bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progress of research on aroma absorption mechanism and aroma fixation pathway of jasmine green tea
Authors: Wang Yueguang , Huang Zifeng , Zhou Taoyi , Li Charlie , Sun Yilan , Pang Jie
Published: June 2024

This overview summarizes the latest research progress on the aroma absorption mechanism and aroma fixation pathway of jasmine green tea, and discusses in depth the aroma absorption mechanism of green tea, the aroma release mechanism of jasmine flowers, as well as the absorption and fixation mechanism of the aroma components of jasmine green tea in the process of scenting, to provide a theoretical basis for the improvement of the quality of jasmine green tea and the innovation of processing technology. It was found that the aroma absorption mechanism of jasmine green tea is mainly associated with both physical and chemical adsorption, aroma release in jasmine involves the phenylpropanoid/benzoin biosynthetic pathway, β‐glycosidase enzymes interpreting putative glycosidic groups, and heat shock proteins (HSPs) as molecular chaperones to prevent stress damage in postharvest flowers due to high temperatures and to promote the release of aroma components, and so forth. The preparation of aroma‐protein nano‐complexes, heat stress microcapsules, and the spraying of polymeric substances – β‐cyclodextrin are three examples of aroma‐fixing pathways. This overview also summarizes the problems and future development trends of the current research and proposes the method of loading benzyl acetate, the main aroma component of jasmine, through konjac glucomannan (KGM)‐based gel to solve the problem of volatile aroma and difficult‐to‐fix aroma, which provides a reference for the sustainable development of the jasmine green tea industry. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Orange passion fruit (Passiflora caerulea L.) as a new raw material for acetic fermentation: evaluation of organic acids and phenolic profile, in vitro digestion, and biological activities
Authors: da Silva Monteiro Wanderley Bruna Rafaela , de Lima Natália Duarte , Deolindo Carolina Turnes Pasini , Ansiliero Rafaela , Kempka Aniela Pinto , Moroni Liziane Schittler , Louredo Francisca Jamila Correia , Gonzaga Luciano Valdemiro , Costa Ana Carolina Oliveira , Amboni Renata Dias De Mello Castanho , de Sena Aquino Ana Carolina Moura , Fritzen‐Freire Carlise Beddin
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated for the first time the potential of orange passion fruit as a base for alcoholic and acetic fermentations, with a view to assessing its profile of organic acids and polyphenols, in vitro digestion, and biological activities.

RESULTS

In terms of aliphatic organic acids, malic acid was the majority in the wine (3.19 g L−1), while in the vinegar, it was acetic acid (46.84 g L−1). 3,4‐Dihydroxybenzoic acid (3,4‐DHB) was the major phenolic compound in the wine and vinegar samples (3443.93 and 2980.00 μg L−1, respectively). After the in vitro gastrointestinal simulation stage, the wine showed high bioaccessibility for the compounds sinipaldehyde (82.97%) and 2,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,4‐DHBA, 81.27%), while the vinegar exhibited high bioaccessibility for sinipaldehyde (89.39%). Through multivariate analysis, it was observed that 3,4‐DHB was highly concentrated in the different digested fractions obtained from the wine. In contrast, in the vinegar, the stability of isorahmenetin and Quercetin 3‐o‐rhamnoside was observed during the in vitro digestion simulation. Lastly, the vinegar stood out for its inhibition rates of α‐amylase (23.93%), α‐glucoside (18.34%), and angiotensin‐converting enzyme (10.92%). In addition, the vinegar had an inhibitory effect on the pathogenic microorganisms Salmonella enteritidis, Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes.

CONCLUSION

Orange passion fruit has proved to be a promising raw material for the development of fermented beverages. Therefore, this study provides an unprecedented perspective on the use and valorization of orange passion fruit, contributing significantly to the advancement of knowledge about fermented products and the associated nutritional and functional possibilities. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Endoscopic Distance and its Impact on Quantified Age‐related Vocal Fold Atrophy Measures
Authors: Aboueisha Mohamed A. , Sauder Cara , Jaleel Zaroug , Fatahallah Yasmine , Adcock Kelson , Al‐awadi Hamzah , Jafari Aria , Bhatt Neel K.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The bowing index (BI) and normalized glottal gap area (NGGA) are used to quantify vocal fold morphology in ARVA; however, the influence of the distance between the flexible laryngoscope lens and the target area is not known. The goal is to test whether the endoscopic distance impacts vocal fold morphology measurements in patients with ARVA during flexible video laryngostroboscopy (VLS).

Method

Patients with ARVA who underwent VLS were included. Images were classified into near (close to the petiole of the epiglottis) and far (below nasopharynx, with tongue base and entire epiglottis visible) conditions. BI was calculated using a mobile application, and NGGA was measured using ImageJ.

Results

This study included 23 patients; the mean age was 77 ± 7 years. Mean BI measured at the near distance was higher than far distances with a mean difference of 1.94 (95% CI: 0.92–2.96, p = 0.001). NGGA showed difference with changed distance −0.24 (95% CI: −0.48 to 0.01, p < 0.05).When stratifying patients into two groups based on median BI measurement, there was a statistically significant difference between near and far conditions, with increased BI in the near condition for patients above the median (p < 0.05), but no difference between the near and far condition for patients with BI below the median.

