bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and performance evaluation of polycarbonate/polyvinyl alcohol–titanium dioxide thin‐film nanocomposite membranes for water treatment
Authors: Samiei Arian , Khezraqa Homayun , Etemadi Habib , Shokri Elham
Published: September 2024

In recent years, there has been growing interest in using polymer nanocomposite membranes as a more advanced method for removing pollutants from water and treating wastewater for various purposes. In this study, thin‐film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes of polycarbonate/polyvinyl alcohol–titanium dioxide thin‐film (PC/PVA–TiO2) were fabricated by dip‐coating a PC substrate in a PVA/TiO2 solution. Various methods, including attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and water contact angle were utilized to assess the structural characteristics of the produced membranes. The PC/PVA thin‐film composite (TFC) and PC/PVA–TiO2 TFN membranes were then examined in a submerged membrane system to evaluate their effectiveness in filtering humic acid (HA) under various vacuum transmembrane pressure (0.3 and 0.6 bar) condition. The FTIR‐ATR results confirmed the formation of the active layer of PVA/TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs). It was observed that adding 1 wt.% of TiO2 NPs to the active layer of PVA/TiO2 significantly enhanced the water contact angle from 77.5° for PC support to 55.3° for PC/PVA–TiO2 (0.1) TFN membranes. Furthermore, the FE‐SEM results confirmed the formation of an active layer of PVA/TiO2 with a thickness of 237.87 nm. The pure water flux increased from 101.64 L/m2h for the PC/PVA TFC membrane to 144.02 L/m2h and 199.09 L/m2h for the PC/PVA–TiO2 (0.05) and PC/PVA–TiO2 (0.1) TFN membranes, respectively. Also, the results revealed that at lower transmembrane pressure, all membranes showed higher value in HA removal as compared to when higher transmembrane pressure was used.
Mixing screw design and high density polyethylene toughening modification for recycled polypropylene based on screw 3D printing
Authors: Zhang Yi , Bai Haiqing , Mi Dashan , Zhang Le , Jiang Jinghua , Yang Tao , Ren Zekang
Published: September 2024

The recycling of waste plastics primarily involves physical modification and the addition of modifiers, often utilizing equipment such as twin‐screw extruders for miscible modification. Considering the widespread use of single‐screw 3D printing, improving the mixing efficiency of the single‐screw is crucial to achieve a “one‐stop” recycling modification that is suitable for 3D printing. This paper introduces a 3D printer equipped with a mixing screw (MS) and compares it with a conventional screw (CS). We conduct numerical simulations to investigate the pressure build‐up capacity, velocity streamline distribution, and the mixing effect of the MS. The mechanical properties, thermal characteristics, and molecular orientation of the recycled Polypropylene (rPP) and high density polyethylene (HDPE) mixture are investigated through experiments. The results show that the MS provides more effective elongational flows compared to the CS by breaking down the reinforcing materials into smaller particles. Additionally, toughening and modification experiments are performed on rPP and HDPE. The composites treated with the MS showed improved elongation at break (increased by ~111%), a stable melt crystallization temperature, and an enhanced mixing effect. This study on single‐screw 3D printers lays the groundwork for streamlining the plastic recycling process and increasing the reuse rate of recycled plastics.
Synthesis of Rare Earth Metal Complexes Stabilized by Amine Bridged Bis(phenolato) Ligands and Their Performance in the Polymerization of rac‐β‐Butyrolactone
Authors: Shi Yize , Wang Yanwei , Yuan Dan , Yao Yingming
Published: September 2024

A series of rare earth alkoxides bearing amine‐bridged bis(phenolato) ligands were synthesized through sequential reactions of RE(C5H5)3(THF) (RE = Y, Lu) or Nd[N(SiMe3)2]3 with bis(phenols) LH2 and CF3CH2OH. Complexes REL(OCH2CF3)(THF)n (1–6) bearing different aryl‐substituents were obtained in good yields of 59–70 %. They were applied in the ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of rac‐β‐butyrolactone (rac‐BBL), which showed good activity (TOF up to 27,300 h−1), resulting in syndiotactically enriched poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) (Pr up to 0.86) with narrow polydispersities (PDI ≤ 1.27). The yttrium complex 3 bearing bulky o‐1,1‐diphenylethyl substituents outperformed other complexes, suggesting that the smaller ionic radii of metal centers and bulky ortho substituents of ancillary ligands play crucial roles in controlling the activity and stereoselectivity in ROP of rac‐BBL. Kinetics of the polymerization of rac‐BBL initiated by complex 3 was investigated, which revealed first order dependences on the monomer and initiator concentrations, respectively.
hsa_circ_0000129 targets miR‐383‐5p/tropomyosin 3 axis to facilitate ovarian cancer progression
Authors: Li Yuan , Liu Can
Published: September 2024

