bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Cold Angular Rolling Process of Copper Sheets: Unraveling Plastic Deformation Behavior and Unveiling Microstructural Transformations
Authors: Lee Isshu , Bhatta Laxman , Wu Yun-Hsuan , Daut Lukas , Figueiredo Roberto B. , Liss Klaus-Dieter , Bay Brian K. , Santala Melissa K. , Kawasaki Megumi
Published: August 2023

The cold angular rolling process (CARP) is being developed as a continuous severe plastic deformation technique, which can process metal sheets without any length limitations at room temperature. CARP contains cold rolling and equal‐channel angular process components. The sheet thickness is kept consistent before and after CARP, allowing multiple passes of the sheet. The desired microstructure and mechanical properties can be achieved in the processed metallic sheets. The current study is aimed to evaluate the capability of CARP by processing copper sheets with different sheet widths for repetitive passes. The CARP‐treated sheets are examined by lab‐scale X‐ray and high‐energy synchrotron X‐ray diffraction to investigate the evolution in dislocation density, texture, and strain anisotropy, and by tensile testing to identify the bulk mechanical properties. The digital image correlation method is applied to tensile testing so that strain localization within the sample gauge is visualized and deformation behavior is evaluated after yielding till postnecking by estimating the hardening exponent and strain hardening rate of the CARP‐treated sheet. Comparing the reported continuous and multiple‐step processes on Cu and its alloys, the present study confirms that the CARP is potentially a useful sheet process for strengthening ductile metals.
Comprehensive Review of Electrolyte Modification Strategies for Stabilizing Zn Metal Anodes
Authors: Liang Yuxuan , Qiu Meijia , Sun Peng , Mai Wenjie
Published: August 2023

In response to the need of sustainable development, there is an increasing demand for electrical energy storage, leading to a stimulated pursuit of advanced batteries. Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) have attracted much attention due to their low cost, high safety, and environmental friendliness. Despite the great efforts made by researchers in designing and developing high‐performance AZIBs, several challenges remain. Particularly for Zn anode, the growth of zinc dendrites and occurance of various side reactions significantly hinder the advancement of AZIBs. This review article aims to discuss the principles of AZIBs, the electrolyte's structure and properties, the challenges faced by AZIBs anodesm and the strategies to improve battery performance through electrolyte modification in a systematic manner. In conclusion, potential future directions aimed at enhancing the stability of zinc anodes and cathodes by electrolyte modification strategies are proposed to ensure that research efforts are geared toward achieving realistic performance targets for commercializing AZIBs.
Reversible Information Storage Based on Rhodamine Derivative in Mechanochromic Cholesteric Liquid Crystalline Elastomer
Authors: Zhang Shuoning , Sun Chang , Zhang Jianying , Qin Shengyu , Liu Jiale , Ren Yunxiao , Zhang Lanying , Hu Wei , Yang Huai , Yang Dengke
Published: August 2023

With the demand for the diversity and security of information deliveries increasing, advanced security tag for data encryption has attracted great interest from the scientific community. It is promising to achieve composite dynamic information storage by the combination of multisource stimuli‐responsive mechanism. Here, mechano‐ and chemochromism cholesteric liquid crystal elastomers (CLCEs) are prepared by introducing a rhodamine lactam‐based functional trigger by two different strategies, one of which is one‐pot method and another is postfunctionalization method. The performances of the CLCEs from two strategies are investigated, which are demonstrated to be effective methods in endowing material with new function, and suitable for different application scenarios. The composite material combines the force‐induced structural periodicity variation of CLCE and the pigmentary and fluorescent properties changes of the functional trigger caused by the chemical environment. The orthogonal construction of dynamic structural color pattern and reversible pigmentary and fluorescent colors pattern enable the information in the CLCE to display double encryption mode, which exhibits great potential in the information storage and anti‐counterfeiting.
Exposure to Polystyrene Nanoplastics Led to Learning and Memory Deficits in Zebrafish by Inducing Oxidative Damage and Aggravating Brain Aging
Authors: Zhou Weishang , Tong Difei , Tian Dandan , Yu Yingying , Huang Lin , Zhang Weixia , Yu Yihan , Lu Lingzheng , Zhang Xunyi , Pan Wangqi , Shen Jiawei , Shi Wei , Liu Guangxu
Published: August 2023

Nanoplastics (NPs) may pass through the blood–brain barrier, giving rise to serious concerns about their potential toxicity to the brain. In this study, the effects of NPs exposure on learning and memory, the primary cognitive functions of the brain, are assessed in zebrafish with classic T‐maze exploration tasks. Additionally, to reveal potential affecting mechanisms, the impacts of NPs exposure on brain aging, oxidative damage, energy provision, and the cell cycle are evaluated. The results demonstrate that NP‐exposed zebrafish takes significantly longer for their first entry and spends markedly less time in the reward zone in the T‐maze task, indicating the occurrence of learning and memory deficits. Moreover, higher levels of aging markers (β‐galactosidase and lipofuscin) are detected in the brains of NP‐exposed fish. Along with the accumulation of reactive free radicals, NP‐exposed zebrafish suffer significant levels of brain oxidative damage. Furthermore, lower levels of Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and cyclin‐dependent kinase 2 and higher levels of p53 are observed in the brains of NP‐exposed zebrafish, suggesting that NPs exposure also results in a shortage of energy supply and an arrestment of the cell cycle. These findings suggest that NPs exposure may pose a severe threat to brain health, which deserves closer attention.
Oleic Acid‐Assisted Nucleation Growth of Highly Luminescent CsCu2I3 Single Crystals and Their Films for Flexible and Dynamic High‐Resolution X‐Ray Imaging
Authors: Chen Tao , Li Xin , Lin Feng , Wu Haodi , Mu Dedan , Sun Ziwei , Chen Chen , Liu Ruliang , Yang Jie , Wang Rongfei , Zhao Zhenhuan , Meng Bin , Wen Xiaoming , Bao Jiming , Tang Jiang , Xu Xuhui , Wang Chong
Published: August 2023

