bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Properties and microstructures of porous corundum‐spinel aggregates fabricated via the Kirkendall effect
Authors: He Yang , Mi Zhuo , Chen Qingjie , Peng Die , Zhang Shilong , Li Nan
Published: January 2024

Four porous corundum‐spinel aggregates were prepared from magnesia and α‐Al2O3 micropowder via the Kirkendall effect. Effects of the particle size of magnesia (PSM, 0–74 μm, 0–15 μm, and 0–44 μm) and firing temperature (1100–1600°C) on the phase compositions, microstructures, pore characteristics of the prepared porous aggregates were investigated. As the firing temperature increased, the PSM influenced the reaction rate of magnesia and alumina, and the sintering process, leading to remarkable changes in the phase compositions, porosity, and microstructure with a negligible impact on the pore size distribution. As the PSM decreased from 0–74 μm to 0–15 μm, the apparent porosity initially increased and then decreased. Relatively compact cyclic spinels formed around the Kirkendall pores in aggregates with 0–74 μm and 0–44 μm magnesia added after fired at 1600°C, as the expansion of spinel formation was inhibited by the high strength of the alumina matrix. Finally, the optimized product is an aggregate with 0–44 μm magnesia added, which exhibits a high total porosity of 32.4%, a low bulk density of 2.69 g/cm3, and a thermal conductivity of 2.178 W/(m·K) at 1000°C, as well as a high compressive strength of 302.5 MPa and a small median pore size of .46 μm. This work provides a promising technique for preparing porous‐corundum‐based aggregates.
The correlation between systemic inflammatory markers and efficiency for advanced gastric cancer patients treated with ICIs combined with chemotherapy
Authors: Dong Qiuxia , Zhao Fuxing , Li Yuying , Song Feixue , Li Enxi , Gao Lihong , Xin Yuanfang , Shen Guoshuang , Ren Dengfeng , Wang Miaozhou , Zhao Yi , Liu Zhen , Xie Qiqi , Liu Zhilin , Li Zitao , Zhao Jiuda
Published: January 2024

Currently lacking research to explore the correlation between inflammatory markers and the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced gastric cancer. This study is a retrospective study and included patients with advanced gastric cancer who receiving ICIs combined with chemotherapy from January 2020 to December 2022. We analysed the relationship between systemic inflammatory markers and the efficacy of ICIs combined chemotherapy and constructed a clinical prediction model. A nomogram was constructed based on the results of the bidirectional stepwise regression model. A total of 197 patients were enrolled in the training group, with a median follow‐up period of time 26 months. Kaplan Meier analysis showed that the median OS of patients with low systemic immune‐inflammatory index (SII) and low platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) was superior to those with high SII and PLR. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that SII, NLR, PLR, and N stage as independent prognostic factors for OS. Adding SII to the conventional model improved the predictive ability of the 12‐month OS. A total of 95 patients were included in the validation group, and external validation of the SII‐based nomogram showed favourable predictive performance. Baseline SII, PLR, and N stage may serve as independent predictive factors for survival outcomes in advanced gastric cancer patients undergoing ICIs combined with chemotherapy. The SII‐based nomogram can provide intuitive and accurate prognosis prediction of individual patients.
Layered ZrO2/SiO2 aerogel composite fibrous flexibility membrane for thermal insulation and sound absorption
Authors: Yang Mengmeng , Ding Yang , Chen Zhaofeng , Wu Qiong , Liu Lihao , Liu Tianlong , Li Manna , Xu Kai , Le Lu , Yang Lixia
Published: January 2024

As promising candidates for widespread application, advanced ceramic fiber mats with robust mechanical properties are urgently needed. However, the brittleness, fatigue failure, and large density of ceramic fiber pose significant obstacles to its practical application. Herein, a novel SiO2 aerogel/ZrO2 composite nanofibrous membrane (SZCNFM) with excellent flexibility was prepared by introducing SiO2 aerogel nanoparticles into ZrO2 nanofiber via simple co‐electrospinning. The developed tetragonal zirconia phase without changing up to 1200°C endows SZCNFM material with excellent thermal stability. Furthermore, the as‐prepared membranes exhibit fatigue resistance ability which can maintain 98% of the original stress after 100 buckling cycle tests. The addition of mesoporous structure aerogel reduces the heat transfer of the nanofibrous membrane, giving its low thermal conductivity (30 mW/m/K) and low‐frequency sound absorption (noise reduction coefficient of 0.52). Combined with the high‐temperature resistance, low thermal conductivity and excellent sound‐absorption ability make it a promising material for heat insulation and acoustic absorption.
Heterojunction engineering decorated TiO2/ZnO three‐dimensional hierarchical structure with g‐C3N4 for solar driving water splitting
Authors: Jia Yong , Li Xingzhi , Chen Caiyun , Fang Wenjun , Chen Yongyan , Wang Lingling , Wang Ruyi
Published: January 2024