Ovarian cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies among women. CircRNAs play key roles in the progression of ovarian cancer. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of action of hsa_circ_0000129 and its effects on ovarian cancer. Expression of hsa_circ_0000129, tropomyosin 3 (TPM3), and miR‐383‐5p in ovarian cancer cell lines and tissue specimens was detected using qRT‐PCR or western blotting. Cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), colony formation, and transwell assays were performed to assess viability, proliferation, and migration of ovarian cancer cells. A xenograft model was used to study tumorigenicity of ovarian cancer cells in vivo. Luciferase and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were performed to determine binding between miR‐383‐5p and hsa_circ_0000129 or TPM3. Upregulation of hsa_circ_0000129 and TPM3 and downregulation of miR‐383‐5p were observed in ovarian cancer. Low hsa_circ_0000129 and TPM3 expression repressed viability, migration, and proliferation of ovarian cancer cells. Inhibition of miR‐383‐5p had a contrary effect. Furthermore, knockdown of hsa_circ_0000129 restricted the tumorigenicity of ovarian cancer cells. Mechanistically, hsa_circ_0000129 has a sponging effect on miR‐383‐5p, which targets TPM3. Hsa_circ_0000129 stimulated development of the malignant ovarian cancer phenotype by sponging miR‐383‐5p and releasing TPM3.
MV‐QUAL: A tool for understanding decisions to purchase virtual products in the metaverse
Authors: Cadet Fabienne , Gironda John T. , O'Leary Bay , Petrescu Maria
Published: September 2024

This paper develops the metaverse quality (MV‐Qual) scale and explores the various factors that may impact consumers' perceptions of quality and value when purchasing virtual products in a metaverse world. Utilizing Flow Theory and SERVQUAL as theoretical lenses to conduct our research, a framework was developed and tested, demonstrating how various factors are interconnected and impact consumers' shopping experiences in the metaverse. Data were collected from a national sample of 322 metaverse users in the United States and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling in SmartPLS, complemented by a neural network causal analysis in Neusrel. The results demonstrated that several factors impact metaverse store quality and perceived virtual product value, including control, vividness, avatar design, rarity, and resale value. Subsequently, metaverse store quality and perceived virtual product value positively impact the intention to purchase virtual products in metaverse. This research contributes to the advancement of understanding consumer behavior in the metaverse and adds to the emerging marketing literature on the metaverse. Furthermore, the MV‐QUAL scale developed serves as a practical tool that both marketing researchers and practitioners can use to enhance understanding and discover new ways to improve the metaverse consumer experience.
The anti‐consumption journey: Unplugging for improved well‐being
Authors: Anderson Kelley Cours , Wallach Karen Anne , Grimes Magdiel
Published: September 2024

Consumers are exploring ways to obtain control and limit their existing consumption levels in response to growing concerns about well‐being. This article introduces the anti‐consumption journey, which extends prior work on journey mapping, by evaluating the distinct journey when the goal is not to consume. Within the context of the “digital detox,” we use a hermeneutic approach to analyze qualitative data from blog posts by digital detox consumers, survey data from a digital detox retreat, and interviews with digital detox service providers. We highlight an emergent model of the facilitators and inhibitors consumers encounter throughout the anti‐consumption journey. This novel roadmap offers insights to further understand tensions between a consumer's subjective state of agency and culturally embedded assumptions of technology consumption. Theoretical and practitioner implications are discussed.
Sibling relationships: Considerations for family therapy
Authors: Walters Anne S.
Published: September 2024

Siblings are frequently overlooked as an essential focus in family‐based interventions with children. And yet, 80–85% of children worldwide have at least one sibling (Campion Barr & Killeron, 2015). Some have suggested that sibling relationships are a prototype for peer relationships in childhood and adulthood. This makes intuitive sense when one considers the arena within which siblings grow and mature together, with the dynamics involving strong attachments, cooperation, and rivalry and conflict. For instance, a positive sibling relationship can provide emotional support and a sense of security, while a negative relationship can lead to increased stress and anxiety.
Cardiogenic shock severity predicts bleeding events in patients with temporary mechanical circulatory support
Authors: Oyabu Kenjiro , Hattori Hidetoshi , Kikuchi Noriko , Haruki Shintaro , Minami Yuichiro , Ichihara Yuki , Saito Satoshi , Nunoda Shinichi , Niinami Hiroshi , Yamaguchi Junichi
Published: September 2024

Background

Data on shock severity and bleeding events in patients with temporary mechanical circulatory support (tMCS) are limited. We investigated the relationship between the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) shock stage classification and bleeding events in patients with tMCS.

Methods

We evaluated the data of 285 consecutive patients with tMCS who were admitted to our institution between June 2019 and May 2022. At the time of tMCS initiation, 81 patients (28.4%) were in SCAI stage A, 38 (13.3%) in stage B, 69 (24.2%) in stage C, 33 (11.6%) in stage D, and 64 (22.5%) in stage E. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to assess the association between the SCAI shock stage and in‐hospital bleeding events.

Results

In‐hospital bleeding occurred in 100 patients (35.1%). The bleeding event rate increased incrementally across the SCAI shock stages (stage A, 11.1%; stage B, 15.8%; stage C, 37.7%; stage D, 54.6%; stage E, 64.1%). In‐hospital bleeding was associated with the SCAI shock stage (p < 0.001). Compared with stage A, the adjusted odds ratios for in‐hospital bleeding were 1.48 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.47–4.66), 6.47 (95% CI 2.61–10.66), 11.59 (95% CI 3.77–35.64), and 7.85 (95% CI 2.51–24.55) for stages B, C, D, and E, respectively.

