meta‐analysis of risk differences (RD). A search strategy identified original studies reporting CSF leakage following ESBS with disaggregation by tissue sealant use and/or type.

Results

27 non‐randomized studies (n = 2,403) were included for qualitative and meta‐analysis. Reconstruction with a tissue sealant did not significantly reduce postoperative CSF leak risk compared with reconstruction without sealant (RD[95% CI] = 0.02[−0.01, 0.05]). Sub‐analyses of dural sealant (−0.02[−0.11, 0.07]) and fibrin glue (0.00[−0.07, 0.07]) compared with no sealant were similarly unremarkable. Postoperative CSF leakage was not significantly modulated in further sub‐analyses of DuraSeal (0.02[−0.02, 0.05]), Adherus (−0.03[−0.08, 0.03]), or Bioglue (−0.06[−0.23, 0.12]) versus no dural sealant use, or Tisseel/Tissucol versus fibrin glue nonuse (0.00[−0.05, 0.05]). No significant association was seen comparing dural sealant use versus fibrin glue use on pairwise (0.01[−0.03, 0.05]) or network meta‐analysis (−0.01[−0.05, 0.04]). Limitations in source literature prevented sub‐analyses stratified by leak characteristics, defect size and location, and accompanying reconstruction materials.

Conclusion

Tissue sealant use did not appear to impact postoperative CSF leak incidence when compared with nonuse. Higher quality studies are warranted to thoroughly elucidate the clinical value of adjunct sealant use in endoscopic skull base reconstruction.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:3425–3436, 2024
Enhancing the profitability of pay what you want: A study of suggested prices
Authors: Yen Pi‐Ying , Li Yongqi , Liu Haoyu
Published: March 2024

A suggested price is oftentimes utilized in practice to enhance the profitability of pay what you want (PWYW). In this paper, we focus on this suggested price strategy. We conduct five experiments to explore factors that impact buyers' payments after seeing the suggested price. In Study 1, we show a relationship between the suggested price and payments. Intuitively, a higher suggested price results in increased payments. Studies 2A and 2B demonstrate that the relationship between the suggested price and payments is mediated by cost estimation, while Studies 3A and 3B display that the relationship is moderated by the presence of a charitable element. Interestingly, in the case with a charitable element, increasing the suggested price does not stimulate an increment in payments on a par with the case without a charitable element. This paper proposes that sellers who use PWYW could employ a suggested price to furnish buyers with pertinent cost information, but utilizing PWYW with a suggested price may not be suitable for products with a charitable component.
Direct Current Stimulation of Prefrontal Cortex Is Not Effective in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Cappiello Arianna , Abate Filomena , Adamo Sarah , Tepedino Maria Francesca , Donisi Leandro , Ricciardi Carlo , Avallone Anna Rosa , Caterino Miriam , Cuoco Sofia , Pellecchia Maria Teresa , Amboni Marianna , Barone Paolo , Erro Roberto , Picillo Marina
Published: March 2024

Background

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a rare 4R‐tauopathy. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) may improve specific symptoms.

Objectives

This randomized, double‐blinded, sham‐controlled trial aimed at verifying the short‐, mid‐, and long‐term effect of multiple sessions of anodal tDCS over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) cortex in PSP.

Methods

Twenty‐five patients were randomly assigned to active or sham stimulation (2 mA for 20 minute) for 5 days/week for 2 weeks. Participants underwent assessments at baseline, after the 2‐week stimulation protocol, then after 45 days and 3 months from baseline. Primary outcomes were verbal and semantic fluency. The efficacy was verified with analysis of covariance.

Results

We failed to detect a significant effect of active stimulation on primary outcomes. Stimulation was associated to worsening of specific behavioral complaints.

Conclusions

A 2‐week protocol of anodal left DLPFC tDCS is not effective in PSP. Specific challenges in running symptomatic clinical trials with classic design are highlighted. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Standing Balance Conditions and Digital Sway Measures for Clinical Trials of Friedreich's Ataxia
Authors: Casey Hannah L. , Shah Vrutangkumar V. , Muzyka Daniel , McNames James , El‐Gohary Mahmoud , Sowalsky Kristen , Safarpour Delaram , Carlson‐Kuhta Patricia , Schmahmann Jeremy D. , Rosenthal Liana S. , Perlman Susan , Rummey Christian , Horak Fay B. , Gomez Christopher M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Progressive loss of standing balance is a feature of Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA).

