bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of Fish Skin Gelatin for Nutritional Value Enhancement of Avocado‐Based Low‐Fat Ice Cream
Authors: Mada Hatsa Tanje , Jillo Dambe Genesho , Srinivasan Babuskin
Published: November 2024

Gelatin is one of the most widely used food ingredients, with wide applications in the food industry as stabilizing, gelling, and foaming agents. Fish skin is the basic source of gelatin, which contains a high amount of protein. The results show that the proximate compositions (protein, fat, ash, moisture, fiber, carbohydrate, and total energy) of the optimized ice cream product with ingredient compositions of (30% milk, 40% avocado pulp, 10% sugar, 15% gelatin, and 5% cream) show values of 3.26 ± 0.35, 9.32 ± 0.22, 2.79 ± 0.02, 57.83 ± 0.14, 3.46 ± 0.24, 23.26 ± 0.71, and 190.54 ± 0.02, respectively. Also, the microbe load in the optimized ice cream product was not detected up to 1 week, while total plate count and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria were starting to grow up after a week, and the results of panelists from sensory values indicate high acceptability of products with the aim of assessing the influence of fish skin gelatin on the nutritional values of avocado‐based low‐fat ice cream. Considering the results, gelatin has a significant effect on the nutritional and rheological properties of ice cream, specifically striking visibility on protein composition.
Comparative Study of Essential Oils Extracted From Foeniculum vulgare Miller Seeds Using Hydrodistillation, Steam Distillation, and Superheated Steam Distillation
Authors: Raza Muhammad Haseeb , Ayub Muhammad Adnan , Zubair Muhammad , Hussain Amjad , Saleem Samreen , Azam Muhammad Tauseef , Hussain Muzzamal , Memon Anjuman Gul , Abdelgawad Mohamed A. , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , El‐Ghorab Ahmed H. , Mostafa Ehab M. , Al Jbawi Entessar
Published: November 2024

Foeniculum vulgare Miller is a highly valued aromatic and nutritious plant. The unique compositions of its essential oil make it more valuable in the flavor, fragrance, and medicinal industries. However, the potential of superheated steam distillation for obtaining essential oils from its seeds has not been explored in detail. This study assessed the composition, yield, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities of essential oils distilled from F. vulgare seeds using traditional hydrodistillation, steam distillation, and superheated steam distillation. Superheated steam distillation resulted in the maximum quantity of essential oil (5.24%) compared to steam (3.47%) and hydrodistillation (2.47%). Trans‐anethole, fenchone, estragole, and limonene were the main identified by GC–MS analysis in the essential oils, and these compounds were abundant in the essential oil produced by superheated steam distillation. Essential oil distilled by superheated steam distillation presented the highest antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pastrulla multocida, Bacillus subtilis, and Escherichia coli. The highest antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger, Fusarium solani, Aspergillus flavus, and Alternaria alternate was also demonstrated by the same essential oil. These findings demonstrated the potential of superheated steam distillation as a highly effective and efficient technique for distilling high‐quality essential oils from Foeniculum vulgare Miller seeds. It is suitable for various applications in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.
Differential Expression of Proteins and Genes at the Tumor‐Brain Interface in Invasive Meningioma
Authors: Senglek Kornwika , Teerapakpinyo Chinachote , Jittapiromsak Nutchawan , Jittapiromsak Pakrit , Lertparinyaphorn Irin , Thorner Paul Scott , Shuangshoti Shanop
Published: November 2024

Most meningiomas are dural‐based extra‐axial tumors in close contact with the brain. Expression of genes and proteins at the tumor‐brain interface in brain‐invasive meningioma is basically unknown. Using the NanoString pan‐cancer panel, differential expression of genes in the invasive edge versus main tumor body was determined in 12 invasive meningiomas (comprising the discovery cohort), and 6 candidate genes: DTX1, RASGRF1, GRIN1, TNR, IL6, and NR4A1, were identified. By immunohistochemistry, DTX1 and RASGRF1 expression correlated with gene expression, and were studied in an expanded cohort of 21 invasive and 15 noninvasive meningiomas, together with Ki‐67. Significantly higher expression of DTX1, RASGFR1, and Ki‐67 was found in the invasive edge compared with the main tumor body. Increased expression of RASGRF1 and Ki‐67 was more clearly associated with brain invasion. The situation with DTX1 was less definitive since increased expression was observed in meningiomas both at the invasive edge and when in close contact with brain but without invasion. Pathway analyses identified significant links between DTX1 and RASGRF1 and key biological processes, including cell–cell adhesion, and signaling pathways including Notch, RAS, MAPK, and Rho. Higher expression of DTX1, RASGRF1, and Ki‐67 in the brain‐invasive area of meningiomas suggests that these proteins play a role in the process of brain invasion.
IoT‐Based Hand Hygiene Compliance Monitoring System and Validation of Its Effectiveness in Hospital Environments
Authors: Wu Ju‐Yu , Lin Yi‐Chun , Lee Shu‐Yuan , Chen Cheng‐Pin , Cheng Shu‐Hsing , Cheng Chien‐Yu , Ching Congo Tak Shing , Wang Hui‐Min David , Yeh Chu‐Chun , Chen Wei J. , Chen Wei‐Wen , Liao Lun‐De
Published: November 2024

