bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classification of the acquisition conditions driving the accuracy of strain measurements during in situ DIC with scanning electron microscope
Authors: Goulmy Jean‐Patrick , Guittonneau Fabrice , Jégou Sébastien , Barrallier Laurent
Published: July 2023

Performing in situ scanning electron microscope (SEM) tests is an interesting way to visualise strain heterogeneities under mechanical loading. An essential step before performing the tests is to define the acquisition conditions. The aim of this paper is to propose a classification of the acquisition conditions that are most important for the accuracy of strain measurements using digital image correlation (DIC) in in situ SEM tests. More than 200 image pairs were acquired using a field emission gun SEM. The influence of different acquisition conditions was investigated: acceleration voltage, probe current, working distance, magnification, number of integrated images, image resolution, integration and number of integrated images, scan speed, contrast, brightness and exposure time of the sample in a given area. The methodology implemented in this work is an interesting tool for detecting scan line shift, drift distortion, spatial distortion and rastering artefacts. It allows the optimization of SEM acquisition conditions for strain measurements. Finally, optimal acquisition conditions for in situ testing are proposed and used to perform a tensile test on pure copper. The main factors highlighted include the size of the subset used in the DIC, the beam stabilisation time before image acquisition and the size of the images, which play a significant role in the results. It is recommended to apply the methodology to each device to optimise the acquisition conditions.
Taquicardia ventricular monomórfica no sostenida asociada con hipopotasemia por uso de fludrocortisona:
Authors: Zambrano Jiménez Rafael Antonio , Niño Mahecha Freyberson Enrique
Published: July 2023

Caso clínico: Paciente de 35 años con antecedente de adrenalitis infecciosa en manejo ambulatorio con fludrocortisona, quien consultó al servicio de urgencias por un cuadro clínico de 8 días dado por un zumbido en el oído izquierdo asociado con un cuadro sincopal con relajación de esfínteres, en quien se documentó hipopotasemia severa, pues sus análisis de laboratorio mostraron potasio sérico de ingreso en 2,0 meq/L (normal 3,5-5,1 meq/L) con cambios electrocardiográficos tipo extrasístoles ventriculares y salvas de taquicardia ventricular con requerimiento de estancia en la sala de reanimación y manejo interdisciplinario. Su taquicardia ventricular se alivió por completo después de la corrección de la hipopotasemia. Conclusión: La sospecha temprana de hipopotasemia asociada con el uso de mineralocorticoides potentes en los casos de adrenalitis infecciosa mejora la sobrevida y el pronóstico en los pacientes con esta entidad. Aunque no hay mucha literatura al respecto, se han encontrado referencias de incidencia hasta de un 30%.
Impacts of Flow Swirl on Stability and Flow/Flame Interactions of Premixed Oxy-Methane Swirl Flames
Authors: Nemitallah Medhat A. , Hossain Shorab , Abdelhafez Ahmed , Habib Mohamed A.
Published: July 2023

Effects of flow swirl on stability and flow/flame interactions of premixed oxy-methane flames (CH4/O2/CO2) are investigated experimentally and numerically in a premixed model gas turbine combustor. Two swirlers of 55-deg and 45-deg swirl angles were considered to perform this study over a range of combustor operating equivalence ratio (Φ = 0.1–1.0) and oxygen fraction (OF = 21%–70%) at a constant inlet flow velocity of 5.2 m/s. Combustor stability maps (representing flashback and blowout bounds) were identified experimentally in the Φ-OF space for the two swirlers, and the results were plotted over the calculated contours of adiabatic flame temperature (AFT). Specific flames were photographed using a camera to investigate the impact of flow swirl on flame macrostructure. Also, the shapes of the selected flames were calculated numerically using the contours of OH radicals, and the results showed good agreement with the photographed flame shapes. Contours of temperature and flow streamlines were plotted based on numerical calculations to figure out the influence of flow swirl on flame/flow interactions. The results showed that CH4/O2/CO2 swirl flames blow out at fixed AFT of ∼1600 K with no effect of swirl on flame stability near the blowout. Flow/flame interactions significantly affect flame stability near the flashback limit. Flame speed (FS) and AFT correlate with one another as log(FS) ∝ 1/AFT. The 45-deg swirler resulted in a wider stable combustion zone than that of the 55-deg swirler.
Flow Investigation and Optimization Design of a Radial Outflow Liquid Turbine Expander for Liquid CO2 Energy Storage System
Authors: Sun Shan , Sun Jinju , Song Peng , Wang Shengyuan
Published: July 2023

The radial outflow liquid turbine expander (LTEROF) draws increasing attention for enhancing the efficiency of the liquid CO2 energy storage (LCES) system. However, the detrimental cavitation deteriorates the flow behavior, which demands an in-depth study of the flow physics and then effective attenuation. This study aims to effectively mitigate thermosensitive fluid cavitation and reduce energy dissipation. First, a preliminary expander design methodology taking into account the large specific volume variation of working fluid is implemented. Next, the entropy production analysis method (EPAM) is proposed to characterize energy dissipation and cavitation. Furthermore, the improved cavitation and turbulence models are validated through simulating Hord's liquid hydrogen hydrofoil. To suppress the cavitation and energy dissipation, the optimization design method based on the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm together with the Kriging-based adaptive surrogate model is developed. Among them, the nonuniform relational B-splines and free form deformation (NURBS-FFD) method is applied to flexibly deform the profiles of nozzle and rotor, and a novel objective function incorporating vapor volume fraction and local entropy production rate (LEPR) is constructed to capture the cavitation and energy dissipation. During optimization, the optimizer is driven by the objective function to search globally toward the cavitation-resistance and low-dissipation geometry. With the optimization, the LEPR region shrinks and the cavitation is obviously weakened, the performance significantly improves both under design condition and under off-design conditions.
Steady-state sound propagation through hot exhaust jets in cooler cross-flow: A computational study
Authors: Leav O. , Cazzolato B. , Howard C. , Mabrouk B.
Published: July 2023

