bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain functional specialization and cooperation in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wu Yue , Gao Manman , Lv Lingling , Yan Yibing , Gao Liying , Geng Zhi , Zhou Shanshan , Zhu Wanqiu , Yu Yongqiang , Tian Yanghua , Ji Gong‐Jun , Hu Panpan , Wu Xingqi , Wang Kai
Published: June 2024

Background

Cerebral specialization and interhemispheric cooperation are two vital features of the human brain. Their dysfunction may be associated with disease progression in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is featured as progressive cognitive degeneration and asymmetric neuropathology.

Objective

This study aimed to examine and define two inherent properties of hemispheric function in patients with AD by utilizing resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI).

Methods

Sixty‐four clinically diagnosed AD patients and 52 age‐ and sex‐matched cognitively normal subjects were recruited and underwent MRI and clinical evaluation. We calculated and compared brain specialization (autonomy index, AI) and interhemispheric cooperation (connectivity between functionally homotopic voxels, CFH).

Results

In comparison to healthy controls, patients with AD exhibited enhanced AI in the left middle occipital gyrus. This increase in specialization can be attributed to reduced functional connectivity in the contralateral region, such as the right temporal lobe. The CFH of the bilateral precuneus and prefrontal areas was significantly decreased in AD patients compared to controls. Imaging‐cognitive correlation analysis indicated that the CFH of the right prefrontal cortex was marginally positively related to the Montreal Cognitive Assessment score in patients and the Auditory Verbal Learning Test score. Moreover, taking abnormal AI and CFH values as features, support vector machine‐based classification achieved good accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve by leave‐one‐out cross‐validation.

Conclusion

This study suggests that individuals with AD have abnormal cerebral specialization and interhemispheric cooperation. This provides new insights for further elucidation of the pathological mechanisms of AD.
Exposure of benzo[a]pyrene induces HCC exosome‐circular RNA to activate lung fibroblasts and trigger organotropic metastasis
Authors: Mu Wei , Gu Pengfei , Li Huating , Zhou Jinjin , Jian Yulun , Jia Weiping , Ge Yang
Published: June 2024

Background

Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), a carcinogen pollutant produced by combustion processes, is present in the western diet with grilled meats. Chronic exposure of B[a]P in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells promotes metastasis rather than primary proliferation, implying an unknown mechanism of B[a]P‐induced malignancy. Given that exosomes carry bioactive molecules to distant sites, we investigated whether and how exosomes mediate cancer‐stroma communications for a toxicologically associated microenvironment.

Method

Exosomes were isolated from B[a]P stimulated BEL7404 HCC cells (7404‐100Bap Exo) at an environmental relevant dose (100 nmol/L). Lung pre‐education animal model was prepared via injection of exosomes and cytokines. The inflammatory genes of educated lungs were evaluated using quantitative reverse transcription PCR array. HCC LM3 cells transfected with firefly luciferase were next injected to monitor tumor burdens and organotropic metastasis. Profile of B[a]P‐exposed exosomes were determined by ceRNA microarray. Interactions between circular RNA (circRNA) and microRNAs (miRNAs) were detected using RNA pull‐down in target lung fibroblasts. Fluorescence in situ hybridization and RNA immunoprecipitation assay was used to evaluate the “on‐off” interaction of circRNA‐miRNA pairs. We further developed an adeno‐associated virus inhalation model to examine mRNA expression specific in lung, thereby exploring the mRNA targets of B[a]P induced circRNA‐miRNA cascade.

Results

Lung fibroblasts exert activation phenotypes, including focal adhesion and motility were altered by 7404‐100Bap Exo. In the exosome‐educated in vivo model, fibrosis factors and pro‐inflammatory molecules of are up‐regulated when injected with exosomes. Compared to non‐exposed 7404 cells, circ_0011496 was up‐regulated following B[a]P treatment and was mainly packaged into 7404‐100Bap Exo. Exosomal circ_0011496 were delivered and competitively bound to miR‐486‐5p in recipient fibroblasts. The down‐regulation of miR‐486‐5p converted fibroblast to cancer‐associated fibroblast via regulating the downstream of Twinfilin‐1 (TWF1) and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP9) cascade. Additionally, increased TWF1, specifically in exosomal circ_0011496 educated lungs, could promote cancer‐stroma crosstalk via activating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). These modulated fibroblasts promoted endothelial cells angiogenesis and recruited primary HCC cells invasion, as a consequence of a pre‐metastatic niche formation.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that B[a]P‐induced tumor exosomes can deliver circ_0011496 to activate miR‐486‐5p/TWF1/MMP9 cascade in the lung fibroblasts, generating a feedback loop that promoted HCC metastasis.
Atomistic Characterization of Healthy and Damaged Hair Surfaces: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study of Fatty Acids on Protein Layer
Authors: Wang Qiang , Phang Jia Min , Chakraborty Souvik , Zhang Liling , Klähn Marco , Nalaparaju Anjaiah , Lim Freda C. H.
Published: June 2024

