bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Tandem Rotor Dual Wake Interaction With Downstream Stator Under Unsteady Numerical Approach
Authors: Singh Ajey , Mistry Chetan
Published: November 2024

This paper highlights the intricate rotor–stator interaction between a tandem bladed rotor and a single-bladed stator in the light of unsteady numerical simulations. A low-speed tandem bladed compressor stage has been conceptualized and experimentally validated against targeted performance goal. With the evident pressure rise capability of the tandem bladed compressor stage, it becomes obligatory to investigate the rotor–stator interaction owing to its dominant effect on overall stage performance. The multipassage rotor–stator unsteady simulations have been performed using blade transformation methods in ANSYS CFX. Due to the presence of two highly loaded rotor blades, the tandem rotor exhibits peculiar rotor–stator interaction in terms of multiple wake impingement on the stator. Incorporating tandem blading on the rotor instead of the stator (which is more common) constricts the design envelope in terms of choice of blade axial overlap and percentage pitch. The variation of aerodynamic loading from hub to tip for both the rotor blades results in spanwise varying wake strength. The initially distinct wake structures merge resulting into a thicker wake. Additionally, the rotor blades are highly loaded in the tip region, which results in the complex interaction between end-wall boundary layer and tip leakage flow. Cumulatively, these conditions constitute a challenging aerodynamic field for the downstream stator. The study focuses on the qualitative interaction between the rotor wakes and blockage with the downstream stator and put forwards some aspects of the tandem rotor-single stator stage design especially for core compressors of aero engine application.
Undetected metastatic melanoma in the colon
Authors: Pajek Sarah , Cisneros Lopez Walter , Ray Juliet , Martinez Rennier A
Published: November 2024

Colonic melanoma is a rarely detected aetiology of small bowel obstruction. This is a case of a male in his 80s with a history of treated stage IIIA melanoma on his trunk 7 years prior who presented with small bowel obstruction. He underwent urgent surgical intervention, where a partial colectomy was performed. Pathology revealed a 4.6 cm melanoma causing intussusception. This case highlights the insidious nature of metastatic melanomas and discusses an uncommon location of melanoma metastasis that evaded detection until a late stage.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in a patient with adult-onset Still’s disease: report of a rare entity
Authors: Maddox Kirsten , Ananthaneni Anil , Patel Neelay , Ramadas Poornima
Published: November 2024

Adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) is a rare, systemic inflammatory disorder characterised by daily fever, arthritis, a salmon-pink rash and leucocytosis. Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is included in the class of thrombotic microangiopathies and manifests clinically as microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia (MAHA), thrombocytopenia and ischaemic tissue injury secondary to microthrombi. TTP is caused by either an autoimmune, congenital or idiopathic deficiency of ADAMTS13 and carries a high mortality rate. TTP can be seen in patients diagnosed with other rheumatologic conditions, with systemic lupus erythematosus being the most common, but is rarely seen in AOSD. Permanent complication rates from TTP in the setting of AOSD have been reported to be >50%. This case study aims to report one of the rare instances of TTP presenting in a patient with known AOSD to broaden the knowledge base regarding these rare coexisting pathologies.
Rare case of hyaline fibromatosis syndrome
Authors: Gupta Ashok Kumar , Moriangthem Amita , Naranje Kirti , Singh Anita
Published: November 2024

Hyaline fibromatosis syndrome is a rare, progressive and fatal autosomal recessive disorder characterised by multiple subcutaneous skin nodules, osteopenia, joint contractures, failure to thrive, diarrhoea and frequent infections. There is diffuse deposition of hyaline material in the skin, gastrointestinal tract, muscle and endocrine glands. The disease is often underdiagnosed since infants affected with the disease pass away early prior to establishing a final diagnosis. We describe an infant presenting with failure to thrive, progressive severe joint contractures and skin changes. Clinical exome sequencing revealed homozygous novel missense variation in exon 3 of the anthrax toxin receptor 2 gene confirming the diagnosis.
Gendered environmental pathways to sports injury: insights from retired athletes in the UK high-performance context
Authors: Coen Stephanie E , Downie Victoria , Follett Lucy , McCaig Steve , Parsons Joanne L
Published: November 2024

Objective

Women remain at increased risk for some sports injuries, such as anterior cruciate ligament rupture and concussion. This study applied a gendered environmental approach to identify modifiable features of women’s sport environments that may contribute to the gendered patterning of sports injuries. Our objectives were to identify features of gendered environments that mattered in athletes’ lived experiences and to trace pathways connecting these features to injury.

Methods

We employed a creative methodology combining semi-structured interviews with artefact-elicited storytelling and poetic transcription to actively centre women athletes’ voices and communicate their experiences in formats intended to stimulate reflection among sport system stakeholders.