An analysis has been carried out to investigate the sound radiation through a heated jet in cooler cross-flow, which is representative of many industrial exhaust systems, using a hybrid steady-state computational fluid dynamics and computational acoustic model. The mean flow and temperature fields are modelled using steady-state computational fluid dynamics, with the turbulence modelled using Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes equations. The corresponding mean flow and temperature fields are used in the computational sound propagation model using linearised acoustic wave equation with mean flow based on a scalar flow potential. The results obtained from the computational simulations show that the flow significantly changes the sound propagation path and that the sound levels downstream of the duct outlet are higher than expected from using an acoustic monopole radiation pattern. The dominant mechanism affecting the propagation of sound is the refraction arising from the plume's temperature and velocity gradients. The sound propagation is highly dependent on the proximity from the duct outlet, normalised wavenumber, temperature and the jet to cross-flow mean velocity ratio. This computational study builds upon previous experimental work to analyse the fluid-acoustic interaction for heated jets in cooler cross-flow to understand the complex radiation pattern that leads to higher-than-expected sound levels downstream of the duct outlet.
Effects of Dancing Associated With Resistance Training on Functional Parameters and Quality of Life of Aging Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Domingues Lucas Betti , Payano Carlos Eduado , da Silva Peres Maykon , Sant’Anna Vitor Hugo , Cadore Eduardo Lusa , da Costa Rodrigues-Krause Josianne , Ferrari Rodrigo
Published: July 2023

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of a dance intervention associated with resistance training or health education program on functional paramaters and quality of life of aging women. Thirty-six women were allocated to dance plus resistance training group (D + RT) or dance plus health education group (D + HE). Both interventions lasted 8 weeks and were performed twice a week. Dance sessions lasted 60 min. Resistance training was composed by two to three sets of 10–15 repetitions in five exercises. Improvements were found in 30-s chair stand (D + RT: 6 ± 1 repetitions; D + HE: 7 ± 1 repetitions), 30-s arm curl (D + RT: 7 ± 1 repetitions; D + HE: 7 ± 1 repetitions), 6-min walk (D + RT: 43 ± 12 m; D + HE: 55 ± 12 m), timed up and go (D + RT: −1.1 ± 0.3 s; D + HE: −1.4 ± 0.2 s), and psychological domain of quality of life (D + RT: 6 ± 2%; D + HE: 5 ± 3%), with no difference between groups. Both groups improve functional parameters and quality of life of aging women.
Researchers’ responsibility to uphold Indigenous rights
Authors: Ignace Lawrence , Burton Lauren , Mynott Sara , Meehan Mairi , Olson Erica , Steel Jade , Ojeda Jaime , Harper Sarah , Ramirez Luisa , Baker Dana , Sleigh Laurel , Frenkel Caitie , Rhodes Chris , Ban Natalie C.
Published: July 2023

Too often research brings harm to Indigenous peoples
Anthropocene’s emblem may be Canadian pond
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: July 2023

Proposal to mark global changes of the 1950s now faces skeptical scientific bureaucracy
Role of Nitric Oxide in Hydroxylamine Oxidation by Ammonia-Oxidizing Bacteria
Authors: Choi Eunkyung , Chaudhry Sana I. , Martens-Habbena Willm
Published: July 2023

Ammonia oxidation by chemolithoautotrophic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) is thought to contribute significantly to global nitrous oxide (N
2
O) emissions and leaching of oxidized nitrogen, particularly through their activity in nitrogen (N)-fertilized agricultural production systems. Although substantial efforts have been made to characterize the N metabolism in AOB, recent findings suggest that nitric oxide (NO) may play an important mechanistic role as a free intermediate of hydroxylamine oxidation in AOB, further implying that besides hydroxylamine dehydrogenase (HAO), additional enzymes may be required to complete the ammonia oxidation pathway.
Mechanisms of Regulation of Cryptic Prophage-Encoded Gene Products in Escherichia coli
Authors: Ragunathan Preethi T. , Ng Kwan Lim Evelyne , Ma Xiangqian , Massé Eric , Vanderpool Carin K.
Published: July 2023

Cryptic or defective prophages have lost genes necessary to excise from the bacterial chromosome and produce phage progeny. In recent years, studies have found that cryptic prophage gene products influence diverse aspects of bacterial host cell physiology.
Plasma Microbial Cell-Free DNA Sequencing from over 15,000 Patients Identified a Broad Spectrum of Pathogens
Authors: Park Sarah Y. , Chang Eliza J , Ledeboer Nathan , Messacar Kevin , Lindner Martin S. , Venkatasubrahmanyam Shivkumar , Wilber Judith C. , Vaughn Marla Lay , Bercovici Sivan , Perkins Bradley A. , Nolte Frederick S.
Published: July 2023