Metal‐halide perovskites have emerged as one of the most promising contenders for the next‐generation X‐ray scintillators on account of their large absorption coefficients, high light yields, and low‐cost fabrication. However, the existing X‐ray scintillators are plagued either by poor stability or high toxicity. Here, highly stable and flexible CsCu2I3@polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) composite films are fabricated simply by a facile one‐step drop‐coating technique. Benefiting from the reasonable light yields (24 100 photons MeV−1), short photoluminescence decay time (207 ns), and flat surface, a low detection limit of 39 nGyair s−1 and a record‐high resolution of up to 25 lp mm−1 are demonstrated in these CsCu2I3@PMMA composite films. The X‐ray imaging tests show that the CsCu2I3@PMMA composite films display excellent properties in the dynamic and irregular objects imaging. In addition, the CsCu2I3@PMMA composite films exhibit a desirable endurance to the high‐energy X‐ray's irradiation and the water erosion (photoluminescence quantum yield remains up of 90% of its initial value even after submersion in water for 300 h). This work provides a potential to develop eco‐friendly and highly stable halide perovskite materials for high‐resolution X‐ray imaging.
Graphitic Carbon Nitride Emitter: From Structural Modification to Optoelectronics Applications
Authors: Wang Yunhu , Zhang Mingming , Wang Lei , Xing Jun
Published: August 2023

Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4), as a non‐metallic two‐dimensional semiconductor material, has the advantages of low‐cost, simple synthesis, excellent chemical and thermal stability, etc. Due to its unique electronic band structure, g‐C3N4 exhibits attractive optoelectronic physical properties. In recent years, it has gained significant attention as a photocatalyst with advanced performance. While most of the current research focuses on the field of photo‐electrocatalysis, the material's fascinating optoelectronic physical properties hold great potential in the field of optoelectronic applications. This review highlights the research on the atom‐ and molecule‐modified g‐C3N4’s optoelectronics properties and its application in optoelectronics applications, such as light‐emitting diodes, photovoltaics, and photodetectors, with the aim of attracting more attention from researchers.
Multispectral Quantitative Phase Imaging Using a Diffractive Optical Network
Authors: Shen Che-Yung , Li Jingxi , Mengu Deniz , Ozcan Aydogan
Published: August 2023

As a label‐free imaging technique, quantitative phase imaging (QPI) provides optical path length information of transparent specimens for various applications in biology, materials science, and engineering. Multispectral QPI measures quantitative phase information across multiple spectral bands, permitting the examination of wavelength‐specific phase and dispersion characteristics of samples. Herein, the design of a diffractive processor is presented that can all‐optically perform multispectral quantitative phase imaging of transparent phase‐only objects within a snapshot. The design utilizes spatially engineered diffractive layers, optimized through deep learning, to encode the phase profile of the input object at a predetermined set of wavelengths into spatial intensity variations at the output plane, allowing multispectral QPI using a monochrome focal plane array. Through numerical simulations, diffractive multispectral processors are demonstrated to simultaneously perform quantitative phase imaging at 9 and 16 target spectral bands in the visible spectrum. The generalization of these diffractive processor designs is validated through numerical tests on unseen objects, including thin Pap smear images. Due to its all‐optical processing capability using passive dielectric diffractive materials, this diffractive multispectral QPI processor offers a compact and power‐efficient solution for high‐throughput quantitative phase microscopy and spectroscopy.
Fiber Integrated Metal‐Organic Frameworks as Functional Components in Smart Textiles
Authors: Eagleton Aileen M. , Ambrogi Emma K. , Miller Sophia A. , Vereshchuk Nataliia , Mirica Katherine A.
Published: August 2023

Owing to high modularity and synthetic tunability, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) on textiles are poised to contribute to the development of state‐of‐the‐art wearable systems with multifunctional performance. While these composite materials have demonstrated promising functions in sensing, filtration, detoxification, and biomedicine, their applicability in multifunctional systems is only beginning to materialize. This review highlights the multifunctionality and versatility of MOF‐integrated textile systems. It summarizes the operational goals of MOF@textile composites, encompassing sensing, filtration, detoxification, drug delivery, UV protection, and photocatalysis. Building upon these recent advances, this review concludes with an outlook on emerging opportunities for the diverse applications of MOF@textile systems in the realm of smart wearables.
Ultra Robust and Highly Efficient Flexible Organic Solar Cells with Over 18 % Efficiency Realized by Incorporating a Linker Dimerized Acceptor
Authors: Song Wei , Ye Qinrui , Yang Shuncheng , Xie Lin , Meng Yuanyuan , Chen Zhenyu , Gu Qun , Yang Daobin , Shi Jingyu , Ge Ziyi
Published: August 2023

