bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The biology and ecology of the Pacific sharpnose shark Rhizoprionodon longurio
Authors: Gayford Joel H. , Whitehead Darren A.
Published: October 2023

Amidst global declines in elasmobranch populations resulting predominantly from overfishing, the need to gather data regarding shark ecology is greater than ever. Many species remain data deficient or at risk of going extinct before sufficient conservation measures can be applied. In this review, we summarise existing knowledge regarding the biology and ecology of the Pacific sharpnose shark Rhizoprionodon longurio (Jordan & Hilbert, 1882), a small‐bodied carcharhinid shark found in coastal waters of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Ocean that is of both commercial and ecological importance. We compare ecological parameters of this species with its closest extant relatives and identify major knowledge gaps and avenues for future research. In particular, additional studies investigating the behavioural and sensory ecology, as well as potential migratory patterns of the species are needed. Such studies will not only improve our understanding of R. longurio, but provide insight into the extent to which the numerous studies performed on a close relative—Rhizoprionodon terraenovae—provide an accurate representation of the biology and ecology of Rhizoprionodon and carcharhinids more generally.
Quantifying streamflow properties using a calculus‐based differential approach
Authors: Koehler Richard
Published: October 2023

This research quantifies streamflow temporal configuration and demonstrates the advantages of examining the hydrologic record on a day‐to‐day basis, heretofore unavailable with statistical‐based index parameters. The streamflow chronological structure represents a previously untapped wealth of information that would benefit ecohydrology allowing alternate lines of investigation, re‐evaluating past research in a new light and expanding analysis options for ecohydrologists. Innovative approaches are introduced to quantify this important but overlooked hydrologic property. To accomplish this, a non‐index calculus‐based differential approach has been developed using the lag(1) temporal autocorrelation signature of streamflow. The techniques for quantifying discharge (Q), day‐to‐day discharge change (dQ/dt), rate of day‐to‐day discharge change (d2Q/dt2) and sequential discharge summations are explained and presented using updated data visualization methods. A dam release river impact case study for the Colorado River at Lees Ferry, Arizona, demonstrates this novel way of analyzing and comparing discharge datasets. A set of highly customizable tools for this new approach can be used as a stand‐alone analysis or to complement other existing techniques. The result is a better understanding of the hydrologic regime, permitting more focused research and more effective management planning.
Implementing a resilience‐based management system in Mongolia's rangelands
Authors: Dashbal Burmaa , Bestelmeyer Brandon T. , Densambuu Bulgamaa , Ulambayar Budbaatar , Sainnemekh Sumjidmaa , Van Zee Justin , Williamson Jeb , Battur Ankhtsetseg , Tseelei Enkh‐Amgalan
Published: October 2023

A primary challenge in advancing sustainability in rangelands and drylands is the lack of governance systems that are linked to information about highly variable ecosystem conditions. Here, we describe the national‐scale implementation of a resilience‐based management system in the rangelands of Mongolia. The system comprises several interacting elements. Land type‐specific information about rangeland conditions was captured in vegetation state‐and‐transition models (STMs) that allow interpretation of monitoring data and locally tailored restoration recommendations. Rangeland monitoring systems based on standardized protocols were developed and have been adopted by national government agencies, which provide annual, high‐quality data on rangeland conditions on which to base and adjust management decisions. Rangeland use agreements between local governments and herders' collective organizations, called Pasture Users' Groups, define their respective rights and responsibilities and introduce economic and policy incentives for management changes. Pasture Users' Groups also provide a platform for information sharing and collective action. Rangeland condition data and other indicators are linked to the Responsible Nomads product traceability system that provides consumers and industry a means to associate products with sustainable rangeland management practices. The collaboration between national agencies, international donors, scientists, and herders has been essential to initial success, but longer term support and monitoring will be needed to assess whether the adoption of resilience‐based management leads to positive social and ecological outcomes. We draw generalizations and lessons learned from this effort, which can lead to the successful implementation of new management systems across global rangelands.
Proactive use of intensive aversive conditioning increases probability of retreat by coyotes
Authors: Lajeunesse Gabrielle , Smith Eric W. , Harshaw Howard W. , St. Clair Colleen Cassady
Published: October 2023

