bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Report on the Occurrence of Cicada, Platypleura octoguttata (Hemiptera: Cicadidae) on Eucalyptus in Gujarat
Authors: Dabhi M. R.  , Raghunandan B. L.  , Patel N. B.  , Rukhsar  , Patel, S. R.
Published: September 2023

In order to determine the cicadas spotted on the Eucalyptus plants grown nearby to the college, Anand Agricultural University, Jabugam, between April and June 2022, an investigation was conducted. Adults were brought to the Department of Entomology lab at the College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Jabugam, for identification in addition to do further research. It is confirmed that the pest is cicadas on the Eucalyptus plant that have been reported from Gujarat, India, based on the morphological traits of the adults and DNA fingerprinting.
Effect of Rice Straw Management on Growth Attributes of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)
Authors: Yugvinder  , Bora Lila , Panghal V. P. S. , Gill Vikas , Kumar Naveen
Published: September 2023

India is the second- largest producer of rice in the world, with 43.86 million hectares of land under rice cultivation where the crop residue generated is more than 160 million tons per year. The rice straw management is a challenging task in rice-producing regions. So, there is a need for an effective waste disposal technology for converting this waste into some valuable form. Keeping this in view,the present investigation was undertaken during the winter (Rabi) season of 2021-22 and 2022-23 at the Research Farm of the KVK Jagdishpur, Sonipat, Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana to evaluate the effect of rice straw management on the growth attributes of potato.The seed material of potatocv. “KufriKhyati” was grown with twelve different rice straw treatment combinations. The experimental results revealed that the treatment T1 (Removing of straw + Planting) which was at par with treatment T9 (Urea (50kg/ha) + WD (25lt/ha) + FYM (1ton/ha) + Mixing of chopped straw + Planting) performed superiorly over the other treatments with significantly higher values for growth attributes viz., plant emergence (%), plant height (cm), number of stems per hill and number of leaves per hill.
Response of Different Moisture Regimes and Nitrogen Sources on Soil Health, Growth and Yield Attributes of Wheat: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kumar Suneel , Sharma Anant , Pandey Santosh , Paul Shantonu , Mishra Hariom , Kesarwani Amit , Kumar Sandeep , Jha Ayushi , Singh Shubham , Tiwari Himanshu
Published: September 2023

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), a ancestor of the Poaceae family, is one of the most important cereal crops in the world. On a global scale, wheat is the main cereal that is cultivated and produced most widely. Irrigation has been essential to keep wheat a key food crop around the world. In response to climate change, it is also becoming more important. In response to better irrigation management, a key aspect in increasing water productivity and maintaining the viability of water resource use in agricultural production. At all growth stages of the crop, the wheat crop's growth and yield characteristics improved with rising levels of moisture regime. The performance of the yield component parts has been linked to higher nitrogen fertilization levels.
An Update of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitative Measures in Long-COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sattar Lubna , Amanze Ngozi , Eshete Filagot D. , Ugwuja Ferdinand , Abdelwahed Ahmed R. , Okonkwo Chijioke , Shahnoor Husna , Adekoya Halimah Aderinsola , Gadireddi Durgaprasad , Louise-Oluwasanmi Olusayo , Mubasher Sidra Shahid , Osamede Agho , Humayun Ghulam Muhammad , Mejia Isabella Vittorino , Batti Patrick
Published: September 2023

Background: The long-term effects of COVID-19 on patients have become an emergent concern. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of various post-acute care interventions for COVID-19 patients.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines across three databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The studies were independently evaluated by two reviewers based on their relevance to the research question, which pertains to the effectiveness of interventions such as home-based pulmonary rehabilitation, inspiratory muscle training, pharmacological treatments, and novel technological methods.

Results: Our review included seven studies, each demonstrating improvement in physical and respiratory function, as well as in quality of life, following diverse interventions. Home-based pulmonary rehabilitation, with and without telecoaching, appeared to improve functional outcomes and decrease dyspnea and fatigue. Pharmacological interventions, such as Treamid, showed promise, particularly in women. EMG-driven rehabilitation robots demonstrated feasibility and safety, while H2 inhalation may also be a viable approach.

Conclusion: Post-acute care interventions, tailored to individual patient needs, can potentially improve health outcomes in COVID-19 patients. However, the heterogeneity of the included studies necessitates further large-scale randomized controlled trials to definitively ascertain the effectiveness of these interventions.
Isolation and Molecular Detection of Klebsiella pneumoniae from Children Affected by Pneumonia in Dinajpur District, Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md. Ashikur , Begum Mst. Deloara , Afroz Farzana , Rahman Md. Khalechur
Published: September 2023

The study was conducted to isolate and identify Klebsiella pneumoniae from children affected by pneumonia in Dinajpur district. This research includes sample collection from pneumonia affected children, isolation and identification of Klebsiella pneumoniae from those samples, molecular detection and antibiotic sensitivity of the identified bacteria. In this research, the samples were collected from nasal secretion of children between 6 months to 10 years old. Then isolation, identification and molecular characterization of Klebsiella pneumoniae from those samples were done. The collection of samples and research work was carried out from May, 2020 to April, 2021. All research work was performed in the Bacteriology laboratory of Microbiology Department, HSTU, Dinajpur. To conduct the study, a total 60 samples were collected from 4 different hospitals in Dinajpur district. Then the samples were brought to the Bacteriology laboratory, Department of Microbiology, HSTU and divided into 5 age category. These samples were then processed and cultural tests were performed in various differential and selective media. Then selected samples were chosen for biochemical tests. After analysing biochemical test results, further selected samples were passed for molecular test to identify the presence of Klebsiella pneumoniae. At last antibiotic sensitivity tests were performed.