The wearable application of flexible organic solar cells (f‐OSCs) necessitates high power conversion efficiency (PCE) and mechanical robustness. However, photoactive films based on efficient non‐fullerene small molecule acceptors (NF‐SMAs) are typically brittle, leading to poor mechanical stability in devices. In this study, we achieved a remarkable PCE of 18.06 % in f‐OSCs while maintaining ultrahigh mechanical robustness (with a crack‐onset strain (COS) of higher than 11 %) by incorporating a linker dimerized acceptor (DOY‐TVT). Compared to binary blends, ternary systems exhibit reduced non‐radiative recombination, suppressed crystallization and diffusion of NF‐SMAs, and improved load distribution across the chain networks, enabling the dissipation of the load energy. Thus, the ternary f‐OSCs developed in this study achieved, high PCE and stability, surpassing binary OSCs. Moreover, the developed f‐OSCs retained 97 % of the initial PCE even after 3000 bending cycles, indicating excellent mechanical stability (9.1 % higher than binary systems). Furthermore, the rigid device with inverted structure based on the optimal active layer exhibited a substantial increase in efficiency retention, with 89.6 % after 865 h at 85 °C and 93 % after more than 1300 h of shelf storage at 25 °C. These findings highlight the potential of the linker oligomer acceptor for realizing high‐performing f‐OSCs with ultrahigh mechanical robustness.
Diaryl Dihydrophenazine‐Based Porous Organic Polymers Enhance Synergistic Catalysis in Visible‐Light‐Driven Organic Transformations
Authors: Cheng Yan , Li Yan‐Xiang , Liu Chun‐Hua , Zhu Yuan‐Yuan , Lin Wenbin
Published: August 2023

Porous organic polymers (POPs) have emerged as a novel class of porous materials that are synthesized by the polymerization of various organic monomers with different geometries and topologies. The molecular tunability of organic building blocks allows the incorporation of functional units for photocatalytic organic transformations. Here, we report the synthesis of two POP‐based photocatalysts via homopolymerization of vinyl‐functionalized diaryl dihydrophenazine (DADHP) monomer (POP1) and copolymerization of vinyl‐functionalized DADHP and 2,2′‐bipyridine monomers (POP2). The fluorescence lifetimes of DADHP units in the POPs significantly increased, resulting in enhanced photocatalytic performances over homogeneous controls. POP1 is highly effective in catalysing visible‐light‐driven C−N bond forming cross‐coupling reactions. Upon coordination with Ni2+ ions, POP2‐Ni shows strong synergy between photocatalytic and Ni catalytic cycles due to the confinement effect within the POP framework, leading to high efficiency in energy, electron, and organic radical transfer. POP2‐Ni displays excellent activity in catalysing C−P bond forming reactions between diarylphosphine oxides and aryl iodides. They increased the photocatalytic activities by more than 30‐fold in C−N and C−P cross‐coupling reactions. These POP catalysts were readily recovered via centrifugal separation and reused in six catalytic cycles without loss of activities. Thus, photosensitizer‐based POPs provide a promising platform for heterogeneous photocatalytic organic transformations.
Alternative splicing of chitin deacetylase 2 regulates chitin and fatty acid metabolism in Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri
Authors: Zhang Qin , Xia Tao , Wang Ai‐Yun , Liu Yan , Li Ning‐Yan , Yi Long , Lu Zhan‐Jun , Yu Hai‐Zhong
Published: August 2023

Chitin plays an important role in the development and molting of insects. The key genes involved in chitin metabolism were considered promising targets for pest control. In this study, two splice variants of chitin deacetylase 2 (CDA2) from Diaphorina citri were identified, including DcCDA2a and DcCDA2b. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that DcCDA2a and DcCDA2b encoded 550 and 544 amino acid residues with a signal peptide, respectively. Spatio‐temporal expression patterns analysis showed that DcCDA2a and DcCDA2b were highly expressed in D. citri wing and nymph stages. Moreover, DcCDA2a and DcCDA2b expression levels were induced by 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E). Silencing DcCDA2a by RNA interference (RNAi) significantly disrupted the D. citri molting and increased D. citri mortality and malformation rate, whereas inhibition of DcCDA2b resulted in a semimolting phenotype. Furthermore, silencing DcCDA2a and DcCDA2b significantly suppressed D. citri chitin and fatty acid metabolism. Our results indicated that DcCDA2 might play crucial roles in regulating D. citri chitin and fatty acid metabolism, and it could be used as a potential target for controlling D. citri.
Population‐based prevalence and trend of birth defects in Costa Rica from 2000 to 2019
Authors: Benavides‐Lara Adriana , Barboza‐Argüello María de la Paz
Published: August 2023

Background

We aimed to analyze the prevalence and trend of birth defects (BDs) in Costa Rica, where BDs are the second leading cause of infant and under‐five mortality.

