bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ohio River basin snow ablation and the role of rain‐on‐snow
Authors: Suriano Zachary J. , Davidson Samuel , Dixon Ross D. , Roy Tirthankar
Published: June 2024

Snow cover ablation within the Ohio River Basin (ORB) plays an important role in regional hydroclimatology, while also representing a potential hazard during large and rapid events. Rain‐on‐snow ablation is a particular challenge, where runoff rates are typically enhanced due to the dual inputs of snowmelt and liquid precipitation. Here, we present a 40‐year climatology of snow ablation events frequency, intensity, and timing for the ORB using a 4‐km gridded snow‐water‐equivalent dataset, focusing on the relative proportion of events caused by rain‐on‐snow and changes over time. Spatial patterns of snow ablation frequency and intensity mirror that of seasonal snowfall totals, with higher (lower) values in the northern and eastern (southern) portions of the basin. Rain‐on‐snow events represent approximately 40% of all ablation events within the basin and result in approximately 24%–25% more snow‐water‐equivalent loss than non‐rain‐on‐snow events, plus an additional 3–12 mm of liquid precipitation per event on average. Peak frequency of ablation and rain‐on‐snow events occurs in late winter and early spring, similar to that of the surrounding region. Over time, the frequency of ablation and rain‐on‐snow events has decreased in the northern and eastern portions of the basin, in some cases by as much as 30%. Trends in event magnitudes were more isolated but decreased across portions of central IN, northern KY, eastern OH and northern WV. Additionally, the magnitude of precipitation during rain‐on‐snow events has increased across the region, extending from northern KY into western PA by over 100% in many cases. Broadly, we find tendencies towards fewer events with less snow loss but more liquid precipitation that suggest complicated impacts to the hydroclimatology warranting further investigation.
Intra‐annual radial growth of Quercus acutissma and its response to hydrometeorological factors in the Nandadish experimental catchment, eastern China
Authors: Liu Hui , Liao Aimin , Li Yike , Hu Pengcheng , Pang Hongxi
Published: June 2024

Investigating the relationship between tree growth within a year and environmental factors is crucial for understanding how climate change affects seasonal tree growth patterns. In this study, high‐resolution point dendrometers were used to monitor the stem radial changes of Oak trees (Quercus acutissma) over two years (2020 and 2021) in the eastern subtropical monsoon region of China. We find that the main growth period of Oak trees spans from March to September, and air temperature significantly affects the growth onset of Oak trees but with no clear impact on their growth cessation. The observations show that precipitation substantially affects daily stem radial increment (SRI), but the frequency of precipitation days plays a more crucial role in enhancing seasonal growth than the total precipitation amount. In the growing season, the stem radius of the Oak trees shows obvious diurnal cycles with shrinkage during the day and expansion at night, reflecting a delicate balance between canopy water loss and soil water absorption. The diurnal variations of the stem radius during the cold period (January and December) show an opposite pattern to that of the growing season, due to the sap's freezing under the condition of low air temperature at night as well as no or weak transpiration in the daytime. Because the temporal dynamics and intensity of tree activities significantly affect the timing and mechanisms of carbon assimilation in terrestrial ecosystems, our results are helpful to evaluate the carbon sequestration capacity of subtropical forests under the global climate change.
Combined application of mesenchymal stem cells and different glucocorticoid dosing alleviates osteoporosis in SLE murine models
Authors: Ding Sisi , Ren Tian , Song Saizhe , Peng Cheng , Liu Cuiping , Wu Jian , Chang Xin
Published: June 2024

Objective

Bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have been tentatively applied in the treatment of glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis (GIOP) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the effects of BMSCs on osteoporosis within the context of glucocorticoid (GC) application in SLE remain unclear. Our aim was to explore the roles of BMSCs and different doses of GC interventions on osteoporosis in SLE murine models.

Methods

MRL/MpJ‐Faslpr mice were divided into eight groups with BMSC treatment and different dose of GC intervention. Three‐dimensional imaging analysis and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining were performed to observe morphological changes. The concentrations of osteoprotegerin (OPG) and receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) in serum were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The subpopulation of B cells and T cells in bone marrows and spleens were analyzed by flow cytometry. Serum cytokines and chemokines were assessed using Luminex magnetic bead technology.

Results

BMSCs ameliorated osteoporosis in murine SLE models by enhancing bone mass, improving bone structure, and promoting bone formation through increased bone mineral content and optimization of trabecular morphology. BMSC and GC treatments reduced the number of B cells in bone marrows, but the effect was not significant in spleens. BMSCs significantly promoted the expression of IL‐10 while reducing IL‐18. Moreover, BMSCs exert immunomodulatory effects by reducing Th17 expression and rectifying the Th17/Treg imbalance.