Coyotes (Canis latrans) are showing increasingly bold behaviors toward people and their pets throughout North America. Bold behavior by wildlife might be reduced by hazing and aversive conditioning, which is recommended in many management plans for coyotes, but with little information about how it is to be conducted, and few studies have tested this approach. We conducted an online search for coyote management plans across North America to review techniques and recommendations related to the implementation of hazing or aversive conditioning and reported on the implementation of a high‐intensity aversive conditioning program in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Almost all the management plans recommended hazing coyotes, most often by using a combination of noises, lights, and movements, but only 20% of 71 plans recommended high‐intensity techniques like those used by the contractors in Calgary. Contractors there searched for coyotes in 72 public park areas where members of the public had submitted reports to a civic call center for bold coyotes, attended sites on 1917 occasions, observed coyotes on 765 occasions, and reported coyote treatments and responses on 734 occasions. The probability of coyote retreats increased by 29%–37% with each additional previous aversive conditioning event at the site and doubled with the presence of dogs and with the application of projected chalk balls prior to the event being investigated, suggesting coyotes learned to avoid contractors. During engagements with contractors, coyote retreat probability declined by 21%–25% with each additional day since the last aversive conditioning engagement, and by 97.2%–97.6% with the presence of dogs and when shots were fired from a paintball gun, presumably because these tools were used only on the boldest coyotes. We found no effect of the presence or past number of aversive conditioning events on the number of coyote reports per week by the public. Although such high‐intensity aversive conditioning is rarely recommended in management plans, our results suggest that its repeated application can reduce coyote boldness over time, but coyotes may not generalize this response to other people owing to visual cues (e.g., high‐visibility vests, consistent vehicles) associated with contractors.
Increased risk of poor clinical outcome in COVID‐19 patients with diabetes mellitus and in‐hospital mortality predictors: A retrospective cohort from a tertiary hospital in Indonesia
Authors: Mokoagow Md Ikhsan , Harbuwono Dante Saksono , Kshanti Ida Ayu , Rumende C. Martin , Subekti Imam , Harimurti Kuntjoro , Chen Khie , Shatri Hamzah
Published: October 2023

Aim

To determine association between diabetes in confirmed cases of COVID‐19 and intensive care admission and in‐hospital mortality, evaluate several laboratory parameters as mortality predictor and develop predictors of in‐hospital mortality among diabetics with COVID‐19.

Methods

This retrospective cohort recruited all cases of COVID‐19 hospitalized in Fatmawati General Hospital from March to October 2020. Inclusion criterion was RT‐PCR confirmed cases of COVID‐19 who aged 18 years and older while exclusion criteria were incomplete medical record or cannot be found and pregnant women.

Results

We enrolled 506 participants to this study with median age of 51 years (IQR:22), female (56.32%), and diabetes (28.46%). Diabetes increased intensive care admission (adjusted OR: 2.57; 95% CI: 3.52–10.43) and in‐hospital mortality (adjusted OR: 2.50; 95% CI: 1.61–3.89). In predicting in‐hospital mortality, ferritin and lactate dehydrogenase offered an acceptable discrimination, AUC: 0.71 (95% CI: 0.62–0.79) and AUC: 0.70 (95% CI: 0.61–0.78), respectively. The optimal cut‐off of predicting mortality for ferritin was 786 g/mL and for LDH was 514.94 u/L. Factors include age above 70 years old, RBGs level on admission above 250 mg/dL or below 140 mg/dL, ferritin level above 786 ng/mL and presence of ARDS increased the odds of mortality among individuals with diabetes.

Conclusions

Diabetes increases risk intensive care admission and in hospital mortality in COVID‐19. Multivariate analysis showed that older age, RBG on admission, high ferritin level, presence of ARDS increased the odds of mortality among individuals with diabetes.
Prevalence and factors associated with carotid atherosclerosis in a Malagasy population with Type 2 diabetes mellitus: A cross‐sectional retrospective study
Authors: Raharinavalona Sitraka Angelo , Miandrisoa Rija Mikhaël , Raherison Rija Eric , Razanamparany Thierry , Andrianasolo Radonirina Lazasoa , Rakotomalala Andrianirina Dave Patrick
Published: October 2023

Aim

Our study aims to determine the prevalence and factors associated with carotid atherosclerosis in Malagasy Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional retrospective study, carried out over a period of 30 months. The diagnosis of carotid atherosclerosis is established by the presence of a carotid plaque increased carotid intima‐media thickness ≥1.1 mm on Doppler ultrasound.

Results

We included 132 T2DM. The prevalence of carotid atherosclerosis was 63.6% (38.6% carotid plaque and 25% intima‐media thickening). After univariate analysis, the factors associated with carotid atherosclerosis were age ≥70 years (3.28 [1.18–10, 62]), previous intake of oral antidiabetics (0.33 [0.14–0.73]), insulin (0.28 [0.11–0.66]) and angiotensin receptor blocker (0.45 [0.20–0.98]), and current smoking (5.93 [1.64–32.6]). After adjustment for age and gender, previous intake of oral antidiabetics (0.29 [0.13–0.64]), insulin (0.27 [0.12–0.61]) and angiotensin receptor blocker (0.40 [0.19–0.86]), and current smoking (5.98 [1.61–22.1]) were associated with carotid atherosclerosis.

Conclusion

Smoking cessation, education on therapeutic compliance and comprehensive management of all cardiovascular risk factors and T2DM are therefore essential in order to reduce the occurrence of carotid atherosclerosis.
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, red cell distribution width, and sacubitril/valsartan
Authors: Butt Jawad H. , McDowell Kirsty , Kondo Toru , Desai Akshay S. , Lefkowitz Martin P. , Packer Milton , Petrie Mark C. , Pfeffer Marc A. , Rouleau Jean L. , Vaduganathan Muthiah , Zile Michael R. , Jhund Pardeep S. , Køber Lars , Solomon Scott , McMurray John J.V.
Published: October 2023

Aims

Red cell distribution width (RDW) is a strong prognostic marker in patients with heart failure (HF) and reduced ejection fraction and other conditions. However, very little is known about its prognostic significance in HF with preserved ejection fraction. We examined the relationship between RDW and outcomes and the effect of sacubitril/valsartan, compared with valsartan, on RDW and clinical outcomes in PARAGON‐HF.