Amid the bourgeoning demand for in‐silico designed, environmentally sustainable, and highly effective hair care formulations, a growing interest is evident in the exploration of realistic computational model for the hair surface. In this work, we present an atomistic model for the outermost layer of the hair surface derived through molecular dynamics simulations, which comprises 18‐Methyleicosanoic acid (18‐MEA) fatty acid chains covalently bound onto the keratin‐associated protein 10‐4 (KAP10‐4) at a spacing distance of ~1 nm. Remarkably, this hair surface model facilitates the inclusion of free fatty acids (free 18‐MEA) into the gaps between chemically bound 18‐MEA chains, up to a maximum number that results in a packing density of 0.22 nm2 per fatty acid molecule, consistent with the optimal spacing identified through free energy analysis. Atomistic insights are provided for the organization of fatty acid chains, structural features, and interaction energies on protein‐inclusive hair surface models with varying amounts of free 18‐MEA (FMEA) depletion, as well as varying degrees of anionic cysteic acid from damaged bound 18‐MEA (BMEA), under both dry and wet conditions. In the presence of FMEA and water, the fatty acid chains in a pristine hair surface prefers to adopt a thermodynamically favored extended chain conformation, forming a thicker protective layer (~3 nm) on the protein surface. Our simulation results reveal that, while the depletion of FMEA can induce a pronounced impact on the thickness, tilt angle, and order parameters of fatty acid chains, the removal of BMEA has a marked effect on water penetration. There is a “sweet spot” spacing between the 18‐MEA whereby damaged hair surface properties can be reinstated by replenishing FMEA. Through the incorporation of the protein layer and free fatty acids, the hair surface models presented in this study enables a realistic representation of the intricate details within the hair epicuticle, facilitating a molecular scale assessment of surface properties during the formulation design process.
Lack of pulmonary involvement leads to a 3 years delay of diagnosis in a childhood sarcoidosis case with arthritis, ocular symptoms, and bilateral parotid swelling
Authors: Fatih Mohammed Taib , Saleh Renaz Sabir , Majeed Truska Faraidun , Mahmood Mohammed Khalid
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

This paper presents a rare sarcoidosis case in a child of 12 years of age presented with arthritis, bilateral parotid enlargement and ocular, but unfortunately the diagnosis has been missed due to lack of pulmonary involvement.

Diagnosis of sarcoidosis is by exclusion, and sometimes, it can be challenging. This paper presents a rare sarcoidosis case in a child of 12 years of age presented with bilateral parotid enlargement. The signs of musculoskeletal and ocular involvement were present before the parotid enlargement, and the parotid swelling persisted for 3 years; but unfortunately the definite diagnosis has been missed by the previous healthcare professionals most probably due to the rarity of the situation, especially lack of pulmonary involvement. Therefore, cooperation between different healthcare specialties is important for an effective diagnosis and management. Despite its rarity, sarcoidosis should always be present in the list of differential diagnosis when encountering multisystem entities like arthritis, ocular symptoms and parotid swelling.
Cirrhosis due to hepatic sarcoidosis: A rare presentation
Authors: Islam Sumona , Kamal Intisar , Murshed Khaled , Azad Md Abul Kalam
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Sarcoidosis, although predominantly affecting the lungs, can present with cirrhosis, posing diagnostic challenges. Elevated ACE levels and atypical liver enzyme patterns should prompt consideration of sarcoidosis in cryptogenic cirrhosis cases, necessitating comprehensive evaluation including liver biopsy and imaging for accurate diagnosis and timely management.

Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease that can affect various organs, leading to a diverse range of clinical manifestations that make diagnosis challenging. Here, we present a case of sarcoidosis in a middle‐aged male who presented with cirrhosis. The cause of cirrhosis remained unknown for 4 years until the development of lymphadenopathy and ground‐glass opacities on lung imaging. A liver biopsy was performed, which revealed noncaseating granulomatous inflammation, thereby identifying sarcoidosis as the cause of cirrhosis. The patient was treated with oral steroids, which slightly improved his liver function over a short period. Given the diverse presentations of sarcoidosis, it should be considered as a possible differential diagnosis in cases of cryptogenic cirrhosis.
Ochrobactrum anthropi sepsis in a 15‐month‐old child: A case report
Authors: Adefila Williams Oluwatosin , Osei Isaac , Lamin Keita Modou , Wutor Baleng Mahama , Olawale Yusuf Abdulsalam , Molfa Minteh , Barjo Ousman , Omotosho Mayowa , Salaudeen Rasheed , Mackenzie Grant
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Ochrobactrum anthropi (O. anthropi), a rare opportunistic pathogen, caused sepsis in a malnourished 15‐month‐old African child. Early detection and appropriate antibiotics led to full recovery, highlighting the importance of robust surveillance for emerging pathogens in vulnerable populations.

