bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consent for interventions during childbirth: A national population‐based study
Authors: Jacques Marianne , Chantry Anne Alice , Evrard Anne , Lelong Nathalie , Le Ray Camille ,   the ENP2021 Study Group
Published: August 2024

Objective

To assess the frequency and determinants of medical interventions during childbirth without women's consent at the population level.

Methods

The nationwide cross‐sectional Enquête Nationale Périnatale 2021 provided a representative sample of women who delivered in metropolitan France with a 2‐month postpartum follow‐up (n = 7394). Rates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of interventions during childbirth (oxytocin administration, episiotomy or emergency cesarean section) without consent were calculated. Associations with maternal, obstetric, and organizational characteristics were assessed using robust variance Poisson regressions, after multiple imputation for missing covariates, and weighted to account for 2‐month attrition.

Results

Women reporting failure to seek consent were 44.7% (CI: 42.6–47.0) for oxytocin administration, 60.2% (CI: 55.4–65.0) for episiotomy, and 36.6% (CI: 33.3–40.0) for emergency cesarean birth. Lack of consent for oxytocin was associated with maternal birth abroad (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] 1.20; 95% CI: 1.06–1.36), low education level, and increased cervical dilation at oxytocin initiation, whereas women with a birth plan reported less frequently lack of consent (aPR 0.79; 95% CI: 0.68–0.92). Delivery assisted by an obstetrician was more often associated with lack of consent for episiotomy (aPR 1.46; 95% CI: 1.11–1.94 for spontaneous delivery and aPR 1.39; 95% CI: 1.13–1.72 for instrumental delivery, reference: spontaneous delivery with a midwife). Cesarean for fetal distress was associated with failure to ask for consent for emergency cesarean delivery (aPR 1.58; 95% CI: 1.28–1.96).

Conclusion

Women frequently reported that perinatal professionals failed to seek consent for interventions during childbirth. Reorganization of care, particularly in emergency contexts, training focusing on adequate communication and promotion of birth plans are necessary to improve women's involvement in decision making during childbirth.
Application of climate change projections in drainage project planning for agricultural infrastructure in Japan
Authors: Takigawa Takuya , Watanabe Yasuhiro , Tsuruda Shinya , Yuasa Kazuhiro , Hotta Naoyuki , Washino Kenji
Published: August 2024

In Japan, agricultural drainage facilities such as pumping stations and drains are designed by calculating an approximately 10–30‐year return period based on observed precipitation in the past. However, damage to farmlands and agricultural facilities caused by heavy rainfall has become more severe and frequent in Japan. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan (MAFF) is urged to develop new design standards in consideration of projected future precipitation, keeping in mind that MAFF needs to avoid building unnecessarily large‐scale facilities. Therefore, more accurate and reasonable projection methods for precipitation are needed. Based on recent advancements and discussions of climate change projections through the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Japanese universities and research institutes are developing datasets for future precipitation projections, especially for assessing weather extremes in small areas. In light of the above, we conducted a case study in a model area to design drainage facilities using the latest climate change outlook. This study introduces how to apply climate change projection in drainage project planning for agricultural infrastructure in Japan and shows the result of future projections in the selected area.
Effects of integrating deficit irrigation and carbonate foliar fertilizers into the system of rice intensification on water productivity
Authors: Aseru Gloria , Tarimo Andrew K. P. R. , Silungwe Festo Richard
Published: August 2024

The use of the system of rice intensification (SRI), deficit irrigation and foliar fertilizer application has proven to be effective in enhancing water productivity (WP) individually. However, information on their combined effects is limited. Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of integrating deficit irrigation and carbonate foliar fertilizer (Lithovit) application into the SRI on WP. This study was conducted under the Mkindo Irrigation Scheme in Mvomero, Morogoro, Tanzania, during the dry and wet seasons (October 2020 to June 2021). The experiment was laid out in a split‐plot design with three levels of irrigation for the main plots, which were 100% of the irrigation water requirement (40 mm) imitating the SRI alternate wetting and drying pattern and induced deficit irrigation applied at 80% and 50% of the irrigation water requirement as IR100, IR80 and IR50, respectively. In addition, there were five subplot fertilizer treatments: (A) diammonium phosphate (DAP) and urea (normal practice); (B) DAP, urea and 100% of the recommended foliar fertilizer (Lithovit standard); (C) DAP, 50% (Lithovit and urea); (D) Lithovit standard only; and (E) no fertilizer. The combined irrigation and fertilizer treatments tested were IR100A, IR100B, IR100C, IR100D, IR100E, IR80A, IR80B, IR80C, IR80D, IR80E, IR50A, IR50B, IR50C, IR50D and IR50E. The highest and lowest WP were 0.851 kg/m3 and 0.562 kg/m3 for IR80B and IR80E, respectively, for the dry season. For the wet season, the highest and lowest WP were 0.540 kg/m3 and 0.306 kg/m3 for IR50B and IR50E, respectively. WP is attributed to the SRI and Lithovit, which act as long‐term reservoirs for carbon dioxide, especially during water stress periods. Thus, integrating deficit irrigation and carbonate foliar fertilizers improves WP in rice cultivation. This study demonstrated that this approach can lead to significant water savings while improving rice yields. This integrated approach can be adapted and optimized based on the specific conditions and requirements of different agroecological contexts.
Intelligent skin‐removal photoacoustic computed tomography for human based on deep learning
Authors: Wang Ning , Chen Tao , Liu Chengbo , Meng Jing
Published: August 2024

Photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) has centimeter‐level imaging ability and can be used to detect the human body. However, strong photoacoustic signals from skin cover deep tissue information, hindering the frontal display and analysis of photoacoustic images of deep regions of interest. Therefore, we propose a 2.5 D deep learning model based on feature pyramid structure and single‐type skin annotation to extract the skin region, and design a mask generation algorithm to remove skin automatically. PACT imaging experiments on the human periphery blood vessel verified the correctness our proposed skin‐removal method. Compared with previous studies, our method exhibits high robustness to the uneven illumination, irregular skin boundary, and reconstruction artifacts in the images, and the reconstruction errors of PACT images decreased by 20% ~ 90% with a 1.65 dB improvement in the signal‐to‐noise ratio at the same time. This study may provide a promising way for high‐definition PACT imaging of deep tissues.
Computational modeling and uncertainty prediction of hyperelastic constitutive responses of damaged brain tissue under different temperature and strain rates
Authors: Meher Ashish Kumar , Srinivas A. Jyotiraditya , Kumar Vikash , Panda Subrata Kumar
Published: August 2024

The effect of strain rate and temperature on the hyperelastic material stress–strain characteristics of the damaged porcine brain tissue is evaluated in this present work. The desired constitutive responses are obtained using the commercially available finite element (FE) tool ABAQUS, utilizing 8‐noded brick elements. The model's accuracy has been verified by comparing the results from the previously published literature. Further, the stress–strain behavior of the brain tissue is evaluated by varying the damages at various strain rates and temperatures (13, 20, 27, and 37°C) under compression test. Additionally, the sensitivity analysis of the model is computed to check the effect of input parameters, that is, the temperature, strain rate, and damages on the material properties (shear modulus). The modeling and discussion sections enumerate the inclusive features and model capabilities.
Glucocorticoid modulates oxidative and thermogenic function of rat brown adipose tissue and human brown adipocytes
Authors: Bolin Anaysa Paola , de Fatima Silva Flaviane , Salgueiro Rafael Barrera , dos Santos Bruna Araújo , Komino Ayumi Cristina Medeiros , Andreotti Sandra , de Sousa Érica , de Castro Érique , Real Caroline Cristiano , de Paula Faria Daniele , Souza Gerson Profeta , Camara Henrique , Sorgi Carlos Arterio , Tseng Yu‐Hua , Lima Fábio Bessa , Rodrigues Alice Cristina
Published: August 2024

Chronic and excessive glucocorticoid (GC) exposure can cause Cushing's syndrome, resulting in fat accumulation in selected body areas. Particularly in the brown adipose tissue (BAT), GC acts negatively, resulting in whitening of the tissue. We hypothesized that dysregulation of microRNAs by GC could be an additional mechanism to explain its negative actions in BAT. Male Wistar rats were divided into two groups: (1) Control sham and (2) GC group that was administered dexamethasone 6.25 mg/200 μL via osmotic pump implantation over 28 days. After this period, the animals were euthanized and BAT tissue was properly stored. Human fat cells treated with dexamethasone were used to translate the experimental results found in animals to human biology. GC‐treated rat BAT presented with large lipid droplets, severely impaired thermogenic activation, and reduced glucose uptake measured by 18F‐FDG PET/CT. GC exposure induced a reduction in the mitochondrial OXPHOS system and oxygen consumption. MicroRNA profiling of BAT revealed five top‐regulated microRNAs and among them miR‐21‐5p was the most significantly upregulated in GC‐treated rats compared to the control group. Although upregulation of miR‐21‐5p in the tissue, differentiated primary brown adipocytes from GC‐treated rats had decreased miR‐21‐5p levels compared to the control group. To translate these results to the clinic, human brown adipocytes were treated with dexamethasone and miR‐21‐5p inhibitor. In human brown cells, inhibition of miR‐21‐5p increased brown adipocyte differentiation and prevented GC‐induced glucose uptake, resulting in a lower glycolysis rate. In conclusion, high‐dose GC therapy significantly impacts brown adipose tissue function, with a notable association between glucose uptake and miR‐21‐5p.
Formic and lactic acids from the conversion of xylose with the use of modified clinoptilolite by sonication
Authors: Sobuś Natalia , Król Magdalena
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

A material of natural origin, clinoptilolite, was modified with selected metals in order to obtain a catalyst for the conversion of xylose – the main component of the hemicellulose fraction present in lignocellulosic biomass – to selected carboxylic acids.

RESULTS

The starting material without modification (0‐parent), the hydrogen form (0‐hydrogen) of zeolite and zeolite after hierarchization with hydrochloric acid (0‐dealuminated) were used. Iron, copper and cobalt ions were introduced as active centers using the sonication technique. The catalytic process was carried out in a pressure autoclave for 2 h at a temperature of 220 °C. Compounds such as formic acid with a yield of 91% (0‐parent) and lactic acid with a yield of 66.1% (Fe‐hydrogen) were obtained.