Healthcare‐associated infection (HAI) is the most common adverse medical event that affects patients. Internationally, healthcare workers (HCWs) are monitored for hand hygiene compliance to reduce HAI risk. While direct observation is considered the gold standard for monitoring, it has several disadvantages. To address this, the study focused on developing a comprehensive hand hygiene system that integrates the Internet of Things (IoT) hand hygiene with soap and water (HHW) and alcohol‐based formulation (HHA) monitoring, incorporates real‐time data visualization on a web interface to track HCWs' hand hygiene practices, and provides instant calculations of compliance and accuracy rates. This IoT system uses Bluetooth for HCW positioning and HHW detection, ultrasonic sensors for handwashing duration, and pressure sensors for HHA detection. Furthermore, a cloud server, database, and website are established to manage and display the data received by the IoT devices. To reduce HAI in Taiwan, hospitals must provide both HHW and HHA systems, and HCWs can choose either method when hand hygiene is necessary. The system achieved 72% accuracy in clinical practice within an adult intensive care unit (ICU).
Comparing 30 Versus 60 min Cognitively Loaded Physical Exercise on Cognitive Function and Physical Health in Community‐Dwelling Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Double‐Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kim Sung‐Hyeon , Shin Ho‐Jin , Baek Ji‐Eun , Park Ji Young , Kim May , Hahm Suk‐Chan , Cho Hwi‐Young
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is characterized by a mild decline in cognitive function and represents a risk stage for dementia in community‐dwelling older adults. Exercise and dual‐task training have been used to improve physical health, psychosocial health, and cognitive and learning functions in various subjects. However, the optimal time for these interventions has yet to be clearly identified. This study investigated the effects of cognitively loaded physical exercise (CLPE) on cognitive function and physical health in community‐dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment and compared the differences according to exercise time.

Methods

Fifty‐one community‐dwelling aged 60 years or older with MCI were randomly assigned to 30‐min CLPE (30CLPE, n = 17), 60‐min CLPE (60CLPE, n = 17), and control (n = 17) groups. The CLPE program consisted of a twice‐weekly exercise program for 8 weeks. During the exercise, a dual task was performed to assess cognitive load. The control group performed a typical exercise program at a dementia center during the same period. The Korean version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment was used to evaluate cognitive function, and various physical health factors were assessed using the handgrip dynamometer and pinch gauge, Senior Fitness Test, dynamic and static balance abilities, and gait variables.

Results

After the intervention, both the 30CLPE and 60CLPE groups showed significant improvements in cognitive function, upper limb strength, senior fitness, balance, and gait (p < 0.05), while the control group showed no significant changes in any of the variables (p > 0.05). In between‐group comparisons, both CLPE groups showed significantly improved cognitive and physical functions compared to the control group (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the 30 CLPE and 60 CLPE groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The results of this study demonstrate that cognitively loaded physical exercise is effective in improving cognitive and physical function in individuals with MCI. Both the 30‐min and 60‐min sessions resulted in significant improvements, with no statistically significant differences observed between the two durations. This suggests that persistence and consistency of exercise may be more important than the duration of individual sessions.

Trial Registration

Clinical Trials.gov: KCT0009053
Non‐invasive Assessment of Cerebral Hemodynamics Using Resting‐State Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Multiple Sclerosis and Age‐Related White Matter Lesions
Authors: Khalil Ahmed , Asseyer Susanna , Rust Rebekka , Schmitz‐Hübsch Tanja , Fiebach Jochen B. , Paul Friedemann , Chien Claudia
Published: November 2024

Perfusion changes in white matter (WM) lesions and normal‐appearing brain regions play an important pathophysiological role in multiple sclerosis (MS). However, most perfusion imaging methods require exogenous contrast agents, the repeated use of which is discouraged. Using resting‐state functional MRI (rs‐fMRI), we aimed to investigate differences in perfusion between white matter lesions and normal‐appearing brain regions in MS and healthy participants. A total of 41 MS patients and 41 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy participants received rs‐fMRI, from which measures of cerebral hemodynamics and oxygenation were extracted and compared across brain regions and study groups using within‐ and between‐group nonparametric tests, linear mixed models, and robust multiple linear regression. We found longer blood arrival times and lower blood volumes in lesions than in normal‐appearing WM. Higher blood volumes were found in MS patients' deep WM lesions compared to healthy participants, and blood arrival time was more delayed in MS patients' deep WM lesions than in healthy participants. Delayed blood arrival time in the cortical grey matter was associated with greater cognitive impairment in MS patients. Perfusion imaging using rs‐fMRI is useful for WM lesion characterization. rs‐fMRI‐based blood arrival times and volumes are associated with cognitive function.
Additional Cover
Authors: Sharbel Daniel , Lin Chen , Topf Michael C. , Mannion Kyle
Published: November 2024

Additional Cover: The cover image is based on the article The internal mammary artery perforator flap in pharyngoesophageal, cervical tracheal, and cutaneous neck reconstruction by Daniel Sharbel MD et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/hed.27769.

image
Improvements in Hemodynamics and Right Heart Remodeling Following Balloon Pulmonary Angioplasty Treatment in Patients With Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Shen Qi‐Le , Zhao Qin‐Hua , Li Hui‐Ting , Deng Jie , He Jing , Wang Lan , Gong Su‐Gang , Liu Jin‐Ming
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the hemodynamic alterations and right heart remodeling dynamics in patients with inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) undergoing treatment with balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study involved a cohort of 31 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of CTEPH. Comprehensive clinical evaluations were systematically performed before BPA, and at 3 and 6 months following the procedure.