While rarely causing infections, O. anthropi, a non‐fermenting, obligately aerobic, flagellated gram‐negative bacillus, demonstrates oxidase positivity and indole negativity. Traditionally, Ochrobactrum spp is considered a low threat due to its environmental abundance and mild virulence. It is, however, a multidrug‐resistant bacteria known for causing opportunistic infections in humans. O. anthropi is typically associated with catheter‐related bloodstream infections. The first documented case was in 1998; most cases have been reported in developed countries. We present a case of O. anthropi sepsis in a malnourished child in sub‐Saharan Africa. We report a case involving a 15‐month‐old African female who presented with symptoms and signs of protein‐energy malnutrition and sepsis. The blood culture revealed O.anthropi. We treated the child with the empirical first‐line antibiotics per the national guidelines, intravenous ampicillin and gentamicin for a week, and the child fully recovered. This report describes a rare case of O. anthropi sepsis with malnutrition in an African female child. O. anthropi is an emerging pathogen causing opportunistic infections in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. We report that early bacterial detection, appropriate antibiotic susceptibility and antimicrobial management based on local antibiogram data may be essential for excellent patient outcomes. Additionally, we recommend more robust surveillance to detect such rare emerging pathogens.
Surface Termination (−O, −F or −OH) and Metal Doping on the HER Activity of Mo2CTx MXene
Authors: Li Huidong , Chen Yuping , Tang Qing
Published: June 2024

Two‐dimensional MXenes have recently garnered significant attention as electrocatalytic materials for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, previous theoretical studies mainly focused on the effect of pure functional groups while neglecting hybrid functional groups that are commonly observed in experiments. Herein, we investigated the hybrid functionalized Mo2CTx MXene (T=−O, −F or −OH) to probe the HER properties. In binary O/F co‐functionalization, the presence of F groups would attenuate the H adsorption and lead to the enhanced HER activity than the fully O‐terminated Mo2CO2. However, the surface HER activity of ternary O/F/OH functionalized Mo2CTx is not satisfactory owing to the relatively weak H adsorption capacity. To further enhance the catalytic activity, modification was performed by introducing another metal element into its lattice structure. The doped metal (Fe, Co, Ni, Cu) exhibits reduced charge transfer to O compared to Mo atoms, leading to enhanced H adsorption and improved overall activity. The synergistic effect of hybrid functionalization and TM modification provides useful guidance for achieving feasible Mo2CTx candidates with high HER performance, which can be applied to the electrocatalytic applications of other MXenes.
An opportunity or burden? Firms' engagement in poverty alleviation campaign under different business strategies
Authors: Zou Hailiang , Ouyang Ling , Yang Xiyuan
Published: June 2024

The government‐initiated campaign for targeted poverty alleviation (TPA) not only affords corporations an opportunity to extend their presence into underdeveloped regions but also imposes a consequential burden upon them to contribute to ameliorating poverty. Firms' motivations in this endeavor are intricately linked to the alignment of their business strategies with the TPA activities. We posit that firms adopting a cost leadership approach are inclined to actively partake in poverty alleviation, due to a congruence between their strategic positioning and the activities intrinsic to poverty alleviation. And firms embracing a differentiation strategy are impelled by extrinsic pressures to engage in poverty alleviation, as they face heightened societal expectations regarding their involvement in such altruistic endeavors. Drawing from a dataset comprising Chinese listed firms from 2017 to 2020, our empirical findings bring to light a significant correlation between both cost leadership and differentiation strategies and firms' contributions to the TPA campaign. And, the impact of a cost leadership strategy on firms' involvement in poverty alleviation activities surpasses that of a differentiation strategy. This influence is further accentuated for firms contending with rivals pursuing a differentiated approach in the competitive landscape, which may block their way moving upmarket. Moreover, the nexus between a differentiation strategy and a firm's participation in poverty alleviation gains more strength where local government intervention in the economy is more pronounced. This study delves into the nuanced motivations that underpin firms' participation in the TPA campaign within the framework of business strategies, offering insights for both policymakers and business practitioners.
Chitin‐Derived Hierarchical Meso‐ and Microporous Carbon Enables High‐Rate Sulfur Cathode of Sodium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Xu Huanhuan , Zhao Xiangyu
Published: June 2024

Room temperature Na−S batteries are considered as a promising alternative energy storage system because of their abundant material resources and high theoretical energy density. However, the severe polysulfide shuttle effect and slow reaction kinetics hinder their practical application. Herein, a hierarchical meso‐ and microporous carbon with nitrogen self‐doping (NSPC) is prepared using chitin as the carbon precursor and serves as a novel host to confine the sulfur (S⊂NSPC). An optimized structure of NSPC, including abundant graphite nanocrystals, large pore volume of 1.76 cm3 g−1, and large specific surface area of 2073 m2 g−1 is obtained at the carbonization temperature of 1000 °C. These merits contribute to significantly enhanced charge transfer and ion diffusion of the as‐prepared S⊂NSPC‐1000 cathode, which exhibits the outstanding sodium storage performance, including high reversible capacities of 1207 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and 891 mAh g−1 at 2 C and stable cycling with a low capacity decay for 400 cycles at 1 C, among other S⊂NSPC cathodes and previously reported cathodes for Na−S batteries. This cathode can also afford stable cycling at a high sulfur loading.
First results of multi‐fluid modeling of detached hydrogen plasmas in a linear plasma device using fluid code LINDA‐NU
Authors: Sugiura Kento , Ido Taichi , Tanaka Hirohiko , Natsume Hiroki , Masuda Shota , Hoshino Kazuo , Sawada Keiji , Ohno Noriyasu
Published: June 2024

