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Highlights Flexible pressure sensors (FPS) are crucial for emerging applications like wearable electronics, human activity monitoring, and soft robotics. This study reports a scalable and cost‐effective approach to fabricate high‐performance piezoresistive FPS based on polyurethane‐silicone rubber (PU‐SR) nanocomposites. The synergistic integration of nitrogen‐doped bamboo‐shaped carbon nanotubes (N‐BCNT) and carbon black (CB) nanofillers within the PU‐SR matrix was achieved via a novel dip‐coating and impregnation method. This technique enabled uniform nanofiller dispersion, enhancing electrical conductivity and mechanical stability. Comprehensive characterization using x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), zeta potential, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and micro‐computed tomography (Micro‐CT) elucidated the structural features and morphological aspects. The optimized N‐BCNT:CB/PU‐SR nanocomposite exhibited exceptional piezoresistive performance, with a sensitivity of 0.4 kPa−1 in the 0–120 kPa range and 0.07 kPa−1 in the 180–1000 kPa range, along with remarkable durability over cyclic loading. When deployed as an electronic skin (e‐skin), the sensor accurately detected various human motions, including finger, wrist, elbow, and knee movements, as well as twisting and stretching actions. This work shows a promising route towards fabricating cost‐effective, flexible, and high‐performance pressure sensors with significant implications for wearable technologies and soft robotics. Hybrid Nanocomposite sensors achieve high sensitivity over a broad pressure range. N‐CNTs and CB enhance piezoresistivity and durability in PU‐SR nanocomposites. Flexible sensors detect multi‐joint human motions accurately. Alternative dip‐coating technique ensures uniform nanofiller distribution. Cost‐efficient sensors design suitable for wearable e‐skin applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Advances in type 1 diabetes management are enabling more to reach older ages. Frailty is known to complicate type 2 diabetes. However, frailty in people with type 1 diabetes has not been extensively researched. This review summarises the available evidence on frailty in those with type 1 diabetes. Methods: A systematic search strategy was applied to multiple databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Cochrane) including grey literature (Scopus, OAIster, OpenGrey, dissertation and thesis database). All evidence types were considered. English articles published after 2001 were eligible. For inclusion, participants must have been over 55 with type 1 diabetes. Frailty must have been clearly defined or assessed. The results were synthesised into a descriptive format to identify key themes. Results: Of 233 papers subject to full‐text review, 23 were included. Older adult diabetes research frequently does not specify the type of diabetes; 100 articles were excluded for this reason. No articles were found specifically researching frailty in older adults with type 1 diabetes. Fourteen different definitions and nine assessments of frailty were outlined. Generally, the papers supported relaxation of glucose targets and greater adoption of diabetes technology. Conclusions: This review highlights the paucity of evidence in older adults with type 1 diabetes and frailty. Consensus on standardised definitions and assessments of frailty would aid future research, which is urgently needed as more people with type 1 diabetes reach older ages. Identifying and addressing the key issues in this population is vital to support individuals through the challenges of ageing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study is based on the effects of microrotational dynamics, microinertial effects, and temperature changes on electroosmotic peristalsis in a tapered microchannel. This has been addressed by an analytical study of heat transfer in the setting of electroosmotic peristaltic flow involving a micropolar fluid, specifically considering a symmetrically tapered channel. The Navier–Stokes equation, the Poisson–Boltzmann equation, the energy equation, and the micropolar fluid model are all included in the mathematical model. On the flow and temperature fields, a thorough parametric analysis is carried out, investigating the impacts of numerous variables, including the micropolar parameter, Prandtl number, Brinkman number, Grashof number, thermal conductivity ratio, and channel aspect ratio. The findings show that peristalsis and electroosmosis both contribute to higher heat transfer rates. Notably, the electroosmotic parameter and Brinkman number have a substantial impact on the distribution of temperature. The micropolar parameter and Brinkman number have a significant effect on the flow and temperature fields. Furthermore, electrokinetic phenomena are crucial in controlling the axial and spin velocities of the micropolar fluid. These findings have significant ramifications for the design and optimization of microfluidic devices in engineering and biomedical applications that employ the electroosmotic peristaltic flow of micropolar fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Diabetes is widely reported to be more common in people living with HIV (PLWH). Much of the data supporting this originated during the earlier HIV era. The perceived increased risk of type 2 diabetes is reflected in HIV clinical guidelines that recommend screening for diabetes in PLWH on anti‐retroviral therapy (ART). However, international HIV clinical guidelines do not agree on the best marker of glycaemia to screen for diabetes. This stems from studies that suggest HbA1c underestimates glycaemia in PLWH. Methods: Within this review we summarise the literature surrounding the association of HIV and type 2 diabetes and how this has changed over time. We also present the evidence on HbA1c discrepancy in PLWH. Conclusion: We suggest there is no basis to any international guidelines to restrict HbA1c based on HIV serostatus. We recommend, using the current evidence, that PLWH should be screened annually for diabetes in keeping with country specific guidance. Finally, we suggest future work to elucidate phenotype and natural history of type 2 diabetes in PLWH across all populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of quantum‐enabled photonic technologies has opened new avenues for advanced illumination across diverse fields, including sensing, computing, materials, and integration. This review highlights how Quantum‐enhanced sensing and imaging exploit nonclassical correlations to attain unprecedented accuracy in chaotic environments. As well as guaranteeing secure communications, quantum cryptography, protected by physical principles, ensures unbreakable cryptographic key exchange. As quantum computing speed increases exponentially, previously unimplementable uses for classical computers become feasible. On‐chip integration enables the mass production of quantum photonic components for pervasive applications by facilitating miniaturization and scalability. A powerful and flexible platform is produced when classical and quantum systems are combined. Quantum spin liquids and other topological materials can maintain their quantum states while subject to decoherence. Despite challenges with decoherence, production, and commercialization, quantum photonics is an exciting new area of study that promises lighting techniques impossible with conventional optics. To realize this promise, researchers from several fields must work together to solve complex technical problems and decode fundamental physics. Finally, advances in quantum‐enabled photonics have the potential to evolve quantum photonic devices and cutting‐edge imaging methods and usher in a new age of lighting options based on quantum dots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin resistance is a significant contributor to the development