Conclusion

The catalytic processes carried out using xylose lead to the obtaining of a mixture of carboxylic acids: lactic acid, pyruvic acid and formic acid. An important role here is played by the presence of iron as an active site, which leads to the transformation of xylose into lactic acid by dehydration, and the presence of Lewis and Brønsted active sites. In the case of formic acid, which has never been reported in publications on a similar topic, the starting zeolite without modification contributed to its preparation. It is possible that the content of alkali metals contributed to its preparation along with the coupling of the oxidation reaction of the intermediate product, because of the presence of small amounts of iron, which are present in the natural material. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Removal of Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis from synthetic wastewater using thermally treated palygorskite as a bacterial adsorbent in fixed bed reactors
Authors: Mavrikos Aristodimos , Tekerlekopoulou Athanasia.G , Venieri Danae , Lazaratou Christina.V , Vayenas Dimitris , Papoulis Dimitris
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

In pursuit of innovative wastewater treatment solutions, this study investigates the use of thermally treated palygorskite (TP) as an adsorbent to remove Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis from synthetic wastewater. The goal is to explore a natural alternative to chlorine‐based disinfectants by utilizing TP's antimicrobial properties. Columns were packed with two granulometries (G1: 0.25–0.6 mm; G2: 1.40–2.36 mm) of TP and arranged in three different configurations (CA1, CA2 and CA3) to assess their bacterial removal efficiency, kinetic behavior and potential for reuse after dry heat sterilization.

RESULTS

The CA3 column configuration, with its multilayer arrangement of TP, achieved the highest bacterial removal efficiency, reaching 99.1% for E. coli and 98.1% for E. faecalis. Kinetic experiments revealed that most bacterial adsorption occurred within the first 3 min, with E. coli requiring up to 10 min to reach maximum removal. TP's antibacterial effectiveness remained above 90% after two reuses. Additionally, dry heat sterilization allowed for repeated use of TP, showing stable removal efficiencies for E. faecalis and a slight decline for E. coli with each successive reuse.

CONCLUSIONS

TP demonstrates significant potential as an adsorbent for wastewater disinfection, particularly in the CA3 multilayer configuration. Its rapid adsorption kinetics and resilience to heat sterilization underscore its reusability, making it a viable natural alternative to chemical disinfectants. Further research should focus on scaling this method to real wastewater treatment applications to validate its functionality in real‐world conditions. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Standardizing visual display of gastrointestinal pathology results for improved clinical interpretation
Authors: Huang Jeannie S. , Lindgren Ann , Katibian David J. , Dickerson Andrew , Aceves Seema , Mo Jun , Malicki Denise , Tucker Suzanne M.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Pathology is an essential component of disease diagnosis and management in pediatric gastroenterology. Pathology reports have not been standardized in some areas of pediatric gastrointestinal pathology and pathology reporting varies. Development of electronic medical record (EMR) pathology synoptic report templates (PSRT) enables pathology data collection in a specific format and can help standardize pathology reporting. We developed, implemented, and evaluated EMR PSRTs for eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Methods

PSRTs were developed by a multidisciplinary team of pediatric experts of allergy, gastroenterology, and pathology for both EoE and IBD based on available literature and validated scales. Likert surveys (range 1 low acceptance to 5 high acceptance) based on the Technology Acceptance Model assessed user acceptance of the developed PSRTs. The use of PSRTs was monitored via control charts.

Results

Overall, evaluation questionnaires achieved >80% response rates. Clinicians and pathologists reported moderate‐to‐high levels of Perceived Usefulness (median (interquartile range) for EoE PSRT: clinicians 4.0 (4.0, 5.0) and pathologists 3.5 (3.5, 4.0); and IBD PSRT: clinicians 4.0 (3.0, 4.0) and pathologists 4.0 (4.0, 5.0)) and Perceived Ease of Use (EoE PSRT: clinicians 4.5 (4.0, 5.0) and pathologists 4.0 (4.0, 4.0); and IBD PSRT: clinicians 4.0 (4.0, 5.0) and pathologists 4.0 (4.0, 5.0)) of the developed PSRTs. Control charts demonstrated 100% utilization by 2–5 months from launch.

Conclusions

We demonstrate successful implementation of synoptic reporting for both pediatric EoE and IBD pathology. EMR synoptic reporting provides standardization of pathology reporting and improved methods of pathology data presentation, which could potentially optimize provider efficiency, clinician interpretation of pathology results and disease trajectory, patient care, and clinician satisfaction.
Chaos theory perspective on tourism crisis management: A case study of the COVID‐19 pandemic in South Korea
Authors: Choi Jinyoung Olivia , Hyun Sunghyup Sean
Published: August 2024