In order to simulate hydrogen (H) plasma in the linear plasma device NAGDIS‐II, we have modified the fluid code LINDA‐NU to allow the simultaneous calculation of multiple ion species consisting of hydrogen atomic ions () and molecular ions (). In this simulation, H and neutrals are assumed to be uniformly distributed in space in order to obtain initial qualitative results. The fraction of ions increases as the molecular density increases, and the recombination process between and electrons is observed to reduce the particle flux to the target plate. With an increase in H density, the electron density increases due to the decrease in ion flow velocity due to the change exchange process, and the electron temperature decreases to less than 1 eV, leading to the detached plasma formation attributed to the electron‐ion recombination process.
Morphological and life‐history trait plasticity of two Daphnia species induced by fish kairomones
Authors: Jin Qide , Wang Yeping , Zhang Kun , Li Guoqing , Chen Yanan , Hong Yujuan , Cheng Hanxue , Deng Daogui
Published: June 2024

Daphnia can avoid predation by sensing fish kairomones and producing inducible defenses by altering the phenotype. In this study, the results showed that the morphological and life‐history strategies of two Daphnia species (Daphnia pulex and Daphnia sinensis) exposed to Aristichthys nobilis kairomones. In the presence of fish kairomones, the two Daphnia species exhibited significantly smaller body length at maturity, smaller body length of offspring at the 10th instar, and longer relative tail spine of offspring. Nevertheless, other morphological and life‐history traits of the two Daphnia species differed. D. pulex showed a significantly longer relative tail spine length and earlier age at maturity after exposure to fish kairomones. The total offspring number of D. sinensis exposed to fish kairomones was significantly higher than that of the control group, whereas that of D. pulex was significantly lower. These results suggest that the two Daphnia species have different inducible defense strategies (e.g., morphological and life‐history traits) during prolonged exposure to A. nobilis kairomones, and their offspring also develop morphological defenses to avoid predation. It will provide reference for further exploring the adaptive evolution of Daphnia morphology and life‐history traits in the presence of planktivorous fish.
The effects of environmental variability and forest management on natural forest carbon stock in northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Kassaye Melkamu , Derebe Yonas , Kibrie Wondwossen , Debebe Fikadu , Emiru Etsegenet , Gedamu Bahiru , Tamir Mulugeta
Published: June 2024

Natural forests are crucial for climate change mitigation and adaptation, but deforestation and degradation challenges highly reduce their value. This study evaluates the potential of natural forest carbon stock and the influence of management interventions on enhancing forest carbon storage capacity. Based on forest area cover, a study was conducted in nine purposely selected forest patches across various forest ecosystems. Data on diameter, height, and environmental variables from various forest management approaches were collected and analyzed with R Ver. 4.1. The findings revealed a substantial difference (p .029) in carbon stock between environmental variables and management interventions. The findings revealed a strong connection between environmental variables and the overall pool of carbon stock within forest patches (p .029). Carbon stocks were highest in the Moist‐montane forest ecosystem (778.25 ton/ha), moderate slope (1019.5 ton/ha), lower elevation (614.50 ton/ha), southwest‐facing (800.1 ton/ha) and area exclosures (993.2 ton/ha). Accordingly, natural forests, particularly unmanaged parts, are sensitive to anthropogenic stresses, decreasing their ability to efficiently store carbon. As a result, the study highlighted the importance of sustainable forest management, particularly area exclosures and participatory forest management, in increasing forest carbon storage potential.
U.S. LNG As an International Solution to Climate Change—Obstacles and Alternatives
Authors: Smead Richard G.
Published: June 2024

In my May, 2024 column, The Biden Administration's LNG Pause: Impacts and Long‐term Implications,1 I discussed at the conclusion how important U.S. Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) could be as a tool to address climate change outside of North America. Figure 1, which was included in that column, illustrates how dramatically greenhouse‐gas (GHG) emissions from energy have increased in Asia during a period when those in North America have been flat to declining. Thus, I suggested that making the export of LNG to China and India in particular, if it would displace coal in power generation, could and should be a pillar of U.S. energy policy.
What Is the Aim of Pediatric “Gender‐Affirming” Care?
Authors: Gorin Moti
Published: June 2024

The original “Dutch Protocol”—the treatment model comprised of puberty blockers, cross‐sex hormones, and surgery—was intended to improve the mental and physical health of pediatric patients experiencing distress over their sexed bodies. Consequently, both researchers and clinicians have couched eligibility for treatment and measures of treatment efficacy in terms of the interventions’ effects on outcomes such as gender dysphoria, depression, anxiety, and suicide. However, recent systematic reviews have concluded that the scientific evidence supporting these interventions is uncertain, leading to significant international differences in what treatments are offered to youth. Against this backdrop, a different argumentative approach has emerged in support of gender‐affirming care. This approach appeals not to reductions in patient morbidity or mortality but to patient autonomy, where medical intervention is pursued as a means to the satisfaction of a patient's “embodiment goals.” In this article, I raise objections to autonomy‐based justifications for pediatric gender‐affirming care, concluding that these arguments misunderstand the place of autonomy in clinical decision‐making and, consequently, put patients at risk of medical harm.
Passion versus positivity: How work passion and dispositional affect predict job satisfaction and its facets
Authors: Landay Karen , Schwartz Shoshana , Williams Jaime L.
Published: June 2024