Improving the carrier separation efficiency plays a decisive role in designing and constructing a high‐efficiency photocatalysis reaction system. Derived from providing a directional transport channel for photogenerated carriers, three‐dimensional (3D) nanostructures greatly improve the charge separation efficiency. Herein, TiO2/ZnO (TZ)/g‐C3N4 3D hierarchical nanostructure was constructed to artificially simulate photosynthesis of green plants. The optimal TZ/g‐C3N4 photoanode exhibits a photocurrent density of 1.46 mA/cm2 at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode potential, 1.6 times that of pure TiO2 (0.9 mA/cm2). Moreover, under constant illumination (100 mW/cm2), the hydrogen production reached 80 μmol/cm2 within 180 min. It is worth noting that the TZ/g‐C3N4 photoanode shows surprising stability, which is an important indicator for the practical application of the photoelectrode. The excellent photoelectrochemical performance benefits from the following two aspects: TZ nanotree structure provides a directional transport channel for photogenerated carriers, and the modification of TZ by g‐C3N4 extends the response range to the visible region.
Agitation of liquid eggs during ohmic heating pasteurization—Experimental and computer simulation study
Authors: Wang Chunsen , Llave Yvan , Fukuoka Mika
Published: January 2024

Traditional pasteurization process of liquid eggs deals with food safety regulations; however, detriment of functional quality properties is also promoted. In this study, an agitated ohmic heating system at 20 kHz was evaluated experimentally and using a 3D computer simulation model, developed using COMSOL Multiphysics. The accuracy of the model was successfully validated by experimental temperature profiles results, showing low errors (RMSRE < 10%), at two different locations. The temperature distribution and flow behavior of liquid eggs during processing were analyzed using the 3D model. Safety and quality retention assessments of processed liquid eggs were performed by calculating the thermal pasteurization value (P‐value) and thermal protein non‐denaturation ratio (X), respectively. A better temperature uniformity was found under 20 rpm than at 10 rpm of rotational speed (temperature difference was reduced from 1.8 to 1.4°C and 5.1 to 4.3°C for egg white and yolk, respectively). Moreover, the degree of protein denaturation (at the point where the P‐value was accomplished) at 20 and 10 rpm were 0.92 and 0.89, and 0.99 and 0.98 for egg white and yolk, respectively. These results are of potential value for the design of ohmic pasteurization systems for fluid foods.

Practical applications

The applications of the findings of this study include but are not limited to: (a) utilize the measured electrical conductivity values at 20 kHz of egg whites and yolks for further studies; (b) predict the temperature and velocity profiles and distributions of liquid eggs during agitated ohmic pasteurization processes using the developed 3D computer simulation model; (c) evaluate improvements in temperature uniformity, pasteurization efficiency, and quality retention by fine‐tuning processing parameters as evaluated in this study; and (d) use the design and the conducted analysis of agitated ohmic heating system of liquid eggs for developing novel pasteurization applications of fluid foods.
Happily retired! A consensual qualitative research to elaborate theory on resources' categorization, processes and caravans for successful retirement adjustment
Authors: Froidevaux Ariane , Curchod Géraldine , Degli‐Antoni Saskia , Maggiori Christian , Rossier Jérôme
Published: January 2024

Successfully adjusting to retirement, in terms of achieving psychological comfort with one's retirement life, represents a major challenge for older workers. Although current literature emphasizes that it may depend on the availability and fluctuation of specific resources, little is known about which types and how resources allow recent retirees to adjust to retirement. Drawing on the resource‐based dynamic model for retirement adjustment and conservation of resources theory, the current study aims to elaborate theory on resources' types, relative importance and combinations in caravans, and the processes through which they shape successful retirement adjustment. In a consensual qualitative research using abductive reasoning with recent retirees aged 66–69, we find four major resource types. We show that their importance varies (from the most important to the least: social interactions, life conditions, time management and individuality) and that they travel in caravans within a resource type. We further propose a model highlighting how these resources shape successful retirement adjustment through resources signal, conservation and acquisition processes. Overall, our findings offer theoretical and empirical contributions to the resource perspective on retirement adjustment and to conservation of resources theory's understanding of resources' categorization, processes and caravans.
Thermal Energy Storage Heat Exchanger Design: Overcoming Low Thermal Conductivity Limitations of Phase-Change Materials
Authors: Messenger Melissa A. , Manglik Raj M. , Boetcher Sandra K.S.
Published: January 2024

Recently, there has been a renewed interest in solid-to-liquid phase-change materials (PCMs) for thermal energy storage (TES) solutions in response to ambitious decarbonization goals. While PCMs have very high thermal storage capacities, their typically low thermal conductivities impose limitations on energy charging and discharging rates. Extensive research efforts have focused on improving PCM thermal conductivity through the incorporation of additives. However, this approach presents challenges such as achieving uniform mixtures, maintaining high latent heat, and cost. Alternatively, it has been demonstrated that, in this study, reducing the length scale of the PCM-encasement thickness can eliminate the low thermal conductivity effect of PCMs. To illustrate this concept, a one-dimensional PCM slab was numerically simulated. The thickness of the slab was varied to represent dimensions found in flow passages of compact heat exchangers, and the heat transfer coefficient of the heating fluid was varied to represent lower and upper bounds while also including nominal values encountered in air-to-air heat exchangers. The thermal conductivity was parametrically varied from the natural value of the PCM to simulated enhanced values (potentially achieved through additives) of up to 400 times larger. Results show that reducing the PCM-encasement thickness yields substantially better performance than by improving the thermal conductivity, thereby demonstrating the potential for compact heat exchanger design to overcome the PCM thermal conductivity limitations.
JAVELIN Anchor Adapted for Floating Offshore Wind
Authors: Kovacs Stéphane , Thies Philipp , Johanning Lars , Jones Alun , Spring Mark , Strong Philip
Published: January 2024

Anchoring and mooring systems are identified as a key area of innovation in the context of recent increasing demand in Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) installations.

