bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Anti‐fouling loose polyamide nanofiltration membrane preparation by biodegradable sophorolipids for precise separation of simulated dyeing wastewater
Authors: Ding Xin‐Xi , Jiang Cheng , Li Mingguang , Li Xianghong , Shao Dan‐Dan 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackgroundStrengthening the recycling and utilization of resources is deeply significant in achieving carbon neutrality. The nanofiltration membranes possess separation ability within the nanoscale by utilizing special pore size ranges and surface charge properties, showing great application prospects in resource recycling. The commercial nanofiltration membranes are mainly prepared by interfacial polymerization with fast reaction speed and easy scaling‐up advantages. However, the obtained polyamide nanofiltration membranes possess dense selective layers with low permeance and separation efficiency to the molecules. Herein, the biodegradable surfactant sophorolipid was added to the aqueous solution to improve the performance of the polyamide nanofiltration membranes.ResultsCompared with the traditional nanofiltration membranes, the permeance of the sophorolipid‐modified nanofiltration membrane was improved from 3 to 18 L·m−2·h−1·bar−1. The modified membrane showed high rejection of the dyes with large molecular structures and low rejection of those with small molecular structures.ConclusionThe modified membrane may separate the mixed dye solution of congo red (molecular weight 696.66 g/mol) and indigo carmine (molecular weight 407.98 g/mol) and the mixed congo red/NaCl solution precisely. Besides, the modified membrane showed good anti‐fouling properties in the long‐term stability test. This study may offer research significance for the resource treatment of printing and dyeing wastewater. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Characteristics of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinomas Based on Circumferential Localization
Authors: Ishida Natsuki , Osawa Satoshi , Sugiura Kiichi , Takebe Tomohiro , Takahashi Kenichi , Asai Yusuke , Tamura Satoshi , Matsuura Tomoharu , Yamade Mihoko , Iwaizumi Moriya , Hamaya Yasushi , Yamada Takanori , Sugimoto Ken 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackground and AimIn terms of their longitudinal positioning, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) commonly arises in the middle segment of the esophagus. However, limited attention has been given to the circumferential aspect. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of ESCC lesions resected via endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), taking into consideration both longitudinal and circumferential positions.MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated 193 ESD‐resected ESCC lesions and compared the occurrence rate of ESCC development and the degree of histopathological invasion across various circumferential and longitudinal positions. We scrutinized lesion characteristics by location, with a particular focus on the proportion of early‐stage small lesions in each site.ResultsRegarding lesion location, 27 were situated on the anterior wall, 62 on the left, 66 on the posterior, and 38 on the right. Among the four circumferential positions, the anterior wall group had the smallest median tumor size. Additionally, the anterior wall group had the highest proportions of lesions with invasion depths limited to the epithelial layer and sizes < 10 mm, at 44.4% and 25.9%, respectively. Furthermore, a significant difference was noted among the four circumferential positions with respect to the proportion of ESCC lesions satisfying both criteria, with the highest proportion observed in the anterior wall group (p = 0.049).ConclusionsOur findings suggest that while ESCC occurrence on the anterior wall is less frequent, these lesions may present as small lesions with superficial invasion depths.