In this test, specific primer for Klebsiella pneumoniae was used to detect the presence of bacteria in the samples. After the cultural, biochemical and molecular tests, total 7 (11.66%) samples were positive among 60 isolates. Among those samples, 2 samples were positive between 6 months to 1 year age for the detection of Klebsiella pneumoniae which is around 14.28%, 2 samples were positive between 1 year to 3 years age which is around 15.38%, 1 sample was positive between 3 years to 5 years age which is around 10%, 1 sample was positive between 5 years to 7 years age which is around 8.33% and 1 sample was positive between 7 years to 10 years age which is around 9.09%. Then molecular detection was done by performing PCR test using specific primer for Klebsiella pneumoniae. At last antibiotic sensitivity test was performed which shows that Klebsiella pneumoniae is resistant to Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Doxycycline, Erythromycin, Penicillin G and sensitive to Gentamicin, Streptomycin, Azithromycin, Levofloxacin, Tetracycline, Neomycin. All the results resemble recent studies as it is a normal inhabitant of human nosocomial pathway but it holds potential threats for children because in immunocompromised condition, infections can be occurred by Klebsiella pneumoniae which can lead to serious illness becoming more and more resistant to antibiotics.
Pregnancy, acquired immunodeficiency virus and covid-19: challenges in prenatal care / Gestação, Vírus Da Imunodeficiência Adquirida (HIV) e covid-19: desafios na assistência ao pré-natal
Authors: Mendonça Katiane da Silva , Santos Amuzza Aylla Pereira dos , Lucena Tâmara Silva de , Santos Ana Lívia Clemente , Torres Barbara Vitória dos Santos , Moraes Marianny Medeiros de
Published: September 2023

Objetivo: evidenciar os desafios existentes durante o pré-natal em mulheres grávidas soropositivas para o Vírus da Imunodeficiência Adquirida durante um período pandêmico. Método: Trata-se de uma pesquisa quantitativa exploratória de caráter descritivo, utilizando-se de levantamento de dados através de entrevistas em campo com 19 gestantes com Vírus da Imunodeficiência Adquirida de um serviço de assistência especializada, entre julho de 2021 e julho de 2022. Resultados: apontaram dificuldades para agendar consultas, realizar exames e acesso aos resultados, dificuldades para conseguir transporte devido a distância da unidade de infectologia e dificuldade para agendar consultas na unidade básica de saúde. Conclusão: o serviço de assistência especializada realizou a reorganização da assistência para diminuir os desafios presentes, que foram dificuldade de acesso a unidade, marcação e acesso a resultado de exames pré-natal.
Life conditions of people living with HIV in a city of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Condições de vida de pessoas vivendo com HIV em um município do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Authors: Ferreira Maria Ines , Souza Fabiana Barros Assumpção de
Published: September 2023

Objetivo: discorrer sobre as condições de vida das pessoas vivendo com HIV em um município do estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Método: estudo do tipo transversal, descritivo, de natureza qualitativa. A coleta de dados foi através de entrevistas, sendo os achados submetidos à técnica de análise de conteúdo. A amostra foi composta por pessoas vivendo com HIV que eram abordados no momento que compareciam ao serviço de assistência especializada, sendo definida uma amostra de 20 participantes por técnica de saturação.  Resultado: emergiram categorias com base nos temas abordados na entrevista relacionados à qualidade de vida (condição de alimentação, atividade física, lazer, religião e satisfação com a vida sexual) e à experiência de viver com HIV. Conclusão: as pessoas vivendo com HIV, em tratamento antirretroviral, podem usufruir de boas condições de vida tendo como principal fator impeditivo o medo de vivenciar situações de estigma e discriminação.
Profile of notified cases of work-related mental disorders in nurses in Brazil / Perfil dos casos notificados de transtornos mentais relacionados ao trabalho em enfermeiros no Brasil
Authors: Silva Matheus Vinicius Barbosa da , Silva Heverton Valentim Colaço da , Veras Juliana Lourenço de Araújo , Guimarães Fernanda Jorge
Published: September 2023

Objetivo: analisar os casos de transtornos mentais relacionados ao trabalho em enfermeiros no Brasil, nos anos de 2018 a 2022. Método: estudo ecológico, retrospectivo, realizado por meio da coleta de dados sobre os casos de enfermeiros notificados com Transtorno mental relacionado ao trabalho no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação do Ministério da Saúde. Resultados: Foram notificados 270 casos em enfermeiros nos cinco anos avaliados. Destes, 91,1% (n=246) foram no sexo feminino, 59,6% (n=161) na faixa etária de 30-49 anos, 40% (n=108) com anos de tempo de trabalho. O diagnóstico mais notificado foi o de transtornos neuróticos, relacionados com “stress” e transtornos somatoformes (46,3%; n=125). 48,15% (n=130) evoluíram para incapacidade temporária. Houve associação significativa entre os transtornos mentais relacionados ao trabalho e o uso de álcool, substâncias psicoativas e psicofármacos. Conclusão: Verificou-se um aumento no número das notificações dos Transtornos Mentais Relacionados ao Trabalho entre os anos analisados.
Working conditions and depressive symptomatology in intensive care nurses during the Covid-19 pandemic / Condições de trabalho e sintomatologia depressiva em enfermeiros intensivistas durante a pandemia Covid-19
Authors: Zucoloto Giovanni Roberto , Marcolan João Fernando
Published: September 2023