The global tourism industry has been significantly affected by the COVID‐19 pandemic, underscoring the importance of innovative crisis management. Traditional crisis management approaches based on the generalized assumption of linearity fail to account for the complex and chaotic nature of tourism crises and systems. Chaos theory, well‐known for its ability to manage unpredictable events and facilitate the emergence of new orders, provides a useful framework for tourism crisis management. Thus, this study aims to investigate the application of chaos theory principles to crisis management during the COVID‐19 pandemic in South Korea. This study provides a synthesis of theoretical perspectives and practical examples with significant implications for tourism crisis management, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, adaptability, and collaboration. Overall, this study contributes to the theoretical discourse on tourism crisis management and provides practical guidance for industry stakeholders to navigate potential future crises effectively.
The moderating role of e‐word of mouth in the relationships between destination source credibility, awareness, attachment, travel motivation, and travel intention: A case study of Vietnamese film tourism
Authors: Luong The‐Bao
Published: August 2024

By adopting stimulus‐organism‐response theory, this study aims to investigate the role of destination source credibility, destination awareness, destination attachment, travel motivation, and e‐word of mouth (e‐WOM) in shaping audiences' travel intentions to visit locations depicted in movies or film series. A quantitative survey is conducted with 523 Vietnamese tourists, collecting their opinions on movie/film destinations. The findings highlight the significant influence of destination source credibility and travel motivation on destination attachment, further impacting travel intention. Additionally, the study reveals the effects of destination awareness, motivation, and attachment on travel intention. Notably, e‐WOM moderates the relationships between destination source credibility, travel intention, and destination attachment and travel intention. The study provides theoretical and practical implications, offering insights and suggestions for future research in the field.
m6A modification of VEGFA mRNA by RBM15/YTHDF2/IGF2BP3 contributes to angiogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Xu Xiaoxin , Wu Shuxiang , Zhang Yi , Fan Weijie , Lin Xinjian , Chen Kunqi , Lin Xu
Published: August 2024

Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) plays a critical role as a potent angiogenesis factor and is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although the expression of VEGFA has been strongly linked to the aggressive nature of HCC, the specific posttranscriptional modifications that might contribute to VEGFA expression and HCC angiogenesis are not yet well understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate the epitranscriptome regulation of VEGFA in HCC. A comprehensive analysis integrating MeRIP‐seq, RNA‐seq, and crosslinking‐immunprecipitation‐seq data revealed that VEGFA was hypermethylated in HCC and identified the potential m6A regulators of VEGFA including a m6A methyltransferase complex component RBM15 and the two readers, YTHDF2 and IGF2BP3. Through rigorous cell and molecular biology experiments, RBM15 was validated as a key component of methyltransferase complex responsible for m6A methylation of VEGFA, which was subsequently recognized and stabilized by IGF2BP3 and YTHDF2, leading to enhanced VEGFA expression and VEGFA‐related functions such as human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVEC) migration and tube formation. In the HCC xenograft model, knockdown of RBM15, IGF2BP3, or YTHDF2 resulted in reduced expression of VEGFA, accompanied by significant inhibition of tumor growth closely associated with VEGFA expression and angiogenesis. Furthermore, our analysis of HCC clinical samples identified positive correlations between the expression levels of VEGFA and the regulators RBM15, IGF2BP3, and YTHDF2. Collectively, these findings offer novel insights into the posttranscriptional modulation of VEGFA and provide potential avenues for alternative approaches to antiangiogenesis therapy targeting VEGFA.
Massachusetts pleased about key ranking in MHA report
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: August 2024

Massachusetts advocates are reveling in the Commonwealth's number one ranking in overall scoring among states based on 15 mental health measures from Mental Health America's (MHA's) 2024 “State of Mental Health in America” report released last week (see related story beginning on page 1).
Utilization of antiobesity medications within the Military Health System
Authors: Neuman Taylor , Corrado Richele , Banaag Amanda , Koehlmoos Tracey Perez
Published: August 2024

Objective

The prevalence of overweight and obesity among beneficiaries of the Military Health System (MHS) is 41.6% and 30.5%, respectively. This incurs significant medical, fiscal, and military readiness costs. It is not currently known how the utilization of antiobesity medications (AOMs) within the MHS compares with that in the Veterans Health Administration or the private sector. Our aim was to assess the utilization of AOMs within the MHS.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted using data gathered from the MHS Data Repository and the inclusion of all adult TRICARE Prime and Plus beneficiaries ages 18 to 64 years who were prescribed at least one TRICARE‐approved AOM during the years 2018 to 2022.

Results

The total study population included 4,414,127 beneficiaries, of whom 1,871,780 were active‐duty service members. The utilization of AOMs among the eligible population was 0.56% (0.44% among active‐duty personnel). Liraglutide was the most‐prescribed AOM (36% of the total). Female sex, age greater than or equal to 30 but less than 60 years, and enlisted or warrant officer rank were all associated with statistically significant higher odds of receiving AOMs.

