bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sulfomucins in Helicobacter pylori–Associated Chronic Gastritis in Children: Is This Incipient Intestinal Metaplasia?
Authors: Cohen Marta C , Rúa Eduardo Cueto , Balcarce Norma , Drut Ricardo
Published: February 2024

Background:

Little is known about early stages of intestinal metaplastic in chronic gastritis. The purpose of this study was to determine the presence of sulfated mucosubstances hence most probably intestinal metaplasia, in isolated cells of surface gastric pits, and glands in pediatric patients with Helicobacter pylori–associated chronic gastritis.

Methods:

Participants were nine patients (nine different biopsies; mean age 11.5 years, range 3–16 years) with sulfomucin‐containing cells evident in the gastric biopsy specimen. Eight of the patients were selected from a group of 15 patients with histologically documented H. pylori–associated chronic gastritis in whom the utility of the Sydney system was being tested.

Results:

Symptoms and endoscopic findings of H. pylori–associated chronic gastritis were the same regardless of the presence or absence of sulfomucin‐containing cells. On hematoxylin and eosin stained tissues, neither intestinal metaplasia nor atrophy was apparent. However, periodic acid‐Schiff (PAS)–alcian blue (pH 1.0) stain revealed the presence of sulfated mucosubstances in isolated cells of gastric pits and glands in the nine patients.

Conclusions:

This finding may represent a “minimal” form of incomplete intestinal metaplasia (type III). Because the nine patients had been untreated, the change is probably reversible. Two follow‐up biopsies in patients in whom H. pylori had been treated and eradicated showed absence of sulfated mucins. Although these findings cannot be regarded as fully developed type III intestinal metaplasia, it is possible that left untreated, the alteration may persist and evolve into some other complication. This conclusion justifies follow‐up of these patients.
Enteral Nutrition and Corticosteroids in the Treatment of Acute Crohn's Disease in Children
Authors: Heuschkel Robert B , Menache Caroline C , Megerian Thomas J. , Baird Alison E
Published: February 2024

Background:

The optimal treatment of acute Crohn's disease in children remains controversial. In adults, steroid therapy has been shown to be superior to exclusive enteral nutrition. However, enteral nutrition is effective at inducing a remission in many children with acute Crohn's disease. Steroid usage in children has been associated with adverse side effects, particularly with delayed growth and pubertal development.

Methods:

Randomized clinical trials comparing exclusive enteral nutrition with corticosteroids were identified. Two independent reviewers extracted data from selected studies. Studies were assessed for heterogeneity and relative risks for remission induction with enteral nutrition were obtained. Sensitivity analyses were performed in partially randomized studies. Estimates were made of the number of studies needed to overturn the current result. Other outcome measures were qualitatively assessed.

Results:

In five randomized clinical trials comprising 147 patients, enteral nutrition was as effective as corticosteroids at inducing a remission (RR = 0.95 [95% confidence interval 0.67, 1.34]). Addition of two further nonrandomized trials did not significantly alter the result. A minimum of 10 further studies, equal in size and outcome to the largest reported pediatric trial to date (n = 68, RR = 0.84), would be required to demonstrate a significant benefit of steroid therapy over enteral nutrition.

Conclusions:

There is no difference in efficacy between enteral nutrition and corticosteroid therapy in the treatment of acute Crohn's disease in children. Improved growth and development, without the side effects of steroid therapy, make enteral nutrition a better choice for first‐line therapy in children with active Crohn's disease.
Euro‐Growth References for Breast‐Fed Boys and Girls: Influence of Breast‐Feeding and Solids on Growth Until 36 Months of Age
Authors: Haschke Ferdinand , van't Hof Martin A. ,   theEuro‐Growth StudyGroup
Published: February 2024

Background:

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breast‐feeding during the first 4 to 6 months of life, but limited information is available regarding the growth performance of infants fed according to the recommendation. The present study used data from the Euro‐Growth study to determine the growth of breast‐fed European infants who did or did not receive solids from an early age, in comparison with growth of infants who were fed by other modes.

Methods:

There were 319 infants who were exclusively breast‐fed according to the WHO recommendations for at least 4 to 5 months, and 185 infants who were breast fed but received solids (but no formula) from an early age. There were 1509 infants who were fed in a variety of ways, which included breast‐feeding during the early months of life in the majority (65%) of infants. Anthropometric data were available from birth to 36 months of age. Growth of the two groups of breast‐fed infants was assessed by comparing z‐scores of length, weight, and body mass index with those of the group fed by other means. Furthermore, multiple regression analysis was used to assess the influence on increment in length and weight of the duration of breast‐feeding and the age at which solids were introduced. Euro‐Growth references for breast‐fed boys and girls were developed and compared with the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS)‐WHO and Euro‐Growth references.

Results:

The pattern of growth of children who were fed according to the WHO recommendations showed higher weight during the first 2 to 3 months of life and lower weight and length from 6 to 12 months. Between 12 and 36 months of age, differences between groups were small and clinically nonrelevant. Duration of breast‐feeding was negatively correlated with increment in length and weight until 12 and 24 months but not until 36 months of age. The influence of duration of breast‐feeding was much weaker than that of mid‐parental height. The mean and standard deviation z‐scores of the Euro‐Growth references for weight of breast‐fed infants deviate substantially from the NCHS‐WHO references during the first 6 months of life in particular. The mean and standard deviation z‐scores for length and weight of breast‐fed children were close to the Euro‐Growth references.