Results

Drawing on insights from 20 recently retired women athletes across 11 UK high-performance sports, our reflexive thematic analysis identified five gendered environmental challenges shaping women’s injury experiences, risk and outcomes: (1) stereotypes trivialise injury, (2) physiology is all or nothing, (3) the ‘ideal’ female athlete, (4) in/visible inequities and (5) uneven power dynamics. Within these gendered environmental challenges, we identified mechanisms through which challenges manifest in the everyday experiences of athletes, highlighting these as potential points to disrupt the gendered environments-to-injury pathway.

Conclusion

Our findings provide an evidence-based framework for categorising and addressing gendered environmental challenges in women’s sport. Interventions to reconfigure the gendered status quo within sport should be embedded as part of injury prevention strategies.
REASSURED evaluation of the Bioline HCV point-of-care testing for diagnosing hepatitis C virus infection in primary healthcare settings of Ghana: a study protocol
Authors: Duah Evans , Ephraim Richard Kobina Dadzie , Mathebula Evans Mantiri , Mashamba-Thompson Tivani Phosa
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a silent epidemic that needs a comprehensive and contextualised approach to manage. Access to readily available, affordable and acceptable HCV point-of-care (POC) in vitro diagnostics (IVDs) is equally required to meet the global HCV goals. However, most guidelines for evaluating these IVDs such as the WHO prequalification process and country-specific standards disproportionately focus on diagnostic performance. The real-time connectivity, ease of specimen collection, affordability, sensitivity, specificity, user-friendliness, rapidity and robustness, equipment-free or simplicity and deliverability to end-users (REASSURED) criteria provide a holistic and user-oriented evaluation of the IVDs in the populations they are meant to be used. Therefore, as part of a multinational study in sub-Saharan Africa, we will conduct an evaluation of the Bioline HCV POC test for diagnosing HCV infection in primary healthcare settings of Ghana using the REASSURED criteria.

Methods and analysis

This field evaluation will be conducted in three phases. The first phase will use a cross-sectional field evaluation study design to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the Bioline HCV POC test. The second phase will use mixed methods to ascertain operational characteristics and users’ perceptions. In the third phase, a cross-sectional survey will be used to estimate the costs of accessing HCV diagnostics services using three proposed HCV testing models to inform the affordability of the testing pathways and linkage to care in the primary healthcare clinics. This phase will run concurrently with the second phase of the study. Thematic content analysis and quantitative data analysis will be performed using ATLAS.ti V.23.0.6 and StataCorp LLC’s Stata statistical software V.16.0, respectively.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has been reviewed and fully approved by the Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee, University of Pretoria (281/2023) and the Ghana Health Service Ethics Review Committee (GHS-ERC013/08/23). This diagnostic trial has also been registered in the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR202410837698664). The findings of the study will be presented in relevant peer-reviewed journals, at local and international conferences, and to all stakeholders involved.
Social network interventions for dietary adherence among adults with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Alaofè Halimatou , Okechukwu Abidemi , Yeo Sarah , McClelland Jean D , Hounkpatin Waliou Amoussa , Ehiri John
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Optimal adherence to recommended diets is crucial to achieving long-term glycaemic control among individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) individuals. However, there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of interventions that target dietary adherence through social networks. Since social networks can influence individuals’ health behaviours, it is important to thoroughly evaluate the impact of social network interventions on dietary adherence in adults with T2D. This systematic review protocol aimed to provide insights into future interventions and improve diabetes management strategies.

Method and analysis

PubMed, Embase, CINAHL Complete, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses and Google Scholar will be searched from inception to December 2023 for relevant randomised and non-randomised controlled trials of at least 3 months’ duration. In addition, studies that compared interventions involving the social networks (families, friends and peers) of adults with T2D with usual care, no intervention or an intervention with no explicit social network component will be included. Two reviewers will independently screen search outputs according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, critically evaluate the selected literature and extract data on the study setting, design, participants’ characteristics, interventions, controls, social network functions and duration of follow-up, using a standard data extraction form. Quantitative data analysis will be performed where studies are homogeneous in characteristics and provide adequate outcome data for meta-analysis. Otherwise, data will be synthesised using narrative synthesis. Finally, trials will be assessed for bias risk and overall evidence certainty using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for literature-based studies. The results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023441223.
Randomised clinical trial of a 16 mg vs 24 mg maintenance daily dose of buprenorphine to increase retention in treatment among people with an opioid use disorder in Rhode Island: study protocol paper
Authors: Armeni Kelsey , Chambers Laura C , Peachey Alyssa , Berk Justin , Langdon Kirsten J , Peterson Lisa , Beaudoin Francesca L , Wightman Rachel S
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Buprenorphine is a highly effective treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD). However, provider observations and preliminary research suggest that the current standard maintenance dose may be insufficient for suppressing withdrawal and preventing cravings among people who use or have used fentanyl. Buprenorphine dosing guidelines were based on studies among people who use heroin and have not been formally re-evaluated since fentanyl became predominant in the unregulated drug supply. We aim to compare the effectiveness of a high (24 mg) vs standard (16 mg) maintenance daily dose of buprenorphine for improving retention in treatment, decreasing the use of non-prescribed opioids, preventing cravings and reducing opioid overdose risk in patients.