Conclusions

Comparable with the US private sector, the MHS significantly underutilizes AOMs, including among active‐duty service members, despite coverage of AOMs since 2018.
Magnetism of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles: From Atomic Order to Complexity at the Mesoscopic Scale
Authors: Darcheville Marie , Adenot‐Engelvin Anne‐Lise , Boscher Christophe , Grenèche Jean‐Marc , Lefèvre Christophe , Robert Jérôme , Ersen Ovidiu , Gonzalez Calbet José Maria , Ruiz Gonzalez Maria Luisa , Thiaville André , Sanchez Clément
Published: August 2024

Zn‐substituted iron oxide nanoparticles of ≈5 nm in diameter are synthetized by a microwave‐assisted thermal decomposition method. The addition of ethylene glycol results in a size increase to 22 nm. Cationic disorder has been observed by electron energy loss spectroscopy–scanning transmission electron microscopy. Using Mössbauer spectrometry combined with Rietveld analysis, the complete cationic and vacancies repartition in the lattice is determined, as well as the canting of magnetic moments. This allows the magnetic moment to be calculated, in good agreement with that measured. The alternating current magnetic susceptibility is modeled by the Néel–Brown and the Coffey models, showing some discrepancy between these two approaches which is discussed. The largest particles show a complex morphology involving an oriented attachment mechanism of smaller units. Their cationic disorder and internal porosity have been evidenced and quantified, and the work shows that despite these defects they behave rather as magnetically blocked nanoparticles.
Vaccinium corymbosum–Derived Carbon Dots and Anthocyanin‐Infused Gelatin Multifunctional Films for Smart Packaging Applications
Authors: Wagh Rajesh V. , Ezati Parya , Khan Ajahar , Priyadarshi Ruchir , Rhim Jong‐Whan
Published: August 2024

Consumers and food industry stakeholders have expressed great interest in using simple, non‐destructive and inexpensive methods to control/maintain or monitor the freshness of perishable foods. The idea of smart packaging has been introduced to address these requirements satisfactorily, revolutionizing conventional food packaging. Vaccinium corymbosum (VC)–based carbon dots (CDs) and anthocyanin were matrixed on gelatin (GEL) to fabricate smart packaging film. The VC biowaste–derived carbon dots (VC‐CDs) were characterized using photoluminescence, fluorescence spectrometry, FTIR, antibacterial/antioxidant potential, TEM and XPS analysis. Fabricated films were subjected to physico‐chemical, antioxidant and optical properties, SEM, TGA simulation and in vivo food model system. The VC‐CDs exhibited excellent functional properties like ultraviolet (UV) blocking and antibacterial properties. The reinforcement with 1.5% VC‐CDs and 6% VC anthocyanins (VCA) in the GEL polymer matrix improved UV blocking (> 189%) properties and showed potent antioxidant potential (> 164%) compared to the neat GEL film. In vivo food packaging (minced pork, fish and shrimp) with films has shown that indicator films work efficiently and non‐destructively and monitor real‐time freshness. The GEL/VC‐CDs/VCA‐based active and intelligent films are expected to be applied as multifunctional nanocomposite packaging materials that can indicate quality changes in real time, maintain quality and prolong the shelf life of packaged foods.
Hearts and minds: treating depression in cardiac disease
Authors: Price Lawrence H.
Published: August 2024

Hardly a week goes by that I don't find myself reading about the “mind‐body connection” in a non‐medical publication. The article is typically focused on some common physical disease (diabetes, arthritis, whatever) that, to the reporter's putative amazement, has just been shown to be affected by psychological or psychiatric factors. If you're a regular reader of the Update, I doubt you'll find such reports surprising. Indeed, when I talk with healthcare providers across specialties, I rarely encounter skepticism about this “connection” — a change, to be clear, from my early days in medicine, when “supratentorial” factors were often noted with borderline derision.
In Situ Measurement of the Non‐Orthogonal Angles of Magnetic Field Coils Based on Single‐Beam Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Liu Zhi , Dong Lihong , Qi Zhe , Zhu Hongyang , Zhao Bingquan , Zhao Xiaoming
Published: August 2024

This work proposes a novel method for in situ measurement of the non‐orthogonal angles of magnetic field coils based on single‐beam magnetic resonance. The orthogonality of magnetic field coils is crucial for ensuring the accuracy of atomic magnetometers. The theoretical principles are derived to establish a measurement method for the non‐orthogonal angles. The proposed method requires only one single beam of light to perform in situ measurements of non‐orthogonal angles in the YZ and XZ directions. The experimental results demonstrate that the angle between the Y and Z coils is 89.3001 ± 0.0045°, a value that remains stable despite variations in experimental parameters such as temperature and light power, thereby confirming the robustness of the method. Additionally, the measured gyromagnetic ratio is 6.9963 ± 0.0005 Hz nT−1, which closely matches the theoretical value of 6.9958 Hz nT−1, further validating the method's accuracy. The proposed method provides a more straightforward approach and has significant potential for widespread application across various atomic magnetometers, especially in miniaturized configurations. Furthermore, this method may be extended to the field of atomic gyroscopes.
Asynchronous control of continuous‐time switched systems with all unstable modes under DoS attacks
Authors: Huang Guoxuan , Du Yingxue , Zhang Ancai , Liu Yang , Liu Zhi
Published: August 2024