Objetivo: analisar condições de trabalho associadas sintomatologia depressiva em enfermeiras intensivistas na pandemia COVID-19. Método: pesquisa qualitativa, análise de conteúdo; com enfermeiras de UTIs de hospital de São Paulo/SP; entrevista por questionário semiestruturado. Resultados: 68 participantes de 9 UTIs, maioria feminino, 28-45 anos, tempo de formação, atuação na instituição, experiência na UTI na instituição, experiência na enfermagem UTI entre 1-8 anos; não possuía outro emprego; carga horária semanal 38 - 60 h -mais; 10 com diagnóstico prévio para depressão, 16 com depressão leve, moderada. Condições de trabalho relacionadas sintomatologia depressiva: sobrecarga por intensidade da carga laboral e admissão emergencial de profissionais não capacitados em UTI; chefia ausente; colegas sem interesse; impotência/sofrimento pelos pacientes, óbitos; falta de material; medo infectar familiares; discriminação familiar por ser linha de frente; medo infectar-se. Influência negativa na assistência prestada. Considerações finais: sintomatologia depressiva associada às condições inadequadas de trabalho nas UTIs, agravadas pela pandemia COVID-19.
Mitochondrial Artificial K+ Channel Construction Using MPTPP@5F8 Nanoparticles for Overcoming Cancer Drug Resistance via Disrupting Cellular Ion Homeostasis
Authors: Ma Panqin , Luo Zheng , Li Zhiguo , Lin Yuchao , Li Zibiao , Wu Zhen , Ren Changliang , Wu Yun‐Long
Published: September 2023

Mitochondrial potassium ion channels have become a promising target for cancer therapy. However, in malignant tumors, their low expression or inhibitory regulation typically leads to undesired cancer therapy, or even induces drug resistance. Herein, this work develops an in situ mitochondria‐targeted artificial K+ channel construction strategy, with the purpose to trigger cancer cell apoptosis by impairing mitochondrial ion homeostasis. Considering the fact that cancer cells have a lower membrane potential than that of normal cells, this strategy can selectively deliver artificial K+ channel molecule 5F8 to the mitochondria of cancer cells, by using a mitochondria‐targeting triphenylphosphine (TPP) modified block polymer (MPTPP) as a carrier. More importantly, 5F8 can further specifically form a K+‐selective ion channel through the directional assembly of crown ethers on the mitochondrial membrane, thereby inducing mitochondrial K+ influx and disrupting ions homeostasis. Thanks to this design, mitochondrial dysfunction, including decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, reduced adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, downregulated antiapoptotic BCL‐2 and MCL‐1 protein levels, and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, can further effectively induce the programmed apoptosis of multidrug‐resistant cancer cells, no matter in case of pump or nonpump dependent drug resistance. In short, this mitochondria‐targeted artificial K+‐selective ion channel construction strategy may be beneficial for potential drug resistance cancer therapy.
Recent Development of Copper‐Based Nanozymes for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Yu Xin , Wang Yawen , Zhang Jian , Liu Jing , Wang Aizhu , Ding Longhua
Published: September 2023

Copper (Cu), an indispensable trace element within the human body, serving as an intrinsic constituent of numerous natural enzymes, carrying out vital biological functions. Furthermore, nanomaterials exhibiting enzyme‐mimicking properties, commonly known as nanozymes, possess distinct advantages over their natural enzyme counterparts, including cost‐effectiveness, enhanced stability, and adjustable performance. These advantageous attributes have captivated the attention of researchers, inspiring them to devise various Cu‐based nanomaterials, such as copper oxide, Cu metal‐organic framework, and CuS, and explore their potential in enzymatic catalysis. This comprehensive review encapsulates the most recent advancements in Cu‐based nanozymes, illuminating their applications in the realm of biochemistry. Initially, it is delved into the emulation of typical enzyme types achieved by Cu‐based nanomaterials. Subsequently, the latest breakthroughs concerning Cu‐based nanozymes in biochemical sensing, bacterial inhibition, cancer therapy, and neurodegenerative diseases treatment is discussed. Within this segment, it is also explored the modulation of Cu‐based nanozyme activity. Finally, a visionary outlook for the future development of Cu‐based nanozymes is presented.
Photoacoustic Imaging Endometriosis Lesions with Nanoparticulate Polydopamine as a Contrast Agent
Authors: Lv Quanjie , Zhang Yili , Yang Ruihao , Dai Yingfan , Lin Yu , Sun Kang , Xu Hong , Tao Ke
Published: September 2023

