bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolomics analysis in saliva from periodontally healthy, gingivitis and periodontitis patients
Authors: Alamri Meaad M. , Williams Benjamin , Le Guennec Adrien , Mainas Giuseppe , Santamaria Pasquale , Moyes David L. , Nibali Luigi
Published: October 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate metabolomics markers in the saliva of patients with periodontal health, gingivitis and periodontitis.

Background

The use of metabolomics for diagnosing and monitoring periodontitis is promising. Although several metabolites have been reported to be altered by inflammation, few studies have examined metabolomics in saliva collected from patients with different periodontal phenotypes.

Methods

Saliva samples collected from a total of 63 patients were analysed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) followed by ELISA for interleukin (IL)‐1β. The patient sample, well‐characterised clinically, included periodontal health (n = 8), gingivitis (n = 19) and periodontitis (n = 36) cases, all non‐smokers and not diabetic.

Results

Periodontal diagnosis (healthy/gingivitis/periodontitis) was not associated with any salivary metabolites in this exploratory study. Periodontal staging showed nominal associations with acetoin (p = .030) and citrulline (p = .047). Among other investigated variables, the use of systemic antibiotics in the previous 3 months was associated with higher values of the amino acids taurine, glycine and ornithine (p = .002, p = .05 and p = .005, respectively, at linear regression adjusted for age, gender, ethnicity, body mass index and staging).

Conclusion

While periodontal staging was marginally associated with some salivary metabolites, other factors such as systemic antibiotic use may have a much more profound effect on the microbial metabolites in saliva. Metabolomics in periodontal disease is still an underresearched area that requires further observational studies on large cohorts of patients, aiming to obtain data to be used for clinical translation.
Sleep disruption in adolescent inpatients: prevalence, associations with clinical outcomes, and clinician perspectives
Authors: Johnsen Laura , Bird Jessica C. , Salkovskis Paul , James Anthony C. , Stratford Hannah J. , Sheaves Bryony
Published: October 2023

Sleep problems are common for adolescents with psychiatric disorders, and sleep treatment may aid mental health recovery. Inpatient admissions are likely a particularly challenging time for sleep. Despite this little is known about the nature of sleep problems, and how sleep treatments could be optimised for this setting. This mixed‐methods study set out to better understand sleep disturbances in adolescent inpatients. Study 1 examined the prevalence of Sleep Condition Indicator‐assessed insomnia at admission and associations with psychiatric symptoms and admission length in 100 inpatients (aged 11–17 years) on one unit in Oxford. Data were gathered from admission routine measures and medical records. Associations were analysed using linear regressions. Half of the inpatients (n = 50) screened positive for insomnia at admission. Moderate–large significant associations were observed between more severe insomnia and more severe depression (β = −0.56), anxiety (β = −0.51), self‐harm (β = −0.49), psychotic experiences (β = −0.32), and conduct problems (β = −0.30), but not admission length. Study 2 gained 12 clinicians’ perspectives on sleep problems on the unit via a focus group and semi‐structured interviews, analysed using thematic analysis. Ward staff observed insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness in adolescent inpatients and a reciprocal relationship with mental health symptoms. Ward processes were barriers (e.g., night‐time observations) and facilitators (e.g., regular routines) of sleep. Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia was not routinely offered but viewed as potentially helpful. Insomnia may be a common problem for adolescent inpatients, associated with greater psychopathology, but not admission length. The possible benefits of psychological sleep interventions for adolescents admitted to psychiatric units now require testing.
The elimination of hepatitis D as a public health problem: Needs and challenges
Authors: Vanwolleghem Thomas , Armstrong Paige A. , Buti Maria , FitzSimons David , Valckx Sara , Hendrickx Greet , Van Damme Pierre
Published: October 2023

Infection with hepatitis D virus leads to liver disease and cancer most rapidly of all hepatitis viruses. However, knowledge about hepatitis D remains poor and the burden and impact are underestimated, even though some 12–15 million people mainly in low‐ and middle‐income countries may be affected. Its epidemiology is changing, with increasing migration leading to increased risks of infection and disease. A recent Viral Hepatitis Prevention Board meeting reviewed the current epidemiological status, improvements in diagnostic testing, advances in the development of novel antiviral agents in phase III trials and the need for a greater public health response, such as new guidelines and recommended testing of all people newly identified as infected with hepatitis B virus for hepatitis D virus infection. It identified issues and needs for attention with regard to prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
Evidence‐based complementary feeding recipe book for Kenyan caregivers: A novel approach
Authors: Lowe Alyssa , Callis Amy , DiGirolamo Ann , Girard Amy W. , Boakye Amma , Ogutu Emily , Omosa Esther , Okeyo Frida , Odollo Lawrence , Samburu Betty , Arimi Caroline , Kamudoni Penjani , Gonzalez Wendy , Codjia Patrick , Kiige Laura
Published: October 2023