In this article, the asynchronous control problem of switched linear systems with all unstable modes under denial‐of‐service (DoS) attacks is studied. First, the upper bound of the sampling period, which can be easily calculated based on the scenario where all modes are unstable, is obtained under a periodic sampling control strategy. Second, by constructing an appropriate discrete multiple linear quadratic Lyapunov function, an asynchronous control scheme in the form of linear matrix inequalities is devised. To ensure the stability of switched systems under DoS attacks, a sufficient condition for the total duration and frequency of DoS attacks is established. It is shown that the switched system can tolerate DoS attacks up to a certain limit while maintaining exponential stability, and this result is applicable even when all subsystems are unstable. Finally, numerical examples and a comparative study are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure and firm performance: Moderating role of board gender diversity and sustainability committee
Authors: Alodat Ahmad Yuosef , Hao Yunhong
Published: August 2024

This paper aims to investigate the moderating effect of board gender diversity (BGD) and sustainability committee in the relationship between environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure and the performance of the firm in European countries. This study encompasses an analysis of data obtained from non‐financial firms listed in European markets spanning the years 2013–2022. The findings indicate that ESG disclosure has a pronounced and statistically significant influence on the performance of the firms. Furthermore, BGD plays a positive moderating role in enhancing the relationship between ESG disclosure and ROA. In addition, the sustainability committee showed a moderate positive relationship. The findings have substantial managerial implications for professionals spanning different sectors, such as practitioners, policymakers, senior executives, and corporate leaders. Firms are advised to strategically consider board restructuring to enhance effectiveness in overseeing and advancing ESG practices. Prioritizing ESG efforts is recommended as it enhances overall performance, with investing in gender diversity on boards further strengthening this relationship. Establishing a dedicated sustainability committee can also positively impact firm outcomes, highlighting the importance of proactive ESG integration within corporate strategies. Analyzing the role of BGD as a moderating factor represents a valuable addition to the current body of research. It enhances our comprehension of how ESG disclosure indirectly influences firm performance.
Highly Stable CsPbBr3@MoS2 Nanostructures: Synthesis and Optoelectronic Properties Toward Implementation into Solar Cells
Authors: Goldreich Achiad , Prilusky Jonathan , Prasad Neena , Puravankara Akshay , Yadgarov Lena
Published: August 2024

Halide perovskites (HPs) have gained significant interest in the scientific and technological sectors due to their unique optical, catalytic, and electrical characteristics. However, the HPs are prone to decomposition when exposed to air, oxygen, or heat. The instability of HP materials limits their commercialization, prompting significant efforts to address and overcome these limitations. Transition metal dichalcogenides, such as MoS2, are chemically stable and are suitable for electronic, optical, and catalytic applications. Moreover, it can be used as a protective media or shell for other nanoparticles. In this study, a novel CsPbBr3@MoS2 core–shell nanostructure (CS‐NS) is successfully synthesized by enveloping CsPbBr3 within a MoS2 shell for the first time. Significant stability of CS‐NSs dispersed in polar solvents for extended periods is also demonstrated. Remarkably, the hybrid CS‐NS exhibits an absorption of MoS2 and quenching of the HP's photoluminescence, implying potential charge or energy transfer from HPs to MoS2. Using finite difference time domain simulations, it is found that the CS‐NSs can be utilized to produce efficient solar cells. The addition of a MoS2 shell enhances the performance of CS‐NS‐based solar cells by 220% compared to their CsPbBr3 counterparts. The innovative CS‐NS represents important progress in harnessing HPs for photovoltaic and optoelectronic applications.
Stray Light in 3D Porous Nanostructures of Single‐Crystalline Copper Film
Authors: Seo Yu‐Seong , Ha Teawoo , Yoo Ji Hee , Kim Su Jae , Lee Yousil , Kim Seungje , Kim Young‐Hoon , Cha SeungNam , Kim Young‐Min , Jeong Se‐Young , Hwang Jungseek
Published: August 2024

In the design of optical devices and components, geometric structures and optical properties of materials, such as absorption, refraction, reflection, diffraction, scattering, and trapping, have been utilized. Finding the ideal material with certain optical and geometric characteristics is essential for a customized application. Herein, unoxidizable achromatic copper films (ACFs) are fabricated on Al2O3 substrates utilizing an atomic sputtering epitaxy apparatus. ACFs are made up of two regions vertically: a comparatively flat layer region and a 3D porous nanostructured region on top of the flat region. The measured specular reflectance displays low‐pass filter behavior with a sharp cutoff frequency in the infrared spectrum. Furthermore, the measured diffusive reflectance spectra show light‐trapping behavior in the spectral region above the cutoff frequency, where there are no known absorption mechanisms, such as phonons and interband transitions. A focused ion beam scanning electron microscope is utilized to study the thin film's nanostructured region through 3D tomographic analysis in order to comprehend the phenomena that are observed. This work will shed fresh light on the design and optimization of optical filters and light‐trapping employing porous nanostructured metallic thin films.
Strain in Halide Perovskite Solar Cells: Origins, Impacts, and Regulation
Authors: Guo He , Li Zi Jia , Kim Soo Chan , Han Gill Sang , Jung Hyun Suk
Published: August 2024

