bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imbrication fabric as a diagnostic feature for the genetic classification of gravels deposited by fluid‐gravity versus sediment‐gravity subaerial flows
Authors: Brenna Andrea , Martini Ivan , Menapace Luca , Surian Nicola , Ventra Dario , Ghinassi Massimiliano
Published: September 2024

Gravel transport in subaerial environments occurs through different flows that are conveniently classified as debris flows, debris floods and water flows based on their distinct morpho‐sedimentary dynamics and different implications for geomorphic hazard. Because distinctive features allowing gravelly sedimentary bodies to be ascribed to related genetic process are still a matter of discussion, this study aims to establish whether imbrication fabric represents a sedimentological fingerprint potentially applicable towards a more robust genetic classification of gravels. We analysed the fabric of 1007 imbricated clasts from modern and ancient deposits. Our results highlight statistically significant differences between imbrication fabrics in gravels deposited by different flows. Particles imbricated by water flows are typified by low imbrication angles (median of 35°) and elongated clasts oriented perpendicular to the flow. In contrast, debris‐flow gravels exhibit high imbrication angles (median of 65°) and elongated clasts oriented parallel to the flow. Debris‐flood deposits display elongated clasts both parallel and transverse to the main flow and intermediate values of imbrication angle (median of 47°). We propose that imbrication angles result from the combination of stability‐driven selection—a process acting under tractional transport and promoting the remobilization of high‐angle imbrication fabrics—and shear‐stress‐driven overriding—a mechanism leading to the formation of the higher imbrication angles—with the first dominating in water flows and the latter being effective in mass transport processes. The progressive change in imbrication fabrics from fluid‐gravity to sediment‐gravity flow deposits offers easily quantifiable sedimentological evidence to help in distinguishing genetic processes that contribute to the accumulation of gravels in alluvial and colluvial settings. Analysis of imbrication fabric can add valuable information, particularly as regards the classification of (1) coarse deposits in stratigraphic records and (2) modern debris flood deposits.
An Innovative Energy Storage System Based on Phase Change Material and Solar Energy Integrated With an Air Handling Unit to Produce Heating and Cooling
Authors: Abdollahi Seyyed Amirreza , Faramarzi Saman , Ranjbar Seyyed Faramarz , Hashemi Kazem , Majidi Hamid , Gholamian Ehsan
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the potential of using phase change material (PCM) in a building using an air handling unit (AHU) assisted by solar energy. To further enhance the system, an energy storage system (ESS) can be considered. Implementing ESS would allow the captured solar energy to be stored efficiently, ensuring a continuous and reliable power source for cooling or heating the air, even during non‐sunlight hours. The air‐conditioned zone is considered to be 220 m2 in which 30 people work for 12 h a day. An energy analysis is conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed system in terms of energy and exergy loss. The genetic algorithm (GA) method is used to optimize the system. The results indicate that the system, including PCM and solar system, can reduce energy consumption by up to 8.9% compared to conventional AHUs in the hottest month of the year (July). The results indicated that employing PCM leads to a decrease of 124 kWh in heat loss during January and 229 kWh in heat gain during July. Taking into account the beneficial impacts of both PCM and the solar system, the yearly assessment demonstrates a 2.69% reduction in power demand, equating to an energy saving of 679 kWh. Furthermore, PCM in the proposed system can be used in integration with AHUs based on renewable energy systems to store renewable energy for buildings.
EEG Functional Connectivity Differences Predict Future Conversion to Dementia in Mild Cognitive Impairment With Lewy Body or Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Hasoon Jahfer , Hamilton Calum A. , Schumacher Julia , Colloby Sean , Donaghy Paul C. , Thomas Alan J. , Taylor John‐Paul
Published: September 2024

Background

Predicting which individuals may convert to dementia from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) remains difficult in clinical practice. Electroencephalography (EEG) is a widely available investigation but there is limited research exploring EEG connectivity differences in patients with MCI who convert to dementia.

Methods

Participants with a diagnosis of MCI due to Alzheimer's disease (MCI‐AD) or Lewy body disease (MCI‐LB) underwent resting state EEG recording. They were followed up annually with a review of the clinical diagnosis (n = 66). Participants with a diagnosis of dementia at year 1 or year 2 follow up were classed as converters (n = 23) and those with a diagnosis of MCI at year 2 were classed as stable (n = 43). We used phase lag index (PLI) to estimate functional connectivity as well as analysing dominant frequency (DF) and relative band power. The Network‐based statistic (NBS) toolbox was used to assess differences in network topology.

Results

The converting group had reduced DF (U = 285.5, p = 0.005) and increased relative pre‐alpha power (U = 702, p = 0.005) consistent with previous findings. PLI showed reduced average beta band synchrony in the converting group (U = 311, p = 0.014) as well as significant differences in alpha and beta network topology. Logistic regression models using regional beta PLI values revealed that right central to right lateral (Sens = 56.5%, Spec = 86.0%, −2LL = 72.48, p = 0.017) and left central to right lateral (Sens = 47.8%, Spec = 81.4%, −2LL = 71.37, p = 0.012) had the best classification accuracy and fit when adjusted for age and MMSE score.

