bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A National Survey of Pharmacist Involvement in Hepatitis C Virus Management in the United States
Authors: Martin Michelle T. , Hietpas Allison R. , Novak Jennifer L. , Deming Paulina
Published: October 2024

Models estimate that the United States will not meet its 2030 hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination goal. Engagement of healthcare providers including pharmacists is critical for HCV elimination efforts. We aimed to characterise the involvement of pharmacists in HCV management. The study design was a cross‐sectional survey. Investigators sent the questionnaire to pharmacy and HCV organisations' listservs and limited responses to licensed pharmacists with direct patient care. Questions assessed setting, HCV screening, prescribing, and management; and opinions, and perceived barriers and facilitators to pharmacists' HCV management. Two hundred and nine survey respondents across 45 states reported managing 24 patients/month, with 5.3 (±4.4) years' experience in HCV, and identified pharmacist‐managed HCV at their site since 2013 (±5.8 years). Most practice at academic medical centres (29%, 58/203) under collaborative practice agreements (67%, 127/189), as ambulatory care pharmacists (70%, 131/187), in primary care (50%, 65/131). Many pharmacists provide screening, linkage to care, and/or referral (81%, 157/194); 99.5% (190/191) perform treatment evaluation and selection; 98% (180/183) provide treatment education, 93% (171/183) initiate treatment, and 90% (162/180) provide on‐ and/or post‐treatment monitoring. Respondents indicated collaboration with prescribers as most helpful in their role in HCV management, whereas lack of reimbursement was a main barrier. Satisfying components include HCV cure, care and education provision; frustrations include socioeconomic factors impeding patients' follow‐up and prior authorisations/insurance barriers. Survey results show the variety of pharmacists' roles in direct HCV patient care and may be used to increase other providers' awareness of pharmacists' services and contributions to HCV elimination efforts.
Preventing technique‐related complications in spinal cord stimulation trials: The Dural Substitute Confetti technique. A retrospective monocentric analysis
Authors: Dario Alessandro , Ferlendis Luca , Bossi Bianca , Locatelli Davide
Published: October 2024

Background

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is an established therapy for chronic pain, employing screening trials to identify suitable candidates before implantation. However, complications arising from both technique and medical factors present challenges to this practice. This study introduces the Dural Substitute Confetti technique, which addresses technique‐related complications during SCS implantation by preventing scar‐induced lead migration or breakage and reducing operating times.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis on 174 patients treated with SCS trials from 2017 to 2022 at our institution. Of these, 85.1% proceeded to permanent implantation. During trial surgery, synthetic dural substitutes (DS) were used to protect leads, which remained connected to an external pulse generator (EPG) for 20–28 days (mean 21.4 days). Utilizing the DS Confetti technique, leads were easily dissected from the DS during the second surgery and connected to an internal pulse generator (IPG). We compared complications and surgical times before and after the introduction of this technique in 2017.

Results

Following the complete SCS trial, patients experienced over 50% pain relief, with an implant‐to‐trial ratio of 85.1% and a mean follow‐up of 52 months. No technique‐related complications occurred during the trial period post‐2017, while the pre‐2017 group had a 3.9% lead migration rate due to scarring, necessitating re‐implantation. The average surgery duration decreased from 54 min pre‐2017 to 32 min post‐2017. Medical‐related complications included infections (2.1%) and wound dehiscence (1.3%).

Conclusions

The DS Confetti technique prevents scar adhesion formation during screening trials, thereby facilitating and expediting the definitive SCS implantation. Additionally, it may also reduce the risk of lead migration and iatrogenic damage, potentially lowering technique‐related complications.
Safety and efficacy of long‐term use of a buprenorphine transdermal patch system in patients with osteoarthritis and low back pain refractory to non‐opioid analgesics: Post‐marketing surveillance of 3000 cases
Authors: Ushida Takahiro , Kanzaki Rumiko , Katayama Keishi , Ishikawa Akito
Published: October 2024

Objectives

A post‐marketing surveillance was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the buprenorphine transdermal patch under actual clinical practice.

Results

Of the 3017 patients included in the safety analysis, adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were observed in 1524 (50.5%), the most common being nausea, skin symptoms at the site of application, constipation, and vomiting. The incidences of respiratory depression and withdrawal symptoms were low, and no drug dependence was observed. Among the 2573 patients included in the efficacy analysis, the efficacy (≥2‐point improvement in the numerical rating scale) rate was 74.4%, which was significantly higher in older adults (≥65 y.o) than in younger adults. Discontinuation was mostly caused by ADRs during the early initiation phase.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the safety and efficacy of long‐term administration of buprenorphine transdermal patches, suggesting that pain control is possible over the long term if attention is paid to ADRs in the early stages of administration.
Modification of xylan in secondary walls alters cell wall biosynthesis and wood formation programs and improves saccharification
Authors: Sivan Pramod , Urbancsok János , Donev Evgeniy N. , Derba‐Maceluch Marta , Barbut Félix R. , Yassin Zakiya , Gandla Madhavi L. , Mitra Madhusree , Heinonen Saara E. , Šimura Jan , Cermanová Kateřina , Karady Michal , Scheepers Gerhard , Jönsson Leif J. , Master Emma R. , Vilaplana Francisco , Mellerowicz Ewa J.
Published: October 2024