Conclusion

The BI and NGGA were impacted by the endoscopic distance during flexible VLS. BI was significantly higher in the near condition compared with the far condition. The difference in BI between the near and far conditions was more pronounced when the vocal fold bowing was greater. These findings call for heightened awareness of measurement discrepancies secondary to the endoscopic distance during flexible laryngostroboscopy.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 134:4649–4655, 2024
Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Bio‐Based Polyamide 56/6 Filled with Talc
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqi , Yang Haoyu , Liu Yiming , Liu Jilin , Zhou Jie , Liu Wentao
Published: June 2024

Polyamide composites with varying filler concentrations are prepared using the hot melt extrusion method, employing polyamide 56/6 (PA56/6) and modified talc as fillers. Initially, the thermal characteristics of PA56/6 composites (PA56/6‐talc) are examined through thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), encompassing parameters such as melting temperature, crystallinity, and decomposition temperature. The hydrophilicity and barrier properties of PA56/6‐talc are assessed using an optical contact angle meter, a water vapor transmission rate tester, and an oxygen transmission rate tester. Furthermore, the mechanical properties of PA56/6‐talc are also scrutinized. The results indicate that PA56/6 exhibits superior hydrophobic, barrier, and mechanical properties, thereby demonstrating its immense potential in garment fabrics and packaging materials.
Spider minor ampullate silk protein nanoparticles: an effective protein delivery system capable of enhancing systemic immune responses
Authors: Yu Hairui , Chen Gefei , Li Linchao , Wei Guoqiang , Li Yanan , Xiong Sidong , Qi Xingmei
Published: June 2024

Spider silk proteins (spidroins) are particularly attractive due to their excellent biocompatibility. Spider can produce up to seven different types of spidroins, each with unique properties and functions. Spider minor ampullate silk protein (MiSp) might be particularly interesting for biomedical applications, as the constituent silk is mechanically strong and does not super‐contract in water, attributed to its amino acid composition. In this study, we evaluate the potential of recombinant nanoparticles derived from Araneus ventricosus MiSp as a protein delivery carrier. The MiSp‐based nanoparticles were able to serve as an effective delivery system, achieving nearly 100% efficiency in loading the model protein lysozyme, and displayed a sustained release profile at physiological pH. These nanoparticles could significantly improve the delivery efficacy of the model proteins through different administration routes. Furthermore, nanoparticles loaded with model protein antigen lysozyme after subcutaneous or intramuscular administration could enhance antigen‐specific immune responses in mouse models, through a mechanism involving antigen‐depot effects at the injection site, long‐term antigen persistence, and efficient uptake by dendritic cells as well as internalization by lymph nodes. These findings highlight the transnational potential of MiSp‐based nanoparticle system for protein drug and vaccine delivery.
Natural killer cells in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Wang DanRu , Dou LingYun , Sui LiHao , Xue Yiquan , Xu Sheng
Published: June 2024

Natural killer (NK) cells, as innate lymphocytes, possess cytotoxic capabilities and engage target cells through a repertoire of activating and inhibitory receptors. Particularly, natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) receptor on NK cells recognizes stress‐induced ligands—the MHC class I chain‐related molecules A and B (MICA/B) presented on tumor cells and is key to trigger the cytolytic response of NK cells. However, tumors have developed sophisticated strategies to evade NK cell surveillance, which lead to failure of tumor immunotherapy. In this paper, we summarized these immune escaping strategies, including the downregulation of ligands for activating receptors, upregulation of ligands for inhibitory receptors, secretion of immunosuppressive compounds, and the development of apoptosis resistance. Then, we focus on recent advancements in NK cell immune therapies, which include engaging activating NK cell receptors, upregulating NKG2D ligand MICA/B expression, blocking inhibitory NK cell receptors, adoptive NK cell therapy, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐engineered NK cells (CAR‐NK), and NKG2D CAR‐T cells, especially several vaccines targeting MICA/B. This review will inspire the research in NK cell biology in tumor and provide significant hope for improving cancer treatment outcomes by harnessing the potent cytotoxic activity of NK cells.
Responsive Versus Continuous Deep Brain Stimulation for Speech in Essential Tremor: A Pilot Study
Authors: Cernera Stephanie , Long Sarah , Kelberman Madison , Hegland Karen W. , Hicks Julie , Smith‐Hublou May , Taylor Bryn , Mou Yuhan , de Hemptinne Coralie , Johnson Kara A. , Cagle Jackson N. , Moore Kathryn , Foote Kelly D. , Okun Michael S. , Gunduz Aysegul
Published: June 2024

Background

Responsive deep brain stimulation (rDBS) uses physiological signals to deliver stimulation when needed. rDBS is hypothesized to reduce stimulation‐induced speech effects associated with continuous DBS (cDBS) in patients with essential tremor (ET).

Objective

To determine if rDBS reduces cDBS speech‐related side effects while maintaining tremor suppression.

Methods

Eight ET participants with thalamic DBS underwent unilateral rDBS. Both speech evaluations and tremor severity were assessed across three conditions (DBS OFF, cDBS ON, and rDBS ON). Speech was analyzed using intelligibility ratings. Tremor severity was scored using the Fahn‐Tolosa‐Marin Tremor Rating Scale (TRS).

