bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elastic Local Buckling Strength of Wide Flange Beams Web Subjected to End Moment and Distributed Load
Authors: Nakano Tomoki , Ikarashi Kikuo , Mitsui Kazuya
Published: September 2022

The buckling modes of wide flange beams are classified as lateral buckling and local buckling. AIJ Recommendations for Stability Design of Steel Structure [1] for these buckling modes are based on elastic buckling strength. It is therefore important to understand the elastic buckling strength and buckling modes of wide flange beams. The current design specifications make provisions based on simple stress states such as uniform compression and pure shear stress. For long‐span beams, which are currently used in many structural members, dead loads dominate in short‐term loading. However, few studies have considered stress changes due to distributed loading, and the specifications do not adequately consider actual design situations. The aim of this study is to determine the elastic local buckling strength of the web of wide flange beam subjected to uniformly distributed load and end moments. The subject is the web with 4 edge fixed support and the analysis method is a theoretical analysis using the energy method. By considering the difference between the maximum positions of bending stresses and shear stresses, the buckling strength and buckling mode could be correctly determined. The shear buckling coefficient enabled a unified classification of the buckling modes.
On the Choice of Eigenmode Shapes for Interactive Cases of Local and Global Buckling of RHS/SHS and I‐Shaped Sections
Authors: Müller Andreas , Vild Martin , Taras Andreas
Published: September 2022

Better and simpler possibilities of structural optimization due to increasing computational power but also for reasons of environmental sustainability, the use of materials and their reusability lead to greater acceptance towards more advanced numerically intensive, so‐called “design by analysis” methods like geometrically and materially nonlinear analyses with imperfections (GMNIA). The general choice of imperfections and their combination in such models, especially for slender cross‐sections of intermediate length prone to an interaction between a global and local plate‐buckling, is crucial in terms of the reached load‐bearing capacity. Annex C of EN 1993‐1‐5 make use of the “70%‐rule” for the combination of imperfection modes and amplitudes. This rule postulates that two GMNIA calculations should be carried out when local and global interactive buckling may be dominant; one with 100% + 70% of the maximum specified amplitude in either case. In addition, extended information is provided on the choice and combination of imperfections in the newly introduced and currently available draft of the prEN1993‐1‐14:2020 (Design assisted by finite element analysis). Although information is provided how the local and global imperfections should be combined, it is not stated when it is relevant to consider those. Based on carried out GMNIA simulations on SHS/RHS and I‐shaped sections, this paper presents a general decision support on the choice of equivalent imperfections. Based on numerical analysis, the developed flowchart and design routine allows for the decision whether the consideration of the interaction of local and global imperfections is required or not.
An Elasto‐plastic Finite Element for the Analysis of Planar Steel Beams
Authors: Nedelcu Mihai
Published: September 2022

The following paper presents an original finite element formulation for the elasto‐plastic analysis of planar homogeneous isotropic beams. The one‐dimensional elastic‐perfectly plastic material behavior is considered. The approach is based on innovative shape functions able to capture the formation of elasto‐plastic regions at the ends of the beam element. While the proposed shape functions can theoretically handle any cross‐section, in this paper the formulation is developed only for rectangular cross‐sections. Linear geometric behavior is considered. The formulation is validated by comparisons with the upper bound method of plastic limit analysis in terms of ultimate loading, and with simulations using shell FE analyses in terms of load‐displacement response and development of the plastic regions.
Exploring Machine Learning for the Stability Analysis of Rotary‐straightened Steel Members with Multiple Stiffness Reduction Models
Authors: Koh Hyeyoung , Rosson Barry T. , Blum Hannah B.
Published: September 2022

Rotary straightened structural steel cross‐sections have a different residual stress pattern compared to those without rotary straightening, which affects structural behavior, especially in members subjected to inelastic buckling. A stiffness reduction material model for rotary‐straightened hot rolled sections was previously developed and validated for a specific set of cross‐section sizes and load conditions. Previous research has indicated that the current stiffness reduction model specified in Chapter C of AISC 360 for stability design does not accurately capture the stiffness reduction of rotary straightened W‐shapes. Particularly, the current stiffness reduction model does not always derive conservative capacity compared with the model for rotary straightened sections. This paper explores machine learning for predicting the beam‐column capacity considering different stiffness reduction models and estimating their limit load capacity. Two extreme gradient boosting models were developed for beam‐columns under major or minor axis bending. The dataset contained 1,296 finite element simulations for beam‐columns with a range of different cross‐section geometries. Excellent prediction accuracy of the developed machine learning models showed the potential of using machine learning for the stability analysis of rotary‐straightened members.
On the Development of Artificial Neural Network Models of the Critical Moment of Tapered Beams
Authors: Couto Carlos
Published: September 2022

The design of steel structures using elements with non‐uniform geometry is common in practice, both for aesthetic reasons and material optimization. Tapered beams are one of such examples which are widely used. This work is focused on the development of artificial neural networks to predict the critical moment of tapered beams subject to bending moments applied at the extremities since no analytical methods are currently available. Almost 70k data samples were calculated using the Finite Element Method (FEM) with shell elements and were used to train and validate the neural network models. The definition of the data samples was based on a random generation procedure with constrained geometric proportions to reduce their number. The accuracy of the developed model is further illustrated on some particular cases and against the FE results of other authors.

