bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Effect of Tonsillectomy on Antistreptolysin O (ASO) Titer
Authors: Bakir Saud Salim , Abdulridha Mohammed Zaki Salim , Attallah Laith Mahmood
Published: September 2023

Background: Acute recurrent tonsillitis is a common problem worldwide and tonsillectomy is the preferable treatment for patients not responding to medical treatment. Many patients with acute recurrent tonsillitis and increased antistreptolysin O (ASO) titers are caused by group A beta hemolytic streptococcal (GABHS) tonsillitis, which can lead to serious side effects such rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis. ‎

Aim: To assess the consequence of tonsillectomy on ASO titer.

Patients and Method: This prospective study was conducted to analyze the consequence of tonsillectomy on 43 patients with raised antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer out of 220 patients with acute recurrent tonsillitis, for the period from October 2015 to October 2016 at Otolaryngology department, Tertiary referring hospital at Erbil, Kurdistan/Iraq. Their Demographic characteristics, medical, drug and family history and disease extent were analyzed. Postoperative follow up were processed.

Results: The study included 43 patients between 3 to 16 years suffering from acute recurrent tonsillitis, elevated ASO titer (≥200 IU/ml) and positive throat swab for GABHS were included in the study. Six months postoperatively had been shown that there is a significant reduction in ASO titer in comparison to preoperative measures (p < 0.001) and this is also applicable to the number of sore throat episodes.

Conclusion: The main conclusion from this study is significant effect of tonsillectomy on decreasing ASO titer which reveals the reduction in postoperative GABHS throat infection, this supported by reduction of postoperative sore throat episodes.
An Evaluation of the Presence of Heavy Metals in the Poultry Feeds Marketed in Ijebu Jesa, Osun State
Authors: Oladeji Francis Olusegun , Adelola Adepoju , Abolayo Tawakalitu T. , Awodele Oluwaseun , Ayodeji Ojedeji Kolawole , Adedayo Olanrewaju John
Published: September 2023

One of the most crucial areas of agriculture is poultry production, with commercial layers and broilers making a significant contribution to supplying the rising need for protein from the growing population through eggs and meats. It's crucial that hens have enough of certain necessary metals like copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn) in their meals. We examined the levels of cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), and zinc (Zn) in four brands of two commercial feeds (Animal care and Top feeds) that are often used by chicken farmers in Osun state. The meals were bought at Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State, from several retail establishments. Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) analysis was done after the feeds had been ashed, digested, and examined for metal contamination. The concentration of the key components was consistently lowest in starting feed. The feed had relatively little of the necessary components (copper, zinc, iron, and manganese). Because of this, the projected nutritional values of the feed based on the concentrations of the necessary components were extremely low. This demonstrates that supplements were not provided to the diets as was reasonable to expect. The feed samples, however, had very high levels of lead. Anthropogenic sources of lead contamination in the environment, particularly fossil fuels, may be to blame for this. Adoption of alternative renewable energy sources like biodiesel and bioethanol is highly necessary.
AMREF Awareness Creation Campaign and Reduction of Obstetrics Fistula Stigma: Evidence from Misungwi District, Tanzania
Authors: Mgaya Adrian , Mwila Prospery M.
Published: September 2023

Obstetric fistula is a maternal health issue. According to statistics, 3,000 Tanzanian women have obstetric fistula each year. Women, particularly in certain rural regions, endure extended periods of untreated fistula. They experience tremendous psychological stress throughout this time of obstetric fistula pain. In this study, women's empowerment and psychosocial fistula campaigns were used as a case study to explore how AMREF awareness-raising initiatives helped to lessen the stigma associated with obstetric fistula in the Misungwi area. The study employed a sample size of 40 participants, including fistula survivors, healthcare professionals, and fistula ambassadors. Both qualitative and quantitative data gathering techniques were employed in the study. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. According to the study, 54% of the fistula survivors learned about the condition from people who were identified as "fistula ambassadors," followed by 26% of health professionals, 18% of people who heard about it through media such as radio, and 2% of older women. No one mentioned their own personal experiences. According to the research, 60% of the survivors said they searched for health information frequently, 30% said they did so only when necessary, and the remaining 10% said they did not so frequently. The study also showed that 27% of the survivors did not believe that the community had adequate awareness about fistula, whereas 73% of the survivors saw that the community had enough awareness. The stigma associated with not knowing about fistula can be upsetting and invalidating, but it also has more serious effects, including promoting intolerance, fear, and prejudice against other individuals. To have a positive impact on the obstetric fistula programme, organizations should collaborate with respected community members, including local decision-makers, religious leaders, traditional healers, midwives, and other professionals in the health care industry.
Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion/Pulmonary Arterial Systolic Pressure Ratio as a Predictor of Mortality in Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Couissi Abdessamad , Ettachfini Taha , Rochd Mehdi , Maaroufi Anass , Haboub Meryem , Habbal Rachida
Published: September 2023

Aims: We aimed to investigate the prognostic value of the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE)/ pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP) ratio in Moroccan patients with heart Failure (HF). 

