bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silodosin versus Tamsulosin as Medical Expulsive Therapy for Distal Ureteral Stones: A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Dell'Atti Lucio
Published: September 2014

Introduction

The aim of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of silodosin (8 mg) versus tamsulosin (0.4 mg) as a medical expulsive therapy for distal ureteral stones.

Methods

136 patients (aged 18 years or older) had presented with renal colic, were diagnosed to have a single, unilateral, radiopaque, proximal ureteral stone (range 4–10 mm in size), and agreed to undergo conservative management. For a 3-week period, 68 patients per group were assigned to the following treatments: Group A (gA) received tamsulosin 0.4 mg once daily, and Group B (gB) received silodosin 8 mg once daily. The time to expulsion, analgesic use, follow-up, endoscopic treatment and adverse effects of drugs were noted.

Results

Considering all the patients enrolled (136), one patient in gA and two patients in gB were unable to continue the study because of orthostatic hypotension within a week from commencing the treatment. A total of 133 patients (gA: 67; gB: 66) were included in this study. A stone expulsion rate of 61.2% (41 out of 67 patients) was observed in gA, and 80.3% (53 out of 66) was observed in gB. gB showed a statistically relevant advantage in terms of stone expulsion rate (p: 0.003), as well as in terms of expulsion time (weeks) (p: 0.002). No severe complications were recorded in both groups. Four patients (10.2%; 4/39) in gA and ten patients (22.7%; 10/44) in gB experienced retrograde ejaculation (<0.002).

Conclusion

The patients treated with silodosin showed a significant increase in expulsion rate and a decrease in expulsion time of lower ureteral stones in our study.
Male infertility: non-surgical therapy
Authors: Gulino Gaetano , Stefanucci Marco , Antonucci Michele , Racioppi Marco , Sacco Emilio , Pinto Francesco , Bassi Pier Francesco
Published: September 2014

Infertility is defined as the inability of a couple to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse and affects 15% of couples with male component of 50%. The failure of spermatogenesis can result from hypothalamic, pituitary or testicular disorders although in the majority of cases it remains idiopathic. The diagnostic process includes medical history, semen analysis, hormonal studies, genetic studies and radiological evaluation.

Targeted hormonal therapies are available for patients whose infertility is caused by altered levels of androgens, prolactin, or TSH. Main treatments aim to restore normal sexual function by administering testosterone and to increase spermatogenesis with pulsatile GnRH.

Fertility in men suffering from hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism can be restored through hormone therapy using GnRH or with the use of gonadotropins when there is hypothalamic failure. In the past, treatment options for the factors of idiopathic male infertility were mainly based on the use of anti-estrogens that cause an increased secretion of FSH and LH and therefore of testosterone.

Oxytocin promotes the progression of the sperm and increases the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. The aromatase's inhibitors decrease the conversion of androgens to estrogens, increasing serum levels of androgens, resulting in an increased release of gonadotropins.

Two areas showed interesting future perspectives for the treatment of infertility: gene therapy and transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells.
A heliozoan devouring motile chytrid zoospores
Authors: Batko A. , Hassan S. K.
Published: September 2014

The case of mass consumption of chytrid zoospores by Actinosphaerium eichhorni is described.
Materials on distribution on lichens of the family Permeliaceae in Poland
Authors: Sulma Tadeusz , Fałtynowicz Wiesław
Published: September 2014

Localities of 52 species of the family Parmeliaceae found in herbarium material collected by T. Sulma and by W. Fałtynowicz were listed in the paper. Two of the species: Parmelia pastillifera (Harm.) Schub. et Klem. and P. stuppea Tayl. have not been noted from Poland before.
Dry season and diurnal surveys of phylloplane fungi of Hevea brasiliensis in Nigeria
Authors: Okhuoya J. A. , Ahweyevu C. O.
Published: September 2014

Monthly and diurnal variation of phylloplane fungi of rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) leaves were studied over a period of four months in the dry season, using two culturing methods. Composite fungal population was the highest in April and the lowest in February. Serial dilution method recorded the higher number of fungal spores than ballistospore method. Mature leaves were found to have more fungal spores than premature and young leaves. Spore concentration on the leaves showed diurnal periodicity, with peak period of spores between 12-18 hr. Rubber leaves outside the plantation, had more spores on their surfaces than those shaded by the plantation canopy. The factors responsible for these observations were discussed.
Rare and new Laboulbeniales from Poland. X
Authors: Majewski Tomasz
Published: September 2014

In a consecutive paper in the series concerning Polish Laboulbeniales, several species new for Poland are reported. Similarly as in the earlier papers of this series, all specimens were found by the author (if not otherwise indicated). The specimens are kept in the author's collection at the Mycology Laboratory of the Institute of Botany, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw.
Communicating about microbicides with women in mind: tailoring messages for specific audiences
Authors: Sidibe Sekou , Pack Allison P , Tolley Elizabeth E , Ryan Elizabeth , Mackenzie Caroline , Bockh Emily , Githuka George
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Current HIV prevention options are unrealistic for most women; however, HIV prevention research has made important strides, including on‐going development of antiretroviral‐based vaginal microbicide gels. Nevertheless, social‐behavioural research suggests that women's ability to access and use new HIV prevention technologies will be strongly influenced by a range of socio‐cultural, gender and structural factors which should be addressed by communications and marketing strategies, so that these products can be positioned in ways that women can use them.