Methods and analysis

Adults who are initiating or continuing buprenorphine for moderate to severe OUD and have a recent history of fentanyl use (n=250) will be recruited at four outpatient substance use treatment clinics in Rhode Island. Patients continuing buprenorphine must be on doses of 16 mg or less and have ongoing fentanyl use to be eligible. Participants will be randomly assigned 1:1 to receive either a high (24 mg) or standard (16 mg) maintenance daily dose, each with usual care, and followed for 12 months to evaluate outcomes. Providers will determine the buprenorphine initiation strategy, with the requirement that participants reach the study maintenance dose within 7 days of randomisation. Providers may adjust the maintenance dose, if clinically needed, for participant safety. The primary study outcome is retention in buprenorphine treatment at 6 months postrandomisation, measured using clinical and statewide administrative data. Other outcomes include non-prescribed opioid use and opioid cravings (secondary), as well as non-fatal or fatal opioid overdose (exploratory).

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol was approved by the Brown Institutional Review Board (STUDY00000075). Results will be presented at conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT06316830.
Knowledge, attitude and practice towards arthroscopic shoulder surgery in patients with rotator cuff tear: cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Gonghao , Xiong Li , Kuang Gaixia , Zhang Yangyang , Jing Hao , Gu Mengzhen , Zhou Cancan , Cui Juan , Ji Yunhan , Xiao Zhengguang
Published: November 2024

Objectives

This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of patients with rotator cuff tears towards arthroscopic shoulder surgery (ASS), based on the hypothesis that the knowledge of the procedure among patients would be sufficient, which in turn might influence their practice and attitude.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Patients were recruited from Tong Ren Hospital between September and October 2022.

Participants

A total of 588 patients were included in the study.

Interventions

No interventions were administered.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Knowledge, attitude and practice scores were measured using a self-administered questionnaire.

Results

Out of 588 patients included, 50.51% had undergone ASS. Lower education level and monthly income, shorter weekly exercise time and shorter disease duration were identified as independent risk factors for the KAP total score. Structural equation modelling revealed a direct positive effect of knowledge on attitude, but neither knowledge nor attitude influenced practice scores.

Conclusions

Patients with rotator cuff tears demonstrated relatively poor knowledge, a neutral attitude and moderate practice towards ASS, highlighting the need for patient education and counselling to enhance understanding and decision-making regarding ASS.
Nepal Family Cohort study: a study protocol
Authors: Kurmi Om P. , Chaudhary Nagendra , Delanerolle Gayathri , Bolton Charlotte E , Pant Puspa Raj , Regmi Pramod R , Gautam Sanjivan , Satia Imran , Simkhada Padam , Kyrou Ioannis , Sigdel Tara Kanta , Hundley Vanora , Dali Prashil Raj , Løkke Anders , Lam Kin Bong Hubert , Bennett Derrick , Custovic Adnan , van Teijlingen Edwin , Gill Paramjit , Randeva Harpal , O'Byrne Paul
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The Nepal Family Cohort study uses a life course epidemiological approach to collect comprehensive data on children’s and their parents’ environmental, behavioural and metabolic risk factors. These factors can affect the overall development of children to adulthood and the onset of specific diseases. Among the many risk factors, exposure to air pollution and lifestyle factors during childhood may impact lung development and function, leading to the early onset of respiratory diseases. The global incidence and prevalence of respiratory diseases are rapidly increasing, with the rate of increase in Nepal being the highest. Although the cohort will primarily focus on respiratory health, other health outcomes such as cardiovascular, metabolic and mental health will be assessed to provide a comprehensive overall health assessment. All other health outcomes are self-reported following doctor diagnosis. Some of these health outcomes will be quality controlled during the follow-up by measuring disease specific markers. Our cohort study will likely provide evidence of risk factors and policy recommendations.

Methods and analysis

Using a life-course epidemiology approach, we established a longitudinal study to address the determinants of lung health and other health outcomes from childhood to adulthood. The baseline data collection (personal data anonymised) was completed in April 2024, and 16 826 participants (9225 children and 7601 parents) from 5829 families were recruited in different geographical and climate areas (hills and plains) of Nepal. We plan to follow up all the participants every 2–3 years.

Descriptive analysis will be used to report demographic characteristics and compare rural and semi-urban regions. A linear regression model will assess the association between air pollution, particularly household air pollution (HAP) exposure, and other lifestyle factors, with lung function adjusted for potential confounders. A two-stage linear regression model will help to evaluate lung development based on exposure to HAP.

Ethics

Ethical approval was obtained from the Nepal Health Research Council, Kathmandu, Nepal, and McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada. Permissions were obtained from two municipalities where the study sites are located. Parents provided signed informed consent and children their assent.