Conclusion:

The Euro‐Growth references may be used to monitor length, weight, body mass index, and body circumferences of children who are fed according to WHO recommendations. The additional references, which were developed for breast‐fed boys and girls, will be useful in view of the commitment of WHO to the collection of data for the development of a new international growth reference.
Immunolocalization of apelin receptor (APJ) in mouse seminiferous epithelium
Authors: Das Milirani , Gurusubramanian Guruswami , Roy Vikas K.
Published: February 2024

The apelin receptor (APJ) belongs to the member of the G protein‐coupled receptor family, and expression of APJ has been reported in the different cell types of testis. The seminiferous tubules in the testis can be identified as different stages (I–XII). It has been also suggested that different factors could be expressed in stage and cell‐specific manner in the seminiferous tubules. Recently, we also shown that expression of APJ is developmentally regulated in the testis from PND1 to PND42. Therefore, we analyzed the expression of APJ in the testis of adult mice by immunohistochemistry. Immunohistochemistry showed that the APJ was highly specific for the round and elongated spermatids with stage‐dependent changes. The seminiferous tubules at stages I–VII showed APJ immunostaining in the spermatid steps 1–8, not steps of 13–16. The seminiferous tubules at stages IX–XII showed APJ immunostaining in the spermatid steps 9–12. These results suggested the possible role of APJ in the spermiogenesis process. The intratesticular administration of APJ antagonist, ML221 showed a few round spermatids in the seminiferous tubules and some of the tubules with complete absence of round spermatid. Overall, we present evidence that APJ expression in spermatid is dependent on the stages of the seminiferous epithelium cycle and APJ could be involved in the differentiation of round spermatid to elongated spermatid.
Measuring youth empowerment: An application to Tunisia
Authors: Goedhuys Micheline , Grimm Michael , Meysonnat Aline , Nillesen Eleonora , Reitmann Ann‐Kristin
Published: February 2024

Youth empowerment has become a growing concern for achieving sustainable development worldwide. Yet, there is limited evidence on which domains of empowerment are important for youth and how they can be operationalized with indicators for measurement. We propose four domains of youth empowerment with corresponding indicators and use a well‐established methodology for constructing a composite index. Using data from a household survey in Tunisia, we assess youth empowerment in the proposed domains and explore their relation to youth well‐being. The proposed approach can help monitor youth empowerment in various contexts and evaluate the effectiveness of youth interventions.
Analytical model for the drain and gate currents in silicon nanowire and nanosheet MOS transistors valid between 300 and 500 K
Authors: Cerdeira Antonio , Estrada Magali , de Souza Michelly , Pavanello Marcelo A.
Published: February 2024

This work presents an analytical model for the drain and gate currents of silicon nanowire and nanosheet MOS transistors valid in all operating regions in the temperature range from 300 to 500 K. Analytical models for the tunneling components as well as for the reversely biased drain‐to‐channel PN junction are presented. Also, the models accounting for the necessary modifications in the silicon physical quantities for high‐temperature operation, such as the maximum carrier mobility, the bandgap, and the intrinsic carrier concentration, are presented. The proposed model uses a single set of parameters, extracted at room temperature, to describe the high‐temperature operation of silicon nanowire MOSFETs. The model is validated with comparisons between modeled and experimental results for devices with different fin widths and operating temperatures, with good agreement.
Pseudomonas fluorescens enriched by Bacillus velezensis containing agricultural waste promotes strawberry growth by microbial interaction in plant rhizosphere
Authors: Wang Qingfeng , Chu Changbin , Zhao Zheng , Wu Shuhang , Zhou Deping
Published: February 2024

Long‐term continuous cropping of strawberry induces soil degradation, which reduces strawberry growth and yield. Agricultural waste and microorganisms have great potential in improving soil health. The aim of this study was to identify the potential mechanisms of Bacillus velezensis containing agricultural waste to improve soil health. Soil that had been cropped continuously for more than 10 years was flooded with water for approximately 28 days. After flooding, agricultural waste fermented with microorganisms was applied to improve soil health. Microbial biofilm formation and rhizosphere colonization were also determined. Different agricultural waste coupled with pre‐flooding resulted in a significant increase of strawberry biomass by 33.0%–98.4% compared with control and changes in soil properties. The application of agricultural waste also significantly increased soil bacterial diversity, with the Shannon index increased by 2.37%–6.11% compared with control, and changed the bacterial community composition. The promotion of plant growth was linked with detectable shifts in the soil bacterial taxa after pre‐flooding and B. velezensis containing agricultural waste usage. Most importantly, random forest and correlated analyses showed that taxa affiliated with Pseudomonas may be important in strawberry growth after treatment. Subsequent bacterial isolation and pot inoculation experiments validated that co‐inoculation of Pseudomonas fluorescens and B. velezensis significantly promoted strawberry growth by 21.7% and 31.4%, respectively, compared with inoculation of only P. fluorescens or only B. velezensis, thus confirming the beneficial effect on strawberry plant growth in continuous cropped soils. Our results also indicate that co‐culture of P. fluorescens and B. velezensis could enhance biofilm formation and rhizosphere colonization, which may be essential in promoting plant growth. B. velezensis containing agricultural waste could stimulate indigenous Pseudomonas and promote plant growth by enhancing biofilm formation and rhizosphere colonization.
River network‐scale drying impacts the spatiotemporal dynamics of greenhouse gas fluxes
Authors: Silverthorn Teresa , López‐Rojo Naiara , Sarremejane Romain , Foulquier Arnaud , Chanudet Vincent , Azougui Abdelkader , del Campo Rubén , Singer Gabriel , Datry Thibault
Published: February 2024