Methods

Based on an extensive literature review and in‐country policy consultation, consisting of approximately 43 stakeholders, we describe barriers and facilitators to HIV prevention, including potential microbicide use, for four priority audiences of Kenyan women (female sex workers [FSWs], women in stable and discordant relationships, and sexually active single young women). We then describe how messages that position microbicides might be tailored for each audience of women.

Results

We reviewed 103 peer‐reviewed articles and reports. In Kenya, structural factors and gender inequality greatly influence HIV prevention for women. HIV risk perception and the ability to consistently use condoms and other prevention products often vary by partner type. Women in stable relationships find condom use challenging because they connote a lack of trust. However, women in other contexts are often able to negotiate condom use, though they may face challenges with consistent use. These women include FSWs who regularly use condoms with their casual clients, young women in the initial stages of a sexual relationship and discordant couples. Thus, we consider two approaches to framing messages aimed at increasing general awareness of microbicides – messages that focus strictly on HIV prevention and ones that focus on other benefits of microbicides such as increased pleasure, intimacy or sexual empowerment, in addition to HIV prevention.

Conclusions

If carefully tailored, microbicide communication materials may facilitate product use by women who do not currently use any HIV prevention method. Conversely, message tailoring for women with high‐risk perception will help ensure that microbicides are used as additional protection, together with condoms.
The importance of choice in the rollout of ARV‐based prevention to user groups in Kenya and South Africa: a qualitative study
Authors: Mack Natasha , Evens Emily M , Tolley Elizabeth E , Brelsford Kate , Mackenzie Caroline , Milford Cecilia , Smit Jennifer A , Kimani Joshua
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Stakeholders continue to discuss the appropriateness of antiretroviral‐based pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention among sub‐Saharan African and other women. In particular, women need formulations they can adhere to given that effectiveness has been found to correlate with adherence. Evidence from family planning shows that contraceptive use, continuation and adherence may be increased by expanding choices. To explore the potential role of choice in women's use of HIV prevention methods, we conducted a secondary analysis of research with female sex workers (FSWs) and men and women in serodiscordant couples (SDCs) in Kenya, and adolescent and young women in South Africa. Our objective here is to present their interest in and preferences for PrEP formulations – pills, gel and injectable.

Methods

In this qualitative study, in Kenya we conducted three focus groups with FSWs, and three with SDCs. In South Africa, we conducted two focus groups with adolescent girls, and two with young women. All focus groups were audio‐recorded, transcribed and translated into English as needed. We structurally and thematically coded transcripts using a codebook and QSR NVivo 9.0; generated code reports; and conducted inductive thematic analysis to identify major trends and themes.

Results

All groups expressed strong interest in PrEP products. In Kenya, FSWs said the products might help them earn more money, because they would feel safer accepting more clients or having sex without condoms for a higher price. SDCs said the products might replace condoms and reanimate couples’ sex lives. Most sex workers and SDCs preferred an injectable because it would last longer, required little intervention and was private. In South Africa, adolescent girls believed it would be possible to obtain the products more privately than condoms. Young women were excited about PrEP but concerned about interactions with alcohol and drug use, which often precede sex. Adolescents did not prefer a particular formulation but noted benefits and limitations of each; young women's preferences also varied.

Conclusions

The circumstances and preferences of sub‐Saharan African women are likely to vary within and across groups and to change over time, highlighting the importance of choice in HIV prevention methods.
Engaging male partners in women's microbicide use: evidence from clinical trials and implications for future research and microbicide introduction
Authors: Lanham Michele , Wilcher Rose , Montgomery Elizabeth T , Pool Robert , Schuler Sidney , Lenzi Rachel , Friedland Barbara
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Constructively engaging male partners in women‐centred health programs such as family planning and prevention of mother‐to‐child HIV transmission has resulted in both improved health outcomes and stronger relationships. Concerted efforts to engage men in microbicide use could make it easier for women to access and use microbicides in the future. This paper synthesizes findings from studies that investigated men's role in their partners’ microbicide use during clinical trials to inform recommendations for male engagement in women's microbicide use.

Methods

We conducted primary and secondary analyses of data from six qualitative studies implemented in conjunction with microbicide clinical trials in South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania. The analyses included data from 535 interviews and 107 focus groups with trial participants, male partners, and community members to answer research questions on partner communication about microbicides, men's role in women's microbicide use, and potential strategies for engaging men in future microbicide introduction. We synthesized the findings across the studies and developed recommendations.

Results

The majority of women in steady partnerships wanted agreement from their partners to use microbicides. Women used various strategies to obtain their agreement, including using the product for a while before telling their partners, giving men information gradually, and continuing to bring up microbicides until resistant partners acquiesced. Among men who were aware their partners were participating in a trial and using microbicides, involvement ranged from opposition to agreement/non‐interference to active support. Both men and women expressed a desire for men to have access to information about microbicides and to be able to talk with a healthcare provider about microbicides.

