bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LHYMO: A new Water Framework Directive‐compliant multimetric index to assess lake hydromorphology and its application to French lakes
Authors: Carriere Alexandra , Reynaud Nathalie , Gay Aurore , Baudoin Jean‐Marc , Argillier Christine
Published: November 2023

Hydromorphology provides a physical framework for aquatic biocenoses. Its condition directly affects the quality of habitats available for fauna and flora, and its assessment is therefore useful for biodiversity and water quality conservation, as well as for restoration programmes required by European and national directives.

In this study, a site‐specific index of Lake HYdroMOrphology, LHYMO, was developed to provide a quantitative assessment of the hydromorphological status of natural and non‐natural lakes that is consistent with European Committee for Standardization (CEN) standards and that can be used for different purposes, including the implementation of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) and of the Habitats Directive.

This new LHYMO index includes nine metrics related to the morphological WFD quality elements (QEs) and six metrics related to the hydrological WFD QEs, all of which are considered to support biological elements. The reference conditions were defined for each metric using an original approach: the degree of alteration is measured in relation to the natural characteristics of each lake, relative to a state that ‘would be expected in the absence of disturbances’.

Besides its use for regulatory purposes, this index is also a suitable tool for monitoring the efficacy of hydromorphological restoration projects or to help target effective conservation measures on lakes.

Application of this index to 72 French lakes provides the first quantitative and homogeneous assessment of the hydromorphological quality of lakes over a whole territory and gives the first overview of the hydromorphological status of lakes in France, with classification into five classes ranging from ‘high’ to ‘bad’.

LHYMO is already operational for large French lakes as it relies mostly on reference datasets available at a national scale, and it may also be used in a wider scope through gathering or completing data from other sources.
Spatial and attribute filtering as a complementary measure in the statistical prediction of tropical cyclone rainfall
Authors: Hokson Jose Angelo , Kanae Shinjiro
Published: November 2023

The increasing rate of tropical cyclone (TC) rainfall has put populations in the Western North Pacific Region at greater risk of TC rainfall‐induced disasters. Statistical methodologies have shown potential in complementing existing prediction approaches. With TC track prediction accuracy significantly improving, statistical predictions have turned to TC tracks as a measure of similarity between TCs. Several studies have utilized Fuzzy C Means (FCM) to this end. However, FCM alone does not provide guidance on how many similar TCs should be used for predicting rainfall through ensemble averaging. While various number of ensemble members have been used to check the average error, such an approach yields only one number, which may not always be the most appropriate. In this study, we proposed a spatial and attribute filter to complement FCM identification of similar TCs. This filter excludes similar TCs with central pressure differences greater than 5% at strategic TC locations near land. The use of the filter yielded better rainfall prediction values than using FCM alone, as demonstrated in this study and validated against previous research findings. Our proposed model offers a reliable means of predicting TC rainfall when used in conjunction with accurately predicted TC tracks, representing a valuable complementary approach to existing prediction methods.
Re‐examining the evidence that ivermectin induces a melanoma‐like state in Xenopus embryos
Authors: Hutchison Ainsley , Sibanda Chiedza , Hulme Mackenzie , Anwar Sarah , Gur Bengisu , Thomas Rachael , Lowery Laura Anne
Published: November 2023

Modeling metastasis in animal systems has been an important focus for developing cancer therapeutics. Xenopus laevis is a well‐established model, known for its use in identifying genetic mechanisms underlying diseases and disorders in humans. Prior literature has suggested that the drug, ivermectin, can be used in Xenopus to induce melanocytes to convert into a metastatic melanoma‐like state, and thus could be ideal for testing possible melanoma therapies in vivo. However, there are notable inconsistencies between ivermectin studies in Xenopus and the application of ivermectin in mammalian systems, that are relevant to cancer and melanoma research. In this review, we examine the ivermectin‐induced phenotypes in Xenopus, and we explore the current uses of ivermectin in human research. We conclude that while ivermectin may be a useful drug for many biomedical purposes, it is not ideal to induce a metastatic melanocyte phenotype in Xenopus for testing the effects of potential melanoma therapeutics.
Key leaders' sustainable decision making: The roles of key leaders' sustainability mindset
Authors: Mai Bui Thi Thanh , Mai Le Thi Thu , Hung Nguyen Vu , Anh Vu Tuan
Published: November 2023

In order to achieve a competitive advantage in the market, enhance a positive brand reputation, and respond to consumers' requirement, organizations' key leaders may have to make sustainable decisions for the sake of the environment, the society and the organization simultaneously. In this study, Buddhism and compassion are proposed to extend the sustainability mindset framework in understanding key leaders' sustainable decision making to achieve a balance between concerns for environmental, societal, and economic outcomes. Data from a survey of 142 key leaders who are business owners, entrepreneurs, and managers in SMEs and startups in Vietnam provide evidence that Buddhist teaching and lifestyles are important predictors of key leaders' sustainable decision making through the mediator of compassion. Furthermore, the study also revealed that Buddhism positively and significantly influences compassion. This research, thus, makes contribution to the extant literature regarding factors influencing key leaders' sustainable decision making. Practical implications are also discussed.
Youtiao: Effect of ingredients and processing on quality attributes
Authors: Zhu Fan
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives

Youtiao (oil stick), a popular food product in East and Southeast Asia, is a deep‐fried stick of wheat flour dough. The basic ingredients include wheat flour, water, leavening agent, and frying oil. The ingredients are mixed to form a dough, which is proofed and shaped before deep‐frying. There have been variations in the quality of youtiao from the market as the production is upscaling toward the industrial level. Consumers demand healthier formulations of youtiao. A better understanding of property–quality relationships of youtiao components is essential to meet these demands. This mini‐review summarizes the sensory quality and flavor attributes of youtiao. The effects of basic and optional ingredients, chemical components, and processing on the quality of youtiao are presented. Quality evaluation of youtiao and the occurrence of chemical toxins are also described. The property–quality relationships of youtiao components are discussed. Future research directions on how to improve the youtiao quality are suggested.

Findings

Youtiao contains a range of chemical toxins including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, acrylamide, 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural, 3‐monochloropropane‐1,2‐diol fatty acid esters, and aluminum. The textural, sensory, and chemical properties of youtiao are affected by the interactions between basic ingredients, optional ingredients, and processing operations. Suitable wheat varieties and frying oils should be chosen to make youtiao with desirable sensory properties. Optional ingredients, such as starch‐based nonwheat flours, hydrocolloids, and antioxidants, showed potential to improve various aspects of youtiao quality. Frozen dough technology is promising for industrial‐scale production of youtiao.

Conclusions

Variation in the quality of youtiao from different manufacturers is large. There are many research opportunities to improve the quality of youtiao.

Significance and Novelty

Youtiao represents a typical model system of deep‐fried cereal foods, which are under‐studied as compared with other cereal and grain‐based foods. This review systematically analyzed different aspects of youtiao quality for the first time, and may stimulate further interest in the studies of fried cereal and grain‐based foods.
Monolithic Porous Organic Polymer‐Photocatalyst Composites for Applications in Catalysis
Authors: Venditto Vincenzo , Vaiano Vincenzo , Sacco Olga
Published: November 2023

This Review provides a perspective on porous organic polymer‐photocatalyst composites obtained by coupling semiconductors and hydrophilic/hydrophobic polymers which do not modify the properties of the embedded photocatalysts, but can influence the efficiency of the overall catalytic process. Particular attention has been given to polymer composites in the form of monolithic hydrogel/sponge/aerogels obtained by dissolving the polymer in a solvent, which contains the photocatalyst dispersed, inducing gelation or solidification of the solution and subsequently removing the solvent by a drying process. The photocatalytic applications discussed here cover H2 evolution from water splitting, CO2 reduction, and organic synthesis. Indeed, the main aim of this Review is to outline an alternative perspective to the highly studied environmental photocatalytic applications, highlighting the photoactive properties of these composites thanks to the incorporation of semiconductors in the 3D porous structure of organic polymers. Finally the challenges and potential advances associated with the use of porous organic polymer‐photocatalyst composites for future scientific research are outlined.
Seawater to Green Hydrogen: Future of Green Energy
Authors: Loomba Suraj , Khan Muhammad Waqas , Mahmood Nasir
Published: November 2023

Water electrolysis to produce hydrogen has been viewed as the future of green energy. The reliance of current electrolyzer technologies on ultrapure fresh water is not feasible to meet increasing hydrogen demands. The abundant seawater emerged as the potential feedstock for water electrolysis, but its complex composition and chlorine chemistry make the process complicated. Recently designed effective catalysts have given hope for direct seawater splitting but need to be optimized for commercial use. Moreover, the inability of current electrolyzer technologies with seawater requires efforts to establish this technology. In short, freshwater as feed for water electrolysis is not sustainable; the focus must be on seawater. While desalination seems to be a viable option, the economics of scale of the plant is critical in assessing its viability. Although the complex composition of seawater makes direct seawater splitting challenging, designing effective catalysts and durable electrolyzers can make it possible for a truly sustainable hydrogen industry.
Correlation of immediate prevalence of cervical precancers and cancers with HPV genotype and age in women with atypical glandular cells cytology: A retrospective analysis of 369 cases
Authors: Zhou Xin , Lin Wanrun , Qin Yiming , Zhang Jing , Zhang Xiaofei , Zhang Huijuan , Zheng Wenxin , Zhou Feng
Published: November 2023

Background

This study aims to assess the immediate risk of cervical precancers and cancers in women with atypical glandular cells (AGC) cytology, based on high‐risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) genotypes and age.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 369 cases of AGC with immediate follow‐up biopsy results, including 299 AGC‐not otherwise specified (NOS) and 70 AGC‐favor neoplastic (FN).

