bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delineation of oil–water contact within Tipam reservoir: A study from Upper Assam Basin, North‐East India
Authors: Kumar Jitender , Kumar Priyadarshi Chinmoy , Sain Kalachand
Published: May 2023

Fluid contacts within a reservoir can vary either because of compartmentalization by faults, lithological variations, hydrocarbon fill history or changes in the hydrodynamic activity of fluids. Their detailed interpretation is significant for estimating potential reserves and developing an explored hydrocarbon field. This study uses high‐quality three‐dimensional (3D) seismic reflection data to decipher the fluid contact zones and their types from the well‐known Tipam reservoir in the petroliferous Upper Assam foreland basin. Different seismic attributes are used to understand the seismic response of fluids and associated structures that structurally control the reservoir geometry. Fluid contact analysis is performed by amalgamating these responses within the target interval. The analysis indicates that the south‐west part of the reservoir is a promising hydrocarbon‐bearing zone and consists of oil–water contacts. These contacts possess a dominant trend of NE–SW within the reservoir. Further, a decreasing trend in the density, velocity and an increasing trend in the resistivity and porosity logs of the wellbore SC‐2 calibrates these inferences and confirms the presence of oil‐bearing zones underlain by water in the SW part of the Tipam reservoir. Thus, the Upper Assam foreland basin is a promising area for hydrocarbon exploration, in which Mid‐Miocene sequences are the potential leads that can be unlocked. The analysis presented through this research could be efficiently and similarly carried out in onshore basins worldwide.
Potentially inappropriate medications use in a psychiatric elderly care hospital: A cross‐sectional study using Beers criteria
Authors: Yaghi Gracia , Chahine Bahia
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) carry risks that outweigh any potential benefits when compared to safer or more effective alternative treatments. Adverse drug events are more likely to occur in older adults with psychiatric diseases due to multimorbidity, polypharmacy, and age‐related changes in drug pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and risk factors of PIM use in an aged care hospital's psychogeriatric division, using the American Geriatrics Society Beers criteria 2019.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted on all current inpatients, having a mental disorder and aged ≥65 years, in one elderly care hospital in Beirut, from March to May 2022. Medications, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were collected from patients' medical records. PIMs were evaluated based on Beers criteria 2019. Independent variables were described using descriptive statistics. Factors associated with PIM use were identified by bivariate analysis followed by binary logistic regression. A two‐sided p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The study included 147 patients, with a mean age of 76.3 years, 46.9% of them having schizophrenia, 68.7% using 5 or more drugs and 90.5% taking at least 1 PIM. The most prescribed PIMs were antipsychotics (40.2%), anticholinergics (16%), and antidepressants (7.8%). PIM use was significantly associated with polypharmacy (AOR = 20.88, 95% CI: 1.22−357.87, p = 0.04) and anticholinergic cognitive burden (ACB) score (AOR = 7.25, 95% CI: 1.13−46.52, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

PIMs were highly prevalent among hospitalized Lebanese psychiatric elderly. Polypharmacy and ACB score were the determinants of PIM use. A multidisciplinary medication review led by a clinical pharmacist could reduce PIM use.
Natural convective heat transfer and fluid flow in a porous medium filled corrugated enclosure: Effect of discrete heat sources
Authors: Choudhary Pankaj , Ray Rajendra K.
Published: May 2023

In this work, we investigate the two‐dimensional unsteady natural convective fluid flow problem in a porous‐corrugated enclosure with a fixed sinusoidal heated upper wall. The corrugations of the enclosure are discretely heated while vertical walls are maintained isothermally cold. Subject to where the heat sources are located, five different cases are taken into consideration. The vorticity–streamfunction equations are discretized using a transformation‐free higher order compact approach, and the hybrid BiCGSTAB technique is used to solve the system of algebraic equations that derives from the numerical discretization. To validate our findings, we first compare them to previously published numerical and experimental data. The numerically simulated outcomes are then examined over a variety of essential parameters, such as the Darcy (10−5 ≤ Da ≤ 10−1), Rayleigh (103 ≤ Ra ≤ 106), and Prandtl (0.1 ≤ Pr ≤ 10) numbers. Symmetric and asymmetric fluid flow phenomena are observed. Asymmetric flow phenomenon can be caused by miscible or non‐miscible movements of lighter fluids by heavier fluids, or almost exclusively by nonuniform buoyancy‐driven forces caused by density variations that have arisen because of variations in fluid temperature. The averaged Nusselt value for Case 1 and Case 5 exhibits the highest percentage ratio. The thermal boundary layer is strongly affected by compression, dispersion, suppression, the zone of stratification, and the outweighing of isotherms. The simulated results are visualized by stream functions, isotherms, local and averaged Nusselt number plots.
Association of Preterm Birth and Low Birthweight with Bone Fractures during Childhood
Authors: Kuitunen Ilari , Sund Reijo , Sankilampi Ulla
Published: May 2023