Rivers significantly contribute to global biogeochemical cycles; however, we have a limited understanding of how drying may influence these cycles. Drying fragments river networks, thereby influencing important ecosystem functions such as the processing of carbon and nitrogen, and associated fluxes of greenhouse gases (GHGs) both locally, and at the river network scale. Our objective was to assess, using a network‐scale approach, the lateral, longitudinal, and temporal dynamics of GHG fluxes in a river network naturally fragmented by drying. We used a closed‐loop chamber with automated analyzers to measure carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) fluxes from dry sediments, flowing waters, isolated pools, and riparian soils, along with a suite of environmental variables, over 9 months at 20 sites across a non‐perennial river network in France. Network‐scale drying had a spatial and temporal legacy effect on GHG fluxes. On average, CO2 fluxes were up to 29 times higher from perennial than non‐perennial sites under flowing conditions. At non‐perennial sites, CO2 and N2O fluxes positively covaried with time since rewetting. In addition, CO2 and N2O fluxes at perennial sites positively covaried with the percent of non‐perennial reaches upstream, indicating a spatial effect of drying. GHG fluxes from riparian soil and dry riverbed sediments had markedly different magnitudes and covariates. This research demonstrates that drying not only has a local‐scale impact but also influences GHG fluxes at the network scale, contributing valuable insights for upscaling global riverine GHG estimates.
Non‐Invasive Super‐Resolution Imaging Through Scattering Media Using Object Fluctuation
Authors: Zhu Xiangwen , Sahoo Sujit Kumar , Adamo Giorgio , Tobing Landobasa Y. M. , Zhang Dao Hua , Dang Cuong
Published: February 2024

Introducing super‐resolution techniques to imaging through scattering media potentially revolutionizes the technical analysis for many exotic applications, such as cell structures behind biological tissues. The main challenge is scattering media's inhomogeneous structures, which scramble the light path and create noise‐like speckle patterns, hindering object's visualization even at a low‐resolution level. Here, a computational method is proposed relying on the object's spatial and temporal fluctuation to visualize nanoscale objects through scattering media non‐invasively. Taking advantage of the optical memory effect and multiple frames, the point spreading function (PSF) of scattering media is estimated. Multiple images of fluctuating objects are obtained by deconvolution; then, the super‐resolution image is achieved by computing the higher‐order cumulants. Non‐linearity of high order cumulant significantly suppresses artifacts in the resulting images and enhances resolution by a factor of , where N is the cumulant order. The proof‐of‐concept demonstrates a resolution of 266 nm at the 6th‐order cumulant with numerical aperture (NA) of 0.42, breaking the diffraction limit by a factor of 2.45. An adaptive approach is also demonstrated for imaging through dynamic scattering media. The non‐invasive super‐resolution speckle fluctuation imaging (NISFFI) presents a nanoscopy technique with straightforward imaging hardware configuration to visualize samples behind scattering media.
Testing and evaluation on friction surfacing of Alloy 36 over spheroidal graphite iron and its effect on coating thickness and width using artificial neural networks and response surface methodology
Authors: Rathinam G. S. N. , Manickajothi G. , Ezhil E. D. V. , Sundaram M. , Devarajan Y.
Published: February 2024

Friction surfacing finds its application in areas which require joining of dissimilar metals with superior wear property. The current work investigates the solid‐state coating of Alloy 36 over ductile cast iron (SG Iron) by friction surfacing process. The effect of process factors on the actual geometry of the coating was investigated through testing and a desirability‐based technique. Spindle speed, axial force, and table traverse speed were the three most important variables for bonding fidelity. Analysis of variance was used to examine how the input parameters affected the output parameters. Experimental findings are validated using artificial neural networks and response surface methodology which are then used to predict how the system will respond to various operating scenarios. The research demonstrates that speed, rather than force or traverse action, has a more substantial effect on both materials. The response surface methodology statistician approach was utilized to identify the most important factors influencing the process parameters. As a result, the load is determined as the most crucial component that impacts bonding to the substrate. According to the data, the output parameters have the most impact on lowering the bonding geometry.
Determination of natural frequencies of non‐uniform aluminum beams coated with functionally graded material
Authors: Pekel H. , Erdurcan E. F.
Published: February 2024

The present study comprises a numerical analysis used to find the dimensionless natural frequencies of non‐uniform aluminum beams coated with functionally graded material. The beams have variable width, and their variation is described by exponential and linear functions. While the coating material properties vary with a polynomial function, the lamination theory is used to calculate the overall properties of the functionally graded material coating. The beam is modeled as a modified Timoshenko beam and the gradual transition of the coating material properties as 25 layers of homogeneous isotropic material. In order to find the natural frequencies of the beam, finite element analysis was used, and the numerical results were processed with MATLAB, which were in good agreement with literature values. A parametric study is performed to study the effects of slenderness (L/H), coating thickness (h/H), skewness rate (S) and taper ratio (w2/w1) on the dimensionless natural frequencies. The study showed that tapering and skewing had a limited effect on the natural frequencies in general, however there exists a critical slenderness for every taper ratio and skewness rate where shape variation has a significant effect on the natural frequencies and should be considered.
Genetic susceptibility to prostate cancer in Taiwan: A genome‐wide association study
Authors: Bau Da‐Tian , Tsai Chia‐Wen , Chang Wen‐Shin , Yang Jai‐Sing , Liu Ting‐Yuan , Lu Hsing‐Fang , Wang Yu‐Wen , Tsai Fuu‐Jen
Published: February 2024