Perovskite solar cells have made significant progress in the past decade, demonstrating promising potential for next‐generation solar technology. However, the strain‐induced intrinsic instability of mixed‐halide perovskites poses a significant obstacle to their widespread commercialization. Relaxation of the perovskite lattice strain is a crucial approach for enhancing photovoltaic performance and broadening their application potential. In this study, the authors conduct an analysis of strain progression in perovskite thin films, examining its impact on the physical properties of perovskites and the performance of perovskite solar cells. Furthermore, they explore its influence on device stability from the perspectives of phase transitions, chemical decomposition, and mechanical fragility. Additionally, they provide a summary of key advancements in strain‐relaxation strategies and offer design principles and synthetic approaches to address the issue of lattice strain in perovskites. This paper is intended to lay the groundwork for the theoretical development of effective strain‐relaxation methods, moving beyond sole reliance on empirical optimization.
Scaling Up Perovskite Solar Cell Fabrication: Antisolvent‐Controlled Crystallization of Printed Perovskite Semiconductor
Authors: Li Xuan , Dimitrov Stoichko Dimitrov
Published: August 2024

Scaling up perovskite solar cells stands as one of the frontiers in advancing this rapidly growing technology. Yet, controlling perovskite thin‐film crystallization during and post‐printing differs significantly from lab‐scale processes that have yielded record device efficiencies. This study investigates antisolvent treatment for slot‐die‐coated perovskite solar cells using in situ optical spectroscopy and comparing among multiple antisolvents. The antisolvent bath used in slot‐die coating affects the perovskite crystallization and film quality differently when comparing to the established spin‐coating antisolvent treatment process. A novel dynamic antisolvent method, employing either vortex or laminar flow, is developed. It outperforms steady‐bath techniques in generating high‐quality, haze‐free films. Optimization studies identify critical treatment times. Implementing this novel antisolvent treatment leads to a peak average power conversion efficiency of 15.62% and the highest device efficiency of 18.57%, an excellent performance for slot‐die‐coated MAPbI3 devices printed and tested under ambient conditions. The method is validated for an alternative perovskite composition, FA0.9Cs0.1PbI3, and printing technique, blade coating. This research highlights the importance of in situ analysis for enhancing perovskite film quality and introduces scalable approaches for controlling large‐area film crystallization kinetics, driven by the demand for efficient and scalable manufacturing processes in the field of perovskite solar cells.
Arsenic‐contaminated groundwater of the Western Banat (Pannonian basin): Hydrogeochemical appraisal, pollution source apportionment, and Monte Carlo simulation of source‐specific health risks
Authors: Vesković Jelena , Bulatović Sandra , Ražić Slavica , Lučić Milica , Miletić Andrijana , Nastasović Aleksandra , Onjia Antonije
Published: August 2024

Due to rapid urbanization and industrial growth, groundwater globally is continuously deteriorating, posing significant health risks to humans. This study employed a comprehensive methodology to analyze groundwater in the Western Banat Plain (Serbia). Using Piper and Gibbs plots, hydrogeochemistry was assessed, while the entropy‐weighted water quality index (EWQI) was used to evaluate groundwater quality. Pollution sources were identified using positive matrix factorization (PMF) accompanied by Pearson correlation and hierarchical cluster analysis, while Monte Carlo simulation assessed health risks associated with groundwater consumption. Results showed that groundwater, mainly Ca–Mg–HCO3 type, is mostly suitable for drinking. Geogenic pollution, agricultural activities, and sewage were major pollution sources. Consumption of contaminated groundwater poses serious non‐carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks. Additionally, arsenic from geogenic source was found to be the main health risks contributor, considering its worryingly elevated concentration, ranging up to 364 μg/L. These findings will be valuable for decision‐makers and researchers in managing groundwater vulnerability.

Practitioner Points

Groundwater is severely contaminated with As in the northern part of the study area.

The predominant hydrochemical type of groundwater in the area is Ca–Mg–HCO3.

The PMF method apportioned three groundwater pollution sources.

Monte Carlo identified rock dissolution as the primary health risk contributor.

Health risks and mortality in the study area are positively correlated.
Hydrogeochemical features, genesis, and quality appraisal of confined groundwater in a typical large sedimentary plain
Authors: Zhang Yuqing , Xiao Yong , Yang Hongjie , Wang Liwei , Wang Jie , Hu Wenxu , Wang Ning , Xu Zhongyuan , Liu Gongxi , Chen Feiyu , Guo Xu
Published: August 2024

The confined groundwater of arid sedimentary plains has been disturbed by long‐term anthropogenic extraction, and its hydrochemical quality is required for sustainable development. The present research investigates the hydrochemical characteristics, formation, potential health threats, and quality suitability of the confined groundwater in the central North China Plain. Results show that the confined groundwater has a slightly alkaline nature in the study area, predominantly dominated by fresh‐soft Cl‐Na and HCO3‐Na types. Water chemistry is governed by water–rock interactions, including dissolution of evaporites and cation exchange. Approximately 97% of the sampled confined groundwaters exceed the prescribed standard for F−. It is mainly due to geological factors such as mineral dissolution, cation exchange, and competitive adsorption of HCO3− and may also be released from compacted soils because of groundwater extraction. Enriched F− in the confined groundwater can pose an intermediate and higher non‐carcinogenic risk to more than 90% of the population. It poses the greatest health threat to the population in the north‐eastern part of the study area, especially to infants and children. For sustainable development, the long‐term use of confined groundwater for irrigation in the area should be avoided, and attention should also be paid to the potential soil salinization and infiltration risks. In the study area, 97% of the confined groundwaters are found to be excellent or good quality for domestic purposes based on Entropy‐weighted Water Quality Index. However, the non‐carcinogenic health risk caused by high contents of F− cannot be ignored. Therefore, it is recommended that differential water supplies should be implemented according to the spatial heterogeneity of confined groundwater quality to ensure the scientific and rational use of groundwater resources.