This paper presents the technology assessment of the JAVELIN Anchor developed by Reflex Marine Ltd for FLOW application in the JAVELIN anchor demonstration program. The deepset JAVELIN Tensile anchor provides a competitive anchoring solution for FLOW installed with low cost work vessel and proven drilling technique.

Several design criteria have to be met: i) sufficient strength of the material in ultimate limit state and the fatigue limit state. ii) anchor design to have low installation and capital cost. iii) efficient in various type of geotechnical formation.

The strength of the material is analysed in finite element package, namely Ansys. A Tensile Member in Carbon Steel met the design requirement with a diameter 0.2 m for 1000 t application.

In addition, the maximum load cases are modeled in hydrodynamic software, namely Orcaflex to simulate the dynamics of the JAVELIN anchor for several sea state, soil resistance and mooring configurations, taking into account the coupled dynamics between wind turbine, floater and mooring systems. For water depths varying from 200–400 m, the tension values are lower than the load cases studied in the strength of the material.
Conceptual Design of a Tension Leg Platform With 22.3 MW Vertical Axis Turbine
Authors: Huang Edward , Ennis Brandon L. , Moore Kevin R. , Chen Xiaohong , Yu Qing , R. Arulmary
Published: January 2024

This paper presents the conceptual design of a tension leg platform (TLP) for the ARCUS “towerless” vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT). VAWTs are ideal for floating offshore sites and have several advantages over horizontal-axis wind turbines (HAWT) including reduced top mass, lower center of gravity, increased energy capture, and in turn lower cost. The towerless ARCUS VAWT drives these advantages further through increased structural efficiency and by enabling more optimized TLP designs with simplified installation procedures.

For hull sizing, we have studied three turbine sizes with corresponding power ratings of 5.1 MW, 10.4 MW and 22.3 MW. The largest turbine was identified as having the greatest potential to reduce the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and is the reference size used for the further detailed design process. The conceptual design of the VAWT TLP has been awarded with an ABS Approval in Principle Certificate.

This paper contains brief analysis results and design findings for a TLP designed to house a VAWT, including the following topics:

• Applicable Design Codes

• Metocean Conditions

• ARCUS Turbine Loads

• Design Load Cases and Requirements

- Pre-service TLP Stability

- In-place TLP Global Performance

• Platform Configurations, Hull Structure Scantling Design, Weight and CG Estimation, and General Arrangement Drawings

• Hull Ballast Plan for both Pre-service and In-place Conditions

• Pre-service Quayside Integration, Transportation and Wet Tow Stability Analysis

• Global Performance Analysis for Motions and Tendon tensions

• Summary of cost components and system levelized cost of energy
Numerical Investigation of a SPAR Type Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Platform Under Extreme Waves
Authors: Thomas Arya , V. K. Srineash , Behera Manasa Ranjan
Published: January 2024

The increase in the carbon footprint and growing environmental consciousness are driving the energy sector from conventional fossil fuels to renewable energies. Since oceans provide energies in the form of winds, waves, tides and currents, substantial research has been carried out recently to exploit the ocean renewable energy. Irrespective of the type of ocean renewable energy, it is essential to have an offshore platform for energy extraction from the ocean. The present study focuses on the hydrodynamics of a SPAR type offshore platform housing a wind turbine. The existing literatures show that the frequency of extreme waves like rogue/ freak waves has increased drastically. Therefore, it is also essential to consider and study the interaction of freak wave with the offshore wind energy platforms.

In this study, the freak wave impact on a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT) SPAR platform is studied using a potential flow theory based numerical model in the time domain. The numerical model is validated using past literature data and the freak wave-structure interaction (WSI) analysis is carried out. The motions of the SPAR FOWT, freak wave related air-gap effects are investigated. The present study aims to provide preliminary insights into the effect of freak wave impact on the design of FOWT.
Application of Uncrewed Surface Vessels Throughout the Life Span of Fixed and Floating Offshore Wind Farms
Authors: Newman Paul J. T. , Ashton Ian , Thies Phillipp , Johanning Lars , Berrabah Nassif , Pillai Ajit
Published: January 2024

The Offshore Wind sector is seeking to utilise Robotic and Uncrewed Systems (RUS) to help reduce the costs, emissions, and risks of harm to personal associated with the necessary survey and inspection works required over the whole life of fixed and floating offshore wind farms. New wind energy projects are being built in locations further from onshore support bases than previously, and this can impact the level of accessibility for routine and unplanned works, leading to increased use of offshore support vessels and a drive towards automating tasks if possible.