Conclusions

The SCAI shock stage predicted subsequent bleeding events in patients with tMCS. This simple scheme may be useful for tailored risk‐based clinical assessment and management of patients with tMCS.
Autofluorescence for the Visualization of Microorganisms in Biodeteriorated Materials in the Context of Cultural Heritage
Authors: Stratigaki Maria
Published: September 2024

Microorganisms, including fungi, bacteria, cyanobacteria, and algae, frequently colonize the surfaces of cultural heritage materials. These biological agents can cause biodeterioration through various mechanisms, resulting in aesthetic alteration, physical disruption, or compromise of mechanical integrity. To assess the presence and diversity of microorganisms, a combination of microscopy techniques is commonly used in conjunction with results from both culture‐dependent and culture‐independent methods. However, microbial populations are often underestimated. To address this issue, microorganisms can be detected by their intrinsic fluorescence, which can be observed via fluorescence microscopy. This approach facilitates the mapping of the spatial arrangement of microorganisms and the understanding of colonization patterns, thereby complementing established imaging techniques and providing insight into the interactions of microbial communities with the substrate. Given the limited research in this area, we examine the potential of microorganism autofluorescence as a molecular tool for investigating biodeterioration in artistic and architectural heritage, with a particular focus on paper and stone materials. Identifying and understanding the diverse microbiota that may be present is crucial for developing tailored and effective preventive measures and conservation treatments, as some of the species discovered may pose significant risks to both artifacts and human health.
First‐in‐Human Study to Assess the Safety, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics of BMS‐986308: A Renal Outer Medullary Potassium Channel Inhibitor
Authors: Soleman Sharif I. , Maya Juan , Levesque Paul , Mohammad Atif , Christopher Lisa , Schumacher Justin , Nanduri Aparna , Sivakumar Pitchumani , Kozinn Marc , Costet Philippe , Wang Chang , Richter Jeremy , Hawthorne Dara , Bui Anh , Rao Veena S. , Dickerson Daniel , Testani Jeffrey , Ramírez‐Valle Francisco , Baribaud Frédéric , Murthy Bindu , Merali Samira
Published: September 2024

In patients with heart failure (HF) who respond inadequately to loop diuretic therapy, BMS‐986308, an oral, selective, reversible renal outer medullary potassium channel (ROMK) inhibitor may represent an effective diuretic with a novel mechanism of action. We present data from the first‐in‐human study aimed to assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) following single ascending doses of BMS‐986308 in healthy adult participants. Forty healthy participants, aged from 20 to 55 years, and body mass index (BMI) from 19.8 to 31.6 kg/m2 were assigned to 1 of 5 dose cohorts (1, 3, 10, 30, and 100 mg) and randomized (6:2) to receive BMS‐986308 oral solution or matching placebo. Following administration, BMS‐986308 was rapidly absorbed with a median time to maximum concentration (Tmax) of 1.00 to 1.75 h and exhibiting a mean terminal half‐life (t1/2) of approximately 13 h. Dose proportionality was evident in BMS‐986308 area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC), while maximum concentration (Cmax) was slightly greater than dose‐proportional. We observed that urine output (or diuresis; mL) and urinary sodium excretion (or natriuresis; mmol) increased in a dose‐dependent manner, starting at a minimum pharmacologically active dose of 30 mg. The largest mean changes from baseline in diuresis and natriuresis occurred in both the 6‐ and −24 h post‐dose period following administration of 100 mg (1683.0 mL and 2055.3 mL, and 231.7 mmol and 213.7 mmol, respectively; ***P < 0.001). Overall, single‐dose BMS‐986308 was found to be safe, well‐tolerated, with an excellent PK profile, and substantial diuretic and natriuretic activity.
Development of a Facile and Green Synthesis Strategy for Brightly Fluorescent Carbon Dots from Various Waste Materials
Authors: Fernandes Sónia , Algarra Manuel , Gil Antonio , Esteves da Silva Joaquim , Pinto da Silva Luís
Published: September 2024

Carbon dots (CDs) are fluorescent carbon‐based nanomaterials with remarkable properties, making them more attractive than traditional fluorophores. Consequently, researchers focused on their development and application in fields such as sensing and bioimaging. One potential advantage of employing CDs is using organic waste as carbon precursors in their synthesis, providing a pathway for waste upcycling for a circular economy. However, waste‐based CDs often have low fluorescence quantum yields (QYFL), limiting their practical applications. So, there is a need for a well‐defined strategy to consistently produce waste‐based CDs with appreciable QYFL, irrespective of the starting waste material. Herein, we developed a fabrication strategy based on the hydrothermal treatment of waste materials, using citric acid as a co‐carbon precursor and ethylenediamine as N‐dopant. This strategy was tested with various materials, including corn stover, spent coffee grounds, cork powder, and sawdust. The results showed consistently appreciable QYFL, reaching up to ~40 %. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study demonstrated that producing these waste‐based CDs has lower environmental impacts compared to CDs made solely from commercial reagents. Thus, we have established a framework for the environmentally friendly production of CDs by upcycling different waste materials without significant sacrifices in performance (QYFL).
Privacy‐preserving collaboration in blockchain‐enabled IoT: The synergy of modified homomorphic encryption and federated learning
Authors: Anitha Raja , Murugan Mahalingam
Published: September 2024