Conclusion

Patients with MCI who convert to dementia have significant differences in EEG frequency, average connectivity and network topology prior to the onset of dementia. The MCI group is clinically heterogeneous and have underlying physiological differences that may be driving the progression of cognitive symptoms. EEG connectivity could be useful to predict which patients with MCI‐AD and MCI‐LB convert to dementia, regardless of the neurodegenerative aetiology.
Fast Multiphoton Microscopic Imaging Joint Image Super‐Resolution for Automated Gleason Grading of Prostate Cancers
Authors: Huang Xinpeng , Wang Qianqiong , He Jia , Ban Chaoran , Zheng Hua , Chen Hong , Zhu Xiaoqin
Published: September 2024

Gleason grading system is dependable for quantifying prostate cancer. This paper introduces a fast multiphoton microscopic imaging method via deep learning for automatic Gleason grading. Due to the contradiction between multiphoton microscopy (MPM) imaging speed and quality, a deep learning architecture (SwinIR) is used for image super‐resolution to address this issue. The quality of low‐resolution image is improved, which increased the acquisition speed from 7.55 s per frame to 0.24 s per frame. A classification network (Swin Transformer) was introduced for automated Gleason grading. The classification accuracy and Macro‐F1 achieved by training on high‐resolution images are respectively 90.9% and 90.9%. For training on super‐resolution images, the classification accuracy and Macro‐F1 are respectively 89.9% and 89.9%. It shows that super‐resolution image can provide a comparable performance to high‐resolution image. Our results suggested that MPM joint image super‐resolution and automatic classification methods hold the potential to be a real‐time clinical diagnostic tool for prostate cancer diagnosis.
Ultrastructural and SEM‐EDX Analysis Characterizations of the Pecten Oculi of the Eurasian Stone‐Curlew (Burhinus oedicnemus): New Insights to Its Migratory Adaptations With Northern Egyptian Coast
Authors: Abumandour Mohamed M. A. , Hanafy Basma G.
Published: September 2024

Our study represents the first attempts to describe the ultrastructure features in addition to SEM‐EDX analysis of the pecten oculi of the nocturnal, visually active Eurasian stone‐curlew. The present study was carried out on 10 normal pecten oculi from the migrant Eurasian stone‐curlew (Burhinus oedicnemus) that was captured from the Northern Egyptian coast, Edku Lake, Edku, Behera, Egypt. The intraocular folded quadrilateral fan black pecten oculi was observed on the posteroinferior wall of the eyeball. The pecten oculi had 18–20 pleats, with narrow spaces in‐between. Our SEM findings showed a tortuous, coiled pecteneal surface due to numerous blood capillaries. The apical part was oriented toward the ciliary body, but the basal part was derived from the retina, just behind the optic nerve. The outer pleat surfaces are covered by the vitreopecteneal limiting membrane, which carries numerous hyalocyte cells on the outer pleat surface. The transverse sections revealed numerous blood capillaries surrounded by numerous melanin granules. Each basal part was surrounded by a thin, elevated ridge. Our SEM‐EDX analysis revealed that carbon is the highest (half percent), oxygen represents about one‐third, and nitrogen is one‐fifth percent of all elements. The lowest elements are sulfate at the apical part and phosphorus in the middle and basal parts. In conclusion, our findings reveal that the number of pecteneal pleats is related to the nocturnal active visual pattern and the lifestyle of this migratory bird.
Effects of Light and Water Agitation on Hatching Processes in False Clownfish Amphiprion ocellaris
Authors: Yamanaka Sakuto , Kawaguchi Mari , Yasumasu Shigeki , Sato Kenji , Kinoshita Masato
Published: September 2024

False clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) employ a hatching strategy regulated by environmental cues, wherein parents provide water flow to encourage embryos to hatch after sunset on the hatching day. Despite previous studies demonstrating the necessity of complete darkness and water agitation for hatching, the regulatory mechanisms underlying these environmental cues remain elusive. This study aimed to investigate how darkness and water agitation affect the secretion of hatching enzymes and the hatching movements of embryos in false clownfish. Assessment of chorion digestion and live imaging of Ca2+ in hatching glands using GCaMP6s, a Ca2+ indicator, revealed that darkness stimulation triggers the secretion of hatching enzymes by increasing Ca2+ levels in hatching gland cells. On the other hand, water agitation primarily stimulated hatching movements in embryos, which led to the rupture of their egg envelopes. These results suggest that changes in light environments following sunset induce embryos to secrete hatching enzymes and that water agitation provided by parents stimulates hatching movements. These responses to environmental cues, light and water agitation, contribute to the rapid and synchronous hatching in false clownfish.
Epidemiological characterization of hand, foot, and mouth disease among hospitalized children from 2014 to 2023 in a hospital in Henan Province: Longitudinal surveillance study
Authors: Li Kang , Chen Shouhang , Li Zhi , Shen Yuanfang , Zhang Yaodong , Wang Fang , Duan Guangcai , Jin Yuefei
Published: September 2024