Methods and results

PARAGON‐HF enrolled patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction of ≥45%, structural heart disease, and elevated N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP). The primary endpoint was a composite of total HF hospitalizations and cardiovascular deaths. Median RDW at randomization was 14.1% (interquartile range 13.5–15.0%). Patients with higher RDW levels were more often men and had more comorbidity, a higher heart rate and NT‐proBNP concentration, more advanced New York Heart Association class, and worse Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire scores. There was a graded relationship between quartiles of RDW at randomization and the primary endpoint, with a significantly higher risk associated with increasing RDW, even after adjustment for NT‐proBNP and other prognostic variables {Quartile 1, reference; Quartile 2, rate ratio 1.03 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.83 to 1.28]; Quartile 3, 1.25 [1.01 to 1.54]; Quartile 4, 1.70 [1.39 to 2.08]}. This association was seen for each of the secondary outcomes, including cardiovascular and all‐cause death. Compared with valsartan, sacubitril/valsartan reduced RDW at 48 weeks [mean change −0.09 (95% CI −0.15 to −0.02)]. The effect of sacubitril/valsartan vs. valsartan was not significantly modified by RDW levels at randomization.

Conclusions

RDW, a routinely available and inexpensive biomarker, provides incremental prognostic information when added to established predictors. Compared with valsartan, sacubitril/valsartan led to a small reduction in RDW.
Exhaustive Reduction of Esters, Carboxylic Acids and Carbamates to Methyl Groups Catalyzed by Boronic Acids
Authors: Guo Xuewen , Zuo Yujing , Alvarez Gustavo A. , Mejía Esteban
Published: October 2023

Carboxy to methyl reduction is an important transformation in organic synthesis, yet existing methodologies often require multi‐step procedures or use hazardous metal hydrides. Herein, a metal‐free catalytic system is reported for the one‐step reduction of esters, carboxylic acids, and carbamates to a methyl group, in the presence of catalytic amounts of boronic acids. By using ammonia borane as a hydrogen donor, a wide range of products bearing different functional groups can be obtained in high yields under relatively mild conditions. Mechanistic studies and control experiments elucidate the complexity of the mechanism and provide an explanation for the observed selectivity.
Unified multi‐objective optimization for regional power systems with unequal distribution of renewable energy generation and load
Authors: Zhao Long , Meng Xiangfei , Yang Lichao , Wei Jia
Published: October 2023

The optimization for large‐scale power systems with unequal renewable energy distribution is an important and urgent task to collaborate operations of the participated sub‐grids. This article proposes a novel method by utilizing the unified multi‐objective optimization (MOO) to integrate diverse strategies to a comprehensive problem. For this aim, individual optimal model is first established to describe the demands of each sub‐grid. The overall objectives are unified in terms of economy costs. This unification integrates evaluate different optimized results without loss of generality. The global objective is the weighted sum of the individual objectives with empirical coefficient. Thus, the internal coupled restrictions and influences among sub‐grids can be solved simultaneously. Finally, by adjusting the corresponding weights according to the preferred requirement, the optimized solution can effectively allocate renewable energy throughout all sub‐grids. Consequently, both individual and global requirements can be met at utmost. The proposed unified MOO is tested on the configured systems based on multiple modified PJM 9‐bus grids. Satisfying the global optimum of the multi‐region joint system, the total system cost increases by 15.1%, the industrial zone cost increases by 21.4%, and the residential load shedding loss cost increases by 27.3%. Although each region has to sacrifice some of its benefits, the compromise operational behavior ensures that the total cost is optimal. Numerical results verify the effectiveness in achieving the promising global optimal solution, and the flexibility in meeting the requirements of different sub‐grids.
Effects of aeration and season on the composting of hatchery waste
Authors: de Oliveira Juliana Dias , Orrico Ana Carolina Amorim , da Silva Vilela Ranielle Nogueira , Orrico Junior Marco Antonio Previdelli , Aspilcueta Borquis Rusbel Raul , Tomazi Michely , Leite Brenda Kelly Viana
Published: October 2023

Hatchery waste is characterized as biomass with a high concentration of pollutants, therefore, such waste should be composted in static windrows in the initial phase of the process. The current research was carried out aiming to investigate the need for forced aeration in static piles built in cells with perforated walls during the composting of hatchery waste, in association with a bulking agent, during winter and summer. Aeration resulted in greater breakdown of volatile solids (VS), carbon (C), and lignin in the summer up to 50 days of composting. However, at 70 and 90 days, the results between aerated and non‐aerated windrows were similar. The highest N breakdown took place during winter with no aeration. The concentrations of humic acids were influenced only by the season and were higher in the compost generated during summer. Micronutrient concentrations in the compost were impacted by season and were higher in the summer. It is concluded that, in winter, forced aeration is only recommended after 50 days of composting, whereas in summer, forced aeration was beneficial throughout the composting process.
Performance optimization of solar pump operating by PV module
Authors: Singh Vineet , Yadav Vinod Singh , Trivedi Vaibhav , Singh Manoj Kumar
Published: October 2023