Dissemination

Findings will be disseminated through traditional academic pathways, including peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. We will also engage the study population and local media (ie, research blogs and dissemination events) and prepare research and policy briefings for stakeholders and leaders at the local, provincial and national levels.
Picking the low-hanging fruit: the cost-effectiveness of opportunistic diabetes screening during tuberculosis contact investigations on the Texas–Mexico border
Authors: McGowan Robert A , Brown Henry Shelton , Lopez-Alvarenga Juan Carlos , Restrepo Blanca I
Published: November 2024

Objective

There is a known association between type 2 diabetes (diabetes) and tuberculosis (TB), and TB clinics have become hubs for new diabetes diagnosis among active patients with TB. However, despite the potential to identify diabetes patients, resources limit diabetes screening opportunities to close TB contacts. We assessed the cost-effectiveness of adding opportunistic screening for diabetes during the routine TB contact investigations conducted at TB clinics.

Research design and methods

We used a Markov-based model to simulate the costs of diabetes screening, management and health outcomes, including the incidence of complications and death. All costs were considered from a health system perspective. One-way sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the robustness of the results to various assumptions. Interventions that fall below US$50 000 per quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) are commonly considered very cost-effective, while those between $50 000 and $100 000 are considered moderately cost-effective.

Results

Simulation of diabetes screening among TB contacts resulted in not only increased survival and reduced complications but also increased costs of diabetes management. The resulting incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was $32 642 per QALY added, which is well within commonly used willingness-to-pay thresholds for cost-effectiveness. Compared with no screening, screening increased the costs by $8633 and resulted in an increase in QALYs by 0.26 per patient.

Conclusions

In the base case analysis, screening was very cost-effective given that none of the sensitivity analyses resulted in a cost-effectiveness ratio above $50 000 per QALY. Our results indicate that the expansion of diabetes screening in TB clinics is a cost-effective strategy to improve health outcomes.
Modifiable risk factors for dementia in India: a cross-sectional study revisiting estimates and reassessing prevention potential and priorities
Authors: Angrisani Marco , Nichols Emma , Meijer Erik , Gross Alden L , Ehrlich Joshua , Varghese Mathew , Langa Kenneth M , Dey A B , Adar Sara D , Lee Jinkook
Published: November 2024

Background

About 16% of worldwide dementia cases are in India. Evaluating the prospects for dementia prevention in India requires knowledge of context-specific risk factors, as relationships between risk factors and dementia observed in high-income countries (HICs) may not apply.

Methods

We computed population attributable fractions (PAFs) for dementia in India by estimating associations between risk factors and dementia, their prevalence and communality, within the same nationally representative sample of 4096 Indians aged 60 and older, surveyed through the Harmonised Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia for the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India.

Results

The risk factor with the largest PAF (>20%) was no education, followed by vision impairment (14%), physical inactivity (12%) and social isolation (8%). According to our estimates, eliminating exposure to risk factors significantly associated with dementia would potentially prevent up to 70% of dementia cases in India.

Discussion

Previous estimates, based on samples limited to specific geographic areas and using risk factors’ definitions and relative risks from HICs, may not correctly estimate the real opportunities for preventing dementia in India or identify the most critical areas for intervention.
Pim1 inactivating induces RUNX3 upregulation that improves/alleviates airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Fang Yanni , Guo Zhen , Zhou Lanzhi , Zhang Juan , Li Haiyan , Hao Jumei
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Our research aimed to evaluate whether proto-oncogene serine/threonine-protein kinase Pim-1 (Pim1) inactivation could attenuate asthma by promoting runt-related transcription factor 3 (Runx3) expression and explore the underlying molecular mechanism.

Method

Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA, 50 nM) was used to induce inflammation in BEAS-2B human airway epithelial cells. ELISA and immunofluorescence double staining confirmed inflammation modelling and differential expression of Pim1 and Runx3. Pim1 inhibitor (SGI-1776) and Runx3 siRNA (siRunx3) were used in this study. Apoptosis, inflammation, MUC5AC protein expression, Pim1 kinase and Runx3 protein expression, and PI3K/AKT/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway-associated protein expression were also assessed by flow cytometry, immunofluorescence and western blot. The effects of Pim1 inactivation on airway inflammation, pathological injury and mucus secretion in wild-type and Runx3 knockout mice were observed by in vivo experiments.