Microbial cell-free DNA (mcfDNA) sequencing is an emerging infectious disease diagnostic tool which enables unbiased pathogen detection and quantification from plasma. The Karius Test, a commercial mcfDNA sequencing assay developed by and available since 2017 from Karius, Inc. (Redwood City, CA), detects and quantifies mcfDNA as molecules/μL in plasma.
Progressive fracturing in alluvial clasts
Authors: Shaanan Uri , Mushkin Amit , Rasmussen Monica , Sagy Amir , Meredith Philip , Nara Yoshitaka , Keanini Russell , Eppes Martha-Cary
Published: July 2023

Rock fracturing sets the pace for a range of geomorphic processes. While experimental studies and modeling have provided invaluable insights into the mechanisms and rates of rock fracturing as a function of stress, time, and environmental conditions, field-based observations of subaerial fracturing evolution over geologic time are scarce. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a systematic study of fractures that developed subaerially and in situ within clasts perched on abandoned late Quaternary alluvial surfaces (ca. 0, ca. 14, and ca. 62 ka in age) in the hyperarid Dead Sea Rift Valley, Israel. Using quantitative field observations, petrographic, and scanning electron microscopy, and micron-scale laser scans of fracture surfaces we found that fractures exhibit a consistent pattern of three distinctive weathering zones: (1) an “Outer Zone,” where fracture surface morphology resembles the clast exterior; (2) an “Accumulation Zone,” where fractures are infilled by “loose” accumulated particles; and (3) an “Inner Zone” where fractures extend inward to the crack-tip and preferentially follow grain boundaries. Crack-tips are characterized as a distinct micro domain that consists of fracture-parallel microcracks, chemical alteration, and dissolution morphologies. Altogether, the laboratory results indicate chemically enhanced fracturing and infiltration of water ahead of traction-free, open crack-tips. Field measurements also revealed an increase in fracture number density over geologic time. Our results highlight new details regarding the progressive nature of mechanical weathering through geologic time and the role of moisture as a potential rate-setting factor in the fracturing that allows mechanical weathering.
Supplemental Material: Sediment routing in an incised valley during Hurricane Harvey (2017) in Houston, Texas, USA: Implications for modern sedimentation
Authors: Stearns Andrew I. , al. et
Published: July 2023

Data sources, coverage and accessibility, and detailed geoprocessing procedures in ArcGIS®.  
Dispersion and Energy Characteristics of Bending Waves in a Plate Lying on a Two-Parameter Elastic Foundation
Authors: Erofeev V. I. , Lisenkova E. E.
Published: July 2023

The propagation of bending waves in a plate resting on a two-parameter elastic foundation is considered. In contrast to the classical Kirchhoff model, the mathematical model used here takes into account not only the kinetic and potential energies of bending vibrations, but also the kinetic energy due to the inertia of rotation of the plate elements during bending. The dispersion equation, phase velocity, energy transfer velocity, and energy characteristics of waves propagating in the plate are analyzed depending on the ratio of the coefficients determining the shear and compression stiffness of the elastic foundation. Conditions are found under which waves with phase and group velocities having opposite directions (frequently called “backward” waves), can exist in the plate. It is demonstrated that such waves significantly change the behavior of the energy flux. In addition, relations are found that relate the kinematic and average energy characteristics of the waves.
Dynamic Bayesian Contrastive Predictive Coding Model for Personalized Product Search
Authors: Wu Bin , Meng Zaiqiao , Liang Shangsong
Published: July 2023

In this article, we study the problem of dynamic personalized product search. Due to the data-sparsity problem in the real world, existing methods suffer from the challenge of data inefficiency. We address the challenge by proposing a Dynamic Bayesian Contrastive Predictive Coding model (DBCPC), which aims to capture the rich structured information behind search records to improve data efficiency. Our proposed DBCPC utilizes contrastive predictive learning to jointly learn dynamic embeddings with structure information of entities (i.e., users, products, and words). Specifically, our DBCPC employs structured prediction to tackle the intractability caused by non-linear output space and utilizes the time embedding technique to avoid designing different encoders each time in the Dynamic Bayesian models. In this way, our model jointly learns the underlying embeddings of entities (i.e., users, products, and words) via prediction tasks, which enables the embeddings to focus more on their general attributes and capture the general information during the preference evolution with time. For inferring the dynamic embeddings, we propose an inference algorithm combining the variational objective and the contrastive objectives. Experiments were conducted on an Amazon dataset and the experimental results show that our proposed DBCPC can learn the higher-quality embeddings and outperforms the state-of-the-art non-dynamic and dynamic models for product search.
Full Parameterization Study of a High-Energy and High-Power Li-Ion Cell for Physicochemical Models
Authors: Schmitt Christina , Gerle Martina , Kopljar Dennis , Friedrich K. Andreas
Published: July 2023

For physicochemical modelling of lithium ion batteries, an extensive parametrization is necessary. These parameters need to be derived cell specifically as they vary with cell design. In this study, two cells from the same manufacturer are investigated which are optimized for high power and high energy applications. After opening the cells under argon atmosphere, the battery materials are extracted to conduct various chemical and physical measurements to define the active material type, microstructure, conductivity and mass loading of the electrodes. Furthermore, laboratory cells were built from the extracted materials to evaluate tortuosity and exchange current density by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, open circuit voltages and solid diffusion coefficient by galvanostatic intermittent titration technique (GITT). The differences and similarities of these parameters for both cell types are discussed and compared to literature. Main differences are the electrode area, thickness, porosity, and thus, mass loading and areal capacity of the electrodes. Both cells have a NCA cathode, but only the high energy cell has a blend anode consisting of graphite and Si/SiOx whereas the anode active material of the high power cell is only made of graphite. The derived parameters are finally used for the parameterization of a P2D model.
Effect of Temperature and Thermal Stress on Micropores and Cracks in Aluminum Alloy Film During Micro-Arc Oxidation
Authors: Chai Yongsheng , Yan Junpeng , Wang Changhui , Zhang Long , Liang Mei
Published: July 2023