Preterm birth and low birthweight have been associated with increased fracture risk in children. Our aim was to analyze bone fractures during childhood in preterm, and low‐birthweight newborns compared to full‐term and normal‐birthweight newborns. We conducted a nationwide register‐based cohort study in Finland from 1998 to 2017 and utilized the Medical Birth Register and Care Register for Health Care. All newborns alive 28 days after birth were included, and data on all fracture visits in specialized healthcare units were gathered. Incidences per 100,000 person‐years with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated, and comparisons were made by incidence rate ratios (IRRs). Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to analyze the timing of fractures during childhood (0–20 years). We included a total of 997,468 newborns and 95,869 fractures; the mean follow‐up was 10.0 years, and the overall incidence of fractures was 963 per 100,000 person‐years. Very preterm (<32 gestational weeks) newborns had 23% lower fracture incidence than term newborns (IRR 0.77; CI: 0.70–0.85). Preterm newborns (32 to 36 gestational weeks) had a fracture rate (IRR 0.98; CI: 0.95–1.01) similar to that of term newborns. Birthweight showed a linear increase in the fracture rates as newborns with birthweight less than 1000 g had the lowest fracture incidence of 773 per 100,000 person‐years and the highest incidence (966 per 100,000 person‐years) was among newborns with birthweight 2500 g or more. Children born very preterm or with extremely low birthweight have in general a lower fracture incidence during childhood compared to children born full term and with normal birthweight. These findings possibly reflect, in addition to improvements of neonatal intensive care and early nutrition, the fact that childhood fracture incidences are more dependent on issues other than early life events. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
miR‐196b‐5p Regulates Osteoblast and Osteoclast Differentiation and Bone Homeostasis by Targeting SEMA3A
Authors: Xie Yan , Zhou Jie , Tian Lijie , Dong Yuan , Yuan Hairui , Zhu Endong , Li Xiaoxia , Wang Baoli
Published: May 2023

miR‐196b‐5p plays a role in various malignancies. We have recently reported its function in regulating adipogenesis. However, it remains to be clarified whether and how miR‐196b‐5p affects bone cells and bone homeostasis. In this study, in vitro functional experiments showed an inhibitory effect of miR‐196b‐5p on osteoblast differentiation. Mechanistic explorations revealed that miR‐196b‐5p directly targeted semaphorin 3a (Sema3a) and inhibited Wnt/β‐catenin signaling. SEMA3A attenuated the impaired osteogenesis induced by miR‐196b‐5p. Osteoblast‐specific miR‐196b transgenic mice showed significant reduction of bone mass. Trabecular osteoblasts were reduced and bone formation was suppressed, whereas osteoclasts, marrow adipocytes, and serum levels of bone resorption markers were increased in the transgenic mice. The osteoblastic progenitor cells from the transgenic mice had decreased SEMA3A levels and exhibited retarded osteogenic differentiation, whereas those marrow osteoclastic progenitors exhibited enhanced osteoclastogenic differentiation. miR‐196b‐5p and SEMA3A oppositely regulated the expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand and osteoprotegerin. The calvarial osteoblastic cells expressing the transgene promoted osteoclastogenesis, whereas the osteoblasts overexpressing Sema3a inhibited it. Finally, in vivo transfection of miR‐196b‐5p inhibitor to the marrow reduced ovariectomy‐induced bone loss in mice. Our study has identified that miR‐196b‐5p plays a key role in osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation and regulates bone homeostasis. Inhibition of miR‐196b‐5p may be beneficial for amelioration of osteoporosis. © 2023 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Early life adversity in dogs produces altered physiological and behavioral responses during a social stress‐buffering paradigm
Authors: Buttner Alicia P. , Awalt Samantha L. , Strasser Rosemary
Published: May 2023