Results

Significant clinical progress was evidenced by the uplift in the percentage of patients achieving WHO‐FC II, escalating from 19.35% at baseline to 51.61% at 6 months after BPA (p = 0.003). NT‐proBNP levels significantly dropped from a median of 614.6 to 69.9 pg/mL (p < 0.001). Hemodynamic assessments showed significant decreases in mean PAP from 45.53 ± 11.19 to 22.56 ± 5.81 mmHg (p < 0.001) and PVR from 8.33 to 2.86 WU (p < 0.001). Echocardiographic analysis revealed substantial reductions in the right atrial area (RAA, from 20.29 ± 7.55 to 16.79 ± 4.82 cm2, p < 0.001) and right ventricular internal diameter (RVID, from 4.13 ± 0.79 to 3.68 ± 0.59 cm, p = 0.001) at the 3‐month interval post‐BPA. These improvements were sustained or even enhanced by the 6‐month mark, with RAA and RVID further diminishing (to 14.46 ± 3.78 cm2 and 3.29 ± 0.54 cm, respectively; both p < 0.01). The TAPSE/PASP ratios showed progressive improvement from baseline (0.32 ± 0.13) to 3 months (0.42 ± 0.13) and continued to improve at 6 months following BPA (0.50 ± 0.11, p = 0.04 compared to 3 months post‐BPA).

Conclusion

BPA has significantly ameliorated clinical conditions, hemodynamic profiles, and initiated a continued reversal in right heart remodeling in patients with CTEPH.
Identifying Subsurface Connectivity From Observations: Experimentation With Equifinality Defines Both Challenges and Pathways to Progress
Authors: Bishop Kevin , Ameli Ali , Grabs Thomas , Laudon Hjalmar , Amvrosiadi Nino , Kolbe Tamara , Seibert Jan , van Meerveld Ilja
Published: November 2024

Linkages between landscapes and streams are increasingly described in terms of hydrological connectivity. The ability to effectively distinguish different patterns of water movement through catchments makes connectivity particularly interesting to both scientists and practical water managers. Hydrometric data (groundwater levels, soil moisture and streamflow) are often employed to infer the connection between the landscape and its drainage network. Such observational data, however, are insufficient to infer subsurface connectivity in humid settings with perennial stream flow, due to the risk of equifinality. To quantify how much subsurface flow patterns can differ and still be consistent (equifinal) with comprehensive observations of hillslope groundwater levels and stream runoff (the hydrometric data), this study used a modelling experiment based on a well‐characterised field site. Particle‐tracking simulations at different flow rates defined the water flow paths and transit times of two virtual hillslopes that differed profoundly in the vertical distribution of the saturated hydraulic conductivity. Even though the simulated weekly stream flows and groundwater levels were similar (i.e., the hillslopes were hydrometrically equifinal) particle velocities and water ages at specific locations along these hillslopes differed by orders of magnitude. Flow path lengths and catchment transit times varied up to several 100%. The hillslope‐ and stream‐based metrics used to describe connectivity also varied with stream flow rates. These results underline the need to recognise the risks for equifinality when inferring subsurface connectivity from hydrometric observations alone, even when those observations are comprehensive. The results also highlight the value of model simulations for quantifying the uncertainty in the inferred connectivity, targeting the best sampling locations/times to reduce this uncertainty with tracer data and better understanding the way connectivity influences stream chemistry.
Associations among negative weight‐related experiences, weight bias internalization, and body‐related self‐conscious emotions in adolescents: A daily diary study
Authors: Lucibello Kristen M. , Sabiston Catherine M. , Murray Ross M. , Pila Eva , Arbour‐Nicitopoulos Kelly , Gilchrist Jenna D.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The present study examined the between‐ and within‐person associations among negative weight‐related experiences, weight bias internalization, and body shame, embarrassment, and pride in adolescents.

Methods

Participants were 93 Canadian students (Mage = 15.54, 59.10% girls, 40.86% white) who completed a 5‐day daily diary study in 2021. Multilevel models were estimated to examine the between‐ and within‐person associations, as well as the cross‐level interactions.

Results

Fifty‐nine negative weight‐related experiences were reported from 22 participants (23.66%) over the 5‐day study period. Adolescents with higher average negative weight‐related experiences (OR = 19.60, 95% CI = 1.90–202.67) and weight bias internalization (OR = 3.66, CI = 2.07–6.46) had greater odds of reporting shame. Similarly, higher average negative weight‐related experiences (OR = 16.29, CI = 3.65–72.75) and weight bias internalization (OR = 2.08, CI = 1.53–2.82) was associated with greater odds of embarrassment. No within‐person effects were noted, such that reporting more negative weight‐related experiences or weight bias internalization than one's own average was not related to body emotions.