In this paper, COMSOL Multiphysics software was used to simulate the micro-arc oxidation of 7075 aluminum alloy, so as to study the influence of temperature and thermal stress on the micropores and cracks in the process of micro-arc oxidation. The results show that: The high temperature and high-pressure environment at the discharge channel leads to the eruption of molten oxide at the discharge channel and the formation of irregular micropores on the surface of the oxide film. The reason for the formation of cracks is that the thermal stress around the discharge channel and in the corner region of the film layer is much larger than the tensile strength of the Al2O3 film layer, in which case the material will have local plastic deformation or cracks. The larger the temperature gradient span near the discharge channel is, the larger the thermal stress will be, resulting in larger diameter of micropores on the surface of the film, more irregular shape, and even bigger defects due to the penetration of cracks. Because the crack region has a relatively low resistivity, it is easier to generate a dense spark discharge, so the crack region has a denser distribution of micropores.
Toward Phase Pure CZTS Film-Based Solar Cell Prepared by the One-Step Hydrothermal Method: Influence of Copper Concentration
Authors: Allawi Nabaa H. , Al-Jawad Selma M. H.
Published: July 2023

Herein, the first paper for preparing Cu2ZnSnS4 film using EDTA as a complex agent by one-step hydrothermal method. The efficient Molybdenum oxide (MoO3) layer was also grown by the same step as preparing the Cu2ZnSnS4 film. The effects of different copper concentrations on the structural, optical, and electrical properties were studied. X-ray diffraction and Raman analyses confirmed the formation of polycrystalline kesterite phase Cu2ZnSnS4 films with preferred orientation along (112) plane and showed that structure property alters with copper concentration: at lower copper concentration single kesterite phase Cu2ZnSnS4 was formed, while with increasing copper concentration kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 and secondary phases were formed. Field emission scanning electron microscopy revealed a mixture of micro-flower and a thin network of nanoflakes morphology. In addition, it showed as copper concentration changes the grain size of micro-flower and thickness of flakes change. UV-visible analysis showed high and broad absorbance spectra with high absorption coefficient values of more than 104 cm−1 in visible and infrared regions.also, predicted the band gap of single-phase Cu2ZnSnS4 film equal to 1.4 eV. Photoluminescence analysis demonstrated a single emission peak located at 1.55 eV which is quite near to the band gap of kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4. Hall measurement showed the single phase sample is a p-type semiconductor with a resistivity of 5 Ω cm, a charge carrier concentration of 7.5 × 1016 cm−3 and mobility of 16 cm2 Vs−1. Finally, a heterojunction solar cell was made with Mo foil/MoO3/CZTS/Zn0.35Cd0.65S/ZnO/Al configuration. A photovoltaic conversion efficiency of (2.17%) was attained under 100 mW cm−2 with an open-circuit voltage of (0.432) V, short-circuit current density of (13.4) mA cm−2 and a fill factor of (37.5%).
N-acetylcysteine treatment attenuates hemodialysis access-related limb pathophysiology in mice with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Kim Kyoungrae , Cort Tomas A. , Kunz Eric M. , Moerschel Jack , Palzkill Victoria R. , Dong Gengfu , Moparthy Chatick N. , Anderson Erik M. , Fazzone Brian , O’Malley Kerri A. , Robinson Scott T. , Berceli Scott A. , Ryan Terence E. , Scali Salvatore T.
Published: July 2023

Hemodialysis via autogenous arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the preferred first-line modality for renal replacement therapy in patients with end-stage kidney disease. However, patients undergoing AVF surgery frequently experience a spectrum of hand disability symptoms postsurgery including weakness and neuromotor dysfunction. Unfortunately, no treatment is currently available to prevent or mitigate these symptoms. Here, we provide evidence that daily N-acetylcysteine supplementation can attenuate some aspects of limb neuromotor function in a preclinical mouse model of AVF.
Juvenile physical activity protects against isoproterenol-induced cardiac dysfunction later in life
Authors: Yusifov Aykhan , Borders Megan O. , DeHoff MacKenzie A. , Polson Sydney M. , Schmitt Emily E. , Bruns Danielle R.
Published: July 2023

Voluntary wheel running activity early in life induces persistent changes in the heart that attenuate isoproterenol-induced hypertrophy and fibrosis in adulthood. Though the mechanisms of this protection remain incompletely understood, activity-induced downregulation of adrenergic receptor expression early in life may contribute to later protection against adrenergic stress. Together these data suggest that efforts to maintain an active lifestyle early in life may have long-lasting cardioprotective benefits.
Regional lung perfusion using different indicators in electrical impedance tomography
Authors: Gaulton Timothy G. , Martin Kevin , Xin Yi , Victor Marcus , Ribeiro De Santis Santiago Roberta , Britto Passos Amato Marcelo , Berra Lorenzo , Cereda Maurizio
Published: July 2023