Development and Validation of a Deep Learning System to Differentiate HER2‐Zero, HER2‐Low, and HER2‐Positive Breast Cancer Based on Dynamic Contrast‐Enhanced MRI
Authors: Dai Yi , Lian Chun , Zhang Zhuo , Gao Jing , Lin Fan , Li Ziyin , Wang Qi , Chu Tongpeng , Aishanjiang Dilinuer , Chen Meiying , Wang Ximing , Cheng Guanxun , Huang Rong , Dong Jianjun , Zhang Haicheng , Mao Ning 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundPrevious studies explored MRI‐based radiomic features for differentiating between human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)‐zero, HER2‐low, and HER2‐positive breast cancer, but deep learning's effectiveness is uncertain.PurposeThis study aims to develop and validate a deep learning system using dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI (DCE‐MRI) for automated tumor segmentation and classification of HER2‐zero, HER2‐low, and HER2‐positive statuses.Study TypeRetrospective.PopulationOne thousand two hundred ninety‐four breast cancer patients from three centers who underwent DCE‐MRI before surgery were included in the study (52 ± 11 years, 811/204/279 for training/internal testing/external testing).Field Strength/Sequence3 T scanners, using T1‐weighted 3D fast spoiled gradient‐echo sequence, T1‐weighted 3D enhanced fast gradient‐echo sequence and T1‐weighted turbo field echo sequence.AssessmentAn automated model segmented tumors utilizing DCE‐MRI data, followed by a deep learning models (ResNetGN) trained to classify HER2 statuses. Three models were developed to distinguish HER2‐zero, HER2‐low, and HER2‐positive from their respective non‐HER2 categories.Statistical TestsDice similarity coefficient (DSC) was used to evaluate the segmentation performance of the model. Evaluation of the model performances for HER2 statuses involved receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and the area under the curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity. The P‐values <0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultsThe automatic segmentation network achieved DSC values of 0.85 to 0.90 compared to the manual segmentation across different sets. The deep learning models using ResNetGN achieved AUCs of 0.782, 0.776, and 0.768 in differentiating HER2‐zero from others in the training, internal test, and external test sets, respectively. Similarly, AUCs of 0.820, 0.813, and 0.787 were achieved for HER2‐low vs. others, and 0.792, 0.745, and 0.781 for HER2‐positive vs. others, respectively.Data ConclusionThe proposed DCE‐MRI‐based deep learning system may have the potential to preoperatively distinct HER2 expressions of breast cancers with therapeutic implications.Evidence Level4Technical EfficacyStage 3
Assessment of Age‐Related Microstructure Changes in Thigh Skeletal Muscle Based on Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging
Authors: Wang Yiou , Yang Yiqiong , Qiu Ziru , Chen Yanjun , Zhang Xinru , Qiu Qianyi , Yang Yi , Xie Qinglin , Zhang Xinyuan , Zhang Xiaodong 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundNeurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) could offer information about the morphological properties of tissue. Diffusion microstructure imaging has been widely used, but the applicability of NODDI in skeletal muscle imaging remains to be explored.PurposeTo evaluate microstructure parameters variations in skeletal muscle as indicators of age‐related changes.Study TypeProspective, cross‐sectional.PopulationA total of 108 asymptomatic volunteers, divided into three age groups: 20–39 years (N = 34), 40–59 years (N = 40), and over 60 years (N = 34).Field Strength/Sequence3‐T, three‐dimensional (3D) gradient echo sequence.AssessmentT1‐weighted imaging, T2‐weighted imaging with spectral adiabatic inversion recovery, and NODDI were used to image the thigh skeletal muscles. Four thigh skeletal muscle groups were analyzed, including bilateral thigh quadriceps femoris and hamstrings. The microstructure parameters included orientation dispersion index (ODI), intra‐myofibrillar water volume fraction (V‐intra), free‐water fraction (V‐csf), fractional anisotropy (FA), and mean diffusivity (MD). These parameters were quantified using NODDI images and compared among different age, body mass index (BMI), and skeletal muscle index (SMI) subgroups.Statistical TestsSegmentation measurement reliability was assessed using a two‐way mixed intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Shapiro–Wilk tests were used to assess data distribution. Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare ODI, V‐intra, V‐csf, FA, and MD values among different age, BMI, and SMI subgroups. The Spearman correlation coefficient was utilized to assess the strength of the correlation between the age and microstructure parameters, as well as between age and SMI. Additionally, Bonferroni post hoc tests were conducted on microstructure parameters that exhibited significant differences across various age groups. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsSignificant differences in ODI, V‐csf, FA, and MD values were observed among age, BMI, and SMI subgroups.Data ConclusionNODDI may be used to reveal information about microstructure integrity and local physiological changes of thigh skeletal muscle fibers in relation to age.Level of Evidence2Technical EfficacyStage 2
Comparison of the efficiency of improved and traditional fish smoking kilns and their effects on smoked fish quality in Ghana