Results

The results of the in vitro experiments showed that PMA stimulation causes BEAS-2B cell apoptosis and promotes the MUC5AC expression. In addition, PMA stimulation activated the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway. SGI-1776 treatment partially reversed these effects, whereas siRunx3 attenuated the effects of SGI-1776 on PMA-stimulated BEAS-2B cells. In vivo experiments showed that in Runx3-KO asthmatic mice, inhibition of Pim1 kinase had less effect on airway inflammation, pathological injury and mucus secretion. Meanwhile, Pim1 kinase expression was higher in Runx3-KO asthmatic mice than in wild-type asthmatic mice. Furthermore, inhibition of Pim1 kinase inhibited activation of the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway, whereas these effects were attenuated in Runx3-KO mice.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that Pim1 inactivation can ameliorate airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion through upregulation of Runx3 and the effect could be mediated through modulation of the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway.
Prolonged disorder of consciousness: giving a second opinion on the best interests of a person
Authors: Wade Derick T
Published: November 2024

Patients with a prolonged disorder of consciousness have a neurological disorder. Few neurologists undertake assessment and management after the acute phase of the person’s illness, even though some of their patients with progressive neurological disorders become persistently unconscious. Their clinical evaluation and deciding on their best interests require full use of a neurologist’s expertise, which is intellectually, emotionally and clinically challenging. I will cover essential aspects of giving such an expert second opinion based on at least 200 cases where I have done so (and over 500 patients seen clinically).
On perfect fluid spacetimes obeying Gray’s decompositions
Authors: De Uday Chand , Altay Demirbag Sezgin , Özen Zengi̇n Füsun
Published: November 2024

In this work, perfect fluid spacetimes obeying Gray’s decompositions have been studied. In the first part, after a brief summary about Gray’s decompositions used in this study, we work on properties of perfect fluid spacetimes obeying these decompositions. The results are obtained for different subspaces of a perfect fluid spacetime. Thereafter, we present the characterizations of these spacetimes by proving some theorems.
EFFECTS OF LASER CLADDING AND PLASMA NITRIDING ON MICROSTRUCTURE AND PROPERTIES OF Cu-Al ALLOY
Authors: HU YIFENG , LI XIAOXIAN , LIU WEI , WANG XIANG , ZHANG XUEHUI , LIANG TONGXIANG
Published: November 2024

In order to improve the poor comprehensive performance of aluminum bronze surface, a duplex surface modification technology consisting of laser cladding and followed by plasma nitriding was adopted to prepare the infiltration composite modified layer. The effects of different surface treatment techniques on the microstructure and properties of the modified layer were investigated. The results show that the laser cladding surface is mainly composed of Cu-rich intermetallic compounds, and the AlN layer appears on the surface after plasma nitriding treatment, which significantly improves the hardness and tribological properties. The surface modification treatment changes the surface morphology. The microhardness of the alloy surface after composite modification is much higher than that of untreated and single treatment. It is about six times that of the Cu-Al matrix. At the same time, the composite modified layer has a lower friction coefficient and wear volume, showing excellent tribological properties. These research results can provide a new way for the surface design and development of metal materials.
SURFACE AND EROSION BEHAVIOR INVESTIGATION ON IN625 SUPERALLOY USING YTTRIUM-DOPED OPTICAL FIBER LASER CUTTING
Authors: NANDAKUMAR N. S. , SASIKUMAR K. S. K. , VIJAYAKUMAR R.
Published: November 2024

A nickel superalloy such as IN625 is widely employed in the oil, chemical processing, nuclear, and aviation industries due to its exceptional high-temperature strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance characteristics. These industries often require components with intricate and complex geometries that must adhere to close tolerances with adequate surface finish. Fiber laser beam machining (FLBM) has emerged as a significant advancement in fabrication technology, creating intricate forms and structures, especially in superalloys. This work aims to analyze the effect of laser frequency ([Formula: see text], number of passes ([Formula: see text]), laser power ([Formula: see text], and scanning speed ([Formula: see text]) in the machining of IN625 to achieve minimum surface undulation ([Formula: see text]) and maximum erosion quantity ([Formula: see text]). The responsive surface methodology (RSM) was employed to model and optimize the parameters. The optimal condition was identified as [Formula: see text]= 10.5[Formula: see text]W, [Formula: see text]= 18, [Formula: see text]= 283[Formula: see text]mm/min, and [Formula: see text]= 18[Formula: see text]kHz; confirmation trials showed an improvement of 8.0% in [Formula: see text] and 19.75% in [Formula: see text] The influence of scanning speed on surface undulation and erosion quantity is significant. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicates that scanning speed contributes the most to surface undulation (70.48%) and erosion quantity (72.90%), followed by the number of passes with contributions of 13.94% to surface undulation and 14.41% to erosion quantity. Additionally, the surface topography and morphology of the machined surface are analyzed using 3D topography images and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images.
Advances and Significances of Nanoparticles in Textile Industry
Authors: Rimon Md. Israfil Hossain , Mobarak Md. Hosne , Munna Md. Shahriar , Faridi Tasnim , Rahman A. K. M. Saidur , Rayhan Md. Thohid
Published: November 2024