Conclusions

This distinction underscores that the persistent, rather than episodic, aspects of negative weight‐related experiences and weight bias internalization are most impactful on adolescents’ body image. These findings have implications for recruitment and screening for individual‐level interventions for internalized weight bias and body image, and highlight the need for system‐level policies and changes that prohibit negative weight‐related experiences and messages to reduce likelihood of internalizing weight bias among adolescents.
Multiple Structural Breaks in Interactive Effects Panel Data Models
Authors: Ditzen Jan , Karavias Yiannis , Westerlund Joakim
Published: November 2024

This paper develops new econometric methods for multiple structural break detection in panel data models with interactive fixed effects. The new methods include tests for the presence of structural breaks, estimators for the number of breaks and their location, and a method for constructing asymptotically valid break date confidence intervals. The new methodology is applied to a large panel of US banks for a period characterized by massive quantitative easing programs aimed at lessening the impact of the global financial crisis and the COVID‐19 pandemic. The question we ask is as follows: Have these programs been successful in spurring bank lending in the US economy? The short answer turns out to be: “No”.
Lean Mass Longitudinally Confounds Sedentary Time and Physical Activity With Blood Pressure Progression in 2513 Children
Authors: Agbaje Andrew O.
Published: November 2024

Background

Randomized controlled trials have reported no effect of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) on reducing blood pressure (BP) in youth, probably due to short trial durations. This study examined the longitudinal effect of sedentary time (ST), light PA (LPA) and MVPA on BP in 11‐year‐old children followed up for 13 years to determine the confounding and mediating role of body composition.

Methods

Data included 2513 children from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), UK birth cohort who had data on at least one time‐point measure of accelerometer‐based movement behaviour across the follow‐up and complete BP measures at ages 11, 15 and 24 years. Body composition was assessed with dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry at all time points. Multivariate adjusted generalized linear mixed‐effect model and structural equation causal mediation model analyses were conducted.

Results

Among 2513 participants (61% female, mean [SD] age 11.72 [0.21] years), ST steadily increased from ~6 h/day in childhood (age 11 years) to ~9 h/day in young adulthood (age 24 years), whereas LPA and MVPA decreased, but BP had an inverted U‐shaped increase. In the longitudinal analysis, after full adjustment, a 1‐min cumulative ST from ages 11 to 24 years was positively associated with increased systolic BP (0.009 mmHg [95% CI 0.007–0.011]; p < 0.001) and diastolic BP. A 1‐min cumulative LPA was inversely associated with systolic BP (−0.007 mmHg [−0.009 to −0.004]; p < 0.001), but not diastolic BP. In isotemporal substitution analyses, longitudinal replacement of 10 min of ST with equal time in LPA during childhood, adolescence and young adulthood cumulatively decreased systolic BP by −2.63 mmHg [95% CI −3.17 to −2.08] (p < 0.0001) and diastolic BP by −1.93 mmHg [95% CI −2.36 to −1.50] (p < 0.0001). Replacing 10 min of ST with 10 min of MVPA had no statistically significant effect due to an absolute confounding effect of lean mass. The association of ST with systolic BP was fully mediated by increased lean mass (93% mediation). Increased total fat mass partially mediated (19%–27%) the inverse associations of cumulative MVPA with cumulative systolic and diastolic BP.

Conclusions

Theoretically replacing 10 min/day spent sedentary with 10 min/day of LPA during growth from childhood through young adulthood may lower systolic BP by −3 mmHg and diastolic BP by −2 mmHg. Lean mass seems more significant than fat mass in the relations of ST and PA with BP and should be accounted for in future intervention studies in the paediatric and young adult population.
Combined LinkNet‐MBi‐LSTM for brain activity recognition with new Stockwell transform features
Authors: Takawale Amruta Jagadish , Paithane Ajay N.
Published: November 2024

Recognizing brain activity from EEG waves is an important field of study in biomedical engineering and neuroscience. Conventional approaches usually begin with signal processing techniques to extract features from the EEG data, and then machine learning algorithms are applied to classify the data. However, the spatial resolution of these EEG signals is low, which makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact location of the neural activity source in the brain. There are ongoing initiatives to use DL‐based brain activity recognition algorithms to overcome these constraints. Therefore, this work presents a novel hybrid framework for brain activity detection using the enhanced Stockwell transform and an EEG signal that is called LinkNet and modified bidirectional–long short‐term memory (LN‐MBi‐LSTM) model. This framework follows a methodical approach that includes stages for feature extraction, brain activity recognition and preprocessing. Firstly, the improved Weiner filtering (IWF) approach is used to preprocess the EEG input signal. The relevant features are then extracted using a feature extraction technique from the preprocessed EEG signal. To identify the brain activity, these recovered feature sets are subsequently processed separately using LinkNet and modified bidirectional–long short‐term memory (MBi‐LSTM). A thorough analysis that takes into account both simulation and experimental calculations is part of the validation process for the LN‐MBi‐LSTM model. Finally, this study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of the LN‐MBi‐LSTM framework by presenting a strong and verified model for brain activity recognition. With the highest precision of 0.997, the LinkNet‐MBi‐LSTM model distinguishes itself from other models and confirms its exceptional capacity to produce accurate positive predictions.
Effects of Silver Nanoparticles on Ctenopharyngodon idella: Synthesis, Characterization, Antibacterial Activity, and Toxicological Assessment
Authors: Kakakhel Mian Adnan , Jamil Arshad , Narwal Nishita
Published: November 2024