Results

During unilateral cDBS, participants experienced reduced speech intelligibility (P = 0.025) compared to DBS OFF. rDBS was not associated with a deterioration of intelligibility. Both rDBS (P = 0.026) and cDBS (P = 0.038) improved the contralateral TRS score compared to DBS OFF.

Conclusions

rDBS maintained speech intelligibility without loss of tremor suppression. A larger prospective chronic study of rDBS in ET is justified. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Cubic Hermite interpolators on the space of probability measures
Authors: Adouani Ines , Samir Chafik , Tran Tien Tam
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we introduce a novel two‐step modeling method to generalize cubic Hermite interpolators on the space of probability measures
. First, we develop new approaches to capture the Riemannian geometric structure of
when equipped with Fisher–Rao metric. Furthermore, we develop and detail all numerical tools on
, namely, Levi–Civita connection, minimal geodesics, parallel transport, exponential map, and logarithm map. Then, we demonstrate that preliminary analysis results yield significant benefits in constructing an optimal cubic Hermite spline on
as a nonlinear Riemannian manifold, precisely where conventional numerical methods fail.
On the fractional Laplacian of a function with respect to another function
Authors: Fernandez Arran , Restrepo Joel E. , Djida Jean‐Daniel
Published: June 2024

The theories of fractional Laplacians and of fractional calculus with respect to functions are combined to produce, for the first time, the concept of a fractional Laplacian with respect to a bijective function. The theory is developed both in the 1‐dimensional setting and in the general
‐dimensional setting. Fourier transforms with respect to functions are also defined, and the relationships between Fourier transforms, fractional Laplacians, and Marchaud‐type derivatives are explored. Function spaces for these operators are carefully defined, including weighted
spaces and a new type of Schwartz space. The theory developed is then applied to construct solutions to some partial differential equations involving both fractional time derivatives and fractional Laplacians with respect to functions, with illustrative examples.
Tikhonov regularization for simultaneous inversion of initial value and source term of a time‐fractional Black‐Scholes equation
Authors: Wu Hanghang , Yang Hongqi
Published: June 2024

This paper studies simultaneous inversion of initial value and source term of a time‐fractional Black‐Scholes equation. This problem is ill‐posed, and we use Tikhonov regularization method to solve it. Under the selection rules of a priori and a posteriori regularization parameters, a priori and a posteriori Hölder type error estimates are derived. Finally, numerical experiments demonstrate the stability and effectiveness of the proposed regularization method.
Sciatic nerve fascicle differentiation on high‐resolution ultrasound with histological verification: An ex vivo study
Authors: Snoj Žiga , Pušnik Luka , Cvetko Erika , Burica Matičič Urša , Jengojan Suren Armeni , Omejec Gregor
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Aims

The development of high‐resolution ultrasound (HRUS) has enabled the depiction of peripheral nerve microanatomy in vivo. This study compared HRUS fascicle differentiation to the structural depiction in histological cross‐sections (HCS).

Methods

A human cadaveric sciatic nerve was marked with 10 surgical sutures, and HRUS image acquisition was performed with a 22‐MHz probe. The nerve was excised and cut into five segments for HCS preparation. Selected HCS were cross‐referenced to HRUS, with sutures to improve orientation. Sciatic nerve and fascicle contouring were performed to assess nerve and fascicular cross‐sectional area (CSA), fascicle count, and interfascicular distances. Three groups were defined based on HRUS fascicle differentiation in comparison to HCS, namely single fascicle (SF), fascicular cluster (FC), and no depiction (ND) group.

Results

On cross‐referenced HRUS to HCS images, 58% of fascicles were differentiated. On HRUS, significantly larger fascicle CSA and smaller fascicle count were observed compared with HCS. Group analysis showed that 41% of fascicles were defined as SF, 47% as FC, and 12% as ND. The mean fascicle CSA in the ND group was 0.05 mm2. Compared with the SF, the FC had significantly larger fascicle CSA (1.2 ± 0.7 vs. 0.6 ± 0.4 mm2; p < .001) and shorter interfascicular distances (0.1 ± 0.04 vs. 0.5 ± 0.3 μm; p < .001).

Discussion

While HRUS can depict fascicular anatomy, only half of the fascicles visualized on HRUS directly correspond to single fascicles observed on HCS. The amount of interfascicular epineurium appears to influence the ability of HRUS to differentiate individual fascicles.
Firm decisions and government subsidies in a supply chain with consumer surplus consideration
Authors: Xiao Yongbo , Zhang Xiuyi , Wu Xiaole
Published: June 2024