The Kenyan Ministry of Health (MOH) and a consortium of nutritionists, researchers and communication, and design specialists developed a novel approach to create an evidence‐based recipe book promoting complementary feeding (CF) in Kenya. The ADAPT approach includes five steps: applied research (A), dialogue with stakeholders (D), adapted behaviour change communication (BCC) theories (A), purpose‐driven visual communication (P), and tailoring to priority audiences (T). Through this approach, the recipe book addresses key knowledge gaps using behaviour change theories and visual communication best practice to increase accessibility, acceptability, retention and motivation for behaviour change. The book addresses barriers to CF identified through formative applied research. Dialogue with stakeholders helped ensure cultural appropriateness and the book's alignment with MOH recommendations and key messages. The book uses behaviour change theories to approach the reader in a respectful way that motivates behaviour change. The use of consistent, purpose‐driven visuals helps ensure key messages are easily understood and accessible to all caregivers regardless of literacy level. The book's tone and content are tailored to its audiences’ attributes, needs and preferences. This five‐step process inspired the development of ADAPT, a novel approach that integrates behaviour change and visual communication for greater impact. This paper outlines how the consortium used the ADAPT approach to develop an evidence‐based book that thoughtfully and holistically addresses a wide range of barriers, provides practical solutions and increases self‐efficacy around CF. It offers a blueprint for public health practitioners from any field who are interested in using visual behaviour change communication to promote healthy behaviour.
The safety of at home powdered infant formula preparation: A community science project
Authors: Grant Aimee , Jones Sara , Sibson Vicky , Ellis Rebecca , Dolling Abbie , McNamara Tara , Cooper Jonie , Dvorak Susan , Breward Sharon , Buchanan Phyll , Yhnell Emma , Brown Amy
Published: October 2023

Formula fed infants experience gastrointestinal infections at higher rates than breastfed infants, due in part to bacteria in powdered infant formula (PIF) and bacterial contamination of infant feeding equipment. The United Kingdom National Health Service (UK NHS) has adopted the World Health Organization recommendation that water used to reconstitute PIF is ≥70°C to eliminate bacteria. We used community science methods to co‐design an at home experiment and online questionnaire (‘research diary’) to explore the safety of PIF preparation compared to UK NHS guidelines. 200 UK‐based parents of infants aged ≤12 months were recruited; 151 provided data on PIF preparation, and 143 were included in the analysis of water temperatures used to reconstitute PIF. Only 14.9% (n = 11) of 74 PIF preparation machines produced a water temperature of ≥70°C compared with 78.3% (n = 54) of 69 kettle users (p < 0.001). The mean temperature of water dispensed by PIF preparation machines was 9°C lower than kettles (Machine M = 65.78°C, Kettle M = 75.29°C). Many parents did not always fully follow NHS safer PIF preparation guidance, and parents did not appear to understand the potential risks of PIF bacterial contamination. Parents should be advised that the water dispensed by PIF preparation machines may be below 70°C, and could result in bacteria remaining in infant formula, potentially leading to gastrointestinal infections. PIF labelling should advise that water used to prepare PIF should be ≥70°C and highight the risks of not using sufficiently hot water, per WHO Europe advice. There is an urgent need for stronger consumer protections regarding PIF preparation devices.
Exploring chromosome evolution in 250 million year old groups of dragonflies and damselflies (Insecta:Odonata)
Authors: Tolman Ethan R. , Beatty Christopher D. , Bush Jonas , Kohli Manpreet K. , Frandsen Paul B. , Gosnell J. Stephen , Ware Jessica L.
Published: October 2023

Using recently published chromosome‐length genome assemblies of two damselfly species, Ischnura elegans and Platycnemis pennipes, and two dragonfly species, Pantala flavescens and Tanypteryx hageni, we demonstrate that the autosomes of Odonata have undergone few fission, fusion, or inversion events, despite 250 million years of separation. In the four genomes discussed here, our results show that all autosomes have a clear ortholog in the ancestral karyotype. Despite this clear chromosomal orthology, we demonstrate that different factors, including concentration of repeat dynamics, GC content, relative position on the chromosome, and the relative proportion of coding sequence all influence the density of syntenic blocks across chromosomes. However, these factors do not interact to influence synteny the same way in any two pairs of species, nor is any one factor retained in all four species. Furthermore, it was previously unknown whether the micro‐chromosomes in Odonata are descended from one ancestral chromosome. Despite structural rearrangements, our evidence suggests that the micro‐chromosomes in the sampled Odonata do indeed descend from an ancestral chromosome, and that the micro‐chromosome in P. flavescens was lost through fusion with autosomes.
Avowal under oppression
Authors: Maxwell Sydney
Published: October 2023