Electrical impedance tomography is an emerging tool to measure regional lung perfusion using kinetic analysis of a conductive indicator. Hypertonic sodium chloride is the standard agent used. We measured regional lung perfusion using another indicator, comparing hypertonic sodium chloride to sodium bicarbonate in an experimental swine lung injury model. We found strong agreement between the two indicators. Sodium bicarbonate may be a comparable indicator to measure regional lung perfusion with electrical impedance tomography.
Myocardial perfusion and flow reserve in the asynchronous heart: mechanistic insight from a computational model
Authors: Munneke Anneloes G. , Lumens Joost , Arts Theo , Prinzen Frits W. , Delhaas Tammo
Published: July 2023

This versatile modeling framework couples myocardial oxygen demand to oxygen supply and myocardial growth, enabling simulation of resting and hyperemic myocardial flow during acute and chronic asynchronous ventricular activation. Model-based findings suggest that reported inconsistencies in myocardial perfusion and flow reserve responses with asynchronous ventricular activation between patients can primarily be explained by the degree of dyssynchrony and wall mass remodeling, which together determine the heterogeneity in regional oxygen demand and, hence, supply with autoregulation.
Effect of acute heat exposure on the pressor response to a voluntary hypoxic apnea
Authors: Hemingway Holden W. , Richey Rauchelle E. , Moore Amy M. , Saul Benjamin M. , Shokraeifard Austin M. , Cope Heidi L. , Olivencia-Yurvati Albert H. , Cunningham Rebecca L. , Smith Michael L. , Romero Steven A.
Published: July 2023

The pressor response induced by a voluntary hypoxic apnea is mediated by increased sympathetic outflow. The neural control of blood pressure is altered in recovery from acute heat exposure, but its effect on the pressor response to a voluntary hypoxic apnea has never been explored. Our data suggest that prior heat exposure induces a cross-stressor effect such that the pressor response to a voluntary hypoxic apnea is attenuated.
The effect of increasing work rate amplitudes from a common metabolic baseline on the kinetic response of V̇o2p, blood flow, and muscle deoxygenation
Authors: Love Lorenzo K. , Hodgson Michael D. , Keir Daniel A. , Kowalchuk John M.
Published: July 2023

A step increase in work rate produces a monoexponential increase in V̇o2p and blood flow to a new steady-state. We found that step transitions from a common metabolic baseline to increasing work rate amplitudes produced a slowing of V̇o2p kinetics, no change in blood flow kinetics, and a speeding of muscle deoxygenation kinetics. As work rate amplitude increased, the ratio of blood flow to V̇o2p became smaller, while the amplitude of muscle deoxygenation became greater. The gain in vascular conductance became smaller, while kinetics tended to become slower at higher work rate amplitudes.
Role of lung lobar sliding on parenchymal distortion during breathing
Authors: Galloy Adam E. , Reinhardt Joseph M. , Raghavan Madhavan L.
Published: July 2023

The role of lobar sliding in lung mechanics is poorly understood. Delineating this role could help explain how breathing is affected by anatomical differences between subjects such as incomplete and missing lobar fissures. We used computational contact mechanics models of lungs from human subjects to delineate the effect of lobar sliding by comparing simulations that allowed and disallowed sliding. We found evidence consistent with the hypothesis that lung lobar sliding reduces parenchymal distortion during breathing.
Sympathetic circuits regulating hepatic glucose metabolism: where we stand
Authors: Zsombok Andrea , Desmoulins Lucie D. , Derbenev Andrei V.
Published: July 2023

The prevalence of metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, continues to increase worldwide. Although newer and more advanced therapies are available, current treatments are still inadequate and the search for solutions remains. The regulation of energy homeostasis, including glucose metabolism, involves an exchange of information between the nervous systems and peripheral organs and tissues; therefore, developing treatments to alter central and/or peripheral neural pathways could be an alternative solution to modulate whole body metabolism. Liver glucose production and storage are major mechanisms controlling glycemia, and the autonomic nervous system plays an important role in the regulation of hepatic functions. Autonomic nervous system imbalance contributes to excessive hepatic glucose production and thus to the development and progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus. At cellular levels, change in neuronal activity is one of the underlying mechanisms of autonomic imbalance; therefore, modulation of the excitability of neurons involved in autonomic outflow governance has the potential to improve glycemic status. Tissue-specific subsets of preautonomic neurons differentially control autonomic outflow; therefore, detailed information about neural circuits and properties of liver-related neurons is necessary for the development of strategies to regulate liver functions via the autonomic nerves. This review provides an overview of our current understanding of the hypothalamus-ventral brainstem-liver pathway involved in the sympathetic regulation of the liver, outlines strategies to identify organ-related neurons, and summarizes neuronal plasticity during diabetic conditions with a particular focus on liver-related neurons in the paraventricular nucleus.
Obstructive nephropathy and molecular pathophysiology of renal interstitial fibrosis
Authors: Nørregaard Rikke , Mutsaers Henricus A. M. , Frøkiær Jørgen , Kwon Tae-Hwan
Published: July 2023