Methods

A descriptive analysis of selected BDs prevalence and trends from 2000 to 2019 was performed, based on data from the Costa Rican Birth Defects Register Center, the national BDs surveillance system with coverage of 98% of live births in the country. We used Joinpoint regression to identify any calendar year where a significant change in trend occurred; the annual percent change (APC) and the average annual percent change (AAPC) were determined. Marginal means and prevalence ratios by subperiod (2000–2009 as referent and 2010–2019) were estimated using Poisson regression, and compared using Wald's chi‐square tests (alpha ≤0.05).

Results

From 2000 to 2019, BDs occurred in 2.3% of live births (95% CI: 2.3–2.4); 73% of which were major BDs. Males presented a significantly higher prevalence (sex ratio 1.13 males/females). The trend showed an AAPC of +3.7 (p < .05) with two joinpoints, 2005 and 2013. A significant APC (+11.3) was observed during 2005–2013, within the context of improvements in the surveillance system, such as the increase in the reporting age, and the incorporation of other data sources in addition to maternity hospitals. Most of the BDs groups presented a significant upward trend. The highest AAPC was observed for the respiratory system (+11.7), congenital heart defects (+9.5), and nervous system (+8.5).

Conclusions

The BDs present a clear upward trend in the last two decades due, among other things, to a significant improvement in the surveillance system.
Accidental poisoning with aconite overdose: A case report and resuscitative emergency management in a tertiary level hospital of Bangladesh
Authors: Majumder Mahabubul Islam , Mahadi Ashrafur Rahaman , Rahman Obayed Ur , Roy Biplob Kumar , Shihab Hossain Mohammad
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Intoxication with aconite, a common over‐the‐counter herbal medicine in Asia, can result in ventricular tachycardia and cardiac arrest and requires heart rate monitoring in a critical care setting and aggressive use of antiarrhythmica. Educational efforts in the appropriate use of alternative medicine may help prevent intoxication.
mRNA vaccine in cancer therapy: Current advance and future outlook
Authors: Li Youhuai , Wang Mina , Peng Xueqiang , Yang Yingying , Chen Qishuang , Liu Jiaxing , She Qing , Tan Jichao , Lou Chuyuan , Liao Zehuan , Li Xuexin
Published: August 2023

Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines are a relatively new class of vaccines that have shown great promise in the immunotherapy of a wide variety of infectious diseases and cancer. In the past 2 years, SARS‐CoV‐2 mRNA vaccines have contributed tremendously against SARS‐CoV2, which has prompted the arrival of the mRNA vaccine research boom, especially in the research of cancer vaccines. Compared with conventional cancer vaccines, mRNA vaccines have significant advantages, including efficient production of protective immune responses, relatively low side effects and lower cost of acquisition. In this review, we elaborated on the development of cancer vaccines and mRNA cancer vaccines, as well as the potential biological mechanisms of mRNA cancer vaccines and the latest progress in various tumour treatments, and discussed the challenges and future directions for the field.
Pregnant women's and policymakers' preferences for the expansion of noninvasive prenatal screening: A discrete choice experiment approach study
Authors: Nguyen Hung Manh , Baradaran Mohammad , Daigle Gaétan , Nshimyumukiza Leon , Guertin Jason Robert , Reinharz Daniel
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims

Quantitative approaches for eliciting preferences for new interventions are mostly conducted by patients and rarely by policymakers. This study aimed to quantify the preferences of pregnant women and policymakers regarding the addition of a new test to prenatal screening programs for detecting chromosomal abnormalities.

Methods

A discrete choice experiment was conducted to measure the respondents' preferences for a new prenatal test. A seven‐attribute instrument was built based on interviews with pregnant women and policymakers. The data were analyzed using robust conditional logistic regression and nested logit models.

Results

In total, 272 pregnant women and 24 policymakers completed the questionnaire (response rates of 48% and 55%, respectively). Overall, all attributes were statistically significant in the pregnant women group, whereas only three attributes (test performance, degree of test result certainty, and cost) were statistically significant in the policymakers group. Statistically significant differences in test performance and information were observed between the two groups.

Conclusion

Policymakers differed from pregnant women in their appraisal of attributes related to their preference for a new prenatal screening intervention. The low response rates observed in both groups suggest that further investigation of the relevance of this approach must be conducted.
The role of cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the antinociceptive and reparative actions of mesenchymal stem cells in rats with peripheral neuropathic pain
Authors: Yerofeyeva Anna‐Maria V. , Pinchuk Sergey V. , Rjabceva Svetlana N. , Molchanova Alla Y.
Published: August 2023