Results

Among the 369 AGC cases, 127 tested positive for hrHPV (34.4%). The predominant high‐risk type was other 11 genotypes (44.1%), followed by 16+ (29.1%), 18/45+ (26.0%), and 16 and 18/45 double‐positive (0.79%). Precancers and cancers were detected in 30.4% (112 of 369) and 9.8% (36 of 369) of cases, respectively. The HPV‐18/45+ group had notably higher adenocarcinoma in situ and adenocarcinoma (AIS+) prevalence compared to other 11 genotype groups (p < .0001 and p = .001, respectively). The HPV‐16+ group showed significantly higher high‐grade cervical squamous epithelial lesion and squamous cell carcinoma prevalence than other 11 genotype groups (p < .0001 and p = .017, respectively). Using 40‐year cutoff, older women had significantly higher prevalence of abnormal glandular lesion+ lesions (17.6% vs. 7.6%, p = .005) and adenocarcinoma (AC) (12.4% vs. 2.5%, p = .001). Using 50‐year cutoff, older women had higher prevalence of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (3.3% vs. 0.4%, p = .042) and AC (15.2% vs. 5.8%, p = .005). Subgroup analysis revealed that AGC‐FN women showed more severe cervical pathology than AGC‐NOS women (p < .001).

Conclusions

AGC women have a significantly increased risk of cervical precancerous lesions and cancer. HPV genotyping and patient age factors need to be taken into consideration in the clinical management process of AGC patients.
Critical sets of solutions of elliptic equations in periodic homogenization
Authors: Lin Fanghua , Shen Zhongwei
Published: November 2023

In this paper we study critical sets of solutions of second‐order elliptic equations in divergence form with rapidly oscillating and periodic coefficients. Under some condition on the first‐order correctors, we show that the ‐dimensional Hausdorff measures of the critical sets are bounded uniformly with respect to the period , provided that doubling indices for solutions are bounded. The key step is an estimate of “turning” of an approximate tangent map, the projection of a non‐constant solution onto the subspace of spherical harmonics of order , when the doubling index for on a sphere is trapped between and , for between 1 and a minimal radius . This estimate is proved by using harmonic approximation successively. With a suitable renormalization as well as rescaling we are able to control the accumulated errors introduced by homogenization and projection. Our proof also gives uniform bounds for Minkowski contents of the critical sets.
A 19‐color single‐tube full spectrum flow cytometry assay for the detection of measurable residual disease in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Fokken Hendrik , Waclawski Julian , Kattre Nadine , Kloos Arnold , Müller Sebastian , Ettinger Max , Kacprowski Tim , Heuser Michael , Maetzig Tobias , Schwarzer Adrian
Published: November 2023

Multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC) has emerged as a standard method for quantifying measurable residual disease (MRD) in acute myeloid leukemia. However, the limited number of available channels on conventional flow cytometers requires the division of a diagnostic sample into several tubes, restricting the number of cells and the complexity of immunophenotypes that can be analyzed. Full spectrum flow cytometers overcome this limitation by enabling the simultaneous use of up to 40 fluorescent markers. Here, we used this approach to develop a good laboratory practice‐conform single‐tube 19‐color MRD detection assay that complies with recommendations of the European LeukemiaNet Flow‐MRD Working Party. We based our assay on clinically‐validated antibody clones and evaluated its performance on an IVD‐certified full spectrum flow cytometer. We measured MRD and normal bone marrow samples and compared the MRD data to a widely used reference MRD‐MFC panel generating highly concordant results. Using our newly developed single‐tube panel, we established reference values in healthy bone marrow for 28 consensus leukemia‐associated immunophenotypes and introduced a semi‐automated dimensionality‐reduction, clustering and cell type identification approach that aids the unbiased detection of aberrant cells. In summary, we provide a comprehensive full spectrum MRD‐MFC workflow with the potential for rapid implementation for routine diagnostics due to reduced cell requirements and ease of data analysis with increased reproducibility in comparison to conventional FlowMRD routines.
Vangunu giant rat (Uromys vika) survives in the Zaira Community Resource Management Area, Solomon Islands
Authors: Lavery Tyrone H. , Holland Adrian , Jino Nixon , Judge Atuna , Judge Hikuna , Onga Pandakai , Sese Kevin
Published: November 2023

Described in 2017 and known only from the holotype, Uromys vika is surely among the world's least studied rodents. This critically endangered species is facing a rapidly increasing scale for threat from logging of its primary lowland forest habitat, on the only island on which it occurs—Vangunu, Solomon Islands. However, a deep traditional ecological knowledge of U. vika is held by Vangunu's people. Using camera traps and guided by this knowledge, we aimed to make additional records of U. vika in the last major block of Vangunu's primary forest. We successfully captured 95 images of what we postulate is four different individuals. The forests at Zaira represent the last suitable habitat remaining for this species, and recent development consent for logging at Zaira will lead to its extinction if permitted to proceed.
Synthesis of Aromatic Nitriles by SmI2‐Mediated Reductive Cleavage of Cyanoximes
Authors: Xie Dengbing , Lin Ming , Wang Pengkai , Zhang Lingyu , Zhang Songlin
Published: November 2023

The reduction of cyanoximes to aromatic nitriles is reported for the first time, via N‐centered anions from the reductive cleavage of N−ΘΘΘΘΘΘO bond in cyanoximes promoted by SmI2. A mild, safe, and efficient method for the synthesis of aromatic nitriles in a one‐pot fashion with excellent yields was developed.
Correlation between migraine and cerebral small vessel disease: A case–control study
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Li Yanbo , He Li
Published: November 2023

Background

Microcirculatory pathology is one of the pathophysiological theories of migraine, which may present as visually subclinical lesions. Image markers of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) have been investigated in elderly migraineurs. However, past studies looked at only part of image features, and the conclusions may have been hindered by confounding factors. The relationship between migraine and CSVD signs needs reliable demonstrations.