Study Design: A retrospective study was conducted in The Cardiology Department of Ibn Rochd Hospital of Casablanca in Morocco. The study was conducted in the period between March 2012 to March 2016 with a follow-up until December 2022.

Methods: data were evaluated from the HF register patients and their relatives were contacted by phone. Patients with reduced LVEF were included, patients with pulmonary embolism, and patients with HFpEF were excluded. The endpoint of the study was mortality.

Results:  128 patients were enrolled Over an average follow-up of 58 months. 51(41.4%) patients died at the end of the follow-up, the median value of left ventricular ejection fraction was 35.2 ± 2.2%. Patients were stratified according to the TAPSE/PASP ratio (low <0.32 mm/mmHg; high: >0.32 mm/mmHg). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that ten-year all-cause mortality was significantly higher in patients with TAPSE/PASP ≤0.32 mm/mmHg than in patients with TAPSE/PASP > 0.32 mm/mmHg (log-rank 7.8, p =0.008) Cox regression analysis revealed that lower LVEF (p= 0.04), and a ratio of TAPSE\PAPS <0.32 (p=0.02) were associated to an increase in all-cause mortality.  

Conclusion: Correlating right ventricular function to loading conditions may be more accurate in assessing its real contractility and predicting patients’ outcomes. Our study showed that TAPSE/PASP appears as a novel prognostic predictor in patients with Heart failure.
Effects of Zero-budget Natural Farming on Yield, Earthworm Populations, Microbiological Activity, and the Requirement for Public Policy: A Review
Authors: Mishra Suraj , Chaubey Anand Kumar , Gaur Amar Singh , Tripathi Kaushlendra Mani , Prajapati Deepak , Sahu Sandeep
Published: September 2023

At this moment, Indian agriculture is facing a crucial crisis due to the diminishing hope of the green revolution. Overuse and wasteful exploitation of the green revolution's crops have negatively impacted food security and the environment. In recent years, Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF), a rapidly expanding farming method influenced by agroecological principles, has been suggested to increase farm viability and food security. By 2050, sixty percent of Indians will have severe food insufficiencies. There is an urgent need for increased food production, yet farmers are becoming indebted due to the high cost of production and shifting market pricing. This concept works on four concepts they are jeevamrith, bijamrith, mulching, and soil aeration. These four concepts help better soil health, increased microbial population, and enhanced crop yield. Different astras used to control pest infestation in natural farming. Here we discussed ZBNF is requires low input cost, good soil health management, and focused on major challenges and opportunities to adopt ZBNF and what are the policies need to improve this system. ZBNF is the best option for dropping farmers' input costs. This paper reviews the concepts of natural farming in the context of its eco-friendly nature and sustainability.
Response of NPK and Organic Manures on Growth, and Root, Yield of Carrot (Daucus carota L.) cv. Nantes
Authors: Singh Pranjal , Kerketta Anita , Bahadur Vijay , Topno Sameer E.
Published: September 2023

A trial was conducted at the Horticulture Research Farm (HRF), Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh during winter 2022 to study the “Response of NPK and Organic Manures on Growth and Root, Yield of Carrot (Daucus carota L.) cv. Nantes”. Results revealed that treatment T2 100% NPK emerged as superior over all other treatment combination in terms of Plant height 59.05 cm, Fresh weight of leaves per plant 137.18, Root yield per plot 4.30 kg, Yield 426.40 quintal/ha-1 T3 75%NPK + FYM number of leaves 19.88,T5 75% NPK + PM  Fresh weight of plant 132.04 gm, Length of root 23.75 cm, Diameter of root 5.13 cm T7 50% NPK + VC 116.98 gm Showed higher B:C ratio (5.67) compared with the other treatments under Prayagraj Argo-Climatic conditions.
Seed Priming for Enhancement of Seed Quality in Quality Protein Maize (QPM) (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Anusha Reddy A.  , Rupesh Kumar Reddy B.  , Vasundhara S.  , Narasimhulu R.
Published: September 2023

An investigation was carried out with HQPM-5 maize hybrid and its parental lines HKI-163 and HKI-161 seeds during rabi 2022-23 to evaluate the effect of liquid biofertilizers (Azospirillum, Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria and Potassium solubilizing bacteria) on seed quality attributes in Quality Protein Maize (QPM) genotypes. The seeds were subjected to different concentration and duration of hydropriming and biopriming (Concentration: 10,15 and 20%; Duration: 6,12,18 and 24h). The non primed seeds were used as control. HQPM-5 seeds bioprimed with combination of Azospirillum @ 20 % + Phosphorous solubilizing bacteria @ 20 % + Potassium solubilizing bacteria @ 20 % at 12h (T9) recorded higher seed quality i.e., germination, field emergence, root length, shoot length, seedling length, seedling fresh weight, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, seedling dry weight, seed vigour index I & II, nitrogen and protein content and lower EC of seed leachates than the parental lines, HKI-163 and HKI-161. The overall performance of female parent was found to be better compared to the male parent.
Efficacy of Early Foliar Spray Intervention on Alteration of Physiological Efficiencies and Seed Quality Attributes of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.)
Authors: Sundaralingam K.  , Vaideshwari M.  , Umarani R.
Published: September 2023