Wood of broad‐leaf tree species is a valued source of renewable biomass for biorefinery and a target for genetic improvement efforts to reduce its recalcitrance. Glucuronoxylan (GX) plays a key role in recalcitrance through its interactions with cellulose and lignin. To reduce recalcitrance, we modified wood GX by expressing GH10 and GH11 endoxylanases from Aspergillus nidulans in hybrid aspen (Populus tremula L. × tremuloides Michx.) and targeting the enzymes to cell wall. The xylanases reduced tree height, modified cambial activity by increasing phloem and reducing xylem production, and reduced secondary wall deposition. Xylan molecular weight was decreased, and the spacing between acetyl and MeGlcA side chains was reduced in transgenic lines. The transgenic trees produced hypolignified xylem having thin secondary walls and deformed vessels. Glucose yields of enzymatic saccharification without pretreatment almost doubled indicating decreased recalcitrance. The transcriptomics, hormonomics and metabolomics data provided evidence for activation of cytokinin and ethylene signalling pathways, decrease in ABA levels, transcriptional suppression of lignification and a subset of secondary wall biosynthetic program, including xylan glucuronidation and acetylation machinery. Several candidate genes for perception of impairment in xylan integrity were detected. These candidates could provide a new target for uncoupling negative growth effects from reduced recalcitrance. In conclusion, our study supports the hypothesis that xylan modification generates intrinsic signals and evokes novel pathways regulating tree growth and secondary wall biosynthesis.
Understanding friendship
Authors: Croce Michel , Jope Matthew
Published: October 2024

This article takes issue with two prominent views in the current debate around epistemic partiality in friendship. Strong views of epistemic partiality hold that friendship may require biased beliefs in direct conflict with epistemic norms. Weak views hold that friendship may place normative expectations on belief formation but in a manner that does not violate these norms. It is argued that neither view succeeds in explaining the relationship between epistemic norms and friendship norms. Weak views inadvertently endorse a form of motivated reasoning, failing to resolve the normative clash they seek to avoid. Strong views turn out to be incoherent once we consider the question of whether the requirement to form an epistemically partial belief is independent of whether the belief in question would be true. It is then argued that an epistemology of friendship should recognise the special role that understanding plays in friendship. On this view, friendship normatively requires understanding the truth about our friends. This entails that epistemic partiality, far from being a requirement, is in fact at odds with good friendship.
Is there a role for chest wall mobilization in the management of COPD?
Authors: Lee Annemarie L. , Spencer Lissa M.
Published: October 2024

See related article
Foetal Microchimerism Correlates With Foetal‐Maternal Histocompatibility Both During Pregnancy and Postpartum
Authors: Staff Anne Cathrine , Fjeldstad Heidi E. , Olsen Maria B. , Øgaard Jonas , Viken Marte K. , Kramer Cynthia S. M. , Eikmans Michael , Kroneis Thomas , Sallinger Katja , Kanaan Sami B. , Sugulle Meryam , Jacobsen Daniel P.
Published: October 2024

Foetal cells are detectable in women decades postpartum, a state termed foetal microchimerism. The interplay between these semi‐allogeneic foetal cells and the mother could be affected by genetic mismatches in the HLA loci. Here, we relate HLA allele and molecular mismatch values to the presence and quantity of foetal microchimerism in the maternal circulation during pregnancy and postpartum. A total of 76 pregnant women were included, of which 59 were followed up 1–8 years postpartum. Maternal and foetal DNA was genotyped for HLA class I and II loci. Foetal cells in maternal buffy coat were detected by qPCR, targeting inherited paternal alleles. Antibody‐verified eplet mismatch and Predicted Indirectly Recognisable HLA Epitopes (PIRCHE) scores were calculated to quantify foetal‐maternal histocompatibility from the mother's perspective. Circulating foetal cells were detected in 50.0% (38/76) of women during pregnancy, and 25.4% (15/59) postpartum. During pregnancy, HLA class II antibody‐verified eplet mismatch load and PIRCHE scores correlated negatively with the presence and quantity of foetal cells in the maternal circulation. Postpartum, HLA class I allele mismatches correlated negatively with foetal microchimerism presence, while HLA class II allele mismatches, HLA class I and II antibody‐verified eplet mismatch load, and PIRCHE‐I and PIRCHE‐II scores correlated negatively with both microchimerism presence and quantity. The correlation between mismatch parameters aimed at evaluating the risk of humoral and T cell‐mediated allorecognition and foetal microchimerism was more evident postpartum than during pregnancy. The observed predictive effect of foetal‐maternal histocompatibility on foetal microchimerism suggests that circulating foetal cells are subject to clearance by the maternal immune system. We propose that allorecognition of foetal cells in the maternal circulation and tissues influences any long‐term effect that foetal microchimerism may have on maternal health.
Peptide Sharing Between CMV and Mismatched HLA Class I Peptides Promotes Early T‐Cell‐Mediated Rejection After Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Peereboom Emma T. M. , de Marco Renato , Geneugelijk Kirsten , Jairam Jasvir , Verduyn Lunel Frans M. , Blok Anna J. , Medina‐Pestana José , Gerbase‐DeLima Maria , van Zuilen Arjan D. , Spierings Eric
Published: October 2024