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of RUS technology to give potential adopters and end-users insight into how and why different RUS types may be required (working individually or cooperatively) across the whole life of a wind farm.

A review was conducted of the available RUS technology and its suitability for different tasks encountered throughout the initial development, construction, operation, and decommissioning of offshore wind farms. Uncrewed Surface Vehicles were identified as being both well-established multi-purpose data gathering platforms as well as being able to support other RUS above and below the waterline for survey and inspection roles, and considered that this RUS type represents a vital asset for the offshore wind farms of the future.
On the Use of Response Conditioned Focused Wave and Wind Events for the Prediction of Design Loads
Authors: Tosdevin Tom , Edwards Emma , Holcombe Anna , Brown Scott , Ransley Edward , Hann Martyn , Greaves Deborah
Published: January 2024

Reducing the time required to predict design loads and responses would result in significant efficiency improvements to the floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT) design process. Present methods of predicting design values require at least six, 1-hour sea condition simulations. It would therefore be highly beneficial to identify what conditions lead to the extremes of a range of responses of interest to reduce the length of the time series required. The results of physical, 1:70 scale model experiments using the UMaine VolturnUS-S platform and IEA 15MW reference wind turbine are presented. A Real-time hybrid testing approach, where wind loading is calculated via a surrogate model and reproduced by two on board fans is used to approximate the aerodynamic loads at model scale. The response spectra for several responses of interest are used to construct short wave and wind time series using a ‘conditional random response wave’ approach developed in ship design. These time series, the responses they produce, and their resulting design value estimates are compared to those from 1-hour-long, irregular wave, and turbulent wind time series. This comparison is conducted for operating conditions at rated wind speed corresponding to design load case (DLC) 1.6, and it is performed at a location in the Celtic Sea.
Wind Turbine Gust Control Using LIDAR-Assisted Model Predictive Control
Authors: Srikanth Reddy Yiza , Hur Sung-ho
Published: January 2024

Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR)-based wind measurement system, positioned forward-facing, can gather information about the approaching wind. It proactively enables the wind turbine to adjust its operation via the feedforward (FF) loop. LIDAR technology can enhance wind turbine performance throughout its entire operational range. It can assist in torque control when wind speeds are below the rated level and in pitch control when wind speeds exceed the rated level. In this study, Model Predictive Control (MPC) is utilized. Within the field of wind turbine research, MPC has garnered significant interest in recent years due to its capability to handle both input and output constraints and leverage advanced on disturbances caused by the incoming wind, measured by the LIDAR. In this study, an FF-MPC is designed and compared with a more standard feedback (FB) MPC. A comparison is conducted in realistic gust wind conditions, considering below and above-rated wind ranges. These comparisons are performed in a realistic, high-fidelity aeroelastic simulation environment, i.e., DNV BLADED. Both controllers are designed for the DNV BLADED Supergen 5 MW wind turbine model. The control algorithm is implemented in C++, compiled into a dynamic link library (DLL), and integrated as an external controller within the DNV BLADED to enable accurate, high-fidelity simulations. Simulation results are presented to demonstrate the superiority of FF-MPC over the standard FB-MPC.
Growth of CdS heterojunctions on Cd0.9Zn0.1Te single crystals with H2S
Authors: Yuan Hao , Tiedje T. , Chen Jingye , Wang Hui , Aitchison Brad , Kumar Pawan , Song Yuxin
Published: January 2024

Polished Cd0.9Zn0.1Te (CZT) single crystals have been exposed to dilute H2S in nitrogen at temperatures from 200 to 280 °C in order to produce a sulfide layer on the surface. The composition of the CZT surfaces before and after H2S exposure has been investigated by photoemission, x-ray absorption, cross-sectional SEM, and spectroscopic ellipsometry. At the highest temperature, H2S exposure removes surface oxides and depletes Te, leaving a CdS surface layer. CdS layers 60 nm thick have been grown with a 2 h exposure to H2S at 280 °C. Surfaces that are initially oxidized through ozone exposure are much more reactive with H2S than unintentionally oxidized surfaces.
Reducing preferred listening levels in headphones through coherent audiotactile stimulation
Authors: Liapikou Eirini , Marozeau Jeremy
Published: January 2024

Using headphones may expose the listener to potentially harmful levels of sound. This study examines whether introducing tactile vibrations to the listening experience would encourage them to reduce their headphone volume. Fifteen participants adjusted their preferred listening levels for four diverse music tracks under audio-only and audiotactile conditions. Results indicated a significant decrease in preferred audio levels with added tactile stimulation. This effect was particularly significant in songs featuring a strong beat. In contrast, only a minimal effect was observed for genres such as classical music, which typically lack a pronounced beat, at higher vibration intensities. These findings suggest that integrating tactile feedback could be a viable strategy for lowering sound exposure risk.
Factors Influencing Power-5 Football Coaches’ Recruiting Responsibilities: The Intersection of Race, Role, and Geography
Authors: Corr Chris , Atwater Christopher , Anders Allison D. , Stokowski Sarah
Published: January 2024