Conclusions

We recommend counselling women on whether and how to involve their partners including strategies for gaining partner approval; providing couples’ counselling on microbicides so men have the opportunity to talk with providers; and targeting men with community education and mass media to increase their awareness and acceptance of microbicides. These strategies should be tested in microbicide trials, open‐label studies, and demonstration projects to identify effective male engagement approaches to include in eventual microbicide introduction. Efforts to engage men must take care not to diminish women's agency to decide whether to use the product and inform their partners.
A critical role for mTORC1 in erythropoiesis and anemia
Authors: Knight Zachary A , Schmidt Sarah F , Birsoy Kivanc , Tan Keith , Friedman Jeffrey M
Published: September 2014

Red blood cells (RBC) must coordinate their rate of growth and proliferation with the availability of nutrients, such as iron, but the signaling mechanisms that link the nutritional state to RBC growth are incompletely understood. We performed a screen for cell types that have high levels of signaling through mTORC1, a protein kinase that couples nutrient availability to cell growth. This screen revealed that reticulocytes show high levels of phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6, a downstream target of mTORC1. We found that mTORC1 activity in RBCs is regulated by dietary iron and that genetic activation or inhibition of mTORC1 results in macrocytic or microcytic anemia, respectively. Finally, ATP competitive mTOR inhibitors reduced RBC proliferation and were lethal after treatment with phenylhydrazine, an inducer of hemolysis. These results identify the mTORC1 pathway as a critical regulator of RBC growth and proliferation and establish that perturbations in this pathway result in anemia.
Histone supply regulates S phase timing and cell cycle progression
Authors: Günesdogan Ufuk , Jäckle Herbert , Herzig Alf
Published: September 2014

Eukaryotes package DNA into nucleosomes that contain a core of histone proteins. During DNA replication, nucleosomes are disrupted and re-assembled with newly synthesized histones and DNA. Despite much progress, it is still unclear why higher eukaryotes contain multiple core histone genes, how chromatin assembly is controlled, and how these processes are coordinated with cell cycle progression. We used a histone null mutation of Drosophila melanogaster to show that histone supply levels, provided by a defined number of transgenic histone genes, regulate the length of S phase during the cell cycle. Lack of de novo histone supply not only extends S phase, but also causes a cell cycle arrest during G2 phase, and thus prevents cells from entering mitosis. Our results suggest a novel cell cycle surveillance mechanism that monitors nucleosome assembly without involving the DNA repair pathways and exerts its effect via suppression of CDC25 phosphatase String expression.
Regulation of retinal axon growth by secreted Vax1 homeodomain protein
Authors: Kim Namsuk , Min Kwang Wook , Kang Kyung Hwa , Lee Eun Jung , Kim Hyoung-Tai , Moon Kyunghwan , Choi Jiheon , Le Dai , Lee Sang-Hee , Kim Jin Woo
Published: September 2014

Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons of binocular animals cross the midline at the optic chiasm (OC) to grow toward their synaptic targets in the contralateral brain. Ventral anterior homeobox 1 (Vax1) plays an essential role in the development of the OC by regulating RGC axon growth in a non-cell autonomous manner. In this study, we identify an unexpected function of Vax1 that is secreted from ventral hypothalamic cells and diffuses to RGC axons, where it promotes axonal growth independent of its transcription factor activity. We demonstrate that Vax1 binds to extracellular sugar groups of the heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) located in RGC axons. Both Vax1 binding to HSPGs and subsequent penetration into the axoplasm, where Vax1 activates local protein synthesis, are required for RGC axonal growth. Together, our findings demonstrate that Vax1 possesses a novel RGC axon growth factor activity that is critical for the development of the mammalian binocular visual system.
Trends and associated factors of alcohol consumption among Southern Thai adolescents, 2003–2009
Authors: Tantirangsee Nopporn , Assanangkornchai Sawitri , Geater Alan F
Published: September 2014

Tantirangsee, N., Assanangkornchai, S., & Geater, A. (2014). Trends and associated factors of alcohol consumption among Southern Thai adolescents, 2003–2009. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 3(3), 219 – 225. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v3i3.152Aims: To examine the trends in and the factors associated with the use of alcohol among high school students during the period from 2003 to 2009 in southern Thailand.Design: School-based biannual cross-sectional surveys. A self–administered, voluntary and anonymous questionnaire was used to collect data on current alcohol drinking and demographic variables. The time trends were evaluated using a Chi-squared test for trend. The factors associated with alcohol consumption were examined by survey logistic regression models.Setting: High school student sample in southern Thailand.Participants: Grade 7, 9 and 11 students. The numbers of students sampled were 10,972, 9,005, 6,097 and 5,573 in 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2009, respectively.Measures: The association of the use of alcohol over a 30-day period with year of survey and demographic variables including gender, school level, school location, GPA and religion.Findings: Prevalence of the use of alcohol over a 30-day period in grade 11 students tended to increase in males (p-value < 0.001) with no change in females, but the trends of drinking in younger students (grades 7 and 9) decreased over the years in both genders (p-value < 0.001). Male gender (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.91–2.44), higher school years (grade 9: OR 2.66, 95% CI 2.35–3.01 and grade 11: OR 2.93, 95% CI 2.41–3.55), Buddhism (OR 3.50, 95% CI 2.65–4.64) and low school record (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.30–1.75) were variables associated with alcohol consumption.Conclusions: The prevalence of young drinkers decreased over the years covered in this study, although the prevalence among senior high school students increased. Specific interventions should be designed and integrated in school activities to reduce the prevalence of alcohol consumption.
Alcohol policy process in Malawi: Making it happen
Authors: Ferreira-Borges Carina , Endal Dag , Babor Thomas , Dias Sonia , Kachiwiya Maganizo , Zakeyu Nelson
Published: September 2014