Conclusion

BMSCs effectively alleviate osteoporosis induced by SLE itself, as well as osteoporosis resulting from SLE combined with various doses of GC therapy. The therapeutic effects of BMSCs appear to be mediated by their influence on bone marrow B cells, T cell subsets, and associated cytokines. High‐dose GC treatment exerts a potent anti‐inflammatory effect but may hinder the immunotherapeutic potential of BMSCs. Our research may offer valuable guidance to clinicians regarding the use of BMSC treatment in SLE and provide insights into the judicious use of GCs in clinical practice.
Classification of the Stages of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis via Federated General Visual Representation Learning
Authors: Nergiz Mehmet
Published: June 2024

The excess buildup of fat within a patient's liver, even in the absence of any previous alcohol consumption, defines nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Accurate classification of NAFLD subtypes, especially nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), through histology biopsies is vital for risk stratification and patient management, including liver transplantation decisions. Therapeutic options targeting liver molecular pathways are being explored, as approved therapies for NASH/NAFLD are currently lacking. Deep learning‐driven pathological diagnosis holds promise for precise assessments, and the application of the federated learning version of the Big Transfer (BiT) model in this study represents a significant advancement in NAFLD/NASH classification and staging using histopathological imaging data. The AUC performance results of federated learning settings of “mainclass” and “multiclass” scenarios are obtained respectively as 0.9299 and 0.9582. The AUC results of each “subclass” are achieved as 0.9376, 0.9435, 0.9867, and 0.9618 respectively, for ballooning, inflammation, steatosis, and fibrosis. The effectiveness of the federated learning configurations in the scenarios categorized as “main‐class” and “multi‐class” is reflected in their respective accuracy (ACC) performance outcomes, which are recorded as 0.7650 and 0.6653. Furthermore, the ACC achievements for each specific “sub‐class” namely, ballooning, inflammation, steatosis, and fibrosis are 0.9016, 0.8568, 0.9203, and 0.8815, respectively.
Deep learning enhancing guide RNA design for CRISPR/Cas12a‐based diagnostics
Authors: Huang Baicheng , Guo Ling , Yin Hang , Wu Yue , Zeng Zihan , Xu Sujie , Lou Yufeng , Ai Zhimin , Zhang Weiqiang , Kan Xingchi , Yu Qian , Du Shimin , Li Chao , Wu Lina , Huang Xingxu , Wang Shengqi , Wang Xinjie
Published: June 2024

Rapid and accurate diagnostic tests are fundamental for improving patient outcomes and combating infectious diseases. The Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) Cas12a‐based detection system has emerged as a promising solution for on‐site nucleic acid testing. Nonetheless, the effective design of CRISPR RNA (crRNA) for Cas12a‐based detection remains challenging and time‐consuming. In this study, we propose an enhanced crRNA design system with deep learning for Cas12a‐mediated diagnostics, referred to as EasyDesign. This system employs an optimized convolutional neural network (CNN) prediction model, trained on a comprehensive data set comprising 11,496 experimentally validated Cas12a‐based detection cases, encompassing a wide spectrum of prevalent pathogens, achieving Spearman's ρ = 0.812. We further assessed the model performance in crRNA design for four pathogens not included in the training data: Monkeypox Virus, Enterovirus 71, Coxsackievirus A16, and Listeria monocytogenes. The results demonstrated superior prediction performance compared to the traditional experiment screening. Furthermore, we have developed an interactive web server (https://crispr.zhejianglab.com/) that integrates EasyDesign with recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) primer design, enhancing user accessibility. Through this web‐based platform, we successfully designed optimal Cas12a crRNAs for six human papillomavirus (HPV) subtypes. Remarkably, all the top five predicted crRNAs for each HPV subtype exhibited robust fluorescent signals in CRISPR assays, thereby suggesting that the platform could effectively facilitate clinical sample testing. In conclusion, EasyDesign offers a rapid and reliable solution for crRNA design in Cas12a‐based detection, which could serve as a valuable tool for clinical diagnostics and research applications.
Revealing processing stability landscape of organic solar cells with automated research platforms and machine learning
Authors: Du Xiaoyan , Lüer Larry , Heumueller Thomas , Classen Andrej , Liu Chao , Berger Christian , Wagner Jerrit , Le Corre Vincent M. , Cao Jiamin , Xiao Zuo , Ding Liming , Forberich Karen , Li Ning , Hauch Jens , Brabec Christoph J.
Published: June 2024

We use an automated research platform combined with machine learning to assess and understand the resilience against air and light during production of organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices from over 40 donor and acceptor combinations. The standardized protocol and high reproducibility of the platform results in a dataset of high variety and veracity to deploy machine learning models to encounter links between stability and chemical, energetic, and morphological structure. We find that the strongest predictor for air/light resilience during production is the effective gap Eg,eff which points to singlet oxygen rather than the superoxide anion being the dominant agent in degradation under processing conditions. A similarly good prediction of air/light resilience can also be achieved by considering only features from chemical structure, that is, information which is available prior to any experimentation.
Simultaneous resistance switching and rectifying effects in a single hybrid perovskite
Authors: Song Xuefen , Zhang Junran , Qian Yuchi , Xia Zhongjing , Chen Jinlian , Yin Hao , Liu Jing , Feng Linbo , Liu Tianyu , Zhu Zihong , Hua Yuyang , Liu You , Yuan Jiaxiao , Ge Feixiang , Zhou Dawei , Li Mubai , Hang Yang , Wang Fangfang , Qin Tianshi , Wang Lin
Published: June 2024