Football Bowl Subdivision football success (i.e., winning) is predicated on the ability to successfully recruit prospective athletes. Reflective of NCAA rules and regulations, assistant (i.e., position) coaches are relied upon to secure the enrollment of prospective athletes. Extant literature has established that Black position coaches are tasked with greater recruiting responsibilities than their White counterparts. Such tasking is indicative of a structural barrier limiting Black coaches’ opportunities for professional advancement. The present study sought to examine recruiting responsibilities among position coaches relative the demography of unique geographic areas they were assigned to recruit. Findings illustrate disproportionate responsibilities among racially dissimilar coaches.
Disruption of an ant-plant mutualism shapes interactions between lions and their primary prey
Authors: Kamaru Douglas N. , Palmer Todd M. , Riginos Corinna , Ford Adam T. , Belnap Jayne , Chira Robert M. , Githaiga John M. , Gituku Benard C. , Hays Brandon R. , Kavwele Cyrus M. , Kibungei Alfred K. , Lamb Clayton T. , Maiyo Nelly J. , Milligan Patrick D. , Mutisya Samuel , Ng’weno Caroline C. , Ogutu Michael , Pietrek Alejandro G. , Wildt Brendon T. , Goheen Jacob R.
Published: January 2024

Mutualisms often define ecosystems, but they are susceptible to human activities. Combining experiments, animal tracking, and mortality investigations, we show that the invasive big-headed ant (
Pheidole megacephala
) makes lions (
Panthera leo
) less effective at killing their primary prey, plains zebra (
Equus quagga
). Big-headed ants disrupted the mutualism between native ants (
Crematogaster
spp.) and the dominant whistling-thorn tree (
Vachellia drepanolobium
), rendering trees vulnerable to elephant (
Loxodonta africana
) browsing and resulting in landscapes with higher visibility. Although zebra kills were significantly less likely to occur in higher-visibility, invaded areas, lion numbers did not decline since the onset of the invasion, likely because of prey-switching to African buffalo (
Syncerus caffer
). We show that by controlling biophysical structure across landscapes, a tiny invader reconfigured predator-prey dynamics among iconic species.
Accelerated evolution of chosen genes
Authors: Williams Rory L. , Liu Chang C.
Published: January 2024

Orthogonal replication enables rapid continuous biomolecular evolution in
Escherichia coli
Species-level resolution for the vaginal microbiota with short amplicons
Authors: Qing Wei , Shi Yiya , Chen Rongdan , Zou Yin'ai , Qi Cancan , Zhang Yingxuan , Zhou Zuyi , Li Shanshan , Hou Yi , Zhou Hongwei , Chen Muxuan
Published: January 2024

For vaginal microbiota studies, diverse 16S rRNA gene regions were applied for amplification and sequencing, which affect the comparability between different studies as well as the species-level resolution of taxonomic classification. We conducted comprehensive evaluation on the methods which influence the accuracy for the taxonomic classification and established an optimal pipeline to achieve high species-level resolution for vaginal microbiota with short amplicons, which will facilitate future studies.
Synthesis of Azole Derivatives of 1,2,3-Dithiazole-5-imines and Study of Their Fungicidal
Authors: Tsaplin G. V. , Bashkalova E. I. , Alekseenko A. L. , Popkov S. V.
Published: January 2024

A three-stage method was proposed for the synthesis of new 4-[4-(2-azolylethyl)piperazine-1-yl]-N-aryl-5H-1,2,3-dithiazole-5-imines. This approach includes the reaction of Appel salt with anilines to produce 1,2,3-dithiazole-5-imines, which were converted into 4-[(4-chloroethyl)piperazine-1-yl]-5H-1,2,3-dithiazole-5-imines, alkylating azoles at the final stage. The high fungicidal activity of target compounds and intermediate 4-chloro-N-aryl-1,2,3-dithiazole-5-imines was shown in vitro tests versus six species of phytopathogenic fungi.
Acute rehabilitation following traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation
(ARTISAN): pragmatic, multicentre, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Kearney Rebecca S , Ellard David R , Parsons Helen , Haque Aminul , Mason James , Nwankwo Henry , Bradley Helen , Drew Stephen , Modi Chetan , Bush Howard , Torgerson David , Underwood Martin
Published: January 2024

Objective

To assess the effects of an additional programme of physiotherapy in
adults with a first-time traumatic shoulder dislocation compared with
single session of advice, supporting materials, and option to self-refer
to physiotherapy.

Design

Pragmatic, multicentre, randomised controlled trial
(ARTISAN).

Setting and participants

Trauma research teams at 41 UK NHS Trust sites screened adults with
a first time traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation confirmed
radiologically, being managed non-operatively. People were excluded if
they presented with both shoulders dislocated, had a neurovascular
complication, or were considered for surgical management.

Interventions

One session of advice, supporting materials, and option to
self-refer to physiotherapy (n=240) was assessed against the same advice
and supporting materials and an additional programme of physiotherapy
(n=242). Analyses were on an intention-to-treat basis with secondary per
protocol analyses.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was the Oxford shoulder instability score (a
single composite measure of shoulder function), measured six months
after treatment allocation. Secondary outcomes included the QuickDASH,
EQ-5D-5L, and complications.