Ferreira-Borges, C., Endal, D., Babor, T., Dias, S., Kachiwiya, M., & Zakeyu, N. (2014). Alcohol policy process in Malawi: Making it happen. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 3(3), 187 – 192. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v3i3.156Aims: This paper presents the recent history of alcohol-policy development in Malawi, describing changes in the policy process, initiatives to expand the involvement of relevant stakeholders, and efforts to limit the role and influence of vested commercial interests. We also note the challenges that remain for alcohol-policy formulation in Malawi.Design: We used a holistic, single case-study design to illustrate the process, using information generated from a combination of direct and indirect observations, document reviews, media analysis, and in-depth and semi-structured interviews.Findings: Alcohol policy development in Malawi reflects a complex combination of political and social processes, fraught with numerous stakeholder conflicts and political power plays. Despite the influence of the alcohol industry in the agenda-setting and consultative process, when adequately resourced and supported, civil society organizations can play an important and productive role in steering policy developments in a sound public-interest direction.Conclusions: Documenting this type of practical “natural experiment” provides an important opportunity for learning. The Malawi case study reinforces the need for more regular policy analysis of similar initiatives—in particular, in low-income developing countries—and for additional study of the alcohol-policy development process and policy implementation.
Alcohol control policies in low- and middle-income countries: Testing impacts and improving policymaking practice
Authors: Room Robin
Published: September 2014

Room, R. (2014). Alcohol control policies in low- and middle-income countries: Testing impacts and improving policymaking practice. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 3(3), 184 – 186. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v3i3.181Alcohol is a major contributor to the global burden of disease (Lim et al., 2012), and is a major source of health and social harm in many middle- and low-income countries, as well as in high-income countries. In recognition of this, a Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Effects of Alcohol was adopted in 2010 by the World Health Organization’s governing body, the World Health Assembly (WHA) (WHO, 2010). Since then, there has also been increasing international recognition of alcohol’s role in social problems, including crime, family problems, and lost work productivity: "beyond health consequences," WHO notes, "the harmful use of alcohol brings significant social and economic losses to individuals and society at large" (http://www.who.int/mediacentre/ factsheets/fs349/en/). New emphasis has been put, too, on alcohol’s major contribution as a risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, heart disease, and liver cirrhosis; WHO’s global goals for NCD control include the (somewhat fuzzily defined) goal of a 10% reduction in the "harmful use of alcohol . . . as appropriate" by 2020 (WHO, 2013). Together, these steps reflect a greater international recognition of alcohol as a major issue to be addressed in improving global health
Introduction to a special issue on alcohol control policies in low and middle income countries
Authors: Sornpaisarn Bundit , Shield Kevin D.
Published: September 2014

Sornpaisarn, B., & Shield, K. (2014). Introduction to a special issue on alcohol control policies in low and middle income countries. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 3(3), 182 – 183. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v3i3.182In response to the World Health Assembly’s adoption in 2010 of a resolution which endorsed a Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol, many countries, especially those considered low- and middle-income (LMIC), formulated, and in some instances implemented, a variety of alcohol control policies. However, the supporting knowledge and evidence used to evaluate the effectiveness of alcohol control policies stem primarily from high-income countries (HIC) (Babor et al., 2010; World Health Organization, 2010). This lack of knowledge and evidence from LMIC is a considerable public health problem, as differences between the socio-economic and cultural contexts of LMIC and HIC may influence the effectiveness of an alcohol control policy (Anderson et al., 2009; Lachenmeier, 2011).
Testing the National Alcohol Policy Score Card (NAPSC) to assess progress in implementing a comprehensive policy response to reduce the harmful use of alcohol in South Africa
Authors: Parry Charles D.
Published: September 2014

Parry, C. (2013). Testing the National Alcohol Policy Score Card (NAPSC) to assess progress in implementing a comprehensive policy response to reduce the harmful use of alcohol in South Africa. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 3(3), 202 – 209. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v3i3.98Aims: To complement recent alcohol policy initiatives of WHO, a study was designed to test the feasibility of a simple instrument to assess the state of alcohol policy development and implementation in a developing country.Design: A cross-sectional survey.Setting: Data were collected via a web-survey.Participants: 52 experts across various sectors were approached.Measures: Study participants were asked to complete a 13-item web survey that draws on the target areas for national action identified in the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol (2010).  The state of policy development and implementation was assessed for 2011 and then retrospectively to 2006.  Participants were also asked to comment on the ease of completing the survey.Findings: Based on the responses from 37 experts, improvements were noted in alcohol policy development and implementation in all areas over time, with particular movement in developing a national alcohol strategy; increasing leadership, awareness and commitment; drink-driving; and health services’ response.  The total (average) score of 35% in 2011, while up by 11 percentage points, indicates that much work remains to be done, particularly to restrict the marketing of alcoholic beverages, address informal alcohol, increase community action to address harmful alcohol use, and increase financial resources.Conclusions:  Participants found the web-survey easy to use.  The overall findings and the way they are presented could be used to promote discussions around the development and implementation of national alcohol strategies and how they change over time, and even to compare the situations in different countries.  Refinement of the instrument continues.
Economic and Humanistic Burden of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results From the US National Survey Data 2018–2020
Authors: Huang Yinan , Li Jieni , Agarwal Sandeep Krishna
Published: August 2024