Halide perovskites with naturally coupled electron‐ion dynamics hold great potential for nonvolatile memory applications. Self‐rectifying memristors are promising as they can avoid sneak currents and simplify device configuration. Here we report a self‐rectifying memristor firstly achieved in a single perovskite (NHCINH3)3PbI5 (abbreviated as (IFA)3PbI5), which is sandwiched by Ag and ITO electrodes as the simplest cell in a crossbar array device configuration. The iodide ions of (IFA)3PbI5 can be easily activated, of which the migration in the bulk contributes to the resistance hysteresis and the reaction with Ag at the interface contributes to the spontaneous formation of AgI. The perfect combination of n‐type AgI and p‐type (IFA)3PbI5 gives rise to the rectification function like a p–n diode. Such a self‐rectifying memristor exhibits the record‐low set power consumption and voltage. This work emphasizes that the multifunction of ions in perovskites can simplify the fabrication procedure, decrease the programming power, and increase the integration density of future memory devices.

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EEERP‐RL: Enhanced energy‐efficient routing protocol based on reinforcement learning for wireless sensor network
Authors: Jaber Mohanad J. , Jaber Zahraa Jasim
Published: June 2024

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) efficiently monitors and record environmental conditions, transmitting this data to central locations via widely distributed, sensor nodes. One major challenge in WSN involves creating an energy‐efficient routing protocol that minimizes energy consumption and extends the network's longevity. In this paper, we propose EEERP‐RL, an enhanced energy‐efficient QoS routing protocol for WSNs, based on reinforcement learning (RL). The proposed protocol has been compared with two other protocols to determine which one gives the best performance in the network OSPF and SDN‐Q. There is an investigation of packet delivery ratios and delays (m), as well as the impact of alive nodes, dead nodes, and energy consumption. Based on simulation results, the proposed protocol outperforms as compared to existing protocol in terms of different network traffic loads and node mobility.
Best practices in online/distance pharmacy practice course didactic instruction
Authors: Havrda Dawn E. , Crannage Andrew J. , Bingham Angela L. , Cook Kristen M. , Hamblin Susan E. , Lloyd Andie E. , May J. Russell , Merlo Jessica R. , Miller Kaely G. , Spivey Christina A.
Published: June 2024

This commentary provides an overview of the current literature and best practices for online learning and assessment within the didactic curriculum of pharmacy education, building on the 2022 ACCP commentary addressing remote experiential learning. Lessons learned from online delivery of curricula and best practices for programs to create the optimal online learning environment for students are reviewed. Although benefits of online learning have been found, such as flexibility, convenience, and efficient use of time, with similar short‐term student performance, the potential long‐term implications on pharmacy students are not fully known, particularly concerning board pass rates, job attainment, and knowledge/skills application in the workplace. This commentary reviews and recommends the types of teaching modalities that align best with an online format for knowledge acquisition and student satisfaction. The most challenging part of didactic curricula to teach remotely is skills development. Proficiency in skills (e.g., compounding preparations or physical assessment) is best evaluated in person to promote student self‐confidence in pharmacy practice and patient care. This commentary reviews the needed components for designing quality online courses, all in the context of remembering the significance of instructor engagement. The commentary also discusses the importance of bidirectional feedback for the instructor and student and the deliberate use of formative assessments of learning to gauge student performance. A review of online summative and high‐stakes assessments is included with a focus on ensuring academic integrity while also minimizing any impact on student performance and anxiety. As pharmacy education has learned from the experiences with the COVID‐19 transition to online learning, consideration should be given to best practices regarding when and how to use online modalities to teach students and foster student learning. Regardless of the format, courses should engage the student and instructor and be evaluated routinely to promote achievement of learning outcomes.
Determining ideal offsets of spatially offset Raman spectroscopy for transcutaneous measurements—A Monte Carlo study
Authors: Chen Keren , sun Mengya , Chen Shuo
Published: June 2024

Spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) is valuable for noninvasive bone assessment but requires a clearer understanding of how offset distances influence detection depth. To address this, our study devised a forward‐adjoint Monte Carlo multi‐layer (MCML) model to simulate photon paths in SORS, aiming to determine optimal offsets for various tissue types. We examined photon migration at offsets between 0 and 15 mm against layered phantoms of differing thicknesses and compositions to optimize the signal‐to‐noise ratio for bone layers. The findings highlight that optimal offsets are contingent on tissue characteristics: a metacarpal beneath 2.5 mm of tissue had an ideal offset of 6.7 mm, while a tibia with 5 mm of soft tissue required 10–11 mm. This precise calibration of SORS via MCML modeling promises substantial improvements in bone health diagnostics and potential for expansive medical applications.
Characterization, anti‐microbial, anti‐oxidant and growth promoting effects of biogenically synthesized silver nanoparticles derived from Dicliptera bupleuroides Nees
Authors: Samad Memoona , Akhtar Wasim , Muneer Arooj , Fatima Iram , Manzoor Muhammad , Gillani Syed Waseem , Rehman Fazal Ur , Majeed Khawar , Ali Baber , Sarwar Rizwan
Published: June 2024