Integrating nanoparticles into textiles represents a crucial intersection between nanotechnology and the textile industry, fundamentally transforming the process of designing, producing and utilizing fabrics. Nanoparticles enhance textile materials by introducing novel features such as antibacterial capabilities, UV protection, flame retardancy and enhanced mechanical strength. These improvements result in fabrics that are more intelligent, highly efficient and environmentally sustainable. They also optimize production processes and provide cutting-edge product designs. Nevertheless, the extensive adoption of nanoparticle technology in textiles encounters notable obstacles, such as those related to nanoparticle dispersion, longevity and compatibility with different substrates. Furthermore, the need for sustainable production processes and the creation of environmentally friendly nanoparticle compositions is driven by concerns regarding environmental impact and toxicity. Nanotechnology, if applied to these difficulties, has the capacity to reduce environmental dangers and introduce a new era of textiles that are both highly functional and in line with global sustainability objectives. This review will examine the techniques used to incorporate nanoparticles into textiles, the advantages of doing so, the assessment of their performance and the considerations about their long-term viability.
Engineered Nanomaterials Chemical Characteristics for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Islam Md. Aminul , Chowdhury Md. Shakil , Hasan Md. Jahid , Rayhan Md. Thohid , Islam Safiul , Hossain Nayem , Mobarak Md. Hosne
Published: November 2024

Engineered nanomaterials, such as nanoparticles, nanocomposites and chalcogenides, possess distinct characteristics as a result of their extremely small size, leading to significant advancements in industries such as healthcare, electronics and energy. Nanomaterials play a crucial role in cancer immunotherapy by greatly improving the effectiveness of several treatments, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, T cell transfer therapy, monoclonal antibodies and therapeutic vaccines. They achieve this by enhancing drug transport and increasing targeting accuracy. Although they have the ability to bring about significant changes, obstacles, such as potential toxicity, environmental effect and manufacturing complexity, impede their widespread use. In order to address these problems, it is crucial to use tactics such as thorough biocompatibility testing, environmentally friendly production procedures and modern manufacturing technology. This study examines the progress and difficulties in using synthetic nanomaterials for cancer immunotherapy and suggests ways to ensure their safe and efficient incorporation into medical treatments.
Distribution System Operator (DSO) Functions in South Korea—Part I: Development, Practical Obstacles, and Future Work
Authors: Park Jung-Sung , Kim Jun-Hyeok , Noh Seung-Gil , Cho Woo-Young , Kim Han-Kyul , Kim Balho H. , Kim Yun-Su
Published: November 2024

This paper presents our initial research findings on distribution system operator (DSO) functions in South Korea. The project team includes the Korean Electric Power Corporation, which is the only public utility company in South Korea. The planned development is based on a real distribution network and real‐world environments. The project encompasses DSO–transmission system operator coordination and management of real‐time distribution network congestion; this paper focuses on the latter aspect. For real‐time congestion management, algorithms that handle all steps from database analysis to data export, including data preprocessing, topological configuration, power flow calculation, sensitivity analysis, and derivation of solutions to congestion, are developed. The distribution system equipment database of Korean Electric Power Corporation is used to develop a network congestion management system. When examining the database, many gaps between the theoretical and practical environments were found which are introduced in this paper. A practical distribution network database for South Korea is developed to narrow these gaps and to implement practical congestion management techniques. The remaining problems are introduced as future works.
The Seroepidemiology of Strongyloides stercoralis Infection in Jamaica
Authors: Chin Anique Vanessa , Thompson Tamara , Denton Cobrini S. , Lindo John F.
Published: November 2024

Strongyloides stercoralis is a soil‐transmitted helminth which is distributed predominately throughout tropical and subtropical regions and is considered a neglected tropical disease. Due to low larval output, traditional microscopic methods lack sensitivity, especially in areas of low endemicity. Serological assays present an opportunity to study the epidemiology of S. stercoralis in areas of low endemicity such as Jamaica. The current study evaluated the seroprevalence of S. stercoralis in a selected subpopulation in Jamaica. An analysis was conducted on 311 archived serum samples previously submitted for investigating viral infections during a fever epidemic between 2014 and 2015. Randomly selected, anonymized sera were tested for the presence of S. stercoralis IgG antibodies using the AccuDiag Strongyloides IgG ELISA Kit. Data including age, sex, clinical diagnosis, and the geographic location of sample submission were recorded to delineate trends in demographic variables. The seropositivity rate of S. stercoralis was 15.43%. The rate among females and males was 16.45% and 14.47%, respectively (χ2 = 0.2339, p = 0.629). The highest rate was found in middle adulthood (31–50 years) (26.53%; 13/49). The seroprevalence of S. stercoralis was significantly highest in a rural Regional Health Authority (33.33%; 14/42) and least within an urban Health Authority (9.71%; 17/175). Exposure to S. stercoralis appears to be highest in the rural Regional Health Authorities with an island‐wide exposure rate of 15.43%. The rapid ELISA testing method for the detection of IgG antibodies to S. stercoralis used in this study may be useful as part of a combined approach to elucidate the epidemiology of this soil‐transmitted parasite in Jamaica.
Comparative Analysis of Shale Gas Enrichment and High Yield Geological Conditions of Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation and Qiongzhusi Formation in Southern Sichuan Basin
Authors: Zheng Majia , Long Hui , Wu Ya , Ou Zhipeng , Liu Wenlei , Wang Dandan , Chen Wenyi , Jiang Zhenxue , Tang Xianglu
Published: November 2024

Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation and Qiongzhusi Formation are the significant shale gas exploration strata in China. The former has made a major breakthrough, and the exploration of the latter is restricted. At present, it shows good exploration potential in the Qiongzhusi Formation. Based on the field outcrop and core logging data, the production data from drilled shale gas wells and previous research results combined with the determination of organic matter content, laser Raman spectroscopy of organic matter, X‐ray diffraction experiments, and field emission scanning electron microscopy observations. This study compares the geological conditions and control factors of shale gas enrichment and high yield in the Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation and Qiongzhusi Formation and clarifies the enrichment mode of two sets of shale gas reservoirs. The results show that the organic geochemical conditions of two sets of shale reservoirs are similar, about 0.5%~4.5%. The quartz content of Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation shale (42.5%) is more than that of Qiongzhusi Formation (34.1%~40.2%), and the feldspar content (6.4%) is less than that of Qiongzhusi Formation (20.5~27.3%). The inorganic pores of the Qiongzhusi Formation are more developed than those of the Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation, and the pore size of inorganic pores can reach 100 nm~1 μm. Both of them have good preservation conditions. The enrichment of shale gas in the Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation is controlled by hydrocarbon generation reservoir‐preservation conditions, and the enrichment of shale gas in the Qiongzhusi Formation is mainly controlled by geological structure. It is of great significance to clarify the enrichment control factors of the Qiongzhusi Formation for effectively guiding the continuous exploration and development of the Qiongzhusi Formation. Shale gas exploration in the Qiongzhusi Formation has a very large prospect, which is expected to exceed the Longmaxi Formation.
Ab Initio Calculations of Structural, Lattice Dynamical, and Thermodynamic Properties of Zinc‐Blende HgSe and CdSe
Authors: Zhao YuNa , Shi WeiWei , Zhang QiaoQiao , Wang JianYing , Ma JunGang , Gao Tao
Published: November 2024

The structural, dynamical, and thermodynamic properties of zinc‐blende (ZB) mercury selenide (HgSe) and cadmium selenide (CdSe) were systematically explored using an ab initio pseudopotential approach based on the density functional theory (DFT). The optimized lattice constants are in excellent agreement with the available experimental and theoretical results. The electronic properties show semiconducting behavior with a direct bandgap of 0 and 0.36 eV for HgSe and CdSe, respectively. Also, using the linear response approach, the detailed vibration properties of HgSe and CdSe are obtained. According to the calculated phonon dispersion, it is concluded that HgSe and CdSe are dynamically stable in the ground state; several peculiarities in the dispersion curves of these materials are generally similar, but the zone‐boundary frequencies and zone‐center optical frequencies of HgSe are lower than those of CdSe. The phonon frequencies at the high‐symmetry points Γ, X, and L for HgSe and CdSe are in good agreement with the other theoretical reported. On the other hand, the dielectric properties are investigated and discussed. The results show that the dielectric tensor is diagonal, and the Born effective charge tensor is also isotropic. Finally, based on the lattice dynamical properties, we investigate the thermodynamic properties of both compounds, such as Helmholtz free energy F, internal energy E, entropy S, and specific heat Cv. The results show that HgSe and CdSe exhibit similar but slightly different behaviors in terms of its thermodynamic properties, which is expected because the atoms Hg and Cd are in the same group and exhibit a different atom mass. Most of the results presented in this study are novel and should provide a useful reference for future studies.
Cardioembolic Stroke Due to Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis Caused by Candida parapsilosis: A Case Report
Authors: Affas Mohammad Nasser , Chawa Yamane , Khalil Mohammad Salem , Alkodmani Sham
Published: November 2024

Embolic stroke due to prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) caused by Candida parapsilosis is a rare and serious complication. Successful management requires a combination of medical and surgical approaches. We present a case full of complexities in diagnosing and managing Candida PVE, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. A 50 year‐old male presented to the emergency department with vertigo and low‐grade fever and was found to have cerebellar stroke likely from the cardioembolic origin, and the patient had a history of uncontrolled diabetes and double prosthetic valves. The diagnosis was challenging and required transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) which showed two vegetations attached to the mitral valve prosthesis. The management involved antifungal therapy, but surgery was hindered by financial issues. The patient was considered for the AngioVac vegetation aspiration system due to persistent fungemia. Eventually, surgery was not performed, and the patient was discharged with a plan for long‐term suppressive antifungal therapy.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Local and International Food Safety Standards in Small and Medium‐Sized Enterprises (SMEs) of Pakistan
Authors: Qamar Tariq , Ahmad Rabia Shabir , Arshad Muhammad Sajid , Afzaal Muhammad
Published: November 2024