Objective

Our objective was to estimate the economic and humanistic burden among US adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

This study analyzed results from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey from 2018 to 2020. Adults (aged ≥18 years) self‐reporting with RA or with the presence of the International Classification of Disease, 10th Revision clinical modification codes were identified. Healthcare expenditures (inpatient care, outpatient care, emergency department, office visits, prescription medications, home health, and others) were measured. The Short Form 12 Health Survey physical component summary (PCS), mental component summary (MCS), activities of daily living (ADL), and instrumental ADL (IADL) were measured. Two‐part models assessed the incremental increase in the health care expenditures for the RA group compared to the non‐RA group. In addition, the multivariable linear regression was used to evaluate the marginal difference in PCS and MCS between those with RA and those without RA, whereas the multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between ADL and IADL by RA status.

Results

Annually, 4.27 million adults with RA were identified. The two‐part model showed significantly higher total annual healthcare expenditures in the RA group than non‐RA group (mean $3,382.971 [95% confidence interval (CI) $1,816.50–$4,949.44]). Compared to the non‐RA group, the RA group was associated with lower PCS scores (mean 4.78 [95% CI 3.47–6.09]) and similarly lower MCS scores (mean −0.84 [95% CI −2.18 to 0.50]), as well as increased odds of requesting ADL (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.02 [95% CI 1.59–2.56]) and IADL assistance (aOR 2.11 [95% CI 1.57–2.84]).

Conclusion

RA was associated with higher health care expenditures, particularly prescription medication costs, and was associated with suboptimal quality of life.
FLAx‐REinforced Aluminum (FLARE): A Bio‐Based Fiber Metal Laminate Alternative Combining Impact Resistance and Vibration Damping
Authors: Alcaraz Mathilde , Alderliesten René C. , Mosleh Yasmine
Published: August 2024

Fiber metal laminates (FMLs) have mainly been used in aerospace applications with synthetic fibers. To improve their environmental credentials and address issues regarding the end‐of‐life of these materials, a shift to FMLs based on natural fibers can be a promising course of action. However, regarding them as conventional FMLs overlook some of the unique benefits of natural fibers. Therefore, this study pioneers the examination of FLAx‐REinforced aluminum (FLARE) for its combined impact resistance and vibration damping. Dynamic mechanical analysis and vibration beam tests demonstrate that the metallic layer predominantly influences the damping behavior of FLARE. The loss factor notably decreases with aluminum addition (by 80% compared to the flax composite), approximated via an inverse mixture rule. Low‐velocity impact tests highlight the role of aluminum layers in energy absorption and the composite strength as a critical factor in impact resistance. FLARE exhibits 25% less specific energy absorption compared to its glass fiber counterpart. A quasi‐static analytical model suggests the potential of FLARE for practical applications. With its balance of properties and considering its potential advantages at end‐of‐life, allowing recycling of aluminum, and its expected lower carbon footprint, FLARE renders potential beyond the aerospace sector, e.g., in other forms of transportation.
Tungsten Wire—From Lamp Filaments to Reinforcement Fibers for Composites in Fusion Reactors
Authors: Riesch Johann , Fuhr Maximilian , Almanstötter Jürgen
Published: August 2024

The use of drawn tungsten wire marked a breakthrough in electric lighting which led to a significant advancement in human society and technology. Nowadays, thermal light sources using tungsten filaments are being more and more replaced by semiconductor‐based light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). Despite the lower visibility of incandescent lamps in everyday life, new markets and applications for drawn tungsten wires are opening up, which makes this complex material a highly‐studied subject. One of these applications is the use of heavily drawn tungsten wires as high‐performance reinforcement fibers for new composites that can withstand the extreme environment present in a nuclear fusion reactor. The main advantage of tungsten wires for this class of composites is their ductility and high strength. The wires can be used to increase the high‐temperature strength of copper‐based heat sink materials as well as the fracture toughness of bulk tungsten considered for the use of highly loaded reactor wall components. These new applications for tungsten wire have also given new impetus to the study of their fundamental properties.
A Green and Energy‐Supply‒Free Artificial Plant for Efficient and Non‐Selective Enrichment of Heavy Metal Ions Out of Soil
Authors: Shi Congcan , Li Yike , Wu Zhenhua , Chen Aotian , Wang Qingwei , Li Xinyue , Jin Honghao , Yan Chunze , Shi Yusheng , Shi Yan , Lin Zhang , Su Bin
Published: August 2024