One of the most important areas of nanotechnology is the use of nanoparticles (NPs) for a variety of environmental and biological applications, with silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NPs) gaining a lot attention due to their distinct properties. The current study deals with the synthesis of Ag‐NPs from Dicliptera bupleuroides Nees leaf extract and to determine their antioxidant, antimicrobial potential and effects on wheat seed germination and growth. UV–Visible spectrum revealed a prominent absorption peak at 442 nm, elucidating the conformation of the Ag‐NPs synthesis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed distinctive triangular, pyramidal, and irregular shape. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) demonstrated their crystalline nature, with average crystallite size of the Ag‐NPs measured at 20.52 nm. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) further confirmed the presence of functional groups such as Phenols (O‐H stretch), transition metal carbonyls N‐H, ≡C‐H, C ≡ N, C ≡ C, C‐Cl, C‐Br and O‐H bonds on the surface Ag‐NPs. The antibacterial activity of the Ag‐NPs was most pronounced against Bacillus subtilis, with a zone of inhibition (ZOI) measuring 11 mm ± 0.57 at a concentration of 1000 μg/mL (45% inhibition). Likewise, Ag‐NPs exhibited highest antioxidant potential (73.2%) at 100 μg/mL compared with standard (ascorbic acid) which showed (76%) at the same concentration. Furthermore, the effect of D. bupleuroides mediated Ag‐NPs on wheat seeds growth and germination was recorded maximum at high concentrations (200‐300 ppm). In conclusion, D. bupleuroides mediated Ag‐NPs showed safe, cost effective and environmentally friendly synthesis which can be used as an antibacterial and antioxidant agent as well as for enhancing the growth and seed germination of crop seeds globally.

Research Highlights

Nanotechnology is the study of nanoparticles for biological and environmental applications.

Ag‐NPs among other NPs have received broad attention because of their unique properties.

D. bupleuroides Ag‐NPs: 45% antibacterial, 73.2% antioxidant, enhance wheat germination.

D. bupleuroides‐mediated Ag‐NPs are both cost‐effective and environmentally beneficial.
Creativity and Autism: A Systematic Review of Interventions
Authors: Elisondo Romina Cecilia , de la Barrera María Laura
Published: June 2024

The objective is to analyze the impacts of educational interventions with people with autism through the systematic review of publications. The article presents a review of 22 interventions published in SCOPUS, Google Scholar, and PsycINFO between 2005 and 2023 were selected. The keywords used were autism and creativity. Interventions that present impact assessment processes were included. The study follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses) guidelines for conducting systematic reviews. The data are analyzed using coding and constant comparisons. The results indicate that the interventions can be considered creative projects since they generate ruptures and new forms of understanding and action. The interventions are projects that recognize the possibilities of people with autism and enable original actions, strategies and resources to enhance learning. The results provide evidence about the importance of neurodiversity and inclusive education.
Deep recognition of rice disease images: how many training samples do we really need?
Authors: Zhou Huiru , Huang Dong , Wu Bo Ming
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

With the rapid development of deep learning, the recognition of rice disease images using deep neural networks has become a hot research topic. However, most previous studies only focus on the modification of deep learning models, while lacking research to systematically and scientifically explore the impact of different data sizes on the image recognition task for rice diseases. In this study, a functional model was developed to predict the relationship between the size of dataset and the accuracy rate of model recognition.

RESULTS

Training VGG16 deep learning models with different quantities of images of rice blast‐diseased leaves and healthy rice leaves, it was found that the test accuracy of the resulting models could be well fitted with an exponential model (A = 0.9965 − e(−0.0603×I50−1.6693)). Experimental results showed that with an increase of image quantity, the recognition accuracy of deep learning models would show a rapid increase at first. Yet when the image quantity increases beyond a certain threshold, the accuracy of image classification would not improve much, and the marginal benefit would be reduced. This trend remained similar when the composition of the dataset was changed, no matter whether (i) the disease class was changed, (ii) the number of classes was increased or (iii) the image data were augmented.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided a scientific basis for the impact of data size on the accuracy of rice disease image recognition, and may also serve as a reference for researchers for database construction. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Opioid Prescription Trends Among Sleep Surgeons in the United States
Authors: Saroya Jasmeet , Singh Amritpal , Chang Jolie L. , Durr Megan L.
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study aimed to describe trends in opioid prescriptions among US sleep surgeons between 2013 and 2021 via a retrospective analysis conducted using publicly available data.

Methods

Utilizing the CMS part D database, we analyzed data from 82 sleep surgeons, focusing on metrics including number of opioid beneficiaries and claims, opioid cost, and opioid day supply per beneficiary. We employed statistical methods including ANOVA, t‐tests, Fisher's exact test with Monte Carlo Simulation, and regression models.

Results

There were no significant changes in the number of opioid claims (p = 0.782) or beneficiaries per provider (p = 0.590) nor was there a decrease in opioid day supply per beneficiary (p = 0.489) over time. Surgeons who graduated residency before 2000 prescribed significantly more opioids over the course of the study period compared to those graduating after 2000 with higher opioid day supply per beneficiary (13.34 vs. 7.42, p < 0.001), higher opioid beneficiaries per provider (21.62 vs. 19.36, p = 0.028), and higher opioid claims per provider (30.30 vs. 21.78, p < 0.001). A significant annual decrease in opioid cost per beneficiary (ANOVA, p = 0.006) was noted.