In this research article, the objective of the work is to maximize the performance of solar pump based on input variables. The solar panel and motor pump set are the important parts of solar pump. The overall performance of the solar pump has been depending on the performance of solar panels and motor pump set. The tilt angle, surface azimuth angle, module temperature and speed of motor are most important input parameters on which whole performance of solar pump depends. So, for fulling these objectives a 5 hp (horsepower) solar pump has been installed in FET MJP Rohilkhand University, Bareilly located at 28.36° N, 79.43° E. The experimental data of output parameters at the different settings of input parameters and data generated by model equations have been optimized by the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) tool of Design of Experiments (DOE). The optimum setting of input parameters are Tilt Angle (TA) (36.22°), Surface Azimuth Angle (SA) (−1.26°), Module Temperature (MT), and speed of the motor (2169.69 RPM). On the optimum setting of input parameters, the values of the response are maximum Solar Flux (SF) (762 W/m2), maximum power output (3661.4578 W), minimum discharge (19.2681 m3/h), head developed (55.17 m), maximum motor efficiency (90.7488%), maximum exergetic efficiency (15.3799%), minimum Levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) (0.0361 $/KWh), maximum panel efficiency (17.1774%) and maximum overall efficiency (15.0117%).
Optimum design and analysis of solar pump with the help of genetic algorithm, a MATLAB tool, and RSM tool at minimum cost
Authors: Singh Vineet , Yadav Vinod Singh , Kumar Niraj , Kumar Manoj , Singh Manoj Kumar
Published: October 2023

In this research paper, a well‐performing solar pump at the minimum cost of project life is designed and installed. Initially, the capacity of submersible pumps and discharge have been determined based on the water requirement of the crop and the size of the field. The total number of solar panels, inverter size, and motor pump system have been designed based on the law of conservation of energy. The two optimization techniques genetic algorithm (GA) and response surface methodology (RSM) have been used for analyzing the pump performance parameters and total cost. The GA tool has been used to determine the optimum tilt angle on which responses namely solar flux, solar panel efficiency, exergy, and pump efficiency should be maximum. Moreover, the performance of the solar pump at the optimum tilt angle has been compared with the 28° fixed tilt angle (latitute of location). For the experimental study solar pump experimental setup of 5 hp power has been installed in Faculty of Engineering and Technology, MJP Rohilkhand University at 28.36°N, 79.43°E. The total cost of the solar pump has been optimized with the help of RSM based on the discharge and head of the solar pump. The new optimization approach reduced the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) from 0.041 to 0.035 $/kWh and the payback period is reduced from 4 to 3 years. The annual increment in average solar flux and overall efficiency has been recorded to be from 606 to 697 W/m2 and 11% to 14% respectively.
Study on the disturbance characteristics and control strategies of coordinated exploitation of superimposed resources of coal and oil‐type gas in Ordos Basin
Authors: Hao Dingyi , Zhang Tong , Yang Yingbing , Ren Jiaming
Published: October 2023

At present, the coordinated exploitation of coal measures‐associated resources is facing many problems, such as wide range, complex technology, and lack of in‐depth theoretical research. To study and solve the coordinated exploitation of coal and oil‐type gas‐associated superimposed resources, taking Huangling No.2 mine in Ordos Basin as an example, a fluid–solid coupling finite element model for coal mining in associated mines is constructed, and the variation laws of axial stress, displacement, stability and oil‐type gas pressure of each gas reservoir at different advancing distances of coal face are numerically simulated and the disturbance characteristics of the mining coal seam to the gas reservoir are obtained. The fluid–solid coupling finite element model of associated mine extraction is constructed, and the variation laws of axial stress, displacement, stability, and oil‐type gas pressure of the gas reservoir and coal seam when extracted from different gas reservoirs are numerically simulated. The disturbance characteristics of the surface‐extracted gas reservoir to the coal seam are obtained. The study results show that the larger the interval between the gas reservoir and the mining coal seam, the smaller the degree of disturbance, and the pressure relief effect of the oil‐type gas in the gas reservoir is positively related to its displacement; the surface drilling extract oil‐type gas, the oil‐type gas in the underlying gas reservoir will migrate and supplement to the extracted layer, and the plastic area around the extraction well basically appears in the mudstone layer and coal seam, and the gas reservoir near the coal seam has good pressure relief effect. Combined with the mutual disturbance characteristics between gas reservoir extraction and coal seam extraction and the field practice, disturbance control strategies for coordinated exploitation of superimposed resources of coal and oil‐type gas in Ordos Basin are proposed.
Directional rock blasting using shaped charges using combined charge liners with different shapes
Authors: Liu Kaixin , Zhang Yiping , Hou Tianliang , Miao Yusong , Zhao Xin , Zhang Mei
Published: October 2023