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is related to acute rejection and graft loss after kidney transplantation, though the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. Some CMV strains produce a peptide that is identical to a peptide sequence found in the leader peptide of specific HLA‐A and ‐C alleles. In this retrospective study of 351 kidney transplantations, we explored whether CMV‐seropositive recipients without the VMAPRTLIL, VMAPRTLLL or VMAPRTLVL HLA class I leader peptide receiving a transplant from a donor with this peptide, faced an increased risk of T‐cell‐mediated rejection (TCMR) in the first 90 days after transplantation. An independent case–control cohort was used for validation (n = 122). The combination of recipient CMV seropositivity with the VMAPRTLIL peptide mismatch was associated with TCMR with a hazard ratio (HR) of 3.06 (p = 0.001) in a multivariable analysis. Similarly, the VMAPRTLLL peptide mismatch was associated with TCMR revealing a HR of 2.61 (p = 0.008). Transplantations featuring either a VMAPRTLIL or a VMAPRTLLL peptide mismatch had a significantly higher cumulative TCMR incidence (p < 0.0001), with the primary impact observed in the first 2 weeks post‐transplantation. The findings could be validated in an independent cohort. Together, our data strongly suggest that CMV‐positive recipients without an HLA peptide identical to a CMV peptide yet transplanted with a donor who does possess this peptide, have a significantly increased risk of early TCMR. Considering the prevention of such an leader peptide mismatch in these patients or adjusting immunosuppression protocols accordingly may hold promise in reducing the incidence of early TCMR.
Quality of life in people with sickle cell disease treated with automated red blood cell exchange
Authors: Dierick Koenraad , Rodriguez‐Grande Beatriz , Navarro‐Aragall Ariadna‐Gador , Beraud Mickael
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives

This review aims to explore the impact of sickle cell disease (SCD) on patients' quality of life (QoL) and the effectiveness of different transfusion modalities, particularly automated red blood cell exchange (aRBCX), in managing the factors that impact QoL.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search was performed in PubMed to retrieve articles with data on QoL in SCD patients treated with aRBCX during the last 20 years. A targeted search for medical guidelines and a free search were added.

Results

When assessing the impact of the transfusion modality on the QoL of patients with SCD, some studies indicated an improvement in health‐related QoL when using aRBCX while others reported no differences. The benefits of aRBCX include a decrease in length of hospital stay, pain‐related hospitalizations and procedure time. The drawbacks of aRBCX were also identified, including an increased number of procedure‐related complications (despite the overall number of complications showing no significant differences) and a more complex vascular access. Chronic red blood cell exchange favours psychosocial factors such as anxiety and social functioning, but the impact of using aRBCX in these parameters is not determined yet.

Conclusion

aRBCX, known to be an efficient procedure to manage SCD, appears to be promising in improving patients' QoL. However, more comprehensive studies incorporating patient‐reported outcomes are needed to fully understand the impact of different transfusion modalities on QoL in SCD patients. An integrated care approach, including psychological support and pain management, may further enhance QoL.
Association of fracture gap with implant failure in radius and ulna fractures in toy breed dogs—A multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Korchek Kate A. , Kim Sun Young , Chou Po‐Yen , Kapatkin Amy S. , Hayashi Kei
Published: October 2024

Objective

To assess the impact of a postoperative fracture gap on implant failure following radius and ulna fracture repair in toy breed dogs.

Study design

Retrospective multicenter cohort study.

Animals

A total of 80 client‐owned toy breed dogs.

Methods

Medical records and radiographs were reviewed for dogs <3.5 kg that had surgical repair of simple transverse radius and ulna fractures at four institutions from 2005 to 2019. Data collected included signalment, fracture location, implant types and thickness, plate working length, evidence of a postoperative fracture gap in the caudal cortex, postoperative care, occurrence of implant failure, and other complications. The association between potential risk factors and complications was examined using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

A postoperative fracture gap in the caudal cortex was noted in 37 cases, and 10 cases experienced implant failure. Of the 43 cases without a gap, one case experienced implant failure. After adjusting for other variables, the fracture gap was significantly associated with implant failure (odds ratio = 23.0 [95% confidence interval: 2.7; 197.9], p = .004). Prolonged external coaptation was associated with minor and major complications other than implant failure (p = .04), while the absence of coaptation confounded the effects of the fracture gap on implant failure.