Finally, it is demonstrated that neural network models are fast and reliable assessment tools that can be employed during the search of optimal structural solutions in the early design stages.
A Consistent Approach for Stability Verification of Steel Structures
Authors: Nonn Jonas , Wilden Vera , Feldmann Markus
Published: September 2022

The “General Method” according to chapter 6.3.4 of EN1993‐1‐1 [1] or 8.3.4 of prEN1993‐1‐1 [2] deals with the verification of stability problems of frame and beam structures with loadings in‐plane. The “General method” according to Eurocode is intended for the general case of a combined moment and normal force. For the choice of the reduction factor χop, there are two options for applying the reduction curve, either the minimum of that of lateral torsional buckling (LTB) and flexural buckling (FB) or a weighted combination of both. With the use of analytical derivations, it can be shown that this approach leads to inconsistencies which can possibly lead to incorrect results. The intended generality of the EC3 formulation therefore should be put under scrutinizing. The approach presented in this paper can solve this problem and leads to unification, which allows the verification of stability of e.g. an entire frame system directly and without interaction factors (as in the equivalent member method). In addition, the issue of a consistent equivalent imperfection is addressed. With the use of the General Method non‐linear analyses of structures showing out‐of‐plane instability can be omitted; only an in‐plane calculation and a determination of the critical load is necessary. Finally, examples are presented in this paper that demonstrate the application of the approach shown.
Cytohistologic immunohistochemical correlation of epithelial tubo‐ovarian neoplasms: Can cell blocks substitute for tissue?
Authors: Lou Si Kei , Hodgson Anjelica , Nofech‐Mozes Sharon , Schwock Joerg , Olkhov‐Mitsel Ekaterina , Mirkovic Jelena , Ghorab Zeina
Published: September 2022

Background

Cytologic specimens often represent the initial diagnostic material for tubo‐ovarian neoplasms resulting from therapeutic paracentesis for patients presenting with high‐volume ascites. However, subtyping and immunohistochemical (IHC) characterization, which have implications in preoperative management and downstream ancillary testing, are not routinely performed in many institutions. This study aims to perform cytohistologic correlation of commonly used IHC stains to establish their reliability in peritoneal fluids/washing specimens.

Methods

A retrospective search of the laboratory information systems was performed to identify peritoneal fluid/washing specimens involved by borderline or malignant epithelial tubo‐ovarian neoplasms and concurrent/subsequent surgical resection specimens. Cell blocks and tissue were stained for PAX8, WT‐1, p53, p16, Napsin‐A, estrogen receptor, and progesterone receptor, and staining between cytological and surgical specimens was compared.

Results

A total of 56 case pairs were included, with the following final diagnoses on histological examination: 37 high‐grade serous carcinomas, eight clear cell carcinomas, one endometrioid adenocarcinoma, two low‐grade serous carcinomas, and eight serous borderline tumors. There was perfect cytohistologic correlation for PAX8 (Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient [LINCCC] = 1.00) and WT‐1 (LINCCC = 1.00), substantial/good correlation for p53 (LINCCC = 0.96), p16 (LINCCC = 0.93), napsin‐A (LINCCC = 0.91) and ER (LINCCC = 0.77), and moderate correlation for PR (LINCCC = 0.54).

Conclusions

Immunohistochemical correlation between peritoneal fluid and surgical resection specimens for tubo‐ovarian neoplasms is high. Common subtypes of tubo‐ovarian carcinomas can be reliably distinguished on fluids using IHC.
Monoclonal antibody‐mediated immunosuppression enables long‐term survival of transplanted human neural stem cells in mouse brain
Authors: McGinley Lisa M. , Chen Kevin S. , Mason Shayna N. , Rigan Diana M. , Kwentus Jacquelin F. , Hayes John M. , Glass Emily D. , Reynolds Evan L. , Murphy Geoffrey G. , Feldman Eva L.
Published: September 2022

Background

As the field of stem cell therapy advances, it is important to develop reliable methods to overcome host immune responses in animal models. This ensures survival of transplanted human stem cell grafts and enables predictive efficacy testing. Immunosuppressive drugs derived from clinical protocols are frequently used but are often inconsistent and associated with toxic side effects. Here, using a molecular imaging approach, we show that immunosuppression targeting costimulatory molecules CD4 and CD40L enables robust survival of human xenografts in mouse brain, as compared to conventional tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil.

Methods

Human neural stem cells were modified to express green fluorescent protein and firefly luciferase. Cells were implanted in the fimbria fornix of the hippocampus and viability assessed by non‐invasive bioluminescent imaging. Cell survival was assessed using traditional pharmacologic immunosuppression as compared to monoclonal antibodies directed against CD4 and CD40L. This paradigm was also implemented in a transgenic Alzheimer's disease mouse model.