Methods

We conducted a case–control study by recruiting episodic young migraineurs from a tertiary headache centre, with tension‐type headache (TTH) and healthy controls. Distinct image features of microvascular damage and baseline characteristics across groups were assessed, and multivariate linear regression was performed to evaluate the risk factors for image abnormalities in migraineurs.

Results

Forty‐eight migraineurs, 32 TTHs and 49 healthy controls were included. The median age was 32 year‐old. 58.7% of the participants were female. The Scheltens score and volume of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) in migraineurs, and the number of Virchow–Robin spaces (VRSs) in both migraineurs and TTHs were different from those in normal controls. No lacunar infarct‐like lesions (ILLs) or cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) were found. Age, education level (high level: β = −2.23, lobar WMHs), attack duration (long duration: β = 3.81, lobar WMHs) and attack frequency were independent risk factors for Scheltens score and volume of WMH in migraineurs. Migraine aura (β = −2.389), attack frequency and education level were correlated with the number of VRSs.

Conclusions

Migraine was associated with WMHs and VRSs. Aura, attack duration, attack frequency, age and education level were risk factors for image abnormalities of CVSD in migraineurs.

Significance

This study provides a novel and comprehensive landscape of CSVD MRI features in young migraineurs, and it fills the blank of CMBs and VRSs which received less attention, with more persuasive, more reliable and stronger evidence of the association between CSVD and migraine. Our results also imply some new feature of TTH and the possible pathophysiology of the migraine course as well as new clues for the early management of migraine in terms of visual brain damage.
CFA‐treated mice induce hyperalgesia in healthy mice via an olfactory mechanism
Authors: Zhang Yangmiao , Luo Wentai , Heinricher Mary M. , Ryabinin Andrey E.
Published: November 2023

Background

Social interactions with subjects experiencing pain can increase nociceptive sensitivity in observers, even without direct physical contact. In previous experiments, extended indirect exposure to soiled bedding from mice with alcohol withdrawal‐related hyperalgesia enhanced nociception in their conspecifics. This finding suggested that olfactory cues could be sufficient for nociceptive hypersensitivity in otherwise untreated animals (also known as “bystanders”).

Aim

The current study addressed this possibility using an inflammation‐based hyperalgesia model and long‐ and short‐term exposure paradigms in C57BL/6J mice.

Materials & Method

Adult male and female mice received intraplantar injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) and were used as stimulus animals to otherwise naïve same‐sex bystander mice (BS). Another group of untreated mice (OLF) was simultaneously exposed to the bedding of the stimulus mice.

Results

In the long‐term, 15‐day exposure paradigm, the presence of CFA mice or their bedding resulted in reduced von Frey threshold but not Hargreaves paw withdrawal latency in BS or OLF mice. In the short‐term paradigm, 1‐hr interaction with CFA conspecifics or 1‐hr exposure to their bedding induced mechanical hypersensitivity in BS and OLF mice lasting for 3 hrs. Chemical ablation of the main olfactory epithelium prevented bedding‐induced and stimulus mice‐induced mechanical hypersensitivity. Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) analysis of the volatile compounds in the bedding of experimental mice revealed that CFA‐treated mice released an increased number of compounds indicative of disease states.

Discussion and Conclusion

These results demonstrate that CFA‐induced inflammatory pain can modulate nociception in bystander mice via an olfactory mechanism involving dynamic changes in volatile compounds detectable in the rodent bedding.

Significance

Social context can influence nociceptive sensitivity. Recent studies suggested involvement of olfaction in this influence. In agreement with this idea, the present study shows that the presence of mice with inflammatory pain produces nociceptive hypersensitivity in nearby conspecifics. This enhanced nociception occurs via olfactory cues present in the mouse bedding. Analysis of the bedding from mice with inflammatory pain identifies a number of compounds indicative of disease states. These findings demonstrate the importance of olfactory system in influencing pain states.
Calibrated forecasts of quasi‐periodic climate processes with deep echo state networks and penalized quantile regression
Authors: Bonas Matthew , Wikle Christopher K. , Castruccio Stefano
Published: November 2023