Conclusion and clinical significance

Reduction of the caudal cortex of the radius is imperative to promote bone healing and prevent implant failure in transverse radius and ulna fractures of toy breed dogs.
Design, Evaluation, and Implementation of a Novel Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Compatible Physiologic Loading Simulator for Ex-Vivo Joints
Authors: Espinosa Maldonado Alvaro A. , Dolovich Allan T. , Johnston James D. , McWalter Emily J.
Published: October 2024

Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI), in combination with mechanical testing, offers potential to investigate how loading (e.g., from daily physical exercise) is related to joint and tissue function. However, current testing devices compatible with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are often limited to uniaxial compression, often applying low loads, or loading individual tissues (instead of multiple), while more complex simulators do not facilitate MRI. Hence, in this work, we designed, built and tested (N = 1) an MRI-compatible multi-axial load-control system, which enables scanning cadaveric joints (healthy or pathologic) loaded to physiologically relevant levels. Testing involved estimating and validating physiologic loading conditions before implementing them experimentally on cadaver knees to simulate and image gait loading (stance and swing). The resulting design consisted of a portable loading device featuring pneumatic actuators to reach a combined loading scenario, including axial compression (≤2.5 kN), shear (≤1 kN), bending (≤30 N·m) and muscle tension. Initial laboratory testing was carried out; specifically, the device was instrumented with force and pressure sensors to evaluate loading and contact response repeatability in one cadaver knee specimen. This loading system was able to simulate healthy or pathologic gait with reasonable repeatability (e.g., 1.23–2.91% coefficient of variation for axial compression), comparable to current state-of-the-art simulators, leading to generally consistent contact responses. Contact measurements demonstrated a tibiofemoral to patellofemoral load transfer with knee flexion and large contact pressures concentrated over small sites between the femoral cartilage and menisci, agreeing with experimental studies and numerical simulations in the literature.
Enhancing Total Temperature Measurement Accuracy: Calibration Procedures and Novel Two-Wire Probes
Authors: Sánchez de la Rosa Diego , Paniagua Guillermo
Published: October 2024

Total temperature measurement with thermocouple probes suffers from errors due to heat transfer effects. Two dominant sources of errors are convection and conduction between the thermocouple, the support, and the flow. These effects can be treated in two different categories: the velocity error, created by convection from the internal flow velocity in the probe shield, and the conduction error, involving heat transfer through the wire to the shield and the probe stem due to temperature differences between each component. This article presents a robust approach to experimentally assess and reduce both errors. An open jet test stand at the Purdue Experimental Turbine Aerothermal Laboratory is used to evaluate the effects of the velocity error at various Mach numbers. Infrared (IR) thermography measurements have been conducted to assess temperature gradients on the probe support during this calibration. With this information, it is possible to correct for conduction errors during the calibration and obtain a recovery factor that is solely dependent on upstream velocity. Recovery factor of 0.94±0.05 for Mach 0.2 and 0.98±0.005 for Mach 0.9 is obtained. Progress has been made on a two-wire thermocouple approach to address conduction errors in the testing scenario, where IR thermography is not possible. The readings from two wires with different length-to-diameter ratios are used with a novel linear correction method to correct for the flow total temperature. Advances in the design and manufacturing of the probe are presented, facilitating faster design iterations and implementation, and providing full control over the calibration procedures. This method can correct conduction errors within 0.2 K for Mach 0.6.
Powder Compaction Characteristics and Modeling of Calendering Process for Powder-Based Solvent-Free Manufacturing of Electrodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Gong Xiangtao , Gao Zhongjia , Wu Kai Jen , Fu Jinzhao , Wang Yan , Pan Heng
Published: October 2024

Powder-based solvent-free manufacturing of electrodes for Li-ion batteries represents an emerging and promising technology in electrode fabrication. This method involves a two-roll powder calendering process, where electrode powder materials are compressed onto a current collector to form electrodes with desired properties. The calendering or compaction of dry powders onto a current collector is a crucial step in solvent-free electrode manufacturing, significantly impacting the microstructures, mechanical properties, and electrochemical performance of the produced electrodes. In this article, we investigate the compaction characteristics of electrode powders to gain insights into their behavior. A powder-on-current collector calendering model is developed based on Johanson's rolling theory of granular solids. This model enables us to infer the underlying calendering parameters essential for the solvent-free manufacturing of Li-ion batteries. To validate the model, we compare it with experimental calendering results, utilizing measured powder properties and roll design parameters as inputs. This approach offers a comprehensive understanding of the effects of roll geometries, particularly roll diameter, and various equipment design parameters on final electrode properties. Such insights have not been thoroughly explored in the emerging field of solvent-free battery electrode manufacturing, thereby contributing to advancements in this area.
Generalized SmartScan: An Intelligent LPBF Scan Sequence Optimization Approach for Reduced Residual Stress and Distortion in Three-Dimensional Part Geometries
Authors: He Chuan , Wood Nathaniel , Bugdayci Nevzat Bircan , Okwudire Chinedum
Published: October 2024