Leading expressivist proposals characterize the mental state expressed in the making of a normative judgment solely in terms of intrinsic, psychological dispositions. As a result, they fail to capture a subset of the normative judgments that agents can and do make; they miss the way that external factors can influence what the making of a normative judgment looks like. This problem can be seen most plainly in the context of systemic oppression. Intuitively, one can make a normative judgment that conflicts with the oppressive ideas one has previously been conditioned to endorse, but expressivism seems to deny that this is possible. The expressivist's inability to count these avowals made under oppression as genuine normative judgments makes expressivism deficient as a metaethical theory.
New and emerging options for management of invasive fungal diseases in paediatric patients
Authors: Groll Andreas H. , Körholz Katharina , Holterhus Malcolm , Lehrnbecher Thomas
Published: October 2023

Invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) play an important role in the supportive care of paediatric patients with acute leukaemia and those undergoing allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation, and they are associated with significantly decreased overall survival rates in affected individuals. Relative to adults, children and adolescents are distinct in terms of host biology, predisposing conditions, presentation and epidemiology of fungal diseases, and in the pharmacology of antifungal agents. The paediatric development of antifungal agents has moved forward in a coordinated manner, and major advances have been made regarding concepts and recommendations for the prevention and treatment of IFDs. However, antifungal therapy is increasingly complex, and a solid knowledge of the available options is needed more than ever for successful management. This narrative review provides a summary of the paediatric development of agents that have been recently approved (anidulafungin, posaconazole) or are in advanced stages of development (isavuconazole). It also reviews the emerging evidence for the efficacy of echinocandins for prophylaxis of invasive aspergillosis, presents new data on alternative dosing regimens of echinocandins and voriconazole, and provides a brief overview of new antifungal agents in clinical development that are expected to be developed for paediatric patients.
Salivary opiorphin levels in denture‐related traumatic ulcers
Authors: Ozdogan Mahmut Sertac , Gungormus Mustafa
Published: October 2023

Objective

Opiorphin is a pentapeptide secreted in saliva and has a strong analgesic effect. Salivary opiorphin has been shown to increase in orofacial pain and may act as a pain reliever in pain caused by denture‐related ulcers. The current study aimed to evaluate the salivary opiorphin levels in traumatic ulcers caused by ill‐fitting dentures and demonstrate whether there is any correlation between trauma‐related pain levels and salivary opiorphin levels.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐two individuals with new full dentures and a complaint of pain due to ill‐fitting were included in this study. Patients were asked to rate their level of pain on a visual analog scale (VAS). Then, saliva specimens were collected at the first visit with the complaint of pain and 7 days following the denture adjustment.

Results

The average saliva opiorphin level before and after denture adjustment were 19.29 ± 5.44 and 15.78 ± 3.95 ng/mL, respectively. A dependent (paired) t‐test determined that the mean salivary opiorphin level differed statistically significantly before and after the adjustment of the dentures.

Conclusions

The findings show that salivary opiorphin levels increase in pain associated with denture‐related traumatic ulcers. Adjusting the dentures resulted in pain relief and a statistically significant reduction in opiorphin levels.
When do bureaucrats respond to external demands? A theoretical framework and empirical test of bureaucratic responsiveness
Authors: Rimkutė Dovilė , van der Voet Joris
Published: October 2023

Bureaucrats must balance neutral competence with responsiveness to external demands. As external demands are simultaneous and multidimensional, this study analyzes bureaucratic responsiveness according to bureaucratic actors' prioritization decisions. Using a discrete choice experiment followed by qualitative interviews in the context of EU agencies, we investigate to what extent bureaucratic responsiveness depends upon the stakeholder that expresses an external demand (source), the aspect of bureaucratic conduct that is addressed (content), and the presence of adverse media attention (salience). In addition to corroborating prior empirical findings, we provide a novel understanding of bureaucratic responsiveness by showing the way demands' source and content affect responsiveness jointly. Across the range of technical, performative, legal‐procedural, and moral demands, we identify which stakeholders can impose demands most authoritatively. We also extend previous research by demonstrating that adverse media attention strengthens responsiveness to technical and moral demands, but not to performative and legal‐procedural demands.
Active versus passive restoration of tallgrass prairie in the U.S. Midwest: plant species diversity and assemblage, net primary production and soil carbon sequestration
Authors: Choi Young D. , Kelleher Eric M. , Bird Eric J. , Murphy Shane
Published: October 2023