Although owners can act as stress buffers for their dogs, whether dogs with poor early life histories with humans will respond similarly is unknown. We tested 45 dogs, 23 of which were rescued from adverse conditions, in a social paradigm in which a threatening stranger confronted them with either their owner or an unfamiliar human present. Salivary cortisol levels were assessed at three points, and the dogs' behavior and owners' responses to questionnaires were evaluated. Dogs from adverse backgrounds engaged in greater contact and exhibited more relaxed behaviors and social referencing when their owners were present. Dogs from the comparison group explored more when accompanied by their owners. Dogs from adverse backgrounds experienced greater decreases in cortisol levels from the first to third samples relative to dogs in the comparison group. Dogs from adverse backgrounds were also more likely to respond fearfully to a threatening stranger. Their owners rated them as having higher levels of stranger‐directed fear, nonsocial fear, separation‐related problems, attention seeking, and lower levels of chasing and trainability. These findings from this study suggest that early adverse environments may have lasting effects on dogs' social behavior.
Absence of secondary osteons in femora of aged rats: Implications of lifespan on Haversian remodeling in mammals
Authors: Lad Susan E.
Published: May 2023

Bone is a dynamic tissue capable of adapting to its loading environment, allowing the skeleton to remain structurally sound throughout life. One way adaptation occurs in mammals is via Haversian remodeling: the site‐specific, coupled resorption and formation of cortical bone that results in secondary osteons. Remodeling occurs at a baseline rate in most mammals, but it also occurs in relation to strain by repairing deleterious microdamage. Yet, not all animals with bony skeletons remodel. Among mammals, there is inconsistent or absent evidence for Haversian remodeling among monotremes, insectivores, chiropterans, cingulates, and rodents. Three possible explanations for this disparity are discussed: the capacity for Haversian remodeling, body size as a constraint, and age and lifespan as constraints. It is generally accepted, although not thoroughly documented, that rats (a common model used in bone research) do not typically exhibit Haversian remodeling. The present aim is to more specifically test the hypothesis that rats of advanced age do remodel intracortically because of the longer lifespan over which baseline remodeling could occur. Most published histological descriptions of rat bone only include young (3–6 months) rats. Excluding aged rats possibly overlooks a transition from modeling (i.e., bone growth) to Haversian remodeling as the primary mode of bone adaptation. Here, midshaft and distal femora (typical sites for remodeling in other mammals) of 24‐month‐old rats were examined for presence of secondary osteons. None were found, suggesting that Haversian remodeling does not occur in rats under normal physiological conditions at any age. A likely explanation is that modeling of cortical bone continues throughout most of the short rat lifespan, negating the stimulus for Haversian remodeling. Thorough sampling of key rodent taxa of varying body sizes and lifespans is key to elucidating the reasons why (i.e., body size, age/lifespan, phylogenetic factors) Haversian remodeling might not occur in all mammals.
Glycemic Status and Myocardial Strain by Cardiac MRI in Patients With ST‐Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Guo Yingying , Guo Qian , Guo Ruifeng , Yan Yan , Gong Wei , Zheng Wen , Wang Hui , Xu Lei , Wang Xiao , Nie Shaoping
Published: May 2023

Background

It is uncertain how various degree of glycemic status affect left ventricular (LV) myocardial strain in ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI).

Purpose

To investigate the relationship of glycemic status and myocardial strain in STEMI patients.

Study Type

Prospective cohort study.

Population

282 STEMI patients with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging 5 ± 2 days post‐PPCI. Patients were divided into three groups based on the level of glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (group 1: HbA1c < 5.7%; group 2: 5.7% ≤ HbA1c < 6.5%; group 3: HbA1c ≥ 6.5%).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0‐T; late gadolinium enhancement, balanced steady‐state free precession cine sequence, black blood fat‐suppressed T2‐weighted.

Assessment

LV function, myocardial strain, and infarct characteristics (infarct size, microvascular obstruction, and intramyocardial hemorrhage) were compared among the three groups by one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) or Wilcoxon rank sum test. Intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility of LV myocardial strain was evaluated.