The shape of a charge liner used in shaped charges with a combined liner will greatly influence the blasting effect. In this study, we examined how combined charge liners with different shapes affected directional rock blasting, and we assessed the influence mechanism. The numerical simulation results showed that among the three shaped charge liners, liners with arc and triangular shapes performed significantly better than the flat‐top liner, and the triangular liner was slightly superior to the arc‐shaped liner. Model testing indicated that principal cracks in the arc‐shaped and triangular liners developed along the combined energy‐gathering direction, while the principal cracks of the flat‐top liner deviated 32° from the axis. Therefore, the directional cracking effect of arc‐shaped and triangular liners was superior to the flat‐top liner. According to the peak strain values on the liners, the peak strain in the combined energy‐gathering direction was greater than that in the slot and nonenergy‐gathering directions, and the order of the peak strain of the three liners followed arc‐shaped liner > triangular liner > flat‐top liner. The directional blasting effect of the triangular liner was slightly better than the arc‐shaped liner. In conclusion, the findings of this study suggested that the best directional rock‐blasting effect was achieved when the shape of the combined charge liner was triangular.
The theoretical approach of the solar organic Rankine cycle integrated with phase change material for the Hungarian region
Authors: Permana Diki I. , Rusirawan Dani , Farkas István
Published: October 2023

Hungary is not only dependent on imports of natural gas and fossil fuels, but Hungary is also the lowest in renewable energy utilization; otherwise, only 11.3% compared to other Central European countries in renewable energy utilization, above 13%. The percentage of renewables in power generation quadrupled from 8% to 16% between 2010 and 2020, with most of the gains coming from the rapid expansion of solar energy, particularly after 2016. Regarding solar energy resource potential, Hungary has a daily total of around 3.2–3.6 kWh/m2 and a yearly total of about 1168–1314 kW.h/m2. This makes it a suitable location for putting solar thermal collectors in conjunction with an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) system. In this study, the authors analyzed solar thermal as a heat source to generate electricity with ORC using two types of working fluids (R245fa and R123). Hungary's weather data for a whole year is used as primary data to look for solar radiation characteristics and ambient temperature. Based on the general solar collector equation, the parabolic tube collector was selected as the best solar collector to utilize solar radiation by producing a maximum heat of around 654.68 kW. Therefore, the evacuated flat plate collector was selected as the solar collector that can produce the maximum outlet temperature of around 372.15 K with a similar size aperture area. Producing a temperature output from the solar collector for heat transfer in the ORC system and from the performance showed that R245fa resulted in better Wnet performance compared with R123 with values of 45.82 and 28.17 kW, respectively, under the same solar collector. Meanwhile, the material suitable for the thermal energy storage‐evaporator combination is organic phase change material using N‐Octacosane, which in the same temperature range (350–375 K) has the smallest ζ(T) value (1.08–1.103), so the mass required for the system is very efficient.
Bioavailability and Toxicity Models of Copper to Freshwater Life: The State of Regulatory Science
Authors: Mebane Christopher A.
Published: October 2023

Efforts to incorporate bioavailability adjustments into regulatory water quality criteria in the United States have included four major procedures: hardness-based single-linear regression equations, water-effect ratios (WERs), biotic ligand models (BLMs), and multiple-linear regression models (MLRs) that use dissolved organic carbon, hardness, and pH. The performance of each with copper (Cu) is evaluated, emphasizing the relative performance of hardness-based versus MLR-based criteria equations. The WER approach was shown to be inherently highly biased. The hardness-based model is in widest use, and the MLR approach is the US Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA's) present recommended approach for developing aquatic life criteria for metals. The performance of criteria versions was evaluated with numerous toxicity datasets that were independent of those used to develop the MLR models, including olfactory and behavioral toxicity, and field and ecosystem studies. Within the range of water conditions used to develop the Cu MLR criteria equations, the MLR performed well in terms of predicting toxicity and protecting sensitive species and ecosystems. In soft waters, the MLR outperformed both the BLM and hardness models. In atypical waters with pH <5.5 or >9, neither the MLR nor BLM predictions were reliable, suggesting that site-specific testing would be needed to determine reliable Cu criteria for such settings. The hardness-based criteria performed poorly with all toxicity datasets, showing no or weak ability to predict observed toxicity. In natural waters, MLR and BLM criteria versions were strongly correlated. In contrast, the hardness-criteria version was often out of phase with the MLR and, depending on waterbody and season, could be either strongly overprotective or underprotective. The MLR-based USEPA-style chronic criterion appears to be more generally protective of ecosystems than other models. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:2529–2563. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
The flow of anisotropic nanoparticles in solution and in blood
Authors: Lovegrove Jordan Thomas , Kent Ben , Förster Stephan , Garvey Christopher J. , Stenzel Martina H.
Published: October 2023

The alignment of anisotropic nanoparticles in flow has been used for a range of applications such as the preparation of strong fibres and the assembly of in‐plane aligned 1D‐nanoobjects that are used for electronic devices, sensors, energy and biological application. Important is also the flow behaviour of nanoparticles that were designed for nanomedical applications such as drug delivery. It is widely observed that non‐spherical nanoparticles have longer circulation times and a more favourable biodistribution. To be able to understand this behaviour, researchers have turned to analyzing the flow of non‐spherical nanoparticles in the blood stream. In this review, an overview of microfluidic techniques that are used to monitor the alignment of anisotropic nanoparticles in solution will be provided, which includes analysis by small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) and polarized light microscopy. The flow of these nanoparticles in blood is then discussed as the presence of red blood cells causes margination of some nanoparticles. Using fluorescence microscopy, the extent of margination can be identified, which coincides with the ability of nanoparticles to adhere to the cells grown along the wall. While these studies are mainly carried out in vitro using blood, initial investigations in vivo were able to confirm the unusual flow of anisotropic nanoparticles.
Resistance of wheat genotypes to Mycosphaerella graminicola isolates at seedling stage under greenhouse conditions
Authors: Bakhshi Tayebeh , Ahmadi Farajollah Shahriari , Sarbarzeh Mostafa Aghaee , Mehrabi Rahim , Seifi Alireza
Published: October 2023