The present study was focused on the evaluation of foliar spray treatment to arrest the flower drop in order to increase the seed set and seed yield in greengram. The crop of greengram var.CO 8 was raised by adopting the recommended package of practices during rabi season during 2019 and 2020 at Department of Seed Science and Technology, TNAU, Coimbatore. Foliar application of different nutrients viz., Nutrigold 0.50%, ZnSO4 0.10%, Mono ammonium phosphate 2%, as treatments were sprayed at bud initiation (30 days after sowing) and 7 days after flowering stages. Pulse wonder @ 5 kg ha‑1 was sprayed during peak flowering stage. Unsprayed plots served as control. During the investigations, data on flower production, arresting of flower drop, seed set, seed filling, seed yield and quality of greengram were recorded and studied.

In the study, significant variations were observed due to the foliar applications. Days to 50 per cent flowering, number of flowers per plant, number of pods per plant, conversion efficiency percentage, pod yield ha-1and seed yield ha-1were significantly higher with foliar spray of Nutrigold 0.50% applied at bud initiation and 7 days later which was on par with Pulse wonder @ 5 kg ha‑1 applied during peak flowering stage. The percentage of flower drop was less in Nutrigold 0.50%(39.69%) which was on par with Pulse wonder @ 5 kg ha‑1 (41.04%) when compared to control (52.02%). Seed quality parameters such as seed recovery, 100 seed weight, seed germination and vigour of seedlings were significantly higher in foliar spray of Nutrigold 0.50% when compared to other treatments.

From this study, it could be concluded that the foliar application of Nutrigold 0.50% during bud initiation and 7 days after flowering or Pulse Wonder @ 5kg/ ha during peak flowering could be effectively applied to maximize the flower production, arrest the flower drop and to improve the seed yield and quality in greengram.
Survey of Frontier Technological Approaches to Mitigate Climate Change
Authors: Bushnell Dennis M.
Published: September 2023

Climate change with its’ increasingly serious and wide spectrum adverse impacts is the Issue of the Age. Climate change impacts have advanced to where mitigation solutions are now required for CO2 removal from the atmosphere along with planetary albedo/ other safe geoengineering approaches in addition to ever lower cost green energy generation and energy storage/ conversion/ conservation/ efficiency. There are extensive ongoing efforts involving all of these climate mitigation approaches. This work is a survey of additional frontier technologies, concepts and alternatives not yet deployed or nascent which could greatly augment the ongoing climate mitigation efforts across the spectrum. Particularly potentially efficacious approaches wrt cost and effectiveness include Halophytes, LENR, high altitude wind, geothermal utilizing abandoned oil and gas wells, ocean fertilization, white roofs and white roads and utilization of weak force nuclear batteries to extract the some 85% of the energy still present in nuclear waste.
Home Management Practices among Caregivers on Malaria Treatment in Primary Healthcare Centre Amansea, Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Umeanaeto P. U. , Adione C. M. , Afulukwe S. C. , Anumba J. U. , Akulue J. C. , Okwelogu I. S. , Irikannu K. C.
Published: September 2023

Malaria is a major cause of fever in children. When a child has fever, parents or caregivers commonly treat them as if they were affected by malaria, with available medicines at home, with or without proper information or guideline. This study was carried out to explore the effectiveness of the various home management practices on malaria treatment among caregivers in Primary Health Care Center Amansea, Awka North L.G.A, Anambra State between May and August 2021. Mothers and caregivers (N=200) visiting the facility and their children (N=200) were involved. Blood specimens were collected through venipuncture and analyzed by microscopy while data on management practices were collected using pretested, structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 25.0. Mothers and caregivers had good knowledge of the correct cause (70.0%), symptoms (63.0%) and preventive measures (53.5%) of malaria. Sources of medical treatment ranged from doctors (43.0%) to herbalist (13.5%) and 80% of them seek medical treatment within 24 hours of onset of fever. Caregivers preference of home treatment of malaria to hospital is greatly influenced by a lot of reasons with high cost of hospital bills (53.5%) being the highest reason among many. Prevalence of malaria among the mothers and caregivers was 36(18.0%) which was dependent on their age (X2=44.629, df=3, P=0.000) and educational status but not with occupation. However, malaria prevalence among the children was 50(25%) even though it was not significant in relation to age and sex of the children (P>0.05). The effectiveness of home management of malaria depends on the early diagnosis, prompt and appropriate use of health facilities for treatment of malaria symptom especially fever. Therefore, health programmes and special campaigns to enlighten mothers and caregivers on more of the dangers of delayed treatment for their children could help to improve their treatment seeking pattern.
Prevalence of Postpartum Depression and Associated Factors among the Postpartum Mothers in Vijayanagar District, Karnataka, India
Authors: Sunitha N. H.  , Muktamath Vinutha U.
Published: September 2023