Endometriosis (EM) is a prevalent and debilitating gynecological disorder primarily affecting women of reproductive age. The diagnosis of EM is historically hampered by delays, owing to the absence of reliable diagnostic and monitoring techniques. Herein, it is reported that photoacoustic imaging can be a noninvasive modality for deep‐seated EM by employing a hyaluronic‐acid‐modified polydopamine (PDA@HA) nanoparticle as the contrast agent. The PDA@HA nanoparticles exhibit inherent absorption and photothermal effects when exposed to near‐infrared light, proficiently converting thermal energy into sound waves. Leveraging the targeting properties of HA, distinct photoacoustic signals emanating from the periphery of orthotopic EM lesions are observed. These findings are corroborated through anatomical observations and in vivo experiments involving mice with green fluorescent protein‐labeled EM lesions. Moreover, the changes in photoacoustic intensity over a 24 h period reflect the dynamic evolution of PDA@HA nanoparticle biodistribution. Through the utilization of a photoacoustic ultrasound modality, in vivo assessments of EM lesion volumes are conducted. This innovative approach not only facilitates real‐time monitoring of the therapeutic kinetics of candidate drugs but also obviates the need for the sacrifice of experimental mice. As such, this study presents a promising avenue for enhancing the diagnosis and drug‐screening processes of EM.
ACP‐Mediated Phase Transformation for Collagen Mineralization: A New Understanding of the Mechanism
Authors: Shan Songzhe , Tang Zhenhang , Sun Kaida , Jin Wenjing , Pan Haihua , Tang Ruikang , Yin Wei , Xie Zhijian , Chen Zhuo , Shao Changyu
Published: September 2023

Despite significant efforts utilizing advanced technologies, the contentious debate surrounding the intricate mechanism underlying collagen fibril mineralization, particularly with regard to amorphous precursor infiltration and phase transformation, persists. This work proposes an amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP)‐mediated pathway for collagen fibril mineralization and utilizing stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy technology, and has experimentally confirmed for the first time that the ACP nanoparticles can infiltrate inside collagen fibrils. Subsequently, the ACP‐mediated phase transformation occurs within collagen fibrils to form HAP crystallites, and significantly enhances the mechanical properties of the mineralized collagen fibrils compared to those achieved by the calcium phosphate ion (CPI)‐mediated mineralization and resembles the natural counterpart. Furthermore, demineralized dentin can be effectively remineralized through ACP‐mediated mineralization, leading to complete restoration of its mechanical properties. This work provides a new paradigm of collagen mineralization via particle‐mediated phase transformation, deepens the understanding of the mechanism behind the mineralization of collagen fibrils, and offers a new strategy for hard tissue repair.
Engineered Microbial Nanohybrids for Tumor‐Mediated NIR II Photothermal Enhanced Ferroptosis/Cuproptosis and Immunotherapy
Authors: Ruan Yihang , Zhuang Huilan , Zeng Xuemei , Lin Lili , Wang Xuechun , Xue Panpan , Xu Shan , Chen Qi , Yan Shuangqian , Huang Wei
Published: September 2023

The colon tumor microenvironment has a high concentration of H2S and glutathione, which is highly immunosuppressive and adverse to multiple therapeutic methodologies such as ferroptosis. Here, an engineered microbial nanohybrid based on Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Cu2O nanoparticles to specific colon tumor therapy and immunosuppression reversion is reported. The as‐prepared E. coli@Cu2O hybrid can accumulate in tumor sites upon intravenous injection, and Cu2O nanoparticles convert to CuxS by consuming the endogenous H2S, which exhibits strong photothermal conversion at near‐infrared II (NIR II) biological window. Furthermore, E. coli@Cu2O is able to induce cellular ferroptosis and cuproptosis through inactivation of glutathione peroxidase 4 and aggregation of dihydrolipoamide S‐acetyltransferase, respectively. Photothermal‐enhanced ferroptosis/cuproptosis achieved by E. coli@Cu2O reverses the immunosuppression of colon tumors by triggering dendritic cell maturation (about 30%) and T cell activation (about 50% CD8+ T cells). Concerted with immune checkpoint blockade, the engineered microbial nanohybrid can inhibit the growth of abscopal tumors upon NIR illumination. Overall, the designed microbial nanohybrid can achieve tumor‐specific photothermal‐enhanced ferroptosis/cuproptosis and immunosuppression reversion, showing promise in precise tumor therapy in future clinical translation.
Engineering A Boron‐Rich Interphase with Nonflammable Electrolyte toward Stable Li||NCM811 Cells Under Elevated Temperature
Authors: Yang Chao , Zheng Mengting , Qu Rui , Zhang Hanyin , Yin Luming , Hu Wenxi , Han Jin , Lu Jun , You Ya
Published: September 2023