Results

Graft rejection occurs within 7 days in non‐immunosuppressed mice and within 14 days in mice on a traditional regimen. The addition of dual monoclonal antibody immunosuppression extends graft survival past 7 weeks (p< .001) on initial studies. We confirm dual monoclonal antibody treatment is superior to either antibody alone (p< .001). Finally, we demonstrate robust xenograft survival at multiple cell doses up to 6 months in both C57BL/6J mice and a transgenic Alzheimer's disease model (p< .001). The dual monoclonal antibody protocol demonstrated no significant adverse effects, as determined by complete blood counts and toxicity screen.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates an effective immunosuppression protocol for preclinical testing of stem cell therapies. A transition towards antibody‐based strategies may be advantageous by enabling stem cell survival in preclinical studies that could inform future clinical trials.
Genetic algorithm for the design of a multiband microstrip antenna with self‐avoiding geometry obtained by backtracking
Authors: Pérez‐Moroyoqui René , Rodríguez‐Romo Suemi , Ibáñez‐Orozco Oscar
Published: September 2022

The growth of small communication devices has pushed designers to design compact‐size antennas. These antennas must be low cost, lightweight, needed for mechanically robust construction, and ease of installation. In this paper, we use a novel genetic algorithm (GA) to produce an ensemble of compact self‐avoiding (SA) antennas such that the voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) is less than 2 at the desired frequencies (as a measure of efficiency); an optimization criterion to get a desirable multiband antenna in the ultra high frequency (UHF) band. First, the electromagnetic properties of these antennas are simulated using the method of moments in MATLAB. SA antennas form a particular set of dipoles introduced here by applying a novel backtracking algorithm. We also use a Lindenmayer system that generates the geometries by a Turtle graphics render to reach our goal. Next, we simulate the VSWR for 150,000 SA antennas with lengths from 0.1 to 0.4 m; 10 different frequencies are chosen randomly within the UHF band to obtain our results. All the VSWR   2 are clustered using density‐based spatial clustering of applications with noise algorithm (DBSCAN), so our method provides the frequency ranges where this condition is fulfilled. From this, we obtain the VSWR minimums used for the antenna design. Finally, as an instance, we use our results to select the appropriate size of a multiband antenna and, through genetic algorithms, modify the geometry to satisfy the design requirements.
Incobotulinum toxin A: A shelf‐stable, low‐molecular‐weight formulation
Authors: Eells Annica C. , Grunebaum Lisa D. , Howard Brittany E.
Published: September 2022

Since its development in 2005, incobotulinum toxin A (INCO) has become one of the most widely used neurotoxins worldwide for aesthetic and therapeutic indications. It was initially designed as a formulation free of complex proteins for reduced immunogenicity with an equal action and strength profile to the original and widespread onabotulinum toxin A (ONA). Multiple trials have demonstrated equivalent efficacy. Several studies have suggested a slight decrease in the time of visible treatment onset with INCO and a subsequent lack of difference in duration of effects when compared with ONA. Particularly appreciable with therapeutic doses, utilization of INCO led to significant cost savings over ONA or abobotulinum toxin A. Karschney et al. found that for the treatment of cervical dystonia and chronic migraine the cost to patients was reduced by 32.2% compared to ONA. Additionally, the ONA formulation allows for long‐term storage at room temperature along with an increased stability time once reconstituted. Limitations of INCO include a similar side effect profile to other neurotoxin formulations, more likely at therapeutic dosing. Indications approved by the Federal Drug Administration in the United States and other regulatory agencies are currently more limited than those of ONA, though this may be in direct relation to the length of time on the market. INCO has overall been demonstrated to be a safe, efficacious alternative to other common neurotoxin formulations.
Does fluctuating selection maintain variation in nest defense behavior in Arctic peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus tundrius)?
Authors: Gulotta Nick A. , Mathot Kimberley J.
Published: September 2022

Behavioral expression can vary both within‐ (i.e., plasticity) and among‐individuals (i.e., animal personality), and understanding the causes and consequences of variation at each of these levels is a major area of investigation in contemporary behavioral ecology. Here, we studied sources of variation in both plasticity and personality in nest defense behavior in Arctic peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus tundrius) in two consecutive years. We found that peregrines adjusted their nest defense in response to nesting stage and year, revealing plastic, state‐dependent, adjustment of nest defense. At the same time, nest defense behavior was repeatable in peregrine falcons both within and between years. We tested if fluctuating selection on behavioral types (i.e., individuals average phenotypic expression) and/or assortative mating acted to maintain long‐term among‐individual differences in nest defense behavior. We found that selection on female nest defense differed across years; being positive in 1 year and negative in the other. We also found support for assortative mating in the first year, but disassortative mating in the second. We propose two potential explanations for the observed year‐specific patterns of nonrandom mating: (1) year‐specific plastic adjustment of nest defense and/or (2) changes in the age‐structure of the breeding population. These posthoc explanations are speculative, and require further study. Unfortunately, we could not evaluate this directly with the available data, and future studies are needed with more than 2 years of data on nest‐defense and fitness outcomes, and with a larger number of marked individuals, to properly evaluate these potential explanations.
Exercise feature and predictor of prognosis in patients with pulmonary artery stenosis‐associated pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Li Xin , Duan Anqi , Jin Qi , Zhang Yi , Luo Qin , Zhao Qing , Yan Lu , Huang Zhihua , Hu Meixi , Xiong Changming , Zhao Zhihui , Liu Zhihong
Published: September 2022

Aims

The prognosis is poor for patients with pulmonary artery stenosis‐associated pulmonary hypertension (PAS‐PH). Identifying predictors of prognosis in PAS‐PH is crucial to preventing premature death, which has rarely been investigated. We aimed to explore the cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) parameters to predict the prognosis of these patients.