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can produce antinociceptive and reparative effects. Presumably, the MSCs‐induced antinociception may be partly due to the involvement of the endocannabinoid system. The study aimed to evaluate the antinociceptive and reparative effects of adipose‐derived MSCs (ADMSCs) upon pharmacological modulation of cannabinoid CB1 receptor in peripheral tissues or on ADMSCs' membranes in a rat model of peripheral neuropathy. ADMSCs were injected into the area of rat sciatic nerve injury (i) with no additional treatments, (ii) at the tissue CB1 receptor activation by endogenous agonist anandamide (AEA) or blockade with a selective AM251 antagonist; and (iii) preincubated with AEA or AM251. The evaluation of CB1 receptor activity involved analyzing nociceptive responses, gait parameters, and histology. Transplantation of ADMSCs upon activation of CB1 receptors, both on AMSCs' membranes or in the area of nerve injury, accelerated the analgesia and recovery of dynamic gait parameters, abolished static gait disturbances, and promoted the fastest nerve regeneration. Only blockade of CB1 receptors on ADMSCs shortened ADMSCs‐induced analgesia and decreased the number of preserved nerve fibers. CB1 receptors on ADMSCs significantly contribute to their pain‐relieving and tissue‐repairing capabilities by stimulating the growth factors secretion and suppressing the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Peripheral CB1 receptors do not significantly influence ADMSC‐induced antinociception.
Microaneurysm classification system in color fundus images using auto‐weight dilated convolutional network
Authors: Jayachandran A. , Ratheesh Kumar S.
Published: August 2023

Microaneurysms (MAs) are the early indications of diabetic retinopathy (DR), which may result in total visual loss. MAs detection is an exciting work due to its small, darkish color and subtle nature. The automatic detection and categorization of MAs in retinal fundus images using a multi‐scale approach based on Deep Neural Networks and Neighborhood Analysis is proposed in this research article. MAs segmentation, classification, and preprocessing comprise the three steps of the proposed technique. To extract the multi‐scale MA features, the auto‐weight dilated convolutional unit (AD) is specifically used for convolutional feature maps. To fuse convolutional feature maps in encoding layers, the AD unit used a learnable set of parameters. An efficient architecture for feature extraction during the encoding step is incorporated into the AD unit. We integrated the AD unit with the benefits of the U‐Net network for deep and shallow features. Additionally, in order to improve the suggested model and produce the final derivation, we developed a novel optimization approach. After that, neighborhood analysis is performed to name the Micro‐aneurysm because the lesion is actually a collection of independent little images rather than the entire image. The classification accuracy of the proposed method for the three different data sets such as MESSIDOR, online retinal fundus image database for glaucoma analysis (ORIGA), and RIM‐ONE‐R1, is 99.28%, 98.95%, and 98.76% respectively. The results show a good performance of the proposed model against the other analyzed procedure.
Synthesis, design, and antimicrobial activity of pyrido[2,3‐d][1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]pyrimidinones based on quinoline derivatives
Authors: Abu‐Hashem Ameen A. , Yousif Mahmoud N. M. , El‐Gazzar Abdel‐Rhman Barakat Ahmed , Hafez Hend N.
Published: August 2023

The pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidine moieties are one of the most biologically widespread heterocyclic compounds as antimicrobial, antioxidant, antitubercular, antiviral and anti‐inflammatory. Hence, we synthesized an efficient new series of 2‐thioxo‐pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidinone, 2‐hydrazinyl‐(quinolin‐2‐yl)pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidinone,N′‐(quinolin‐2‐yl)‐pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidine‐(formo/aceto)‐hydrazide and substituted‐(quinolin‐2‐yl)pyrido[2,3‐d][1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]pyrimidinone derivatives. The characterization of new compounds was corresponded by using spectroscopic techniques, IR, NMR and Mass spectra. In vitro, all compounds were evaluated as antimicrobial activity compared with cefotaxime sodium and nystatin as the standard drug. This work deals with the exploration of the new heterocyclic compounds and medicinal diversity of quinoline‐pyrido[2,3‐d][1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐a]pyrimidine derivatives that might pave the way for long in the discovery of therapeutic medicine for future drug design.
Socioeconomic Barriers to Care for Pediatric Airways Utilizing Geographic Information Systems
Authors: Fadel Mark A. , McCoy Jennifer L. , Shaffer Amber D. , Kurland Kristen S. , Simons Jeffrey P.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Geographic information systems (GIS) provide a unique set of tools to spatially analyze health care and identify patterns of health outcomes to help optimize delivery. Our goal is to create maps of pediatric tracheostomy patients using GIS to assess socioeconomic and other factors that impact postoperative care after discharge to home.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed on patients (≤21 years old) who underwent tracheostomy at a tertiary care pediatric hospital from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2020. Using GIS, we geocoded patient addresses and conducted spatial analyses of the relationship between patients and access to health care providers as well as vulnerable population factors including poverty, educational attainment, and single‐parent households.

Results

A total of 156 patients were included. Patients initially discharged to transitional care (108/156, 69.2%) had significantly higher likelihood of presenting to the ED regardless of socioeconomic status (OR: 2.28, 95% CI: 1.03–5.05; p = 0.042). There was no relationship between ED visit rate and median household income, poverty level, and percentage of uneducated adults (p = 0.490; p = 0.424; p = 0.752). Median distance to the tertiary care pediatric hospital was significantly longer for patients with no ED visit (median = 61.28 miles; SD = 50.90) compared with those with an ED visit (median = 37.75 miles; SD = 35.92) (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

