bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nonoxidative methane coupling in a micro‐DBD with enhanced secondary electron emission
Authors: Pourali Nima , Lamichhane Pradeep , Hessel Volker , Rebrov Evgeny V. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThe conversion of methane into transportable and storable materials is crucial in the petrochemical sector. In this study, a specially constructed AC‐driven dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) that has charge injector pyramids on one of the electrodes and runs at ambient temperature and pressure was used to evaluate noncatalytic methane conversion. The obtained result was compared with the traditional flat electrode DBD. It was discovered that the product selectivity in direct nonoxidative methane conversion depended on the discharge conditions. Pyramid electrode plasma sources convert methane up to 50 more than flat electrode plasma due to the appearance of more microdischarges. Pyramid electrode plasma generally has a greater production efficiency than flat electrode plasma, while requiring more operational power. The turnkey solutions offered by the sustainable methane coupling method discussed here may be advantageous for the long‐term small‐scale ethylene exploration scenario.
Deposition of carbon‐based materials directly on copper foil and nickel foam as 2D‐ and 3D‐networked metal substrates by in‐liquid plasma
Authors: Dela Vega Ma. Shanlene D. C. , Nguyen Thi‐Thuy‐Nga , Kondo Hiroki , Tsutsumi Takayoshi , Ishikawa Kenji , Hori Masaru 
Published: August 2023

AbstractIn‐liquid plasma (ILP) process has been an attractive route for nanomaterial synthesis due to its high‐yield production in low‐temperature atmospheric pressure conditions. In comparison with conventional ILP synthesis that produces free‐standing nanomaterials, this work brings a new perspective on the application of the ILP process through carbon formation directly on ethanol‐immersed two‐dimensional (foil) and three‐dimensional (3D) (foam) metal substrates. Three types of carbon, including graphene, graphitic carbon, and amorphous carbon, were simultaneously produced during plasma discharge. Graphitic and amorphous carbon formed radially and coexisted on the metal substrate surface, while free‐standing graphene was produced in ethanol. A conformal coating was achieved on the exterior surface of the 3D‐networked substrate. The proposed mechanism for carbon formation on metal substrates is presented here.
Oscillometry and spirometry are not interchangeable when assessing the bronchodilator response in children and young adults born preterm
Authors: Smith Elizabeth F. , Bradshaw Tiffany K. , Urs Rhea C. , Evans Denby J. , Hemy Naomi R. , Hall Graham L. , Wilson Andrew C. , Simpson Shannon J. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractIntroductionThe European Respiratory Society Oscillometry Taskforce identified that clinical correlates of bronchodilator responses are needed to advance oscillometry in clinical practice. The understanding of bronchodilator‐induced oscillometry changes in preterm lung disease is poor. Here we describe a comparison of bronchodilator assessments performed using oscillometry and spirometry in a population born very preterm and explore the relationship between bronchodilator‐induced changes in respiratory function and clinical outcomes.MethodsParticipants aged 6–23 born ≤32 (N = 288; 132 with bronchopulmonary dysplasia) and ≥37 weeks' gestation (N = 76, term‐born controls) performed spirometry and oscillometry. A significant bronchodilator response (BDR) to 400 μg salbutamol was classified according to published criteria.ResultsA BDR was identified in 30.9% (n = 85) of preterm‐born individuals via spirometry and/or oscillometry, with poor agreement between spirometry and oscillometry definitions (k = 0.26; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.18–0.40, p < .001). Those born preterm with a BDR by oscillometry but not spirometry had increased wheeze (33% vs. 11%, p = .010) and baseline resistance (Rrs5 z‐score mean difference (MD) = 0.86, 95% CI 0.07–1.65, p = .025), but similar baseline spirometry to the group without a BDR (forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV1] z‐score MD = −0.01, 95% CI −0.66 to 0.68, p > .999). Oscillometry was more feasible than spirometry (95% success rate vs. 85% (FEV1), 69% (forced vital capacity) success rate, p < .001), however being born preterm did not affect test feasibility.ConclusionIn the preterm population, oscillometry is a feasible and clinically useful supportive test to assess the airway response to inhaled salbutamol. Changes measured by oscillometry reflect related but distinct physiological changes to those measured by spirometry, and thus these tests should not be used interchangeably.