This paper considers a supply chain that consists of a manufacturer and a retailer, who concern their respective profits as well as consumer welfare. Each firm's objective is modelled as a weighted sum of its profit and consumer surplus, with the weight on consumer surplus representing the concern level of the firm. We first examine a push supply chain where the manufacturer determines the wholesale price and the retailer determines the order quantity. We derive the optimal decisions and investigate the impact of the firms' consumer surplus consideration on the interactive decisions of the supply chain members and the overall performance of the supply chain. We show that a higher level of retailer's consumer concern does not necessarily lead to higher consumer surplus because her concern on consumers may be exploited by the manufacturer to improve his objective; and the manufacturer's concern on consumers may not benefit the retailer in terms of her profit, especially when the manufacturer's concern level is relatively low. Nevertheless, compared to the for‐profit supply chain, concern on consumer surplus could be beneficial to both firms' profits as well as consumer surplus, inducing a “win‐win‐win” situation under certain conditions. Furthermore, as a social planner, the government seeks to optimize social welfare by adopting subsidy policies, and we examine two types of intervention policies, that is, subsidizing firms and subsidizing consumers. We show that when subsidizing firms, government's quantity‐based subsidy is always more cost‐effective than sales‐based subsidy. As the firms' concern levels become higher or the demand uncertainty becomes lower, subsidizing consumers can achieve higher social welfare than subsidizing firms. Moreover, we examine the impact of the government's budget constraint and concern level on consumer surplus, and extend the analysis to a pull supply chain to show the robustness of the major findings.
Simultaneous improvement of tensile strength and toughness of polylactic acid by incorporating a biodegradable core‐shell nanofiller with double polymer layers
Authors: Gao Yuan , Peng Zhiyuan , Deng Tianbo , Zhang Ling , Li Chunzhong
Published: June 2024

While blending with flexible polymers has been a commonly employed strategy to enhance the toughness of polylactic acid (PLA), it's still a great challenge to avoid the sacrifice of tensile strength at the same time. In this work, we demonstrate a promising route to simultaneously improve the strength and toughness of PLA by compounding PLA with poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) and PLA grafted multi‐walled carbon nanotubes core‐shell nanofiller (MWNT‐PCLPLA) via a two‐step ring‐opening polymerization and have analyzed the strengthening and toughening mechanism through molecular dynamics simulation. The double polymer layers of MWNT‐PCLPLA effectively improve the interfacial interaction between MWNTs and the matrix, in which the outer PLA layer has the same molecular structure with the matrix and facilitates stress transfer, while the flexible PCL layer can absorb energy through self‐deformation and induce local plastic deformation of the matrix. When the content of MWNTs was only 1 wt%, the strength and elongation at break of PLA/MWNT‐PCLPLA nanocomposites were increased by 47.92% and 690.11% compared to neat PLA. Furthermore, the toughness of nanocomposites reached 11.93 MJ/m3, which is about 16 times that of neat PLA. This novel core‐shell nanofiller with double polymer layers is expected to be further applied in other polymer systems.

Highlights

A core‐shell nanofiller with double polymer layers was synthesized.

Improved dispersion and interfacial compatibility of nanofillers in matrix.

The crystallization ability of PLA was improved by functionalized MWNTs.

Simultaneously improved strength and toughness of PLA/MWNT‐PCLPLA nanocomposite.
Review on functionalized CNTs reinforced silicone rubber composites for potential wearable applications
Authors: Kumar Vineet , Alam Md. Najib , Park Sang‐Shin
Published: June 2024

Wearable technology refers to the devices that are integrated with textiles, or implanted in the body or plants for smart monitoring. Hence, this wearable technology has attracted tremendous attention from researchers globally due to its smart functions to be useful for mankind. The key target of this review is to examine the potential of rubber composite materials for such wearable devices. The rubber composites reviewed explore silicone rubber as a rubber matrix (SR). Another objective includes the use of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in pristine and functionalization forms explored as reinforcing fillers. Moreover, prospects of CNT including their structure, properties, and types are explored both in pristine and functionalized state are reviewed. Following this, the mechanical, and electrical, properties of such composites are reviewed. The reported results show that the reinforcing properties are strongly improved by adding functional groups to CNT in rubber composite. These improvements in reinforcing properties are assisted by the functional groups like carboxyl (OH), carbonyl (CO), epoxy, and alkoxy (CO) on the surface of filler are useful. They assist in improving the filler‐rubber compatibility thereby improving filler dispersion and thus finally mechanical and electrical properties. Following this, such improved properties are explored for specific real‐time wearable technologies. This real‐time monitoring includes nursing plant pulse growth monitoring, health monitoring, and humidity sensors. The review further proposes that the functionalized CNTs can be useful for obtaining robust real‐time strain‐sensing monitoring. Moreover, it assists in obtaining sharp response time, strain sensitivity, and good stretchability. Finally, the prospects and challenges are explored discussing the real‐time monitoring of these sensors.

Highlights

Configurations for nursing plant growth and other monitoring parameters are reviewed.

The properties of pristine and functionalized carbon nanotubes reinforced silicone rubber for wearable technology were reviewed.

The mechanical, and electrical aspects of functionalized carbon nanotubes were comparatively reviewed.

Applications such as wearable strain sensors, humidity sensors, and wearable plant pulse monitoring sensors were reported.
Parametric study on pyroelectric performances of functionally graded graphene nanoplatelet reinforced polyvinylidene fluoride composites
Authors: Zeng Bowen , Feng Chuang
Published: June 2024

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) with pyroelectric properties has demonstrated great potential in sensors, actuators and structural health monitoring. However, the low content of β phase and the secondary pyroelectricity induced by thermal expansion limit its pyroelectric performances for a broader range of applications. In this work, graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) that have excellent physical properties are added to PVDF to improve the matrix's pyroelectric properties. To fully take advantage of the reinforcements, PVDF composite films with functionally graded (FG) distribution of GNP fillers are prepared. The pyroelectric properties of the FG films that are subjected to different scenarios are experimentally tested and analyzed. Combining experiments and finite element simulation, the secondary pyroelectricity of the multi‐layered FG films is particularly investigated for the first time. Compared to uniform dispersion, FG distribution of the GNP has an obvious effect on the pyroelectric performances of the PVDF composites. The increase in the number of layers and the thickness of the outer layers is beneficial for the improvement of the pyroelectric performances. The FG films with higher GNP concentration in the outer layer exhibit more favorable pyroelectricity. The parametric study is envisaged to provide guidelines for the design and optimization of the FG‐GNP/PVDF composites with improved pyroelectric performances.