Statistical Tests

ANOVA or Wilcoxon rank sum test, Pearson chi‐square or Fisher's exact test, Spearman's correlation analyses and multivariable linear regression analysis. A two‐tailed P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Infarct characteristics were similar among the three groups (P = 0.934, P = 0.097, P = 0.533, respectively). Patients with HbA1c ≥ 6.5% had decreased LV myocardial strain compared with HbA1c 5.7%–6.4%, as evidenced by global radial (GRS), global circumferential (GCS), and global longitudinal (GLS) strain. However, no significant differences in myocardial strain were observed between patients with HbA1c 5.7%–6.4% and HbA1c < 5.7% (P = 0.716; P = 0.294; P = 0.883, respectively). After adjustment for confounders, HbA1c as a continuous variable (beta coefficient [β] = −0.676; β = 0.172; β = 0.205, respectively) and HbA1c ≥ 6.5% (β = −3.682; β = 0.552; β = 0.681, respectively) were both independently associated with decreased GRS, GCS, and GLS.

Data Conclusion

Patients with uncontrolled blood glucose (categorized in group HbA1c ≥ 6.5%) had worse myocardial strain. The level of HbA1c appeared to be independently associated with decreased myocardial strain in STEMI patients.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Interannual variation of the onset of the Tibetan Plateau rainy season and its relationship with the sea surface temperature in the North Pacific
Authors: Wang Zunya , Jiang Xingwen , Ke Zongjian , Song Yafang
Published: May 2023

The onset of the Tibetan Plateau rainy season (OTPRS) marks the transition from dry season to wet season in situ, which has a great impact on the water cycle and atmospheric heating in extensive areas. This analysis found that the earlier OTPRS is controlled by the weakened westerly wind, a dipole vortex pair with an anomalous anti‐cyclone over Lake Baikal but an anomalous cyclone over the Tibetan Plateau, the intensified southerly water vapour transportation on the southern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, the active convection and the increased humidity over the Tibetan Plateau in spring. And the opposite circulation anomalies correspond to the later OTPRS. The interannual variation in the OTPRS is closely related to sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) in the North Pacific in the previous winter, with the opposite phase between the ‘tongue’ extending eastward from the China East Sea and the surrounding ‘semi‐circle’ in the east. This pattern features the third leading mode of the winter SSTA in the North Pacific and can persist to spring. The vertical motion, convergence and divergence associated with the direct thermal effect from the significant SSTA centres in the southeastern and northwestern North Pacific form two opposite zonal circulation circles along 30°N. The zonal circulation circles bridge the SSTA in the North Pacific and the circulation anomalies over the Tibetan Plateau and have a delayed impact on convection over the Tibetan Plateau, thereby affecting the OTPRS.
Current monitoring and treatment for anal intraepithelial neoplasms
Authors: Ramirez Ray , Donohue Kristen
Published: May 2023

Anal intraepithelial neoplasms (AIN) are precursors to anal cancer. To date, there is not a significant body of literature to support screening, monitoring, and treatment of these precursor lesions, particularly in high risk populations. This review will detail the current monitoring and indications for treatment of such lesions, with the goal of preventing progression to invasive cancer.
Coastal acidification alters estuarine sediment nitrous oxide and methane fluxes
Authors: Mazur Claudia I. , Fulweiler Robinson W.
Published: May 2023

The impact of coastal acidification on sediment nitrous oxide (N2O) and methane (CH4) fluxes is largely unknown. We exposed temperate estuarine sediments to moderate (pH 7.3) and extreme (pH 6.3) acidification. Sediments were collected from two sites—one exposed to high and the other to low nitrogen loading. We demonstrate that low pH has a strong effect on greenhouse gas fluxes. The response, in terms of both magnitude and direction, was site specific. Sediments from the high nitrogen loading site exhibited increased N2O fluxes and decreased CH4 fluxes under moderate and extreme acidification. In contrast, sediments from the low nitrogen loading site exhibited decreased N2O fluxes under moderate and extreme acidification while CH4 fluxes both decreased (moderate) and increased (extreme). This study highlights the dynamic response of sediment N2O and CH4 fluxes to low pH and emphasizes the need for deeper understanding of ofcoastal acidification impacts on sediment biogeochemistry.
Programmable Optical Vernier‐Sampled Coherent Ranging
Authors: Bak Seongjin , Jang Hansol , Jung Min Uk , Kim Gyeong Hun , Jo Minsik , Lee Hwidon , Kim Chang‐Seok
Published: May 2023