The proliferation of network devices capable of gathering, transmitting, and receiving data over the Internet has spurred the widespread adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, particularly in resource‐oriented applications. Integrating blockchain, IoT, homomorphic encryption, and federated learning requires a balance between computational requirements and real‐time performance. Secure key management is crucial to maintain data privacy and integrity. Compliance with privacy regulations requires careful implementation of privacy‐preserving mechanisms in blockchain‐enabled IoT environments, which can be subjected to various attacks. Addressing these challenges requires interdisciplinary expertise, research, and innovation to develop more efficient and effective privacy‐preserving techniques tailored to the unique characteristics of such environments. This research introduces the Modified Homomorphic Encryption Federated‐based Adaptive Hybrid Dandelion Search (MHEF‐AHDS) algorithm as an effective framework to enhance security in blockchain‐enabled IoT systems. The amalgamation of Modified Homomorphic Encryption (MHE) and Federated Learning (FL) constitutes a potent alliance that addresses privacy concerns within collaborative and decentralized machine learning environments. This facilitates secure and adaptable data collaboration, effectively mitigating privacy risks associated with sensitive information. The integration of quantum machine learning into security applications presents an exciting opportunity for distinctive progress and innovation. Within this work, the Adaptive Hybrid Dandelion optimization algorithm, featuring an Initial search strategy, is employed for hyperparameter optimization thereby elevating the performances of the proposed MHEF‐AHDS method. Furthermore, the integration of smart contracts and Blockchain‐based IoT enhances the overall security of the proposed method. MHEF‐AHDS comprehensively tackles privacy, security, and scalability challenges through robust security measures and privacy enhancements. The performance evaluation of the MHEF‐AHDS method encompasses a thorough analysis based on key metrics such as throughput, latency, scalability, energy consumption, accuracy, precision, recall, and f1‐score. Comparative assessments against existing methods are conducted to gauge the effectiveness of the proposed method in addressing security, privacy, and scalability concerns.
Scale‐dependent population drivers inform avian management in a declining saline lake ecosystem
Authors: Van Tatenhove Aimee M. , Neill John , Norvell Russell E. , Stuber Erica F. , Rushing Clark S.
Published: September 2024

Shrinking saline lakes provide irreplaceable habitat for waterbird species globally. Disentangling the effects of wetland habitat loss from other drivers of waterbird population dynamics is critical for protecting these species in the face of unprecedented changes to saline lake ecosystems, ideally through decision‐making frameworks that identify effective management options and their potential outcomes. Here, we develop a framework to assess the effects of hypothesized population drivers and identify potential future outcomes of plausible management scenarios on a saline lake‐reliant waterbird species. We use 36 years of monitoring data to quantify the effects of environmental conditions on the population size of a regionally important breeding colony of American white pelicans (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) at Great Salt Lake, Utah, US, then forecast colony abundance under various management scenarios. We found that low lake levels, which allow terrestrial predators access to the colony, are probable drivers of recent colony declines. Without local management efforts, we predicted colony abundance could likely decline approximately 37.3% by 2040, although recent colony observations suggest population declines may be more extreme than predicted. Results from our population projection scenarios suggested that proactive approaches to preventing predator colony access and reversing saline lake declines are crucial for the persistence of the Great Salt Lake pelican colony. Increasing wetland habitat and preventing predator access to the colony together provided the most effective protection, increasing abundance 145.4% above projections where no management actions are taken, according to our population projection scenarios. Given the importance of water levels to the persistence of island‐nesting colonial species, proactive approaches to reversing saline lake declines could likely benefit pelicans as well as other avian species reliant on these unique ecosystems.
Parental Binge Eating and Child Binge Eating and Weight‐Control Behaviors: Cross‐Sectional and Longitudinal Findings From the EAT 2010–2018 Study
Authors: Lydecker Janet A. , Zhang Zhijun , Larson Nicole , Loth Katie A. , Wall Melanie , Neumark‐Sztainer Dianne
Published: September 2024

Objective

In cross‐sectional and retrospective research, parental binge eating is associated with their children's eating psychopathology. The current study extended the evidence by cross‐sectionally and longitudinally examining the relation between parental binge eating and binge eating and weight‐control behaviors in the next generation of their adolescent children and young adult children in a population‐based sample.

Methods

Adolescents (Time 1: M = 14.5, SD = 2.0 years) (n = 2367), followed into adulthood (Time 2: M = 22.1, SD = 2.0 years), and their parents (n = 3664) were enrolled in EAT 2010–2018 and Project F‐EAT 2010. The current study examined parental binge eating, and child binge eating and weight‐control behaviors. Adjusted models covaried for child gender, age, and race/ethnicity.