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is an additive manufacturing technique that is gaining popularity for producing metallic parts in various industries. However, parts produced by LPBF are prone to residual stress, deformation, cracks, and other quality defects due to uneven temperature distribution during the LPBF process. To address this issue, in prior work, the authors have proposed SmartScan, a method for determining laser scan sequence in LPBF using an intelligent (i.e., model-based and optimization-driven) approach, rather than using heuristics, and applied it to simple 2D geometries. This paper presents a generalized SmartScan methodology that is applicable to arbitrary 3D geometries. This is achieved by (1) expanding the thermal model and optimization approach used in SmartScan to multiple layers, (2) enabling SmartScan to process shapes with arbitrary contours and infill patterns within each layer, (3) providing the optimization in SmartScan with a balance of exploration and exploitation to make it less myopic, and (4) improving SmartScan’s computational efficiency via model order reduction using singular value decomposition. Sample 3D test artifacts are simulated and printed using SmartScan in comparison with common heuristic scan sequences. Reductions of up to 92% in temperature inhomogeneity, 86% in residual stress, 24% in maximum deformation, and 50% in geometric inaccuracy were observed using SmartScan, without significantly sacrificing print speed. An approach for using SmartScan for printing complex 3D parts in practice, by integrating it as a plug-in to a commercial slicing software, was also demonstrated experimentally, along with its benefits in significantly improving printed part quality.
A Review on Metallic Drilling Burrs: Geometry, Formation, and Effect on the Mechanical Strength of Metallic Assemblies
Authors: Frutos Taravillo Santiago , Paroissien Eric , Landon Yann , Schwartz Sébastien , Fressinet Mathieu , Chirol Clément
Published: October 2024

Machining processes produce unwanted remainders of material on the free edges which are called burrs. In particular, the drilling process generates an entry burr and a typically larger exit burr. When drilling stacks of several workpieces, exit and entry burrs are produced simultaneously at the interfaces. The presence of burrs can degrade the static and fatigue strength of the parts and assemblies containing them. An example concerns the burrs formed at the interface during the drilling of multistacks in One-Way-Assembly processes, where deburring is not systematically applied. The effect on fatigue can be significant. Reductions of up to 70% in fatigue life have been reported, even though the explanatory rationale is not clear. This article reviews existing works on burrs, focusing on drilling burrs. A description of the morphology of different types of burrs and of measurement technologies is given. Burr formation mechanisms and their modeling are reviewed. Burr control strategies and the main deburring technologies are examined. The limited literature on the effects of burrs on the static and fatigue strength of mechanical assemblies is also explored.
Automated Weld Path Generation in Cluttered Environments Using Segmentation and Iterative Closest Point Workpiece Localization
Authors: Hill Tristan , Yoon Hyung-Jin , Canfield Stephen
Published: October 2024

A significant amount of manufacturing is performed by small to medium enterprises (SMEs), but these manufacturers often have lower adoption rates of automation. The cost and complexity associated with traditional robot systems slow the adoption of robotic welding operations for SMEs. The recent increase in collaborative robotic welding systems is bridging the gap, however, by reducing the complexity of installing, maintaining, and training operators to perform weld operations with collaborative robotics. These systems add flexibility in the range of operator use and ease of deployment. These systems however still rely on kinematic registration between the robot-mounted torch and workpiece on any open-loop weld. This requires precise placement of the workpiece prior to performing a weld. This work will discuss a method for part identification and registration in a welding task as a step toward automated weld path generation. The method is based on lower-resolution 3D cameras (RGBD cameras) using a combination of color and depth information. This information is used to both identify the workpiece within a workspace that may have other, non-workpiece items, and then provide registration or localization information of the workpiece within a resolution that could allow follow-on near-position strategies to achieve final weld path identification.
Computational Investigation of the Operating Mechanism of the Ranque–Hilsch Vortex Tube
Authors: Fuqua Matthew N. , Rutledge James L.
Published: October 2024

The Ranque–Hilsch vortex tube is a device that splits an incoming flow into two outgoing streams, but with the peculiar property that one stream exits at a lower total temperature than the incoming flow and the other at a higher total temperature. This temperature separation is accomplished without any moving parts, electronics or external power supplied to the device. Despite the passage of nearly a century since discovery of the effect, there remains a dearth of understanding regarding the mechanism responsible for the phenomenon. In fact, the literature contains competing theories with little evidence providing support. A promising technique to discern the responsible mechanisms for the energy transfer from the ultimately cold stream to the ultimately hot stream is to define a stream tube in a computational simulation of the flow that propagates upstream from the exits such that the stream tube interface separates the hot flow from the cold flow. In this article, we apply this method to a three-dimensional, full-volume analysis of the flow within a vortex tube using a computational simulation that was thoroughly validated against experiments on a physical replica of the computational geometry. In this novel study, the integral form of the energy equation was used to quantify all forms of the energy transfer within the vortex tube. The results demonstrate that the phenomenon of temperature separation is attributable primarily to viscous work in the radial direction due to the circumferential flow, with a lesser contribution from heat transfer in the radial direction.
Impact of Efficiency Calculation Methods on the Adoption of Energy Storage Technologies
Authors: Singh Aanya , Swaminathan Nedunchezhian
Published: October 2024