Methods

We prospectively included all patients with PAS‐PH who underwent CPET between September 2014 and June 2021 in Fuwai Hospital (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02061787). The primary outcome was clinical worsening, including death, rehospitalization for heart failure, or deterioration of PH.

Results

Seventy‐two patients were included in this study. A median of 2‐year follow‐up revealed that 18 (25%) patients experienced clinical worsening. The 1‐year, 3‐year, and 5‐year event‐free survival rates were 92.5%, 81.7%, and 62.7%, respectively. Patients with clinical worsening demonstrated significantly worse baseline haemodynamics and poorer exercise capacity than their counterparts. Multivariable Cox regression identified that peak O2 pulse could independently predict clinical worsening [hazard ratio: 0.344, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.188–0.631, P < 0.001], outperforming other parameters. Peak O2 pulse correlated with PH severity. Incorporating peak O2 pulse into the simplified 2015 European Society of Cardiology/European Respiratory Society risk stratification improved the accuracy for predicting clinical worsening (pre vs. post area under the curve: 0.727 vs. 0.846, P < 0.001; net reclassification index: 0.852, 95% CI 0.372–1.332, P < 0.001; integrated discrimination index 0.133, 95% CI 0.031–0.235, P = 0.011).

Conclusions

The prognosis is poor for PAS‐PH, and exercise intolerance and ventilation inefficiency are commonly observed. Peak O2 pulse independently predicted the prognosis of these patients. A low peak O2 pulse identified patients at high risk of clinical deterioration and served for risk stratification of PAS‐PH.
Redox Conversion of Cobalt(II)‐Diselenide to Cobalt(III)‐Selenolate Compounds: Comparison with Their Sulfur Analogs
Authors: Marvelous Christian , de Azevedo Santos Lucas , Siegler Maxime A. , Fonseca Guerra Célia , Bouwman Elisabeth
Published: September 2022

The synthesis of the selenium‐based ligand L1SeSeL1 (2,2’‐diselanediylbis(N,N‐bis(pyridin‐2‐ylmethyl)ethan‐1‐amine) is described along with its reactivity with cobalt(II) salts. The cobalt(II)‐diselenide complex [Co2(L1SeSeL1)Cl4] was obtained in good yield, and its spectroscopic properties closely resemble that of its sulfur analog. Reaction of L1SeSeL1 with Co(II) thiocyanate results in the formation of the cobalt(III) compound [Co(L1Se)(NCS)2], similar to reaction of L1SSL1. The redox‐conversion reactions from the Co(II)‐diselenide compound [Co(L1SeSeL1)Cl4] using external triggers such as removal of the halide ions or the addition of the strong‐field ligand 8‐quinolinolate resulted in good yields of the Co(III)‐selenolate complexes [Co(L1Se)(MeCN)2](SbF6)2 and [Co(L1Se)(quin)]Cl. Our computational studies show that the ligand‐field splitting energy of the selenium compounds is smaller than their sulfur analogs, indicating that redox‐conversion of cobalt(II)‐diselenide to cobalt(III)‐selenolate complexes may be more arduous than that for the related sulfur compounds.
Parameter identification of electrochemical model of vanadium redox battery by metaheuristic algorithms
Authors: Khaki Bahman , Kulkarni Chinmay , Das Pritam
Published: September 2022

An accurate pre‐setting of the constant coefficients and parameters of the electrochemical model of the battery is essential for the accuracy of the model. The experimental methods are not precisely determined these parameters. In vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFB), like other types of batteries, the electrochemical model's coefficients vary by each battery cell design, different kinds of membranes, etc. Moreover, a VRFB cell's electrochemical model is highly nonlinear; thus, excellent optimization approach is needed to figure out these coefficients' optimal value. Some metaheuristic optimizers, such as particle swarm optimizer (PSO), grey wolf optimizer (GWO), genetic algorithm (GA), and the hybrid PSOGWO algorithms, are used in this study to identify these coefficients. An optimization framework is characterized to recognize the coefficients of the model by minimizing the mean square error between the measured values and the model‐based terminal voltage. The low RMS error of the modeled terminal voltage by the metaheuristic‐based electrochemical model demonstrates the accuracy of the proposed parameter identification approach for VRFBs. Further, the improved electrochemical model using the optimal coefficients is employed to estimate VRFB internal parameters, for example, the available battery capacity, the state of health, and the state of charge more accurately.
Modeling Time-Dependent Aquatic Toxicity of Hydrocarbons: Role of Organism Weight, Temperature, and Substance Hydrophobicity
Authors: Redman Aaron D. , Parkerton Thomas F. , Letinski Daniel J. , Sutherland Cary A. , Butler Josh D. , Di Toro Dominic M.
Published: September 2022