Highlights

FG‐GNP is favorable for pyroelectricity and stability of PVDF composite films.

GNP/PVDF composite films with more layers demonstrate superior pyroelectricity.

Attributes of layers have significant effects on pyroelectric responses.

Effects of factors associated with secondary pyroelectricity are quantitatively identified.
Perspectives of pregnant women on broadening the scope of noninvasive prenatal testing from screening for foetal aneuploidies to prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes: A qualitative study
Authors: Becking Ellis C. , Henneman Lidewij , Crombag Neeltje M. T. H. , Bertorotta Janneke , Rijsbergen Ylana , Bax Caroline J. , van Vliet‐Lachotzki Elsbeth , Scheffer Peter G. , Bekker Mireille N.
Published: June 2024

Objective

To explore the perspectives of pregnant women on broadening the scope of noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) from screening for foetal aneuploidies to prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

Four online focus groups (n = 23 participants) and 14 individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted. Participants included pregnant women with and without a history of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Results

Both women at low and high risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes had a positive attitude towards using NIPT to predict adverse pregnancy outcomes. Perceived benefits included the possibility to potentially improve maternal and foetal outcomes by taking risk‐reducing measures and/or intensified monitoring during pregnancy and the ability to mentally prepare for the potential adverse outcome. Perceived concerns included anxiety and stress caused by a high‐risk test result, a false sense of control over pregnancy, and potential false reassurance. Additionally, women reasoned that broadening the scope of NIPT could increase the complexity of prenatal screening and raised concerns on the combined screening aims in one test (prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes to improve foetal and maternal health vs. screening for foetal aneuploidies to increase reproductive autonomy). On a societal level, considerations on the risk of medicalising pregnancy and overall pressure to opt for NIPT were mentioned.

Conclusion

In general, pregnant women have a positive attitude towards broadening the scope of NIPT to the prediction of pregnancy outcomes, although some concerns are acknowledged.
Graphene oxide‐enhanced polyethersulfone/polysulfone forward osmosis membranes for Suez Canal water desalination
Authors: Hassan Mai A. , Hamdy Gehad , Taher F. A. , Ali Sahar S. , Sabry Rania M.
Published: June 2024

Forward osmosis (FO) has emerged as a highly promising and energy‐efficient technology for seawater desalination. This study investigates the enhancement of polyethersulfone/polysulfone FO membranes by incorporating graphene oxide (GO) for seawater desalination. The effects of different GO concentrations on membrane properties and FO desalination performance were examined. Among the tested membranes, the one with 0.04 wt% GO exhibited optimal hydrophilicity, as indicated by a lower contact angle (53.93° ± 5.61°), higher porosity (69.86 ± 0.66), and a minimal structure parameter (312.33 μm). The GO.04 membrane demonstrated significantly improved water flux (Jw) of 106 L/m2 h and low reverse salt flux (Js) of 0.69 g/m2 h. Compared to the GO0 membrane without GO, the water flux was 103% higher without compromising salt selectivity (Js/Jw = 0.0065 g/L) when using distilled water as the feed solution (FS) and 1 M NaCl as the draw solution. However, over a threshold of 0.09%, GO concentration on membrane surfaces and pores can impede water flow, reducing porosity and increasing resistance to membrane transport. The GO.04 membranes also exhibited high water flux (113, 94.28, and 84.64 L/m2 h) when brackish water with different NaCl concentrations (5000, 10,000, and 15,000 mg/L) was used as the FS. Moreover, under real seawater conditions from the Suez Canal, the GO.04 FO membrane showed a significantly higher water flux of 94.3 L/m2 h. These findings provide valuable insights into the desalination of actual seawater from the Suez Canal, offering significant potential for the advancement of water treatment and resource management practices.
3D‐printed PLA/PMMA polymer composites: A consolidated feasible characteristic investigation for dental applications
Authors: Thirugnanasamabandam Arunkumar , Nallamuthu Ramasamy , Renjit Malavika , Gnanasagaran Constance L.
Published: June 2024

This research article focused on the blending of poly(lactic acid)/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PLA/PMMA) polymer materials to overcome PLA's inherent weaknesses, such as low glass transition temperature, brittleness, and lack of melt strength. Consolidated feasible characteristic investigations, such as mechanical, thermal, and aging behavior, were carried out for PLA/PMMA blended polymer materials. Initially, the miscibility of PLA/PMMA blend filaments was prepared at various blend ratios (91/9, 82/18, and 73/27) and samples were printed by fused deposition modeling (FDM). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis have been utilized to evaluate the glass transition temperature (Tg) and intermolecular interaction, respectively, on blended polymer materials. Experimental tensile, compression, and flexural strength testing were performed on neat polymers and blended polymer composites. Compared to neat PLA materials, blended composites had 13.24% and 19.07% higher flexural and compression strengths. Besides, the interfacial interaction of neat and blended polymers has been done using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Furthermore, Tg, storage modulus, and aging behavior of blended polymer materials have significantly improved over neat PLA materials. Altogether, the development of PMMA/PLA blends as sustainable biomaterials for dental applications aligns with environmental concerns and the need for biocompatible materials in dentistry.