Pakistani small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) have an important role and contribute less than other countries, yet their significance cannot be denied. The SME sector is confronted with multiple problems, including export issues because of the trust factor and least knowledge of the latest food safety standards, which have made it difficult to contribute to the GDP of the nation. Various standards such as Food Safety, HACCP, GGAP YUM GAP, MacDonald’s GAP, ISO 9001, and ISO 14001 are being implemented in Pakistan for decades. This study was designed to highlight the critical issues of Pakistani SMEs in adopting management systems, i.e., food safety management systems. Data from 107 SMEs from different fields (beverages, baking, meat, postharvest processing, etc.) of Pakistan were collected through a detailed questionnaire and fed to SPSS V 26.0 for statistical illustration and articulation of the results. In this study, SME company profiles were analyzed and showed that 43% had 6–20 employees, 78.5% were manufacturers, and 68.2% were in business for 7–15 years. The focus was on sales growth (35.5%), profit growth (38.3%), return on assets (42.1%), gross revenues (47.7%), net cash flow (46.7%), customer satisfaction (47.7%), and customer satisfaction relative to competitors (46.7%). A total of 21.5% of SMEs implemented local standards, 23.4% implemented international standards, and 54.2% implemented both local and international standards. Certification benefits included establishing an effective system (62.6% agreed), understanding roles and responsibilities (76.6% agreed), and more efficient documentation (60.7% agreed). However, 29.9% and 24.3% of respondents found international standards such as FSSC 22000 and BRC challenging to apply in local organizations due to language and cost barriers. Above all, the current study implies the dire need for the development of Pakistan’s food safety management system (PFSMS) standard. The PFSMS should be easy to understand, low in cost, and highly applicable in different sectors of the SMEs in Pakistan.
Methods of Division of Development Unit for Thick Carbonate Reservoir—A Case Study of the Mishrif Formation, A Oilfield, Middle East
Authors: Li Fengfeng , Li Yong , Chen Jiaheng , Li Lei , Ren Lixin , Meng Lei , Wang Wenyu , Wan Yang , Lu Yuedong , Chen Haowei
Published: November 2024

This paper is aimed at introducing a method for the division of development units of thick carbonate reservoirs. This method consists of eight steps, ranked according to impact weight, each of which is independent but intrinsically linked. When there is a conflict between studies in different steps, the results of the previous step take precedence. (1) Pressure is the most important and reliable data. When the wells with an abnormal pressure gradient in the same interval account for more than 60%, further division of the reservoir is appropriate. (2) Baffles are the second most important and reliable basis. When there are continuous baffles or poor reservoirs that encounter more than 80% wells, it is appropriate to further divide reservoirs. (3) Without the two mentioned above, but with an unconformity surface or discontinuity surface between two sequences, it is appropriate to treat these two sequences as two development units. (4) Without the three mentioned above, if the permeability above and below the sequence boundary differs by 10 or more times, reservoirs above and below the sequence boundary are appropriate as distinct development units. (5) When the thickness, continuity, distribution pattern, and microstructure of two adjacent sequences are significantly different, it is appropriate to treat these two sequences as two development units. (6) If the development units are based on sequences, check for homogeneity within the stratigraphy. If depositional facies or physical property discontinuities are present, the sequence would be reconsidered for subdivision. (7) The reserves in each development unit should account for more than 20% of that of the whole reservoir. (8) When the division of the development units is complete, it needs to be examined to ensure that there is a consistent structure, fluid property, and free water level. If inconsistencies exist, then subdivision is considered. The method was successfully applied to A oilfield, Central Arabian Basin, in combination with the cores, cast thin sections, regular or special core analysis, wireline logging data from 450 wells, formation pressure from 63 wells, and more than 100 wells with a production logging test. The Mishrif reservoir was divided into four development units, in which different well patterns and well types were deployed. The improved development effect proves that the division of development units for thick bioclastic limestone reservoir is reasonable.
Role of Genetically Modified Microorganisms for Effective Elimination of Heavy Metals
Authors: Misra Shashi Kiran , Kumar Ajay , Pathak Kamla , Kumar Girish , Virmani Tarun
Published: November 2024

Heavy metals are lethal and hazardous pollutants for the ecosystem owing to their virtues including acute toxicity, prolonged persistence, and bioaccumulation. These contaminants are not only a threat to aquatic/terrestrial biota but also pose serious health issues to humans. Natural and anthropologic processes consistently upsurge heavy metal concentration beyond acceptable limits and mobilization and hence disturb biogeochemical cycles and the food chain, although several conventional strategies including adsorption, chemical precipitation, ion exchange, and membrane separation methods are being employed for the removal of these lethal heavy metals from the ecosystem but failed due to lower efficiency rates and high application charges. The current scenario highly demands advanced biosorption or bioaccumulation processes that slow down heavy metal mobilization within the acceptable limit in the ecosystem. Genetically modified microorganisms (GMMs) with desired features are developed through interdisciplinary participation of genomics, molecular microbiology, and bioinformatics that have more potential to bioremediate heavy metals than the native microbes from polluted ecosystems. The study focuses on different sources of heavy metals, their impact on the ecosystem, and the bioremediation of toxic heavy metals via GMMs.