Objectives

This study aimed to identify standing balance conditions and digital postural sway measures that best discriminate between FRDA and healthy controls (HC). We assessed test–retest reliability and correlations between sway measures and clinical scores.

Methods

Twenty‐eight subjects with FRDA and 20 HC completed six standing conditions: feet apart, feet together, and feet tandem, both with eyes opened (EO) and eyes closed. Sway was measured using a wearable sensor on the lumbar spine for 30 seconds. Test completion rate, test–retest reliability with intraclass correlation coefficients, and areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) for each measure were compared to identify distinguishable FRDA sway characteristics from HC. Pearson correlations were used to evaluate the relationships between discriminative measures and clinical scores.

Results

Three of the six standing conditions had completion rates over 70%. Of these three conditions, natural stance and feet together with EO showed the greatest completion rates. All six of the sway measures' mean values were significantly different between FRDA and HC. Four of these six measures discriminated between groups with >0.9 AUC in all three conditions. The Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale Upright Stability and Total scores correlated with sway measures with P‐values <0.05 and r‐values (0.63–0.86) and (0.65–0.81), respectively.

Conclusion

Digital postural sway measures using wearable sensors are discriminative and reliable for assessing standing balance in individuals with FRDA. Natural stance and feet together stance with EO conditions suggest use in clinical trials for FRDA. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Bifurcation analysis of a discrete Leslie–Gower predator–prey model with slow–fast effect on predator
Authors: Suleman Ahmad , Qadeer Khan Abdul , Ahmed Rizwan
Published: March 2024

Understanding and accounting for the slow–fast effect are crucial for accurately modeling and predicting the dynamics of predator–prey models, emphasizing the importance of considering the relative speeds of interacting populations in ecological research. This paper examines a predator–prey interaction to study its complex dynamics due to its slow–fast effect on predator populations. The occurrence and stability of equilibria are analyzed. The stability of positive fixed point is dependent on the slow–fast effect parameter
, which must fall within a specific range when the generation gap is larger. The positive fixed point becomes unstable for bigger values of
because the growth of predators is faster, resulting in the extinction of all prey. Smaller values of
cause the positive fixed point to become unstable since the prey grows more quickly while the predator grows more slowly, ultimately causing the extinction of the predator. Moreover, it is shown that Leslie–Gower model experiences Neimark–Sacker and period‐doubling bifurcations at positive equilibrium point. In order to control bifurcation, hybrid control and feedback control methods are employed. Finally, analytical results are confirmed by numerical examples.
Graphene‐based transparent and tunable plus‐shaped refractive index sensor for detecting waterborne bacteria
Authors: Patel Shobhit K. , Parmar Yagnesh , Alsalman Osamah , Parmar Juveriya
Published: March 2024

Waterborne bacteria cause many dangerous diseases as well as several health‐related issues hence detection of them is a global challenge today. A plus‐shaped graphene sensor to detect waterborne bacteria is presented in this paper. The detection mechanism is based upon the refractive index difference between waterborne bacteria sample and pure water which causes a change in resonance peak in the transmittance graph. The use of graphene material increases the sensitivity and also gives the tuning behavior by changing its potential. The effect of various parameters such as sensitivity (S), Q factor, figure of merit (FOM), and detection limit are discussed in the paper. The maximum values Q factor and FOM are 13.46 and 4.03 RIU−1 respectively. The minimum detection limit is 0.277 RIU. The proposed sensor exhibits the highest sensitivity of 255 GHz/RIU at the optimum condition which is comparably higher than previously published papers on biosensors. The proposed design with its highest sensitivity and good detection parameters can be helpful in detecting waterborne bacteria.
A 3D dual‐echo spiral sequence for simultaneous dynamic susceptibility contrast and dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI with single bolus injection
Authors: Li Zhiqiang , Wang Dinghui , Ooi Melvyn B. , Choudhary Poonam , Ragunathan Sudarshan , Karis John P. , Pipe James G. , Quarles C. Chad , Stokes Ashley M.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Perfusion MRI reveals important tumor physiological and pathophysiologic information, making it a critical component in managing brain tumor patients. This study aimed to develop a dual‐echo 3D spiral technique with a single‐bolus scheme to simultaneously acquire both dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) and dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) data and overcome the limitations of current EPI‐based techniques.