Among the most relevant processes in the Earth system for human habitability are quasi‐periodic, ocean‐driven multi‐year events whose dynamics are currently incompletely characterized by physical models, and hence poorly predictable. This work aims at showing how (1) data‐driven, stochastic machine learning approaches provide an affordable yet flexible means to forecast these processes; (2) the associated uncertainty can be properly calibrated with fast ensemble‐based approaches. While the methodology introduced and discussed in this work pertains to synoptic scale events, the principle of augmenting incomplete or highly sensitive physical systems with data‐driven models to improve predictability is far more general and can be extended to environmental problems of any scale in time or space.
Edible gums—An extensive review on its diverse applications in various food sectors
Authors: Kadirvel Vijayasri , Narayana Gururaj P.
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the extraction, processing, and application of edible gums, in the food and healthcare sector has skyrocketed and extensively explored. Edible gums are derived from multiple sources such as plants/trees, animals, microorganisms, and seaweed. Edible gums are typically employed to perform certain functions including modification of rheology, gel formation, stability, encapsulation, and fat replacement. The unique interaction of edible gums with food molecules enables the achievement of desired characteristics of specific food products belonging to various sectors. This review delivers a comprehensive understanding of the classification and characterization of edible gums and their applications in the food industry. Despite several advantages offered by edible gums, there exist certain challenges that are encountered during commercialization by manufacturers and proposed strategies to overcome the hurdles, regulatory aspects, and safety of edible gums upon consumption have been highlighted in this review.
Antiobesity effect of healthy food crops and functional foods: A systematic review of their mechanisms
Authors: Oladimeji Beatrice Mofoluwaso , Adebo Oluwafemi Ayodeji
Published: November 2023

Diet is a modifiable risk factor in the prevention and management of obesity, and various foods have the potential to aid in obesity management by modulating different pathways involved in the disease's pathology. We performed a systematic review of literature, using CINAHL, PubMed, and Google Scholar, focusing on the antiobesity potential of foods crops and functional food products, and their mechanisms of action and clinical evidence. Sixty‐four articles were identified, of which 41 investigated food crops, while 23 investigated functional products. Food crops, such as cereals, vegetables, fruits, mushrooms, seaweeds, legumes, herbs, spices, and cocoa seeds, have antiobesity effects through mechanisms such as altering the metabolism of glucolipids by inhibiting enzymes like α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase, stimulating the bioenergetics of thermogenic fat, modulating gut microbiota, and inhibiting lipogenesis and storage. In addition, developed functional teas, beverages, and yoghurt have antiobesity effects through similar or different mechanisms, such as enhancing energy expenditure and satiety, suppressing adipogenesis and lipolysis, improving glucose and lipid metabolism, and altering hormonal secretion. This review reemphasized the significance of food in the control of obesity, and highlights the distinct methods these explored foods exert their antiobesity effects. In conclusion, foods are safe and effective means of combating obesity without the side effects of conventional drugs, which can help inform dietary choices, assist professionals in providing more accurate advice, and also lead to better understanding of food and its effect on overall health of the public. This approach will eradicate global diseases, especially if more underutilized and indigenous food crops are extensively researched.
Nonreassuring fetal status during labor and offspring's childhood neurodevelopment at 3 years of age: The Japan Environment and Children's Study
Authors: Murata Tsuyoshi , Kyozuka Hyo , Yasuda Shun , Imaizumi Karin , Isogami Hirotaka , Fukuda Toma , Yamaguchi Akiko , Sato Akiko , Ogata Yuka , Shinoki Kosei , Hosoya Mitsuaki , Yasumura Seiji , Hashimoto Koichi , Fujimori Keiya , Nishigori Hidekazu ,   The Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS) Group
Published: November 2023

Objective

Although prior attempts have failed to identify the beneficial effects of intensive fetal monitoring on cerebral palsy, the association between nonreassuring fetal status (NRFS) during labor and the incidence of long‐term neurodevelopmental delays in offspring remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate this association using a nationwide birth cohort.

Methods

Data from 72 869 women with singleton deliveries at and after 37 weeks of gestation from the Japan Environment and Children's Study (2011–2014) were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to analyze the odds ratios (ORs) for neurodevelopmental delays using the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (Third Edition) in offspring aged 3 years.

Results

The adjusted ORs for personal–social problems were 1.52 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06–2.16) for offspring delivered vaginally by nulliparous mothers and 1.51 (95% CI, 1.05–2.18) (for males, 1.70 [95% CI, 1.15–2.50]) for those delivered via cesarean section. No significant changes in adjusted ORs for neurodevelopmental delays were observed among participants without neonatal Apgar scores (ASs) <7 and without umbilical arterial pH (UmA‐pH) <7.20.

Conclusion

NRFS during labor was associated with an increased incidence of personal–social problems in offspring aged 3 years. However, this association was not confirmed after excluding participants with neonatal ASs <7 and UmA‐pH <7.20. The association between NRFS and offspring's neurodevelopmental delays might vary based on delivery settings, offspring sex, and short‐term neonatal outcomes.
Market power in smart farming and the distribution of gains in two‐stage crop production system
Authors: Awada Lana , Phillips Peter W. B.
Published: November 2023

In smart farming, agricultural technology providers (ATPs) wield market power in both the upstream (data collection/aggregation) and downstream (crop production) markets. Using a two‐stage Muth model, this study assesses benefit distribution from ATPs' data‐driven services in smart farming. Results show limited farmer returns from data sharing, questioning policymakers' data value focus. While data‐driven services offer notable benefits, ATPs capture a significant share due to market power. Addressing ATP market power promotes equitable rent distribution, but perfect competition risks ATPs' sustainability and R&D incentives, presenting a policy challenge for smart farming outcomes.
Alcohol consumption in developing countries: Does information and communication technology (ICT) diffusion matter?
Authors: Song Jacques Simon , Mougnol A Ekoula Hervé William , Ngnouwal Eloundou Georges
Published: November 2023