Postpartum depression is most common public problem which occurs during postpartum period. If it was unrecognized and undiagnosed it may affect the health of the mother. With this present study was designed to study the prevalence of postpartum depression and identify the influence of selected demographic, personal and child factors on postpartum depression. A differential design was used to compare mothers with postpartum depression and mothers without postpartum depression during postpartum period. A convenient sample of 164 postpartum mothers were selected randomly in the Viajayanagar district of Karnataka state. A self- structured interview schedule to elicit the demographic information and personal characteristics about mother and the infant was used. Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) by Cox et al. [1] and Socio-Economic Status (SES) by Aggarwal et al. (2005) were also used for the study. The results of the study revealed that overall prevalence rate postpartum depression was 42.70 per cent (70 out of 164). Mothers between 31 to 35 years had higher odds of risk (OR=3.02, 95%CI =0.1.18, 7.68) of having postpartum depression and mothers between 25 to 30 years had (OR=0.77, 95%CI =0.36, 1.66) 0.77 times risk of having postpartum depression. There was a significant association found between age of the mother and postpartum depression. The factors associated with postpartum depression were age of the mother, mothers age at marriage, number of years of marriage, occupation of the mother, size of the family, gender of the infant, mode of breast feeding and age and birth weight of the child. There is a need to design the suitable intervention programmes to eliminate the such contributory factors which can substantially help to improve the emotional well-being of women in the vulnerable postnatal period.
The Pluralist Economy in Africa: A Study of the Relationship between Economic Complexity and the Life Ladder
Authors: Nguepi Nelson Derrick , Nguefack Nadia Demgang , Petnga Ruth Dzokou
Published: September 2023

This study finds a significant correlation between economic complexity and the life ladder in Africa, using data from the World Development Indicators (2022), World Happiness Report (2023) and Observatory of Economic Complexity (2023) over the period 2000 to 2021. The FGLS estimation method shows that economic complexity has a positive impact on the life ladder of African populations. These findings underscore the importance of governments implementing economic policies that prioritise the strengthening of economic complexity, thereby promoting the life ladder of individuals in Africa. Key measures to achieve this goal include promoting economic diversification, investing in education and training, encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation, promoting regional integration, improving infrastructure and technological accessibility, and establishing robust social protection systems. The adoption and implementation of these policies will be critical to increasing the overall life ladder of Africa's population while promoting sustainable economic development.
Hidden Fatal ECG Manifestations
Authors: Xu Liugang , Wang Yajun , Liu Hailei
Published: September 2023

This case report presents the electrocardiogram findings of a patient in their 50s with syncope and palpitation and amaurosis followed by loss of consciousness for several minutes without preceding position change, cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
Policies of US Companies Offering Direct-to-Consumer Laboratory Tests
Authors: Kalokairinou Louiza , Choi Rebekah , Wei Nina (Yichen) , Wexler Anna
Published: September 2023

This qualitative study assesses the practices and policies of companies offering direct-to-consumer laboratory testing in the US.
Economic Burden of US Youth Violence Injuries
Authors: Peterson Cora , Parker Elizabeth M. , D’Inverno Ashley S. , Haileyesus Tadesse
Published: September 2023

This economic evaluation study reports the annual economic burden of youth violence injuries using the most recent national data.
Passivity‐based parameterized adaptive disturbance attenuation controller design for switched polynomial nonlinear systems
Authors: Zhu Huawei , Hou Xiaorong
Published: September 2023

This paper is concerned with the adaptive disturbance attenuation control problem for a class of switched polynomial nonlinear systems. At first, a parameterized controller is designed to transform the switched polynomial nonlinear systems into switched Hamiltonian systems with polynomial structure. Then, combining with the solve‐parameter algorithm described in this paper, a mixed adaptive passivity and H2/H∞ control method is devoted. Comparing with the existing results, the obtained adaptive disturbance attenuation controller has better performance. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Mechanisms of Shock Strength Exhibited by a Nickel‐Rich Nickel‐Titanium‐Hafnium Alloy
Authors: Knapp Tyler , Amin-Ahmadi Behnam , Turnage Scott , Mills Sean H. , Thadhani Naresh N. , Noebe Ronald D. , Williams Cyril L. , Stebner Aaron P.
Published: September 2023

Nickel‐rich NiTiHf alloys that are heat treated to strengthen the microstructures with a dense distribution of Ni4Ti3 nanoprecipitates exhibit very high strengths and good quasi‐static indentation resistance and rolling contact fatigue performances. To determine whether these properties are maintained at high rates of loading, in situ and recovery flyer plate impact shock experiments are performed on a Ni54Ti45Hf1 alloy at impact velocities ranging from approximately 150 m s−1 (2.5 GPa) to 700 m s−1 (12.40 GPa). Analysis of shocked samples indicated less cracking is observed to emanate from spall failures resulting from impact velocities greater than 250 m s−1 (4.23 GPa), concurrent with observations of intragranular microbands within the microstructures. Analyses show clear evidence that, like responses to quasi‐static loading, martensitic phase transformation occurs upon shock compression in all cases. However, dissimilarly, for the higher impact velocities it reverses upon stress release, leaving behind microbands that show no evidence for retained martensite and within which the Ni4Ti3 nanoprecipitates dissolved. These results indicate that strain‐rate dependence of these SMAs under shock loading is not only governed by the expected physics of rate‐dependence of the martensitic transformations themselves but may also be enhanced by inelastic deformation mechanisms that result in precipitate dissolution.
Highly Stable Ladder‐Type Conjugated Polymer Based Organic Electrochemical Transistors for Low Power and Signal Processing‐Free Surface Electromyogram Triggered Robotic Hand Control
Authors: Zhou Zhongliang , Wu Xihu , Tam Teck Lip Dexter , Tang Cindy G. , Chen Shuai , Hou Kunqi , Li Ting , He Qiang , Sit Ji‐Jon , Xu Jianwei , Leong Wei Lin
Published: September 2023