We investigated the plant species diversity, community assemblage, net primary production and soil carbon sequestration in an old field (OF), which went through passive restoration with spontaneous secondary succession, and a restored prairie (RP), which went through active restoration with reintroduction of native plants. The passive restoration in OF did not attain as high diversity and richness of plant species as did in RP. Our NMS (nonmetric multidimensional scaling) ordination revealed a clear divergence of RP and OF vegetation with dissimilar species compositions to separate paths of succession trajectory. The spontaneous succession in OF has made very little progress due to a potentially strong inhibitory priority effect of invasive plants. The belowground biomass in the high‐diversity RP was 1.3× higher than the low‐diversity OF. We found no measurable difference in soil C sequestration between RP and OF at this time, possibly due to edaphic factors, lack of legumes, or both. Human intervention is needed for restoring abandoned croplands—highly disturbed, fragmented and isolated habitats—to tallgrass prairies in the U.S. Midwest. Our recommended intervention includes but is not limited to removal of exotic plants, further augmentation of native plants (particularly legumes), and periodic burns.
Effect of antifibrotic agents on postoperative complications after lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Moncomble Elsa , Weisenburger Gaelle , Picard Clément , Dégot Tristan , Reynaud‐Gaubert Martine , Nieves Ana , Mornex Jean François , Dauriat Gaelle , Messika Jonathan , Godet Cendrine , Hirschi Sandrine , Le Pavec Jérôme , Borie Raphael , Mordant Pierre , Lortat‐Jacob Brice , Mal Hervé , Bunel Vincent
Published: October 2023

Background

Antifibrotic agents (AFAs) are now standard‐of‐care for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Concerns have arisen about the safety of these drugs in patients undergoing lung transplantation (LTx).

Methods

We performed a multi‐centre, nationwide, retrospective, observational study of French IPF patients undergoing LTx between 2011 and 2018 to determine whether maintaining AFAs in the peri‐operative period leads to increased bronchial anastomoses issues, delay in skin healing and haemorrhagic complications. We compared the incidence of post‐operative complications and the survival of patients according to AFA exposure.

Results

Among 205 patients who underwent LTx for IPF during the study period, 58 (28%) had received AFAs within 4 weeks before LTx (AFA group): pirfenidone in 37 (18.0%) and nintedanib in 21 (10.2%). The median duration of AFA treatment before LTx was 13.8 (5.6–24) months. The AFA and control groups did not significantly differ in airway, bleeding or skin healing complications (p = 0.91, p = 0.12 and p = 0.70, respectively). Primary graft dysfunction was less frequent in the AFA than control group (26% vs. 43%, p = 0.02), and the 90‐day mortality was lower (7% vs. 18%, p = 0.046).

Conclusions

AFA therapy did not increase airway, bleeding or wound post‐operative complications after LTx and could be associated with reduced rates of primary graft dysfunction and 90‐day mortality.
Evaluating the efficiency and safety of large‐volume leukapheresis using the Spectra Optia continuous mononuclear cell collection protocol for peripheral blood stem cell collection from healthy donors: A retrospective study
Authors: Sumii Yuichi , Fujii Keiko , Kondo Takumi , Urata Tomohiro , Kimura Maiko , Fujiwara Hideaki , Asada Noboru , Ennishi Daisuke , Nishimori Hisakazu , Matsuoka Ken‐ichi , Otsuka Fumio , Maeda Yoshinobu , Fujii Nobuharu
Published: October 2023

Background

Large‐volume leukapheresis (LVL) refers to processing of more than three volumes of blood in a single session for peripheral blood stem cell collection. Recently, continuous mononuclear cell collection (cMNC) protocol has been developed using the Spectra Optia system, which is a widely used apheresis device. LVL using the novel protocol has been investigated in patients. However, the efficiency and safety of LVL in healthy donors using this protocol has not been characterized. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficiency and tolerability of CD34+ collection of LVL with the cMNC protocol in healthy donors.

Study Design and Methods

We retrospectively collected data on LVL (>3 total blood volume) and normal‐volume leukapheresis (NVL) performed in healthy donors between October 2019 and December 2021. All procedures were performed using the cMNC protocol.

Results

Although pre‐apheresis CD34+ cell count was lesser in LVL (23.5 vs. 58.0/μL, p < .001), CD34+ collection efficiency was comparable between LVL and NVL (61.2% vs. 61.4%, p = .966). Platelet loss was significantly higher in LVL compared to NVL (38.0% vs. 29.4%, p < .001), with no correlation between attrition of platelet and processing blood volume. Moreover, the incidence of citrate toxicity during procedures was comparable between the two groups (31.6% vs. 21.4%, p = .322). All LVL procedures could be completed without any adverse events.

Conclusion

Allogeneic LVL procedure using Spectra Optia cMNC protocol was well tolerated by the donors and resulted in efficient collection of CD34+ cells, which was comparable to that of NVL.
The successful use of a subcutaneous catheter in the management of severe subcutaneous emphysema in a dog with laryngeal crush injury and tracheostomy tube placement
Authors: Poirier Maude , Walton Rebecca A. L.
Published: October 2023

Objective

To describe the placement of a subcutaneous catheter in a dog for the management of severe subcutaneous emphysema secondary to severe laryngeal crushing injury and temporary tracheostomy tube placement.