Oil spill exposures are highly dynamic and are not comparable to laboratory exposures used in standard toxicity tests. Toxicokinetic–toxicodynamic (TKTD) models allow translation of effects observed in the laboratory to the field. To improve TKTD model calibration, new and previously published data from 148 tests were analyzed to estimate rates characterizing the time course of toxicity for 10 fish and 42 invertebrate species across 37 hydrocarbons. A key parameter in the TKTD model is the first-order rate that incorporates passive elimination, biotransformation, and damage repair processes. The results indicated that temperature (4–26 °C), organism size (0.0001–10 g), and substance log octanol–water partition coefficient (2–6) had limited influence on this parameter, which exhibited a 5th to 95th percentile range of 0.2–2.5 day−1 (median 0.7 day−1). A species sensitivity distribution approach is proposed to quantify the variability of this parameter across taxa, with further studies needed for aliphatic hydrocarbons and plant species. Study findings allow existing oil spill models to be refined to improve effect predictions. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:3070–3083. © 2022 ExxonMobil Biomedical Science Inc. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Uptake by Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Oct2 (slc22a2) Transporter Expressed in Xenopus laevis Oocytes
Authors: Chang Elisabeth D. , Owen Stewart F. , Hogstrand Christer , Bury Nic R.
Published: September 2022

Uptake of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) across the gill epithelium of fish is via either a passive or facilitated transport process, with the latter being more important at the lower concentrations more readily observed in the environment. The solute carrier (SLC) 22A family, which includes the organic cation transporter OCT2 (SLC22A2), has been shown in mammals to transport several endogenous chemicals and APIs. Zebrafish oct2 was expressed in Xenopus oocytes and the uptake of ranitidine, propranolol, and tetraethylammonium characterized. Uptake of ranitidine and propranolol was time- and concentration-dependent with a km and Vmax for ranitidine of 246 µM and 45 pmol/(oocyte × min) and for propranolol of 409 µM and 190 pmol/(oocyte × min), respectively. Uptake of tetraethylammonium (TEA) was inhibited by propranolol, amantadine, and cimetidine, known to be human OCT2 substrates, but not quinidine or ranitidine. At external media pH 7 and 8 propranolol uptake was 100-fold greater than at pH 6; pH did not affect ranitidine or TEA uptake. It is likely that cation uptake is driven by the electrochemical gradient across the oocyte. Uptake kinetics parameters, such as those derived in the present study, coupled with knowledge of transporter localization and abundance and API metabolism, can help derive pharmacokinetic models. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2993–2998. © 2022 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Acute Copper Toxicity Displays a Nonmonotonic Relationship with Age Across the Medaka (Oryzias latipes) Life Span
Authors: Mason Marilyn W. , Parrott Benjamin B.
Published: September 2022

The ability of an organism to cope with environmental stressors varies across the life span because of developmental stage–specific responses and age-related functional declines. In the present study, we examined the effect of age on acute copper toxicity in Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes). We first determined the median lethal concentration (LC50) at 96 h for embryos, 7-day-old fry, and 6-month-old medaka. Embryos were exposed to 0, 15, 30, 60, 125, 250, and 500 ppb CuSO4 through hatching. Fry were exposed to 0, 20, 50, 75, 100, 150, 250, and 500 ppb CuSO4 for 96 h. Adult fish were exposed to 0, 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 ppb CuSO4 for 96 h. The 96-h LC50 was 804 ppb for embryos, 262 ppb for embryonically exposed larvae, 60.3 ppb for 7-day-old fry, and 226 ppb for adults. We then challenged cohorts of fish aged 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, and 16 months with a 225-ppb CuSO4 exposure to determine the acute toxicity across the life span. The fish exhibited a bimodal tolerance to copper, with tolerance peaking in 2- and 3-month-old fish and again at 10 and 11 months of age. Our data demonstrate that copper sensitivity is dynamic throughout the medaka life span and may be influenced by trade-offs with reproduction. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2999–3006. © 2022 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Evaluating the integrated antimicrobial stewardship system of China by the assessment tool of WHO
Authors: Xiao Yonghong , Yu Wei , Xiao Tingting , Shen Ping
Published: September 2022

Objective

To fully understand the overall system and implementation of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) at different levels in China, an evaluation according to the integrated AMS evaluation tool developed by World Health Organization (WHO) was conducted.

Methods

A comprehensive search on the AMS relevant government policies, regulations, scientific research results, public and social activities was conducted, and the implementation of AMS strategies in national, subnational and hospital level were evaluated by the standards of the WHO.