of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and is associated with obesity, physical inactivity, and low maximal oxygen uptake. While intense and prolonged exercise may have negative effects, physical activity can have a positive influence on cellular metabolism and the immune system. Moderate exercise has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and improve antioxidant status, whereas intense exercise can increase oxidative stress in the short term. The impact of exercise on pro‐inflammatory cytokine production is complex and varies depending on intensity and duration. Exercise can also counteract the harmful effects of ageing and inflamm‐ageing. This review aims to examine the molecular pathways altered by exercise in non‐obese individuals at higher risk of developing T2D, including glucose utilization, lipid metabolism, mitochondrial function, inflammation and oxidative stress, with the potential to improve insulin sensitivity. The focus is on understanding the potential benefits of exercise for improving insulin sensitivity and providing insights for future targeted interventions before onset of disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study focuses on the effect of obstacles and their positioning within the square cavity (L = H) on heat exchange. This work considers heating the cavity's bottom wall to a steady, high temperature. The top wall of the cavity is adiabatic, while the two vertical side walls are cooled. Four cases are explored under these conditions: the first case is a square‐shaped cavity holding a square‐shaped obstacle h = l = 0,15 L, while the other three cases, respectively, each include two, three, and four square obstacles. The cavity was filled with Cu–Al2O3/H2O hybrid nanofluid with a volume fraction φ = 0.03. Numerical results for laminar and stationary flow regimes with Rayleigh numbers 104 ≤ Ra ≤ 106. The finite volume approach solves the governing equations numerically. The findings show that the number of square obstacles within the square‐shaped cavity significantly impacts heat exchange and hybrid nanofluid flow. The second example, with two square obstacles, improves heat exchange more than other cases with one to four barriers. In the second example, the obstacle location at the plane Y = 0.25H is suitable and helps boost heat transmission of the hybrid nanofluid. The ideal obstacle position in the fourth scenario, which has four square barriers, is at the plane Y = 0.75H. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outstanding structural and chemical characteristics of zeolites (porous crystal forms of aluminosilicate oxides) are well known, but little is known about their optical properties. In this work, we examine the impact of symmetry on the optical characteristics of zeolites utilizing quantum simulations via time‐dependent density functional theory. We demonstrate that zeolites with high symmetry (cubic ACO zeolite) absorb light in the visible spectrum, whereas zeolites with low symmetry (trigonal AFY zeolite) absorb light in the UV–vis region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Additionally, we reveal the nature of optical excitations by our analysis of the electron–hole distribution using transition density matrices. The zeolites also displayed significant variations in their electronic circular dichroism spectra, suggesting symmetry‐driven modulations. This theoretical work offers crucial information about the optical properties of zeolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common and life‐threatening neoplasms worldwide, and is responsible for approximately 90% of all oral malignancies. Aim: This study was aimed at providing updated information on oral squamous cell carcinoma in all Iraqi governorates for the 5‐year period from 2014 to 2018, including the annual incidence and demographic variables. Materials and Methods: The total number of oral squamous cell carcinoma cases in Iraq, along with associated demographic information (age, sex, and site), for the 5‐year period from 2014 to 2018 was obtained. The statistical analysis consisted of descriptive analysis, including frequency, percentage, and mean ± standard deviation. A χ2 test was performed to compare frequencies between male and female patients, among age groups, and among different OSCC sites. The χ2 test was also used to assess the association of each OSCC site with age and sex. The significance threshold was set at p < 0.05, and the confidence interval was set at 95%. The incidence rate of oral squamous cell carcinoma for each year was calculated by dividing the number of OSCC cases per year by the population of Iraq, then multiplying the result by 100,000. Results: A total of 722 cases were recorded. Statistically, oral squamous cell carcinoma was found to be more prevalent in males and individuals over 40 years of age. The tongue was the most common site of occurrence. Lip squamous cell carcinoma cases were high in males. The incidence rate of oral squamous cell carcinoma was estimated to be 0.4 per 100,000 people. Conclusion: Males and older people are at relatively higher risk of developing oral cancer. The tongue is the most affected site, but any site in the oral cavity may be involved. Further exploration of the causes of oral malignancy in Iraq is necessary to improve prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we analyzed the characteristics of heat transfer in non‐Newtonian ferrofluids produced by stretchable sheet. Further, we investigated in this study the effects of Arrhenius activation energy and magnetic dipole. We use in this study, a similarity ansatz to simplify the governing system into a nonlinear coupled ordinary differential equations system. We determined the computational solution of the resulting ordinary differential system by applying method with Runge–Kutta method. The influence of beneficial physical parameters on momentum, energy, and concentration profile are shown through graphs. The major finding of this study, the variation of velocity field is reduces for the higher values of M $M$, β $\beta $, and H $H$. The temperature field increases for higher values of R $R$, and reduce for Pr $Pr$. Further, we conclude in this study the arising or reducing in the concentration, temperature, and velocity field for various physical parameters. The impacts of physical quantities namely skin fraction, Nusselt, and Sherwood numbers are examined through numerically via tables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we examined the effect of heat and mass transfer flow of two immiscible Jeffrey fluids in a vertical channel. The highly nonlinear coupled ordinary differential equations are evaluated using regular perturbation parameters, for small values of perturbation parameter. The effect of Jeffrey's parameter on the flow and the effects of various physical parameters entering into the problem on dimensionless velocity, temperature, and concentration distribution is illustrated graphically. We observe that the Jeffrey parameter, thermal, and mass Grashof number enhance the fluid flow, while the chemical reaction parameter suppresses the fluid flow, also it is established that the Nusselt number is boosted by enhancing the thermal and mass Grashof number. We observed that the results are in very good agreement with the results obtained for a viscous fluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present research focuses on nonsimilar analysis of the flow of a non‐Newtonian Carreau nanofluid against different geometrical configurations affected by thermal radiations. The flow is induced by stretchable surface with the implementation of zero‐net mass‐flux conditions on the surface. This considered model is commonly known as Kuznetsov and Nield's proposed updated model for nanoparticles. The derived flow equations are first nondimensionalized by employing appropriate nonsimilar transformations. The transformed system is analytically tackled by employing