The application of GIS could provide geo‐localized data to better understand the healthcare barriers to access for children with tracheostomies. This study uniquely integrates medical record data with socioeconomic factors and social determinants of health.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:1919–1925, 2024
Antioxidant peptides, the guardian of life from oxidative stress
Authors: Zhu Yiyun , Wang Kang , Jia Xinyi , Fu Caili , Yu Haining , Wang Yipeng
Published: August 2023

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced during oxidative metabolism in aerobic organisms. Under normal conditions, ROS production and elimination are in a relatively balanced state. However, under internal or external environmental stress, such as high glucose levels or UV radiation, ROS production can increase significantly, leading to oxidative stress. Excess ROS production not only damages biomolecules but is also closely associated with the pathogenesis of many diseases, such as skin photoaging, diabetes, and cancer. Antioxidant peptides (AOPs) are naturally occurring or artificially designed peptides that can reduce the levels of ROS and other pro‐oxidants, thus showing great potential in the treatment of oxidative stress‐related diseases. In this review, we discussed ROS production and its role in inducing oxidative stress‐related diseases in humans. Additionally, we discussed the sources, mechanism of action, and evaluation methods of AOPs and provided directions for future studies on AOPs.
Identification of postpartum symptom subgroups and associated long‐term maternal depressive symptoms and well‐being
Authors: Scroggins Jihye Kim , Reuter‐Rice Karin , Brandon Debra , Yang Qing
Published: August 2023

Many postpartum women experience postpartum symptoms which often occur in clusters (i.e., three or more co‐occurring symptoms that are related to each other). To date, research has focused on individual symptoms, which limits our understanding of how postpartum symptom clusters manifest and influence health. This secondary analysis used the Community and Child Health Network study data (N = 1784). No patient or public directly participated or contributed to the current analysis. Guided by the Symptom Management Theory, latent class analysis was performed to identify subgroups of postpartum women with different symptom experiences using observed variables at 6 months postpartum: anxiety (MINI‐anxiety), general stress (PSS‐10), posttraumatic stress (PCL‐C), postpartum depression (EPDS), sleep disturbance (PSQI‐sleep disturbance), and sleep duration (PSQI‐sleep duration). Bivariate and multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the association between subgroups and (a) individual characteristics and (b) long‐term depressive symptoms (CES‐D‐9) and well‐being at 18 and/or 24 months postpartum. Five subgroups were selected that had better‐fit indices, entropy, and interpretability. Subgroups were labeled as (1) Minimum overall, (2) Mild‐moderate overall, (3) Moderate‐high sleep symptoms, (4) High psychological symptoms, and (5) High overall. After adjusting for covariates, postpartum women in Subgroups 4 and 5 had higher CES‐D‐9 scores at 18 and 24 months and lower well‐being scores at 24 months. More postpartum women in Subgroups 4 and 5 experienced a history of depression or unemployment. Clinicians should provide targeted interventions for postpartum women in high‐symptom subgroups.
Two cases of cystic echinococcosis reported from al‐Andalus cemeteries (southern Iberia): Insights into zoonotic diseases in Islamic Medieval Europe
Authors: López‐Gijón Ramón , Duras Salvatore , Maroto‐Benavides Rosa , Mena‐Sánchez Luis A. , Camarós Edgard , Jiménez‐Brobeil Sylvia
Published: August 2023

The identification of a calcified hydatid cyst in the bioarcheological record is key to the diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis (i.e., hydatid disease), a parasitic infection caused by the tapewormEchinococcus granulosus. This zoonosis can be linked to human–canid interactions, given the reproductive cycle of the parasite (from canids to herbivores/humans as intermediate hosts), and it is commonly associated with agropastoral communities in both the past and present. However, it is not easy to identify a calcified hydatid cyst in the archeological record because of preservation problems and its similarity with other calcifications of biological and geological origin. We report the presence of two fragmented ovoidal calcified formations associated with human remains in different medieval Islamic cemeteries from the Kingdom of Granada in al‐Andalus (Southern Iberia, 13th–15th centuries AD). These formations were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The localization, morphology, and composition of the calcifications indicate that they are hydatid cysts caused byE. granulosus, representing the first evidence of cystic echinococcosis in Islamic Medieval Europe. Our results are in line with archeological and historical records of human–animal interactions and agropastoral practices in al‐Andalus, and they highlight the importance of analyzing calcified masses in the osteoarcheological record.
Identification of dynamic systems assisted by an autoregressive recurrent model
Authors: Bielitz Timo , Bestle Dieter
Published: August 2023

The identification of parameters in dynamic systems usually first requires modeling the system as nonlinear differential equations based on physical principles, which then can be evaluated to search for a set of optimal parameters that enable the mathematical model to reproduce some desired behavior of the real system. To overcome the necessity of complex modeling and to possibly reduce the number of extensive experimental evaluations of the real system or numerical evaluations of the differential equations, strategies from machine learning may be applied. The proposed method uses recurrent architectures such as Long Short‐Term Memory (LSTM) networks as core to predict the system development from initial conditions and parameter values. The trainable weights of the model are optimized based on a set of training data containing parameter values and corresponding solution trajectories generated by evaluation of the system to be investigated. The trained model may then be used to identify unknown system parameter values related to a specific solution trajectory by solving an optimization problem for the inputs of the machine learning model.
Electrical and Thermal Bias‐Driven Negative Magnetoresistance Effect in an Interacting Quantum Dot
Authors: Bo Rui , Tang Yi , Li Can , Zhang Zhengzhong , Liu Hao
Published: August 2023