Highlights

Blending of PLA and PMMA helps mitigate the inherent constraints of PLA.

Blended composites exhibited greater compressive and flexural strengths.

Better glass transition temperature and intermolecular interaction.

Excellent thermal stability and water aging imply viable dental biomaterials.
High‐temperature responses of Myzus persicae and its parasitoid Aphidius gifuensis in relation to heat level, duration and developmental stage
Authors: Pan Ming‐Zhen , Shen Rui‐Chun , Fu Zhi‐Xiao , Lu Zhao‐Zhi , Ma Bei‐Bei , Liu Tong‐Xian
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Understanding how parasitoids respond to temperature is crucial for improving biological control strategies under the context of global warming. This study examined the suitability of Myzus persicae and its parasitoid Aphidius gifuensis to varying temperature conditions, as well as the stage‐specific response of A. gifuensis to high temperatures.

RESULTS

High temperatures had a significant impact on the both M. persicae and A. gifuensis. When exposed to 36°C, M. persicae developed more slowly and produced smaller adults compared to control, regardless of the duration of exposure (2, 4 or 6 h); additionally, the survival rate of M. persicae nymphs sharply decreased under these conditions. Exposure to 36°C for 4 h negatively impacted the development of A. gifuensis. Female parasitoids exposed to 32°C developed into smaller adults, whereas males exposed to all three temperature levels were smaller compared to control group. Female parasitoids exposed to high temperatures, regardless of the specific heat level and duration, exhibited reduced longevity and decreased fecundity. None of the parasitoids exposed to 36°C for 6 h daily developed into adults. Heat treated during early developmental stages (2 and 4 days old) had a greater influence on parasitoid development, whereas heat treatment at 4 and 6 days old had a more significant impact on its fecundity.

CONCLUSION

High temperatures not only directly affected the performance of A. gifuensis, but also exerted indirect effects by influencing the quality of the host aphids M. persicae. The deleterious effects of high temperature on larvae can persist into the adult stage, affecting the longevity and reproduction of adults. These findings are important for the utilization of A. gifuensis in the control of M. persicae in warming environments. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Electronic, Transport, and Optical Properties of Potential Transparent Conductive Material Rb2Pb2O3
Authors: Xia Jing‐Yi , Zeng Wei , Liu Zheng‐Tang , Liu Qi‐Jun , Gao Juan , Jiao Zhen
Published: June 2024

To better verify the potential of Rb2Pb2O3 as p‐type transparent conductive oxides (TCOs), the structural, electronic, mechanical, transport, and optical properties of Rb2Pb2O3 are calculated in detail under the framework of density functional theory. Significantly, Rb2Pb2O3 is a p‐type semiconductor with an indirect 2.82 eV bandgap. Herein, the Pb‐6p and O‐2p orbits hybridized to form ionic PbO bonds, which determines the degree of localization of electrons in valence band maximum. Interestingly, the RbO bond is extremely weak, and the Rb atom is rarely involved in bonding interactions. This contributes to isotropy, ductility, and good mobility of Rb2Pb2O3, making it soft and suitable for application in flexible electronics. More importantly, as a transparent conductive material, Rb2Pb2O3 not only shows good transparency in the visible region but also has good electrical conductivity. Therefore, Rb2Pb2O3 as an intrinsic p‐TCO with good performance is preliminarily identified. The theoretical finding provides a new candidate for p‐TCOs and paves the way for further performance improvement of Rb2Pb2O3.
Blood‐borne viruses and neurological manifestations: An overview
Authors: Xu Yan , Yu Bo
Published: June 2024

Infections caused by blood‐borne viruses, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human T‐lymphotropic virus (HTLV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis B virus (HBV), are systemic diseases that can lead to a wide range of pathological manifestations. Besides causing severe immune and hepatic disorders, these viral pathogens can also induce neurological dysfunctions via both direct and indirect mechanisms. Neurological dysfunctions are one of the most common manifestations caused by these viruses that can also serve as indicators of their infection, impacting the clinical presentation of the disease. The main neurological manifestations of these blood‐borne viral pathogens consist of several central and peripheral nervous system (CNS and PNS, respectively) dysfunctions. The most common neurological manifestations of HIV, HTLV, HCV, and HBV include HIV‐associated peripheral neuropathy (PN), HTLV‐1‐associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP), and HCV‐/HBV‐associated PN, respectively. Nonetheless, patients infected with these viruses may experience other neurological disorders, either associated with these conditions or manifesting in isolation, which can often go unnoticed or undiagnosed by physicians. The present review aims to provide an overview of the latest evidence on the relationship between blood‐borne viruses and neurological disorders to highlight neurological conditions that may be somewhat overlooked by mainstream literature and physicians.
Ultraviolet‐visible‐near‐infrared light‐responsive soft materials: Fabrication, photomechanical deformation and applications
Authors: Zhang Peng , Wang Guojie , Yu Haifeng
Published: June 2024