Normative data for aquagenic wrinkling of palms in children 1–15 years of age: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mohan Minnaladevi , Mannil Aruna , Chandrasekaran Venkatesh , Gulati Reena , Ganapathy Sachit , Nair Sreekumaran 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundAquagenic wrinkling of palms (AWP) is emerging as a screening test for cystic fibrosis (CF). There is lack of normative data for the same in our population.ObjectivesTo generate normative data for AWP in children 1–15 years of age and to describe the factors associated with it.MethodsChildren aged 1–15 years were enrolled after obtaining informed consent and assent of the parent and child based on age. Information regarding age, gender, anthropometry, indications for visiting hospital and drug intake were noted down. Wrinkling test was done using distilled water maintained in room temperature. Sweat chloride analysis was done using Nano duct sweat analysis system for children having AWP within 3 min. The mean/median time to wrinkle was noted and presented as centile curves after smoothing.ResultsThe mean (SD) and median (interquartile range [IQR]) aquagenic wrinkling time in children 1–15 years of age was 4.88 (1.066) and 5 (4–5.75) minutes respectively. The mean (SD) and median (IQR) time for AWP was 4.78 (1.076) and 5 (4–5) minutes respectively for boys and 4.98 (1.048) and 5 (4–6) minutes, respectively for girls. The time taken to wrinkle was observed to increase with age. Males have earlier AWP than females. There was no association between AWP and anthropometry or sweat chloride levels.ConclusionWe have estimated the normative data for AWP in children 1–15 years of age which can be used for CF screening in children with typical clinical features from resource limited settings.
Effect of different types of aerobic training on peak VO2 and ejection fraction for diastolic heart failure patients; a comparative randomized control trial
Authors: Obaya Hany Ezzat , El‐Moneim Abd El‐Hakim Ahmed Abd , Fares Hany Mahmoud , Eldin Saad Moustafa Kamal , Abo Elyazed Tamer I. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundHeart failure is described by a lack of confirmed efficient therapies and exercise intolerance. Engagement in physical activity decreases the possibility of adverse cardiovascular consequences involving heart failure.The Purpose of the StudyDetermine the effect of different types of aerobic training on peak VO2 and ejection fraction in diastolic heart failure patients.Subject and MethodsThe study was designed as a randomized control trail. Forty‐eight eligible male patients with diastolic heart failure, aged between 50 and 65 years old, enrolled in this study. They were picked up from Police hospital outpatient clinic and were assigned to 2 equal groups in numbers. The first group (A) received aerobic exercise for the upper limb in the form of arm ergometer exercises, while the second group (B) received aerobic exercise for the lower limb in the form of cycling. Training duration for both groups was 3 sessions/week for 12 weeks. Peak VO2, and ejection fraction of both groups were measured and compared pre‐ and post‐treatment.ResultsThere was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the ejection fraction between groups post‐treatment. However, a significant increase (p < 0.001) was observed in the peak VO2 of group B when compared to group A post‐treatment.ConclusionThere is no effect of different types of aerobic training on ejection fraction in diastolic heart failure patients, but lower limb exercise is more effective than upper limb exercise in improving peak VO2 in diastolic heart failure patients. Therefore, the current study recommended the use of lower limb exercise over upper limb exercise in training diastolic heart failure patients.Clinical Trial RegistrationThe study was registered in ClinicalTrial.gov as a clinical trial ID (NCT05637125).