Currently, nanotechnology (NT) and nanoparticles (NPs) have gained significant attention in the scientific field due to their diverse application history. Particularly, in environmental applications, their antibacterial efficiency in fisheries due to antibacterial resistance. However, the NPs have been found toxic in the environment. Therefore, the current study aimed to fabricate less toxic NPs using environmentally dried leaves to check their antibacterial efficacy and possible toxicity against grass carp. The findings confirmed the good dispersity of obtained AgNPs, which further showed promising antibacterial activity against several bacterial isolates including Staphylococcus with a zone of inhibition (23.73 ± 0.57 nm). Also, the AgNPs were exposed to the grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) for possible toxicity and toxic effects. First, the bioaccumulation of AgNPs was significantly observed in gills followed by intestines and muscles (p < 0.05). Finally, the AgNPs mainly accumulate in the liver, followed by the intestine, gills, and muscles. Additionally, the deposition of AgNPs in various organs resulted in histological alteration such as necrosis and infiltration of red blood cells in the intestine and the fusion of gill lamella. Hence, the synthesized NPs using dried leaf extract could be a promising approach in applied science. The significant features of the nanoparticles in the present work using green synthesis can help in synthesizing less toxic materials.
New insights into the mechanisms of red blood cell enucleation: From basics to clinical applications
Authors: Zhuo Qianli , Zhang Zhaojun , Fang Xiangdong
Published: November 2024

Background

Red blood cell (RBC) enucleation is a crucial step in the process of erythropoiesis. By removing the nucleus, RBCs gain greater flexibility, enabling them to traverse narrow capillaries with ease, thereby enhancing the efficiency of oxygen and carbon dioxide transport. This transformation underscores the intricate balance between cellular structure and function essential for maintaining homeostasis.

Topic

This review delves into the multifaceted enucleation process, outlining its complex steps that encompass protein sorting, vesicle trafficking, cytoskeletal remodeling, and apoptosis regulation, while also exploring the potential of enhancing the enucleation rate of RBCs in vitro. We emphasize the intricate regulation of this process, which is orchestrated by multiple factors. This includes transcription factors that meticulously guide protein synthesis and sorting through the modulation of gene expression, as well as non‐coding RNAs that play a pivotal role in post‐transcriptional regulation during various stages of RBC enucleation. Additionally, macrophages participate in the enucleation process by engulfing and clearing the extruded nuclei, further ensuring the proper development of RBCs. Although many studies have deeply explored the molecular mechanisms of enucleation, the roles of apoptosis and anti‐apoptotic processes in RBC enucleation remain incompletely understood.

Implication

In this review, we aim to comprehensively summarize the RBC enucleation process and explore the progress made in ex vivo RBC generation. In the future, a deeper understanding of the enucleation process could provide significant benefits to patients suffering from anemia and other related conditions.
Static Approximate Modified Mirror—Full Adder for High Speed and Low Power Operations Using 32 nm CNTFET Technology
Authors: Juneja Sagar , Elangovan M. , Sharma Kulbhushan
Published: November 2024

The error tolerance nature of the digital multimedia applications enables the implementation of approximate digital circuits to achieve the benefits of high speed of operation and low power consumption. This paper proposes a static approximate modified mirror full adder (SAMM‐FA) circuit designed using logic level approximation to reduce the number of transistors in the circuit. Owing to the balanced electrical characteristics, better stability and higher on‐current to off‐current ratio (Ion/Ioff), 32 nm carbon nanotube field effect transistor (CNTFET) technology has been used for implementing the proposed circuit in the Cadence Virtuoso tool. Featuring only 10 transistors and operating at a supply voltage of 0.5 V, the proposed SAMM‐FA has a low power dissipation of just 4.14 nW, and propagation delay of just 3.82 ps. The power delay product and energy delay product figure of merits of the proposed circuit are found to be excellent when compared with the contemporary designs.
Trend Analysis and Spatial Behaviour of the Fire Weather Index in the Mediterranean Iberian Peninsula, 1971–2022
Authors: Orgambides‐García David , Corell David , Estrela María José , Barberà María Jesús , Miró Javier
Published: November 2024