Spin‐dependent electron transport is theoretically studied for a system with an interacting quantum dot sandwiched between a pair of ferromagnetic electrodes. By separately applying an electrical bias or a temperature gradient across the junction, a spin‐polarized current can be obtained and controlled by tuning the gate voltage. Interestingly, regardless of whether the electron transport is driven by the bias voltage or temperature difference, the current in the device always exhibits negative magnetoresistance under the control of the gate voltage. Such magnetoresistance anomalies in the current profile originate from the spin‐selective tunneling channels in quantum dots, which have been proven experimentally feasible. This device scheme is compatible with current technologies and has potential applications in spintronics or spin caloritronics.
Student reasonings and cognitive biases in climate change predictions
Authors: Clabaugh Howell Kaela , Holt Emily A.
Published: August 2023

Undergraduate biology educators strive to understand how to best teach students the concepts of climate change. The root of this understanding is the establishment of what students know about climate change. This research aims to describe undergraduate biology students’ conceptions of climate change and their argument practices and associated cognitive biases in how they think about the topic. We used qualitative conception interviews to obtain data from 26 American biology undergraduate students who predicted how climate change would affect a forested ecosystem after an average of 1° increase in Fahrenheit (0.5°C change) over 25 years. Through deductive coding, we found the majority of students’ predictions agreed with expert ideas. However, the students used various argument strategies (i.e., Reasoning and Cognitive Biases) in defending their choices, including Ecological Explanations, Observations, Anchoring, and Contrast Effects.
Efficient Immobilization of Acetylcholinesterase onto Amino Functionalized Nitrogen‐doped Reduced Graphene Oxide for Highly Sensitive Pesticides Biosensors
Authors: Li Yanping , Zhao Ruixia , Wang Mimi , Han Gaoyi
Published: August 2023

The residues of carbamates pesticides can cause a threat to human and animal health. Therefore, the exact and speedy detection of pesticides is very urgent. In this work, a novel acetylcholinesterase (AChE) biosensor based on amino functionalized nitrogen‐doped reduced graphene oxide (NrGO−NH2) has been developed for the determination of carbamates pesticides. The NrGO−NH2 can not only serve as electronic bridges and signal amplifiers, but also efficiently immobilize AChE. The detection linear range for carbofuran is ranged from 0.05 to 11 ng/mL, and the detection limit is 0.025 ng/mL. Under the optimum conditions, the developed biosensor has also been successfully used for pesticide residues detecting in vegetable samples.
Effect of Ultrahigh Mg on Carbide Spheroidization and Properties of Alloy Tool Steel
Authors: Li Yang , Yang Hao , Xu Guang , Chen Changyong , Jiang Zhouhua , Xia Ling , Li Wenyu
Published: August 2023

Herein, Mg in L6 steel is increased by pressure smelting raised to a high level (0.046–0.2%), which is difficult to reach under conventional conditions. It is found that Mg can form MgC2 carbide and become the heterogeneous nucleation core of granular pearlite in steel. The precipitation amount and temperature of MgC2 increase greatly with the increase of Mg mass fraction. When the mass fraction of Mg reaches 0.046%, the spheroidizing effect is the best, and the cutting performance is improved. When the mass fraction of Mg is higher than this range, pearlite agglomeration appears, resulting in uneven structure. The effect of pearlite spheroidization induced by MgC2 carbide is still effective in the full annealed state and can significantly reduce the strength and hardness of the full annealed steel. When the mass fraction of Mg is 0.046%, the best performance of the full annealed steel is close to that of spheroidized annealed steel without Mg. The comprehensive properties of full annealed Q–T steel with 0.046% Mg are similar to those of spheroidized Q–T steel without Mg addition.
State‐of‐the‐Art in the Control of Sulfides in Steels
Authors: Gao Xiaoyong , Zhang Lifeng
Published: August 2023

Sulfides like MnS are common phases in resulfurized free‐cutting steels, and are required to be controlled during the hot working process due to its influence on machinability, mechanical, and physical properties of final products. This article extensively reviews published researches on sulfides in resulfurized free‐cutting steels. The formation mechanism and modification of MnS during steelmaking, casting, and heat treatment are discussed based on a number of relevant studies. Measures to control the morphology and number of sulfides are supplied, which are beneficial for the production of resulfurized free‐cutting steels with high quality. Thermodynamic calculation proves to be an effective method to predict and control sulfides.
Persistent spontaneous pneumomediastinum in a dog with pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Amirsultan Sophia , Lynch Alex , Meritet Danielle , Nelson Nathan
Published: August 2023