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is an acute infectious illness primarily caused by enteroviruses. The present study aimed to describe the epidemiological characteristics of hospitalized HFMD patients in a hospital in Henan Province (Zhengzhou, China), and to predict the future epidemiological parameters. In this study, we conducted a retrospective analysis of general demographic and clinical data on hospitalized children who were diagnosed with HFMD from 2014 to 2023. We used wavelet analysis to determine the periodicity of the disease. We also conducted an analysis of the impact of the COVID‐19 epidemic on the detection ratio of severe illness. Additionally, we employed a Seasonal Difference Autoregressive Moving Average (SARIMA) model to forecast characteristics of future newly hospitalized HFMD children. A total of 19 487 HFMD cases were included in the dataset. Among these cases, 1515 (7.8%) were classified as severe. The peak incidence of HFMD typically fell between May and July, exhibiting pronounced seasonality. The emergence of COVID‐19 pandemic changed the ratio of severe illness. In addition, the best‐fitted seasonal ARIMA model was identified as (2,0,2)(1,0,1)12. The incidence of severe cases decreased significantly following the introduction of the vaccine to the market (χ2 = 109.9, p < 0.05). The number of hospitalized HFMD cases in Henan Province exhibited a seasonal and declining trend from 2014 to 2023. Non‐pharmacological interventions implemented during the COVID‐19 pandemic have led to a reduction in the incidence of severe illness.
Future climate change implications in Bhutan from a downscaled and bias‐adjusted CMIP6 multimodel ensemble
Authors: Lehner Fabian , Nadeem Imran , Formayer Herbert
Published: September 2024

We describe the bias adjustment and downscaling to a resolution of 1 × 1 km of daily temperature, precipitation and solar radiation of a multimodel ensemble of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) GCMs with the local observational data set BhutanClim for Bhutan and an analysis of the results for 1996–2100. The GCMs were selected based on their ability to reproduce local temporal and spatial precipitation patterns, resulting in a total of 14 models for each shared socioeconomic pathway (SSP). The results are shown for five global warming levels (GWLs) 1.5, 2, 3, 4 and 5°C, providing insight into the projected impacts of climate change at different warming levels. The daily temperature and precipitation data are publicly available, which is of great benefit for climate impact studies, such as ecological, hydrological or infrastructure‐related studies. In this paper, we discuss showcase climate indicators. Peak‐over‐threshold climate indicators such as hot days above 30°C are relevant for human health. In the capital city of Thimphu, these are currently rare, at 4 days per year, but might increase to more than 80 for GWL5.0. Precipitation increases in the summer months, but slightly decreases in the drier winter months. Accordingly, the 3‐month SPEI drought index is projected to increase in summer, but strongly decreases in the winter months, mostly pronounced in February. The increasing severity of late‐winter and spring droughts might have a negative impact on vegetation, wildfires and water supply.
Increased enteral lipid supplementation is not associated with weight gain in extremely preterm infants with sufficient energy intakes
Authors: Alm Stina , Lundström Josefin , Sjöström Elisabeth S. , Domellöf Magnus
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Practices for fortifying human milk vary among neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). It is unclear whether enteral energy intake above 140 kcal/kg/day with increased fat supplementation leads to greater weight gain in breastmilk‐fed extremely preterm (EPT) infants.

Methods

Anthropometric and nutritional data were collected from clinical records for Swedish EPT infants born between gestational weeks 26 + 0 and 27 + 6. Included infants were treated at NICU A (n = 17) or NICU B (n = 39). The primary outcome was change in standard deviation (SD) scores (ΔSDS) for weight between postmenstrual weeks 29 + 0 and 34 + 0.

Results

At birth, the mean gestational age was 26.9 (±0.45 SD) weeks and the mean birthweight was 969 (±107 SD) g. Between postmenstrual weeks 29 + 0 and 33 + 6, the energy intake was significantly higher at NICU B: mean (SD) 149 (±14.9) versus 132 (±11.2) kcal/kg/day, p ≤ 0.001. This was driven by a higher fat intake at NICU B: mean (SD) 7.97 (±1.05) versus 6.20 (±0.92) g/kg/day, p ≤ 0.001, which in turn was explained by more liberal use of lipid supplements at NICU B. No significant differences were found in ΔSDS for weight, length or head circumference between the two NICUs.

Conclusions

Despite considerable differences in energy intake due to the use of enteral lipid supplements, our study showed no differences in ΔSDS for weight, length or head circumference. This may be due to limited fat absorption in infants already receiving adequate energy and fat, and poor absorption of fat from human donor milk.
Determinants of crop diversification and its impact on farmers' income: A case study in Rangpur District, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md Sayemul , Jahan Hasneen , Ema Nishat Sultana , Ahmed Md. Rubel
Published: September 2024

Background

In the face of rising global food demand, climate change, and economic uncertainties, crop diversification has emerged as a crucial tool for achieving both economic and environmental sustainability. In Bangladesh, where the economy heavily relies on agriculture, crop diversification can play a vital role in enhancing farmers' livelihoods and domestic food production.