Recent updates on clinical developments of curcumin and its derivatives
Authors: Joshi Priyanka , Bisht Akansha , Paliwal Ajita , Dwivedi Jaya , Sharma Swapnil 
Published: August 2023

AbstractCurcumin, a natural polyphenol, derived from Curcuma longa L. is extensively studied by various researchers across the globe and has established its immense potential in the management of several disorders at clinical level. The underlying mechanism of curcumin involves regulation of various molecular targets, namely, inflammatory cytokines, transcription factor, apoptotic genes, growth factors, oxidative stress biomarkers, and protein kinases. In clinical trials, curcumin as an adjuvant has significantly boost‐up the efficacy of many proven drugs in the management of arthritis, neurodegenerative disorder, oral infection, and gastrointestinal disorders. Moreover, clinical studies have suggested curcumin as an appropriate candidate for the prevention and/or management of various cancers via regulation of signaling molecules including NF‐kB, cytokines, C‐reactive protein, prostaglandin E2, Nrf2, HO‐1, ALT, AST, kinases, and blood profiles. This article highlights plethora of clinical trials that have been conducted on curcumin and its derivatives in the management of several ailments. Besides, it provides recent updates to the investigators for conducting future research to fulfill the current gaps to expedite the curcumin utility in clinical subjects bearing different pathological states.
Unravelling the mechanism of summer monsoon rainfall modes over the west coast of India using model simulations
Authors: Phadtare Jayesh A. , Fletcher Jennifer K. , Ross Andrew N. , Turner Andrew G. , Schiemann Reinhard K. H. , Burns Helen L. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractA transition from a predominantly offshore to an onshore rainfall phase over the west coast of India was simulated using three one‐way nested domains with 12, 4, and 1.33 km horizontal grid spacing in the Weather Research and Forecasting model. The mechanism of offshore–onshore rainfall oscillation and the orographic effects of the Western Ghats are studied. A convective parametrization scheme was employed only in the 12 km domain. A trough extending offshore from the west coast facilitates offshore rainfall. This trough is absent during the onshore phase, and rainfall occurs over the coast mainly via orographic uplift by the Western Ghats. The model overestimates rainfall over the Western Ghats at all resolutions as it consistently underestimates the boundary‐layer stratification along the coast. Weaker stratification weakens the blocking effect of the Western Ghats, resulting in anomalous deep convection and rainfall over its windward slopes. The 4 and 1.33 km domains simulate the offshore‐to‐onshore transition of rainfall but fail to capture a sufficient contrast in rainfall between land and sea compared with observations. The 12 km domain produces light rainfall, anchored along the coast, throughout the simulation period and, hence, gravely underestimates the offshore rainfall. The offshore rainfall persisted in the 4 and 1.33 km domains in a sensitivity experiment in which the Western Ghats were flattened. This suggests that orographic effects do not significantly influence offshore rainfall. In another experiment, the convective parametrization scheme in the 12 km domain was turned off. This experiment simulated the offshore and onshore rainfall phases correctly to some extent but the rainfall intensity was unrealistically high. Thus, a model with a horizontal grid spacing of , in which convection evolves explicitly, is desired for simulating the west‐coast rainfall variations. However, improvements in the representation of boundary‐layer processes are needed to capture the land–sea contrast.