Results

482 participants were recruited from 40 sites in the UK. 354 (73%)
participants completed the primary outcome score (n=180 allocated to
advice only, n=174 allocated to advice and physiotherapy). Participants
were mostly male (66%), with a mean age of 45 years. No significant
difference was noted between advice compared with advice and a programme
of physiotherapy at six months for the primary intention-to-treat
adjusted analysis (between group difference favouring physiotherapy 1.5
(95% confidence interval −0.3 to 3.5)) or at earlier three month and six
week timepoints. Complication profiles were similar across the two
groups (P>0.05).

Conclusions

An additional programme of current physiotherapy is not superior to
advice, supporting materials, and the option to self-refer to
physiotherapy.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trialsisrctn63184243.
Pragmatic Adaptive Trial for Respiratory Infection in Children (PATRIC) Clinical Registry protocol
Authors: Pavlos Rebecca , Bhuiyan Mejbah U , Jones Mark , Oakes Daniel , O'Brien Sharon , Borland Meredith L , Doyle Sarah , Richmond Peter , Martin Andrew C , Snelling Thomas L , Blyth Christopher C
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Acute respiratory infections (ARI) are the most common cause of paediatric hospitalisation. There is an urgent need to address ongoing critical knowledge gaps in ARI management. The Pragmatic Adaptive Trial for Respiratory Infections in Children (PATRIC) Clinical Registry will evaluate current treatments and outcomes for ARI in a variety of paediatric patient groups. The registry will provide a platform and data to inform a number of PATRIC clinical trials, testing various interventions in ARI treatment and management to optimise paediatric ARI care.

Methods and analysis

The PATRIC Clinical Registry is a single-centre, prospective observational registry recruiting from a tertiary paediatric Emergency Department in Western Australia. Through characterising demographic, clinical, treatment and outcome data, the PATRIC Clinical Registry will improve our understanding of antibiotic utilisation and ARI outcomes in children.

Ethics and dissemination

The PATRIC Clinical Registry is conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki, and the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) Guidelines for Good Clinical Practice (CPMP/ICH/13595) July 1996. Approval is provided by the Child and Adolescent Health Service Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC). Study results will be communicated by presentation and publication (HREC: RGS0000003078.)

Trial registration number

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12619000903189. UTN: U1111-1231-3365.
Drug therapies for obstructive sleep apnoea: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Nobre Maria Luisa , Sarmento Ayane Cristine Alves , Medeiros Kleyton Santos , Serquiz Nicoli , Júnior José Diniz , Gonçalves Ana Katherine
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a common disorder that can affect the quality of life and increase the risk for psychiatric, neurological and cardiometabolic diseases. Despite the significant burden, it poses on health and well-being, there is a lack of evidence regarding the use of drug therapies in these patients. This work aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmacological treatment alternatives for patients with OSA.

Methods and analysis

Databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, SciELO, LILACS, Scopus, Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials and ClinicalTrials.gov, will be used for the search. A search strategy was developed to retrieve clinical trials that have evaluated polysomnographic primary outcome (Apnoea-Hypopnoea index) and secondary outcomes (eg, daytime sleepiness, adverse events) of any drug therapy used for OSA. No date or language restrictions will be applied. Two authors will independently select the studies meeting the inclusion criteria by screening the title, abstract and full text. Data will be extracted, and the risk of bias will be evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Review Manager V.5.4.1 will be used for data synthesis. The Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation will be used to assess the strength of the evidence.

Ethics and dissemination

As a review of published data, it is not necessary to obtain ethical approval. The findings of this systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022362639.
Multicentre, open-label, randomised, controlled trial to compare early intervention with calcimimetics and conventional therapy in preventing coronary artery calcification in patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism (UPCOMING): a study protocol
Authors: Inaguma Daijo , Tatematsu Yoshitaka , Okamoto Naoki , Ogata Soshiro , Kawai Hideki , Watanabe Eiichi , Yuzawa Yukio , Hasegawa Midori , Tsuboi Naotake
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Coronary artery and heart valve calcification is a risk factor for cardiovascular death in haemodialysis patients, so calcification prevention should be started as early as possible. Treatment with concomitant calcimimetics and low-dose vitamin D receptor activators (VDRAs) is available, but not enough evidence has been obtained on the efficacy of this regimen, particularly in patients with short dialysis duration. Therefore, this study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of early intervention with upacicalcet, a calcimimetic used to prevent coronary artery calcification in this patient population.

Methods and analysis

This multicentre, open-label, randomised, parallel-group controlled study will compare an early intervention group, which received upacicalcet and a low-dose VDRA, with a conventional therapy group, which received a VDRA. The primary endpoint is a change in log coronary artery calcium volume score from baseline to 52 weeks. The main inclusion criteria are as follows: (1) age 18 years or older; (2) dialysis is planned or dialysis duration is less than 60 months; (3) intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) >240 pg/mL or whole PTH level>140 pg/mL; (4) serum-corrected calcium≥8.4 mg/dL and (5) Agatston score >30. The main exclusion criteria are as follows: (1) history of parathyroid intervention or fracture in the past 12 weeks; (2) history of myocardial infarction, stroke or leg amputation in the past 12 weeks; (3) history of coronary angioplasty and (4) heart failure of New York Heart Association class III or worse.