Methods

A 3D spiral‐based technique with dual‐echo acquisition was implemented and optimized on a 3T MRI scanner with a spiral staircase trajectory and through‐plane SENSE acceleration for improved speed and image quality, in‐plane variable‐density undersampling combined with a sliding‐window acquisition and reconstruction approach for increased speed, and an advanced iterative deblurring algorithm. Four volunteers were scanned and compared with the standard of care (SOC) single‐echo EPI and a dual‐echo EPI technique. Two patients were scanned with the spiral technique during a preload bolus and compared with the SOC single‐echo EPI collected during the second bolus injection.

Results

Volunteer data demonstrated that the spiral technique achieved high image quality, reduced geometric artifacts, and high temporal SNR compared with both single‐echo and dual‐echo EPI. Patient perfusion data showed that the spiral acquisition achieved accurate DSC quantification comparable to SOC single‐echo dual‐dose EPI, with the additional DCE information.

Conclusion

A 3D dual‐echo spiral technique was developed to simultaneously acquire both DSC and DCE data in a single‐bolus injection with reduced contrast use. Preliminary volunteer and patient data demonstrated increased temporal SNR, reduced geometric artifacts, and accurate perfusion quantification, suggesting a competitive alternative to SOC‐EPI techniques for brain perfusion MRI.
Inline automatic quality control of 2D phase‐contrast flow MRI for subject‐specific scan time adaptation
Authors: Daudé Pierre , Ramasawmy Rajiv , Javed Ahsan , Lederman Robert J. , Chow Kelvin , Campbell‐Washburn Adrienne E.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To develop an inline automatic quality control to achieve consistent diagnostic image quality with subject‐specific scan time, and to demonstrate this method for 2D phase‐contrast flow MRI to reach a predetermined SNR.

Methods

We designed a closed‐loop feedback framework between image reconstruction and data acquisition to intermittently check SNR (every 20 s) and automatically stop the acquisition when a target SNR is achieved. A free‐breathing 2D pseudo‐golden‐angle spiral phase‐contrast sequence was modified to listen for image‐quality messages from the reconstructions. Ten healthy volunteers and 1 patient were imaged at 0.55 T. Target SNR was selected based on retrospective analysis of cardiac output error, and performance of the automatic SNR‐driven “stop” was assessed inline.

Results

SNR calculation and automated segmentation was feasible within 20 s with inline deployment. The SNR‐driven acquisition time was 2 min 39 s ± 67 s (aorta) and 3 min ± 80 s (main pulmonary artery) with a min/max acquisition time of 1 min 43 s/4 min 52 s (aorta) and 1 min 43 s/5 min 50 s (main pulmonary artery) across 6 healthy volunteers, while ensuring a diagnostic measurement with relative absolute error in quantitative flow measurement lower than 2.1% (aorta) and 6.3% (main pulmonary artery).

Conclusion

The inline quality control enables subject‐specific optimized scan times while ensuring consistent diagnostic image quality. The distribution of automated stopping times across the population revealed the value of a subject‐specific scan time.
A superhydrophobic zirconium‐based metal‐organic framework/cellulose fiber composite material
Authors: Hu Hanwen , Li Yu , Hong Xiansheng , Li Qian , Rao Ranyi , Gong Ziyu , Zheng Yuying
Published: March 2024

Cleanup of oil spills has become one of the most challenging tasks in recent years, as marine oil spills have had a great negative impact on human health and the ecological environment. This also urgently requires the development of new materials and methods with superhydrophobic properties for oil–water separation. As new porous materials, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted much attention due to their unique structures and fascinating properties. However, powdered MOF materials are difficult to recycle, and therefore, suitable substrates need to be selected to construct superhydrophobic composites. The surface hydroxyl groups of cellulose fibers offer great possibilities for their superhydrophobic preparation. In this paper, HDTMS‐UiO‐66@CFs composites with superhydrophobicity were strategically synthesized by in‐situ growth of Zr(IV)‐based MOFs linked to hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS) on cellulosic fibers (cotton fabric) by using a hydrothermal synthesis method. The HDTMS‐UiO‐66@CFs composites have a water contact angle of 172° and the absorption capacity of light oil and heavy oil is more than 1100%, and the oil–water separation efficiency is as high as 96%. Due to the in‐situ growth of the HDTMS‐UiO‐66 material on cotton fibers, which makes the material more resistant and stable, the material can still maintain its superhydrophobic properties in various harsh environments and after repeated use. Therefore, the newly developed HDTMS‐UiO‐66@CFs composites have a high potential as novel adsorbent materials for cleaning up offshore oil spills and other applications.