The use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has generated a rich literature. In this paper, we examine the effect of ICT use on alcohol consumption in a sample of 120 developing countries. To do so, we specify and estimate a panel data model first by pooled ordinary least squares (POLS) and second by feasible generalised least squares (F‐GLS) over the period 2000–2020. The robustness of the results is tested by using the system generalised method of moments (S‐GMM), taking into account regional specificities and cultural variables. The main result reveals that ICT use significantly reduces alcohol consumption. However, the effects of ICTs are mediated by economic, political and institutional governance. We suggest qualitative improvements in technological infrastructure for continued mitigation of alcohol consumption in developing countries.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Radiotherapy for Vestibular Schwannoma in NF2‐Related Schwannomatosis
Authors: Shrivastava Manu , Emmanouil Beatrice , Mathew Rajeev , Halliday Dorothy , Parry Allyson , Halliday Jane , Mackeith Samuel
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To determine the long‐term control rates and hearing outcomes for growing vestibular schwannoma in NF2‐related schwannomatosis (NF2) treated with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and fractionated radiotherapy (FRT).

Methods

Retrospective review of all patients treated with SRS/FRT between 1986 and2021 from a tertiary NF2 unit. Overall tumor control was defined as: (1) growth control (growth failure was defined as growth in any dimension of 3 millimetres or more from baseline post‐SRS/FRT), and (2) treatment control (no need for further intervention). Loss of serviceable hearing was defined as a drop in speech discrimination score below 50% after SRS/FRT.

Results

There were 81 cases, with a mean duration of follow‐up of 125 months. Overall control rate was 72% (58/81), with 80% (65/81) growth control and 74% (60/81) treatment control. There was a 5‐year actuarial survival of 77% and 10‐year survival of 71%. Forty‐three percent (30/69) of cases did not have serviceable hearing at baseline. Of those remaining, 49% (19/39) preserved serviceable hearing during follow‐up at a mean of 106 months. Actuarial survival for preservation of serviceable hearing at 5 and 10 years was 69% and 53%. There were poorer outcomes with increasing genetic severity, and with baseline tumor size >3 cm. No cases of SRS/FRT‐related malignancy were identified at a mean follow‐up of 10 years.

Conclusion

Stereotactic radiosurgery/fractionated radiotherapy are an effective option to treat growing vestibular schwannoma in patients with NF2 with the potential for hearing preservation in a proportion of patients.

Level of Evidence

4—Case Series Laryngoscope, 134:2364–2371, 2024
Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Triplet State Excitons for High‐Performance Organic Photodetectors: A Novel Strategy
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Ahsan , Weng Xiaoliang , Kang Chenxu , Arif Nayab , Wu Kewen , Tang Wei , Dai Sichao , Fang Xueqian , Cai Houzhi , Zeng Yu‐Jia
Published: November 2023

Photoinduced charge‐trapping is a promising strategy for boosting the photosensitivity of organic photodetectors at the expense of their response time. In addition, they have a low carrier extraction yield due to the formation of low‐energy triplet excitons through the recombination of a photogenerated hole–electron pair. Materials with thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) exhibit a long‐lived (≈µs) excited spin‐triplet nearly iso‐energetically aligned with that of an excited spin‐singlet, which results in suppressed exciton losses and is widely used in organic light‐emitting diodes. The extraction and population of triplet state excitons in TADFs is a sought‐after but underexplored aspect of photoinduced gating in photodetectors. A 1,2,3,5‐tetrakis(carbazol‐9‐yl)4,6‐Dicyanobenzene (4CzIPN) TADF blend with a high‐mobility Poly[2,5‐bis(3‐tetradecylthiophen‐2‐yl)thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene] (PBTTT‐C14) polymer via bulk type‐II offset can increase free carrier extraction yield (fast response) and retain trapped electrons in TADF triplet states (high gain). The PBTTT‐C14/4CzIPN ultraviolet photodetector device maintains a trade‐off between high photogain (≈103) and fast response time (79 ms) at 300 nm while operating at a shallow dark current (≈pA). Furthermore, the device shows high external quantum efficiency (≈104 %) and detectivity (≈1011 Jones) for low light power (<pW). The innovative application of TADF material can lead to exciting new developments in organic‐based high‐performance photodetection.
Effect of Novel Compound Redox Initiators on Polymerization Mechanism and Mechanical Properties of Acrylic Resin
Authors: Zhu Kang , Li Yong , Huan Dajun , Liu Hao , Li Ziyi , Jin Yue , Zhu Chunling
Published: November 2023