Ethics and dissemination

The study will comply with the Declaration of Helsinki and the Japanese Clinical Trials Act. The study protocol has been approved by the Fujita Health University Certified Review Board (file no. CR22-052). Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. Study results will be presented in academic meetings and peer-reviewed academic journals.

Trial registration number

jRCTs041220126.
Observational cohort investigating health outcomes and healthcare costs after metabolic and bariatric surgery: a study protocol
Authors: Gershuni Victoria , Wall-Wieler Elizabeth , Liu Yuki , Zheng Feibi , Altieri Maria S
Published: January 2024

Introduction

As the rate of obesity increases, so does the incidence of obesity-related comorbidities. Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is the most effective treatment for obesity, yet this treatment is severely underused. MBS can improve, resolve, and prevent the development of obesity-related comorbidities; this improvement in health also results in lower healthcare costs. The studies that have examined these outcomes are often limited by small sample sizes, reliance on outdated data, inconsistent definitions of outcomes, and the use of simulated data. Using recent real-world data, we will identify characteristics of individuals who qualify for MBS but have not had MBS and address the gaps in knowledge around the impact of MBS on health outcomes and healthcare costs.

Methods and analysis

Using a large US employer-based retrospective claims database (Merative), we will identify all obese adults (21+) who have had a primary MBS from 2016 to 2021 and compare their characteristics and outcomes with obese adults who did not have an MBS from 2016 to 2021. Baseline demographics, health outcomes, and costs will be examined in the year before the index date, remission and new-onset comorbidities, and healthcare costs will be examined at 1 and 3 years after the index date.

Ethics and dissemination

As this was an observational study of deidentified patients in the Merative database, Institutional Review Board approval and consent were exempt (in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Privacy Rule). An IRB exemption was approved by the wcg IRB (#13931684). Knowledge dissemination will include presenting results at national and international conferences, sharing findings with specialty societies, and publishing results in peer-reviewed journals. All data management and analytic code will be made available publicly to enable others to leverage our methods to verify and extend our findings.
Role of machine learning in the management of epilepsy: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Chang Richard Shek-kwan , Nguyen Shani , Chen Zhibin , Foster Emma , Kwan Patrick
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Machine learning is a rapidly expanding field and is already incorporated into many aspects of medicine including diagnostics, prognostication and clinical decision-support tools. Epilepsy is a common and disabling neurological disorder, however, management remains challenging in many cases, despite expanding therapeutic options. We present a systematic review protocol to explore the role of machine learning in the management of epilepsy.

Methods and analysis

This protocol has been drafted with reference to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) for Protocols. A literature search will be conducted in databases including MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science. A PRISMA flow chart will be constructed to summarise the study workflow. As the scope of this review is the clinical application of machine learning, the selection of papers will be focused on studies directly related to clinical decision-making in management of epilepsy, specifically the prediction of response to antiseizure medications, development of drug-resistant epilepsy, and epilepsy surgery and neuromodulation outcomes. Data will be extracted following the CHecklist for critical Appraisal and data extraction for systematic Reviews of prediction Modelling Studies checklist. Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool will be used for the quality assessment of the included studies. Syntheses of quantitative data will be presented in narrative format.

Ethics and dissemination

As this study is a systematic review which does not involve patients or animals, ethics approval is not required. The results of the systematic review will be submitted to peer-review journals for publication and presented in academic conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023442156.
Effects of a multicomponent physical activity programme, Mobility-Fit, compared with a standard care lower limb strengthening programme, to promote safe mobility among older adults in care facilities: protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Yang Yijian , Zeng Ziwei , van Schooten Kimberley S , Sum Raymond Kim-wai , Shen Jiahao , Ho Cheuk-yin , Chan Ka-po , Cheong Debbie
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Upper limb and core strength training is essential for older adults to safely perform daily activities. However, existing exercise programmes mainly focus on lower limb strength and are not designed or delivered to suit people with different functional capacities. This study describes the design of a two-arm cluster randomised controlled trial to examine the effects of a multicomponent physical activity (PA) programme, Mobility-Fit, on mobility and frailty in older adults living in care facilities.