Results

This study focuses on Rangpur district, an agricultural hub in Bangladesh, analyzing data from 122 farmers to assess the status, determinants, and effects of crop diversification. The Simpson Diversification Index (SDI) analysis revealed that 29% and 68% of the farmers exhibit very high and high degrees of crop diversification, respectively. The Tobit model identified significant drivers of crop diversification, including education, household size, farming experience, non‐farm income, mobile phone information access, experience with climatic shocks, and land type. Additionally, the Log‐Linear model indicated that each unit increase in the SDI score corresponds to a 2.41% increase in farmers' income.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that crop diversification is a key strategy for enhancing economic sustainability and increasing income among farmers in Bangladesh. By improving both economic outcomes and resilience, crop diversification supports sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
Development of an alternative method to quantify H2S: application in wine fermentation
Authors: Paredes María José , Benavides‐Valenzuela Sergio
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

A colorimetric method for the quantification of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) produced in microbial fermentations was developed using lead gelled alginate microparticles packed in glass columns. The formation of a lead sulfide complex, between H₂S and lead ion (Pb2+) immobilized on the microparticles, allowed simple and accurate quantification by colorimetry.

RESULTS

The microparticle‐loaded columns were calibrated and showed significant analytical sensitivity. The calibration curve of the system showed a correlation coefficient (r2) of 0.995 and a detection limit of 1.29 ± 0.02 μg L−1. The application of the columns in laboratory wine fermentations was able to detect variations in H2S production from 10.6 to 23.5 μg L−1 by increasing the sugar content in the medium, and from 10.6 to 3.2 μg L−1 with decreasing nitrogen content in the medium.

CONCLUSION

Validation of the proposed method was carried out by determining H₂S in a vinic fermentation model, the results of which were compared with those obtained using a reference chemical method. The data obtained showed no statistically significant differences between the two methods, confirming the reliability and accuracy of the developed system. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparative Histopathologic Analysis of Inner Ear Damage in Meningitis: Otogenic Versus Meningogenic Routes
Authors: Schuster Artur K. , Yilmaz Nevra K. , Shimura Tomotaka , Cureoglu Sebahattin , da Costa Monsanto Rafael , Lavinsky Joel
Published: September 2024

Objective

To distinguish the patterns of inner ear changes between meningogenic and otogenic routes in meningitis cases. Our hypothesis is that pinpointing distinct patterns linked to each route could aid in the development of diagnostic strategies and targeted therapies.

Methods

Temporal bones (TBs) from patients with a history of meningitis and histopathological evidence of labyrinthitis were divided into two groups (otogenic and meningogenic). Inner ear histopathological examination was performed to identify qualitative and semi‐quantitative changes. This assessment encompassed inflammation patterns, indications of early ossification, hair cell loss, and alterations in the lateral wall, round window membrane, cochlear aqueduct and vestibular aqueduct.

Results

Thirty‐six TBs were included in the study (otogenic, 21; meningogenic, 15). Generalized labyrinthitis was more common in otogenic cases (100% vs. 53%, p < 0.001). Early signs of cochlear ossification were exclusively observed in otogenic cases (9 TBs). The spiral ligament of otogenic cases has shown a uniform loss of fibrocytes across all cochlear turns, while meningogenic cases showed more severe loss in the apical turn. Otogenic cases exhibited a higher prevalence of severe inflammation of the cochlear aqueduct and endolymphatic sac. Meningogenic cases showed more severe loss of vestibular hair cells in the otolithic organs.

Conclusion

Otogenic cases displayed a higher prevalence of changes in the spiral ligament and signs of early ossification, whereas meningogenic cases were associated with a higher degree of vestibular damage. Our findings emphasize the importance of considering the infection route and its implications for timely diagnosis and development of pathology‐oriented treatment strategies.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 135:864–872, 2025
Metabolic Responses to Excess Manganese in Legumes: Variations in Nitrogen Compounds in Canavalia ensiformis (L.) DC and Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp
Authors: Mendes Thalita Fischer Santini , Ferreira Tassia Caroline , Bomfim Nayane Cristina Pires , Aguilar Jailson Vieira , de Camargos Liliane Santos
Published: September 2024

Manganese (Mn) is crucial as a trace element for plant metabolism, but high concentrations in soil can induce symptoms of toxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the metabolism of nitrogen compounds and biomass production in Canavalia ensiformis and Cajanus cajan, clarifying the effects of this metal on nitrogen metabolism. The soil was treated with Mn concentrations of 80, 100, 120, 140, and 160 mg kg−1. Differential responses were observed in the metabolism of nitrogenous compounds between species. C. cajan affected nitrogen metabolism in shoots, roots, and nodules, with significant variations in amino acids, total soluble proteins, ureides, and root biomass concentration. In contrast, C. ensiformis showed stability in the concentrations of compounds, mainly ureides, and proteins, even with increasing doses of Mn in the soil. These findings highlight the importance of nitrogen metabolism in legumes studied as a key aspect for understanding their Mn tolerance mechanisms in soil.
Performance evaluation of a 4D similarity filter for dynamic CT angiography imaging of the liver
Authors: Tunissen Sjoerd A. M. , Smit Ewoud J. , Mikerov Mikhail , Prokop Mathias , Sechopoulos Ioannis
Published: September 2024

Background

Dynamic computed tomography (CT) angiography of the abdomen provides perfusion information and characteristics of the tissues present in the abdomen. This information could potentially help characterize liver metastases. However, radiation dose has to be relatively low for the patient, causing the images to have very high noise content. Denoising methods are needed to increase image quality.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the performance, limitations, and behavior of a new 4D filtering method, called the 4D Similarity Filter (4DSF), to reduce image noise in temporal CT data.