Case Summary

A 6‐year‐old male neutered Kelpie suffered a severe laryngeal crushing injury following a dog attack. Case management included the placement of a temporary tracheostomy tube due to severe respiratory compromise and inspiratory dyspnea associated with the crush injury. During hospitalization, the patient developed severe subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and a pneumothorax as a complication of the laryngeal crushing injury and temporary tracheostomy. A subcutaneous catheter was placed to manage the recurrent subcutaneous emphysema while the tracheostomy stoma healed. Five months posttrauma, the dog returned to normal with mild stridor during excitement and while panting.

New or Unique Information Provided

This is the first report in veterinary medicine describing the use of a subcutaneous catheter for the management of subcutaneous emphysema secondary to laryngeal crush injury and temporary tracheostomy tube placement.
Meeting report: Xenotransplantation Development Conference in Neijiang, China
Authors: Huai Guoli , Schuurman Henk‐Jan , Cooper David K. C. , Bühler Léo H. , Deng Shaoping , Pan Dengke
Published: October 2023

A conference on progress in the development of xenotransplantation in China was held in Neijiang, Sichuan, in May 2023, and was attended by approximately 100 established researchers and trainees. Progress in xenotransplantation research was reviewed by both Chinese and foreign experts. The topics discussed ranged from genetic engineering of pigs and the results of pig‐to‐nonhuman primate organ transplantation to the requirements for designated pathogen‐free (DPF) pig facilities and regulation of xenotransplantation. This conference served as an opportunity to collectively advance the development of xenotransplantation in China and pave the way for its clinical application.
Experience of having a sibling with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Kantor Jiří , Smrčková Alžběta , de Goumoëns Véronique , Munn Zachary , Svobodová Zuzana , Klugar Miloslav
Published: October 2023

Objective:

This qualitative systematic review aims to understand the experiences of neurotypical siblings of a person with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Introduction:

ASD influences communication and social interaction with other people and has a significant impact on family relationships. The experiences of siblings range from the positive, such as development of increased empathy and ability to cope with challenges, to experiences that are more negative, such as a higher risk of bullying. In many countries, neurotypical siblings are marginalized and don’t receive adequate support to cope with the increased challenges.

Inclusion Criteria:

This review will consider qualitative studies exploring the experiences of siblings of a person with ASD. There are no limitations regarding age, gender, sex, or length of relationship with the sibling. We will consider studies from all countries and contexts.

Methods:

This study will be conducted according to JBI methodology for qualitative reviews. A 3-step search strategy will be used to find published and unpublished studies in the following sources: MEDLINE, CINAHL, APA PsycINFO, Scopus, SocINDEX, Web of Science, Embase, ERIC, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, Open Dissertations, and Google Scholar (first 100 records). There will be no search limitations on the publication period or language, but only studies with an English-language abstract/title will be considered for inclusion. Screening, data extraction, and data synthesis will be conducted by 2 independent reviewers.
Oral hygiene care and the management of oral symptoms in patients with cancer in palliative care: a mixed methods systematic review protocol
Authors: Serra Ricardo , de Oliveira Célia Simão , Roque Sofia , Herrera Federico , Arco Helena
Published: October 2023

Objective:

The objective of this review is to examine the effectiveness of oral hygiene care in the management of oral symptoms in patients with cancer under specialist palliative care and the patients’ experience of such symptoms and care.

Introduction:

Oral symptoms, such as xerostomia, mouth pain, or dysgeusia, are highly prevalent in patients with cancer under specialist palliative care. These symptoms have a negative effect on patients’ quality of life. Oral hygiene care can manage oral symptoms and could be improved with a more systematized approach, adequate guidelines, and training to properly integrate oral hygiene into the care provided in specialist palliative care.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies on the effectiveness and experience of oral hygiene care intended to manage oral symptoms in patients with cancer aged 18 years or older, diagnosed with any type of cancer, under specialist palliative care.

Methods:

The search will be conducted in MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Dentistry and Oral Sciences Source (EBSCOhost), and MedicLatina (EBSCOhost). Sources of unpublished studies and gray literature to be searched will include Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations and Repositórios Científicos de Acesso Aberto de Portugal. Studies in English, Portuguese, and Spanish published from 2000 to the present will be considered. Methodological quality of included studies will be assessed and data will be extracted. Synthesis and integration will follow the JBI segregated approach for mixed methods reviews.

Review registration:

PROSPERO CRD42023400554
Economic evaluation of non-invasive liver tests for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis in chronic liver diseases: a systematic review protocol
Authors: de Almeida Cardoso Marilia Mastrocolla , Thabane Lehana , Romeiro Fernando Gomes , Silva Giovanni Faria , Machado-Rugolo Juliana , Fonseca Alan Francisco , dos Santos Wendel Mombaque , de Almeida Juliana Tereza Coneglian , Thavorn Kednapa , Tarride Jean-Eric
Published: October 2023

Objective:

The objective of this review is to determine the costs and benefits of non-invasive liver tests vs liver biopsy in patients with chronic liver diseases.