We conducted the first genome‐wide association study (GWAS) of prostate cancer (PCa) in Taiwan with 1844 cases and 80,709 controls. Thirteen independent single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) reached genome‐wide significance (p < 5 × 10−8). Among these, three were distinct from previously identified loci: rs76072851 in CORO2B gene (15q23), odds ratio (OR) = 1.54, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.36–1.76, p = 5.30 × 10−11; rs7837051, near two long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) genes, PRNCR1 and PCAT2 (8q24.21), OR = 1.41 (95% CI, 1.31–1.51), p = 8.77 × 10−21; and rs56339048, near an lncRNA gene, CASC8 (8q24.21), OR = 1.25 (95% CI, 1.16–1.35), p = 2.14 × 10−8. We refined the lead SNPs for two previously identified SNPs in Taiwanese: rs13255059 (near CASC8), p = 9.02 × 10−43, and rs1456315 (inside PRNCR1), p = 4.33 × 10−42. We confirmed 35 out of 49 GWAS‐identified East Asian PCa susceptibility SNPs. In addition, we identified two SNPs more specific to Taiwanese than East Asians: rs34295433 in LAMC1 (1q25.3) and rs6853490 in PDLIM5 (4q22.3). A weighted genetic risk score (GRS) was developed using the 40 validated SNPs and the area under the receiver‐operating characteristic curve for the GRS to predict PCa was 0.67 (95% CI, 0.63–0.71). These identified SNPs provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of prostate carcinogenesis in Taiwan and underscore the significant role of genetic susceptibility in regional differences in PCa incidence.
GOLPH3 promotes tumor malignancy via inhibition of ferroptosis by upregulating SLC7A11 in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Yin Zheng , Liu Qi , Gao Ying , Wang Ruizhi , Qi Yunling , Wang Dong , Chen Lianzhou , Yin Xiaoyu , He Meifang , Li Wen
Published: February 2024

Golgi phosphoprotein 3 (GOLPH3) has been reported as an oncogene in various tumors; however, the role and function of GOLPH3 and its relevant molecular mechanism in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) are unclear. Herein, GOLPH3 expression in CCA tissues was observed to be significantly higher than that in paired adjacent noncancerous tissues. Clinicopathological analysis showed that GOLPH3 expression correlated positively with the tumor‐node‐metastasis stage. In addition, GOLPH3 expression correlated inversely with the overall survival of patients with CCA. Multivariate analysis showed that GOLPH3 was an independent prognostic factor for patients with CCA. Transcriptome analysis (RNA sequencing) of GOLPH3 knockdown cells showed that the expression levels of nine ferroptosis‐related genes were significantly changed, indicating the important biological function of GOLPH3 in ferroptosis in CCA cells. Furthermore, GOLPH3 knockdown could significantly promote Erastin‐induced ferroptosis in vitro and suppress tumor growth in vivo. Overexpression of GOLPH3 had the opposite effect on this phenotype. Further studies revealed that GOLPH3 knockdown was significantly associated with a decrease in cysteine content, an accumulation of the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde, an increase in reactive oxygen species, and sensitized CCA cells to Erastin‐induced ferroptosis. Moreover, changes in GOLPH3 expression were found to be consistent with the expression of light chain subunit solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11). Thus, our study suggested that GOLPH3 functions as an oncoprotein in CCA and may suppress ferroptosis by facilitating SLC7A11 expression, suggesting that GOLPH3 could serve as a therapeutic target for CCA treatment.
Human Metabolism and Excretion of Kawakawa (Piper excelsum) Leaf Chemicals
Authors: Jayaprakash Ramya , Pook Chris , Ramzan Farha , Miles‐Chan Jennifer L. , Mithen Richard F. , Foster Meika
Published: February 2024

Scope

Piper excelsum (kawakawa) has a history of therapeutic use by Māori in Aotearoa New Zealand. It is currently widely consumed as a beverage and included as an ingredient in “functional” food product. Leaves contain compounds that are also found in a wide range of other spices, foods, and medicinal plants. This study investigates the human metabolism and excretion of kawakawa leaf chemicals.

Methods and results

Six healthy male volunteers in one study (Bioavailability of Kawakawa Tea metabolites in human volunteers [BOKA‐T]) and 30 volunteers (15 male and 15 female) in a second study (Impact of acute Kawakawa Tea ingestion on postprandial glucose metabolism in healthy human volunteers [TOAST]) consume a hot water infusion of dried kawakawa leaves (kawakawa tea [KT]). Untargeted Liquid Chromatography‐Tandem Mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) analyses of urine samples from BOKA‐T identified 26 urinary metabolites that are significantly associated with KT consumption, confirmed by the analysis of samples from the independent TOAST study. Seven of the 26 metabolites are also detected in plasma. Thirteen of the 26 urinary compounds are provisionally identified as metabolites of specific compounds in KT, eight metabolites are identified as being derived from specific compounds in KT but without resolution of chemical structure, and five are of unknown origin.