Work passion—a motive that contains affective and cognitive components—is highly desirable and has positive consequences for individuals and organizations. We propose work passion as the missing piece that can explain unique variance in job satisfaction above and beyond the established predictor of dispositional affect. Taking a motivational approach based on the Dualistic Model of Passion and self‐determination theory, we tested how two types of work passion (harmonious and obsessive) and two types of dispositional affect (positive and negative) predicted overall job satisfaction and nine job satisfaction facets (satisfaction with pay, promotion, supervision, fringe benefits, contingent rewards, operating conditions, coworkers, the nature of work, and communication). In a two‐wave study of working adults, structural equation modeling and regression‐based relative weights analysis showed that harmonious passion predicted the largest proportion of variance in job satisfaction overall and in all nine of its facets. Together, our findings highlight the importance of harmonious passion and the utility of a motivational theoretical perspective on job satisfaction for HR scholars and practitioners.
Outcomes of interventions in neonatal sepsis: A systematic review of qualitative research
Authors: Taneri Petek Eylul , Devane Declan , Kirkham Jamie , Molloy Eleanor , Daly Mandy , Branagan Aoife , Suguitani Denise , Wynn James L. , Kissoon Niranjan , Kawaza Kondwani , Simons Sinno H. P. , Bonnard Lívia Nagy , Giannoni Eric , Strunk Tobias , Ohaja Magdalena , Mugabe Kenneth , Quirke Fiona , Bazilio Kateregga , Biesty Linda
Published: June 2024

Background

While a systematic review exists detailing neonatal sepsis outcomes from clinical trials, there remains an absence of a qualitative systematic review capturing the perspectives of key stakeholders.

Objectives

Our aim is to identify outcomes from qualitative research on any intervention to prevent or improve the outcomes of neonatal sepsis that are important to parents, other family members, healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers as a part of the development of a core outcome set (COS) for neonatal sepsis.

Search Strategy

A literature search was carried out using MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycInfo databases.

Selection Criteria

Publications describing qualitative data relating to neonatal sepsis outcomes were included.

Data Collection and Analysis

Drawing on the concepts of thematic synthesis, texts related to outcomes were coded and grouped. These outcomes were then mapped to the domain headings of an existing model.

Main Results

Out of 6777 records screened, six studies were included. Overall, 19 outcomes were extracted from the included studies. The most frequently reported outcomes were those in the domains related to parents, healthcare workers and individual organ systemas such as gastrointestinal system. The remaining outcomes were classified under the headings of general outcomes, miscellaneous outcomes, survival, and infection.

Conclusions

The outcomes identified in this review are different from those reported in neonatal sepsis clinical trials, thus highlighting the importance of incorporating qualitative studies into COS development to encapsulate all relevant stakeholders' perspectives.
Hospital costs and reimbursement for short‐stay inpatient versus observation status hospitalizations for children with medical complexity
Authors: Arar Stephanie , Hall Matt , Johnson Katherine , Katragadda Harita , Martinez Kelli , Dadwani Anum , Chen Clifford N. , Devarakonda Aishwarya , Gribbons Megan , Challa Lasya , Gupta Ankita T. , Patel Amee , Solomon Courtney , Nunneley Chloë E. , Lee Benjamin C. , Yu Andrew G.
Published: June 2024

Background

There is a lack of uniformity across hospitals in applying inpatient versus observation status for short‐stay (<48 h) pediatric hospitalizations, with negative financial implications associated with observation. Children with medical complexity (CMC) represent a growing population and incur high costs of care. The financial implications of inpatient and observation status for CMC have not been studied.

Objectives

To compare costs and reimbursement for short‐stay hospitalizations for CMC by inpatient and observation status, overall and stratified by payor.

Methods

We performed a cohort study of short‐stay hospitalizations for CMC from 2016 to 2021 at 10 children's hospitals reporting reimbursement in the Pediatric Health Information System and Revenue Management Program. The primary outcome was the cost coverage ratio (CCR), defined as an encounter's reimbursement divided by the estimated cost.

Results

There were 89,282 encounters included. The median costs per encounter were similar across observation ($5206, IQR $3604–$7484) and inpatient ($6547, IQR $4725–$9349) encounters. For government payors, the median CCR was 0.6 (IQR 0.2–0.9) for observation encounters and 1.2 (IQR 0.8–1.9) for inpatient. For nongovernment payors, the median CCR was 1.6 (IQR 1.3–1.9) for observation and 1.6 (IQR 1.4–2) for inpatient. Government reimbursement was associated with increased risk for financial loss (OR 13.91, 95% CI 7.23, 26.77) and with a median net loss of $985,952 (IQR $389,871–$1,700,041) per hospital annually for observation encounters.