Methods

The 4DSF averages voxels with similar time‐intensity curves (TICs). Each phase is filtered individually using the information of all phases except for the one being filtered. This approach minimizes the bias toward the noise initially present in this phase. Since the 4DSF does not base similarity on spatial proximity, loss of spatial resolution is avoided. The 4DSF was evaluated on a 12‐phase liver dynamic CT angiography acquisition of 52 digital anthropomorphic phantoms, each containing one hypervascular 1 cm lesion with a small necrotic core. The metrics used for evaluation were noise reduction, lesion contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), CT number accuracy using peak‐time and peak‐intensity of the TICs, and resolution loss. The results were compared to those obtained by the time‐intensity profile similarity (TIPS) filter, which uses the whole TIC for determining similarity, and the combination 4DSF followed by TIPS filter (4DSF + TIPS).

Results

The 4DSF alone resulted in a median noise reduction by a factor of 6.8, which is lower than that obtained by the TIPS filter at 8.1, and 4DSF + TIPS at 12.2. The 4DSF increased the median CNR from 0. 44 to 1.85, which is less than the TIPS filter at 2.59 and 4DSF + TIPS at 3.12. However, the peak‐intensity accuracy in the TICs was superior for the 4DSF, with a median intensity decrease of −34 HU compared to −88 and −50 HU for the hepatic artery when using the TIPS filter and 4DSF + TIPS, respectively. The median peak‐time accuracy was inferior for the 4DSF filter and 4DSF + TIPS, with a time shift of −1 phases for the portal vein TIC compared to no shift in time when using the TIPS. The analysis of the full‐width‐at‐half‐maximum (FWHM) of a small artery showed significantly less spatial resolution loss for the 4DSF at 3.2 pixels, compared to the TIPS filter at 4.3 pixels, and 3.4 pixels for the 4DSF + TIPS.

Conclusion

The 4DSF can reduce noise with almost no resolution loss, making the filter very suitable for denoising 4D CT data for detection tasks, even in very low dose, i.e., very high noise level, situations. In combination with the TIPS filter, the noise reduction can be increased even further.
From Hands to Words—Physiotherapists Experience of Delivering Online Exercise and Education for Individuals With Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Bødtger Daniel , Simonÿ Charlotte , Tang Lars H. , Skou Søren T. , Holm Pætur M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Little is known about delivering telehealth from a healthcare provider’s perspective.

Purpose

To investigate physiotherapists’ (PTs) experiences in delivering live online exercise and education for people with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

This was a qualitative individual interview study with a thematic analysis approach. The interviewees were six PTs delivering 8 weeks of supervised online exercise and education for people with knee OA in secondary public care in Denmark.

Results

The three main themes were (1) From hands to words—on the transition from on‐site to on‐line physiotherapy, (2) Online selection—on the perceived barriers to managing a telehealth service and (3) Therapeutic relation under pressure—on the contextual difficulties in building relationships and alliances in online classes.

Conclusion

The PTs in this study seemed to gradually come to terms with delivering first‐line OA care online, appreciating advantages and new possibilities. PTs’ initial apprehension towards this new form of physiotherapy service may be rooted in the traditional conception of physiotherapy as a predominantly manual profession but also in a lack of formal training in physiotherapy telehealth services. This study underlines the growing need for better and more formalised training in physiotherapy telehealth services to meet growing demands.
The effect of aging on the mechanical properties of bulk molding compound with different fiber lengths
Authors: Hsieh Tsung‐Han , Chang Ting‐Yu , Chen Chih‐Chia , Tsai Shang‐Nan
Published: September 2024

Bulk molding compound (BMC) manufactured using fiber reinforced polymers (FRPs) has attracted extensive attention and is widely used because of its capability to fabricate structures with complex shapes. This study investigated the effects of aging on the mechanical properties of BMC composites made using an epoxy matrix and discontinuous carbon fibers of varying lengths. Tensile, compressive, and flexural tests were conducted. The results showed that longer fibers did not necessarily increase the moduli and strengths of BMC composites due to stress concentrations resulting from the curling and entanglement of the longer fibers. When aged, BMC composites using shorter carbon fibers exhibited more significant reductions in moduli and strengths due to higher void contents, resulting in more severe matrix epoxy degradation. When comparing epoxy and BMC, BMC experienced greater reductions in moduli and strengths even though carbon fiber, a type of artificial fiber, should be less affected by aging. This is because aging not only degraded the matrix epoxy but also affected the adhesion between the fibers and the matrix, leading to a larger displacement of the fibers, resulting in a more severe reduction in the mechanical properties of the BMC composites.

Highlights

BMC composites were manufactured using epoxy and discontinuous carbon fibers.

Longer fibers did not necessarily increase strengths due to entanglement.

BMC using shorter fibers had more voids and hence degraded more severely.

BMC showed greater strength reductions than epoxy due to matrix degradation.