One of the most devastating foliar diseases of wheat worldwide is Septoria leaf blotch (STB), caused by Mycosphaerella graminicola (asexual stage/Anamorph: Septoria tritici) which has been recently intensified in some regions in Iran. In this study, 49 wheat genotypes and 20 wheat differential genotypes were evaluated for their reaction to infection by six isolates of M. graminicola collected from infected fields during 2016–2017 at seedling stage under greenhouse conditions. According to the analysis of variance (ANOVA) of leaf pycnidia coverage percentage, a significant difference (p < .01) was observed between M. graminicola isolates and wheat cultivars. The interaction between genotypes and isolates was also significant (p < .01) and the results indicated a specific interaction between genotypes and isolates. The results presented Dezful and West Azerbaijan isolates that were the most virulent with more pathogenesis on differential genotypes. Although 47 of the wheat genotypes were susceptible to all isolates, some genotypes, including Wc‐46,224 (Austria), Wc‐45,425 (Portugal), Wc‐45,565 (Turkey), P.S.No4 (Italy), Dehdasht, M3 Synthetic, KavKaz‐k4500, Arina, Flame, and Riband were resistant to all isolates. In addition, the isolates exhibited different virulence patterns on wheat genotypes. The results of this study revealed high virulence of M. graminicola isolates, and Iranian and foreign wheat genotypes, commonly used in the region, presented high susceptibility, and the resistance sources had been identified among genotypes that can be applied in the wheat breeding programs.
Body composition phase angle: A potential predictor of vitamin D status in early pregnancy
Authors: Wang Ziqin , Wang Huiqun , Zheng Dan , Liu Jing , Liu Yanping
Published: October 2023

Phase angle and vitamin D can reflect the state of the body cells, and the two may interact with each other. Therefore, this study was conducted to find out the relationship between PA and vitamin D. Taking women in early pregnancy as our study subjects, we found that PA had a positive effect on vitamin D levels. Body composition phase angle, as a noninvasive, easy‐to‐operate, and easy‐to‐monitor indicator, can be used an early screening index for vitamin D nutrition levels in early pregnancy, and the cutoff value was 4.95°.
Prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its association with oral health: First results from the Kurdish cohort study
Authors: Moradpour Farhad , Karimi Zahra , Fatemi Zeinab , Moradi Yousef , Khosravi Mohammad Rastegar , Shokri Azad , Karimzadeh Mohammad
Published: October 2023

Aims

Investigate the association between oral and dental health (ODH) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in adults aged 35–70 years.

Methods

The study utilized data from the enrollment phase of Dehgolan prospective cohort study in the west of Iran. A cross‐sectional assessment was conducted on a total of 3996 participants, involving a comprehensive oral examination and the assessment of their oral hygiene behavior (ODH). MetS was defined according to the updated National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III. Logistic regression used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics.

Results

MetS was more prevalent among those who not daily brushing and flossing. Participants with missing teeth (MT) show higher prevalent of MetS. Being female, lower age, illiteracy, family history of diabetes, low physical activity, and salt at table were independently associated with increase odds of MetS (p < 0.05). Odds of MetS were significantly decreased with use flossing (OR = 0.75; CI = 0.60–0.93), decayed (OR = 0.83; CI = 0.72–0.97), filled (OR = 0.84; CI = 0.71–0.99), and increased with MT (OR = 1.45; CI = 1.16–1.81) as long as adjusted for ODH factors. When other potential confounder such as sociodemographic, personal and nutritional habits were adjusted, daily flossing was the only factor that still statistically decreased (OR = 0.79; CI = 0.62–0.99) the odds of MetS.

Conclusion

Daily flossing was the only factor that independently associated with MetS. Relationship of other ODH factors with Mets were confounded by sociodemographic characteristics of the participants.
Postpandemic fear of COVID‐19, psychological distress, and resilient coping among frontline health workers in Ghana: An analytical cross‐sectional study
Authors: Fofie Evelyn Adu , Ekpor Emmanuel , Akyirem Samuel
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has significantly impacted the psychological well‐being of healthcare workers globally. However, little is known about the mental health state of frontline health workers in the postpandemic era. The purpose of this study was to examine postpandemic COVID‐19‐related psychological distress and fear among frontline health workers in Ghana.

Methods

Data were collected from 245 frontline healthcare workers in the Western region of Ghana. COVID‐19‐related fear, psychological distress, and resilient coping were assessed with the fear of COVID‐19 scale, Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, and the Brief Resilient Coping Scale, respectively. Multiple linear regression was used to assess the association between psychological distress and fear of COVID‐19 as well as the moderating effects of resilient coping.