Removing heavy metal (loid) s (HMs) from contaminated soil in a nonselective, highly efficient, and energy‐free manner is a major global challenge. Herein, this work synthesizes and assembles a biomimetic materials system (BMS) consisting of an artificial plant, a hemispherical glass cover, and a reflective plate, capable of non‐selective and highly efficient remediation of soil contaminated by various HM ions under sunlight. Specifically, a water cycle is driven to establish between the soil, artificial plant, and atmosphere by solar energy in the BMS, which induced water‐soluble HM ions to enrich and precipitate at the top edge of the artificial plant. The formed HM precipitate is easily removed, contributing to the extremely strong recyclability of BMS. This system has significant advantages in terms of soil properties, contamination characteristics, energy consumption, processing time, and removal amount over other representative remediation methods, demonstrating its great potential for practical application in the remediation of various HM‐contaminated soils.
A Stretchable Soft Pump Driven by a Heterogeneous Dielectric Elastomer Actuator
Authors: Wang Lvting , Zhuo Jiangshan , Peng Junbo , Dong Huifeng , Jiang Shengchao , Shi Ye
Published: August 2024

Electrically driven soft pumps act as ideal “hearts” for flexible fluidic systems in soft robots and wearable devices. Dielectric elastomers (DEs) are promising for soft pump fabrication owing to their features of fast response, large strain, high energy density, and low power consumption. However, conventional dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) using single DE material usually exhibit poor pumping performance due to electromechanical instability or insulating problems. Herein, a multilayer structured heterogeneous dielectric elastomer actuator (H‐DEA) is fabricated based on thin films of processable, high‐performance dielectric elastomer (PHDE) and silicones, and is integrated onto silicone pump body to build a fully soft pump. The pump achieves a flow rate of 3.25 mL min−1 and a blocked pressure of 2.75 kPa with a mass of less than 1 g and a power consumption of 0.21 W. It maintains pumping functions when being bent or stretched and after twisted. It works for viscous liquids and is demonstrated to drive a soft robotic fluidic circuit.
A Tumor‐Activatable Liposomal Nanoprobe for Selective Visualization of Metastatic Lymph Nodes
Authors: Cui Yi , Xia Heming , Liu Qiyu , Ma Bin , Pan Meijie , Shang Chunliang , Zhang Qiang , Wang Yiguang , Chen Binlong , Guo Hongyan
Published: August 2024

The precise identification of sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) during surgery and assessment of their benign status is crucial for accurate tumor staging and optimal treatment strategizing. Currently, a deficiency exists in non‐invasive in vivo diagnostic techniques that can accurately pinpoint SLNs during surgery while simultaneously evaluating their benign status. Here, a tumor‐activatable liposomal nanoprobe (nTAL) is developed, remotely loaded with clinically approved photosensitizer, methyl aminolevulinate (MAL), to noninvasively visualize the tumor metastasis lymph nodes (LNs) with precision. Benefited from the highly efficient LNs draining of nanosized liposome and tumor cell‐specific transformation of the non‐fluorescent MAL to fluorescent protoporphyrin IX (PPIX), nTAL succeeded in targeting the SLNs and differentiated the metastatic from the benign ones with a positive correlation between PPIX generation and tumor cell infiltration in LNs. Moreover, the nTAL technology is capable of probing the early metastatic stage with a primary tumor size of 50 mm3. This study provides a new strategy for intraoperative visualization of real‐time sentinel node dissection.
Machine Learning Enabled Design and Optimization for 3D‐Printing of High‐Fidelity Presurgical Organ Models
Authors: Chen Eric S. , Ahmadianshalchi Alaleh , Sparks Sonja S. , Chen Chuchu , Deshwal Aryan , Doppa Janardhan R. , Qiu Kaiyan
Published: August 2024

The development of a general‐purpose machine learning algorithm capable of quickly identifying optimal 3D‐printing settings can save manufacturing time and cost, reduce labor intensity, and improve the quality of 3D‐printed objects. Existing methods have limitations which focus on overall performance or one specific aspect of 3D‐printing quality. Here, for addressing the limitations, a multi‐objective Bayesian Optimization (BO) approach which uses a general‐purpose algorithm to optimize the black‐box functions is demonstrated and identifies the optimal input parameters of direct ink writing for 3D‐printing different presurgical organ models with intricate geometry. The BO approach enhances the 3D‐printing efficiency to achieve the best possible printed object quality while simultaneously addressing the inherent trade‐offs from the process of pursuing ideal outcomes relevant to requirements from practitioners. The BO approach also enables us to effectively explore 3D‐printing inputs inclusive of layer height, nozzle travel speed, and dispensing pressure, as well as visualize the trade‐offs between each set of 3D‐printing inputs in terms of the output objectives which consist of time, porosity, and geometry precisions through the Pareto front.
Thionation‐Induced Enhancement of Optical and Electronic Properties in NDI Molecule for Molecular Electronic Applications: A Computational Study Using DFT/TD‐DFT and QTAIM Theory
Authors: Hadi Hamid , Shamlouei Hamid Reza
Published: August 2024