Introduction:

Hepatic diseases can lead to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In the past, liver biopsy was the only option for diagnosing fibrosis degree. Liver biopsy is an invasive procedure that depends on the sample size to be able to deliver an accurate diagnosis. In recent years, non-invasive liver tests have been increasingly used to estimate liver fibrosis degree; however, there is a lack of economic assessments of technology implementation outcomes.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will include partial (cost studies) and complete economic evaluation studies on hepatitis B, hepatitis C, alcoholic liver disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease that compare non-invasive liver tests with liver biopsies. Studies published in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, or Portuguese will be included. No date limits will be applied to the search.

Methods:

This review will identify published and unpublished studies. Published studies will be identified using MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and LILACS. Sources of unpublished studies and gray literature will include sources from health technology assessment agencies, clinical practice guidelines, regulatory approvals, advisories and warnings, and clinical trial registries, as well as Google Scholar. Two independent reviewers will screen and assess studies, and extract and critically appraise the data. Data extracted from the included studies will be analyzed and summarized to address the review objective using narrative text, and the JBI dominance ranking matrix.

Review registration:

PROSPERO CRD42023404278
Exergy Management Strategies for Hybrid Electric Ground Vehicles: A Dynamic Programming Solution
Authors: Acquarone Matteo , Pozzato Gabriele , James Corey , Onori Simona
Published: October 2023

In this work, exergy management strategies (ExMSs) for hybrid electric ground vehicles (HEVs) are developed. The main advantage of using the exergetic framework is the possibility of pursuing unconventional optimization goals that are inaccessible to the standard energy management strategy (EMS). For instance, in military applications, the critical goal of preventing thermal imaging detection from adversary units does not seem achievable with the conventional EMS. On the other hand, the exergy-based framework can be adopted to reduce the vehicle thermal emissions through the minimization of exergy terms related to heat exchange. Moreover, the overall efficiency of the vehicle can be increased through the minimization of the exergy destruction, a quantity that is not quantifiable by energy-based methods. In this paper, the exergetic model of a series hybrid electric military truck and the exergetic model of the electric induction generator are developed and used to formulate and solve two novel exergy management strategies aiming to minimize genset exergy destruction and thermal emissions, respectively. The optimal solutions to the EMS and ExMSs control problems are obtained through Dynamic Programming over two driving missions. The results show that ExMS for the minimization of exergy destruction achieves similar results to the standard EMS, while the ExMS for the minimization of thermal emissions obtains significantly lower thermal emissions compared to the EMS, effectively reducing the thermal imaging detection risk.
Particle Image Velocimetry in a Centrifugal Pump: Influence of Walls on the Flow at Different Axial Positions
Authors: Perissinotto Rodolfo M. , Fonseca William D. P. , Cerqueira Rafael F. L. , Monte Verde William , Bannwart Antonio C. , Franklin Erick M. , Castro Marcelo S.
Published: October 2023

For almost a century, humans have relied on centrifugal pumps for the transport of low-viscous fluids in commercial, agricultural, and industrial activities. Details of the fluid flow in impellers often influence the overall performance of the centrifugal pump and may explain unstable and inefficient operations taking place sometimes. However, most studies in the literature were devoted to understanding the flow in the midaxial position of the impeller, only with a few focusing their analysis on regions closer to solid walls. This paper aims to study the water flow in the vicinity of the front and rear covers (shroud and hub) of a radial impeller to address the influence of these walls on the fluid dynamics. For that, experiments using particle image velocimetry (PIV) were conducted in a transparent pump at three different axial planes, and the PIV images were processed to obtain the average velocity fields and profiles, as well as turbulence levels. Our results suggest that: (i) significant angular deviations are observed when the velocity vectors on the peripheral planes are compared with those on the central plane; (ii) the velocity profiles close to the border are similar to those in the middle, but the magnitudes are lower close to the hub than to the shroud; (iii) the turbulent kinetic energy on the periphery is up to eight times greater than that measured at the center. Our results bring new insights that can help propose mathematical models and improve the design of new impellers. A database and technical drawings of the centrifugal pump are also available in this paper so that other researchers can perform numerical simulations and validate them against experimental data.
State of the Art in Radiostereometric Analysis for Tibial Baseplate Migration and Future Research Directions
Authors: Niesen Abigail E. , Hull Maury L.
Published: October 2023

Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) measures movement (migration) of a baseplate relative to the underlying tibia after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and has been used extensively to evaluate safety of new implant designs and/or surgical techniques regarding baseplate loosening. Because RSA is a complex methodology which involves various choices that researchers make, including whether to use marker-based or model-based methods, which migration metric to report, how to relate short-term migrations to long-term risk, and how these choices impact error, the objectives of this review were to: (1) lay out a comprehensive structure illustrating the multiple components/considerations for RSA and their interrelations, (2) review components of the structure using the latest RSA literature, and (3) use the preceding review as a context for identifying future areas of study. The components to be reviewed were structured using the following topics: type of RSA, migration metrics, sources of error, studies/reports of error, stability limits, and studies of error in stability limits. Based on the current RSA literature and knowledge gaps which exist, the following future research directions were identified: (1) revising the ISO standard to require reporting of clinical measurement error (bias) and recommending use of a local baseplate coordinate system, (2) identifying the migration metric and associated threshold most predictive of baseplate loosening for individual patients, (3) creating a method for data sharing to improve individual patient diagnostics, and (4) determining an appropriate stability limit for model-based RSA for group stability and individual patient diagnostics.
Long-Term Effects of Reproduction and Lactation on the Rat Supraspinatus Tendon and Proximal Humerus
Authors: Fung Ashley K. , Li Yihan , Wang Jasmine , Leahy Thomas P. , Shetye Snehal S. , Liu X. Sherry , Soslowsky Louis J.
Published: October 2023

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, women undergo hormonal fluctuations required for fetal development, parturition, and infant growth. These changes have secondary consequences on the maternal musculoskeletal system, increasing the risk for joint pain and osteoporosis. Though hormone levels return to prepregnancy levels postpartum, women may experience lasting musculoskeletal pain. Sex disparities exist in the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, but it remains unclear how reproductive history may impact sex differences. Specifically, the effects of both reproductive history and sex on the rotator cuff have not been studied. Pregnancy and lactation affect bone microstructure, suggesting possible impairments at the enthesis of rotator cuff tendons, where tears commonly occur. Therefore, our objective was to evaluate how reproductive history affects sex differences of the supraspinatus tendon and proximal humerus using male, virgin female, and female rats with a history of reproduction (referred to as reproductive females). We hypothesized tendon mechanical properties and humeral bone microstructure would be inferior in reproductive females compared to virgin females. Results showed sex differences independent of reproductive history, including greater tendon midsubstance modulus but lower subchondral bone mineral density (BMD) in females. When considering reproductive history, reproductive rats exhibited reduced tendon insertion site modulus and trabecular bone micro-architecture compared to virgin females with no differences from males. Overall, our study identified long-term changes in supraspinatus tendon mechanical and humeral trabecular bone properties that result following pregnancy and lactation, highlighting the importance of considering reproductive history in investigations of sex differences in the physiology and pathology of rotator cuff injuries.
Options for Improving Performance of Additively Manufactured Nickel-Base Superalloys for Gas Turbine Applications
Authors: Bridges Alex , Shingledecker John , Clark John , Crudden David , Kirka Michael , Fernandex-Zelaia Patxi
Published: October 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) has been increasingly used for gas turbine (GT) components over the last decade. Many different components can be successfully designed, printed, and used in the gas turbine. However, there still exist questions on the use of AM components in hot-section areas. These components are typically fabricated from nickel-base superalloys that are known to have superior mechanical properties at elevated temperatures (e.g., creep and fatigue). Research over the last decade has been primarily focused on the printability of nickel-base superalloys, and there still exists a gap in understanding the high temperature processing–structure–properties–performance relationships of these alloy systems. This study evaluates the effect of processing methods, such as laser-based powder bed fusion (LBPBF) and electron beam powder bed fusion (EBPBF), on the resulting microstructure and time dependent mechanical properties of a nickel-base superalloy (ABD®900). Material after each build was subsequently heat treated using both near-solvus (at or slightly below the gamma prime solvus temperature) and super-solvus (above gamma prime solvus temperature) conditions. Multistep aging was then carried out to produce a bi-modal distribution of gamma prime precipitates as is typical in similar alloys. Microstructure was evaluated in both the as-built and fully heat-treated conditions for each processing technique. Mechanical testing was conducted to evaluate the effects of AM build methods, microstructure, and heat treatment on high temperature mechanical properties. The results show that there are several methods which can be used to improve the performance of components built using AM. The creep testing results for ABD900-AM clearly show an improvement in properties (rupture life and ductility) at all test conditions compared to testing in the prior AM alloy of the same class. A super-solvus heat treatment improved creep rupture strength by ∼3× in the LBPBF material compared to the near-solvus heat treatment. These findings provide directions for future studies to advance the overall state of gas turbine technology by enabling ABD®900-AM material and other AM alloys to be used in more innovative hot-section components.
Assessing Transfer Matrix Models and Measurements Using Acoustic Energy Conservation Principles
Authors: Latour Véranika , Rajendram Soundararajan Preethi , Durox Daniel , Renaud Antoine , Candel Sébastien
Published: October 2023