Results

The results shew that the system construction, technical infrastructure and actions of AMS in China at the national level is relatively satisfied, but the AMS system needs to be further strengthened at the subnational and the medical institutional level, especially the integration of multidisciplinary teams and relevant departments; the implementation of professional intervention strategies, national education and publicity, professional education and training are relatively weak. AMS implementation is mainly promoted at the national level, and AMS in primary medical institutions is almost missing. It is necessary to carry out AMS at the provincial level and medical institutions as soon as possible. The focus is to establish a professional AMS team, prepare AMS guideline, implement AMS strategy, raise public awareness and ensure the long‐term and sustainable development of AMS in the country.

Conclusion

The Chinese government has established a system for AMS, and implemented a multisectoral coordinative mechanism. However, at the subnational and district levels, an AMS system and practice should be set up soon to promote the rational use of antibiotics.
Strategies of drugs cost containment in hospital: A systematic literature review
Authors: Koushki Mohammad‐Saleh , Goudarzi Reza , Amiresmaili Mohammadreza , Nekooei Moghaddam Mahmoud , Yazdi‐Feyzabadi Vahid , Talebian Ali
Published: September 2022

Background

In recent years, the world's health system faces with increasing trend of costs. In this regard, Hospital is one of the environments that consumes a large share of the total expenditure of the health system. Medications are one of the most expensive components in hospitals, which require appropriate measurements to control and reduce costs. The present systematic review was conducted to identify strategies and actions for cost containment in hospital.

Method

Using the PRISMA protocol, a systematic review of the texts was performed to identify strategies and actions for reducing drug cost. In this systematic review, the selected keywords were searched in the following databases: web of sciences, Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase. The inclusion criteria included English‐language articles, hospital‐level studies, and those studies performed on reducing and controlling hospital costs. The exclusion criteria also included the followings: primary health care studies, non‐English language studies, health system studies, and studies solely focussed on the cost‐effectiveness of a particular drug. The quality of these articles was investigated using the checklist adapted and modified in the present study.

Results

A total of 4696 articles were identified from the reviewed databases and 26 articles were identified from some other sources. After removing duplicate studies and reviewing the title, summary, and full text of articles using reference check and supplemental search, 21 articles were finally included. A number of strategies or managerial actions were extracted from the final articles. According to the qualitative results, qualitative meta‐synthesis was used and after eliminating duplicate solutions, the data were classified into five groups: procurement, storage, distribution, prescription, and use.

Conclusion

According to the increasing cost of medicines, some hospital managers now attempt to reduce hospital costs using drug chain management. Drug cost reduction strategies can be applied for any component of drug chain management such as procurement, storage, distribution, prescription, and use. Also, proper implementation of these strategies and rationalisation of drug use will result in more efficiency of the hospital.
A procurement‐based classification of pharmaceutical supplies for diabetes disease management
Authors: Abdulsalam Yousef , Alibrahim Abdullah , Alhuwail Dari , Behbehani Hashem
Published: September 2022

Background and Aims

Diabetes is among the most prevalent noncommunicable chronic diseases globally and carries a substantial expense in worldwide health care. Pharmaceutical supplies related to diabetes management account for 20%–40% of the disease's management cos, and this percentage continues to increase. This study examines the pharmaceutical expenses associated with one of the most common chronic diseases: diabetes. Specifically, we measure the extent to which patient health and demographic factors drive the annual cost of pharmaceutical supplies for diabetes management. Second, the study applied a procurement‐centric classification scheme to pharmaceutical items involved in diabetes treatment.

Methods

Data on 98,648 pharmaceutical‐dispensing transactions (related to 2828 patients) over 1 year were collected from a specialized diabetes health center. Pharmaceutical prices from the sample were compared internationally to ensure that the findings apply to other countries. The association between the item cost and the number of unique patients prescribed pharmaceutical products was estimated at the category and subcategory levels.

Results

Approximately 80% of total pharmaceutical expenditures were attributed to 20% of patients. Two of 20 pharmaceutical categories—anti‐diabetes drugs and insulin—accounted for 34% of products dispensed and 57% of total pharmaceutical expenditures. Age, body mass index, and diabetes type were essential factors in predicting supply cost per patient.

Conclusion

Applying the portfolio purchasing model also suggested that some clinically similar items, like insulin types, are best procured through divergent procurement strategies or vendors for optimal cost efficiency. A better understanding of the diverse array of diabetes supplies can reveal opportunities for better strategic supply management. This supply classification approach can also be applied in other supply‐intensive specialties, such as orthopedics.
Equity‐premium prediction: Attention is all you need
Authors: Lima Luiz Renato , Godeiro Lucas Lúcio
Published: September 2022

Predictions of stock returns are greatly improved relative to low‐dimensional forecasting regressions when the forecasts are based on the estimated factor of large data sets, also known as the diffusion index (DI) model. However, when applied to text data, DI models do not perform well. This paper shows that by simply using text data in a DI model does not improve equity‐premium forecasts over the naive historical‐average model, but substantial gains are obtained when one selects the most predictive words before computing the factors and allows the dictionary to be updated over time.
Trajectory surface hopping molecular dynamics on Chemiluminescence of cyclic peroxides
Authors: Yue Ling
Published: September 2022