the local nonsimilarity (LNS) approach up to the second‐truncation level in association with the numerical algorithm bvp4c. The consequences of appropriate parameters, such as the suction parameter, wedge angle parameter, Weissenberg number, Prandtl number, constant velocity parameter, temperature ratio, Brownian motion, Lewis number, thermophoresis and radiation parameters, on fluid velocity, thermal, and concentration profiles are calculated and graphed. Drag coefficient, Nusselt, and Sherwood numbers are also computed and presented in tabular form. It is observed that intensification in the suction parameter shows augmentation in the local skin friction coefficient. Enhancement in the wedge angle parameter increases both the Sherwood and Nusselt numbers. Enhancement in velocity profile of the nanofluids is noticed with the increasing estimations of suction parameter. Thermophoresis parameter enhances both thermal and concentration profiles, however increasing Lewis number leads to a decline in the concentration boundary layer. With judgment, a comparative assessment is made of the present and previous results. This research may be helpful for the researchers that are interested in studying prospective industrial and engineering nanofluid applications, notably in geophysical and geothermal systems, heat exchangers, solar water heaters, and many others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article investigates the influence of Joule heating and chemical reaction on magneto Casson nanofluid phenomena in the occurrence of thermal radiation through a porous inclined stretching sheet. Consideration is extended to heat absorption/generation and viscous dissipation. The governing partial differential equations were transformed into nonlinear ordinary differential equations and numerically solved using the Implicit Finite Difference technique. The article analyses the effect of various physical flow parameters on velocity, heat, and mass transfer distributions. For the various involved parameters, the graphical and numerical outcomes are established. The analysis reveals that the enhancement of the radiation parameter increases the temperature and the chemical reaction parameter decreases the concentration profile. The empirical data presented were compared with previously published findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The key goals of this manuscript are (i) to investigate the heat transfer and unsteady flow properties of a viscous hybrid nanofluid on a stretching sheet having nonzero slot velocity, and (ii) to examine the impacts of magnetic field parameter, stretching parameter, nanoparticle volume fraction, and heat generation parameter on the Nusselt number and skin friction coefficient numerically. The Tiwari‐Das nanofluid model is used. The mathematical (PDEs) equations controlling border layer flow and heat transfer are resolved by applying a numerical finite‐difference technique in the Crank Nicolson style. For the validation process, the analytical solution is established using the Laplace transform technique and is compared with the numerical solution for a particular case and found to be in superb agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heat transport and friction factor in a three‐dimensional horizontal concentric annular duct filled with nanofluids comprising clove‐treated multiwalled carbon nanotubes are investigated numerically in this paper. The cylinder's outer surface is thermally insulated, while uniform heat flux is imposed on the cylinder's inner surface. The problem is formulated in dimensionless cylindrical coordinates. The numerical solutions were obtained based on the finite volume technique with second‐order precision, and cover a range of the Reynolds number 1000 ≤ Re ≤ 2000 and nanoparticle weight fractions 0.075, 0.125, and 0.175 wt%. To describe the results for both heat exchange and fluid flow performance, the temperature profile, Nusselt number, heat transfer coefficient, and friction factor are represented. The findings state that heat transport increases as Reynolds is increased and nanoparticles are introduced. The friction factor was also observed to improve as the concentration of nanoparticles increased. In addition, two new Nusselt number and friction factor correlations were established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of anisotropic surface roughness on the spontaneous transport of droplets on chemical wettability gradients has not been investigated. Understanding the details of this process has the potential to unlock new fluid handling functionality critical to the development of next‐generation surfaces with intelligent control capabilities. Herein, the fabrication of chemical gradients with mechanically tunable anisotropic microtopography (microwrinkles with directional roughness) is described and the use of these surfaces in programable microdroplet transport is reported. In particular, the interplay between chemical gradient intensity, microwrinkle orientation, and droplet velocity/trajectory was investigated, enabling the rational synthesis of surface fluidic systems capable of mechanically programmable 2D droplet manipulations, vertical droplet transport, and droplet combination. These findings highlight the sophisticated capabilities of mechanically switchable droplet handling systems and demonstrate new avenues for designing intelligent materials with programable transport properties for potential use in surface/microfluidics, water harvesting, energy generation, bioanalysis, and microreactor design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study are (i) to find exact analytical solutions to the unsteady hybrid nanofluid flow and heat transfer due to a moving infinite flat plate, and (ii) to investigate the impacts of different hybrid nanofluids (Cu‐Al2O3/water, CuO‐Al2O3/water, and Ag‐Al2O3/water) on the unsteady flow and heat transfer characteristics with MHD and variable temperature. The Laplace transform technique is employed to find the exact analytical solutions of the partial differential equations with appropriate boundary conditions governing the problem considered. The results computed for engineering quantities, namely skin friction coefficient and Nusselt number and velocity and temperature profiles by the Laplace transform technique are analyzed using graphs and tables. It has been found that there is a significant increase in the heat transfer rate for hybrid nanofluids than for nanofluids and we observed a higher heat transfer rate for Cu‐Al2O3/water and a lower heat transfer rate for Ag‐Al2O3/water than for the others. The novelty of this study is finding an exact analytical solution to the problem of hybrid nanofluid flow due to moving vertical plate where the effects of magnetic field and variable plate temperature conditions are considered. The obtained results can be used in various engineering applications, including geothermal reservoirs, packed‐bed storage tanks, packed‐bed catalytic reactors, thermal insulation, grain storage, porous solids drying, and petroleum resource gas production. Furthermore, the findings can be used to validate numerical solutions for more complex transient hybrid nanofluid flow and convective heat transfer problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined associations between structural racism, anti‐LGBTQ policies, and suicide risk among young sexual minority men (SMM). Participants were a 2017–2018 Internet‐based U.S. national sample of 497 Black and 1536 White SMM (ages 16–25). Structural equation modeling tested associations from indicators of structural racism, anti‐LGBTQ policies, and their interaction to suicide risk factors. For Black participants, structural racism and anti‐LGBTQ policies were significantly positively associated with depressive symptoms, heavy drinking, perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, self‐harm, and suicide attempt. There were significant