The kidneys play a key role in maintaining total body homeostasis. The complexity of this task is reflected in the unique architecture of the organ. Ureteral obstruction greatly affects renal physiology by altering hemodynamics, changing glomerular filtration and renal metabolism, and inducing architectural malformations of the kidney parenchyma, most importantly renal fibrosis. Persisting pathological changes lead to chronic kidney disease, which currently affects ∼10% of the global population and is one of the major causes of death worldwide. Studies on the consequences of ureteral obstruction date back to the 1800s. Even today, experimental unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) remains the standard model for tubulointerstitial fibrosis. However, the model has certain limitations when it comes to studying tubular injury and repair, as well as a limited potential for human translation. Nevertheless, ureteral obstruction has provided the scientific community with a wealth of knowledge on renal (patho)physiology. With the introduction of advanced omics techniques, the classical UUO model has remained relevant to this day and has been instrumental in understanding renal fibrosis at the molecular, genomic, and cellular levels. This review details key concepts and recent advances in the understanding of obstructive nephropathy, highlighting the pathophysiological hallmarks responsible for the functional and architectural changes induced by ureteral obstruction, with a special emphasis on renal fibrosis.
A Multilevel Framework for Complex Care: A Critical Interpretive Synthesis
Authors: Evans Cara , Abelson Julia , Kates Nick , Cavanagh Alice , Lavis John N.
Published: July 2023

Health systems are poorly equipped to respond to complex health and social needs, which span sectors and diagnoses. This study puts forward a framework for complex care policy. The framework was developed using critical interpretive synthesis, a method for developing theory on the basis of a transparent search and critical analysis of a heterogenous body of the literature. Seventy-three results were included from a systematic search. We suggested that complex needs can be understood as a pattern of unmet needs occurring at the intersection of fragmented health systems and services, multimorbidity, and social marginalization. We proposed a multilevel framework to inform complex care policy design that accounts for each of these issues and their intersections at the individual, service, and system level. We further identified five principles that have relevance at all levels of complex care. Our framework centres clients and their relationships with providers and suggests how services and systems can support client-level interactions. Conceptualizing complex care policy as a multilevel intervention offers a tool for understanding unexpected effects. Further work is needed to test and refine this framework and to contextualize it for particular populations and settings.
Electrical and Thermal Performances of a Single-Pass Double-Flow Photovoltaic-Thermal Collector Coupled with Nonuniform Cross-Section Rib
Authors: Choi Hwi-Ung , Choi Kwang-Hwan
Published: July 2023

The air-based photovoltaic-thermal collector (PVTC) is a system that can generate electricity and heated air simultaneously from solar energy. This study investigates the electrical and thermal performances of an air-based single-pass double-flow photovoltaic-thermal collector (SPDFPVTC) coupled with a nonuniform cross-section rib (NUCSR) under various operating conditions. The rib is installed at the rear of the photovoltaic panel to enhance the heat transfer performance between the photovoltaic panel and the flowing air. Based on the energy balance equations, a mathematical model of the proposed SPDFPVTC is established and validated by experimental results. The solar intensity, air mass flow rate, and wind speed are selected as operating conditions. The effects of these operating conditions on the electrical and thermal performance of the SPDFPVTC have been discussed. In addition, this study evaluates the daily performance of SPDFPVTC with and without NUCSR. The average electrical, thermal, and overall efficiency were 17.59%, 43.96%, and 61.55%, respectively, for SPDFPVTC with NUCSR and 16.97%, 38.87%, and 55.83%, respectively, for SPDFPVTC without NUCSR. Consequently, installing NUCSR could enhance the daily electrical, thermal, and overall energy output of SPDFPVTC by 4.33%, 13.23%, and 10.63%, respectively.
Protease-Activated Receptor-2 and Phospholipid Metabolism Analysis in Hyperuricemia-Induced Renal Injury
Authors: Sui Xiaolu , Xie Tingfei , Xu Yunpeng , Zhang Aisha , Zhang Yanzi , Gu Fengjuan , Li Lixiang , Xu Zibin , Chen Jihong
Published: July 2023

Interstitial inflammation is an important mechanism of pathological damage in renal injury caused by hyperuricemia. Protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR2) is a class of targets that act upstream of the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway and is involved in various inflammatory diseases. We induced a hyperuricemia model in rats by adenine and ethambutol gavage in an in vivo experiment. We demonstrated that PAR2 and PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway expression were significantly upregulated in renal tissues, with massive inflammatory cell infiltration in the renal interstitium and renal tissue injury. Treating hyperuricemic rats with AZ3451, a selective metabotropic antagonist of PAR2, we demonstrated that PAR2 antagonism inhibited the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway and attenuated tubular dilation and tubulointerstitial inflammatory cell infiltration. The phospholipid metabolism profiles provided a perfect separation between the normal and hyperuricemic rats. In addition, we also found that AZ3451 can affect phospholipid metabolism. Our work suggests that PAR2 may mediate hyperuricemia-mediated renal injury by activating the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway. The PAR2 antagonist AZ3451 may be a promising therapeutic strategy for hyperuricemia-induced inflammatory responses.
Evaluation of the Fracture Resistance of Conservative and Ultraconservative Access Cavity Designs with Different Treatment Modalities: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Shirani Farzaneh , saatchi Masoud , Shirani Mehrangiz , Jafari Niloufar
Published: July 2023