In recent years, the advances in light‐responsive soft materials with fascinating properties and functions have attracted tremendous attention, which are also enlightening when attempting to achieve the goals of complex deformations, motions, or attractive applications by precise regulation. Attractively, light is not only a clean and inexhaustible energy but also can be controlled remotely, quickly and accurately in a non‐contact way. Moreover, light‐responsive soft materials are capable of amplifying photo‐triggered molecular changes at the microscopic scale into macroscopic deformations, that is, directly converting the input light energy into the output mechanical work, therefore enabling potential applications in the field of actuators and functional devices. To date, some wonderful reviews have reported the progress in photo‐driven soft materials. However, the research progress in ultraviolet, visible (Vis) and near‐infrared (NIR) light‐driven soft materials containing azobenzene or other non‐azobenzene moieties has not been reported yet. In this review, we summarize recent progress in light‐responsive soft materials in terms of preparation methods, response wavelengths and potential applications. Firstly, the preparation methods of photoresponsive soft materials are introduced. Subsequently, photoinduced macroscopic deformations or motions are summarized, in which Vis and NIR light‐responsive behaviors are especially highlighted. Finally, the potential applications of photoresponsive soft materials are classified. To guide the future work for researchers, the existing problems and future development prospects of light‐responsive soft materials are proposed.
Digital soil mapping of soil burn severity
Authors: Wilson Stewart G. , Prentice Samuel
Published: June 2024

Fire alters soil hydrologic properties leading to increased risk of catastrophic debris flows and post‐fire flooding. As a result, US federal agencies map soil burn severity (SBS) via direct soil observation and adjustment of rasters of burned area reflectance. We developed a unique application of digital soil mapping (DSM) to map SBS in the Creek Fire which burned 154,000 ha in the Sierra Nevada. We utilized 169 ground‐based observations of SBS in combination with raster proxies of soil forming factors, pre‐fire fuel conditions, and fire effects to vegetation to build a digital soil mapping model of soil burn severity (DSMSBS) using a random forest algorithm and compared the DSMSBS map to the established SBS map. The DSMSBS model had a cross‐validation accuracy of 48%. The established technique had 46% agreement between field observations and pixels. However, since the established technique is manual, it could not be compared to the DSMSBS model via cross‐validation. We produced SBS class uncertainty maps, which showed high prediction probabilities around field observations, and low probabilities away from field observations. SBS prediction probabilities could aid post‐fire assessment teams with sample prioritization. We report 107 km2 more area classified as high and moderate SBS compared to the established technique. We conclude that blending soil forming factors based mapping and vegetation burn severity mapping can improve SBS mapping. This represents a shift in SBS mapping away from validating remotely sensed reflectance imagery and toward a quantitative soil landscape model, which incorporates both fire and soils information to directly predict SBS.
Soil phosphorus continues to re‐equilibrate over 60 years of forest development in the Calhoun Critical Zone Observatory in the southeastern US Piedmont
Authors: Foroughi Maryam , Sutter Lori A. , Richter Daniel D. , Markewitz Daniel
Published: June 2024

Land use changes and reforestation impact soil phosphorus (P) distribution over extended periods. This study examines P distribution in forest development from 1957 to 2017 at the Calhoun Critical Zone Observatory in South Carolina. Tracking changes in 0–60 cm mineral soil P fractions through six samplings in eight continuously uncut plots and eight plots cut in 2007 (replanted in 2009), we hypothesized an increase in soil organic P (Po) over time in uncut plots, at the expense of HCl‐extractable P (i.e., Ca‐P). This hypothesis is based on the expectation of a transfer of P from easily accessible forms, possibly from historic fertilization to organic reservoirs within the soil. Meanwhile, we expect to lose Po in cut plots due to disturbance and residue decomposition, and increase bioavailable Mehlich‐III extractable P (Mehlich‐III P), resin inorganic phosphorus (Pi), and HCO3 Pi. Results revealed a continued decrease in Mehlich‐III P in uncut (38.7–15.7 µg g−1) and cut plots (25.2–17.7 µg g−1) within the 0–7.5 cm range. NaOH‐Po in uncut plots remained stable, while in cut plots, it increased by ∼4 µg g−1 in the 0–7.5 cm soil layer. Slowly cycling Po (NaOH‐Po) increased during forest regrowth in the cut plots, aligning with rising soil organic carbon and decreasing soil pH. Soil P changes indicate minor declines in available fractions during the initial three decades, with the HCl extractable (Ca‐P) fraction experiencing the highest depletion. In the later three decades, P associated with NaOH extraction (i.e., iron [Fe] and aluminum [Al] bound P) declined, although estimated mineral soil P removals during this period were less than accumulated P in tree biomass and forest floor. The total soil P decline from 1990 to 2017 was 34 kg ha−1, suggesting a growing role of P recycling from debris decomposition in supplying soil P to plants.
Evaluating Mental Health Support by Healthcare Providers for Patients with Atopic Dermatitis: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Chatrath Sheena , Loiselle Allison R. , Johnson Jessica K. , Begolka Wendy Smith
Published: June 2024

Importance

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is associated with psychosocial symptoms, resulting in significant mental health burden and reduced quality of life.

Objective

To understand mental health support received by patients from their primary eczema provider.