Conclusions

Several kawakawa compounds that are also widely found in other plants are bioavailable and are modified by phase 1 and 2 metabolism.
Structural Impact of Steroidal Glycoalkaloids: Barrier Integrity, Permeability, Metabolism, and Uptake in Intestinal Cells
Authors: Keuter Lucas , Wolbeck Alessa , Kasimir Matthias , Schürmann Lina , Behrens Matthias , Humpf Hans‐Ulrich
Published: February 2024

Scope

Potato tubers represent an essential food component all over the world and an important supplier of carbohydrates, fiber, and valuable proteins. However, besides their health promoting effects, potatoes contain α‐solanine and α‐chaconine, which are toxic steroidal glycoalkaloids (SGAs). Other solanaceous plants like eggplants and tomatoes produce SGAs as well, different in their chemical structure. This study aims to investigate toxic effects (cholinesterase inhibition, membrane, and barrier disruption), permeability, metabolism, and structure–activity relationships of SGAs.

Methods and results

α‐solanine, α‐chaconine, α‐solasonine, α‐solamargine, α‐tomatine, and their respective aglycones solanidine, solasodine, and tomatidine are analyzed using Ellman assay, cellular impedance spectroscopy, cell extraction, and Caco‐2 intestinal model. Additionally, metabolism is analyzed by HPLC‐MS techniques. The study observes dependencies of barrier disrupting potential and cellular uptake on the carbohydrate moiety of SGAs, while permeability and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition are dominated by the steroid backbone. SGAs show low permeabilities across Caco‐2 monolayers in subtoxic concentrations. In contrast, their respective aglycones reveal higher permeabilities, but are extensively metabolized.

Conclusion

Besides structure–activity relationships, this study provides new information on the overall effects of steroidal alkaloids on intestinal cells and closes a gap of knowledge for the metabolic pathway from oral uptake to final excretion.
Wideband miniaturized circularly polarized magnetoelectric dipole antenna array for millimeter‐wave applications
Authors: Meng Wenwen , Sun Yurong , Li Yuanyuan , Xu Juan
Published: February 2024

A wideband and miniaturized circularly polarized (CP) magnetoelectric (ME) dipole antenna is proposed. Two pairs of rotationally symmetric patch structures replace the rectangular structure of the original linearly polarized ME dipole, generating a rotating electric field that results in CP‐radiated waves. And the magnetic dipole is modified to broaden the impedance bandwidth (IBW) and the axial ratio bandwidth (ARBW). Meanwhile，the simple l‐shaped feed structure makes the antenna more compact. To improve the antenna gain, a 2 × 2 CP ME‐dipole antenna array was designed, completed, and measured. The measured results show that the IBW of the antenna array is 41.5% (from 29.2 to 44.5 GHz), and 3 dB ARBW of 26.7% (from 34.7 to 45.4 GHz) has a peak gain of 13.7 dBic.
Primary bladder neck obstruction in men: The importance of urodynamic assessment and cystourethrography in measuring its severity
Authors: El Khoury Joey , Hermieu Nicolas , Chesnel Camille , Xylinas Evanguelos , Teng Maëlys , Ouzaid Idir , Hermieu Jean François , Amarenco Gérard , Hentzen Claire
Published: February 2024

Objective

Primary bladder neck obstruction (PBNO) is a condition primarily affecting young men, characterized by obstruction at the bladder neck, leading to lower urinary tract symptoms. The aim of this study was to identify a correlation between the severity of bladder neck opening impairment and urinary symptoms by means of urodynamic studies.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted in adult males diagnosed with PBNO at a university neurourology department between 2015 and 2022 who underwent voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and pressure‐flow studies. The cohort was divided into two groups: absence of bladder neck opening on VCUG (Group A) and incomplete bladder neck opening (Group B).

Results

Out of the 82 patients with PBNO screened, 53 were included in the analysis. Nocturia was the only symptom more prevalent in Group A (65% in Group A vs. 30% in Group B,p = 0.02) but scores and subscores of the Urinary Symptom Profile questionnaire were not different between groups. In addition, the detrusor pressure at a maximum flow rate (PdetQmax), bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI), and bladder contractility index (BCI) were higher in Group A than in Group B [PdetQmax (A = 93.7 ± 53.7 cmH2O vs. B = 65.7 ± 26.4 cmH2O;p = 0.01)–BOOI (A = 77 ± 58.3 vs. B = 48 ± 25.7;p = 0.03)–BCI (A = 136 ± 51.3 vs. B = 110 ± 41.7;p = 0.04)].

Conclusion

This study demonstrates a significant association between the extent of bladder neck opening impairment observed on VCUG and obstruction and contraction urodynamic parameters, but no association with the severity of urinary symptoms. Future studies should evaluate the predictive value of treatment response and the occurrence of complications based on clinical and urodynamic parameters.
Magnetic resonance fingerprinting‐based myelin water fraction mapping for the assessment of white matter maturation and integrity in typical development and leukodystrophies
Authors: Lancione Marta , Cencini Matteo , Scaffei Elena , Cipriano Emilio , Buonincontri Guido , Schulte Rolf F. , Pirkl Carolin M. , Buchignani Bianca , Pasquariello Rosa , Canapicchi Raffaello , Battini Roberta , Biagi Laura , Tosetti Michela
Published: February 2024