Degradation of matrix epoxy affected the adhesion between fibers and matrix.
3D‐printed graphene‐reinforced composites: Opportunities and challenges
Authors: Banupriya R. , Jeevan T. P. , Divya H. V. , Yashas Gowda T. G. , Manjunath G. A.
Published: September 2024

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is an innovative technology that allows for the construction of complex, three‐dimensional structures layer by layer using digital plans. This technology has transformed industries including as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer items by allowing for rapid prototyping, customization, and the manufacture of complex geometries. Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms organized in a hexagonal lattice, is well‐known for its superior electrical and thermal conductivity, as well as its great tensile strength. When graphene is mixed with composite materials, it greatly improves their mechanical and functional properties, resulting in composites with higher strength, conductivity, lower weight, and greater durability. The combination of 3D printing and graphene‐reinforced composites creates new opportunities for the production of high‐performance, application‐specific structures. This review identifies key advancements in the synthesis, processing, and application of these composites, while also addressing critical challenges such as material dispersion, scalability, and the impact of graphene on the 3D printing process itself. A significant conclusion of this review is the recognition that overcoming these challenges is not only feasible but essential for harnessing the full potential of 3D‐printed graphene‐reinforced composites across diverse industrial sectors. The unique contribution of this work lies in providing a comprehensive roadmap for future research, guiding efforts to bridge current gaps and drive innovation in this emerging field.
Family Caregivers of Cancer Patients: Burdens and Support Preferences of Partner, Parent and Adult‐Child Caregivers
Authors: Breuning Martina , Mählmann Sophia , Kerek‐Bodden Hedy , Oettlin Susanne , Weis Joachim
Published: September 2024

Objective

The aim of this study is to (1) identify similarities and differences in psychosocial burdens and support needs experienced by parent, partner and adult‐child caregivers and (2) identify support needs of family caregivers regarding peer support programs.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews (n = 30) were conducted with family caregivers of cancer patients. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed by inductive content analysis to identify themes.

Results

Ten categories of burden were identified for all three groups of caregivers. Partners emphasized the time burden through caregiving, parents and adult‐child caregivers accentuated the emotional burden. All caregivers wished for peer‐to‐peer exchange which will provide the feeling not to be alone, to share emotions and to prepare for what will come next. Preferences for matching with peers with similar prognosis for their sick relative and similar living conditions were found.

Conclusions

Partner, parent and adult‐child caregivers describe similar burdens of caregiving. They wish for peer support programs that allow them to share their experiences with persons who understand their situation. Therefore, caregivers desire a good match with peers to enhance the positive outcome of peer exchange.
5,7,3′,4′,5′‐Pentamethoxyflavone, a Flavonoid Monomer Extracted From Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack, Alleviates Anxiety Through the A2AR/Gephyrin/GABRA2 Pathway
Authors: Ma Wenli , Sui Dayun , Sun Weilun , Yu Ping , Li Yuangeng , Guo Meiqi , Wang Huifeng , Zhang Xiaoze , Yu Xiaofeng , Fu Wenwen , Xu Huali
Published: September 2024

The sedative and hypnotic properties of 5,7,3′,4′,5′‐pentamethoxyflavone (PMF), a monomer extracted from the leaves of Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack, have been reported. However, the role of PMFs in the development of anxiety remains uncertain. An anxiety model was developed using chronic unpredictable mild stimulation (CUMS). Kunming mice were randomly allocated to the following groups: control, CUMS, PMF (50 mg/kg), PMF (100 mg/kg), and diazepam (3 mg/kg). The anxiolytic effects of PMFs were evaluated using elevated plus maze (EPM) test and open field test (OFT). Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits were used to analyze the serum levels of corticosterone (CORT), 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT), gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in the hippocampus. High‐throughput‐16S rRNA sequencing was performed to investigate its effect on the composition of the gut microbiota. Subsequently, western blotting was performed to assess the expression of GABAergic synaptic‐associated proteins. PMF effectively mitigated CUMS‐induced anxiety‐like behavior. Further examination revealed that PMF treatment ameliorated dysfunction of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and increased 5‐HT and GABA levels in the hippocampus. Notably, the ability of PMF to maintain the stability of GABAergic synapses by enhancing the species composition of the gut microbiota and acting on the adenosine a2a receptor (A2AR)/gephyrin/gamma‐aminobutyric acid A receptor alpha 2 (GABRA2) pathway revealed a previously unrecognized mechanism for the anxiolytic effect of PMF. These findings suggest that PMF enhances the expression of A2AR, preserves GABAergic synaptic stability, and reduces anxiety by modulating the microbiota composition. Thus, it holds promise as an anxiolytic agent.
Sex‐related differences in pulmonary vascular volume distribution
Authors: Wright Stephen P. , Kirby Miranda , Singh Gaurav V. , Tan Wan C. , Bourbeau Jean , Eves Neil D. ,   for the CanCOLD Collaborative Research Group
Published: September 2024