The study investigates the impact of thionation on N,N'‐di(dodecyl)‐4,5,8,9‐naphthalene diimide (NDI) through computational methods such as density functional theory (DFT/TD‐DFT), quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM), and Landauer theory (LT). Thionation, involving the replacement of diamide oxygens with sulfurs in NDI, significantly enhances quantum‐electronic/thermoelectric properties. Computational analyzes of energy of frontier orbitals HOMO/LUMO, dipole moment, polarizability, first superpolarizability, UV spectrum, and cohesive energy show the superior performance of the thione structure (M2) compared to the pristine structure (M1). Thionation decreased the energy gap from 01.3 eV (in M1 structure) to 1.87 eV (in M2 structure). The absorption wavelength in the pristine structure (M1) is calculated to be 507 nm, which increased to 1067 nm after thionation (M2). Cohesive energy values for each of M1 and M2 structures are calculated as 12.76 and 12.89 Kcal mol−1, respectively, which indicates the improvement of stability after thionation. After connecting M1 and M2 to gold electrodes (Au‐M1‐Au and Au‐M2‐Au) and applying electric fields, the Au‐M2‐Au structure shows a lower energy gap, lower thermoelectric activity and higher conductivity at field intensities with higher than 140 × 10−4 (a.u.), indicating its use as a field‐effect molecular device (such as molecular wire or molecular switch).
Evaluation of three irrigation application systems for watermelon production in the Texas High Plains
Authors: Leiva Soto Andrea , Shrestha Rajan , Xue Qingwu , Colaizzi Paul , O'Shaughnessy Susan , Workneh Fekede , Adhikari Ranjeeta , Rush Charles
Published: August 2024

About 90% of the Texas High Plains area depends on the water supply from the Ogallala aquifer. The decline of the Ogallala water table raises a concern for the sustainability of producing the traditional irrigated field crops due to their high water demand. Thus, diversifying cropping systems may be a solution. However, about 70% of the irrigated cropland uses center pivots that may negatively impact specialty crop quality. Thus, a 3‐year experiment was conducted to assess the potential of using mobile drip irrigation (MDI) to produce fresh watermelon compared to center pivot sprinkler irrigation using low‐elevation spray application (LESA), and surface drip irrigation with plastic mulch (DI). The study evaluated the effects of irrigation systems on crop yield, fruit quality, physiological responses, water use efficiency (WUE), and irrigation use efficiency (IUE). On average, plants under MDI had higher yields (106 Mg ha−1) than those under DI (70 Mg ha−1) and LESA (68 Mg ha−1). Plants under MDI and DI also had more fruits per plant (1.9) than those under LESA (1.4). The higher yield was associated with higher biomass and photosynthetic function. In general, fruit quality was not affected by irrigation system. In addition, plants under MDI system showed a higher WUE and IUE, and less water stress than those under LESA and DI systems. Results of this study suggest that irrigating under an MDI system is a good alternative for growers in the Texas High Plains that aim to diversify their cropping system with high‐value vegetable crops such as watermelon (Citrullus lanatus).
Growth and allometric curves of southern brown howler monkey (Alouatta guariba): Insights on its ontogeny and conservation
Authors: Mariotto Lucas Ferriolli , Dada Aline Naissa , Campos da Silva Thiago , Beirith Alessandra , Francisco Sheila Regina Schmidt , de Souza Junior Júlio Cesar , Ebert Kaio Gutieres , Schelemberg de Oliverira Jenefer , Hirano Zelinda Maria Braga
Published: August 2024

Ontogenetic sexual dimorphism is observed in different primate species, with ecological and evolutionary relationships explaining this pattern. Understanding the growth of the southern brown howler monkey elucidates not only the ecology and evolution but also contributes to conservation projects for this species. Throughout 20 years of the Centro de Pesquisas Biológicas de Indaial—Projeto Bugio, Brazil, we collected morphological data on 105 howlers of the Alouatta guariba species to identify the growth differences between ontogenetic categories and sexes and generate a growth curve to estimate the age of rescued individuals. Linear measurements were employed to obtain body length as well as the dimensions of the head and limbs. All individuals were also weighed to obtain body mass. We assessed growth rate and duration using allometric analysis based on the individuals' ages. We compared growth rate and duration among infant, juvenile, and adult howlers and between sexes. We provide growth curves for body size for both sexes using the Von Bertalanffy model. Infants have accelerated growth rate in comparison to the juveniles and adults, with no differences between sexes in establishing body length at this ontogenetic stage. Males have a prolonged development duration from the juvenile stage, reaching adulthood later than females, which explains the body length differences found in this species. Variables of head and limbs analyzed also showed differences in growth rate and duration, but not so consistently among ontogenetic stages. Mass was not a good variable to understand the growth differences of the animals, since many arrived feeble in the project and may have lost mass due to different circumstances in old age. Therefore, growth curves were obtained only for body length, allowing the estimation of the age of these animals when rescued from the wild to more effectively provide needed care in captivity.
Dual Redox‐active Covalent Organic Framework‐based Memristors for Highly‐efficient Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Zhang Qiongshan , Che Qiang , Wu Dongchuang , Zhao Yunjia , Chen Yu , Xuan Fuzhen , Zhang Bin
Published: August 2024