Despite the high energy of LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) cathode, it still suffers serious decay due to the continuous solvents decomposition and unstable cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) layers, especially under high temperatures. The intense exothermic reaction between delithiated NCM811 and flammable electrolyte, on the other hand, pushes the batteries to their safety limit. Herein, these two issues are tackled via engineering the electrolytes, that is, utilizing salts with higher HOMO levels and nonflammable solvents with lower HOMO levels, to reduce the massive decomposition of solvents and improve battery safety under elevated temperatures. Consequently, a thin and boron‐rich CEI is generated, which effectively inhibited the side reactions, thus improving the cycling stability and safety. Deviated from the highly concentrated electrolytes which heavily relies on the usage of massive salts, the electrolyte recipe can introduce a robust inorganic‐rich CEI but use much less salt (i.e., dilute electrolyte), and thus, offer an encouraging alternative toward practical applications. As such, the NCM811 cathode exhibits a high‐capacity retention of 81.2% after 950 cycles at 25 °C and 75% after 300 cycles at 55 °C. This work provides a universal electrolyte design strategy for designing stable and safe high‐temperature electrolytes for the NCM811 cathode.
Laser‐Based Selective Material Processing for Next‐Generation Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Park Huijae , Park Jung Jae , Bui Phuong‐Danh , Yoon Hyeokjun , Grigoropoulos Costas P. , Lee Daeho , Ko Seung Hwan
Published: September 2023

The connection between laser‐based material processing and additive manufacturing is quite deeply rooted. In fact, the spark that started the field of additive manufacturing is the idea that two intersecting laser beams can selectively solidify a vat of resin. Ever since, laser has been accompanying the field of additive manufacturing, with its repertoire expanded from processing only photopolymer resin to virtually any material, allowing liberating customizability. As a result, additive manufacturing is expected to take an even more prominent role in the global supply chain in years to come. Herein, an overview of laser‐based selective material processing is presented from various aspects: the physics of laser‐material interactions, the materials currently used in additive manufacturing processes, the system configurations that enable laser‐based additive manufacturing, and various functional applications of next‐generation additive manufacturing. Additionally, current challenges and prospects of laser‐based additive manufacturing are discussed.
Mucosa‐Inspired Electro‐Responsive Lubricating Supramolecular‐Covalent Hydrogel
Authors: Kang Jianye , Zhang Xuewei , Yang Xinyu , Yang Xuhao , Wang Shutao , Song Wenlong
Published: September 2023

Enabling the living capability of secreting liquids dynamically triggered by external stimuli while maintaining the bulk frame is a significant challenge for mucosa‐inspired hydrogels. A mucosa‐inspired electro‐responsive hydrogel is developed in this study using the synergy between electro‐responsive silk fibroin supramolecular non‐covalent networks and covalent polyacrylamide and polyvinyl alcohol polymer networks. The formed supramolecular‐covalent hydrogel exhibits a partial gel‐sol transition upon the application of an electric field, and the liquid layer on the hydrogel surface near the cathode is used to mimic the mucus‐secreting capability to regulate lubrication. The electro‐responsive lubricating process can operate under a safe voltage and exhibits good reversibility. It is also a universal strategy to construct an electro‐responsive hydrogel by introducing an electro‐responsive supramolecular network into the polymer network. This mucosa‐inspired electro‐responsive supramolecular‐covalent hydrogel offers a promising method for designing soft actuators or robots that can regulate lubrication using an electric strategy.
Noise Spectroscopy Analysis of Ion Behavior in Liquid Gate‐All‐Around Silicon Nanowire Field‐Effect Transistor Biosensors
Authors: Zhang Yongqiang , Boichuk Nazarii , Pustovyi Denys , Chekubasheva Valeriia , Long Hanlin , Petrychuk Mykhailo , Vitusevich Svetlana
Published: September 2023

The transport and noise properties of fabricated, high‐performance, gate‐all‐around silicon liquid‐gated nanowire field‐effect transistor devices are investigated in different concentrations of MgCl2 solutions. The critical concentration of MgCl2 solution for charge inversion at the solid‐liquid interface is verified using noise spectroscopy and confirmed using the capacitance‐voltage measurement technique. In this study, it is found that the Hooge parameter (αH) and the equivalent input noise (SU) can effectively reflect the ion behavior on the surface of the nanowire. Moreover, the noise curves for αH and SU indicate two turning points at concentrations of 10−4 and 10−1 m for a peak and a valley, respectively. The noise transformation is related to the behavior of ions near the solid‐liquid interface in solutions with different MgCl2 concentrations is revealed. The results show that noise spectroscopy is a powerful method for monitoring charge dynamic processes in the research field of biosensors.
Effects of climatic factors on carbohydrate composition of soybeans in Argentina
Authors: Marioli Nobile Carla Georgina , Balzarini Mónica , Grosso Rubén , Soldini Diego , Zossi Silvia , Martínez María José
Published: September 2023