Results

Approximately 7% of adolescents at Time 1 had at least one parent who reported binge eating with no differences by child's age, gender, or race/ethnicity. Having at least one parent experiencing binge eating at Time 1 (vs. not) was associated cross‐sectionally with adolescent children's use of extreme weight‐control behaviors (9.6% vs. 4.8%; Risk Difference [RD] = 4.9%) and associated longitudinally with binge eating during young adulthood (21.1% vs. 11.6%; RD = 9.5%). Other associations did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

Children of parents with binge eating appear to have elevated risk of extreme weight‐control behaviors during adolescence and binge eating in young adulthood. Clinicians should assess whether eating psychopathology extends to other family members, and offer additional support to parents with binge eating. Further research is needed to identify risk factors in the children of parents with binge eating and to assess strategies for prevention.
Potential drivers and implications of a balanced breeding sex ratio in a small population of an imperiled species with environmental sex determination
Authors: Silver‐Gorges Ian , Shamblin Brian M. , Ashford Mason , Bower Paityn , Fuentes Mariana M. P. B.
Published: September 2024

Small populations of imperiled species are susceptible to the negative consequences of skewed sex‐ratios. In imperiled species with environmental sex determination such as sea turtles, examining sex ratios across a range of environments and population abundance levels can provide insight into factors that influence population resilience, which can then be the foci of management plans for these species. Breeding sex ratios (the ratio of actively breeding males to females during a reproductive season; BSRs) extrapolated from genetic parentage analyses are a common approach for enumerating sex ratios in sea turtles. Such analyses also allow for the characterization of multiple paternity within sea turtle clutches, which should reflect BSRs and breeding behaviors. We characterized the first BSR for a breeding assemblage of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) belonging to the temperate, low‐abundance Northern Gulf of Mexico Recovery Unit using genotypes of 16 microsatellite loci from nesting females and hatchlings. Unlike prior studies at both more‐tropical and more‐temperate, and higher‐abundance, Recovery Units in this region, we found a balanced BSR of 1.3:1 males:female and a low incidence (~17%) of multiple paternity. This suggests that there are relatively few males breeding at this assemblage and within this Recovery Unit. Beaches in this region are expected to produce substantial numbers of male hatchlings based on sand temperature data. The relative dearth of mature males may then be due to hydrologic disturbances that disproportionately affect the fitness and survival of male hatchlings, or due to demographic stochasticity. More work is needed to study the factors that might influence male hatchling production and fitness in this region, particularly as climate change is predicted to lead to feminization in global sea turtle populations. Our work demonstrates the broad utility of characterizing BSRs and other sex ratios across a range of populations in imperiled, environmentally sensitive species.
Analysis and evaluation of the usefulness of open data for research projects—The case of the BrineRIS project
Authors: Górniak‐Zimroz Justyna , Worsa‐Kozak Magdalena , Szostak Karolina
Published: September 2024

Open research data refer to publicly available scientific information that can be accessed free of charge, usually provided by public data sources. Users must comply with specific requirements set by the institutions providing the data and always acknowledge the source of the data when processing, transmitting, storing or publishing it. One of the tasks of the BrineRIS project is the mapping of brine resources, requiring reliable data on the location of exploration facilities, environmental characteristics, brine exploitation parameters and formal and legal information. These data come from a review of various archives, databases and survey results. Initially, information on the location of the sources should be obtained, which may be available in publicly accessible databases. Next, geological and hydrogeological parameters, which can be obtained from scientific papers and reports, are useful. An important part of the project is also the analysis of legal regulations concerning water extraction and environmental protection. Therefore, data should be obtained from various sources, such as public administration, state institutions or research units. These will serve to develop the database needed to perform further analyses within the BrineRIS research project. It is therefore crucial to carefully collect, analyse and assess the usefulness of the data.
Improving safety in complex systems: A review of integration of functional resonance analysis method with semi‐quantitative and quantitative approaches
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Upadhyay Rahul , Samanta Biswajit , Bhattacherjee Ashis
Published: September 2024

Functional resonance analysis method (FRAM) is extensively employed in analyzing and managing performance variabilities. Additionally, semi‐quantitative and quantitative methods have been increasingly integrated with the FRAM to analyze complex socio‐technical systems to improve safety levels. This review article presents a comprehensive and updated survey of current literature focused on semi‐quantitative and quantitative methods employed for quantifying performance variabilities and exploring aggregation/propagation rules. A total of 1659 studies published between 2012 and March 2024 from various scientific databases were systematically examined using preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta‐analysis, identifying 29 studies that met inclusion criteria. The identified studies were categorized into four groups based on the quantitative methods employed: Monte Carlo simulation, fuzzy logic, cognitive reliability and error analysis method, and miscellaneous approaches. While different methodologies had unique strengths, they commonly relied on expert judgment for data collection, whether for defining probability distributions in Monte Carlo simulations, membership functions, and fuzzy rule bases in fuzzy inference systems, or selecting common performance conditions, determining their interrelationships, and assigning scores. Addressing bias from expert judgment in assessing performance variabilities can be achieved by using suitable experts' opinions integration techniques, and leading safety indicators in the analysis.
Effect of fluid flow behavior on sustainability and exergy efficiency of solar heat collectors having multiple V‐ribs with gaps
Authors: Maithani Rajesh , Kumar Anil , Sharma Sachin , Alam Tabish
Published: September 2024