Conclusions

This study illuminates a significant impact of provider years in practice on opioid prescribing trends, alongside a decreasing trend in opioid cost per beneficiary. Despite the evolving paradigm emphasizing opioid reduction and evidence of decreasing opioid prescriptions in other otolaryngology subspecialties, our findings depict that opioid prescriptions among sleep surgeons remained stable from 2013 to 2021.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:4810–4817, 2024
Practice Patterns in Asymmetric Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Survey Data
Authors: Schiff Elliot , Friedman Sara A. , Al‐Mulki Kareem , Lin Juan , Moskowitz Howard S.
Published: June 2024

Objective

Although screening protocols for patients who present with asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss (ASNHL) exist, there are no clear guidelines to direct practitioners. In particular, various thresholds have been proposed for the degree of hearing loss that should prompt MRI studies, but the topic remains understudied. This project aims to compare protocols followed by practitioners to guide their imaging practices.

Study Design

Web‐based survey.

Setting

Otolaryngology faculty at academic medical centers.

Methods

A list of 530 otolaryngologists (276 otology/neurotology specialists, 254 general otolaryngologists) was compiled. A survey consisting of three parts: demographics, general practice patterns, and simulated patient cases was distributed.

Results

A total of 468 surveys were successfully distributed, resulting in 88 (18.8%) responses. The majority of respondents (63.8%) self‐reported their definition of ASNHL as “>30 dB hearing asymmetry at one frequency OR >20 dB hearing asymmetry at two continuous frequencies OR >10 dB hearing asymmetry at three contiguous frequencies.” Overall, general otolaryngologists were more likely to observe asymmetric findings with serial audiogram alone, whereas otology/neurotology specialists were more likely to obtain imaging.

Conclusion

There is significant variability between providers with regard to managing patients with ASNHL and evidence‐based guidelines would be useful in guiding imaging practices.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:4745–4753, 2024
Conversion of native grasslands into croplands in the Pampa biome and its effects on source contributions to suspended sediment of the Ibirapuitã River, Brazil
Authors: Ramon Rafael , Evrard Olivier , Huon Sylvain , Feitosa Carlos Eduardo Linhares , Bernardi Felipe , Batista Antônio Augusto Medeiros , Tiecher Tadeu Luis , Minella Jean Paolo Gomes , Barros Cláudia Alessandra Peixoto , Tiecher Tales
Published: June 2024

Grain crops have expanded at the expense of native grasslands in South America's Pampa biome in recent decades, thereby, increasing the sediment delivery to the river systems. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of land use change on sediment source contributions in the Ibirapuitã catchment (5942 km2), Southern Brazil. For this purpose, a sediment fingerprinting approach was developed based on organic matter composition, ultraviolet–visible reflectance, and fallout radionuclide activities as potential tracers. Four main sediment sources were investigated: croplands (n = 36), native grasslands (n = 31), unpaved roads (n = 31), and subsurface sources (n = 34). Tracers were selected following a three‐step procedure: conservative range test, Kruskal–Wallis H‐test, and linear discriminant function analysis (LDA). Selected tracers were introduced into a mass balance mixing model to estimate the source contributions to in‐stream sediment. The seven tracers selected by the LDA were able to explain 91% of the variance and correctly classify 83% of the source samples. Despite covering less than 10% of the catchment surface area, croplands that replaced the native grasslands supplied the primary sediment source (33%) to the main outlet, followed by subsurface sources (27%). In contrast, native grasslands covering 80% of the surface area provided only 17% of sediment to the river network. These findings confirm that soil erosion processes are accelerating in response to the recent land use changes in the region. To prevent soil loss and sediment delivery to the river systems, land use conversion from native grasslands into croplands should be associated with the implementation of appropriate land conservation practices, such as runoff control, no‐tillage system, and crop rotation.
Topological Directional Coupler
Authors: Li Yandong , Jung Minwoo , Yu Yang , Han Yuchen , Zhang Baile , Shvets Gennady
Published: June 2024

Interferometers and beam splitters are fundamental building blocks for photonic neuromorphic and quantum computing machinery. In waveguide‐based photonic integrated circuits, beam‐splitting is achieved with directional couplers that rely on transition regions where the waveguides are adiabatically bent to suppress back‐reflection. In this study, a novel, compact approach for introducing guided mode coupling is presented. Along the multimodal domain wall between topological photonic crystals, the photonic spin is conserved to suppress back‐reflection, and the topological protection of the valley degree of freedom is relaxed to implement tunable beam splitting. Rapid advancements in chip‐scale topological photonics suggest that the proposed simultaneous utilization of multiple topological degrees of freedom could benefit the development of novel photonic computing platforms.
Europium Ions Self‐Reduction Benefiting from AlO4/Si(Al)O4 Network Structure for Multimode Optical Thermometry Manometry
Authors: Lu Ruiying , Zhang Xinyao , Fang Yuanyuan , Wu Xue , Jia Mochen , Wang Kai , Wu Jinfei , Li Qian , Sun Zhen
Published: June 2024