The Fire Weather Index (FWI) is a widely used metric to estimate the wildfire risk based on climatological variables. As anthropogenic climate change is expected to increase wildfire risk by affecting the climate of the Mediterranean Iberian Peninsula, we assess the expected increase in wildfire risk during the past decades. For this purpose, we employ a dataset containing daily FWI values in a 0.25° × 0.25° grid for each day of a 52‐year period, between 1971 and 2022, and perform a trend analysis at a statistically significant level. We evaluate the relation between FWI and spatial (altitude, latitude, and distance to the sea) variables to look for significant correlations. An analysis is performed at the geographic level by focusing on changes in concrete, relatively homogenous zones (subregions) to broadly study spatial patterns of change. The most relevant results are (1) the FWI shows an increasing trend across the study area (0.01 confidence level); (2) the FWI is determined by temperature variations on a multiyear scale, but annually by more volatile precipitation patterns; (3) the FWI does not uniformly behave across either space or time, and is subject to different variations in different zones; (4) summer and winter are the seasons with the most significant increase, and autumn is the only not significant season; (5) very high or extreme risks are increasingly prevalent across the territory, increasing wildfire risk and (6) the FWI more rapidly rises in areas further north, at a longer distance to the sea and at higher altitudes, with the Iberian System being the most affected region. The increase in wildfire risk requires putting in place more preventive measures. Our study results coincide with climatological trend studies on the region and bridge a knowledge gap as regards the historical climatology of the FWI.
Extreme Rainfall Analysis in Pernambuco, Northeast Brazil, Using a High‐Resolution Gridded Dataset
Authors: Gomes Vanessa Karoline Inácio , da Silva Antonio Samuel Alves , Araújo Lidiane da Silva , Stosic Tatijana
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a detailed spatio‐temporal analysis of the rainfall in the state of Pernambuco, Northeast Brazil. It is based on climate indices for extreme precipitation recommended by the Expert Team on Climate Change Detection, Monitoring and Indices. To accomplish this, daily rainfall 1data (1961–2019) were extracted from 809 high‐resolution grid points (0.1° × 0.1°) using the Brazilian Daily Weather Gridded Data (BR‐DWGD). The significance and magnitude of index trends were assessed using the modified Mann–Kendall and Sen's slope tests. This study also examined whether there existed a significant difference in climate indices among the three regions (Sertão, Agreste and Zona da Mata) within the state. The findings revealed notable significant negative trends in the PRCPTOT, R10mm, R20mm, Rx1day, Rx5day and CWD indices across all regions of Pernambuco, exhibiting a gradient from the coast to the state's interior. Reduction values of up to 15 mm year−1 for PRCPTOT, 0.7 day year−1 for R10mm, 0.2 day year−1 for R20mm, 0.01 mm year−1 for Rx1day, 0.03 mm year−1 for Rx5day, 0.4 day year−1 for CWD were observed. Furthermore, an alarming pattern was also noted for CDD, displaying a higher concentration of significant positive trends in all regions of the state, with estimated increases of up to 1.4 day year−1. Conversely, a balance of trends—both positive and negative—was observed across the entire state for R95p and R99p, with a majority of trends proving non‐significant. SDII exhibited a higher frequency of grid points showing a significant positive trend, particularly notable in the Sertão and Zona da Mata regions, where significant differences in the index values were absent. However, the remaining indices showcased notable regional differences, with values decreasing from the east to the west of the state, except for CDD. This study will assist decision makers, providing detailed long‐term information essential for preventing natural disasters and supporting socioeconomic and environmental policies in the state.
Effect of Particle Size on Raman Signal Strength of Silicate Minerals
Authors: Breitenfeld Laura B. , Dyar M. Darby , Sklute Elizabeth C. , Legett Carey
Published: November 2024

Understanding the effects of particle size is necessary for quantifying minerals in mixtures using Raman spectroscopy. Raman signal intensity is evaluated using six common silicate minerals (two olivines, two pyroxenes, and two feldspars) at 10 particle size ranges. For olivines and feldspars, the highest peak intensities are observed in samples with 38–63 and 63–106 μm particle sizes. There is no such consistent trend for the pyroxene samples, although the overall low signal strength complicates those measurements. Raman spectra of samples with varying particle sizes appear to be influenced by two competing effects: scattering from particle boundaries and effective sampling volume.
Debittering and antioxidant improvement of soy protein hydrolysates using curcumin as hydrophobic core
Authors: Chen Jiafeng , Wei Cuilan , Hou Junjie , Wang Jinmei , Ruan Qijun
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Protein hydrolysates possess various bioactive functions (e.g. antioxidant), but their bitter taste is unacceptable to most consumers. In the present study, a novel approach for debittering was introduced, which involved the utilization of a hydrophobic compound, curcumin (Cur). Soy protein hydrolysates (SPH), prepared through alcalase hydrolysis, served as the research model for this investigation.

RESULTS

It was found that bitter intensity of SPH was dominated by the hydrophobic amino acid residues, and the addition of Cur could remarkably reduce bitterness. The debittering mechanism is attributed to the direct binding of Cur to the exposed hydrophobic amino acid residues of SPH via hydrophobic interaction, thereby shielding the hydrophobic bitter groups and hindering their interaction with the bitter taste receptors. Moreover, this debittering strategy leads to the generation of stable nanoparticles with a Cur‐core/SPH‐shell architecture, which can significantly improve the antioxidant capacity of SPH compared to those using biomacromolecules for encapsulation.

CONCLUSION

Using curcumin as a hydrophobic core is a facile and feasible strategy with bifunction of debittering as well as improving bioactive effect of SPH, which may extend its application in foods. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The role of chemotherapy in the management of pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma
Authors: Woo Kimberly P. , Wehrle Chase J. , Remulla Daphne , Chang Jenny H. , Naples Robert , Joyce Daniel , Simon Robert , Augustin Toms , Walsh R. Matthew , Naffouje Samer A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma (pACC) is a rare malignancy with unique clinical and molecular features. The role of chemotherapy in pACC management is not well established.