Conclusions

Government‐paid observation encounters for CMC are associated with significant financial loss at children's hospitals. This reimbursement model may pose a threat to children's hospitals' ability to care for CMC.
A multicenter randomized trial to compare automatic versus as‐needed follow‐up for children hospitalized with common infections: The FAAN‐C trial protocol
Authors: Coon Eric R. , Greene Tom , Fritz Julie , Desai Arti D. , Ray Kristin N. , Hersh Adam L. , Bardsley Tyler , Bonafide Christopher P. , Brady Patrick W. , Wallace Sowdhamini S. , Schroeder Alan R. ,   FAAN‐C Trial Group
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Physicians commonly recommend automatic primary care follow‐up visits to children being discharged from the hospital. While automatic follow‐up provides an opportunity to address postdischarge needs, the alternative is as‐needed follow‐up. With this strategy, families monitor their child's symptoms and decide if they need a follow‐up visit in the days after discharge. In addition to being family centered, as‐needed follow‐up has the potential to reduce time and financial burdens on both families and the healthcare system. As‐needed follow‐up has been shown to be safe and effective for children hospitalized with bronchiolitis, but the extent to which hospitalized children with other common conditions might benefit from as‐needed follow‐up is unclear.

Methods

The Follow‐up Automatically versus As‐Needed Comparison (FAAN‐C, or “fancy”) trial is a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Children who are hospitalized for pneumonia, urinary tract infection, skin and soft tissue infection, or acute gastroenteritis are eligible to participate. Participants are randomized to an as‐needed versus automatic posthospitalization follow‐up recommendation. The sample size estimate is 2674 participants and the primary outcome is all‐cause hospital readmission within 14 days of discharge. Secondary outcomes are medical interventions and child health‐related quality of life. Analyses will be conducted in an intention‐to‐treat manner, testing noninferiority of as‐needed follow‐up compared with automatic follow‐up.

Discussion

FAAN‐C will elucidate the relative benefits of an as‐needed versus automatic follow‐up recommendation, informing one of the most common decisions faced by families of hospitalized children and their medical providers. Findings from FAAN‐C will also have implications for national quality metrics and guidelines.
Quantitative evaluation of soil water balance under a ridge‐furrow rainwater harvesting system in Chinese rainfed agroecosystem
Authors: Zhang Jiasen , Zhang Lin , Liu Xufei , Yang Xue
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

The ridge‐furrow rainwater harvesting system (RFRH) is an advanced farmland management technology that plays a vital role in making full use of rainwater resources. However, it is not clear that RFRH affects crop yield and water use efficiency (WUE) by regulating soil water storage (SWS). Therefore, the present study conducted a meta‐analysis to make a large compilation of previous studies and indirectly quantify the impact of RFRH on crop yield and WUE by analysing the effect of RFRH on SWS.

RESULTS

The results showed that RFRH improved crop yield and WUE by 26.71% and 25.86%, respectively, by increasing SWS by 3.93% compared to the traditional flat cultivation. RFRH had a significant effect on increasing crop yield and WUE and improving SWS. A low ridge‐furrow ratio and ridge‐furrow mulching were recommended to obtain positive effects on crop yield and WUE when potatoes are grown in areas with high precipitation (600–800 mm). Furthermore, when nitrogen fertilization is applied during the crop growth period, we also found that a medium nitrogen fertilizer rate is recommended to achieve a significant positive effect on crop yield and WUE. Importantly, a win‐win analysis showed the proportions of various groups in the target zone (zone I) to determine the appropriate strategy for RFRH of crops.

CONCLUSION

The present study provides a scientific reference for the future application of the RFRH. The study provides scientific recommendations on crop types, ridge‐furrow configurations, plastic mulching patterns and nitrogen fertilizer rate for future RFRH applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Idiosyncratic phenology of greenhouse gas emissions in a Mediterranean reservoir
Authors: Rodríguez‐Velasco Eva , Peralta‐Maraver Ignacio , Martínez‐García Andrés , García‐Alguacil Miriam , Picazo Félix , Gonçalves Rodrigo J. , Ramón Cintia L. , Morales‐Baquero Rafael , Rueda Francisco J. , Reche Isabel
Published: June 2024

Extreme hydrological and thermal regimes characterize the Mediterranean zone and can influence the phenology of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in reservoirs. Our study examined the seasonal changes in GHG emissions of a shallow, eutrophic, hardwater reservoir in Spain. We observed distinctive seasonal patterns for each gas. CH4 emissions substantially increased during stratification, influenced predominantly by the increase in water temperature, net ecosystem production, and the decline in reservoir mean depth. N2O emissions mirrored CH4's seasonal trend, significantly correlating to water temperature, wind speed, and gross primary production. Conversely, CO2 emissions decreased during stratification and displayed a quadratic, rather than a linear relationship with water temperature—an unexpected deviation from CH4 and N2O emission patterns—likely associated with photosynthetic uptake of bicarbonate and formation of intracellular calcite that might be exported to sediments. This investigation highlights the imperative of integrating these idiosyncratic patterns into GHG emissions models, enhancing their predictive power.
Environmentally Degradable Polymers Incorporating Stimuli‐Triggered Cleavable Linkages toward Industrial Materials
Authors: Ono Hideaki , Tanaka Shinji , Yoshida Masaru
Published: June 2024