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) based complementary inverters have been considered as promising candidates in electrophysiological amplification, owing to their low power consumption, and high gain. To create complementary inverters, it is important to use highly stable p‐type and n‐type polymers with well‐balanced current. In this study, the electrochemical stability of p‐type ladder‐conjugated polymer‐based OECT is improved through an annealing process that maintains its doped‐state drain current from 76% to 105% after 4,500 cycles in ambient environment. Next an OECT‐based complementary inverter made from p‐type and n‐type ladder‐conjugated polymers (PBBTL and BBL) that possess ultra‐low power consumption (≈170 nW), high gain (67 V/V), and high noise margin (92%) with full rail‐to‐rail swing, is presented. Furthermore, its potential for amplifying the envelope of surface electromyography (EMG) for robotic hand control is demonstrated. The high variation in the output (0.35 V) allows the amplified EMG signals to be directly captured by a commercial analog‐to‐digital converter, which in turn controls the robot hand to grasp different objects with low delay and low noise. These results demonstrate the capability of OECT inverter‐based amplifier in future signal processing‐free human‐machine interface, particularly useful for prosthetic control and gesture control applications.
Over 18% Efficiency Ternary Organic Solar Cells with 300 nm Thick Active Layer Enabled by an Oligomeric Acceptor
Authors: Wei Yanan , Cai Yunhao , Gu Xiaobin , Yao Guo , Fu Zhen , Zhu Yuxuan , Yang Junfang , Dai Junpeng , Zhang Jianqi , Zhang Xin , Hao Xiaotao , Lu Guanghao , Tang Zheng , Peng Qian , Zhang Chunfeng , Huang Hui
Published: September 2023

The development of high‐efficiency thickness‐insensitive organic solar cells (OSCs) is crucially important for the mass production of solar panels. However, increasing the active layer thickness usually induces a substantial loss in efficiency. Herein, a ternary strategy in which an oligomer DY‐TF is incorporated into PM6:L8‐BO system as a guest component is adopted to break this dilemma. The S···F intramolecular noncovalent interactions in the backbone endow DY‐TF with a high planarity. Upon the addition of DY‐TF, the crystallinity of the blend is effectively improved, leading to increased charge carrier mobility, which is highly desirable in the fabrication of thick‐film devices. As a result, thin‐film PM6:L8‐BO:DY‐TF‐based device (110 nm) shows a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.13%. Impressively, when the active layer thickness increases to 300 nm, an efficiency of 18.23% (certified as 17.8%) is achieved, representing the highest efficiency reported for 300 nm thick OSCs thus far. Additionally, blade‐coated thick device (300 nm) delivers a promising PCE of 17.38%. This work brings new insights into the construction of efficient OSCs with high thickness tolerance, showing great potential for roll‐to‐roll printing of large‐area solar cells.
Free‐Boundary Microfluidic Platform for Advanced Materials Manufacturing and Applications
Authors: Zhu Zhiqiang , Chen Tianao , Huang Fangsheng , Wang Shiyu , Zhu Pingan , Xu Ronald X. , Si Ting
Published: September 2023

Microfluidics, with its remarkable capacity to manipulate fluids and droplets at the microscale, has emerged as a powerful platform in numerous fields. In contrast to conventional closed microchannel microfluidic systems, free‐boundary microfluidic manufacturing (FBMM) processes continuous precursor fluids into jets or droplets in a relatively spacious environment. FBMM is highly regarded for its superior flexibility, stability, economy, usability, and versatility in the manufacturing of advanced materials and architectures. In this review, a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in FBMM is provided, encompassing technical principles, advanced material manufacturing, and their applications. FBMM is categorized based on the foundational mechanisms, primarily comprising hydrodynamics, interface effects, acoustics, and electrohydrodynamic. The processes and mechanisms of fluid manipulation are thoroughly discussed. Additionally, the manufacturing of advanced materials in various dimensions ranging from zero‐dimensional to three‐dimensional, as well as their diverse applications in material science, biomedical engineering, and engineering are presented. Finally, current progress is summarized and future challenges are prospected. Overall, this review highlights the significant potential of FBMM as a powerful tool for advanced materials manufacturing and its wide‐ranging applications.
Self‐Rolled‐Up Ultrathin Single‐Crystalline Silicon Nanomembranes for On‐Chip Tubular Polarization Photodetectors
Authors: Wu Binmin , Zhang Ziyu , Zheng Zhi , Cai Tianjun , You Chunyu , Liu Chang , Li Xing , Wang Yang , Wang Jinlong , Li Hongbin , Song Enming , Cui Jizhai , Huang Gaoshan , Mei Yongfeng
Published: September 2023