An essential parameter in the performance of energy storage systems is their round-trip efficiency. Batteries are the reigning energy storage option globally and, are believed to be the primary competition to green hydrogen energy storage in terms of system economics. For lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, two different round-trip efficiency calculation methods were observed i.e., constant efficiency and yearly repeating efficiency in existing literature and professional photovoltaic (PV) designing softwares respectively. Unfortunately, both do not follow the practical scenario. Therefore, a degradation trend shifting method was used to analyse the round-trip efficiency over 10 years of an LFP battery system associated with a 5MW solar PV plant. The primary performance simulation for this method was done using PVsyst. The calculated round-trip efficiencies and the investment cost for the storage systems were then used to calculate the levelized cost of storage (LCOS). The LCOS for the three efficiency trends in batteries was also compared with the LCOS of a green hydrogen energy storage to get an idea about how the differences in the relative system economics affects the perception of an energy storage system. The results indicate that for the constant efficiency and yearly repeating efficiency methods, the difference in the LCOS between batteries and green hydrogen is large. However, for the proposed trend shifting method, the LCOS after 10 years for batteries is slightly less than green hydrogen and after 20 years the LCOS for hydrogen and batteries is comparable.
Are Self-Sustainable Communities Economically Viable?: A Financial Analysis of Self-Sustainable Communities
Authors: Manthena Pranava , Singh Gopal
Published: October 2024

Sustainable energy is the new hot topic, and with it comes the conversation of self-sustainable communities. Society is currently neck deep in carbon emissions and pollution, and our current generation is constantly looking for solutions that can reduce our carbon footprint. The housing market is also experiencing a major price hike, with more than 80% of metro areas witnessing home prices increase in the last year. These major problems necessitate a solution, and fast. The most popular solution to these global issues is self-sustaining communities. Self-sustainable communities are groups of localized people off the grid that strive to meet the necessities required for survival (food, water, shelter, energy, etc.) without having to rely on external sources. These communities are able to fully thrive by themselves without the need for any outside intervention. Self-sustainable communities have long been seen as the best way to achieve sustainable, affordable living due to the long-term benefits that they can provide. However, are these communities economically viable in the short term? In this paper, we aim to unveil the curtains on the short-term economic viability and impact of self-sustained communities. We offer a deep analysis of the business aspects that go into creating a self-sustaining community, including cost breakdowns, sharing economy models, and market analysis. We conclude with whether or not self-sustained communities are economically viable in the short run, and also provide ways to fix or enhance potential problems with self-sustaining communities. Our hope is to expose the economical side of developing a self-sustaining community and inform the general public on what could potentially be the best solution to our current climate change crisis and housing deficit.
Preparation and activity evaluation of zinc ion delivery system based on fucoidan–zinc complex
Authors: Zhou Zhongxiang , Ding Yu , Cai Rui , Ning Changxu , Zhang Jiangye , Guo Xiuhan
Published: October 2024

Zinc is a critical trace element in the human body, playing a key role in regulating various protein functions and cellular metabolism. Thus, maintaining zinc homeostasis is essential for human health, as zinc deficiency can directly contribute to the onset of numerous diseases. Effective supplementation with zinc ions offers a viable treatment for zinc deficiency. Polysaccharides, particularly natural polysaccharides, exhibit extensive physiological activities and serve as efficient systems for delivering zinc ions. Fucoidan (F) is an affordable, widely available polysaccharide with significant bioactivity and safety, attracting growing research interest. However, most studies focus on its physiological functions, while few explore the structure and effects of fucoidan–metal complexes. In this study, fucoidan (F) was chosen to complex with Zn2+ to form the fucoidan–zinc (F–Zn) complex, whose structure was characterized. The zinc ion content reached 9.15%, with zinc (II) predominantly complexed with sulfate groups in the F–Zn (II) complex. Evaluation demonstrated that the prepared fucoidan–zinc system, at a concentration of 110 μg/ml, exhibited no significant cytotoxicity toward HT22 cells. Furthermore, both F and F–Zn exhibited significant neuroprotective effects in an HT22 cell model induced by cisplatin. Additional investigations revealed that F and F–Zn could mitigate cisplatin-induced increases in reactive oxygen species levels and alleviate mitochondrial damage. The fucoidan–zinc complex presents itself as a promising zinc ion delivery system for treating zinc deficiency.
Perceived auditory dynamic range is enhanced with wrist-based tactile stimulation
Authors: Aker Scott C. , Faulkner Kathleen F. , Innes-Brown Hamish , Marozeau Jeremy
Published: October 2024

Tactile stimulation has been shown to increase auditory loudness judgments in listeners. This bias could be utilized to enhance perception for people with deficiencies in auditory intensity perception, such as cochlear implant users. However, several aspects of this enhancement remain uncertain. For instance, does the tactile stimulation need to be applied to the hand or body, or can it be applied to the wrist? Furthermore, can the tactile stimulation both amplify and attenuate the perceived auditory loudness? To address these questions, two loudness-matching experiments were conducted. Participants matched a comparison auditory stimulus with an auditory reference, either with or without spectro-temporally identical tactile stimulation. In the first experiment, fixed-level tactile stimulation was administered to the wrist during the comparison stimulus to assess whether perceived auditory loudness increased. The second experiment replicated the same conditions but introduced tactile stimulation to both the reference and comparison, aiming to investigate the potential decrease in perceived auditory loudness when the two tactile accompaniments were incongruent between the reference and comparison. The results provide evidence supporting the existence of the tactile loudness bias in each experiment and are a step towards wrist-based haptic devices that modulate the auditory dynamic range for a user.
Measurements of temporal variability of acoustic scattering from the seafloor in shallow-water sandy sites
Authors: Hare Jenna , Lyons Anthony P. , Catoire Matthew , Venegas Gabriel R.
Published: October 2024