interaction effects: Positive associations between structural racism and several outcomes were stronger for Black participants in high anti‐LGBTQ policy states. Structural racism, anti‐LGBTQ policies, and their interaction were not significantly associated with suicide risk for White SMM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalysts based on individual precious metals on carbon‐ and oxide‐based carriers have shown remarkably selective behavior in the hydrodebromination of CH2Br2 to CH3Br, an important transformation within halogen‐mediated methane upgrading processes. However, the high susceptibility of the active phase to coking and to sintering, which cannot be overcome by controlling the nuclearity of the metal species, hinders their practical implementation. Herein, a platform of carbon‐supported Ir−Ru catalysts with distinct metal ratios at comparable metal nanoparticle size (ca. 1.0 nm) was adopted to systematically study the effects of a second metal on reactivity and stability. Catalytic tests reveal ruthenium‐doped iridium nanoparticles as the first system that combines high CH3Br selectivity (up to 93 %) with unprecedented stability, outperforming any of the previously reported catalysts. This superior performance was rationalized by the intimate interaction between the two metals, forming ruthenium‐poor surface alloys, which enable suppressing deactivation mechanisms as well as over hydrogenation/coking pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cancer survivors are at elevated risk for developing mental health (MH) disorders. This study assessed MH service use and unmet service needs among a nationally representative sample of cancer survivors.Methods: Respondents aged 18 to 64 years were identified from the 2015-2018 National Survey of Drug Use and Health data. Outcomes assessed past-year MH service use and self-reported unmet MH needs. Outcomes were compared between respondents who reported a cancer history (survivors) and those who did not (controls), descriptively and in adjusted analyses controlling for sociodemographic factors and health status. Analyses were stratified by age groups (18-34, 35-49, and 50-64 years).Results: Comparing 3540 survivors with 149,843 controls, within each age group, a higher proportion of survivors than controls received any MH service (P values < .05); this difference persisted among those aged 35 to 49 years (P = .004) in fully adjusted models. Moreover, a higher proportion of survivors than controls reported an unmet need for MH care; this difference was larger among young adults aged 18 to 34 years (20.8% vs 9.0%; P < .001) than those aged 35 to 49 years (9.4% vs 5.3%; P < .001) and 50 to 64 years (4.8% vs 3.4%; P = .029). In fully adjusted models, the survivor-control difference in self-reported unmet MH needs persisted among young adults (24% relative increase; P = .023). Among cancer survivors, young adult survivors had the highest likelihood of reporting unmet MH needs.Conclusions: This nationally representative study found an increased perception of unmet needs for MH care among cancer survivors, particularly among young adult survivors, compared with the general population without cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptive materials with tunable superhydrophobic surfaces promise to impact a range of fluid handling technologies; however, adaptive superhydrophobic materials remain difficult to fabricate, control, and switch rapidly. Here, a versatile method for generating hierarchically structured and adaptive superhydrophobic silicone films for the rational control of surface wettability and droplet adhesion is reported. Specifically, mechanical tension is utilized to manipulate networks of microcracks in nanoporous layers supported on elastomeric silicone films, enabling dynamic modulation of superhydrophobicity and droplet adhesion. The reported mechano‐responsive superhydrophobic surfaces are applied to directional droplet shedding and "no‐loss" droplet transport and are used to generate artificial "skins" with droplet tweezing capabilities. This approach provides materials with enhanced functionality useful to a range of emergent technologies, including adaptive textiles, biocompatible (wearable) sensors, soft robotics, anti‐icing systems, "no‐loss" droplet manipulators, and thermal management devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the effects of angle of inclination on heat transfer by mixed convection have been analyzed numerically in a square cavity packed with a CuO nanofluid. Cavity boundaries are constructed by having sinusoidal varying temperature on sidewalls, inactive horizontal walls, and the hot passing plate at the center of the cavity. The transport equations for fluid and heat are solved using the finite‐volume method with SIMPLE algorithm. The Richardson number (Ri) varying from 0.01 to 100, inclination angle (γ) from 0° to 90°, wall speed ratios (λ) from 0 to 3 and volume fraction of nanoparticles (φ) from 0.0 to 0.1 are given and represented in the form of flow fields, temperature fields, and mean heat transfer graphs. It is detected that the principal flow constraints have a substantial impact on the flow lines and thermal lines. Specifically, the structures of cavity inclination, existence of copper nanoparticles, and the hot wall in motion at the midpoint of the cavity are established to enrich the overall rate of heat transfer. Correspondingly, in the present study, the Vajjha and Das model is taken into account for the effective thermal conductivity and viscosity of the nanofluid; application of this model is beneficial for the industries working in a high‐temperature environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, it is explored theoretically Hall and ion slip effects on the unsteady magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) rotating flow of a viscous, incompressible electrically conducting, and optically thick radiating Jeffreys fluid over an impulsively, moving vertical plate embedded in a saturated porous medium, when the temperature of the plate has a provisionally ramped profile. The exact solutions of the governing equations for the flow domain are attained by making use of the Laplace transform method. The specified analytical solutions are also acquired for some limiting cases. The research phrases of engineering curiosity for skin friction and Nusselt number are originated for both ramped wall temperature and the isothermal plate. Sherwood number is also obtained. The numerical results of velocity, temperature, and concentration distributions are exhibited graphically whereas skin friction, Nusselt number, and also Sherwood number are mentioned in a table form. It is observed that on either cases of ramped wall temperature and isothermal plate, the resultant velocity enhances with an increase in Hall and ion slip parameters. Reversal behavior is observed with an increase in magnetic field parameter, Jeffreys fluid parameter and Prandtl number. Thermal and concentration buoyancy forces and thermal radiation tend to accelerate the resultant velocity throughout the boundary layer region. The temperature reduces with an increase in Prandtl number and reverse effect is observed with an increase in thermal radiation parameter. Mass diffusion tends to enhance to species concentration. The rotation and Jeffreys fluid parameters tend to enhance both stress components. Nusselt number enables to lessen with growing in thermal radiation parameter and is magnified on escalating in time. The Sherwood number is improved with increasing in Schmidt number at the plate and it is refused on increasing in time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: HbA1c is reported to underestimate glycaemia in people living with HIV (PLHIV). There is not an internationally agreed screening method for diabetes. The primary aim was to identify which tests are performed to diagnose and monitor diabetes in PLHIV. Secondary aims were to identify whether prevalence or incidence of diabetes differs according to marker of glycaemia and how figures compare in PLHIV compared to people without. Methods: Electronic databases were searched for studies investigating diabetes in PLHIV, not pregnant, aged ≥18 years. Narrative analysis and descriptive statistics were used to describe which markers of glycaemia, and their frequency, were employed in the diagnosis and monitoring of diabetes in PLHIV. Diagnostic studies provided prevalence or incidence of diabetes. Results: In all, 45 of 1028 studies were included. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), fasting glucose (FG), HbA1c and Fructosamine were used to investigate diabetes. In total, 27 studies described diagnosing diabetes, 14 using OGTT, 12 FG and 7 HbA1c. All 18 studies monitoring diabetes used HbA1c. Prevalence ranged from 1.3% to 26% and incidence 2.9% to 12.8%. Studies using glucose and HbA1c reported HbA1c to diagnose fewer people with diabetes, monitoring studies found HbA1c to underestimate glycaemia levels. Controlled studies demonstrate diabetes was more common in PLHIV. Conclusion: OGTT was used most frequently to diagnose diabetes, and HbA1c to monitor known diabetes. Prevalence and incidence varied depending on marker of glycaemia used. Studies reported a discrepancy in accuracy of HbA1c in PLHIV, to address this, well‐designed, prospective studies, providing individual‐level data on HbA1c levels and an additional marker of glycaemia in PLHIV are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The commonly used 24‐hour collection technique has been the mainstay of diagnosis for supersaturation but has some certain limitations. Hence, superiority of multiple short urine collections as a new alternative in precipitation risk assessment was assessed compared to the standard 24‐hour urine collection among healthy subjects. Materials and Methods: Individual urine samples of 26 healthy subjects were acquired every 2 to 3 hours throughout the 24 hours. Urine samples were obtained and the time and volume of each sample were recorded. Urinary constituents involved in precipitation including, sodium‐potassium, chloride, calcium, phosphate, citrate, magnesium, urea, creatinine and pH were measured. A simulated 24‐hour collection was recalculated by the totalling of all shorter urine collections volume and urinary constituents excretions throughout the day. Results: Urine pH, urine creatinine and precipitation rate had a significantly lower values in 24‐hours urine collection compared to one individual value of multiple urine collections by −0.769 (P <.0001), −7.305 (P <.0001), and − 12.838 (P <.0001), respectively. However, calcium (2.697, P <.0001), citrate (3.54, P <.0001), total phosphate (19.961, P <.0001) and total creatinine (9.579, P <.0001) had statistically significantly higher values in the 24‐hours urine collection compared to individual value of multiple urine collections. Conclusion: Based on the results, individual analysis of multiple shorter urine collections throughout the day improves the ability of identifying supersaturation points, precipitation risk zones and may potentially improve risk assessment compared to the 24‐hour urine collection method. SUMMARY AT A GLANCE: Individual analysis of multiple shorter urine collections throughout the day improves the ability of identifying supersaturation points, precipitation risk zones and may potentially improve risk assessment compared to the 24‐hour urine collection in the assessment of the risks of stone formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this article is to conduct the lattice Boltzmann simulation of the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) natural conjugate heat transfer in an apportioned cavity loaded with a multiwalled carbon nanotube/water nanofluid. The divided cavity is, to some extent, heated and cooled at the upright walls, whereas the horizontal walls are adiabatic. The nanofluid properties are evaluated on the basis of experimental correlations. The parameters ranges in the study are as follows: nanoparticles' volume fraction (%): 0 ≤ ϕ ≤ 0.5, temperature (°C): T = 27, Rayleigh number (Ra): 103 ≤ Ra ≤ 105, Hartmann number (Ha): 0 ≤ Ha ≤ 90, and the magnetic field inclination angle (γ): 0 ≤ γ ≤ π/2. The current outcomes are observed to be in great concurrence with the numerical results introduced in the literature. The impacts of the aforesaid parameters on local and average heat transfer, entropy generation, and Bejan number (Be) are explored and discussed. Indeed, the transfer of heat increases linearly with ϕ for a low Ra. As Ra increases, the average Nusselt number decreases for a high value of ϕ. The increase of nanoparticles' volume fraction leads to a reduction in the entropy generation and an increase in the Bejan number for a high Ra, but at low Ra, these functions remain constant. As the Ha increases, the transfer of heat and the entropy generation decreases, whereas there is an increase in Be. The transfer of heat, total entropy generation, and the Be depends strongly on the direction of the magnetic field. The increase of heater and cooler size has a great influence on the transfer of heat, entropy generation, and Be. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, many researchers have focused on their studies on the analysis of nanofluid flows due to their participation in the enhancement of heat transfer rates in industrial processes. The ordinary fluids, such as water, mineral oils, and so on, are known for their low thermal conductivity in heat transfer processes. A significant enhancement in the thermal properties of ordinary fluid may be obtained by adding nanoparticles having a diameter of less than 100 nm or suspension of fibers. Better spreading, wetting, dispersion, and stability and with acceptable viscosity are the main advantageous properties of nanofluids on a solid surface. The nanofluids are encountered in various thermal engineering systems such as in heat exchangers, refrigeration, thermal management of fuel cells, cooling of nuclear reactors, microelectromechanical systems, and others. In particular, the thermal conversion is known as a great application of nanotechnology, and many studies have been achieved with such fluids in heat exchangers. Therefore, this paper aims to present a global insight into the different applications of nanofluids in various heat exchangers, that is, heat pipe and plate'fin heat exchangers. All research works have been summarized into three main parts: laminar, transition, and turbulent nanofluid flow regimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the antiplaque and antigingivitis efficacy in addition to evaluating side effects and subjects' perceptions of three commercially available mouthwashes. Methods: This study was a double‐blind, parallel, and short‐term trial. A total of 75 dental students with biofilm‐induced gingivitis were included in the final analysis of the current study. Clinical parameters (plaque index and bleeding on probing) and the staining effect were measured at baseline and after 7 days. In addition, a VAS‐based assessment questionnaire was completed by the participants. Results: All interventions significantly reduced plaque scores, but chlorhexidine (CHX) had a significantly higher effect than the hyaluronic acid (HA) and antioxidant mouthwashes. However, all mouthwashes significantly reduced the total bleeding scores to <10% in 53% of the patients, compared to the baseline record. Additionally, teeth underwent shade changes in association with all interventions by the end of the study. Analysis of feedback about the mouthwashes showed that the participants seemed to prefer the HA mouthwash over the other mouthwashes. Conclusions: CHX remains the most effective antiplaque mouthwash although HA and antioxidants are as effective as CHX in reducing bleeding. In addition, based on its better acceptance by the