Introduction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the fracture resistance of endodontically treated mandibular molars using traditional and conservative access cavity preparation. Materials and Methods. In this in vitro study, 100 extracted healthy human mandibular molars were selected and divided into 10 groups (n = 10). Healthy teeth in one group were considered the control group. In three groups, traditional access cavity preparation was done (groups A) without two marginal ridges (A1), with one marginal ridge (A2), and with two marginal ridges (A3). In three groups (group B), two separate access cavities with a dentinoenamel roof without two marginal ridges (B1), with one marginal ridge (B2), and with two marginal ridges (B3) were prepared. In three other groups (groups C), two separate access cavities were prepared only with a dentinal roof without two marginal ridges (C1), with one marginal ridge (C2), and with two marginal ridges (C3), on which root canal treatment was performed afterward. Then, these teeth were subjected to force until fracture. The fracture force and fracture mode of each tooth were recorded and compared between groups by ANOVA, Tukey’s post hoc, and chi‐square tests using SPSS ver. 23 (IBM, Somers, NJ, USA). Results. The control teeth had the highest mean fracture force (2804.5 ± 338.5 N), followed by a conservative access cavity with a dentinoenamel roof and two marginal ridges (2360.4 ± 181.72 N) and a conservative access cavity with a dentinoenamel roof and one marginal ridge (1812.8 ± 263.9 N), respectively. The lowest mean fracture force was found for the conventional access cavity group without two marginal ridges (399.4 ± 95.2 N). Conclusion. In the condition of this study, with two separate access cavities in mandibular molars and maintenance of the marginal ridges, it is possible to provide teeth with higher fracture resistance against occlusal forces.
A Comparative Analysis of the Flavor, Aroma, and Compositions in Three Levels of Stir-Frying Cyperus rotundus Using E-Tongue, E-Nose, and HS-GC-MS
Authors: Wang Fengxia , Qian Qi , Ma Hanyu , Feng Yu , Hu Jingnan , Li Baolin , Niu Liying , Wang Xinguo
Published: July 2023

Cyperus rotundus (CR) is the dry rhizome of the Cyperaceae plant Cyperus, which is widely used in food processing, such as curry, pickling spices, and baking goods, as well as medicinally after stir-frying. The level of stir-frying (slightly stir-frying, stir-frying yellow, and stir-frying black) has a direct impact on the flavor, aroma, and pharmacological effects of the food. However, the distinctions between various levels of stir-frying have not been studied. The purpose of this study was to develop a method that combines electronic tongue, electronic nose, and HS-GC-MS to elucidate the flavor and aroma differences between three types of stir-fried CR and to identify aroma difference components. As the degree of stir-frying increased, the sweet, bitter, astringent, and umami flavors of the sf-CR diminished while the aroma intensified. Among the 33 differential compounds, pyrazines, D-limonene, camphene, trans-verbenol, and ponocarvone were the most significant aroma-causing components. This method effectively differentiates the three levels of sf-CR and provides a foundation for the use of sf-CR in food processing and pharmaceutical applications.
Early Prediction of Epilepsy after Encephalitis in Childhood Based on EEG and Clinical Features
Authors: Sun Xiaojuan , Zhao Jinhua , Guo Chunyun , Zhu Xiaoxiao
Published: July 2023

Objective. The present study was designed to establish and evaluate an early prediction model of epilepsy after encephalitis in childhood based on electroencephalogram (ECG) and clinical features. Methods. 255 patients with encephalitis were randomly divided into training and verification sets and were divided into postencephalitic epilepsy (PE) and no postencephalitic epilepsy (no-PE) according to whether epilepsy occurred one year after discharge. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to screen the risk factors for PE. The identified risk factors were used to establish and verify a model. Results. This study included 255 patients with encephalitis, including 209 in the non-PE group and 46 in the PE group. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analysis showed that hemoglobin (OR = 0.968, 95% CI = 0.951–0.958), epilepsy frequency (OR = 0.968, 95% CI = 0.951–0.958), and ECG slow wave/fast wave frequency (S/F) in the occipital region were independent influencing factors for PE (P<0.05).The prediction model is based on the above factors: −0.031 × hemoglobin −2.113 × epilepsy frequency + 7.836 × occipital region S/F + 1.595. In the training set and the validation set, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the model for the diagnosis of PE was 0.835 and 0.712, respectively. Conclusion. The peripheral blood hemoglobin, the number of epileptic seizures in the acute stage of encephalitis, and EEG slow wave/fast wave frequencies can be used as predictors of epilepsy after encephalitis.
Effects of Dietary Fish Meal Replacement with Alternative Protein Ingredients and Their Combinations on Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Fillet Composition, and Biochemical Parameters of Red Seabream (Pagrus major)
Authors: Gunathilaka Buddhi E. , Jeong Seong-Mok , Cho Min-Uk , Kim Kang-Woong , Hur Sang-Woo , Lee Seunghan , You Sang-Guan , Lee Sang-Min
Published: July 2023