In the ocean, the performance of active sonar systems depends on the acoustic properties of the seafloor. Daily to monthly variations in near-bottom hydrodynamics and benthic biological activity may affect seafloor properties which then influence the acoustic response of the seafloor. The dependence of seafloor scatter on evolving environmental parameters was investigated using high-frequency active acoustic systems. Seafloor scattering measurements were analyzed in a series of experiments (two weeks to five months in duration) from downward-looking sonars oriented at 20° grazing angle with respect to the seafloor. Data were obtained in two shallow water locations near Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA: a wave-dominated site and a site dominated by tidal currents. The bottom type for both sites was gravelly sand. The experimental set-up consisted of a tripod placed on the seafloor equipped with three transducers operating at 38, 70, and 200 kHz, a wave-sensing CTD, and underwater cameras. Scattering strength time series were obtained taking into account the local seafloor slope. Results show that there is variability in scattering strength (both in mean levels and distributions). Large variations often coincided with storm events, suggesting that this variability may be driven by changes in bottom roughness caused by storm-related hydrodynamics.
A single immunization of
Borreliella burgdorferi
-infected mice with Vanguard crLyme elicits robust antibody responses to diverse strains and variants of outer surface protein C
Authors: Chambers Gavin Z. , Chambers Kathryn M. F. , Marconi Richard T.
Published: October 2024

Lyme disease, caused by
Borreliella burgdorferi
and related species
,
is a growing health threat to companion animals across North America and Europe. Vaccination is an important preventive tool used widely in dogs living in, or near, endemic regions. In this report, we assessed anti-outer surface protein (Osp) A and anti-OspC antibody responses in
B. burgdorferi
-infected and -naïve mice (C3H/HeN) after immunization with a murine-optimized single dose of the Lyme disease subunit vaccine, Vanguard crLyme. crLyme is comprised of OspA and an OspC chimeritope-based immunogen designated as CH14. Mice that were infected and immunized developed higher levels of anti-OspC antibodies (Abs) than those infected only or that received one vaccine dose. The anti-OspC Abs that developed in the infected/immunized mice bound to all OspC variants tested (
n
= 22), whereas OspC Abs in serum from infected mice bound predominantly to the OspC variant (type A) produced by the infecting
B. burgdorferi
strain. Consistent with the absence of OspA expression in infected mammals, none of the infected mice developed Abs to OspA and did not develop anti-OspA Abs after single dose immunization. Lastly, serum from infected/immunized mice displayed significantly higher and broader killing activity than serum from non-immunized infected mice. The results of this study demonstrate that a single vaccination of actively infected mice results in strong anti-OspC Ab responses. This study contributes to our understanding of Ab responses to vaccination in actively infected mammals.
Draft genome sequences of four plant-associated free-living diazotrophs isolated from the rhizosphere of Malian tomato
Authors: Bellotti Gabriele , Sanou Paul , Sunzini Piero , Tabaglio Vincenzo , Cocconcelli Pier Sandro , Puglisi Edoardo
Published: October 2024

This announcement reports the draft genome sequences of two
Azospirillum argentinense
and two
Azotobacter salinestris
isolated from the rhizosphere of a tomato plant grown in a village in the Republic of Mali. These strains are plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and are highly valuable to agriculture for their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen.
Complete genome sequence of the
Sphingobacterium bambusae
type strain KACC 22910
T
Authors: Kim Do-Hyun , Choi Hyorim , Heo Jun
Published: October 2024

We report the whole genome sequence of
Sphingobacterium bambusae
KACC 22910
T
. The complete genome consists of a 5.6 Mb circular chromosome with a G + C content of 44.4 % and 4,526 predicted coding genes.
Draft genome sequence of
Methyloversatilis
sp. strain NSM2, isolated from a wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Aranda Alicia , Primo-Catalunya David , Pijuan Maite , Balcázar José L.
Published: October 2024

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Methyloversatilis
sp. NSM2, isolated from a wastewater treatment plant. This strain was enriched using methane as the sole carbon source. The 4.5-Mb genome, with a GC content of 66.5%, provides valuable insights into the strain’s ecological role and metabolic capabilities.
Association between feels-like temperatures and injury risk during international outdoor athletic championships: a prospective cohort study on 29 579 athlete starts during 10 championships
Authors: Edouard Pascal , Dandrieux Pierre-Eddy , Klöwer Milan , Junge Astrid , Racinais Sébastien , Branco Pedro , Hollander Karsten , Navarro Laurent
Published: October 2024

Objective

To analyse associations between feels-like temperatures measured with the universal thermal climate index (UTCI) and injury rates during international athletic championships.