Design

We administered a cross-sectional survey (N = 954) to US caregivers and adult patients with AD.

Setting

The National Eczema Association (United States) conducted an online survey in October 2022 among self-selected patients and caregivers.

Outcome

Patients and caregivers of AD patients reported on mental health conversations and types of mental health support received by their/their child’s provider.

Results

Many patients did not discuss (41.9%) or were not asked (50.5%) about their mental health by their eczema provider, and 64% reported not receiving a mental health referral. Patients were more likely to receive mental health support if they were male (2.00 [1.08–3.69]), low or middle education level (4.89 [2.10–11.36], 2.71 [1.36–5.40]), or had purchased insurance policies (4.43 [1.79–10.98]). Providers were most likely to refer patients to counseling services (22.5%), followed by alternative mental health therapy (14.9%), cognitive behavioural therapy (13.3%) and peer/social support groups (12.2%).

Conclusion

Despite the strong association between AD and mental health conditions, there is a significant proportion of patients that report not receiving mental health support from their/their child’s primary eczema provider. Screening with validated measures may improve the identification of patients requiring additional support. Future research should evaluate the efficacy of mental health resources and barriers to accessing and referring patients for mental health care.
Amplified psychological reaction to civil unrest among Holocaust survivor descendants
Authors: Shrira Amit , Greenblatt‐Kimron Lee , Ben‐Ezra Menachem , Palgi Yuval
Published: June 2024

The evidence regarding the intergenerational effects of the Holocaust points to a heightened sensitivity to traumatic and stressful events, as well as to threats. These effects were found across at least three generations: the survivors themselves, their children, and their grandchildren. More specifically, this sensitivity is manifested in increased psychological reactions to adverse circumstances, especially when such situations trigger associations with the Holocaust. During 2023 Israel has experienced unprecedented civil unrest and protests following the government's plan to promote a judicial overhaul. Many expressed fears for Israeli democracy and the integrity of the social fabric in Israel. The current study examined how Holocaust descendants (i.e., children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors) experienced this prolonged social unrest. A web‐based random sample of 706 Israeli Jews born after World War II completed questionnaires several months before the unrest began (Wave 1, 2022) and seven months into the unrest (Wave 2, 2023). Supporting most of our hypotheses, Holocaust descendants reported higher civil unrest salience (i.e., more preoccupation with the political and social upheaval) relative to comparison descendants (i.e., children and grandchildren of those not directly exposed to the Holocaust). Relative to comparison descendants, Holocaust descendants were also at a greater risk of reporting exacerbation in anxiety since the judicial overhaul was introduced, but not in depression or somatisation symptoms. Results remained significant after controlling Wave 1 distress level, background characteristics, level of engagement in civil unrest, and participants' viewpoint on the judicial overhaul. The findings further corroborate unique reactions to stress among Holocaust descendants, this time by highlighting increased preoccupation and increased exacerbation in anxiety during a period of prolonged political and social turmoil.
Improving an emergency repair process with feature models
Authors: Ignaim Karam , Fernandes João M.
Published: June 2024

Whenever an emergency occurs, such as a change in the system operating environment that prevents regular functioning, one possibility to restore the system to normal operation is to perform immediately the emergency repair process (ERP). This paper introduces the feature‐based emergency repair process (FbERP), which constitutes a feature‐based improvement/extension to ERP. FbERP uses feature models to represent urgent change requests (UCRs) and traces each change to its location in the code base in order to realign documentation and code. Based on real‐world change requests, we evaluated the proposed process using different techniques, including an empirical case study and a small survey. In the empirical case study, we compare FbERP with respect to ERP to check the effectiveness, efficiency, and usability of the proposed process. The results of the evaluation reveal that FbERP can be successfully used by software engineers to respond to UCRs, with an improvement over ERP.
Enhanced Selective Contact Behavior in a‐Si:H/oxide Transparent Photovoltaic Devices via Dipole Layer Integration
Authors: Lopez‐Garcia Alex J. , Alvarez‐Suarez Gustavo , Ros Eloi , Ortega Pablo , Voz Cristobal , Puigdollers Joaquim , Pérez Rodríguez Alejandro
Published: June 2024

Transparent photovoltaic (TPV) devices have the potential to revolutionize photovoltaic (PV) technology by enabling on‐site generation while minimizing visual impact. However, a major challenge in the development of TPV, as well as for many PV technologies, is the open‐circuit voltage (Voc) deficit, which limits their efficiency. In this work, the development of wide‐bandgap inorganic‐based TPV devices is reported with a focus on low‐cost, earth‐abundant, stable, and nontoxic materials. The device structure consists of an ultrathin hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a‐Si:H) absorber and metal‐oxide layers as selective contacts. Herein, novel approach is presented to significantly improve device performance, especially in Voc, by introducing molecular dipoles in the device electron‐transport layer. By incorporating polyethyleneimine or poly(amidoamine) G1 and G2 dipoles, Voc (from 410 mV up to 638 mV) is significantly increased without sacrificing the average photopic transmittance of the device, leading to a record efficiency for this particular approach in TPV. Measurements confirm excellent long‐term stability. This approach can potentially allow tuning the work function of the selective contacts enabling the use of low‐cost, earth‐abundant materials that are not optimized for a particular absorber. Furthermore, this solution circumvents the issue of low Voc by a simple interface treatment.