participants, HA is potentially a good alternative to CHX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodiesel‐fuelled diesel engine with oxygen enrichment technique is one of the promising attempts for improving the performance and combustion characteristics of an engine without compromising emissions. The present study emphasizes the utilization of Calophyllum Inophyllum biodiesel with three different percentages of oxygen rates, namely, 1%, 2%, and 3%, were inducted in the intake manifold of stationary diesel engine; and the results were compared with B20 (without oxygen enrichment) and conventional diesel. Results indicated that biodiesel blend B20 with 2% oxygen enrichment substantially improved the BTE to about 28.1%, which is higher than B20 and diesel fuel. The BTE is improved by 43.5 and 15% as compared with B20 and diesel fuel, respectively. Results also revealed that the cylinder pressure using B20 with 2% oxygen enrichment is improved to about 9.6% with B20 and diesel. The precombustion phase was reduced along with ignition delay, producing longer diffusion phase for all oxygen‐enriched fuels. Also, significant reduction in stringent emissions of CO (67% with B20 and 50% with diesel) and smoke (85% with B20 and 63% with diesel) but NOx emissions were increased. The experimental study reveals that the impact of oxygen enrichment on biodiesel blended fuel offered superior engine characteristics than diesel fuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This manuscript reviews most of the available papers on the nanofluids convection in different shapes of cavities and enclosures, applying a magnetic field. The papers have been categorized into two major classes: natural convection and mixed convection. Important research have been described more and then two tables demonstrate a summary of the papers. Statistical considerations are mentioned to realize some helpful information on the scope. Most of the results demonstrated that the heat transfer usually enhances with an increase in nanoparticles volume concentration and Rayleigh number and shows inverse behavior with growth in the Hartmann number. The average Nusselt number will decrease with any increase in the Richardson number. Moreover, magnetohydrodynamic constraints the heat transfer and therefore, can play as an applicable controller of heat transfer applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study article addresses the flow and heat transfer characteristics of a magnetite Fe3O4 micropolar ferrofluid flow past a stretching sheet. For practical interest, thermal radiation, Newtonian heating, and a heat source or sink are considered in this investigation. A useful Tiwari‐Das nanofluid model is considered to analyze the microstructure and inertial characteristics of the water‐based nanofluids containing iron oxide. The dimensionless nonlinear ordinary differential equations are solved by employing suitable similarity variables. The resulting nonlinear system is solved by the spectral quasi‐linearization method. The effects of different nondimensional parameters on various profiles are shown graphically and explored in detail. It is found that the micropolar ferrofluid exhibits a higher energy distribution than that of a classical micropolar fluid. Compared to the classical micropolar liquid, local skin-friction is more significant for the micropolar magnetite ferrofluid. In the presence of Newtonian heating, the thermal behavior of the micropolar nanofluid is remarkably better than that of the classical micropolar fluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) as an experimental model of multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by demyelination, infiltration of inflammatory cells into the nervous system and dysregulation of serum inflammatory cytokines. We investigated the correlation of serum cytokines and other inflammatory markers with the EAE pathogenesis. After EAE induction, the levels of different serum cytokine/inflammatory mediators were measured. Furthermore, motor functions, myelination, and lymphocyte infiltration in EAE mice were also assessed. Our results revealed that the serum concentrations of T‐helper 1 (Th1) and Th17 cytokines, interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β, IL‐1α and prostaglandin E2 in EAE mice were significantly higher than controls. The ratios of pro‐ to anti‐inflammatory cytokines were different between the EAE and the control group. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the IL‐6/IL‐10 ratio and the EAE severity, demyelination rate, and lymphocyte infiltration in EAE mice. Results indicate that the profiles of serum pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines might be useful as biomarkers for monitoring the pathological manifestation of EAE. Furthermore, evaluating the dynamic interplay of serum cytokine levels and the correlation with pathogenic mechanisms of EAE may provide diagnostic and therapeutic insights for MS and some other inflammatory disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study applied the computational fluid dynamic (CFD) code, ANSYS Fluent for simulating the effect a piezoelectric fan installed inside the rectangular channel by numerical simulation method for transient flow field and investigating the influence of each parameter. To remove the disorganized form of energy from the electronic components, the reversible piezoelectric effect is employed to energize the piezoelectric fan. To observe the variation of fan characteristics and to predict the convective heat transfer coefficient, CFD code ANSYS Fluent 15.0 is used. The numerical simulation parameters included are Nusselt number, number of fins (n = 12 and 14), and counter‐shift (inward and outward‐phase), and distance between the upper portion of the fan tip to the front part of the low thermal reservoir. Numerical analysis was carried out to evaluate the effect of thermal flow fields on the heat sink and piezoelectric fan employed in a flow domain. the results showed that by varying the height from channel bottom to the center of piezoelectric fan improves the performance of the piezoelectric fan, piezoelectric fan swinging in a transient phenomena and also simultaneously influences fluid flow behavior on the heat source surface, the fan vibration at counter‐phase has a better rate of heat transfer than vibration in in‐phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the computational analysis of convective heat transfer characteristics, pressure drop, and entropy generation characteristics of Al2O3/water nanofluids in a noncircular duct (triangular) using a single phase approach under a turbulent flow regime. The thermal and pressure drop characteristics of different concentrations of Al2O3 nanoparticles (NPs) and the analysis were carried out in Fluent software using a k‐ε approach under constant wall heat flux around the boundary. The results show that there is an increase in pressure drop and thereby an increase in friction by 20% for the smooth condition. The total pressure drop between the entry and exit section of the duct is increased to approximately 84.2% and 85.6% for a higher Reynolds number (Re = 10 000) compared with that of base fluid. Similarly, the entropy generation of water is increased by 40% as compared with 0.05% and 0.1% Al2O3 NPs. There is also a decrease in entropy generation identified while there is an increase in the Reynolds number. The convective heat transfer of 0.05% and 0.1% nanofluid has a similar trend with increased Reynolds number. The maximum performance is observed at the Reynolds number (Re = 4000) and found to be 1.29 for 0.1% concentration, whereas, the fluid at 0.05% is observed to be at 1.23. At a higher Reynolds number (Re = 10 000) the performance index decreased to approximately 1.19 and 1.25 for 0.05% and 0.1%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to investigate a hybrid cycle consisting of a molten carbonate fuel