Freestanding single‐crystalline nanomembranes and their assembly have broad application potential in photodetectors for integrated chips. However, the release and self‐assembly process of single‐crystalline semiconductor nanomembranes still remains a great challenge in on‐chip processing and functional integration, and photodetectors based on nanomembrane always suffer from limited absorption of nanoscale thickness. Here, a non‐destructive releasing and rolling process is employed to prepare tubular photodetectors based on freestanding single‐crystalline Si nanomembranes. Spontaneous release and self‐assembly are achieved by residual strain introduced by lattice mismatch at the epitaxial interface of Si and Ge, and the intrinsic stress and strain distributions in self‐rolled‐up Si nanomembranes are analyzed experimentally and computationally. The advantages of light trapping and wide‐angle optical coupling are realized by tubular geometry. This Si microtube device achieves reliable Ohmic contact and exhibits a photoresponsivity of over 330 mA W−1, a response time of 370 µs, and a light incident detection angle range of over 120°. Furthermore, the microtubular structure shows a distinct polarization angle‐dependent light absorption, with a dichroic ratio of 1.24 achieved at 940 nm. The proposed Si‐based microtubes provide new possibilities for the construction of multifunctional chips for integrated circuit ecosystems in the More than Moore era.
Conducting Polymer Coatings Prepared by Mixed Emulsions Are Highly Conductive and Stable in Water
Authors: Zhang Guogao , Chen Zheqi , Ahn Christine Heera , Suo Zhigang
Published: September 2023

An aqueous emulsion of conducting polymer is commonly applied on a substrate to form a coating after drying. The coating, however, disintegrates in water. This paper reports a coating prepared using a mixture of two emulsions: an aqueous emulsion of conducting polymer, and an aqueous emulsion of hydrophobic and rubbery chains copolymerized with silane coupling agents. When applied on a substrate and dried, particles of the mixed emulsion merge into a continuous film. While the conducting polymer forms percolated nanocrystals, the silane groups crosslink the rubbery chains and interlink the rubbery chains to the substrate. The percolated nanocrystals make the coating highly conductive. The covalent network of hydrophobic polymer chains stabilizes the coating in water. The high conductivity and stability in water may enable broad applications.
Stimuli‐Responsive Optical Switching Patterns in Millimetric Hydrogel Frames: Nanomaterial‐Free Anti‐Counterfeiting Technology
Authors: Jegatheeswaran Sinthuran , Hwang Dae Kun
Published: September 2023

Stimuli‐responsive materials are employed in numerous on‐demand applications, such as anti‐counterfeiting. Although innovative hybrid spectral/graphical approaches have gained wide attention, they are limited by the need for user training and sophisticated technologies to decode the covert pattern which can be achieved through toxic organic dyes, pigments, up‐conversion crystals, nanoparticles, or self‐assembly of colloidal particles within a hydrogel framework. These approaches also involve a lengthy multistep fabrication that consumes several days. Although optical nanomaterials, which are responsive to external stimuli, such as magnetic field, can undergo a quicker self‐assembly, additional equipment is required to generate external fields and the use of nanomaterials alone limits this technology's wide applicability in consumer goods especially on food or pharmaceuticals. Herein, a nanomaterial‐free technology is demonstrated that utilizes various microscale motifs to display an optical shifting behavior without the need for passive or active assembly of colloidal particles, and any toxic dyes, pigments, or nanomaterials. The optical shifting property is purely induced by hydrogel porous microstructures and resulting light scattering. The slit channel lithography technique makes it easy for users to authenticate products using a simple smartphone device or inverted microscope by validating the optical switching behaviors of motifs embedded in hydrogel frames.
Indoor Positioning and Posture Recognition of Human Body Applying Integrating‐Type Intelligent Metasurfaces Based Sensing System
Authors: Liu Guo Dong , Hu Wang Sheng , Hou Wen Ying , Huang Sheng Jie , Cao Du Ming , Wang Hai Peng , Zhou Yu Xuan , He Fei , Li Yun Bo
Published: September 2023

The electromagnetic (EM) detection and sensing research of human signs are becoming much more attractive, especially with the rise of intelligent metasurface which can strongly enhance the control abilities and functionalities of transmitting and receiving EM fields. It proposes the design of integrating‐type intelligent metasurface to realize the indoor positioning and posture recognition of the human body using the support vector machine algorithm and a new deep learning algorithm model it proposed called MetaNet. The integrating‐type metasurface with the in‐plane feed rather than horn excitation is real low profile, and the varactor based programmable phase shifters achieving 360‐degree cover and continuous control of phase are independently embedded in each unit cell for further synthesized manipulation of apertures. One pair of integrating‐type intelligent metasurfaces are fabricated for transmitting and receiving EM fields, respectively. Also, the corresponding prototype of radar transceiver system is developed and manufactured to rapidly acquire massive data. The total experimental flow can include two main steps that first, the transmitting and receiving beams of metasurfaces should scan dynamically and synchronously under the method of far‐field synthesis for detecting the direction of the human. Second, the transmitting beam should keep the detected direction and the receiving apertures of metasurface should be varied by randomly control the phase shift of each unit cell for multiple sensing. Based on the technology of deep learning to process the massive receiving data, the profile images and key points of various human postures can be reconstructed very well in the measurement that can verify the validity of the proposed sensing system.
Stable All‐Solid‐State Na Batteries Enabled by In Situ Formed Na─B─H─F Electrolyte
Authors: Pang Yuepeng , Zhang Depei , Sun Hao , Li Xin , Xia Shuixin , Yuan Tao , Chen Taiqiang , Yang Junhe , Wang John , Zheng Shiyou
Published: September 2023