Chemiluminescence (CL) of peroxides is one of the most highly sensitive and most useful analytical techniques. Although the mechanisms of CL were studied experimentally and theoretically in the past decades, the chemiexcitation that a ground‐state specie being excited from its electronic ground state to yield excited‐state products by a chemical reaction is still not completely understood. Direct dynamics simulation on CL reaction which takes into account the full complexity of the relevant potential energy surface characterizes nonadiabatic processes involved in chemiexcitation and could provide access not only to the available reaction channels but also to statistical quantities such as reaction times and quantum yields. In the last decade, the trajectory surface hopping (TSH) molecular dynamics (MD) which is one of the mixed quantum‐classical approaches is hence adopted to simulate the nonadiabatic process in CL of cyclic peroxides. In this article, the basic principle of TSH‐MD and the successful applications on the CL reactions were shortly review.
Isolation, morphological identification, and xylanase characteristics of anaerobic gut fungi Neocallimastix from Anatolian wild goat
Authors: Kar Bülent , Torcan Berat
Published: September 2022

This study shows the morphological identification of anaerobic fungal strains isolated from fecal samples of goats inhabiting Turkey and the effects of various metal ions and chemicals on extracellular xylanase production. Three different anaerobic gut fungi isolated from wild goats in Turkey were identified as Neocallimastix spp. xylanase, cellulase, and lichenase production were tested in culture supernatants, and the maximum‐specific activities were found as 560.42 ± 9.39, 159.70 ± 3.88, and 157.36 ± 3.83 (μmol/min/mg protein), respectively. While the optimum temperature range of exo‐xylanases was found as 40–50°C, their optimum pH range was determined as 6.0–6.5. Xylanase activity decreased in metal ions and other chemical reactants based on dose. The metal ion that significantly inhibited xylanase activity was Fe+3. It was found that the ferric ions inhibited xylanase activity in all three anaerobic gut fungi by 30%–90% depending on molarity. On the contrary, the 1 mM concentrations of the Mn+2, Ba+2, Co+2, Cu+2, Sn+2, and Mg+2 metal ions and the ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and β‐mercaptoethanol reagents had a positive effect at rates in the range of 3%–92%. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that anaerobic gut fungus has very stable fibrolytic enzymes that need to be separated, as well and the existence of a unique resource for industrial applications.
Laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy using the extrahepatic Glissonean approach: Technical tips for entering gaps
Authors: Cho Sung Chun , Kim Ji Hoon
Published: September 2022

There are two methods for selective inflow control from the liver hilum: individual hilar dissection and the Glissonean pedicle approach. The Glissonean pedicle approach has been increasingly used in laparoscopic anatomical liver resection. Recently, the extrahepatic Glissonean approach has been standardized due to the anatomical concept of Laennec's capsule. This article describes the technical details of entering gaps between the Laennec's capsule and Glissonean pedicle in laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy using the extrahepatic Glissonean approach. The key procedures of the laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy using the extrahepatic Glissonean approach included the following: (1) Dissection of left side of the hilar plate, (2) Dissection of ventral side of caudal end of the Arantius ligament, (3) Dissection and transection of left Glissonean pedicle. Our standardized technique is to create gap between the Laennec's capsule and Glissonean pedicle through appropriate traction and countertraction at the anatomical landmarks. Our procedure helps the surgeons to reproduce the extrahepatic Glissonean approach without parenchymal transection.
Unraveling the Co‐Crystallization–Charge Transport Relation in Conjugated Polymer Blends via Meniscus‐Assisted Solution‐Shearing
Authors: Zhao Qingqing , Zhu Shuyin , Peng Juan
Published: September 2022

The ability to craft the co‐crystallization in conjugated polymer blends represents an important endeavor for the enhancement of charge transport. However, simple and efficient approaches to co‐crystallization have yet to be realized. Herein, for the first time, a robust meniscus‐assisted solution‐shearing (MASS) strategy is reported to achieve co‐crystallization in the poly(2,5‐bis(3‐hexylthiophen‐2‐yl)thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene) (PBTTT‐C6) and poly(2,5‐bis(3‐decylthiophen‐2‐yl)thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene) (PBTTT‐C10) blended films, and correlate this co‐crystalline structure to the charge transport properties. The as‐cast PBTTT‐C6/PBTTT‐C10 blends exhibit co‐crystalline or phase‐separated structures influenced by their molecular weights. Interestingly, confined‐shearing of the initial phase‐separated blended solution to MASS produces the formation of their co‐crystallization. The co‐crystallization kinetics accompanied by the chain packing change and optical properties are scrutinized. Finally, the resulting organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) signify the cocrystal‐facilitated charge transport in the blends. Conceptually, this efficient MASS strategy in rendering the co‐crystallization in conjugated polymer blends can be readily extended to other conjugated polymer blends of interest for a variety of device applications.
Delusion Is No Illusion
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: September 2022