Carbohydrates are the second largest component of soybean seeds and include soluble sugars, a major source of energy. However, some oligosaccharides such as the raffinose family of oligosaccharides (RFOs) are considered antinutritional factors. In Argentina, the soybean crop area shows high climatic variation during the seed‐filling period (R5–R7), affecting seed composition. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of climatic traits on carbohydrate (CHO) seed composition of different cultivar types. Daily air temperature and solar radiation were measured during R5–R7 in two soybean varieties: (non‐transgenic) ALIM3.14 and a commercial. Precipitation and evapotranspiration during the crop season (R1–R7) were used to calculate a hydric balance proxy. ALIM 3.14 showed a better CHO profile than the commercial soybean. ALIM 3.14 had lower stachyose and total RFOs (25.1 and 28.9 g kg−1) than the commercial cultivar (37.3 and 42.3 g kg−1), respectively. Air temperature explained variations in CHO. A decrease in sucrose was observed with the increase in mean temperature (−2.65 g 100 g−1 per °C). Sucrose/total RFO and total sugar concentration also declined with increasing mean temperature −0.10 g 100 g−1 per °C and −0.35 g 100 g−1 per °C, respectively. Soybean with desired nutritional profile for specialties, such as high sucrose concentration and low raffinose, were obtained at cool temperatures (<19.4°C) during seed filling. Producers and breeders can use this information to identify climatic variable thresholds that maximize the concentration of sugars in seeds and select traits and environments useful to improve soybean under climate warming conditions.
Worker studies suggest unique liver carcinogenicity potential of polyvinyl chloride microplastics
Authors: Zarus Gregory M. , Muianga Custodio , Brenner Stephan , Stallings Katie , Casillas Gaston , Pohl Hana R. , Mumtaz M. Moiz , Gehle Kimberly
Published: September 2023

Background

Plastic debris pervades our environment. Some breaks down into microplastics (MPs) that can enter and distribute in living organisms causing effects in multiple target organs. MPs have been demonstrated to harm animals through environmental exposure. Laboratory animal studies are still insufficient to evaluate human impact. And while MPs have been found in human tissues, the health effects at environmental exposure levels are unclear.

Aim

We reviewed and summarized existing evidence on health effects from occupational exposure to MPs. Additionally, the diverse effects documented for workers were organized by MP type and associated co‐contaminants. Evidence of the unique effects of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) on liver was then highlighted.

Methods

We conducted two stepwise online literature reviews of publications focused on the health risks associated with occupational MP exposures. This information was supplemented with findings from animal studies.

Results

Our analysis focused on 34 published studies on occupational health effects from MP exposure with half involving exposure to PVC and the other half a variety of other MPs to compare. Liver effects following PVC exposure were reported for workers. While PVC exposure causes liver toxicity and increases the risk of liver cancers, including angiosarcomas and hepatocellular carcinomas, the carcinogenic effects of work‐related exposure to other MPs, such as polystyrene and polyethylene, are not well understood.

Conclusion

The data supporting liver toxicity are strongest for PVC exposure. Overall, the evidence of liver toxicity from occupational exposure to MPs other than PVC is lacking. The PVC worker data summarized here can be useful in assisting clinicians evaluating exposure histories from PVC exposure and designing future cell, animal, and population exposure‐effect research studies.
Optimizing cryopreservation of nasal polyp tissue for cellular functional studies and single‐cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Sohail Aaqib , Baloh Carolyn H. , Hacker Jonathan , Cho Laura , Ryan Tessa , Bergmark Regan W. , Lee Stella E. , Maxfield Alice , Roditi Rachel , Dwyer Daniel F. , Buchheit Kathleen M. , Laidlaw Tanya M.
Published: September 2023

Key points

Mast cell numbers were reduced in samples cryopreserved as whole tissue chunks.

Thawed epithelial cells had reduced proliferation rates when preserved as dissociated cell suspensions.

The right cryopreservation method to choose may depend on the goals and cell‐type focus of the project.
Analysis of teamwork skill development in a flipped civil engineering course
Authors: Karabulut‐Ilgu Aliye , Madson Katherine , Miner Nathan , Shane Jennifer , Burzette Rebecca
Published: September 2023

As an innovative pedagogy, flipped classroom approach enables instructors to move direct instruction out of class and convert class time to a dynamic learning environment where students engage in teamwork, problem‐solving, and other interactive activities. Previous research has concluded that, when implemented well, flipped learning has the potential not only to increase learning gain but also to improve students’ professional skills such as teamwork, communication, and life‐long learning, which are deemed to be critical in engineering education and practice. This study aimed to examine the development of teamwork skills in a flipped civil engineering course. A sequential mixed‐method approach was adopted to understand students’ attitude toward teamwork, confidence in teamwork, and teamwork skill development. Quantitative data included pre‐ and postcourse surveys and peer evaluation (PE) and self‐evaluation (SE) while qualitative data included focus group interviews. Results indicated that students’ attitudes toward teamwork slightly improved, but it was not statistically significant. Confidence in teamwork, however, significantly improved after being engaged in a semester‐long team project. Teamwork skill development was assessed through four PE and SE conducted after each major project milestone. Findings are discussed and implications for classroom implementations and future research are presented.
Flexor tenotomies for the treatment of bilateral wrist contracture after traumatic brain injury: A case report
Authors: Brown Elizabeth , Kastner Tyler , Harder Justin , Cox Cameron , MacKay Brendan
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

Traumatic brain injuries have the potential to cause the development of long‐term complications. We aim to show that the use of flexor tenotomies in the treatment of flexion contractures following traumatic brain injury is a viable solution.
Impact of root architecture and transpiration rate on drought tolerance in stay‐green sorghum
Authors: Djanaguiraman Maduraimuthu , Gowsiga Srinivasan , Govindaraj Mahalingam , Habyarimana Ephrem , Senthil Alagarswamy , Thavaprakaash Nallasamy , Jeyakumar Prabhakaran , Kokilavani Jayavel , Chellammal Chellapandiyan
Published: September 2023