In the current numerical study, the viability and sustainability of a solar heat collector (SHC) have been rigorously analyzed through the lens of exergy analysis. The SHC with roughness in the form of symmetrical V‐rib gaps has been selected for detailed numerical investigation. The study focuses on deriving the dominant parameters affecting the performance of the SHC, including the relative gap width (), number of gaps () in the limbs of ribs, and fluid flow Reynolds number, which varied from 4000 to 18,000. The absorber plate with roughness was thoroughly examined to evaluate the losses and irreversibility that persist in the thermal system. The results of the numerical analysis revealed the maximum exergy efficiency to be 3.87%. Furthermore, the study examined the long‐term feasibility of the system, evaluating its sustainability index at a remarkable 1.0319 value, while the magnitude of the waste–energy ratio fetched an impressive score of 0.991. Additionally, the study found that the system has a significant improvement potential of 10.04. Overall, these findings provide critical insights into the performance and sustainability of SHCs, paving the way for future research and development in this crucial field.
Numerical and experimental investigations of thermohydraulic performance enhancement of triangular duct solar air heaters using circular wing vortex generators
Authors: Pramod G. K. , Madhwesh N. , Arunachala U. C. , Manjunath M. S.
Published: September 2024

This study presents the thermohydraulic performance enhancement in a triangular duct solar air heater (TSAH) using circular wing vortex generators (CWVGs) on the absorber plate using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methodology for the Reynolds number (Re) range of 6000–21,000. The use of wing vortex generators offers relatively lower interference with the core flow region, while the circular geometry offers a smooth curved edge, which reduces multiple vortex interactions in the wake region, thereby limiting the pressure drop. This study explores the impact of flow attack angle, longitudinal pitch, transverse pitch, and diameter of CWVG on the thermohydraulic performance of TSAH. The results reveal that a lower flow attack angle exhibits enhanced heat transfer with a lower friction factor penalty. The nondimensional diameter greater than d/Dh = 0.325 tends to limit heat transfer and exhibits an increased friction factor. The transverse pitch parameter also exhibits a similar trend where the threshold nondimensional pitch is found to be 1.5. The highest improvement in Nu is 4.37 times that of smooth duct for d/Dh = 0.433, Pl/d = 1, Pt/d = 1.5 and α = 20° at Re = 6000. The highest rise in friction factor is about 10.23 times that of smooth duct for d/Dh = 0.433, Pl/d = 1.0, Pt/d = 1.5, and α = 20° at Re = 21,000. The highest thermohydraulic performance parameter (THPP) value is about 2.23 at Re = 6000, with THPP values ranging from 1.69 to 2.23 across different CWVG configurations. Finally, mathematical correlations are developed for Nu and friction factors which are in close agreement with CFD results, with deviations averaging 5.03% and 3.69%, respectively.
Use of menopausal hormone therapy before and after diagnosis and ovarian cancer survival—A prospective cohort study in Australia
Authors: Na Renhua , Jordan Susan J. , DeFazio Anna , Williams Merran , Livingstone Karen , Obermair Andreas , Friedlander Michael , Grant Peter , Webb Penelope M. ,   for the OPAL Study Group
Published: September 2024

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) use before ovarian cancer diagnosis has been associated with improved survival but whether the association varies by type and duration of use is inconclusive; data on MHT use after treatment, particularly the effect on health‐related quality of life (HRQOL), are scarce. We investigated survival in women with ovarian cancer according to MHT use before and after diagnosis, and post‐treatment MHT use and its association with HRQOL in a prospective nationwide cohort in Australia. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) and propensity scores to reduce confounding by indication. Among 690 women who were peri‐/postmenopausal at diagnosis, pre‐diagnosis MHT use was associated with a significant 26% improvement in ovarian cancer‐specific survival; with a slightly stronger association for high‐grade serous carcinoma (HGSC, HR = 0.69, 95%CI 0.54–0.87). The associations did not differ by recency or duration of use. Among women with HGSC who were pre‐/perimenopausal or aged ≤55 years at diagnosis (n = 259), MHT use after treatment was not associated with a difference in survival (HR = 1.04, 95%CI 0.48–2.22). Compared to non‐users, women who started MHT after treatment reported poorer overall HRQOL before starting MHT and this difference was still seen 1–3 months after starting MHT. In conclusion, pre‐diagnosis MHT use was associated with improved survival, particularly in HGSC. Among women ≤55 years, use of MHT following treatment was not associated with poorer survival for HGSC. Further large‐scale studies are needed to understand menopause‐specific HRQOL issues in ovarian cancer.
Humoral immune response as an indicator for protection against Covid‐19 after anti‐SARS‐COV2‐booster vaccination in hematological and oncological patients
Authors: Mainka Dieter , Bauer Nathalie , Dietze Lutz , Lehnert Sonja , Krandick Johanna , Himmelreich Daniel , Jomaa Hassan , Zimmermann Maximilian , Borchmann Peter , Herbrandt Swetlana , Rothe Achim
Published: September 2024