Methods

During 10 international outdoor athletic championships from 2007 to 2022, in-competition injuries were collected by medical teams and local organising committees. UTCI was extracted hourly from a global reanalysis of observed atmospheric conditions during each championship. We performed Poisson regressions with incidence rates (number of injuries per 1000 athlete starts) as outcomes and UTCI as a predictive variable adjusted for sex, for all and time-loss injuries, for different injured tissue types (ie, muscle, tendon, ligament, articular, bone and skin) and specific discipline (ie, sprints, hurdles, jumps, throws, middle distance, long distance, marathon and race walking).

Results

A total of 1203 in-competition injuries were reported for 29 579 athlete starts. For all in-competition injuries (ie, all injured tissue types and all disciplines), higher UTCI was associated with lower incidence rates for time-loss injuries (IRR=0.98, 95% CI 0.97 to 0.98) but not for all injuries (IRR=1.00, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.01). Based on injured tissue type with all disciplines included, higher UTCI was associated with lower incidence rates for all (IRR=0.97, 95% CI 0.97 to 0.98) and time-loss (IRR=0.96, 95% CI 0.96 to 0.96) muscle injuries. Based on the specific discipline, higher UTCI was associated with lower incidence rates for all and time-loss muscle injuries for sprints (IRR=0.95, 95% CI 0.95 to 0.96, and IRR=0.94, 95% CI 0.93 to 0.94, respectively), hurdles (IRR=0.97, 95% CI 0.96 to 97, and IRR=0.95, 95% CI 0.94 to 0.96, respectively) and throws (IRR=0.97, 95% CI 0.97 to 0.98).

Conclusions

Higher feels-like temperatures were associated with a decreased risk of time-loss and muscle injuries, particularly in sprints, hurdles and throws. Although the precise mechanism for lower injury rates with higher feels-like temperatures requires further investigation, adapting preparations such as warm-up or clothing to forecasted weather conditions may be of benefit.
Thinking differently: lessons learned by international public health specialists while supporting the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response system in Pakistan
Authors: Wilson Anne , Cartwright Christopher
Published: October 2024

Internationally supported activities to build public health capacity and improve compliance with International Health Regulations (2005) so that countries are better able to ‘
prevent, protect against, control and provide a public health response to the international spread of disease
’ have had a positive impact in recent years. However, despite the proliferation of technical guidance, tools and roadmaps, as the recent COVID-19 emergency demonstrates, a significant challenge still remains. The unique and complex environment within countries is increasingly being recognised as a factor which needs greater consideration if system strengthening activities are to be successful.

This paper reflects on the learning from and charts out the journey of the authors’ in their efforts to support the Pakistan government to improve compliance with International Health Regulations, specifically through strengthening its Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) system.

To effect change, public health technical specialists bring their grounded technical and scientific expertise along with their softer public health skills of, among other things, relationship building and multisector working. In the authors’ experience, the importance of taking time throughout to build and maintain strong trusted relationships and peer-to-peer support has been the key to the successes experienced. The nature of this relationship and ongoing reflexive dialogue enabled the co-construction of the reality of the background environment, which, in turn, led to more realistic visioning of the desired system for IDSR, and therefore more appropriate bespoke technical support to be given, leading to the design and initial implementation of a country owned system developed with sustainability in mind.
A century of medical records reveal earlier onset of the malaria season in Haut-Katanga induced by climate change
Authors: Mariën Joachim , Mukomena Eric , Tevuzula Vivi Maketa , Leirs Herwig , Huyse Tine
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite worldwide efforts to eradicate malaria over the past century, the disease remains a significant challenge in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) today. Climate change is even anticipated to worsen the situation in areas with higher altitudes and vulnerable populations. This study in Haut-Katanga, a highland region, aims to evaluate the effectiveness of past control measures and to explore the impact of climate change on the region’s distinct seasonal malaria pattern throughout the last century.

Methods

We integrated colonial medical records (1917–1983) from two major mining companies (Union Minière du Haut-Katanga and the Générale des Carrières et des Mines) with contemporary data (2003–2020) from Lubumbashi. Concurrently, we combined colonial climate records (1912–1946) with recent data from satellite images and weather stations (1940–2023). We used Generalised Additive Models to link the two data sources and to test for changing seasonal patterns in transmission.

Results

Malaria transmission in Haut-Katanga has fluctuated significantly over the past century, influenced by evolving control strategies, political conditions and a changing climate. A notable decrease in cases followed the introduction of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), while a surge occurred after the civil wars ended at the beginning of the new millennium. Recently, the malaria season began 1–2 months earlier than historically observed, likely due to a 2–5°C increase in mean minimum temperatures, which facilitates the sporogonic cycle of the parasite.

Conclusion

Despite contemporary control efforts, malaria incidence in Haut-Katanga is similar to levels observed in the 1930s, possibly influenced by climate change creating optimal conditions for malaria transmission. Our historical data shows that the lowest malaria incidence occurred during periods of intensive DDT use and indoor residual spraying. Consequently, we recommend the systematic reduction of vector populations as a key component of malaria control strategies in highland regions of sub-Saharan Africa.