Highlights

In‐situ growth of superhydrophobic metal‐organic frameworks (MOF) particles on cellulose fibers.

The porous structure of hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS)‐UiO66 plays a key role in hydrophobicity.

HDTMS‐UiO66@CFs are chemically stable and have long‐term durability.
Influence of trimodal polymerization on melt rheology, thermal, and mechanical properties of HDPE resin
Authors: Bazgir H. , Hosseini SH , Sepahi A. , Houshmandmoayed S. , Afzali K. , Partovi rad A.
Published: March 2024

Trimodal polymerization of polyethylene has become a research interest in recent years due to its excellent potential for altering material properties and overcoming the limitations of the bimodal process. Here, we have comprehensively investigated the effects of manipulating polymerization parameters, such as split value (SV), hydrogen‐to‐ethylene ratio (H2/C2), and stage switching, on the rheological, thermal, and mechanical properties of synthesized trimodal high‐density polyethylene (HDPE). The synthesized samples were obtained through three consecutive stages in a slurry lab‐scale reactor. The results of molten state analysis demonstrate that recipe modification, particularly SV and H2/C2 balancing in the second and third stages, had a dramatic effect on the rheological properties including dynamic moduli, G′‐G″ crossover, and the shear‐thinning behavior. Concurrently, improvements in physio‐mechanical properties, such as sagging behavior and slow crack growth resistance (SCG), were observed compared to the bimodal resin. The thermal characterization indicates that the polymerization adjustments made did not notably impact the thermal properties of HDPE samples (e.g., Tm), throughout the all‐recipe manipulation. However, minor fluctuations in crystallinity and crystallization kinetics were observed which was presumably attributed to the molecular weight of the final resin. Overall, in our trimodal polymerization recipe, the HDPE powder is within the specified range of particle size distribution, which ensures excellent bulk density and flowability.

Highlights

Influence of polymerization parameters such as split value, H2/C2, and stage switching in properties of trimodal HDPE.

HDPE resin received from split value and H2/C2 balancing have superior SCG and sagging resistance.

All HDPE samples synthesized by different recipes have similar thermal properties.
Relation of craze to crack length during slow crack growth phenomena in high‐density polyethylene
Authors: Schilling Markus , Niebergall Ute , Marschall Niklas , Meinel Dietmar , Böhning Martin
Published: March 2024

The craze‐crack mechanism occurring in high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) causing slow crack growth and environmental stress cracking is investigated in detail with respect to the relation of crack length and the related craze zone. This is essential for the understanding of the resulting features of the formed fracture surface and their interpretation in the context of the transition from crack propagation to ductile shear deformation. It turns out that an already formed craze zone does not inevitably result in formation of a propagating crack, but could also undergo ductile failure. For the examination, the full notch creep test (FNCT) was employed with a subsequent advanced fracture surface analysis that was performed using various imaging techniques: light microscopy, laser scanning microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray micro computed tomography scan. FNCT specimens were progressively damaged for increasing durations under standard test conditions applying Arkopal, the standard surfactant solution, and biodiesel as test media were used to analyze the stepwise growth of cracks and crazes. From considerations based on well‐established fracture mechanics approaches, a theoretical correlation between the length of the actual crack and the length of the preceding craze zone was established that could be evidenced and affirmed by FNCT fracture surface analysis. Moreover, the yield strength of a HDPE material exposed to a certain medium as detected by a classic tensile test was found to be the crucial value of true stress to induce the transition from crack propagation due to the craze‐crack mechanism to shear deformation during FNCT measurements.