A quantitative biomarker for myelination, such as myelin water fraction (MWF), would boost the understanding of normative and pathological neurodevelopment, improving patients' diagnosis and follow‐up. We quantified the fraction of a rapidly relaxing pool identified as MW using multicomponent three‐dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) to evaluate white matter (WM) maturation in typically developing (TD) children and alterations in leukodystrophies (LDs). We acquired DTI and 3D MRF‐based R1, R2 and MWF data of 15 TD children and 17 LD patients (9 months–12.5 years old) at 1.5 T. We computed normative maturation curves in corpus callosum and corona radiata and performed WM tract profile analysis, comparing MWF with R1, R2 and fractional anisotropy (FA). Normative maturation curves demonstrated a steep increase for all tissue parameters in the first 3 years of age, followed by slower growth for MWF while R1, R2R2 and FA reached a plateau. Unlike FA, MWF values were similar for regions of interest (ROIs) with different degrees of axonal packing, suggesting independence from fiber bundle macro‐organization and higher myelin specificity. Tract profile analysis indicated a specific spatial pattern of myelination in the major fiber bundles, consistent across subjects. LD were better distinguished from TD by MWF rather than FA, showing reduced MWF with respect to age‐matched controls in both ROI‐based and tract analysis. In conclusion, MRF‐based MWF provides myelin‐specific WM maturation curves and is sensitive to alteration due to LDs, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for WM disorders. As MRF allows fast simultaneous acquisition of relaxometry and MWF, it can represent a valuable diagnostic tool to study and follow up developmental WM disorders in children.
Effects of synthesis temperature on structures and properties of epoxidized soybean oil oligomers and starch‐based bioplastics
Authors: Yang Jianlei , Xu Shicai , Ran Xiuzhen , Ching Yern Chee , Sui Xiao , Wei Yunwei
Published: February 2024

The work investigated the synthesis of the oligomers with citric acid (CA) and epoxidized soybean oils (ESO) at various temperatures and the effects of the oligomers on the structures and properties of starch‐based bioplastics. CA was bonded effectively onto ESO via ring‐opening polymerization at 90°C as confirmed by the results of Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and carboxylic group contents of CA‐ESO oligomers (CESO). The oligomers exhibited higher thermal stability than ESO. Regarding starch‐based bioplastics, CESO disrupted the hydrogen bonding interaction within starch molecules and formed the esterification reaction with starch. The bioplastics containing CESO exhibited remarkably higher structural homogeneity and opacity as the synthesis temperatures of CESO increased. However, the thermal properties of the bioplastics with various CESO reduced, which might be due to the decomposition of starch by CESO. The films containing CESO also exhibited lower tensile strength than the film with ESO, which might be related to the decomposition, crosslinking, and plasticization effects of CESO on starch. The bioplastics with CESO exhibited lower degradation due to a more intense interaction of CESO and starch. The study demonstrated the potential of CA as an interfacial linker of starch/ESO‐based bioplastics by adjusting the synthetic temperatures of CESO.
Multifunctionality of MWCNT and TiC hybrid filler silicone composite for energy harvesting and strain sensing
Authors: Manikkavel Amutheesan , Kumar Vineet , Park Sang‐Shin
Published: February 2024

The flexible silicone elastomer‐conductive composite was developed with enhanced energy harvesting and strain sensing. A hybrid nanofiller system with multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and titanium (IV) carbide (TiC) was used as reinforcing agents for the elastomer. The 4 MWCNT +5 TiC composite has 1.34 MPa tensile strength, 136.85% higher than unfilled silicone rubber (SR) matrix. The unfilled sample has a 1.558 MPa compressive modulus, while 4 MWCNT +5 TiC has 3.87 MPa. The machine and finger presses were utilized to test the energy harvesting of the composite. With greater cyclic stability, the 4 MWCNT +5 TiC sample performed exceptionally well in the machine press in the output voltage range of around 120 mV. Among the thumb presses, 2 MWCNT +5 TiC yielded the best results, with a voltage of about 100 mV. The 3 MWCNT +5 TiC sample produced 9044% more energy than the single filler 3 phr MWCNT sample from our previous work. Higher MWCNT content enhanced composite stiffness, making finger pressing harder and decreasing energy output. The strain sensing test on the 4 MWCNT +5 TiC composite showed high gauge factors (GF = 7.532 and 23.944) and good linearity (R2 = 0.909 and 0.939) over a strain range of Δε = 0%–14% and 14%–22%. Silicone composites' mechanical, energy harvesting, and strain sensing performance improved greatly with the MWCNT and TiC hybrid fillers. These composites could be used in self‐powered wearable electronics, machine or structural deformation monitoring, and human motion sensing.

Highlights

A stretchable device was developed with improved energy harvesting and strain sensing.

Rubber composites were fabricated from MWCNTs, TiC hybrid fillers, and SR matrix.

The energy harvesting was 9044% higher for hybrid filler compared to MWCNT as the only filler.

Robust strain sensing properties with a gauge factor of 23.9, linearity of 0.91, and relaxation time of 0.1 s.