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] yield loss due to terminal drought stress is common in semiarid regions. Stay‐green is a drought adaptation trait, and a deeper understanding of stay‐green‐associated traits is necessary for sorghum breeding. We hypothesize that the stay‐green trait in sorghum may be associated with the root architecture and transpiration rate under drought stress. The objectives were to (i) identify the relationship among stay‐green‐associated traits, (ii) compare the root system architecture and transpiration rate of stay‐green (B35 and 296B) and senescent (BTx623 and R16) genotypes under drought stress, and (iii) quantify the impacts of reproductive stage drought stress on gas exchange and grain yield of stay‐green and senescent genotypes. A series of drought experiments were conducted with these genotypes. Under drought stress, the stay‐green genotypes had an increased total root length in the top 30–60 cm (18%) and 60–90 cm of soil (45%) than the senescent genotypes. In contrast, under progressive soil drying, stay‐green genotypes had a decreased transpiration rate (9%) than senescent genotypes by an early (∼1 h) partial closure of stomata under high vapor pressure deficit conditions. The increased seed yield (43%) in stay‐green genotypes is due to an increased photosynthetic rate (30%) and individual seed size (35%) than senescent genotypes. Overall, it is concluded that stay‐green phenotypes had two distinct drought adaptive mechanisms: (i) increased root length for increased soil exploration for water and (ii) an early decrease in the transpiration rate to conserve soil moisture. Identifying genomic markers for these traits would accelerate drought‐tolerant sorghum breeding.
Advanced adaptive algorithm controlled single‐phase DSTATCOM operation during weak grid conditions
Authors: Chankaya Mukul , Aijaz Masiha , Hussain Ikhlaq , Ahmad Aijaz , Lone Shameem Ahmad
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the performance of a single‐phase utility‐tied distribution static compensator (DSTATCOM) with nonlinear load operating under weak grid conditions. The DSTATCOM is controlled by a complex kernel risk‐sensitive p‐power (CKRSP) algorithm. Ever‐increasing nonlinearity of the load, rapidly increasing renewable energy system installed capacity, and rising heating loads, especially during the winter season, lead to various power quality issues that worsen during weak grid conditions. An advanced adaptive control scheme, that is, CKRSP, enforces the system to perform various multifaceted operations, including harmonics suppression, handling rapid load variations, voltage sag and swell, and active and reactive power control at the point of common coupling (PCC) during weak grid conditions. The proposed CKRSP algorithm outperforms conventional control algorithms regarding steady‐state error, convergence speed, and accuracy. During weak grid conditions, the proposed system ensures stable DC bus voltage with a reduced second harmonic component. This further assists the CKRSP control in better extracting the fundamental load current component using a smoother loss component of current
. The proposed system can handle various power quality issues during weak grid conditions while ensuring the overall system's stability. The laboratory prototype results show that the presented system performs satisfactorily under weak grid conditions per IEEE 519‐2014 standards.
Development of a three‐phase power‐flow calculation method for distribution systems with automatic handling of arbitrary winding connections of transformers
Authors: Cirilo Leandro Guilherme , Noda Taku
Published: September 2023

Single‐phase loads and photovoltaic generation cause three‐phase imbalance in distribution systems, and prospective growth of normal chargers of electric vehicles may even increase the imbalance. The analysis of such unbalanced systems requires the three‐phase power‐flow calculation. Since existing methods require the admittance matrices of three‐phase transformers, they must be derived for all possible winding connection patterns in advance to its computer‐code implementation. This paper proposes a three‐phase power‐flow calculation method which formulates circuit equations using the modified nodal analysis, making it possible to automatically handle any winding connection. The power‐flow constraints are then embedded into the circuit equations using a fixed‐point iteration. Newton‐Raphson, backward/forward sweep and fixed‐point iteration methods are the existing three categories of solution methods. Newton‐Raphson methods may show convergence problems due to the high R/X ratios of distribution lines. Backward/forward sweep methods cannot be used, because loops are temporarily formed in a distribution system during circuit switching. These justify the use of a fixed‐point iteration. In this paper, the proposed method is validated by practical examples.
Study of the inhibitory effect of a soft cushion on the propagation of pressure pulsation in pumped storage power stations
Authors: Yang Liu , Wang Haijun , Yang Xiuwei , Li Huokun
Published: September 2023

High‐frequency pressure pulsations are hydraulic phenomena that are frequently observed in pumped storage power stations. These pulsations can propagate through the steel pipes, concrete lining, and the surrounding rock system, which in turn may have detrimental effects on the environment, such as noise pollution, and relocation of the local residents. This paper proposes a vibration‐damping concept that involves wrapping a local soft cushion layer outside the buried steel pipe; this layer could partially eliminate the pressure fluctuations in the headrace tunnel, thereby reducing the ground vibrations caused by the pressure pulsations. In this study, the finite element method was used to model the propagation of vibrations in the surrounding rock and fluid‐filled pipes, including static simulation of the structure, and dynamic simulation of the surrounding rock. The simulation results suggest that adding an appropriate local soft bedding layer can effectively reduce the ground vibrations by more than 60% and the possible surface noise within the standard vertical vibration norms. The inhibitory effect of the soft cushion on the propagation of vibrations is determined by the wrapping angle, thickness, and material of the bedding layer. This effect increases with increasing wrapping angle and thickness of the bedding layer, and decreases with increasing elastic modulus of the material. After the addition of the bedding layer between the steel pipe and concrete lining, the pressure in the inner pipe is primarily borne by the steel lining rather than the coupling of the steel lining, concrete lining, and the surrounding rock. Hence, the thickness of the part of the steel liner in contact with the soft bedding layer should be increased. In addition, the thickness variations in the steel pipe joints should be smooth to avoid stress concentration.
Crack segmentation in the wild using convolutional neural networks and bootstrapping
Authors: Ahmad Tasweer , Gharehbaghi Vahidreza , Li Jian , Bennett Caroline , Lequesne Rémy
Published: September 2023