Aiming at the problems of long reaction time and the risk of explosion polymerization of acrylate resin, a small amount of ferrocene (Fc) is added to the existing dibenzoyl peroxide (BPO)/N,N‐dimethylaniline (DMA) initiators, and the compound redox initiators (BPO/DMA/ (Fc)) are proposed for acrylate resin polymerization at room temperature. The effect of the content of Fc in the resin on the reaction efficiency and the molding quality of products is researched, and the initiation mechanism of the compound redox initiators is analyzed. It is found that with the addition of Fc, the reaction time of the resin can be shortened by 68% at maximum, the heat release temperature of the resin can be reduced by 40% at maximum, the molecular weight of the reaction products can be increased by 74% at maximum, the tensile and bending properties of the resin castings are increased by 23% and 35% at maximum, respectively, and the bending strength and bending modulus are increased by 57% and 27% at maximum, respectively. The compound redox initiators proposed in this paper can improve the molding efficiency and quality of the product, lay a foundation for the application of acrylic resin in the field of pultrusion molding, perfusion molding, and other in situ molding of thermoplastic composites.
Propagation of P‐SV waves radiated by explosive columns in jointed rock masses
Authors: Wei Haixia , Wang Chengzhi , Zhu Jie , Chu Huaibao , Chen Shihai
Published: November 2023

When an explosive column initiates, it will radiate P‐SV waves. The propagation of P‐SV waves, which carry the majority of the explosion energy, is extremely complex in jointed rock masses. Therefore, studying the propagation of blasting stress waves in jointed rock masses is of great significance for optimizing the parameters of the blastholes and improving the economy and safety of geotechnical engineering construction. In this study, an analytical model of the propagation of P‐SV waves radiated by explosive columns in jointed rock masses is derived. Using this analytical model, the maximum displacement distribution in jointed rock masses with the free surface is analyzed, and the results show: (1) when the stress waves propagate to the free surface, the reflected waves will be generated, which will produce the remarkable superposition effect with the direct waves, while the superposition effect will affect the maximum displacements at the measuring points significantly; (2) the amplitude of transmitted waves generated from the stress waves that propagate through the rock joints is smaller than that of direct waves, thus the maximum displacements at the measuring points are affected by the rock joints within a certain range; (3) the velocity of detonation (VOD) and the length of the explosive column can affect the superposition effect of stress waves, ultimately impacting the maximum displacement distribution in jointed rock masses. Therefore, optimizing the parameters of the blastholes reasonably to achieve the optimal superposition of stress waves is of great significance for improving the construction efficiency of geotechnical engineering.
Gentrification and childhood obesity: Evidence from New York City public school students in public housing
Authors: Zhou Eric G. , Schwartz Amy Ellen , Elbel Brian
Published: November 2023

Objective

The study objective was to determine the effect of gentrification on the weight outcomes of New York City public school students living in public housing.

Methods

In a prospective cohort of 19,022 New York City public school students in public housing followed during 2009–2017, weight outcomes of students living in public housing buildings in gentrified neighborhoods were compared to those living in consistently low‐socioeconomic‐status neighborhoods; assignment was quasi‐random in each borough.

Results

Among the 42,182 student‐year observations, gentrification did not increase weight outcomes significantly, for BMI z scores (0.037; 95% CI: −0.012 to 0.086), obesity (0.6 percentage points [pp]; 95% CI: −0.9 to 2.1), or overweight (1.3 pp; 95% CI: −0.7 to 3.2). However, heterogeneous effects by borough were found, where the gentrification in Manhattan increased students' BMI z scores by 0.19 (95% CI: 0.09–0.29), obesity by 3.4 pp (95% CI: 0.03–6.5), and overweight by 9.2 pp (95% CI: 6.3–12.1). No heterogeneity by race and ethnicity, gender, or age was found.

Conclusions

With strong internal validity, this study shows that neighborhood gentrification differentially influenced children's health through obesity, based on borough of residence. Such findings could inform policies or interventions focused on subpopulations and geographies.
Substantial improvement of thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of polymer composites by incorporation of boron nitride nanosheets and modulation of thermal curing reaction
Authors: He Liang , Zhang Wanru , Liu Xiaobo , Tong Lifen
Published: November 2023

Thermal conductive polymer‐based composites synchronously with stable dielectric and excellent mechanical properties are urgently needed for high‐temperature‐resistant electronic devices. Here, a significant improvement in the thermal conductivity (TC), thermal stability, dielectric, and mechanical performance was simultaneously achieved in the polyarylene ether nitrile (PEN)/divinyl siloxane‐bisbenzocyclobutene (BCB) matrix through the incorporation of boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS) combined together with the post‐solid phase chemical reaction technique. The significant increase in the effective filler‐filler and filler‐crystal contacts in the composites was the main reason for the improvement in TC and dielectric constant. Besides, glass transition temperature (Tg) and mechanicals were enhanced in the presence of cross‐linked networks. By synchronously adding 15 vol% BNNS, the TC of composites after treatment reached up to 5.582 W/m.K, enhanced by 4.4 times higher than untreated. The dielectric constant was down to 2.93 at 1 MHz and the loss remained at a relatively low level. Meanwhile, the composite showed significantly enhanced thermal stability, mechanicals, and hydrophobicity (Tg = 336°C, T5% = 529°C, tensile strength and modulus was 94.5 MPa and 5.3 GPa, respectively, the contact angle was 101.76°). Thus, it promotes an effective strategy for fabricating a high‐performance‐polymer composite, which has the potential used in electronic materials.