Pulmonary arterial hypertension affects females more frequently than males, and there are known sex‐related differences in the lungs. However, normal sex‐related differences in pulmonary vascular structure remain incompletely described. We aimed to contrast computed tomography‐derived pulmonary vascular volume and its distribution within the lungs of healthy adult females and males. From the CanCOLD Study, we retrospectively identified healthy never‐smokers. We analyzed full‐inspiration computed tomography images, using vessel and airway segmentation to generate pulmonary vessel volume, vessel counts, and airway counts. Vessels were classified by cross‐sectional area >10, 5–10, and <5 mm2 into bins, with volume summed within each area bin and in total. We included 46 females and 36 males (62 ± 9 years old). Females had lower total lung volume, total airway counts, total vessel counts, and total vessel volume (117 ± 31 vs. 164 ± 28 mL) versus males (all p < 0.001). Females also had lower vessel volume >10 mm2 (14 ± 8 vs. 27 ± 9 mL), vessel volume 5–10 mm2 (35 ± 11 vs. 55 ± 10 mL), and vessel volume <5 mm2 (68 ± 18 vs. 82 ± 19 mL) (all p < 0.001). Normalized to total vessel volume, vessel volume >10 mm2 (11 ± 4 vs. 16 ± 4%, p < 0.001) and 5–10 mm2 (30 ± 6 vs. 34 ± 5%, p = 0.001) remained lower in females but vessel volume <5 mm2 relative to total volume was 18% higher (59 ± 8 vs. 50 ± 7%, p < 0.001). Among healthy older adults, pulmonary vessel volume is distributed into smaller vessels in females versus males.
Teleconnection and the Antarctic response to the Indian Ocean Dipole in CMIP5 and CMIP6 models
Authors: Sen Arnab , Deb Pranab , Matthews Adrian J. , Joshi Manoj M.
Published: September 2024

Tropical–Antarctic teleconnections are known to have large impacts on Antarctic climate variability at multiple timescales. Anomalous tropical convection triggers upper‐level quasi‐stationary Rossby waves, which propagate to high southern latitudes and impact the local environment. Here the teleconnection between the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and Antarctica was examined using daily gridded reanalysis data and the linear response theory method (LRTM) during September–November of 1980–2015. The individual contribution of the IOD over the Antarctic climate is challenging to quantify, as positive IOD events often co‐occur with El Niño events. However, using the LRTM, the extratropical response due to a positive IOD was successfully extracted from the combined signal in the composite map of anomalous 250‐hPa geopotential height. Applying the method to a set of models from phases 5 and 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5 and CMIP6), significant differences were observed in the extratropical response to the IOD among the models, due to bias in the Rossby waveguide and IOD precipitation pattern. The LRTM was then applied to evaluate the extratropical response of the 850‐hPa temperature, wind anomalies, and sea‐ice concentration anomalies in observation data, as well as models that represented both the IOD precipitation and the extratropical waveguide adequately. The IOD induced cold southerly flow over the west of the Ross Sea, Weddell Sea, and Antarctic Peninsula, causing cold surface‐temperature anomalies and the increase of sea ice, and warm northerly flow over the east of the Ross Sea and Amundsen Sea, causing warm surface‐temperature anomalies and the decrease of sea ice. We recommend the LRTM as a complementary method to standard analysis of climate variability from observations and global climate models.
Complete resolution across the neodymium/samarium isotopic envelope with a liquid sampling‐atmospheric pressure glow discharge — Orbitrap mass spectrometer
Authors: Goodwin Joseph V. , Shrestha Suraj , Manard Benjamin T. , Marcus R. Kenneth
Published: September 2024

Rationale

Nd and Sm isotope ratios play an important role in geological dating and as nuclear forensic signatures; however, the overlap of the respective 144, 148, 150 Nd/Sm isobars requires prior separations to be performed before analysis on typical MS platforms. The work presented here overcomes these isobaric interferences using ultrahigh‐mass resolution to alleviate interference without prior chemical separations.

Methods

A liquid sampling‐atmospheric pressure glow discharge ion source was coupled to a standard, QExactive Focus Orbitrap mass spectrometer, providing a mass resolution of ~80 k. A Spectroswiss FTMS booster X2 data acquisition package was used to collect extended transients, providing much higher mass resolution; ~230 k and ~600 k are employed here for Nd and Sm isotopes.

Results

While the standard Orbitrap resolution is far greater than typical “atomic” MS platforms, it was insufficient to alleviate all isobars. The use of a resolution of ~230 k resulted in baseline separation across the entire isotopic envelope for both Nd and Sm. Isotope ratios obtained from Nd:Sm mixtures using high‐resolution were equivalent to those found for individual‐element solutions, while isotope ratios obtained at a resolution of ~80 k (standard for the OEM data system) showed large deviations.

Conclusions

Use of ultrahigh‐resolution is an attractive alternative to extensive chemical separations to alleviate severe isobaric interferences. Sufficient mass resolution greatly reduces/eliminates the need for sample manipulations (separations) before analysis while reducing costs and total analysis times.
Subglottic adenoid cystic carcinoma associated with pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Siddiqui Atif Saleem
Published: September 2024

Key message

Pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis can be associated with subglottic adenoid cystic carcinoma.
Distributed‐filter‐based double event‐triggered formation control for stochastic nonlinear MASs under switching topologies
Authors: Peng Yonghua , Lin Guohuai , Ren Hongru , Li Hongyi
Published: September 2024

This article investigates a formation control method for stochastic nonlinear multi‐agent systems (MASs) under switching topologies. To reduce the communication bandwidth occupancy, two event‐triggered mechanisms of sensor‐to‐controller and controller‐to‐actuator network channels are proposed. Taking advantage of the neural networks approximation capability, a dynamic high‐gain observer is introduced to estimate unmeasured states and tackle the non‐differentiable issue of triggered output signal. Furthermore, it should be noted that a distributed filter is employed to handle the discontinuous local reference signal resulting from switching topologies. By using discontinuous topology information, the distributed filter generates a differentiable signal to design a virtual controller. Concomitantly, a first‐order filter is implemented to avoid the problem of “explosion of complexity.” Through stability analysis, it is proven that the designed formation controller achieves boundedness in probability for all signals in the stochastic nonlinear MASs. Ultimately, a simulation is performed to confirm the viability of the control approach.
Study on Preparation of Porous Light Refractory from Waste Electric Porcelain
Authors: Liu Yifeng , Xu Yanheng , Zhou Ruxian , Wei Haichao , Zhang Wuri , Zhan Huasheng , Ma Shulong , Yang Chen , Huang Zhaohui
Published: September 2024