Practitioner Points

The hydrochemistry quality of confined groundwater in an arid sedimentary plain disturbed by long‐term anthropogenic extraction was investigated.

The suitability of confined groundwater for multiple purposes such as irrigation and drinking were evaluated.

The hydrochemical characteristics and formation mechanism of confined groundwater under the influence of multiple factors were revealed.
Harnessing green microbiology for sustainable water management, agriculture, and energy generation: Current advances and future prospects
Authors: Akinsemolu Adenike A. , Onyeaka Helen , Arijeniwa Foluke V.
Published: August 2024

This article presents an in‐depth overview of recent developments and prospects in utilizing green microbiology for sustainable water management. It highlights its vital role across various aspects of water management while underscoring its significance for global development. This article delves deep into microbial processes integral to water management, such as degrading pollutants and using biosensors for quality monitoring of drinking water supplies. Furthermore, the article considers microorganisms' potential roles as biofertilizers and biostimulants in agriculture, their involvement in effluent treatment within microbial communities, and the emerging technologies of microbial fuel cells and nanotechnology. Implementation of microbial‐based approaches presents both challenges and opportunities, including regulatory concerns and public acceptance. Finally, this article reviews key findings and emphasizes research needs related to green microbiology to develop solutions towards cleaner, more sustainable water management solutions in the future.
Designing Maneuver Automata of Motion Primitives for Optimal Cooperative Trajectory Planning
Authors: Pedrosa Matheus V. A. , Scheffe Patrick , Alrifaee Bassam , Flaßkamp Kathrin
Published: August 2024

Trajectory planning techniques form a central step to enable autonomous driving. The motion primitives method generates an automaton of precomputed maneuvers with structure-exploiting properties. Thereby, the trajectory planning problem can be reduced to finding an admissible/optimal sequence of motion primitives. In this chapter, we present ways to designing maneuver automata based on different system models and on either analytical or data-based approaches for automaton generation. Moreover, numerical methods for computing optimal maneuvers are listed and we discuss graph-based planning techniques. A subsequent chapter shows the evaluation of motion primitives automata in the Cyber-Physical Mobility Lab.
Insulin sensitivity, disposition index and insulin clearance in cystic fibrosis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nielsen Bibi U. , Mathiesen Inger H. M. , Krogh-Madsen Rikke , Katzenstein Terese L. , Pressler Tacjana , Shaw James A. M. , Rickels Michael R. , Almdal Thomas P. , Faurholt-Jepsen Daniel , Stefanovski Darko
Published: August 2024

Aims/hypothesis

The aim of this study was to investigate insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity, disposition index and insulin clearance by glucose tolerance status in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, we conducted an extended (ten samples) OGTT in individuals with pancreatic-insufficient CF (PI-CF). Participants were divided into normal glucose tolerance (NGT), early glucose intolerance (EGI), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and CF-related diabetes (CFRD) groups. We used three different oral minimal models to assess insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity and insulin clearance during the OGTT. We evaluated insulin secretion using total secretion (Φ total), first-phase secretion (Φ dynamic) and second-phase secretion (Φ static) from the model, and we estimated the disposition index by multiplying Φ total and insulin sensitivity.

Results

Among 61 participants (NGT 21%, EGI 33%, IGT 16%, CFRD 30%), insulin secretion indices (Φ total, dynamic and static) were significantly lower in the CFRD group compared with the other groups. Insulin sensitivity declined with worsening in glucose tolerance (p value for trend <0.001) and the disposition index declined between NGT and EGI and between IGT and CFRD. Those with CFRD had elevated insulin clearance compared with NGT (p=0.019) and low insulin secretion (Φ total) was also associated with high insulin clearance (p<0.001).

Conclusions/interpretation

In individuals with PI-CF, disposition index declined with incremental impairment in glucose tolerance due to a reduction in both insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity. Moreover in CF, reduced insulin secretion was associated with higher insulin clearance.

Graphical Abstract
Irreducible unipotent numerical monoids
Authors: Can Mahir Bilen , Sakran Naufil
Published: August 2024

In our earlier article (Can and Sakran in Port Math 81(1–2): 21–55, 2024) we initiated a study of the complement-finite submonoids of the group of integer points of a unipotent linear algebraic group. In the present article, we continue to develop tools and techniques for analyzing our monoids. In particular, we initiate a theory of ideals for unipotent numerical monoids.