Organic memristors based on covalent organic frameworks (COFs) exhibit significant potential for future neuromorphic computing applications. The preparation of high‐quality COF nanosheets through appropriate structural design and building block selection is critical for the enhancement of memristor performance. In this study, a novel room‐temperature single‐phase method was used to synthesize Ta−Cu3 COF, which contains two redox‐active units: trinuclear copper and triphenylamine. The resultant COF nanosheets were dispersed through acid‐assisted exfoliation and subsequently spin‐coated to fabricate a high‐quality COF film on an indium tin oxide (ITO) substrate. The synergistic effect of the dual redox‐active centers in the COF film, combined with its distinct crystallinity, significantly reduces the redox energy barrier, enabling the efficient modulation of 128 non‐volatile conductive states in the Al/Ta−Cu3 COF/ITO memristor. Utilizing a convolutional neural network (CNN) based on these 128 conductance states, image recognition for ten representative campus landmarks was successfully executed, achieving a high recognition accuracy of 95.13 % after 25 training epochs. Compared to devices based on binary conductance states, the memristor with 128 conductance states exhibits a 45.56 % improvement in recognition accuracy and significantly enhances the efficiency of neuromorphic computing.
Examining how media age affects organic matter removal in activated carbon filtration
Authors: Bernstein Daniel R. , Glasgow Graeme D. E. , Lay Mark C. , Manley‐Harris Merilyn
Published: August 2024

Water samples from Waiora Drinking Water Treatment Plant in New Zealand were analyzed using excitation‐emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy (EEMS) and parallel factor (PARAFAC) analysis to evaluate organic matter removal across the plant. The assessment also included the individual granular activated carbon (GAC) filters since the filters had varying media ages due to partial media replacement over a 10‐month period, presenting a unique assessment opportunity. PARAFAC analysis identified humic‐like, tyrosine‐protein‐like, and tryptophan‐protein‐like components representing fluorescent dissolved organic matter groups. The humic‐like component strongly correlated with total organic carbon (TOC) concentration and removal was significantly influenced by filter media age. However, protein‐like components had minimal TOC correlation and were not effectively removed by the overall plant treatment irrespective of filter media age. These findings have implications for disinfection, taste and odor, and bacterial regrowth and require an improved media replacement strategy. Further study of the protein‐like components is required.
Exploring the Possibility of Aluminum Plating/Stripping from a Non‐Corrosive Al(OTf)3‐Based Electrolyte
Authors: Talari Mahla , Sarapulova Angelina , Zemlyanushin Eugen , Sabi Noha , Hofmann Andreas , Trouillet Vanessa , Dsoke Sonia
Published: August 2024

Rechargeable aluminum batteries offer a promising candidate for energy storage systems, due to the aluminum (Al) abundance source. However, the development of non‐corrosive electrolytes, facilitating reversible Al plating/stripping, is a critical challenge to overcome. This study investigates the feasibility of Al plating on a platinum (Pt) substrate using a non‐corrosive trifluoromethanesulfonate (Al(OTf)3)/N‐methylacetamide (NMA)/urea electrolyte. This electrolyte was proposed earlier as an alternative chloroaluminate‐based ionic liquid, but Al plating/stripping was not proved. In this work, various techniques, including cyclic voltammetry, scanning electron microscope/energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, operando optical microscopy and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM), gas chromatography (GC), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were employed to understand the Al plating/stripping behavior. While cyclic voltammetry indicates redox activity on Pt, further analysis reveals no significant plating. Instead, hydrogen evolution reaction, promoted by the water‐residue, dominates the observed current, confirmed by operando microscopy and GC measurements. EQCM studies suggest the concurrent adsorption/desorption of Al(OH)2+ and Al3+ ions on the Pt electrode. Further drying the electrolyte reduces the hydrogen evolution, but plating of metallic Al remains elusive. These findings highlight the need for further optimization of the electrolyte composition to achieve efficient Al plating/stripping.
Developing a fluorescent probe containing benzofuranone moiety for imaging sulphite in living hypoxia pulmonary cells
Authors: Xie Anqin , Shi Jingyi , Yang Wenlong
Published: August 2024

In this work, a benzofuranone‐derived fluorescent probe BFSF was developed for imaging the sulphite level in living hypoxia pulmonary cells. Under the excitation of 510 nm, BFSF showed a strong fluorescence response at 570 nm when reacted with sulphite. In the solution system, the constructed hypercapnia and serious hypercapnia conditions did not affect the fluorescence response. In comparison with the recently reported probes, BFSF suggested the advantages including rapid response, steady signal reporting, high specificity and low cytotoxicity upon living lung cells. Under a normal incubation atmosphere, BFSF realized the imaging of both exogenous and endogenous sulphite in living pulmonary cells. In particular, BFSF achieved imaging the decrease of the sulphite level under severe hypoxia as well as the recovery of the sulphite level with urgent oxygen supplement. With the imaging capability for the sulphite level in living pulmonary cells under hypoxia conditions, BFSF together with the information herein was meaningful for investigating the anaesthesia‐related biological indexes.