Mixed‐valence europium ions‐activated phosphors have distinct advantages in color modulation, dynamic anti‐counterfeiting, and optical sensors. Nevertheless, it is still a challenge to obtain mixed‐valence europium ions in single compounds by facile self‐reduction. Herein, the crystal structure of a 3D hexagonal network formed by SiO4/AlO4 tetrahedra is demonstrated to play a significant role in the spontaneous reduction of Eu3+ to Eu2+ based on SrAl2Si2O8, Sr2SiO4, SrAl2O4 hosts. The crystal field theory and Judd‐Ofelt theory provide a deeper understanding of Eu2+ and Eu3+ luminescence behavior, namely, the low energy spectra of Eu2+ are more easily observed in crystal structure with high polarizability and octahedral coordination, whereas the spectra properties of Eu3+ are affected by the symmetry of local environment and crystal rigidity. For SrAl2Si2O8: 0.02Eu2+/Eu3+, multi‐mode thermometry is explored in terms of the luminescence intensity ratio (LIR) of Eu2+/Eu3+, luminescence intensity (LI) and full‐width at half maximum (FWHM) of Eu2+ with maximal relative sensitivity reaching 3.83% K−1. This study presents the first exploration of optical manometry based on the LIR mode of Eu2+/Eu3+ with excellent sensitivity (Sr = 18.13% GPa−1). This work not only provides a novel strategy for the design of mixed‐valence ions‐activated materials but also constructs promising optical thermometry, and manometry candidates.
Show me the outputs! The influence of charitable outputs and charitable cause phrasing on charitable giving
Authors: Tang Fan , Hou Jundong
Published: June 2024

Charitable outputs, the immediate effects of charitable organization services, are among the most vital messages for encouraging rational giving, and different outputs should thus affect fundraising effectiveness. However, this topic has received relatively little attention from scholars. Fundraising practice includes two types of charitable outputs—goods‐oriented and services‐oriented, raising the question of how charitable organizations should use these two types of charitable outputs to increase donor support. The findings of four main experimental studies show that the fit of the types of charitable outputs and charitable cause phrasing can promote charitable giving. Specifically, goods‐oriented (vs. services‐oriented) charitable outputs have a better facilitating effect when charitable cause phrasing is concrete (vs. abstract). We also find evidence for the mediating role of ability perception and effort perception in this effect of fit, reflecting different formative pathways that influence individuals' giving. Our research proposes a categorization perspective of charitable outputs and provides managerial guidance for designing fundraising messages.
Selective and Sensitive Detection of Fe3+ Ions Using a Red‐Emissive Fluorescent Probe Based on Triphenylamine and Perylene‐Linked Conjugated Microporous Polymer
Authors: Madhu Manivannan , Santhoshkumar S. , Hsiao Ching‐Wen , Tseng Wei Lung , Kuo Shiao‐Wei , Mohamed Mohamed Gamal
Published: June 2024

The Expansion of modern industry underscores the urgent need to address heavy metal pollution, which is a threat to human‐health and environment. Efforts are underwent to develop precise technologies for detecting heavy metal ions (M+‐ion). One promising approach involves the use of Conjugated Microporous Polymers (CMPs) modified with Triphenylamine (TPA) anderylene (Peryl), known as TPA‐Peryl‐CMP, which emits strong refluorescence. Various analytical techniques, such as Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), are utilized to characterize the synthesized TPA‐Peryl‐CMP and understand its functional properties. In addition to its remarkable fluorescence behavior, TPA‐Peryl‐CMP shows promise as a sensor for Fe3+ ions using a turn‐off strategy. Due to its exceptional stability and robust π‐electron system, this platform demonstrates remarkable sensitivity and selectivity, significantly improving detection capabilities for specific analytes. Detailed procedures related to the mechanism for detecting Fe3+ ions are outlined for sensing Fe3+ ions, revealing a notably strong linear correlation within the concentration range of 0–3 µM, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9936 and the Limit of detection (LOD) 20 nM. It is anticipated that development of such a kind of TPA‐Peryl‐CMP will observe broader applications in detecting various analytes related to environmental and biological systems.
In Situ Growth of Highly Compatible Cu2O‐GO Hybrids Via Amino‐Modification for Melt‐Spun Efficient Antibacterial Polyamide 6 Fibers
Authors: Wang Ruixue , Zhou Jialiang , Xiang Hengxue , Hu Zexu , Yu Senlong , Zhai Gongxun , Zhu Liping , Zhu Meifang
Published: June 2024