Results

Participants were mostly female (57.1%), aged between 21 and 30 years (50.6%), and not married (58.0%). We found that 52.2% of frontline healthcare workers experienced mild‐to‐severe fear, while 40% experienced psychological distress. Fear of COVID‐19, previous contact with COVID‐19 patients, and earning a monthly income between 501 and 1000 Ghanaian cedis were significantly associated with higher psychological distress. The positive association between fear of COVID‐19 and psychological distress was stronger among frontline health workers who had higher resilient coping.

Conclusion

There is the need to provide frontline health workers with mental health support services to promote their psychological well‐being and enhance their ability to provide quality care during the postpandemic era.
Compound passive heat transfer augmentation techniques: A comprehensive review
Authors: Al‐Chlaihawi Kadhim K. Idan , Hasan Moayed R. , Ekaid Ali L.
Published: October 2023

The function of energy is becoming increasingly vital in meeting the requirements of modern societies and sustaining rapid economic and industrial growth globally. Heat transfer equipment has been employed for heat recovery and conversion in various domestic and industrial applications. Therefore, due to the recent global energy crisis, boosting the thermal efficiency of energy systems has become an essential requirement, which would reduce both their size and rates of energy demand. There are active and passive methods for boosting heat transfer rates. As they have no moving components, passive methods are more affordable and dependable than active ones. Applying two or more passive techniques concurrently will result in a higher heat transmission rate than any approach working independently. The current article comprehensively reviews experimental and computational investigations of passive compound forced convection heat transfer augmentation techniques at laminar, transition, and turbulent flow regimes. This article focuses on compound techniques arrangement in the form of turbulators, typical twisted tapes (TTs), surface roughness, vortex generators, and so on. The pioneering research suggests that using a lower twist ratio, lower pitch, and smaller winglet angles in TTs can result in higher heat transfer rates, albeit with a slightly increased friction factor. The combination of alternate‐axes and wings in TTs leads to more effective heat transfer enhancement within the tube.
Effect of lidocaine on cognitively impaired rats: Anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms in combination with CRMP2 antiphosphorylation
Authors: Zheng Xiaohong , Lin Yuerong , Huang Linshen , Lin Xianzhong
Published: October 2023

Objective

Studies have shown that lidocaine has antioxidative stress, anti‐inflammatory, and nerve‐protective effects. The current study investigated the effects of lidocaine on cognitive function in rats with cognitive dysfunction.

Methods

A total of 48 rats were randomly assigned to four groups of 12 rats each: control group; L (lidocaine) + D (d‐galactose) group,
d‐galactose group (D group); and D + L group. We assessed cognitive function using a Morris water maze (MWM) and pathologic changes of hippocampal sections. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELIZA) was used to detect serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in rats, and protein immunoblotting (western blot) was used to detect brain tissue proteins (collapsing response mediator protein‐2 [CRMP2], phosphorylated‐collapsing response mediator protein‐2 [P‐CRMP2], and β‐amyloid protein [Aβ]).

Results

The MWM showed that the d‐gal group (284.09 ± 20.46, 5.20 ± 0.793) performed worse than the L + D (265.37 ± 22.34, 4.170 ± 0.577; p = .000) and D + L groups (254.72 ± 27.87, 3.750; p = .000) in escape latency and number of platform crossings, respectively. The L + D group (44.94 ± 2.92 pg/mL, 6.22 ± 0.50 pg/mL, and 460.02 ± 8.26 nmol/mL) and D + L group (46.88 ± 2.63 pg/mL, 5.90 ± 0.38 pg/mL, and 465.6 ± 16.07 nmol/mL) had significantly lower serum inflammatory levels of interleukin‐6, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and MDA than the
d‐gal group (57.79 ± 3.96 pg/mL, 11.25 ± 1.70 pg/mL, and 564.9 ± 15.90 nmol/mL), respectively. The L + D group (3.17 ± 0.41 μg/mL) and D + L group (3.08 ± 0.09 μg/mL) had significantly higher serum inflammatory levels of SOD than the
d‐gal group (2.20 ± 0.13 μg/mL) (all p = .000). The levels of CRMP2, P‐CRMP2, and Aβ in the brain tissue homogenates of the L + D group (0.87 ± 0.04, 0.57 ± 0.0, and 0.16 ± 0.02) and the D + L group (0.82 ± 0.05, 0.58 ± 0.09, and 0.15 ± 0.02) were significantly different than the
d‐gal group (0.67 ± 0.03, 0.96 ± 0.040, and 0.29 ± 0.05).

Conclusions

Lidocaine was shown to reduce cognitive impairment in rats with cognitive dysfunction through anti‐inflammatory and antioxidative stress mechanisms in combination with CRMP2 antiphosphorylation.
Clinical efficacy of plasma exchange in systemic lupus erythematosus during pregnancy
Authors: Zhang Fen , Zhang Bing‐Ying , Fan Ru , Cheng Ting , Hu Xiao‐Rong , Liu Yu‐Qing , Cen Xing , Bu Yu‐Jie , Cao Jian‐Ping , Chen Feng‐Wu , Chen Jun‐Wei
Published: October 2023

Objective

To investigate the clinical efficacy of plasma exchange (PE) with or without prednisone and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) during pregnancy.