Cancer patients are at a higher risk to develop severe COVID‐19 symptoms after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection compared to the general population and regularly show an impaired immune response to SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination. In our oncological center, 357 patients with hematological and oncological diseases were monitored for neutralizing antibodies from October 2021 over 12 months. All patients had received three anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccinations with an mRNA—(Comirnaty/BionTech or Spikevax/Moderna) or a vector vaccine (Vakzevria/AstraZeneca or JCOVDEN/Johnson&Johnson). Neutralizing anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG antibodies in the patients' sera were detected within 3 months before, 3–10 weeks and 5–7 months after the booster vaccination (third vaccination). 112 patients developed a breakthrough SARS‐CoV‐2 infection during the observation period. High anti‐SARS‐Cov‐2 antibody levels before infection significantly protected against symptomatic Covid‐19 disease (p = .003). The median antibody titer in patients with asymptomatic Covid‐19 disease was 2080 BAU/ml (binding antibody units per Milliliter) and 765 BAU/ml in symptomatic patients. 98% of the solid tumor patients reached seroconversion after the booster vaccination in comparison to 79% of the hematological patients. High antibody titers of >2080 BAU/ml after the booster vaccination were detected in 61% of the oncological and 34.8% of the hematological patients. 7–10 months after the booster vaccination, the anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody titer declined to an average of 849 BAU/ml. Considering the heterogenous humoral immune response of cancer patients observed in this study, an individual vaccination strategy based on regular measurement of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody levels should be considered in contrast to fixed vaccination intervals.
A case report of troubleshooting against bleeding from inferior vena cava injury
Authors: Shibuya Tadamasa , Inoue Toru , Ando Tadasuke , Shin Toshitaka
Published: September 2024

Introduction

We report a case of troubleshooting against bleeding from an inferior vena cava injury using a gelatin–thrombin matrix.

Case presentation

A 58‐year‐old man underwent robot‐assisted partial adrenalectomy for a right adrenal adenoma causing subclinical Cushing's syndrome. During the surgery, while dissecting between the adrenal gland and the inferior vena cava, bleeding occurred secondary to an inferior vena cava injury. Despite attempts at hemostasis, applying a human fibrinogen–thrombin patch and suturing were both difficult because of poor vision secondary to the bleeding. Hemostasis was ultimately achieved using a gelatin–thrombin matrix, which was accurately placed on the bleeding point using gauze. Open conversion was hence avoided, allowing the completion of the surgery as planned.

Conclusion

Gelatin–thrombin matrix may be effective for managing relatively small inferior vena cava injuries.
BODIPY‐based iridium and ruthenium complexes: Synthesis, photophysical, and photochemical properties
Authors: Cabir Beyza , Cetindere Seda
Published: September 2024

The design, synthesis, and characterization of novel BODPY‐based iridium and ruthenium complexes were reported. The structures of new compounds were fully characterized by FT‐IR, MALDI‐TOF mass analysis, elemental analysis, 1H, and 19F NMR spectroscopies. Precursor BODIPY was characterized by single‐crystal x‐ray diffraction technique for the first time. Photophysical properties including absorption and emission profiles and lifetimes were investigated via UV–vis absorption and emission spectroscopy. Photochemical properties were investigated via direct method, and the singlet oxygen production capabilities of new complexes were determined by NIR phosphorescence methods. BODIPY‐based new complexes were efficient at producing 1O2. Besides, both complexes showed more remarkable photosensitization ability than some commonly used photosensitizer based on BODIPY derivatives. This study points out that novel complexes are effective 1O2 photosensitizers that might be used for different application areas like photodynamic therapy.
Comparative efficacy of aspirin versus direct oral anticoagulants for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis following primary total hip arthroplasty or total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Syed Fauzaan Ali , Amin Hamzah , Benjamin Biju , Hendrix Michiel , Savaridas Terence
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Venous thromboembolisms (VTEs), including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolisms (PE), are common after total knee (TKA) and hip arthroplasty (THA). Recent studies suggest that aspirin effectively prevents VTE following major orthopaedic surgery. This meta‐analysis compares randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating aspirin versus direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for VTE prevention after primary THA and TKA.

Methods

We included RCTs from 2017 to 2023 that looked at aspirin versus DOACs for VTE prophylaxis in primary THA and TKA. A search strategy was conducted which used Boolean operators and MESH terms. Primary outcomes included VTE rates, symptomatic, asymptomatic DVT and PE. Secondary outcomes were mortality and bleeding complications. Statistical analysis was performed using REVMAN software. An odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was generated for the pooled studies. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 variable, and publication bias was evaluated with a funnel plot.

Results

Seven RCTs with 3967 patients were included for analysis. Rivaroxaban 10 mg OD was compared to varying doses of aspirin (81–300 mg). There were no significant differences between the groups in the incidence of VTE (OR: 1.21, 95% CI: 0.72–2.01), PE (OR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.39–2.61), asymptomatic DVT (OR: 1.39, 95% CI: 0.64–3.00), suspected DVT (OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 0.49–2.61) and major bleeding (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.55–1.27).