All‐solid‐state Na‐ion batteries are considered to be one of the most promising candidates for large‐scale applications at low‐cost. Hydride electrolytes have been pursued as a research hotspot more recently, owing to their high Na‐ion conductivities, while there is an urgent need to address their electrochemical stabilities in order to meet the requirements for applications in Na batteries. Herein, a novel and universal strategy is proposed to improve the electrochemical stabilities of hydride electrolytes, which takes advantage of the in situ reactions between hydrides and NaHF2. As a representative example, Na2B12H12 can react with NaHF2 to form NaF nanoparticles that are uniformly embedded in the Na2B12H11F matrix, which exhibits superior electrode compatibilities without apparent reduction in conductivity. The symmetrical Na cell thus derived shows a long‐term cycling and the quasi‐symmetrical Na3V2(PO4)3 cell shows high Coulombic efficiency. They give rise to a stable cycling of the Na||Na3V2(PO4)3 all‐solid‐state batteries with a capacity retention of 87.7% after 100 cycles, which can be attributed to the stabilization of electrolyte/electrode interfaces by the F‐enriched interphases. Beyond Na batteries, the present study sheds timely new light on the development of hydride electrolytes for other long‐waited applications.
Deciphering the Degradation Mechanism of High‐Rate and High‐Energy‐Density Lithium–Sulfur Pouch Cells
Authors: Cheng Qian , Chen Zi‐Xian , Li Xi‐Yao , Bi Chen‐Xi , Sun Furong , Zhang Xue‐Qiang , Ma Xinzhi , Li Bo‐Quan , Huang Jia‐Qi
Published: September 2023

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are widely regarded as promising next‐generation battery systems due to their impressive theoretical energy density of 2600 Wh kg−1. However, practical high‐energy‐density Li–S pouch cells suffer from rapid performance degradation under high working rates. Herein, the performance degradation mechanism of 400 Wh kg−1 Li–S pouch cells is systematically investigated under a high cycling rate of 0.2 C. Focusing on the reduced specific capacity and increased cell polarization, the sluggish cathodic sulfur redox kinetics under lean‐electrolyte and high‐rate conditions is identified as the main limitation. Further polarization decoupling indicates the cathodic activation polarization contributes dominantly to the increased cell polarization. Accordingly, a delicately designed electrolyte using dimethyl diselenide as the kinetic promoter is proposed to enable the Li–S pouch cells to work at 0.2 C with reduced cell polarization. This work clarifies the sluggish cathodic interfacial charge transfer kinetics as the main challenge for high‐energy‐density Li–S batteries at high rates and is expected to inspire rational strategy design for achieving advanced Li–S batteries.
Assessing Intra‐abdominal status for clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula based on postoperative fluid collection and drain amylase levels after distal pancreatectomy
Authors: Mukai Yosuke , Asukai Kei , Akita Hirofumi , Kubo Masahiko , Hasegawa Shinichiro , Wada Hiroshi , Miyata Hiroshi , Ohue Masayuki , Sakon Masato , Takahashi Hidenori
Published: September 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the intra‐abdominal status related to postoperative pancreatic fistula by combining postoperative fluid collection and drain amylase levels.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 203 patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy and classified their postoperative abdominal status into four groups based on postoperative fluid collection size and drain amylase levels. We also evaluated the incidence of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula in each group according to C‐reactive protein values.

Results

The incidence of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula in the entire cohort (n = 203) was 28.1%. Multivariate analysis revealed that postoperative fluid collection, drain amylase levels, and C‐reactive protein levels are considerable risk factors for clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula. In the subgroup with large postoperative fluid collection and high drain amylase levels, 65.9% of patients developed clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula. However, no significant difference was observed in C‐reactive protein levels between patients with clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula and those without it. In contrast, in the subgroup with a large postoperative fluid collection size or a high amylase level alone, a significant difference was observed in C‐reactive protein values between the patients with clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula and those without it.

Conclusion

Postoperative fluid collection status and the C‐reactive protein value provide a more precise assessment of intra=abdominal status related to postoperative pancreatic fistula after distal pancreatectomy. This detailed analysis may be a clinically reasonable approach to individual drain management.
Health care utilization and costs in the years preceding dementia identification
Authors: Kumar Raj G. , Lund Evan Bollens , Ornstein Katherine A. , Li Jing , Covinsky Kenneth E. , Kelley Amy S.
Published: September 2023

INTRODUCTION

There is evidence that health care utilization increases after incident dementia, particularly after dementia diagnosis and toward the end of life; however, less is known about utilization in the years before dementia identification.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study we obtained data on n = 5547 beneficiaries from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS)‐Medicare linked sample (n = 1241 with and n = 4306 without dementia) to compare longitudinal trends in health care costs and utilization in the 6 years preceding dementia identification relative to a confounder‐balanced reference group without dementia.