The final composites are useful for self‐powered wearable electronics, health monitoring, and human motion sensing.
Photon upconversion assisted ferroelectric photovoltaics: Device configuration with multifaceted influence in augmenting the photovoltaic response of BiFeO3 thin‐film solar cells
Authors: Wani Waseem Ahmad , Gupta Gaurav , Rath Shyama , Venkataraman Harihara , Ramaswamy Kannan
Published: February 2024

This work presents a novel paradigm for upconversion‐assisted ferroelectric photovoltaic devices. The system comprises a ferroelectric active layer (BiFeO3), an upconverter layer (Yb; Er‐doped ZnO), a conductive ITO‐coated glass substrate, and a reflective coating (Al) at the rear end of the glass substrate. The photovoltaic efficiency of the single‐layer BFO was found to be 0.71%. With the prescribed device model, the total solar efficiency of BiFeO3 improved significantly and touched solar conversion efficiency of 2.21%. This model's projection widens the future perspectives of device performance in emerging photovoltaic technology, mainly perovskite‐based solar cells.
Impulse oscillometry assessment of respiratory function in pediatric patients with a history of COVID‐19
Authors: Mercan Adnan , Beşe Simge Atar , Köksal Zeynep Güleç , Kara Soner Sertan , Uysal Pınar , Erge Duygu
Published: February 2024

Objective

While coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is generally considered to exhibit a less severe clinical course in children than in adults, studies have demonstrated that respiratory symptoms can endure for more than 3 months following infection in at least one‐third of pediatric cases. The present study evaluates the respiratory functions of children aged 3–15 years within 3–6 months of their recovery from COVID‐19 using impulse oscillometry (IOS) and compares them with the values of healthy children.

Methods

Included in this prospective cross‐sectional study were 63 patients (patient group) aged 3–15 years who contracted COVID‐19 between December 2021 and May 2022, as well as 57 healthy children as a control group, matched for age and sex. The demographic, clinical, and laboratory data of the patients were recorded, and respiratory function was assessed based on airway resistance (zR5, zR20, R5–20) and reactance (zX5, zX20, reactance area [AX], resonant frequency [Fres]) using an IOS device.

Results

There were no significant differences in the age, weight, height, and body weight z score values of the two groups (p > .05). While the zR5 and R5–20 levels of the patient group were higher (p = .008 and p < .001, respectively) than those of the controls, the zR20, AX, and Fres values did not differ significantly between the groups (p > .05). The parameters indicating the reactance, including zX5 and zX20, were significantly lower in the patient group than in the control group (p = .028 and p < .001, respectively).

Conclusion

Total and peripheral airway resistances were found to be elevated in children who had recovered from COVID‐19 in the preceding 3–6 months.
The effect of Aceria litchii (Keifer) infestation on the surface properties of litchi leaf hosts
Authors: Song Qingkui , Zheng Jianyu , Chen Shengde , Lan Yubin , Li Haifeng , Zeng Liling , Yue Xuejun
Published: February 2024

Abstracts

BACKGROUND

The wettability of target crop surfaces affects pesticide wetting and deposition. The structure and properties of the leaf surface of litchi leaves undergo severe changes after infestation by Aceria litchii (Keifer). The objective of this study was to systematically investigate the surface texture and wettability of litchi leaves infested.

RESULTS

Firstly, the investigation focused on the surface structure and physicochemical properties of litchi leaves infested with Aceria litchii. Subsequently, different levels of Contact Angle (CA) were measured individually on the infested litchi leaves. Lastly, Surface Free Energy (SFE) and its polar and dispersive components were calculated using the Owens‐Wendt‐Rabel‐Kaelble (OWRK) method. The outcomes revealed distinctive 3D surface structures of the erineum at various stages of mycorrhizal growth. At stage NO. 1, the height of the fungus displayed a peaked appearance, with the skewness value indicating a surface characterized by more crests. In contrast, at stages NO. 2 and NO. 3, the surface appeared relatively flat. Furthermore, post‐infestation of litchi leaves, the CA of droplets on the abaxial surface of diseased leaves exhibited an increase, while the SFE value on the abaxial surface of leaves decreased significantly, in contrast to the abaxial surface of healthy leaves.

CONCLUSION

The infestation behavior of Aceria litchii changed the surface structure and chemistry of litchi leaves, which directly affected the CA value of foliar liquids and the SFE value of leaves, changing the surface wettability of litchi leaves from hydrophobic to superhydrophobic. This study provides useful information for improving the wetting and deposition behavior of liquid droplets on the surface of infested leaves. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Modified Electronic Structure of Amorphous Mn–Si–Te for Ovonic Threshold Switch Application: Improved Thermal Stability by the Formation of Mn–Te Bonding
Authors: Saito Kentaro , Hatayama Shogo , Saito Yuta
Published: February 2024

A critical element within the 3D XPoint architecture is the Ovonic threshold switch (OTS) material, which serves a crucial role as a selector. The development of novel OTS materials devoid of hazardous elements such as As and Se is imperative for mitigating environmental impact. The Si–Te binary telluride is a representative As/Se‐free OTS material, demonstrating stable switching. However, its thermal stability is insufficient for enduring annealing processes in semiconductor manufacturing. To address this challenge, this study proposes the incorporation of Mn into the Si–Te alloy. While the introduction of transition metals into chalcogenide glass typically reduces the electrical resistivity, potentially compromising the ON/OFF ratio, the OFF current for the device containing 26 at% Mn is observed to be lower than that for the undoped Si–Te device. Furthermore, the thermal stability of the Mn–Si–Te film surpasses that of its pristine counterpart. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and density‐functional theory simulations provide evidence of Mn–Te bonding formation in the Mn–Si–Te amorphous alloy, thus suggesting the role of Mn–Te bonding in enhancing thermal stability. In these findings, a promising avenue for the advancement of novel OTS materials is provided.
Effect of proanthocyanidins on blood lipids: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Peng , Liu Xue Lian , Jiang Zong Zhe , Long Yang , Gao Chen Lin , Huang Wei , Tan Xiao Zhen , Ma Xiu Mei , Xu Yong
Published: February 2024