Computer vision and deep learning methods have found numerous practical applications over the last decade. The field of structural health monitoring has greatly benefited from such advancements. Accurate crack detection and segmentation are a critical part of structural health monitoring and assessment. In the past decade, researchers have developed different computer vision and deep learning methods to address this challenging task. In this article, we propose to use convolutional neural networks and bootstrapping to improve crack segmentation in the wild. Specifically, we investigate fully convolutional network (FCN) and DeepLabV3 with different ResNet architectures as the back bone and assess their performance. A unique feature of this work is the use of bootstrapping with a segmentation network and image augmentation. Bootstrapping is an important component of our proposed methodology for better extracting features from the datasets. We also incorporate superpixel pooling for FCN which improves performance. We assess the performance of our method using five publicly available datasets, which include a wide variety of crack images such as thin pavement cracks, tree shadows on cracks, cracks in asphalt roads, concrete wall cracks, wide cracks on concrete surfaces, and so on. A comparative study is also performed with several established methods in the literature. Results indicate that overall, our proposed method outperforms other state‐of‐the‐art methods for crack segmentation.
Duration and damping for ground motion characterization in frequency‐domain damage estimation of SDOF structures
Authors: Naqvi Arshil A. , Gupta Vinay K.
Published: September 2023

In estimating the damage to a single‐degree‐of‐freedom (SDOF) structure due to multiple earthquake events, it may be convenient to use a frequency‐based approach, in which the anticipated ground motions are characterized through power spectral density functions (PSDFs) compatible with the specified design spectra for those motions. Since a spectrum‐compatible PSDF corresponds to a fictitious stationary ground motion process of a specified duration, the duration of this process should preferably be same as the length of the stationary segment in the actual ground acceleration process for a meaningful computation of the stochastic response. On assuming the strong‐motion segment of a given ground motion to represent its stationary segment, the nonstationarity of the strong‐motion segment is evaluated for the existing strong‐motion duration definitions. It is found that the Trifunac‐Brady definition is the most reasonable strong‐motion duration definition in respect of consistently giving the longest strong‐motion segment with least nonstationarity. Further, a spectrum‐compatible PSDF can be used for estimating the stochastic response of a linear system, provided the system has the same damping ratio as that of the design spectrum from which the PSDF has been computed. This causes errors in estimating the peak response of an equivalent linear system due to its damping ratio being higher than the initial damping ratio of the nonlinear system. To address this, an empirical expression is developed for the modified damping ratio of a linear system, which would lead to the correct peak response of the system on using the PSDF obtained from the 5%‐damping design spectrum.
Experimental study on characteristics of liquid dynamics in a cylindrical water tank under harmonic excitation
Authors: Zhao Mi , Jia Shaocong , Qu Yang , Du Xiuli , Wang Piguang
Published: September 2023

As the offshore engineering industry continued to develop, issues such as damage to storage structures due to liquid shaking became increasingly prevalent. This paper explored the dynamic response of liquid within a rigid cylindrical water tank subjected to harmonic excitation through vibration table tests, analyses, and numerical simulations. Using the Laplace equation and the Bessel function of the first kind, the analytical formula of liquid dynamic response was derived. A numerical model was established by ANSYS software to verify the accuracy of the analytical solution. At the same time, the response characteristics of hydrodynamic pressure and liquid level wave height were studied by vibration table tests. In this experiment, a rigid cylindrical water tank with varying depths of liquid was subjected to harmonic excitations utilizing a vibration table. In most cases, the experimental results agreed well with the analytical formula. However, under conditions of relatively severe liquid sloshing, there was a discrepancy in peak values between the experiment and the analytical formula. The experimental data indicated that both the hydrodynamic pressure and liquid level wave height increase with an increase in harmonic excitation frequency and amplitude.
Seismic isolated bridge performance evaluation and design proposal using artificial neural network
Authors: Montes Katrina , Dang Ji
Published: September 2023

Seismic isolators such as rubber bearings and other dampers are critical components of seismic design. The hysteresis behavior of such bearings is complicated, and engineers are using a bilinear model or equivalent linearization method in design practice. The response evaluation and initial design parameter assumptions are highly dependent on engineers' expertise and need repeated analysis. Therefore, this study proposed a machine learning‐based approach to conduct bridge seismic isolation performance evaluation and design parameters proposal without repeating the nonlinear simulations. The training data were generated by conducting a nonlinear time history analysis of the bridge structure model with input design earthquakes. Four trained three‐layer neural network models could perform bridge seismic response evaluation, predict the structure's seismic response, and suggest design proposal using some input parameters.