The experiment was conducted to evaluate alternative protein ingredients in a low-fish meal (FM) diet for red seabream (Pagrus major). Twelve experimental diets were formulated. Control diet (CON) was designed to contain 60% FM. Other experimental diets were formulated by replacing 50% of FM from the CON with soy protein concentrate (SPC), corn gluten (CG), meat meal (MM), and/or chicken byproduct meal (CBM). Four diets were designed including one of SPC, CG, MM, or CBM as FM replacer and designated as SPC, CG, MM, and CBM. Six other diets were formulated by adding two ingredients as SPC and CG, SPC and MM, SPC and CBM, CG and MM, CG and CBM, or MM and CBM, and designated as SCG, SMM, SCM, CMM, CCM, and MCM, respectively. The 12th diet (MIX) was formulated by including SPC, CGM, MM, and CBM. Triplicate fish groups (50.2 ± 0.1 g) were hand-fed for 12 weeks. Weight gain (WG) of fish was significantly improved by MM and MCM diets compared to CG, SCG, CMM, and CCM diets. WG of CON, SPC, CM, SMM, SCM, and MIX groups were comparable with MM and MCM groups. The lowest WG was observed in CG and CMM groups. Feed efficiency (FE) was significantly higher in MM group compared to SPC, CG, SGC, and CMC groups. FE of MCM group was significantly higher than CG and SCG groups. Fillet linolenic acid (C18:2n–6) level in CG group was significantly higher than CON, MM, CM, SCM, CCM, and MCM groups. Serum lysozyme activity was significantly higher in MCM and MIX groups. Therefore, a high level of dietary CG reduces the growth performance and feed utilization of red seabream. A mixture of MM and CBM seems to be more efficient in replacing FM from red seabream diet.
Flying Syringes for Emerging Enzootic Virus Screening: Proof of Concept for the Development of Noninvasive Xenosurveillance Tools Based on Tsetse Flies
Authors: Valente Adeline , Jiolle Davy , Ravel Sophie , Porciani Angélique , Vial Laurence , Michaud Vincent , Kwiatek Olivier , Pedarrieu Aurélie , Misse Dorothée , Ferraris Pauline , Bretagnolle François , Bitome-Essono Paul-Yannick , Makanga Boris Kevin , Rougeron Virginie , Prugnolle Franck , Paupy Christophe
Published: July 2023

Pathogen transfers between wild and domestic animals and between animals and humans are increasing. Their dramatic consequences for public and veterinary health as well as for conservation call for innovative and user-friendly methods for pathogen surveillance in wildlife. Xenosurveillance, a method based on the use of invertebrates (e.g., mosquitoes, hematophagous flies, leeches, cadaveric arthropods) to sample animal tissues (e.g., blood) and the associated pathogens, is one of these tools. Previously, we demonstrated that hematophagous flies, such as tsetse flies, could be useful to detect and identify the etiological agents of malaria in a diverse range of mammals in Gabon. However, we did not assess whether this method can be also used to detect viruses. In the present study, we experimentally fed tsetse flies (Glossina fuscipes fuscipes) rabbit blood containing different viruses of medical or veterinary importance (Zika, Dengue, Chikungunya, African swine fever, Bluetongue, and peste des petits ruminants viruses). Then, we used quantitative PCR (i) to determine for how long viral nucleic acid fragments remained detectable in the tsetse midgut during blood digestion and (ii) to compare two blood meal preservation methods (i.e., FTA cards and RNAlater solution) tested using tsetse flies engorged with blood and dengue-2 virus. All viruses remained detectable for 6 days after feeding, although the detection probability significantly decreased over time. FTA cards and RNAlater solution gave similar results in terms of virus detection. Our results demonstrate that xenosurveillance using blood-engorged tsetse flies is a valuable tool to track and survey viruses in wildlife in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Recurrent Peri-Clitoral Abscess with Positive Actinomyces turicensis Culture
Authors: Palacios Diana , Wallace Huff Cristina
Published: July 2023

A peri-clitoral abscess is a condition that is seldom encountered in practice and is found scarcely in the literature. The cause of spontaneous peri-clitoral abscess not associated with female circumcision/genital mutilation is generally unknown. Additionally, there have been no case reports of positive Actinomyces culture at the time of drainage of a peri-clitoral abscess. This case outlines a 42-year-old female with a spontaneous peri-clitoral abscess. The abscess was initially treated with incision and drainage (I&D) and antibiotics, but it later reoccurred necessitating a second I&D with bedside marsupialization and antibiotics targeted at Actinomyces, which grew on the culture after primary I&D.
Reliability and Validity of the Indonesian Version of the McCloskey/Mueller Satisfaction Scale
Authors: Juanamasta I. Gede , Aungsuroch Yupin , Fisher Mary L. , Nursalam
Published: July 2023

Aim. To examine the reliability and validity of the Indonesian translation of the McCloskey/Mueller Satisfaction Scale. Background. The McCloskey/Mueller Satisfaction Scale is an instrument to measure nurses’ feelings about their job. Although the instrument has existed for a long time, there has been a lack of studies using this questionnaire in Indonesia due to the limitation of instrument validation in the Indonesian version. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the validation and reliability of the instrument. Methods. The instrument was validated with a cross-sectional study of 350 nurses. For purposes of transcultural adaptation and psychometric validation, a forward-back translation strategy was used in conjunction with an expert panel and a cross-sectional study. The validity of the construct was verified using confirmatory factor analysis, and the overall fit of the model was measured using the calculated fit indices. The standard deviation of the extracted variance was used to evaluate the convergence validity. Composite reliability and Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were used to investigate the internal consistency of the study. Results. According to the results of the reverse translation, the Indonesian and original instruments are statistically indistinguishable. As a result of the confirmatory factor analysis, it was determined that the Indonesian version of the McCloskey/Mueller Satisfaction Scale adhered closely to the original structure of the English version. The convergence validity of the construct (0.44–0.74), reliability (Cronbach α = 0.69–0.93), and internal consistency (0.49–0.79) were rated highly. Conclusions. Good homogeneity and construct validity have been shown for the Indonesian translation of the McCloskey/Mueller Satisfaction Scale in the context of healthcare practice and research. Implications for Nursing Management. Nursing policymakers in Indonesia can use the instrument to inform the development of practice policies aimed at improving job satisfaction among nurses in the country.