Methods

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) for pACC was used. Cox regression was used in resected pACC patients to identify significant overall survival (OS) predictors. Patients were then divided based on these risk factors into propensity‐matched group of surgery versus surgery + chemotherapy and Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed with log‐rank tests to compare OS.

Results

The NCDB 2004–2020 included 1592 pACC patients, 1553 were selected. Median age was 66 and 1090 (70.2%) were males. 622 (40.1%) received chemotherapy only, 257 (16.5%) had surgery only, and 365 (23.5%) had both. 189 Patients who received surgery were only matched to peers who had surgery + chemotherapy. The median OS for surgery only was 57.8 ± 6.0 versus 54.2 ± 9.9 months for surgery + chemotherapy (p = 0.836). Cox regression identified nodal and margin status as independent predictors of OS. Therefore, subgroups of patients with node‐negative, node‐positive, margin‐negative, and margin‐positive resections were similarly matched 1:1 for the receipt of surgery only versus surgery + chemotherapy. Only patients with node‐positive disease had a significant OS benefit with the addition of chemotherapy (44.2 ± 7.3 vs. 27.5 ± 10.5 months; p = 0.036).

Conclusion

Our analysis suggests that surgical resection remains the cornerstone of therapy for pACC. Node status and margin status are the primary prognosticators. The addition of chemotherapy provides an OS benefit only in node‐positive disease.
Lymphaticovenular Anastomosis as a Treatment for Neurogenic Bladder in Patients With Lower Extremity Lymphedema After Gynecologic Cancer Treatment
Authors: Seki Yukio , Okino Teruhito , Nemoto Hitoshi , Imai Hirofumi , Karakawa Ryo , Kajikawa Akiyoshi , Asai Rintaro , Tomochika Mayo , Yano Tomoyuki
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives

Neurogenic bladder (NB), a complication of gynecological cancer treatment, entails significant symptoms such as loss of urinary urgency, incontinence, and renal dysfunction. To investigate whether lymphatic fluid stagnation at the pelvis causes NB, we investigated the effectiveness of lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA) for NB.

Methods

In this retrospective study between 2014 and April 2024, LVA was performed on 52 patients complaining of preoperative urinary dysfunction with lower extremity lymphedema following pelvic lymphadenectomy in gynecologic cancer treatment. Pre‐ and postoperative assessments evaluated NB symptoms and volume reduction of lower extremities.

Results

With an average follow‐up period of 35.0 months, the volume of the affected limbs was reduced in all patients. Symptoms of urinary function were improved in 44 out of 52 patients, as improved urinary urgency, disappearance of incontinence, and independence from self‐catheterization. Among 15 patients who underwent pre‐ and postoperative questionnaire assessment of NB, the mean score of NB severity decreased significantly from 16.9 ± 7.1 points preoperatively to 4.3 ± 3.6 points postoperatively (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The specific reason for NB following gynecologic cancer treatment remains unclear. Our study results suggest that lymphatic fluid stagnation itself might be a reason for NB and LVA could reduce these symptoms.
Automated classification of online reviews of otolaryngologists
Authors: Stenzel Jake G. , Schultz Nicholas R. , Marino Michael J.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The study aimed to extract online comments of otolaryngologists in the 20 most populated cities in the United States from healthgrades.com, develop and validate a natural language processing (NLP) logistic regression algorithm for automated text classification of reviews into 10 categories, and compare 1‐ and 5‐star reviews in directly‐physician‐related and non‐physician‐related categories.

Methods

1977 1‐star and 12,682 5‐star reviews were collected. The primary investigator manually categorized a training dataset of 324 1‐star and 909 5‐star reviews, while a validation subset of 100 5‐star and 50 1‐star reviews underwent dual manual categorization. Using scikit‐learn, an NLP algorithm was trained and validated on the subsets, with F1 scores evaluating text classification accuracy against manual categorization. The algorithm was then applied to the entire dataset with comparison of review categorization according to 1‐ and 5‐star reviews.

Results

F1 scores for NLP validation ranged between 0.71 and 0.97. Significant associations emerged between 1‐star reviews and treatment plan, accessibility, wait time, office scheduling, billing, and facilities. 5‐star reviews were associated with surgery/procedure, bedside manner, and staff/mid‐levels.

Conclusion

The study successfully validated an NLP text classification system for categorizing online physician reviews. Positive reviews were found to have an association with directly‐physician related context. 1‐star reviews were related to treatment plan, accessibility, wait time, office scheduling, billing, and facilities. This method of text classification effectively discerned the nuances of human‐written text, providing valuable insights into online healthcare feedback that is scalable.