Polyamide 6 (PA6) fiber has the advantages of high strength and good wear resistance. However, it is still challenging to effectively load inorganic antibacterial agents into polymer substrates without antimicrobial activity. In this work, graphene oxide is used as a carrier, which is modified with an aminosilane coupling agent (AEAPTMS) to enhance the compatibility and antimicrobial properties of the inorganic material, as well as to improve its thermal stability in a high‐temperature melting environment. Cuprous oxide‐loaded aminated grapheme (Cu2O‐GO‐NH2) is constructed by in situ growth method, and further PA6/Cu2O‐GO‐NH2 fibers are prepared by in situ polymerization. The composite fiber has excellent washing resistance. After 50 times of washing, its bactericidal rates against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli are 98.85% and 99.99%, respectively. In addition, the enhanced compatibility of Cu2O‐GO‐NH2 with the PA6 matrix improves the orientation and crystallinity of the composite fibers. Compared with PA6/Cu2O‐GO fibers, the fracture strength of PA6/Cu2O‐GO‐NH2 fibers increases from 3.0 to 4.2 cN/dtex when the addition of Cu2O‐GO‐NH2 is 0.2 wt%. Chemical modification and in situ concepts help to improve the compatibility of inorganic antimicrobial agents with organic polymers, which can be applied to the development of medical textiles.
Time–Temperature‐Transformation (TTT) Cure Diagram of an Epoxy–Amine System
Authors: Strasser Claire , Moukhina Elena , Hartmann Jürgen
Published: June 2024

A time–temperature‐transformation diagram is created for the curing reaction of a diglycidylether bisphenol A (DGEBA)‐based epoxy resin. It results from a kinetic analysis performed by means of dynamical differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements; a gelation curve determined with isothermal and dynamical rheological tests; and a vitrification curve obtained from temperature‐modulated dynamic DSC measurements. The resulting diagram is validated by comparison of isothermal measurements with the corresponding calculated curves.
Lignin‐Based Multilamellar Aggregates for Removing Ofloxacin Antibiotic: A Dissipative Particle Dynamics Simulation Study
Authors: Zhu Guodian , Shang Jingqi , Xie Shaoqu , Li Yuanyuan , Zhao Lisha , Yin Guoqiang
Published: June 2024

Lignin, a renewable aromatic polymer, has great potential as a synthetic building block for functional materials. The effects of quaternary ammonic methylation of alkali lignin (AL) on the morphologies and ofloxacin antibiotic (OA) removal application from water are investigated by using the dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) simulation method. Untreated AL can form spherical aggregates, but the phenylpropane units of untreated AL and loaded broad‐spectrum OA molecules are randomly distributed in aggregates. However, if quaternary ammonic groups are grafted onto all orthopositions of the phenolic hydroxyl groups (100‐QAMAL), then multilamellar spherical aggregates are obtained and OA molecules are entrapped in the aggregates. To prepare multilamellar spherical aggregates with an ordered and regular layered structure, <15 v% of 100‐QAMAL and low molecular weights of AL (≈4700–9400 Da) are suggested to be used. Lignin‐based multilamellar spherical aggregates can be adopted as potential functional carriers for removing pollutant OA from water.
Optimal control approach for moving bottom detection in one‐dimensional shallow waters by surface measurements
Authors: Lecaros R. , López‐Ríos J. , Montecinos G. I. , Zuazua E.
Published: June 2024

We consider the Boussinesq‐Peregrine (BP) system as described by Lannes [Lannes, D. (2013). The water waves problem: mathematical analysis and asymptotics (Vol. 188). American Mathematical Soc.], within the shallow water regime, and study the inverse problem of determining the time and space variations of the channel bottom profile, from measurements of the wave profile and its velocity on the free surface. A well‐posedness result within a Sobolev framework for (BP), considering a time dependent bottom, is presented. Then, the inverse problem is reformulated as a nonlinear PDE‐constrained optimization one. An existence result of the minimum, under constraints on the admissible set of bottoms, is presented. Moreover, an implementation of the gradient descent approach, via the adjoint method, is considered. For solving numerically both, the forward (BP) and its adjoint system, we derive a universal and low‐dissipation scheme, which contains non‐conservative products. The scheme is based on the FORCE‐
method proposed in [Toro, E. F., Saggiorato, B., Tokareva, S., and Hidalgo, A. (2020). Low‐dissipation centred schemes for hyperbolic equations in conservative and non‐conservative form. Journal of Computational Physics, 416, 109545]. Finally, we implement this methodology to recover three different bottom profiles; a smooth bottom, a discontinuous one, and a continuous profile with a large gradient. We compare with two classical discretizations for (BP) and the adjoint system. These results corroborate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology to recover bottom profiles.
The (2+1)‐dimensional Schwarzian Korteweg–de Vries equation and its generalizations with discrete Lax matrices
Authors: Liu Weifang , Cao Cewen , Yang Xiao , Xu Xiaoxue
Published: June 2024

By using the discrete Lax matrices corresponding to
and
in the Adler–Bobenko–Suris list of quadrilateral lattice equations, we establish solutions of the (2+1)‐dimensional Schwarzian Korteweg–de Vries (SKdV) equation and its generalizations. According to the structure of integrable Hamiltonian systems provided by one discrete Lax matrix for the
lattice, we construct a novel Lax representation for the (2+1)‐dimensional SKdV equation. On the basis of the Riemann surface and elliptic variables, the Hamiltonian phase flows related to the equation are linearized by the Abel–Jacobi coordinates. Consequently, we obtain finite genus solutions to the (2+1)‐dimensional SKdV equation. From the discrete Lax matrix of the
lattice, we study the generalized (2+1)‐dimensional SKdV equation with a parameter
, which can be reduced to a simple case of the Krichever–Novikov equation. Finally, we show that the case of
can also be solved through a modified version of the other discrete Lax matrix for the
equation.
An online training resource for clinicians to optimise exercise prescription for persistent low back pain: Design, development and usability testing
Authors: Wood Lianne , Dean Sarah , Booth Vicky , Hayden Jill A. , Foster Nadine E.
Published: June 2024

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is the leading cause of disability worldwide. A recent realist review identified the behavioural mechanisms of trust, motivation, and confidence as key to optimising exercise prescription for persistent LBP.