Authors: Asamoah Eunice Konadu , Nunoo Francis Kofi Ewusie , Addo Samuel , Nyarko Josephine Owusuwaa , Adjei Maame Yaakwaah Blay , Kunadu Angela Parry‐Hanson , Hyldig Grethe 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDFish smoking is a traditional fish preservation method that is affordable, and hence employed by most artisanal fish processors in Ghana. Traditional kilns are used but are less fuel efficient and the end‐product has lower quality. This study therefore sought to test and compare the efficiency and quality of smoked fish for two improved kilns, the Cabin and Abuesi gas fish smoker (AGFS), against the traditional Chorkor smoker.RESULTSThe results showed that the AGFS and Cabin had specific fuel consumption of 0.31 ± 0.02 and 0.67 ± 0.01 g kg−1 of smoked fish, respectively, which were significantly lower than that of the Chorkor (6 ± 0.12 g kg−1 smoked fish). Again, the AGFS and Cabin had significantly higher processing rates (251.18 ± 10.65 and 156.80 ± 8.30 g min−1, respectively) compared to the Chorkor (135.20 ± 5.60 g min−1). Smoking improved the nutritional, microbiological and sensory quality of mackerel, with only the sensory quality being statistically different between the products from the AGFS and Cabin. The Cabin‐smoked products had more traditional smoked fish attributes while the gas‐smoked products had a pronounced fried appearance and taste.CONCLUSIONThe AGFS and Cabin were more efficient than the Chorkor. There were no significant differences in the nutritional and microbial quality between the AGFS and the Cabin. Cabin‐smoked products, however, had the more traditional qualities of smoked fish (appearance and flavor) that the gas‐smoked products lacked. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Vegetation Cover Changes and Environmental Drivers in Typical Desert Fringe Areas of Northern China
Authors: Zhao Yachao , Pei Hongze , Zhang Tinglong , Bu Chongfeng , Zhang Qingfeng 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTChina is among the nations experiencing severe desertification, and several policies have been enacted to mitigate this issue. A thorough understanding of how natural processes and socioeconomic factors interact to shape the distribution of local vegetation is crucial to effectively address the widespread problem of desertification. This study investigates the dynamics of vegetation and environmental influences at the margins of deserts by utilizing MODIS data products. Through the application of the maximum synthesis method, trend analysis, and the geodetector method, this study offers a comprehensive exploration of vegetation changes and the underlying environmental factors shaping these changes. These findings indicate a discernible trend of increasing vegetation cover and notable spatiotemporal heterogeneity in desertification management in the study areas over the last 21 years. The Ta region (desert fringe of the Taklamakan Desert) presented the lowest vegetation growth rate (0.294%), followed by the Te region (desert fringe of the Tengger Desert) (0.505%), whereas the Mu region (desert fringe of the Mu Us sandy land) presented the highest growth rate (1.055%), indicating a gradient of recovery from west to east. The findings of this research indicate that the spatial pattern of vegetation distribution is determined by natural factors. However, socioeconomic factors have greater explanatory power than natural factors in explaining the local vegetation distribution. Additionally, the study underscores that the interaction between socioeconomic and natural factors holds greater significance than the influence of any single factor. These results offer valuable insights with practical implications for addressing desertification in China.
Ultrathin, Wavelength‐Multiplexed and Integrated Holograms and Optical Neural Networks Based on 2D Perovskite Nanofilms
Authors: Hu Jinming , Zhu Shengting , Lv Ying , Guo Ronghui , Gu Min , Zhang Yinan 
Published: December 2024

AbstractHolography, as a technique for coherent wavefront reconstruction, is extensively used in numerous optical applications such as optical imaging, 3D display, photolithography, and optical artificial intelligence. In order to achieve highly compact and functional integration with optoelectronic devices, the hologram needs to possess ultrathin thickness as well as multicolor functionality. However, its thickness is typically limited to optical wavelength ranges due to the requirement for pronounced amplitude or phase modulation, and it generally operates at a single wavelength band without wavelength‐multiplexed channels. Here, the hologram is decreased thickness to sub‐ten nanometers by exploiting the large refractive index and strong exciton absorption of 2D perovskites. Ultrathin perovskite holograms and holographic neural networks with high stability are successfully developed by using femtosecond laser direct writing, and their operation wavelength can be rationally tuned from 400–515 nm through halide anion engineering. Consequently, the wavelength can be multiplexed with low cross‐talks by stacked perovskite nanolayers for applications of holographic display and neural networks without the usages of complex optical structures or filters. This work provides a feasible and promising technical route for integrating ultrathin, high pixel density, and multiplexed holographic structures with flat optoelectronic devices for next‐generation integrated optical systems.
Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles via Dennettia tripetala Extracts: Optimization, Characterization, and Biological Activity Evaluation
Authors: Oluwaniyi Omolara Olusola , Oyewo Blessing Tarhe 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis study examined the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) with ethanolic extract from leaf and fruit of Dennettia tripetala (Class: Annonaceae) and the assessment of their biological activities. Mixing of Zn (C2H3O2)2.2H2O solution and the ethanolic extracts resulted in color change, indicating the formation of ZnONPs. pH, temperature, and concentration of metal ions were varied to optimize the amount of nanoparticles formed. Ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐Vis) spectroscopy gave a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at 356 nm (DTL‐ZnONPs) and 367 nm (DTF‐ZnONPs), confirming the presence of the synthesized ZnONPs. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows aggregation of spherical and rod‐like shaped nanoparticles. x‐Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis is crystalline in nature with an average crystallite size of 17.17 ((DTL‐ZnONPs) and 12.90 (DTF‐ZnONPs) nm. FT‐IR analysis showed O─H, C═O, N─H, and C─C stretching and aliphatic vibrations of hydrocarbon chains of the synthesized ZnONPs. The ZnONPs gave the maximum zone of inhibition of 18.07 (DTL‐ZnONP) and 17.14 mm (DTF‐ZnONP). Antioxidant activity carried out using DPPH radical scavenging gave an IC50 value of 227.18 (DTL‐ZnONP) and 201.21 (DTF‐ZnONP) µg/mL. Moreover, the cytotoxic effect of ZnONPs is in a concentration‐dependent manner. Therefore, this work showed that ZnONPs are good potential therapeutic agents for treating microbial infection, oxidative stress, and other pertinent disease.
Sustained Leadership Practices and Behaviours Following Postgraduate Leadership Education: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Middleton Rebekkah , Murray Suzanne , Peters Sally , Montgomery Amy , Halcomb Elizabeth 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTAimTo explore how postgraduate leadership education is translated into practice and how leadership practices and behaviours are sustained following completion of a leadership program.DesignA qualitative exploratory study using an appreciative inquiry approach.MethodsA single Health District, partnered with a regional university, offering a 12‐month leadership program, the Effective Leadership in Health Program.Four semi‐structured group interviews were undertaken with 11 registered nurses (RNs) and allied health professionals. Data were audio‐recorded and transcribed before being analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsFour themes were revealed relating to how the learning was translated and sustained in clinical practice, namely, within (1) self, (2) others, (3) relationships and (4) sustained leadership. All participants agreed that their participation in the leadership program impacted on their subsequent approach to leadership in multiple contexts, relationships and interactions.
Validation of Spanish Version of the Spirituality and Spiritual Care Rating Scale (SSCRS‐Sp) in Nursing Professionals
Authors: Fernández‐Pascual M. D. , Reig‐Ferrer A. , Martínez‐Rodríguez L. , Quesada‐Rico J. A. , McSherry W. , Riquelme‐Ros L. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTAimTo examine the reliability and construct validity of the Spanish adaptation of the Spirituality and Spiritual Care Rating Scale (SSCRS) within the nursing professionals' context.DesignObservational and descriptive cross‐sectional study.MethodsThe sample consisted of N = 325 nursing professionals from various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics and community healthcare centres. Following translation and cultural adaption of the SSCRS, the scale underwent psychometric assessment of its construct validity through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Internal consistency analysis was also performed using a McDonald's omega. The reporting in this investigation adhered to the STROBE checklist.ResultsThe exploratory factor analysis (EFA) revealed a two‐factor structure, with one factor closely aligning with one religiosity dimension and the other factor combining the spirituality, spiritual care and personalised care dimensions. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis did not provide an adequate fit to the data for both the two‐factor solution found in the EFA and the four‐factor solution proposed by McSherry, Draper, and Kendrick (2002). Even though the four‐factor solution showed a slightly better fit than the two‐factor solution, neither model achieved a satisfactory fit. The lack of formal education and confusion between religion and spirituality among healthcare professionals could have influenced the responses and interpretation of the results.ConclusionThe findings showed that the SSCRS‐Sp demonstrated good internal consistency, indicating that the items in the scale are reliably measuring the targeted constructs. Further refinement and validation of the scale are needed to establish a robust factor structure in the target population.Relevance to Clinical PracticeThe SSCRS‐Sp can be used to assess the nurses' perceptions of spirituality and spiritual care. The availability of this tool represents a significant step towards greater integration of the spiritual dimension of care within a holistic nursing care framework in Spanish‐speaking countries.Patient or Public ContributionNursing professionals responded to the research scale.