Level of evidence: Level 3
Study of Global Seawater Corrosivity Classification Based on Marine Environmental Factors Data
Authors: Zhang Penghui , Liu Shaotong , Ding Kangkang , Wu Shuai , Fan Lin
Published: November 2024

To evaluate the global seawater corrosivity and ensure the service safety of marine equipment, the methods of seawater corrosivity classification, which contained the standard metal corrosion rates method and the environmental factors evaluation method, are proposed and then applied to the seawater corrosivity classification in typical China seas. By comparing the results from both methods, the feasibility of the environmental factors evaluation method based on the grey relational model is verified. Furthermore, with the collection and processing of typical seawater factors data of global ocean, the corrosivity of global seawater is classified into six grades with the corrosion test data of carbon steel as baseline, and its distribution in different months is visualized by means of ArcGIS technology. The results show that the sea areas with high corrosivity are mainly located at equatorial and tropical sea areas, and for carbon steel, seawater temperature was the main influence on seawater corrosivity.
Advances in Self‐Healing Perovskite Solar Cells Enabled by Dynamic Polymer Bonds
Authors: Yuan Qisong , Chen Juxiang , Shi Chengyu , Shi Xiangrong , Sun Chenyu , Jiang Bo
Published: November 2024

This comprehensive review addresses the self‐healing phenomenon in perovskite solar cells (PSCs), emphasizing the reversible reactions of dynamic bonds as the pivotal mechanism. The crucial role of polymers in both enhancing the inherent properties of perovskite and inducing self‐healing phenomena in grain boundaries of perovskite films are exhibited. The review initiates with an exploration of the various stability problems that PSCs encounter, underscoring the imperative to develop PSCs with extended lifespans capable of self‐heal following damage from moisture and mechanical stress. Owing to the strong compatibility brought by polymer characteristics, many additive strategies can be employed in self‐healing PSCs through artful molecular design. These strategies aim to limit ion migration, prevent moisture ingress, alleviate mechanical stress, and enhance charge carrier transport. By scrutinizing the conditions, efficiency, and types of self‐healing behavior, the review encapsulates the principles of dynamic bonds in the polymers of self‐healing PSCs. The meticulously designed polymers not only improve the lifespan of PSCs through the action of dynamic bonds but also enhance their environmental stability through functional groups. In addition, an outlook on self‐healing PSCs is provided, offering strategic guidance for future research directions in this specialized area.
A Bibliometric Exploration of Multiple Criteria Decision Aid and Clustering—A Conceptual Taxonomy
Authors: Delias Pavlos , Doumpos Michalis
Published: November 2024

This work explores the intersection of Multiple Criteria Decision Aid (MCDA) and clustering techniques, revealing unexploited potential and novel perspectives arising from their integration, challenging their conventional separation. It serves as a compass, guiding researchers through a bibliometric exploration and a conceptual taxonomy consolidating existing knowledge. Employing a two‐fold methodology, we first sketch the field's contours through a bibliometric lens, uncovering its intellectual structure, thematic landscape, and social dynamics. Then, using science mapping techniques like co‐word analysis, historiography, and collaboration network analysis, we examine patterns, revealing an interconnected mosaic of concepts. Our findings unveil a natural grouping into three categories: (1) Mixed‐yet‐not‐integrated approaches, explores sequential applications—clustering followed by MCDA or vice versa—where one method precedes and informs the other. (2) ‘Relational/ordered clustering’ leveraging criteria dependency to refine structures. (3) Using MCDA to improve clustering mechanics through similarity metrics, domain knowledge incorporation, and robustness. We conclusively propose a taxonomy along three axes: Units of Analysis, Instrumentalisation, and Objective. The key takeaway emphasises the collaborative potential of MCDA, envisioning a landscape where the integration of MCDA and clustering not only enhances existing methodologies but also spawns innovative paradigms, fostering a symbiotic relationship that transcends conventional boundaries.
Atmospheric icing meteorological parameter study using field experiments and simulation
Authors: Han Xingbo , Virk Muhammad , Asif Hamza , Mäkynen Anssi , Juttula Harri , Molkoselkä Eero , Kaikkonen Ville A.
Published: November 2024

Atmospheric icing on ground structures is a concern from design, operation, and safety perspectives. Supercooled water droplets size and liquid water content (LWC) are important weather parameters to better understand the ice accretion physics on ground structures. Most existing studies are based on measurements at high altitude. The study is based on the field results of a specific event (from 9:30 to 22:27 h on October 29, 2022) in Arctic region of northern Norway. The data from this event are presented and used for analytical validation and simulation. Field measurements of different meteorological weather parameters including the droplet size and LWC are carried out leading to recording of resultant atmospheric ice load and intensity. A comprehensive study is also carried out to validate droplet collision efficiency and ice load using the existing analytical model ISO‐12494 and computational fluid dynamics (CFD)–based numerical simulations. Furthermore, the differences in icing simulation using parameters such as median volume diameter (MVD), Langmuir B –J as alternatives to the actual droplet size distribution (DSD) spectrum are also analyzed. The results show that under natural meteorological conditions, the characteristics of water DSD change in real time. Using MVD alone to calculate the water droplet collision efficiency on circular cylinders can lead to significant errors. Accurately selecting the Langmuir distribution as a substitute for the actual DSD can reduce simulation errors to within 5%. Compared to the analytical model, the numerical simulations result better reflects the collision characteristics of water droplets of different sizes on the cylindrical object.