Acoustic transfer matrices are widely used in the analysis of combustion dynamics of gas turbines. The reliability of the analysis thus depends on the quality of the determination of the transfer matrices of the individual acoustic elements composing the system's acoustic network. These matrices are, in some simple cases, deduced analytically using one-dimensional acoustic modeling. For more complex elements, such as swirlers, perforated plates, or injection units, the transfer matrix has to be obtained experimentally using an impedance tube setup. There are, however, uncertainties in the experimental determination of the transfer matrix coefficients and in the modeling of key elements like injection units. It is thus worth examining experimental data and assessing models using acoustic energy conservation principles. The general idea is to consider the acoustic power flow in the element represented by the transfer matrix T and compare the power input to the power output. This is best accomplished by obtaining a representation in terms of a scattering matrix S, which may be deduced from the transfer matrix T. It is first shown that standard models like those corresponding to a constant area duct or an area change comply with acoustic energy conservation. This analysis is then employed to assess the L−ζ model, widely used to describe injection unit dynamics. Acoustic conservation principles are then used to assess transfer matrices of a family of injectors determined experimentally and check that the data complies with these principles.
Multidisciplinary Optimization of Thermodynamic Cycles for Large-Scale Heat Pumps With Simultaneous Component Design
Authors: Gollasch Jens , Lockan Michael , Stathopoulos Panagiotis , Nicke Eberhard
Published: October 2023

The performance of high temperature heat pumps (HTHPs) is highly dependent on the efficiency of its main components, which need to be optimally matched especially in closed cycles. The design process is therefore a challenging task as many disciplines and varying modeling depths need to be considered. Consequently, this is usually a sequential procedure beginning with cycle definition and raising the fidelity for component design. Fundamental design decisions are made based on assumptions for component performance. Mistakes in the phase of cycle definition are hard to reverse in later design stages. Therefore, this work introduces holistic approaches to the multidisciplinary design of closed Brayton cycles. Aerodynamic compressor design with two-dimensional throughflow analysis and geometry-based heat exchanger sizing are simultaneously optimized with thermodynamic cycle parameters. The presented methodologies make use of highly sophisticated design tools drawing on many years of experience in gas turbine design. The results demonstrate that holistic heat pump optimization can be successfully performed with reasonable computational effort. The advantages compared to conventional sequential design are elaborated. A comparison of two optimization concepts indicates that splitting up the design vectors of cycle and components shows the tendency to improve robustness. Finally, the tradeoff between system compactness and performance is demonstrated with a multi-objective optimization study.
Generating Dispatching Rules for the Interrupting Swap-Allowed Blocking Job Shop Problem Using Graph Neural Network and Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Wong Vivian Wen Hui , Kim Sang Hun , Park Junyoung , Park Jinkyoo , Law Kincho H.
Published: October 2023

The interrupting swap-allowed blocking job shop problem (ISBJSSP) is a complex scheduling problem that is able to model many manufacturing planning and logistics applications realistically by addressing both the lack of storage capacity and unforeseen production interruptions. Subjected to random disruptions due to machine malfunction or maintenance, industry production settings often choose to adopt dispatching rules to enable adaptive, real-time re-scheduling, rather than traditional methods that require costly re-computation on the new configuration every time the problem condition changes dynamically. To generate dispatching rules for the ISBJSSP problem, we introduce a dynamic disjunctive graph formulation characterized by nodes and edges subjected to continuous deletions and additions. This formulation enables the training of an adaptive scheduler utilizing graph neural networks and reinforcement learning. Furthermore, a simulator is developed to simulate interruption, swapping, and blocking in the ISBJSSP setting. By employing a set of reported benchmark instances, we conduct a detailed experimental study on ISBJSSP instances with a range of machine shutdown probabilities to show that the scheduling policies generated can outperform or are at least as competitive as existing dispatching rules with predetermined priority. This study shows that the ISBJSSP, which requires real-time adaptive solutions, can be scheduled efficiently with the proposed method when production interruptions occur with random machine shutdowns.
Radius of Contact During Friction Surfacing of Stainless Steel 304L: Effect of Spindle Speed and Rod Diameter
Authors: Agiwal Hemant , Yeom Hwasung , Sridharan Kumar , Rudraraju Shiva , Pfefferkorn Frank E.
Published: October 2023

The “radius of contact” or the “real-rotational contact plane,” has been increasingly mentioned terminology in friction surfacing. However, the fundamental understanding of the flow dynamics behind this phenomenon is still very limited. The goal of this study was to understand the influence of spindle speed and consumable rod diameter on the flow dynamics and the radius of contact during friction surfacing of 304L stainless steel over a substrate of the same material. Friction surfacing was performed using consumable rods with diameters of 4.76 mm, 9.52 mm, and 12.7 mm while using spindle speeds from 1500 rpm to 20,000 rpm. The impact of spindle speed on deposition morphology, including the radius of contact, was studied. The radius of contact was calculated empirically and was found to be inversely proportional to the tangential velocity of the rod. The coupling between flow stresses and localized forces is hypothesized to be the key factor behind the variation of the radius of contact with processing conditions.