Plastics designed to degrade upon exposure to ambient stimuli after use are emerging as promising alternatives to conventional plastics, considering environmental pollution. The so‐called “biodegradable polymers,” which can be degraded by enzymes or microbes, are the most reliable biodegradable polymers, and considerable effort is devoted to their practical application. Several other examples are also developed for the cleavage of chemical bonds in macromolecules, as one part of a vast variety of “stimuli‐responsive polymers,” especially for biomedical applications. These chemical insights provide a design concept that can even be extended to plastic materials. Here, stimuli‐cleavable linkages, drawing from the chemical insights cultivated in biomedical fields, intended for application in degradable plastics, are outlined. As stimuli for polymer degradation, pH changes, photoirradiation, and redox conditions are selected because polymers released in natural environments may inadvertently be exposed to these stimuli. The degradation pathways are grouped into five categories: 1) stimuli‐cleavable linkages, 2) self‐amplifying, 3) self‐immolative, 4) chain shattering, and 5) double responsive. The classification and organization of the stimuli‐cleavable linkages provide insights for designing new, degradable polymers.
Functionalized Unsaturated Polyester as Electrical Insulation Varnish
Authors: Gümüş Selinay , Aksoy Kaan , Aytac Ayse
Published: June 2024

Silsesquioxanes (SQs) are mostly used to provide high‐temperature electrical insulation of resins. Here, SQ is used to functionalize unsaturated polyester (UPE) varnish and investigate the effect of functionalization on the thermal and electrical properties of UPE varnishes. The solvent‐free varnish incorporates a reactive diluent to decrease viscosity and a catalyst to expedite hardening, eliminating the need for solvents. Vinyl toluene (VT) and 1,4‐butanediol dimethacrylate (BDDMA) serve as hardening agents, consistent with prior research. Various characterization tests, including Fourier transform infrared, thermogravimetric analyzer, assessment of thermal conductivity coefficient, and determination of electrical volume–surface resistance, are conducted to determine the physical, thermal, chemical, and electrical properties of the synthesized SQ‐functionalized UPE (UPES) varnishes. Results indicate that the UPES–BDDMA varnish demonstrates the highest thermal decomposition temperature at 438.0 °C, while the UPES–VT varnish exhibits the highest electrical volume resistance of 2.85 × 1015Ω cm. Volatile organic compound levels in UPE coatings range between 4.9% and 5.10% reflecting the growing demand for eco‐friendly products. It is shown in this study that the use of BDDMA and VT reactive monomers in the synthesis of SQ‐functionalized UPE resin and the properties of the resulting varnishes, especially electrical insulation and thermal stability, are improved.
Establish an agricultural drought index that is independent of historical element probabilities
Authors: Pan Yongdi , Xiao Jingjing , Pan Yanhua
Published: June 2024

Currently, there are three main shortcomings in meteorological drought indices: first, they rely on historical climate probability functions; second, the timescale used in calculations has a certain degree of subjectivity; third, the same index value may correspond to vastly different levels of actual drought in different climate types of regions. The purpose of this article is to establish a meteorological drought index that does not rely on historical meteorological element probability functions. Through theoretical derivation, four drought‐level maintenance lines are established on the cumulative precipitation‐cumulative water surface evaporation coordinate plane, and the coordinate quadrant is divided into five drought‐level areas. Through forward daily rolling accumulation, the maximum distance point is selected from the dynamically changing coordinate points to determine the corresponding cumulative precipitation and cumulative evaporation. The meteorological drought index is established by the distance from the selected coordinate point to each drought‐level maintenance line. Using daily precipitation and evaporation data from meteorological observation stations, the index is calculated based on the established meteorological drought index model, and compared with actual drought evolution and drought disaster records. The results show that the index can capture the development of drought well, and its changes are very consistent with drought disaster records. The index is of great significance for drought monitoring or assessment, and can provide guidance for water resource allocation, crop layout, and urban planning. Furthermore, it can also provide a way of thinking that does not rely on historical element probabilities for future drought research.
Optimal decisions for green products with advanced payment scheme and selling price‐dependent demand under interval uncertainty
Authors: Ali Hachen , Shaikh Ali Akbar , Hezam Ibrahim M. , Alshamrani Ahmad M. , Gwak Jeonghwan
Published: June 2024

In the current competitive market, green products are becoming more and more in demand across all customer demographics due to environmental contamination. Consequently, this has a direct impact on the notable rise in product demand. Conversely, a product cannot be used or repurposed if its maximum useful life has already elapsed. Therefore, the product's maximum lifespan plays a crucial role in inventory management. Advance payment is a critical component of the supplier–retailer relationship for a seasonal product with high demand. By integrating these issues, an inventory model for perishable goods is created, wherein the demand for the good is impacted by both its selling price and its green level. The model also includes linearly time‐dependent holding costs. According to this model, product greenness has an increasing effect on per‐unit costs. Different numerical examples are studied for supporting this model. Optimality of the objective function is shown graphically as well as numerically with the help of MATHEMATICA software. Finally, a fruitful conclusion is reached after performing a sensitivity analysis and visually depicting the impact of changing various factors.
Diversity of solitonic wave structures to the M‐truncated dynamical system in ultrasound imaging
Authors: Yao Fengping , Younas Usman
Published: June 2024