Methods and analysis

160 older adults from 20 care facilities in Hong Kong will be recruited and randomised by care facilities (1:1) to an intervention or a control group. Participants in the intervention group will attend the Mobility-Fit programme, led by facility-based instructors, three times per week, 45 min per session, for 12 weeks, while the control group will participate in a standard care lower limb strengthening programme offered by the care facility. Participants will then be followed up for 9 months. Mobility-Fit comprises agility, postural coordination, balance and strength training, with suitable dosage based on participant’s baseline physical and cognitive function. The primary outcomes encompass upper and lower limb strength, trunk stability, reaction time, mobility function and fall efficacy. Secondary outcomes comprise daily PA level and performance, frailty, cognitive function and quality of life. A repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and generalised estimating equation (GEE) will be used to examine changes in outcomes over time and between groups. Data will be analysed following the intention-to-treat principles. We will also evaluate programme implementation and health economics throughout the follow-up period.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was acquired in November 2022 from the Joint CUHK-NTEC Clinical Research Ethics Committee in Hong Kong (CREC-2022-459). Informed consent will be obtained from participants. The results of the study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed articles, conference presentations and social media.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300072709.
Liver abnormalities following SARS-CoV-2 infection in children 1 to 10 years of age
Authors: Terebuh Pauline , Olaker Veronica R , Kendall Ellen K , Kaelber David C , Xu Rong , Davis Pamela B
Published: January 2024

Objective

Beginning in October 2021 in the USA and elsewhere, cases of severe paediatric hepatitis of unknown aetiology were identified in young children. While the adenovirus and adenovirus-associated virus have emerged as leading aetiological suspects, we attempted to investigate a potential role for SARS-CoV-2 in the development of subsequent liver abnormalities.

Design

We conducted a study using retrospective cohorts of deidentified, aggregated data from the electronic health records of over 100 million patients contributed by US healthcare organisations.

Results

Compared with propensity score matched children with other respiratory infections, children aged 1–10 years with COVID-19 had a higher risk of elevated transaminases (HR (95% CI) 2.16 (1.74 to 2.69)) or total bilirubin (HR (95% CI) 3.02 (1.91 to 4.78)), or new diagnoses of liver diseases (HR (95% CI) 1.67 (1.21 to 2.30)) from 1 to 6 months after infection. Patients with pre-existing liver abnormalities, liver abnormalities surrounding acute infection, younger age (1–4 years) or illness requiring hospitalisation all had similarly elevated risk. Children who developed liver abnormalities following COVID-19 had more pre-existing conditions than those who developed abnormalities following other infections.

Conclusion

These results indicate that SARS-CoV-2 may prime the patient for subsequent development of liver infections or non-infectious liver diseases. While rare (~1 in 1000), SARS-CoV-2 is a risk for subsequent abnormalities in liver function or the diagnosis of diseases of the liver.
Peer support-based online education, burden of care and quality of life among family caregivers of patients with leukaemia: non-randomised clinical trial
Authors: Keramatikerman Mehrnaz , Varaei Shokoh , Vaezi Mohammad , Sayadi Leila
Published: January 2024

Objective

The responsibility of caring for patients with leukaemia places a heavy burden on family caregivers (FCs) and negatively impacts their quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to investigate the effects of peer support (PS)-based online education programme on the burden of care (BoC) and QoL of FCs of patients with leukaemia.

Methods

This before-after study involved a total of 80 eligible FCs of patients with leukaemia (40 individuals per group). The participants received the necessary information from a researcher and peers through online sessions and WhatsApp group. To collect data, the Zarit Burden Interview and the Caregiver Quality of Life Index-Cancer (CQOLC) had been been completed once before the intervention and once 1 month after the intervention.

Results

There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding baseline variables except the mean BoC that was significantly higher in the intervention group (IG) (p<0.001). However, after controlling for the effects of confounding variables, the mean BoC score of participants in IG was significantly lower than that of the control group (p<0.001). Additionally, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of CQOLC before (p=0.178) and after (p=0.538) the intervention.

Conclusion

The PS-based online education programme had a positive impact on reducing the care burden of FCs of patients with leukaemia. This programme can effectively reduce costs, particularly during emergencies and crises such as pandemics, as it eliminates the need for FCs and peers to physically visit hospitals.

Registration

The study was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials on 18 July 2021 (IRCT registration number: IRCT20210507051209N1).
The null circular geodesic outside the spherically symmetric asymptotically flat hairy black hole is not stable
Authors: Mazharimousavi S. Habib
Published: January 2024

In this study, we explicitly prove that the null circular orbit outside the spherically symmetric asymptotically flat hairy black hole is not stable. Although, if there is more than one external light ring at least one of them is stable. The existence of such geodesics has been proved in the recent work of Hod as well as Peng whereas its stability was left uncommented.
New anisotropic Gauss–Bonnet black holes in five dimensions at the critical point
Authors: Peng Yuxuan
Published: January 2024

We obtain new vacuum static black hole solutions with anisotropic horizons in Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet gravity with a negative cosmological constant in five dimensions. The translational invariance along one direction on the 3-dimensional horizon cross section is broken. The Gauss–Bonnet coupling $$\alpha $$
α
is at the critical point where there is one single AdS vacuum. These solutions does not appear in the form of a warped product, i.e. they lack a common warping factor, and the metric contains 2 arbitrary functions, h(r) of the radial coordinate r and H(y) of the horizon coordinate y – some degeneracy in the metric. The nontrivial horizon and the degeneracy may be closely related to the critical value of $$\alpha $$
α
. We introduce the process of obtaining the solutions and some of their properties, and also prove a uniqueness theorem for the case when there is a common warping factor for the rest two directions.