A 5‐year‐old, 5.8‐kg, neutered, male, mix‐breed dog was presented to the emergency service of a university hospital for assessment of respiratory distress. Thoracic radiographs identified a moderate pneumomediastinum, mild cervical subcutaneous emphysema and moderate bilateral diffuse bronchial and unstructured interstitial pulmonary patterns. The dog had a 6‐week long history of progressive respiratory signs before presentation, culminating in acute respiratory embarrassment in the absence of a precipitating event. Three sets of radiographs were performed before presentation, which demonstrated a persistent pneumomediastinum and progressively severe pulmonary infiltrates. The dog was humanely euthanased after 24 hours of hospitalised care, with a diagnosis of interstitial pulmonary fibrosis made at postmortem examination. Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is usually an acute condition, which resolves within a few weeks of diagnosis and does not recur. Persistent spontaneous pneumomediastinum has been described in people previously, and is a rare potential sequela to severe chronic pulmonary disease in dogs.
Verifying Nuclear Disarmament—Old Challenges, New Options
Authors: Neuneck Götz
Published: August 2023

In recent decades, verification methods, technologies and procedures have been significantly developed further, both technically and procedurally. The competence and expertise of the IAEA and the CTBTO have been considerably improved and national as well as international verification research programmes have been developed. A global verification culture with a lot of knowledge, expertise and experiences has been evolved in some areas. When it comes to the concrete reductions and the credible destruction of nuclear warheads, verification efforts today focus on delivery systems and the number of deployed warheads. Under New START, the USA and Russia are verifying their bilateral obligations until 2026 based on bilateral inspections. Transparency of the current global NWSs arsenal with regard to the exact number of warheads, their operational status, storage and production sites including the fissile material is not existing yet. More R&D is necessary to develop new verification tools. Yet, the international community is not part of the concrete dismantlement of nuclear warheads that are no longer needed or the fissile material released in the process. “Transparency and irreversibility” as well as “safety and security” and non-proliferation standards are key disarmament criteria which have to be applied to future reduction cycles. A dismantling or destruction of a nuclear warhead under the control of foreign inspectors has not yet taken place due to the proliferation concerns under der Non-Proliferation Treaty Art. II and III, which prohibit the disclosure of sensitive information, which would take place if inspectors from NNWS were involved in the dismantlement process and if they have direct insight into the design and composition of the warhead. It is therefore clear that reliable verification of the dismantlement and destruction of a warhead must be a central element of future multilateral nuclear disarmament. The NPT and the TPNW verification demands imply different scenarios, methods and requirements for such options. It is important to understand the existing verification measures and capabilities, so that reduction and elimination proposals cannot be rejected due to their alleged ineffectiveness. Additionally, it is also clear that the vision of ultimately eliminating nuclear weapons worldwide will not be achieved in one big step but in a step-by-step approach and needs specific verification arrangements for multiple scenarios.
Models of Family-School Partnership: Who Is in Power When We Care for the Children We Share?
Authors: Višnjić Jevtić Adrijana
Published: August 2023

In this chapter, three models that try to explain the collaborative relations between parents and ECEC teachers are analysed. McAllister Swap models discuss interactions between parents and professionals based on beliefs, expectations, and involvement strategies. Epstein’s Six Types of Parental Involvement are considered through the prism of involvement as a potentially passive position. It is questioned whether in this model the parents are involved by someone, or they have the option of choosing to participate, or not. Hornby’s model of parental participation is considered in relation to parental strengths and parental contribution. Parents are approached as separate individuals who have the option of choosing (not)participating. Given that both models see parents as part of governing bodies, the chapter provides an account of the involvement/participation of parents as decision-makers in ECEC in different countries.
An inactivating human TRPC6 channel mutation without focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Batool Lilas , Hariharan Krithika , Xu Yao , Kaßmann Mario , Tsvetkov Dmitry , Gohlke Björn-Oliver , Kaden Sylvia , Gossen Manfred , Nürnberg Bernd , Kurtz Andreas , Gollasch Maik
Published: August 2023

Transient receptor potential cation channel-6 (TRPC6) gene mutations cause familial focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), which is inherited as an autosomal dominant disease. In patients with TRPC6-related FSGS, all mutations map to the N- or C-terminal TRPC6 protein domains. Thus far, the majority of TRPC6 mutations are missense resulting in increased or decreased calcium influx; however, the fundamental molecular mechanisms causing cell injury and kidney pathology are unclear. We report a novel heterozygous TRPC6 mutation (V691Kfs*) in a large kindred with no signs of FSGS despite a largely truncated TRPC6 protein. We studied the molecular effects of V691Kfs* TRPC6 mutant using the tridimensional cryo-EM structure of the tetrameric TRPC6 protein. The results indicated that V691 is localized at the pore-forming transmembrane region affecting the ion conduction pathway, and predicted that V691Kfs* causes closure of the ion-conducting pathway leading to channel inactivation. We assessed the impact of V691Kfs* and two previously reported TRPC6 disease mutants (P112Q and G757D) on calcium influx in cells. Our data show that the V691Kfs* fully inactivated the TRCP6 channel-specific calcium influx consistent with a complete loss-of-function phenotype. Furthermore, the V691Kfs* truncation exerted a dominant negative effect on the full-length TRPC6 proteins. In conclusion, the V691Kfs* non-functional truncated TRPC6 is not sufficient to cause FSGS. Our data corroborate recently characterized TRPC6 loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutants suggesting that one defective TRPC6 gene copy is not sufficient to cause FSGS. We underscore the importance of increased rather than reduced calcium influx through TRPC6 for podocyte cell death.