Objectives

Our objectives were to (1) design and develop an online training programme, and (2) gain end‐user feedback on the useability, usefulness, informativeness and confidence in using the online training programme using a mixed‐methods, pre‐post study design.

Participants and Intervention

The online training programme was designed and developed using the results from a realist review, and input from a multi‐disciplinary stakeholder group. A five‐module online training programme was piloted by the first 10 respondents who provided feedback on the course. Further modifications were made prior to additional piloting. The satisfaction, usefulness, ease of use, and confidence of clinicians in applying the learned principles were assessed on completion.

Results

The online programme was advertised to clinicians using social media. Forty‐four respondents expressed initial interest, of which 22 enrolled and 18 completed the course. Of the participants, most were physiotherapists (n = 16/18, 88.9%), aged between 30 and 49 (n = 11/18, 61.1%). All participants were satisfied with the course content, rated the course platform as easy to use and useful, and reported that they were very confident to apply the learning. Most (n = 10/14, 71.4%) reported that their manner of prescribing exercise had changed after completion of the course.

Conclusions

An online training programme to optimise exercise prescription for persistent LBP appears to be easy to use, informative and improves confidence to apply the learning.
Validating the use of body mass index with computed tomography in a racially and ethnically diverse cohort of patients admitted with SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Sheean Patricia , O'Connor Paula , Joyce Cara , Wozniak Amy , Vasilopoulos A. Vasilios , Seigal Jared , Formanek Perry
Published: June 2024

Background

Body mass index (BMI) is criticized for being unjust and biased in relatively healthy racial and ethnic groups. Therefore, the current analysis examines if BMI predicts body composition, specifically adiposity, in a racially and ethnically diverse acutely ill patient population.

Methods

Patients admitted with SARS‐CoV‐2 having an evaluable diagnostic chest, abdomen, and/or pelvic computed tomography (CT) study (within 5 days of admission) were included in this retrospective cohort. Cross‐sectional areas (centimeters squared) of the subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and intramuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) were quantified. Total adipose tissue (TAT) was calculated as sum of these areas. Admission height and weight were applied to calculate BMI, and self‐reported race and ethnicity were used for classification. General linear regression models were conducted to estimate correlations and assess differences between groups.

Results

On average, patients (n = 134) were aged 58.2 (SD = 19.1) years, 60% male, and racially and ethnically diverse (33% non‐Hispanic White [NHW], 33% non‐Hispanic Black [NHB], 34% Hispanic). Correlations between BMI and SAT and BMI and TAT were strongest revealing estimates of 0.707 (0.585, 0.829) and 0.633 (0.534, 0.792), respectively. When examining the various adiposity compartments across race and ethnicity, correlations were similar and significant differences were not detected for TAT with SAT, VAT, or IMAT (all P ≥ 0.05).

Conclusions

These findings support the routine use of applying BMI as a proxy measure of total adiposity for acutely ill patients identifying as NHW, NHB, and Hispanic. Our results inform the validity and utility of this tool in clinical nutrition practice.
Integration of ground geophysical methods to characterize near‐surface aquifer zones within an active mine
Authors: Gomo Sikelela , Mutshafa Ndamulelo , Dildar Jureya , Manzi Musa S. D. , Bourdeau Julie E. , Brodic Bojan , James Ian , Cooper Gordon R. J. , Durrheim Raymond J.
Published: June 2024

Understanding near‐surface groundwater storage, flow patterns, surface and groundwater interactions in mining areas can assist in making mining more efficient and profitable. This is especially important in opencast mines affected by water inflows that may negatively affect production and increase mining costs. We map and characterize the near‐surface aquifer zones at the opencast site of Tharisa Minerals, located in the southwestern region of the Bushveld Complex (South Africa). The main goal is to infer pit water inflow at the mine site and determine how it may be better controlled. The Bushveld Complex hosts partially connected and unconfined alluvial, shallow‐weathered and crystalline bedrock aquifers, which are often connected by small‐scale permeable zones. Seismic refraction tomography, multichannel analysis of surface waves, electrical resistivity tomography and borehole data are used to map and understand the different aquifer zones in the vicinity of the mine, as well as infer their relation to water inflow in the mine pits. The geophysical surveys map the overburden, weathered bedrock aquifer zone, and the top of the crystalline aquifer rock zone reasonably well. They reveal extensive and deep weathering, and possible high hydraulic conductivity in the vicinity of the mine. The results provide a better understanding of the mine's near‐surface environment, which could be used to implement effective and targeted dewatering techniques, thus enabling better pit inflow water control to improve mine working conditions and production.