cell (FC) and a Stirling engine which, by connecting to a seawater reverse osmosis desalination unit, provides fresh water. First, a parametric evaluation is performed to study the effect of some key parameters, including the current density and the working temperature of the FC and the thermal conductance between the working substance and the heat reservoirs in the Stirling engine, on the objective functions. The objective functions include the energy efficiency, the exergy destruction rate density, the fresh water production rate, and the ecological function density. After investigating each double combination of these objective functions, two scenarios are defined in quest to concurrently optimize three functions together. The first scenario aims to optimize the energy efficiency, the exergy destruction rate density, and the fresh water production rate; and the second scenario attempts to optimize the energy efficiency, the fresh water production rate, and the ecological function density. A multi‐objective evolutionary algorithm joined with the nondominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA‐II) approach is employed to obtain Pareto fronts in each case scenario. In order to ascertain final solutions between Pareto fronts, three fast and robust decision‐making methods are employed including TOPSIS, LINMAP, and Fuzzy. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is conducted to critically analyze the performance of the system. Thermodynamic analysis of irreversible molten carbonate fuel cell–Stirling heat engine–reverse osmosis hybrid system is studied. A multi‐objective optimization approach is carried out for performance optimization. Three decision‐making methods are employed to select final answers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of heat waves and cold spells has been receiving special attention in recent years due to their impact on human health, ecosystems and other aspects, such as the economy. The present work uses a Lagrangian approach to analyse the physical processes leading to temperature extremes in the Iberian Peninsula (IP) for the 20‐year period 1994–2013. Principal component analysis has also been carried out to identify the associated synoptic scale configurations. Spatial pattern analysis shows that the highest temperatures during hot events are reached in the SW region and the lowest ones in the NE, while a latitudinal gradient of 26 K was obtained for the cold events, with the lowest values in the NE regions and the Pyrenees. Most of the extremes persisted between 1 and 3 days for both hot and cold events. Rather than meridional advection, the primary cause behind the occurrence of hot extremes seems to be progressive diabatic warming, which becomes accentuated in its final stage and is caused, on the one hand, by air masses with long residence times over the IP and, on the other hand, by recirculation processes during summer days of weak baric gradient. The air masses producing the extreme cold events have faster trajectories and mainly originate in north and northeast Europe, due to a relative low in the central Mediterranean and a blocking high in the North Atlantic and/or in northeast Europe. The primary cause of occurrence of hot extremes in Iberian Peninsula (IP) is a progressive diabatic warming caused by air masses with long residence times over the IP and by recirculation processes during summer days of weak baric gradient. The extreme cold events are associated with air‐mass advection from north and northeast Europe, induced by the presence of a relative low in the central Mediterranean and a blocking high in the North Atlantic and/or in north‐eastern Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fast data search is an important element of big data in the modern era of internet of things, cloud computing, and social networks. Search using traditional binary-search algorithm can be accelerated by employing an interpolation search technique when the data is regularly distributed. In this work, the interpolation search is investigated in which the search results provided unexpected sluggish progress during a search in a large database due to the irregular distribution of data. Irregular distribution of data does not allow the interpolation to make a good prediction about the location of the search item. To overcome this issue, an interpolation- extrapolation search (IES) method is proposed where the interpolation method is integrated with an extrapolation method that balances the lower and upper bounds of the search interval. The proposed method provides faster convergence property than the binary search and the interpolation method. Hence, the proposed IES method provides a faster search for items in a big database. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate warming has been proposed as the main cause of the recent range shifts seen in many species. Although species' thermal tolerances are thought to play a key role in determining responses to climate change, especially in ectotherms, empirical evidence is still limited. We investigate the connection between species' thermal tolerances, elevational range and shifts in the lower elevational limit of dung beetle species (Coleoptera, Aphodiidea) in an upland region in the northwest of England. We measured thermal tolerances in the laboratory, and used current and historical distribution data to test specific hypotheses about the area's three dominant species, particularly the species most likely to suffer from warming: Agollinus lapponum. We found marked differences between species in their minimum and maximum thermal tolerance and in their elevational range and patterns of abundance. Overall, differences in thermal limits among species matched the abundance patterns along the elevation gradient expected if distributions were constrained by climate. Agollinus lapponum abundance increased with elevation and this species showed lower maximum and minimum thermal limits than Acrossus depressus, for which abundance declined with elevation. Consistent with lower tolerance to high temperature, we recorded an uphill retreat of the low elevation limit of A. lapponum (177 m over 57 yr) in line with the increase in summer temperature observed in the region over the same period. Moreover, this species has been replaced at low and mid‐elevations by the other two warm‐tolerant species (A. depressus and Agrilinus ater). Our results provide empirical evidence that species' thermal tolerance constrains elevational ranges and contributes to explain the observed responses to climate warming. A mechanistic understanding of how climate change directly affects species, such as the one presented here, will provide a robust base to inform predictions of how individual species and whole assemblages may change in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A conventional Michelson interferometer is modified and used to form the various types of interferometers. The basic system consists of a conventional Michelson interferometer with silicon‐graphene‐gold embedded between layers on the ports. When light from the monochromatic source is input into the system via the input port (silicon waveguide), the change in optical path difference (OPD) of light traveling in the stacked layers introduces the change in the optical phase, which affects to the electron mean free path within the gold layer, induces the change in the overall electron mobility can be seen by the interferometer output visibility. Further plasmonic waves are introduced on the graphene thin film and the electron mobility occurred within the gold layer, in which the light‐electron energy conversion in terms of the electron mobility can be observed, the gold layer length is 100 nm. The measurement resolution in terms of the OPD of ∼50 nm is achieved. In applications, the outputs of the drop port device of the modified Michelson interferometer can be arranged by the different detectors, where the polarized light outputs, the photon outputs, the electron spin outputs can be obtained by the interference fringe visibility, mobility visibility and the spin up‐down splitting output energies. The modified Michelson interferometer theory and the detection schemes are given in details. Plot of the mobility visibility and the change in mean free paths, μ =  eτm= edmVF, where VF= 105ms−1 of electron in gold (Bourke and Chantler (), Physical Review Letters, 104, 206601; Gall (), Journal of Applied Physics, 119, 085101), where the mobility (input power) is fixed at 1.0 mW, the electron mass = 9.10 × 10−31kilograms, the electron charge = 1.60 × 10−19 coulombs. The refractive index of a silicon is 1.46, GaAs = 3.66 and Au = 0.61. The fringe peak to peak is obtained at Δt= 2.5 fs, is 0.5 × 10−7m or 50 nm, where (a) the blue color is the through port output signals and the red color is the drop port output signals, (b) the black and white signals of Figure 5a. The interference fringes of the interferometer are seen at the drop port. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this work, we explore the unsteady squeezing flow and heat transfer of nanofluid between two parallel disks in which one of the disks is penetrable and the other is stretchable/shrinkable, in the presence of thermal radiation and heat source impacts, and considering the Cattaneo–Christov heat flux model instead of the more conventional Fourier's law of heat conduction. A similarity transformation is utilized to transmute the governing momentum and energy equations into nonlinear ordinary differential equations with the proper boundary conditions. The achieved nonlinear ordinary differential equations are solved by the Duan–Rach Approach (DRA). This method modifies the standard Adomian Decomposition Method by evaluating the inverse operators at the boundary conditions directly. The impacts of diverse active parameters, such as the suction/injection parameter, the solid volume fraction, the heat source parameter, the thermal relaxation parameter, and the radiation parameter on flow and heat transfer traits are examined. In addition, the value of the Nusselt number is calculated and portrayed through figures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We present a design of micro‐conjugate mirror using a nonlinear microring resonator, which is made of GaAsInP/P, is rapidly achieving widespread option in several three‐dimensional (3D) imaging applications. By exploiting the conjugate mirror properties, the 3D light probes can be formed by the whispering gallery modes (WGM) in which the WGM probe is also available within a nonlinear microring resonator. It is important to understand, these light probes use the similar functional principle to provide structured light through the object, just as the reference beams to light up and develop a hologram using the holographic method. The interference of 2 beams constructs the 3D image which can be seen by the naked‐eye while providing the 3D perception. The simulation results obtained from the transmission of 3D imaging are processed using MATLAB and OptiFDTD are compared and analyzed. These convincing theoretical results suggest that the proposed method can be used in practice to realize the naked‐eye 3D imaging with convincing visual perception and efficient transmission while providing the ultimate mode of convenience for viewers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mixed convection in a fluid-porous composite medium lying inside a square cavity with a centrally rotating cylinder has been investigated in the present work. The bottom half of the cavity is filled with a porous material and the top half is filled with a clear fluid. The bottom wall of the cavity is at a higher temperature, and the top wall is at a lower temperature. The vertical walls are thermally insulated. The convection inside the cavity sets through the combined mechanisms of the thermal buoyancy force and the shearing action of the centrally rotating cylinder. The relative importance of each driving mechanism over the other is featured through the Richardson number. The Darcy-Brinkman- Forchheimer equation is used for the flow modeling in the porous medium, and a single-domain approach is adopted for the numerical solution in the fluid-porous composite medium. The simulation is carried out with ANSYS Fluent software, and a parametric analysis involving the Rayleigh number (Ra), Richardson number (Ri), and theDarcy number (Da) is conducted showing their effects on the flow and heat transfer. The phenomena are quite interesting at higher Darcy number and Rayleigh number. The distributions of isotherms, streamlines, and vector plots are plotted, along with the local Nusselt numbers for different parameters, to explore the underlying physics of the phenomenon. The system is found stable at lower Darcy number, and the heat transfer is minimum around Ri = 10. From the numerical study, an empirical correlation for the average Nusselt number is developed as a function of the other dimensionless numbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Global change is affecting primary productivity in forests worldwide, and this, in turn, will alter long‐term carbon (C) sequestration in wooded ecosystems. On one hand, increased primary productivity, for example, in response to elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), can result in greater inputs of organic matter to the soil, which could increase C sequestration belowground. On other hand, many of the interactions between plants and microorganisms that determine soil C dynamics are poorly characterized, and additional inputs of plant material, such as leaf litter, can result in the mineralization of soil organic matter, and the release of soil C as CO2 during so‐called “priming effects”. Until now, very few studies made direct comparison of changes in soil C dynamics in response to altered plant inputs in different wooded ecosystems. We addressed this with a cross‐continental study with litter removal and addition treatments in a temperate woodland (Wytham Woods) and lowland tropical forest (Gigante forest) to compare the consequences of increased litterfall on soil respiration in two distinct wooded ecosystems. Mean soil respiration was almost twice as high at Gigante (5.0 μmol CO2 m−2 s−1) than at Wytham (2.7 μmol CO2 m−2 s−1) but surprisingly, litter manipulation treatments had a greater and more immediate effect on soil respiration at Wytham. We measured a 30% increase in soil respiration in response to litter addition treatments at Wytham, compared to a 10% increase at Gigante. Importantly, despite higher soil respiration rates at Gigante, priming effects were stronger and more consistent at Wytham. Our results suggest that in situ priming effects in wooded ecosystems track seasonality in litterfall and soil respiration but the amount of soil C released by priming is not proportional to rates of soil respiration. Instead, priming effects may be promoted by larger inputs of organic matter combined with slower turnover rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodiversity surveys of natural as well as agricultural ecosystems commonly reveal novel isolates. A new species, Pythium yorkensis sp. nov., is reported here, isolated from field soil during a survey of oomycete diversity in symptomless soybean across southeastern Pennsylvania. Molecular data from both mitochondrial and nuclear loci support a unique phylogenetic position for the isolates collected, and morphological features distinguish this new species from close relatives in Pythium clade J. Pathogenicity assays suggest that this new species may be a potential agricultural pathogen, as isolates were mildly aggressive on soybean. This study highlights the continued need for culture‐based surveys in collaboration with high‐throughput sequence‐based approaches for environmental sampling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]