Proanthocyanidins (PCs) are natural antioxidant polyphenols and their effect on the regulation of blood lipids is still controversial. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of PCs on lipid metabolism. We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Chinese biomedical literature service system, China National Knowledge Internet, and Wanfang Data with no time restriction until March 18, 2022, using various forms of “proanthocyanidins” and “blood lipid” search terms. Randomized controlled trials investigating the relationship between PCs and lipid metabolism were included. The standard system of Cochrane Collaboration was used to assess the quality of studies. We standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) using the random‐effects model, Cohen approach. Seventeen studies (17 trials, N = 1138) fulfilled the eligibility criteria. PCs significantly reduced triglyceride, and increased recombinant apolipoprotein A1. Subgroup analysis showed a significant reduction in triglycerides in older adults (≥60 years) and total cholesterol for participants who were not overweight or obese (body mass index <24). An intervention duration of greater than 8 weeks reduced triglyceride and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels but increased high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Different doses of PCs could regulate triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol. PCs have beneficial effects on circulating lipids and may represent a new approach for treating or preventing lipid metabolism disorders. However, more high‐quality studies are needed to confirm these results.
A sustainable trajectory for the 2030 Agenda: Targeting historical lock‐ins to accelerate progress on all SDGs
Authors: Carlsen Henrik , Weitz Nina , Petrova Kristina , Kemp‐Benedict Eric
Published: February 2024

The 2030 Agenda states that the 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) make parts of an indivisible whole, and research on SDG implementation highlights how managing goal interactions—synergies and trade‐offs—is key for implementation to be successful. Here, we present an empirically based and transparent method for developing “consistent scenarios” that identifies which SDGs will be unattainable if historical patterns of interaction between SDGs are maintained. Using historical data on SDG indicators and correlation analysis together with cross‐impact balance analysis, we identify such scenarios for a set of high‐ to low‐income countries. Finding no consistent scenario where progress can be made on all 17 SDGs for any of the countries, our findings demonstrate the importance of policies that target interactions and resolve trade‐offs rather than individual goals to unlock a sustainable future trajectory. This reflects what was novel about the SDGs as a framework for global development; that the goals are indivisible and achieving them all require systemic changes that alter how social and economic processes interact with the environment.
The Use of NiFe2O4 and CoFe2O4 Nanoparticles Produced by Green Synthesis as Electrode Material for Supercapacitors
Authors: Baytar Orhan , Ekinci Arzu , Şahin Ömer , Akdag Abdurrahman
Published: February 2024

In this report, for the first time, we have applied green synthesized NiFe2O4 and CoFe2O4 nanoparticles as electrode materials for supercapacitors (SCs). Bean pods extracts were used for the green synthesis of NiFe2O4 and CoFe2O4 nanoparticles. The structure and morphology of the samples were characterized by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). From XRD analysis, it was determined that NiFe2O4 and CoFe2O4 nanoparticles had a crystalline structure. EDX analysis confirms the presence of carbon and the stoichiometries of NiFe2O4 and CoFe2O4. In TEM analyses, it was determined that the sizes of nanoparticles varied in the range of 5–20 nm. The FTIR spectra supported the presence of Fe−O, Ni−O, and Co−O bonds. Electrochemical measurements of active materials were performed using cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge‐discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques in a 1 M H2SO4 solution. It was determined that the specific capacitance value of NiFe2O4 (129 F/g) was higher than that of CoFe2O4 (106 F/g). The cyclic stability of CoFe2O4 and NiFe2O4 was found to be 59 and 106 % retention at the end of 10000 cycles, respectively. The specific capacitance value and very good cyclic stability of NiFe2O4 showed that it is a good active substance that can be used in supercapacitor applications.
Optimizing Surface Passivation of n‐Type Quantum Dots for Efficient PbS Quantum Dot Solar Cells
Authors: Huang Tengzuo , Wu Chunyan , Chen Zuyan , Shen Shuang , Yang Jinpeng , Xu Wei , Kang Kai , Sun Tao , Xiang Chaoyu
Published: February 2024

The n‐type quantum dot (QD) active layer is the core component of lead sulfide QD solar cells (PbS QDSCs). In the state‐of‐the‐art PbS QDSCs, the active layer is commonly obtained through liquid‐phase ligand exchange (LPLE). Due to the intricate chemical state of the ligand exchange solution providing halide ligand, therefore, the PbS‐OAQD solutions is used at concentrations of 20, 30, and 40 mg mL−1 for LPLE, aiming to investigate the reasons for different surface states post‐exchange and their impact on device performance. The results indicate that when the concentration of the PbS‐OA QD solution is 30 mg mL−1, the exchanged QDs exhibit complete removal of surface OA, a higher content of short‐chain ligand PbX2 (X = I, Br), Consequently, devices fabricated using PbS‐PbX2 QD obtained through the exchange of 30 mg mL−1 PbS‐OA QD solution achieve a higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.53%. This study presents a simple and effective strategy to enhance the performance of PbS QDSCs.