Soil chemical and microbial gradients determine accumulation of root‐exuded secondary metabolites and plant–soil feedbacks in the field
Authors: Gfeller Valentin , Cadot Selma , Waelchli Jan , Gulliver Sophie , Terrettaz Céline , Thönen Lisa , Mateo Pierre , Robert Christelle A. M. , Mascher Fabio , Steinger Thomas , Bigalke Moritz , Erb Matthias , Schlaeppi Klaus 
Published: August 2023

AbstractIntroductionHarnessing positive plant–soil feedbacks via crop rotations is a promising strategy for sustainable agriculture. These feedbacks are often context‐dependent, and how soil heterogeneity explains this variation is unknown. Plants influence soil properties, including microbes, by exuding specialized metabolites. Benzoxazinoids, specialized metabolites released by cereals such as wheat and maize, can alter rhizosphere microbiota and performance of plants subsequently growing in the exposed soils and are thus an excellent model to study agriculturally relevant plant–soil feedbacks.Materials and MethodsTo understand local variation in soil properties on benzoxazinoid‐mediated plant–soil feedbacks, we conditioned plots with wild‐type maize and benzoxazinoid‐deficient bx1 mutants in a grid pattern across a field, and we then grew winter wheat in the following season. We determined accumulation of benzoxazinoids, root‐associated microbial communities, abiotic soil properties and wheat performance in each plot and then assessed their associations.ResultsWe detected a marked gradient in soil chemistry and microbiota across the field. This gradient resulted in significant differences in benzoxazinoid accumulation, which were explained by differential benzoxazinoid degradation rather than exudation. Benzoxazinoid exudation modulated microbial diversity in root and rhizospheres during maize growth, but not during subsequent wheat growth, while the chemical fingerprint of benzoxazinoids persisted. Averaged across the field, we did not detect feedbacks on wheat performance and defence, apart from a transient decrease in biomass during vegetative growth. Closer analysis, however, revealed significant feedbacks along the chemical and microbial gradient of the field, with effects gradually changing from negative to positive along the gradient.ConclusionOverall, this study revealed that plant–soil feedbacks differ in strength and direction within a field and that this variation can be explained by standing chemical and microbial gradients. Understanding within‐field soil heterogeneity is crucial for the future exploitation of plant–soil feedbacks in sustainable precision agriculture.
Metal Phosphorous Chalcogenide: A Promising Material for Advanced Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Zhang Hao , Meng Ge , Liu Qian , Luo Yang , Niederberger Markus , Feng Ligang , Luo Jun , Liu Xijun 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThe development of efficient and affordable electrode materials is crucial for clean energy storage systems, which are considered a promising strategy for addressing energy crises and environmental issues. Metal phosphorous chalcogenides (MPX3) are a fascinating class of two‐dimensional materials with a tunable layered structure and high ion conductivity, making them particularly attractive for energy storage applications. This review article aims to comprehensively summarize the latest research progress on MPX3 materials, with a focus on their preparation methods and modulation strategies. Additionally, the diverse applications of these novel materials in alkali metal ion batteries, metal‐air batteries, and all‐solid‐state batteries are highlighted. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of MPX3 materials are presented to inspire their better potential in energy storage applications. This review provides valuable insights into the promising future of MPX3 materials in clean energy storage systems.
Post‐project sustainability evaluation by using a complex systems approach: A framework and an application to a revolving loan fund (microfinance) project in Indonesia
Authors: Chasanah Nur , Gunawan Indra , Baroudi Bassam 
Published: August 2023

AbstractLimited evidence and less comprehensive approach to post‐project sustainability evaluation has raised the need for incorporating complexity concepts in project sustainability evaluation. This study aims to develop a project sustainability evaluation framework by using a complex systems approach and to apply the framework to a microfinance project in Indonesia. This qualitative research is based on thematic analysis. The components of the proposed framework involve mission, input, process, output, performance, governance (including stakeholders, subsystems and feedback mechanisms) and the environment of the projects. Results show that the framework is able to provide comprehensive information including project sustainability dimensions and routinization, the possibility to detect ineffective or undesirable practices, project governance, its performance, the persistent practice and changes. The application to the microfinance project reveals that the microfinance project can achieve sustainability without subsidies by achieving financial goals while maintaining social missions. Implications for project sustainability and microfinance are discussed.