Highlights

Progress of crack formation in high‐density polyethylene is analyzed by different imaging techniques

Determined growth rates depend on distinction between craze zone and crack

The ratio of the present crack to the anteceding craze zone is validated theoretically

The transition from crack propagation to ductile shear deformation is identified

An already formed craze zone may still fail by ductile mechanisms
Hydrothermal aging behavior of high‐performance polymeric fibers: Mechanical performance at the yarn scale and chemical analysis
Authors: Hoque Saiful , Saha Ankit , Chung Hyun‐Joong , Dolez Patricia
Published: March 2024

High‐performance fibers are used in fire‐protective garments due to their exceptional thermal stability and mechanical performance. However, these garments suffer from a reduction in their performance over their lifetime. The purpose of this study was to investigate the hydrothermal aging of 15 yarns contained in eight fabrics made of different fiber blends. The accelerated hydrothermal aging was performed via immersion in reverse osmosis (RO) and acidic water at temperatures between 40 °C and 90 °C for up to 1200 h. The resulting mechanical, chemical, and physicochemical changes in the yarns and fabrics were assessed. The result showed a large drop in the breaking force of yarns made from para‐aramid/polybenzimidazole (PBI) fiber blends in all aging water conditions. For the other fabrics, aging in acidic water and a jar with the PBI‐containing fabrics generally caused a larger decrease in strength compared to aging in RO water in a separate jar. The results also showed that a change in crystallinity rather than in chemical structure appeared to be the cause for the changes in tensile strength after hydrothermal aging. The findings of this study will contribute to identifying strategies to improve the long‐term performance of fire‐protective fabrics.
Item response theory analysis of daytime sleepiness as a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Wellhagen Gustaf J. , Karlsson Mats O. , Kjellsson Maria C. , Garmann Dirk , Bröker Astrid , Zhang Yang , Nokela Mika , Weimann Gerrit , Yassen Ashraf
Published: March 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder which is linked to many health risks. The gold standard to evaluate OSA in clinical trials is the Apnea‐Hypopnea Index (AHI). However, it is time‐consuming, costly, and disregards aspects such as quality of life. Therefore, it is of interest to use patient‐reported outcomes like the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), which measures daytime sleepiness, as surrogate end points. We investigate the link between AHI and ESS, via item response theory (IRT) modeling. Through the developed IRT model it was identified that AHI and ESS are not correlated to any high degree and probably not measuring the same sleepiness construct. No covariate relationships of clinical relevance were found. This suggests that ESS is a poor choice as an end point for clinical development if treatment is targeted at improving AHI, and especially so in a mild OSA patient group.
Role of carbon nanotubes in remediation of pharmaceutical wastewater
Authors: Bhayana Parag , Dandekar Trupti , Bala Rajni , Madaan Reecha , Mahajan Pooja
Published: March 2024

The discharge of wastewater from the pharmaceutical industry poses risks of detrimental effects on various ecosystems. The presence of hazardous substances in pharmaceutical wastewater is a matter of global concern due to its association with multiple disorders, including disruptions in endocrine hormones and significant chronic toxicity. As research in this field continues to grow, the valorization to nanotechnology‐based treatment of industrial wastewater approaches. One prominent focus of recent research is the utilization of nanomaterials, particularly carbon nanotubes (CNTs), in treating pharmaceutical wastewater, aligns with the goals of sustainable development. CNTs demonstrate potential in efficiently mineralizing pharmaceutical compounds in wastewater, offering cost‐effectiveness, ease of handling, and efficacy. Additionally, CNTs possess the capability to remediate pharmaceutical wastewater at a relatively low cost, with the advantage of being recyclable. This review provides an overview of the diverse applications of various CNTs for the removal of pharmaceutical compounds from wastewater, emphasizing the mechanisms of adsorption and degradation of these compounds using CNTs. Furthermore, it sheds light on the application of CNTs in photocatalysis as an economically viable and efficient solution.
Polyphosphate Nanoparticles: Balancing Energy Requirements in Tissue Regeneration Processes
Authors: Müller Werner E.G. , Neufurth Meik , Wang Shunfeng , Schröder Heinz C. , Wang Xiaohong
Published: March 2024