Highlights

Crystallization‐crosslinking strategy optimizes overall performance.

Crystals fill gaps between BNNS layers and connect thermal conductive pathway.

Crosslinked networks limit molecular chain motion to reduce phonon scattering.

The highest TC of the PEN/BCB/BNNS composite is up to 7.451 W/m.K.

Thermal property shows significant improvement after crosslinking especially Tg.
Synthesis and modification of poly (p‐phenylene terephthalamide) for production of light‐weight hybrid composite armors reinforced with polymer composite nanofiber mats
Authors: Güldiken Çağla Gül , Gerçel Hasan Ferdi
Published: November 2023

Poly (p‐phenylene terephthalamide) (PPTA) polymer was synthesized and then modified to eliminate the processing difficulties arising from its insolubility in organic solvents. The chemical structures of the synthesized PPTA and N‐butyl PPTA (BPPTA) were confirmed by elemental analysis, x‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and 13C‐NMR spectroscopy studies. As a result of modification, an aramid derivative that is soluble in some common solvents was obtained and added into polyacrylonitrile (PAN) matrix in solution. PAN/BPPTA composite nanofiber mats (CNMs) were fabricated by electrospinning. Mechanical tests showed that tensile strength increased by 119% with 3% BPPTA content. The fabricated CNMs were combined with aramid fabrics to produce laminated hybrid armors and ballistic tests were performed following the NATO Stanag 2920 standard. This is the first report about the integration of CNMs into multilayer armor configurations and resulted in improved ballistic limit velocity (V50) with a relatively very small weight gain and emergence of new energy absorption mechanisms.

Highlights

Alkylation of the para‐aramid yielded an organo‐soluble aramid derivative.

Tensile strength of PAN nanofiber mat increased by 119% with 3% N‐butyl PPTA.

Integration of the CNMs resulted in new ballistic impact absorption mechanisms.

CNMs contribute to V50 with a very low mass gain due to their high surface area/mass.
Recyclable and shape‐memory hydantoin epoxy resins based on dynamic ester‐exchanged bonds
Authors: Xing Wenjing , Li Ling , Wang Yao , Guo Jiajia , Cao Wei , Lei Shiyu , Liu Xiangyu
Published: November 2023

The permanent crosslinked network imparts chemical and mechanical stability to crosslinked elastomers, making their recycling a serious environmental issue. The decomposition products of pentaaryl diazoxide in the structure of hydantoin epoxy resin are nitrogen and carbon dioxide, and it is an environmentally friendly resin material. Here, we demonstrate a reversible covalent bonding reaction catalyzed by Zn2+ between the ester bond formed by the hydantoin epoxy resin and the acid anhydride, and construct a reversible crosslinked network structure of the environmentally friendly acid anhydride/hydantoin epoxy resin material. The strength, hardness and toughness of the cured material are greatly improved by optimizing its ratio. The ester exchange bonding can be reversible with temperature, which leads to the shape memory capability of the synthesized cured material. The cured product of HMY1 was recovered with ethylene glycol and completely dissolved at 180°C for 11 h. Ethylene glycol was volatilized at 190°C to obtain decomposed epoxy oligomer (DEO), which was added to the HMY1 resin system (the amount of DEO was 30 wt% of the total mass of the resin), and the network structure was cross‐linked to enable it to be recovered and remanufactured. Thus, this work provides a new avenue for the environmentally friendly development of recyclable, reconfigurable, and thermally adaptable shape‐memory hydantoin epoxy materials.

Highlights

Hydantoin epoxy resin eventually breaks down into non‐toxic CO2 and N2.

Hydantoin epoxy and methyl tetrahydrophthalic anhydride form a reversible dynamic chemical bond catalyzed by Zn2+.

Ethylene glycol can recover and reuse the solidified product.
Swelling of star polymer thin films exposed to supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Caglayan Ayse , Satija Sushil K. , Uhrig David , Hong Kunlun , Koga Tadanori , Akgun Bulent
Published: November 2023

Impact of polymer chain architecture on the swelling of supported single‐layer polymer thin films with thicknesses below 80 nm in the presence of supercritical CO2 (scCO2) is investigated using in‐situ neutron reflectivity (NR) and ex‐situ x‐ray reflectivity (XR). 4‐arm star and 8‐arm star deuterated polystyrene (dPS) having similar total molecular weights are used. NR results revealed that the magnitude of the swelling for star polymers increases proportionally with decreasing dry film thicknesses similar to linear polymers. For film thicknesses above 5Rg, architectural differences have no impact on the swelling behavior. However, below 5Rg as the branching increases from linear to 4‐arm star and to 8‐arm star, swelling decreases due to the presence of a relatively thicker adsorbed layer formed by more branched architectures. Ex‐situ XR measurements verified that star architectures swell less than linear architecture and provided new information about the vitrification of the films through rapid quenching and its relation to the amount of CO2 retention.