The efficient induction of human retinal ganglion-like cells provides a platform for studying optic neuropathies
Authors: Liou Roxanne Hsiang-Chi , Chen Shih-Wei , Cheng Hui-Chen , Wu Pei-Chun , Chang Yu-Fen , Wang An-Guor , Fann Ming-Ji , Wong Yu-Hui 
Published: August 2023

AbstractRetinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are essential for vision perception. In glaucoma and other optic neuropathies, RGCs and their optic axons undergo degenerative change and cell death; this can result in irreversible vision loss. Here we developed a rapid protocol for directly inducing RGC differentiation from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) by the overexpression of ATOH7, BRN3B, and SOX4. The hiPSC-derived RGC-like cells (iRGCs) show robust expression of various RGC-specific markers by whole transcriptome profiling. A functional assessment was also carried out and this demonstrated that these iRGCs display stimulus-induced neuronal activity, as well as spontaneous neuronal activity. Ethambutol (EMB), an effective first-line anti-tuberculosis agent, is known to cause serious visual impairment and irreversible vision loss due to the RGC degeneration in a significant number of treated patients. Using our iRGCs, EMB was found to induce significant dose-dependent and time-dependent increases in cell death and neurite degeneration. Western blot analysis revealed that the expression levels of p62 and LC3-II were upregulated, and further investigations revealed that EMB caused a blockade of lysosome–autophagosome fusion; this indicates that impairment of autophagic flux is one of the adverse effects of that EMB has on iRGCs. In addition, EMB was found to elevate intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels increasing apoptotic cell death. This could be partially rescued by the co-treatment with the ROS scavenger NAC. Taken together, our findings suggest that this iRGC model, which achieves both high yield and high purity, is suitable for investigating optic neuropathies, as well as being useful when searching for potential drugs for therapeutic treatment and/or disease prevention.
The Predict and Invert Feedback Active Noise and Vibration Control Algorithm
Authors: Lopes Paulo A. C. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThis work proposes an algorithm for feedback ANC that does not require a prior secondary path model and usually remains stable after fast secondary path changes, as other algorithms proposed for feedforward ANC. This is achieved using a recursive least squares algorithm to model the secondary path and the primary noise with an autoregressive moving average model. The resulting model allows for predicting future values of the primary noise. Finally, the primary noise values predicted are filtered by a non-causal inverse of the secondary path model to generate the anti-noise signal. Simulation results attest to the validity of the algorithm in reducing narrowband noise.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on training conditions and education in oncologic disciplines: a survey-based analysis
Authors: Trommer Maike , Adams Anne , Bürkle Carolin , Brunner Stefanie , Grandoch Andrea , Geffroy Alexandra , Franklin Cindy , Gassa Asmae , Meißner Anna-Katharina , Mellinghoff Sibylle , Sharma Shachi Jenny , Schrittenlocher Silvia , Witte Luisa , Marnitz Simone 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Purpose
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to changes in global health care. Medical societies had to update guidelines and enhance new services such as video consultations. Cancer treatment had to be modified. The aim of this study is to ensure optimal care for cancer patients with the help of high-quality training even in times of crisis. We therefore conducted a nationwide survey of physicians in training in oncological disciplines during the pandemic to assess the impact on their education.

Methods
The survey was sent to tumour centres, hospitals, specialist societies, and working and junior research groups and distributed via newsletters and homepages. Interim results and a call for participation were published as a poster (DEGRO) [26] and in the German Cancer Society (DKG) journal FORUM [42]. The survey contained 53 questions on conditions of education and training and on clinical and scientific work. Statistics were carried out with LimeSurvey and SPSS (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA).

Results
Between February and November 2022, 450 participants answered the survey, with radio-oncologists being the largest group (28%). Most colleagues (63%) had access to digital training methods. Virtual sessions were rated as a good alternative, especially as multidisciplinary meetings (54%) as well as in-house and external training programs (48%, 47%). The time spent by training supervisors on education was rated as less than before the pandemic by 57%. Half of all participants perceived communication (54%), motivation (44%) and atmosphere (50%) in the team as bad. The participants felt strongly burdened by extra work (55%) and by a changed team atmosphere (49%). One third felt a change in the quality of training during the pandemic and rated it as negative (35%). According to 37% of the participants, this had little influence on their own quality of work. Additional subgroup analyses revealed significant differences in gender, specialty and education level.

Conclusion
In order to improve oncology training in times of crisis, access to digital training options and meetings should be ensured. Participants wish for regular team meetings in person to enable good team spirit, compensation for overtime work and sufficient time for training supervisors for discussion and feedback.