Nanoparticles of a particular, evolutionarily old inorganic polymer found across the biological kingdoms have attracted increasing interest in recent years not only because of their crucial role in metabolism but also their potential medical applicability: it is inorganic polyphosphate (polyP). This ubiquitous linear polymer is composed of 10–1000 phosphate residues linked by high‐energy anhydride bonds. PolyP causes induction of gene activity, provides phosphate for bone mineralization, and serves as an energy supplier through enzymatic cleavage of its acid anhydride bonds and subsequent ATP formation. The biomedical breakthrough of polyP came with the development of a successful fabrication process, in depot form, as Ca‐ or Mg‐polyP nanoparticles, or as the directly effective polymer, as soluble Na‐polyP, for regenerative repair and healing processes, especially in tissue areas with insufficient blood supply. Physiologically, the platelets are the main vehicles for polyP nanoparticles in the circulating blood. To be biomedically active, these particles undergo coacervation. This review provides an overview of the properties of polyP and polyP nanoparticles for applications in the regeneration and repair of bone, cartilage, and skin. In addition to studies on animal models, the first successful proof‐of‐concept studies on humans for the healing of chronic wounds are outlined.
Wearable and Recyclable Water‐Toleration Sensor Derived from Lipoic Acid
Authors: Xu Weikun , Shen Tao , Ding Yutong , Ye Huijian , Wu Bozhen , Chen Feng
Published: March 2024

Flexible wearable sensors recently have made significant progress in human motion detection and health monitoring. However, most sensors still face challenges in terms of single detection targets, single application environments, and non‐recyclability. Lipoic acid (LA) shows a great application prospect in soft materials due to its unique properties. Herein, ionic conducting elastomers (ICEs) based on polymerizable deep eutectic solvents consisting of LA and choline chloride are prepared. In addition to the good mechanical strength, high transparency, ionic conductivity, and self‐healing efficiency, the ICEs exhibit swelling‐strengthening behavior and enhanced adhesion strength in underwater environments due to the moisture‐induced association of poly(LA) hydrophobic chains, thus making it possible for underwater sensing applications, such as underwater communication. As a strain sensor, it exhibits highly sensitive strain response with repeatability and durability, enabling the monitoring of both large and fine human motions, including joint movements, facial expressions, and pulse waves. Furthermore, due to the enhancement of ion mobility at higher temperatures, it also possesses excellent temperature‐sensing performance. Notably, the ICEs can be fully recycled and reused as a new strain/temperature sensor through heating. This study provides a novel strategy for enhancing the mechanical strength of poly(LA) and the fabrication of multifunctional sensors.
The Nonvolatile Memory and Neuromorphic Simulation of ReS2/h‐BN/Graphene Floating Gate Devices Under Photoelectrical Hybrid Modulations
Authors: Li Wei , Li Jiaying , Mu Tianhui , Li Jiayao , Sun Pengcheng , Dai Mingjian , Chen Yuhua , Yang Ruijing , Chen Zhao , Wang Yucheng , Wu Yupan , Wang Shaoxi
Published: March 2024

The floating gate devices, as a kind of nonvolatile memory, obtain great application potential in logic‐in‐memory chips. The 2D materials have been greatly studied due to atomically flat surfaces, higher carrier mobility, and excellent photoelectrical response. The 2D ReS2 flake is an excellent candidate for channel materials due to thickness‐independent direct bandgap and outstanding optoelectronic response. In this paper, the floating gate devices are prepared with the ReS2/h‐BN/Gr heterojunction. It obtains superior nonvolatile electrical memory characteristics, including a higher memory window ratio (81.82%), tiny writing/erasing voltage (±8 V/2 ms), long retention (>1000 s), and stable endurance (>1000 times) as well as multiple memory states. Meanwhile, electrical writing and optical erasing are achieved by applying electrical and optical pulses, and multilevel storage can easily be achieved by regulating light pulse parameters. Finally, due to the ideal long‐time potentiation/depression synaptic weights regulated by light pulses and electrical pulses, the convolutional neural network (CNN) constructed by ReS2/h‐BN/Gr floating gate devices can achieve image recognition with an accuracy of up to 98.15% for MNIST dataset and 91.24% for Fashion‐MNIST dataset. The research work adds a powerful option for 2D materials floating gate devices to apply to logic‐in‐memory chips and neuromorphic computing.