Discussion

Aspirin is as effective as rivaroxaban for primary thromboprophylaxis post‐THA and TKA, without increased incidence of complications. Further research is needed to determine the optimal dosing regimen of aspirin and its long‐term efficacy in preventing VTE.

Level of Evidence

Level I.
An aptamer‐guided fluorescence polarisation platform for extracellular vesicle liquid biopsy
Authors: Pham Cuong Viet , Chowdhury Rocky , Patel Shweta , Jaysawal Satendra Kumar , Hou Yingchu , Xu Huo , Jia Lee , Zhang Yu‐mei , Wang Xiaowei , Duan Wei , Xiang Dongxi
Published: September 2024

The translation of discoveries on extracellular vesicle (EV) based cancer biomarkers to personalised precision oncology requires the development of robust, sensitive and specific assays that are amenable to adoption in the clinical laboratory. Whilst a variety of elegant approaches for EV liquid biopsy have been developed, most of them remain as research prototypes due to the requirement of a high level of microfabrication and/or sophisticated instruments. Hence, this study is set to develop a simple DNA aptamer‐enabled and fluorescence polarisation‐based homogenous assay that eliminates the need to separate unbound detection ligands from the bound species for EV detection. High specificity is achieved by immobilising EVs with one set of antibodies and subsequently detecting them with a DNA aptamer targeting a distinct EV biomarker. This two‐pronged strategy ensures the removal of most, if not all, non‐EV substances in the input biofluids, including soluble proteins, protein aggregates or non‐vesicular particles, prior to quantifying biomarker‐positive EVs. A limit of detection of 5.0 × 106 EVs/mL was achieved with a linear quantification range of 5.0 × 108 to 2.0 × 1010 EVs/mL. Facilitated by a multiple parametric analysis strategy, this aptamer‐guided fluorescence polarisation assay was capable of distinguishing EVs from three different types of solid cancer cells based on quantitative differences in the levels of the same sets of biomarkers on EVs. Given the simplicity of the method and its ease of implementation in automated clinical biochemistry analysers, this assay could be exploited for future EV‐based continuous and real‐time monitoring of the emergence of new macro‐ or micro‐metastasis, cancer progression as well as the response to treatment throughout different stages of cancer management in the clinic.
Clinical guideline highlight for the hospitalist: Diagnosis and management of acute bacterial arthritis in children
Authors: Palmer Brandon , Cummings Austin , Hahn Danita
Published: September 2024

GUIDELINE TITLE: Clinical Practice Guideline by the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society (PIDS) and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA): 2023 Guideline on Diagnosis and Management of Acute Bacterial Arthritis

RELEASE DATE: January 1, 2024

PRIOR VERSION(S): n/a

DEVELOPER: Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society (PIDS), Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA)

FUNDING SOURCE: PIDS and IDSA

TARGET POPULATION: Children with suspected or confirmed acute bacterial arthritis
Mixed motives behind migrants' remittance‐sending practices: Evidence from China
Authors: Xu Licheng
Published: September 2024

An abundant collection of literature investigates why migrants remit. Migrants' remittance‐sending practices can be driven by either altruism or the insurance motive. In this study, I first develop a stylized theoretical framework that generates testable predictions regarding the two frequently discussed motives. Then, using a panel data set pooled from three waves of the China Laborforce Dynamic Survey (2012–2016), I find empirical evidence for migrants' remittance‐sending practices under mixed motives that incorporate both altruism and insurance. Findings presented in this study are of great significance in understanding family ties and the risk sharing mechanism between rural‐to‐urban migrants and households of origin.
Long‐term assessment of macro‐ and micronutrients in foliage of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) in thinned versus unmanaged old‐growth stands
Authors: Borys Alexander , Wieczorek Barbara , Nicke Anka , Walstab Jutta
Published: September 2024

Background

Science‐based decisions regarding forest management require the knowledge of the impact of thinning regimens on the forests’ vitality and resilience. There is no systematic study analysing the role of forest management approaches on the nutritional status of forests, serving as a surrogate for their health and growth.

Aims

We assessed the impact of ‘heavy thinning from above’ versus ‘no management’ on the foliar chemistry of old‐growth European beech stands on a calcareous site with cambisol/chromic luvisol soil in Thuringia, Germany.

Methods

Macro‐ and micronutrients were analysed by serial foliar analysis of six trees per experimental plot over 13 years (2009–2021). To assess potential differences of foliar chemistry between the two plots and over time, a linear mixed‐effects model was applied.

Results

Foliar concentrations of all macro‐ and micronutrients were not significantly different between the two plots (p > 0.05), demonstrating that the management approach had no relevant impact on the nutritional status of beech trees growing at the calcareous site. Furthermore, all foliar concentrations were dynamic over the 13‐year evaluation period. Hence, long‐term forest monitoring is crucial to capture the complex interplay between the trees and environmental conditions.

Conclusions

Serial foliar analysis allows for a reliable evaluation of a forest's nutritional status. The results indicate that either regimen, that is, ‘heavy thinning from above’ or ‘no management’, shall not pose any risk in terms of growth and stability. Our results add to the understanding of beech forest dynamics and may provide a further piece for science‐based strategies of sustainable forest management.