RESULTS

We found that persons with dementia had a greater prevalence of outpatient emergency department (ED), inpatient hospital, skilled nursing, and home health use, and total health care costs in the years preceding dementia identification compared to their similar counterparts without dementia across a comparable timespan in later life.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence to suggest greater healthcare burden may exist well before clinical manifestation and identification of dementia.

Highlights

Several studies have documented the tremendous healthcare‐related costs of living with dementia, particularly toward the end of life.

Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, which, for some, includes a prolonged pre‐clinical phase. However, health services research to date has seldom considered the time before incident dementia.

This study documents that health care utilization and costs are significantly elevated in the years before incident dementia relative to a demographically‐similar comparison group without dementia.
Interplay of curing and thermal degradation in epoxy resins cured with amino acids: Influence of the maximum curing temperature on the network structure, crystal morphology and mechanical properties
Authors: Rothenhäusler Florian , Ruckdaeschel Holger
Published: September 2023

Bio‐based alternatives for epoxy resin curing agents are a necessity for fiber reinforced polymer composites to become more sustainable. Here, the precise knowledge about the optimal curing cycle and its influence on the thermoset's mechanical properties are imperative. Therefore, the influence of the maximum curing temperature on the network structure, crystal morphology and mechanical properties of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) cured with l‐arginine was investigated with the goal to derive structure–property relationships and a favorable curing cycle. The maximum curing temperature used can be categorized into two regimes: first, the temperature range in which the thermoset reaches complete curing and second, the temperature regime in which the thermoset is fully cured and the thermal degradation starts to diminish its mechanical properties. An optimized curing regimen for achieving high flexural strength accompanied by adequate fracture toughness entails subjecting the material to a curing cycle comprising a duration of 1 h at a temperature of 150°C, followed by an additional 2 h at a temperature of 170°C. This study represents a pioneering effort in optimizing the curing process of amino acid‐cured epoxy resin, specifically focusing on achieving the most favorable mechanical properties as a result.
Non‐zero‐sum differential games of delayed backward doubly stochastic systems and their application
Authors: Xu Jie , Zhang Rui , Lin Ruiqiang
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we investigate the non‐zero‐sum differential game problem based on the delayed backward doubly stochastic differential equation. We discuss the case where the controlled system contains time‐delayed variables, and the time‐delayed variables are different. We construct a new kind of adjoint equation consisting of a doubly stochastic differential equation and three simple differential equations. Under appropriate premises for such equations, we deduce a stochastic maximum principle as a necessary condition and a verification theorem for the Nash equilibrium point by using the duality method and convex variation technique. As an application, we apply our result to a linear delayed backward doubly stochastic non‐zero‐sum game problem to verify the effectiveness of our results.
Preperitoneal vas deferens infiltration in high‐risk prostate cancer
Authors: Gözen Ali Serdar , Koudonas Antonios , Senel Samet , Colecchia Maurizio , Rassweiler Jens
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The objective of this study is to evaluate the prevalence and the importance of preperitoneal vas deferens (VD) infiltration in high‐risk prostate cancer (PCa).

Patients and Methods

In this prospectively designed study, we included 332 high‐risk PCa patients with a Briganti score >5%, who were treated by robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy between July 2017 and February 2022 at the Urology Department, SLK Kliniken Heilbronn. In addition to the standard histological analysis of the distal VD, which was attached to the prostate specimen, we analysed the infiltration status of preperitoneal VD in this cohort. The preperitoneal VD, which represents the middle part of ductus deferens and extends between the internal inguinal ring and obturator fossa, was resected during extended pelvic lymphadenectomy. Distal and preperitoneal VD status was registered together with preoperative and postoperative disease characteristics. Descriptive analysis methods and logistic regression analysis were used.

Results

Briganti score of the target cohort had a median value of 19%, while 235 patients (70.8%) of the group demonstrated a locally advanced disease. The Grade Group at prostatectomy specimen was at least 3 for 286 patients (86.1%). Distal VD infiltration was found in 20 patients (6%) and preperitoneal VD infiltration in two patients (0.6%). Distal VD infiltration was not associated with an increased possibility for positive surgical margins or nodal status among pT3b patients, while both patients with preperitoneal VD infiltration were characterized by highly aggressive disease in locally advanced stage and bilateral distal VD infiltration.

Conclusions

PCa extension along VD may reach a more proximal point of VD than the reported from the existing data infiltration of VD adjacent to seminal vesicles. This rare manifestation of PCa local extension may be the intermediate step to the rare cases of recurrence in the testicles. However, more robust data are needed to confirm the aforementioned hypothesis. Distal VD infiltration seems to have no additional prognostic value among patients with infiltrated seminal vesicles.