In the process of the development of the ceramic industry, a large amount of ceramic solid waste is generated, and how to make high‐value reuse of ceramic solid waste has also become a problem of common concern. In this article, a new method of making porous thermal insulation materials reusing waste electric porcelain was successfully developed. In this work, a porous light refractory with bulk density of 0.99 g/cm3 and apparent porosity of 59% was prepared by the novel method. Which room temperature flexural and compressive strengths are 11.52 MPa and 1.84 MPa, respectively. These properties makes the waste electric porcelain‐based porous light refractory can be applicated as lightweight heat insulation materials for high‐temperature kilns, high‐temperature catalyst carriers, high‐temperature phase‐change heat storage support materials, etc., which will create higher application value and research significance.
In‐Vitro Antimicrobial, Antidiabetic and Anticancer Activities of Calyptocarpus Vialis Extract and its Integration with Computational Studies
Authors: Bachhar Vishwajeet , Joshi Vibha , Shekher Mishra Shashank , Shukla Ravi K. , Bhargava Samir , Duseja Manisha
Published: September 2024

Calyptocarpus vialis (C. vialis), a plant of Asteraceae family exhibits nutritional value, antioxidant properties and has potential for various other biomedical applications. The present study is focused to assess the antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anticancer potential of C. vialis extract and its integration with computational studies. The antimicrobial activity is performed against the Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae), Candida albicans (C. albicans) fungi using disc diffusion method. Maximum Zone of Inhibition (ZOI) of 37±3.2 and 35±2.9 mm is obtained for S. aureus and B. subtilis respectively, whereas ZOI of 39±2.8 mm is obtained against C. albicans at dose of 500 μg/mL. The extract shows strong α‐amylase inhibition activity with IC50 ~46.8±0.81 μg/mL inferring about its antidiabetic potential. Anticancer activity of C. vialis extract is checked against HCT‐116 and DU‐145 cell lines using 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium‐bromide (MTT) assay, which shows excellent anticancer activity with IC50 value of 38.09±0.65 μg/ml and 36.34±1.05 μg/ml respectively. The obtained results are further verified using computational studies considering interaction among phytochemicals and selected targets. Extract is found potent for biological activities and promising candidate for development of new drugs.
Biogenic Silver and Zinc Enhanced MWCNTs: Nano‐Decoration, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Effect
Authors: Ünal İlkay
Published: September 2024

In this study, acid‐treated multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were decorated with silver (Ag), zinc (Zn), and Ag@Zn nanoparticles (NPs) synthesized using plant extract for reducing and stabilizing NPs. The nanocomposites were characterized by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)‐energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Raman spectroscopy, and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The stability of functionalized MWCNTs (f‐MWCNTs) and NP‐decorated MWCNTs was visually evaluated for seven days in ethanol. The antimicrobial efficacy against Gram‐positive (Staphylococcus aureus), Gram‐negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli) bacteria, and fungi (Candida albicans) was determined using the agar well diffusion assay. Results indicated that Ag‐MWCNTs and Ag@Zn‐MWCNTs nanocomposites exhibited superior antimicrobial activity against P. aeruginosa and C. albicans compared to other tested microorganisms. Conversely, f‐MWCNTs and Zn‐MWCNTs showed no antimicrobial effects
Exploring the Potential of N‐Benzylidenebenzohydrazide Derivatives as Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Agents: Design, Synthesis, Spectroscopic, Crystal Structure, DFT and Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Waziri Ibrahim , Yusuf Tunde L. , Kelani Monsuru T. , Akintemi Eric O. , Olofinsan Kolawole A. , Muller Alfred J.
Published: September 2024

Hydrazone‐type Schiff bases have been widely explored owing to their therapeutic properties. These compounds are known to have antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, and antioxidant properties, among others. In the present study, six hydrazone‐based Schiff bases (BB1–BB6) were synthesized by the reaction between derivatives of benzaldehyde and benzo hydrazide in methanolic medium in the presence of catalytic amount of formic acid. The synthesized compounds were characterized using various spectroscopic techniques such as NMR (1H, 13C, COSY, DEPT, HSQC, HMBC, and NOESY), FTIR, UV‐Vis, elemental (CHN) analysis, and high‐resolution mass spectroscopy. In addition, single crystal structures of BB2, BB4, and BB6 were obtained. In vitro antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of the compounds was evaluated on glucosidase, amylase, NO, FRAP, and DPPH assays, respectively. In all the assays, compounds BB6, BB4, and BB2 showed higher activity than the others. To further explore the chemical reactivity properties and their mechanism of action against the tested assays, DFT and molecular docking study were performed, and the results obtained reinforce the experimental study data.