The utilization of ultrasound imaging has become extensively prevalent and well‐established in clinical practice. The fundamental technologies that serve as the foundation for various applications in the field include transducers, beam shaping, pulse compression, tissue harmonic imaging, contrast agents, methodologies for quantifying blood flow and tissue motion, and three‐dimensional imaging. This article focuses on the examination of ultrasonic propagation, which involves the transmission of mechanical vibrations within the molecules or particles of a material. It quantifies the velocity of sound propagation in the medium of air. The third‐order nonlinear M‐fractional Westervelt model has been used as a governing model in the imaging process for securing the different wave structures. The recently developed computational methods have been applied in this study. The different wave structures are secured in various forms of solitary wave solutions including bright, dark, and combo solitons. In the domains of medical imaging and therapy, the investigation of sound wave propagation and high‐amplitude phenomena is facilitated by the utilization of wave structures. The effectiveness of these solutions extends to acoustic cavitation, acoustic levitation, underwater acoustics, and facilitating the process of ultrasonic propagation in tissue. Ultrasound imaging technologies currently find application in the medical field, enabling the visualization and examination of internal human tissue. This technology exhibits a wide array of applications in the fields of industry and medicine. A representation of the graphs is produced using the appropriate parametric values. The results suggest that the chosen approaches exhibit effectiveness, viability, and adaptability when implemented in complex systems in various fields, with particular emphasis on ultrasonic imaging.
Mathematical analysis of acoustic wave interaction of vibrating rigid plates with subsonic flows
Authors: Hussain Sajjad , Nawaz Rab , Bibi Aysha
Published: June 2024

This research article investigates the effects of object's vibration and fluid movement on the acoustics of subsonic flows, specifically focusing on the scattering of acoustic waves by a vibrating rigid plate submerged in uniform flow. The acoustic plane wave that impacts the plate, coupled with its oscillatory motion, causes a disruption in the fluid medium. This disturbance, in turn, gives rise to a Rayleigh wave that propagates along the boundary separating the plate and the fluid. The study uses the Wiener‐Hopf technique to analytically model the acoustic scattering by a rigid barrier of finite dimensions and analyze the relationship between acoustics and structures. The method involves applying Fourier transformations to the governing boundary value problem and resolving the Wiener‐Hopf equations using the factorization theorem, Liouville's theorem, and analytical continuation. The integral equations of scattered potential computed asymptotically are used to describe the acoustic characteristics of structures and their interaction with fluid flow in subsonic conditions. The findings of the study reveal the sharp peaks of the scattered potential at certain angles with more oscillation in high subsonic flow. Also, increasing the frequency of the vibrating plate increases the amplitude of the scattered potential but is attenuated in mean flow whereas enhancing plate vibrations amplifies the scattered sound, and it is more vibrant in high subsonic flow than mean flow and no fluid flow. This research has applications in noise reduction, aeronautical engineering, and the detection of underwater structures using acoustic waves and micropolar elastic media.
History and ecology of wild-captured crawfish in Louisiana
Authors: Gambill Mahala G. , Midway Stephen R.
Published: June 2024

Objective

The lower Mississippi River floodplain has historically been harvested for wild crawfish since the 1800s. Changes in seasonal hydrology align with the life history of the red swamp crawfish Procambarus clarkii and the white river crawfish P. zonangulus, making them primary targets for commercial and recreational harvesters. The goal of this study was to use over 20 years of long-term data from Louisiana to evaluate the association of river stage and local precipitation with crawfish harvest.

Methods

Crawfish landings data from 1999 to 2022, in addition to monthly Atchafalaya River stage height and monthly precipitation, were used to evaluate potential (delayed) effects of the environmental variables across a range of months.

Result

Annual wild crawfish landings averaged 5 million kg at a value of US$10 million, with 90% of statewide landings historically from the Atchafalaya River basin. We found two clusters of the effect of river stage on crawfish landings: (1) late-fall (November and December) river stage significantly increased the early crawfish season (February) landings; and (2) winter (January and February) river stage significantly increased the March and April crawfish landings. Precipitation was only found to have an effect in one monthly combination.

Conclusion

The wild crawfish fishery is viewed as an annual crop with little regulation, and this status may continue into the future. However, we have now quantified the effects of environmental variables associated with harvest, providing a deeper understanding of the river–crawfish relationship. These results may assist the future management of crawfish if harvest increases or if the river system experiences extreme (flow) conditions.
One‐Loop Effective Potential in Scherk–Schwarz Compactifications of Pure d=5$d=5$ Supergravities
Authors: Dall'Agata Gianguido , Zwirner Fabio
Published: June 2024

We perform a systematic analysis of the one‐loop effective potential of pure supergravities, with supersymmetry fully broken by a Scherk–Schwarz compactification on the circle, as a function of the radial modulus. We discuss the precise correspondence between the effective potential in the full compactified theory and its counterpart in the reduced theory. We confirm that is finite for any , in contrast to . We find that for broken supergravity is negative definite even after accounting for the Kaluza–Klein states. We outline a program for future work where the study of a different kind of Scherk‐Schwarz compactifications, still at the field theory level but with at least three extra dimensions, could lead to qualitatively new results.