Design of Two Coupled Fuzzy Controllers for a Planar Direct Internal Reforming Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Zhai Tianyu , Bestle Dieter 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTIn this paper, a fuzzy‐based control system for the operation of a planar direct internal reforming solid oxide fuel cell (DIR‐SOFC) model is proposed. Two coupled fuzzy controllers are designed to control the inlet fuel and air flowrates in order to satisfy requirements for power demand, cell outlet voltage, and temperature. Suitable membership functions for fuzzification and defuzzification are selected as well as rational base rules defined. For inlet air flowrate control, two different approaches are developed. Each of them works together with the fuel controller. The obtained results demonstrate the effectiveness of both control systems, but a comparison of the results demonstrates that feedback of the change of the cell outlet temperature improves control. Both the dynamic modeling of the planar DIR‐SOFC and the design of the fuzzy control system are realized using the MATLAB/Simulink environment.
Hybrid nanoparticle array fabricated using injection‐molded nanostructure
Authors: Oh Hwa Jin , Huang Zheng Min , Kang Chul , Song Young Seok 
Published: December 2024

AbstractNow that well‐ordered nanoparticles can yield a promising performance in various fields, spatially regular arrangement of particles is a key requirement for nanoparticle‐embedded engineering materials and devices. Here, we demonstrate a feasible, robust method where nanoparticles can be regularly distributed and encapsulated. Polymeric substrates with different sized nanoholes were injection‐molded by controlling mold‐wall temperature in a spatial and temporal manner. A hybrid structure of nanoparticles was constructed by binding quantum dots with metal nanoparticles, and they were filled into the nanoholes using the knife coating process. The morphology of the nanostructure prepared via the molding process and the nanoparticle array was analyzed using a scanning electron microscope and a transmission electron microscope. Fluorescence emission of the hybrid nanostructure was measured. The finding showed that the strategic approach introduced in this study could allow fabrication of hybrid nanoparticle structures with good processability and productivity. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Understanding Return to Work After a Cancer‐Related Sickness Absence. Perceptions of Barriers and Facilitators Among all Relevant Stakeholders
Authors: Ayala‐García Amaya , Serra Laura , Rodriguez‐Arjona Dolors , Benavides Fernando G. , Utzet Mireia 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTPurposeThe aim of this study was to examine the themes acting as barriers or facilitators, from diagnosis and sickness absence (SA) to RTW and work retention, after a cancer‐related SA from the perspectives of all stakeholders in the Spanish setting.MethodsDescriptive qualitative approach with a socio‐constructivist perspective. Theoretical sampling was carried out until saturation. Six discussion groups (4–8 people/group) were conducted: three groups of people with a cancer‐related SA in Catalonia (Spain), one with oncology care professionals, and two with company representatives. An additional individual interview was conducted with a primary care physician. The sessions were held virtually and were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis and mixed coding.ResultsBarriers to RTW and work retention detected by stakeholders included insufficient information and guidance on the impact of cancer on work and SA management, lack of general knowledge and recognition of side effects, lack of consideration of job tasks by medical tribunals, and working in precarious employment. Facilitators included workplace support, psycho‐oncologists, patient associations, and working for a public company.ConclusionsBoth work interruption due to an SA and RTW, are key moments for determining cancer survivors' work retention. We found a general perception of lack of involvement of the social security system, companies, and health professionals in Spain in the impact of cancer on work.Implications for Cancer SurvivorsIntegrating the work sphere in cancer care from the beginning of cancer treatment, and by all stakeholders, could facilitate successful future RTW.