Methods

The clinical characteristics of 14 pregnant women with SLE admitted to our hospital were retrospectively analyzed, including 7 only treated with prednisone and HCQ (non‐PE group) as well as 7 combined PE (PE group). The delivery situations of 14 patients were recorded. Data like erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), urine protein, platelet count, and SLEDAI scores were compared between two groups before treatment and 3, 6, and 12 months after delivery.

Results

Three patients in the non‐PE group ended in miscarriage while all patients in the PE group were delivered successfully. Eleven successfully delivered fetuses in the two groups were healthy, and the Apgar scores were over 8. The ESR of the PE group was significantly lower than that of the non‐PE group at 6 and 12 months after delivery, while there was no statistical difference in ESR between the two groups before treatment and 3 months after delivery. The ESR and urine protein were significantly higher in the non‐PE group at months 3, 6, and 12 postpartum. There was a significant decrease in disease activity postpartum in the PE group compared to predelivery disease activity. The change in platelet counts between the two groups significantly increased over time in the PE group, while SLEDAI scores decreased.

Conclusions

The combination of PE and oral prednisone and HCQ is possibly a more effective treatment than oral prednisone and HCQ alone for patients with active SLE during pregnancy. This treatment option reduces pregnancy loss and promotes the patients' postpartum condition to a certain extent.
Do age at diagnosis, tumour thickness and tumour site explain sex differences in melanoma survival? A causal mediation analysis using cancer registry data
Authors: Afshar Nina , Dashti S. Ghazaleh , Mar Victoria , te Marvelde Luc , Evans Sue , Milne Roger L. , English Dallas R.
Published: October 2023

Women diagnosed with melanoma have better survival than men, but little is known about potential intervention targets to reduce this survival gap by sex. We conducted a population‐based study using Victorian Cancer Registry data including 5833 women and 6780 men aged 15 to 70 years when diagnosed with first primary melanoma between 2007 and 2015. Deaths to the end of 2020 were identified through linkage to the Victorian and national death registries. We estimated the effect of age at diagnosis, tumour thickness and tumour site on reducing the melanoma‐specific survival gap by sex (ie, interventional indirect effects [IIEs]) on risk difference (RD) scale. Compared to women, there were 211 (95% CI: 145‐278) additional deaths per 10 000 in men within 5 years following diagnosis. We estimated that 44% of this gap would be reduced by a hypothetical intervention shifting the distribution of melanoma thickness in men to be the same as that observed for women (IIEthickness RD 93 [95% CI: 75‐118] per 10 000) and 20% by an intervention on tumour site (head and neck/trunk vs upper limb/lower limb; IIEsite RD 42 [95% CI: 15‐72] per 10 000), while an intervention on age at diagnosis would have a negligible effect. Tumour thickness, tumour site and age at diagnosis mediated 65% of the effect of sex on 5‐year melanoma survival in Victoria. Of these factors, tumour thickness had the most considerable mediating effect, suggesting that effective promotion of earlier detection of melanoma in men could potentially nearly halve the gap in melanoma‐specific survival by sex.
Corporate price dynamics during and after the COVID‐19 pandemic: Insights from a partial equilibrium model
Authors: Sánchez Serrano Antonio
Published: October 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic created an unprecedented demand and supply shock to the world economies. To understand its impact on corporate prices, we define a partial equilibrium model where non‐financial corporations operating in three sectors (suppliers, end‐producers and service providers) optimize their production under monopolistic competition and are subject to demand and supply shocks of different intensities. Our model confirms that when the demand shock dominates, prices tend to decrease. We then introduce data from the COVID‐19 pandemic in the European Union into our model and find that prices are expected to fall in the most acute phase of the pandemic, when lockdowns and similar health measures decrease demand, and to increase later as a result of tensions in the supply of intermediate goods and of the persistence of the supply shock. Inventories could play a decisive role in avoiding price increases in the moderate phase of the pandemic. In the post‐pandemic period, higher prices may continue for a time until the shock to suppliers vanishes. These are relevant insights on the macroeconomic impact of worldwide pandemics, also considering the current macroeconomic environment.
FIGO best practice guidance in surgical consent
Authors: Topcu E. Goknur , McClenahan Phil , Pule Koketso , Khattak Hajra , Karsli S. Eda , Cukelj Marijo , Ubom Akaninyene E. , Algurjia Esraa , Ozpinar Kubra , Perez Yotin Ramon , Bunu Rashid , Sanabria Leopoldo S. , Portilla Francisco J. R. , Pumpure Elizabete , Roy Priyankur , Fogarty Paul ,   FIGO Education Communication and Advocacy Committee
Published: October 2023

Obtaining medical consent preoperatively is one of the key steps in preparing for surgery, and is an important step in informed decision making with the patient. According to good medical practice guidelines, doctors are required to have the knowledge and skills to treat patients as well as inform them, respect their wishes, and establish trust between themselves and their patients. Valid consent includes elements of competence, disclosure, understanding, and voluntariness. Documentation of these elements is also very important. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) Education Communication and Advocacy Consortium (ECAC) has realized that the quality of consent varies considerably across the world and has developed simple guidelines regarding consent and procedure‐specific checklists for the most common obstetric and gynecological procedures.