Recently, I was speaking with an employer about a new election petition they had received. Before the form email arrived from an nlrb.gov email address containing the petition and a variety of other legal documents, the president of the company had received an email from the union organizer. The tone of the email was friendly and confident. It invited the company to voluntarily recognize the union, because the majority of the employees already wanted the union. Consistent with the message, the email included a letter allegedly signed by a majority of the employees. The letter seemed to scream, “Here's the proof!” It is not the first time an employer has received such a letter—it is a decades‐old tactic. “We do not just claim to represent your employees, we have a letter from them showing it.” Of course, such letters are vulnerable to overreach by union organizers. On occasions, employees have not even been aware that the union had used their name on the letter.
Damage mechanisms and constitutive models for natural fiber‐based green composites: A review
Authors: Kumar M. , Tevatia A. , Dixit A.
Published: September 2022

Natural fibers are capable substitutes to conventional synthetic fibers, primarily because of their economic and environmental advantages, as well as they find widespread applications in textile, construction, and non‐load‐bearing applications in the case of automotive and aircraft industries. This paper presents a comprehensive review of natural fiber‐reinforced composites, focusing on their failure behavior, failure modelling techniques, and associated theories. Finite element modelling is widely applied in the damage modelling of natural fiber as well as natural fiber‐based green composites. Formation of representative volume elements in conjunction with homogenization emerges to be the common and most effective multi‐scale technique used for determining the effect of microstructures on the thermal and mechanical properties of the natural fiber‐reinforced composite. To provide a better understanding of the insight of damage aspects of natural fiber composites an up‐to‐date review catering to various aspects ranging from its manufacturing techniques, failure processes and mechanisms, finite element modelling techniques, and mechanical performance is very much required. This review aims to address the above‐stated issues, challenges, and details of achievements made with them.
Influence of laser and tungsten inert gas arc welding on magnetic properties of AISI M‐43, and M‐47 grade cold‐rolled non‐oriented electrical steel
Authors: Dharmik Bhushan Y. , Lautre N. Kumar
Published: September 2022

The magnetic properties and core losses of cold‐rolled non‐oriented electrical steel are influenced by gas tungsten arc, and laser welding. Investigations are carried out on the toroidal core sample welded on six sides around the outer periphery for estimating the variation in magnetic properties by increasing magnetic flux density and grain size. The percentage increase of power loss density in gas tungsten arc for M‐43 grade (M‐43‐TIG) and laser‐welded core samples for M‐43 grade (M‐43‐LB) were 24.7 % and 11.86 %, whereas 18.43 % (M‐47‐TIG), and 4.9 % (M‐47‐LB), respectively. A significant decrease in permeability of about 55.39 % and 53.57 % was experienced in M‐43‐TIG and M‐43‐LB, respectively. However, in M‐47 grade, the decrease was more for M‐47‐TIG (52.58 %) than the M‐47‐LB (39.52 %) welded sample when tested at 1.5 T. All the parameters investigated are compared with sticking, non‐welded core sample.
An experimental investigation on physical‐mechanical‐tribological performance of thermoplastic composites with partial sand replacements
Authors: Soni A. , Das P.K. , Yusuf M.
Published: September 2022

Growing population, industrialization, urbanization, etc. are the consequences of increasing plastic waste, which is deteriorating the environment's health. The study explores the potential of waste plastics as a value‐added material. The composite samples of floor tiles were developed using 50 wt. %, 60 wt. %, 70 wt. % and 100 wt. % of low‐density polyethylene and sand. The developed samples were evaluated for water absorption, compressive strength, flexural strength, sliding wear, and friction coefficient. The water absorption decreases gradually with replacements. The ranges for compressive and flexural strength were found to be 37.24×10−6 N/m2 to 46.20×10−6 N/m2 and 4.81×10−6 N/m2 to 6.24×10−6 N/m2 respectively having maximum values of 46.20×10−6 N/m2 and 6.24×10−6 N/m2 respectively, for 50 wt. % of low‐ density polyethylene. The incorporation of sand improves the wear performance at moderate to high loads. The friction coefficient depends on load and surface asperities. The structural analysis showed that the fillers are completely encapsulated and mechanically bonded into the matrix. The morphological analysis of the surfaces correlates the fracture mechanism with the properties of the composites.
Effects of parameters on friction stir welding process of AA 7075 aluminum alloy: mechanical and microstructural assessments
Authors: Ozan S. , Şahin S. , Kasman Ş.
Published: September 2022

The effect of tool rotation speed and welding speed on the microstructural and mechanical properties of AA 7075‐T651 welded plates produced using friction stir welding is the research subject of this study. A basin‐shaped stir zone characterized all friction stir welded joints’ microstructures. The fracture location following the tensile test was found to be outside the stir zone for each welded joint. All welded joints were subjected to a 90° root bending test. The tests were terminated before each welded joint could reach the 90° bend angle in the stir zone. The stir zone of each welded joint was characterized by the fine and equiaxed grains with the effect of dynamic recrystallization. In addition, intermetallic particles were also detected to occur in the weld joint. Among the nine welded joints, the welded joint with the highest ultimate tensile strength of 382 MPa was produced with a tool rotation speed of 400 min−1 and a welding speed of 80 mm min−1. The highest welding efficiency of 71 % was obtained with the welding process parameters of 400 min−1 tool rotational speed and 80 mm min−1 welding speed. Increasing tool rotation speed caused the grain size to be coarser.