Extended measurement ranges with coherent ranging necessitate an increase in the digitizer sampling rate. Subsampled coherent ranging can reduce the sampling rate, but it has been demonstrated in a short range below around 10 cm. Herein, programmable optical Vernier‐sampled coherent ranging over several tens of meters with a reduced sampling rate using a newly developed stepped‐frequency‐swept laser (stepped‐FSL) is proposed. The measurable range of three‐dimensional subsampled coherent ranging can be extended by increasing the coherence length of the stepped‐FSL. The proposed stepped‐FSL sequentially emits a discrete frequency output by applying a programmable voltage signal to an electro‐optic modulator. The free spectral range of the stepped‐FSL output can be rapidly and akinetically adjusted by changing the number of steps in the programmable voltage signal. The proposed system realizes an extended measurable range (over 20 m) and a high repetition rate (200 kHz). A low sampling rate of 10 MS s−1 is sufficient for operation at a subsampled interference frequency of 1 MHz. This rate is an order of magnitude lower than that of the conventional coherent ranging using an FSL. Experimental results demonstrate that the programmable optical Vernier‐sampled coherent ranging can be improved by leveraging novel optical subsampling with a stepped‐FSL.
Study on the corrosion‐wear behavior of Ni67.57Cr15.59Fe2.83C0.6Si3.98B3.47O0.045Mo2.97Co2.94 nickel alloy coating prepared by high velocity oxygen fuel spraying
Authors: Ho Kuo‐Chang , Sheu Hung‐Hua , Chang Jun‐Kai , Lin Hwai‐En , Lee Ya‐Wei , Hsiao Po‐Sen , Lee Hung‐Bin , Li Wen‐Ken
Published: May 2023

Ni‐based alloy coatings are sprayed on 304 stainless steel substrates using a high velocity oxygen fuel spraying (HVOF) method. The corrosion‐wear behavior was analyzed using a “block on ring” corrosion‐wear system. This study mainly discusses the effect of different applied potentials on corrosion and wear interaction using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results show that as the applied potential increases, the weight loss and corrosion current density of the nickel‐based alloy coating increase accordingly. Increasing the applied potential, the total loss of corrosion‐wear (Wtotal) of the coating increased significantly. Under high applied potential, the main factor for the serious damage is the interaction of corrosion and wear. In addition, the friction coefficient of the coating first increases and then decreases with increasing applied potential. The surface morphology of the passivation layer and the thickness of corrosion oxide can have an important influence on the corrosion‐wear process. Based on the XPS analysis results, the composition of the passive film formed on the surface of the coating in the process of corrosion‐wear includes NiO, Cr2O3, MoO2, and MoO42−.
The effect of perceived control on local consumption
Authors: Roy Arani , Mukherjee Ashesh
Published: May 2023

Local consumption improves the economic health of local communities and reduces the environmental impact of marketing activities, and hence it is important to understand factors that increase the likelihood of local consumption. Across eight studies in the laboratory and field, we show that the likelihood of local consumption increases as consumers' perceived control decreases with this effect being mediated by feelings of anticipated warm glow. We also identify two boundary conditions of this effect, namely perceived quality of the product and public self‐consciousness of the consumer. This research contributes to the literature in the following ways. First, it identifies perceived control as a novel self‐discrepancy‐based antecedent of the likelihood of local consumption. Second, it identifies anticipated warm glow as a novel affective mechanism underlying the effect of perceived control on the likelihood of local consumption. Third, it identifies perceived quality of the local product as a novel moderator of the effect of perceived control on the likelihood of local consumption. Fourth, it identifies public self‐consciousness of the consumer as another novel moderator of the effect of perceived control on the likelihood of local consumption. This research also contributes methodologically by demonstrating robustness of effects across a range of manipulations and measures including incentive‐compatible behavior and online behavior.
Efficient Cellulose Dissolution and Film Formation Enabled by Superbase Amino Acid Ionic Liquids
Authors: Zhao Junmeng , Ge Wenjiao , Shuai Jianbo , Gao Xiangli , Zhang Fengshan , Wang Xiaohui
Published: May 2023

Cellulose is a promising feedstock for the production of sustainable materials. To fully utilize its potential, exploring efficient cellulose solvents is a paramount prerequisite. In this study, ten superbase amino acid ionic liquids (SAAILs) are synthesized using 1,5‐diazabicyclo[4.3.0]non‐5‐ene (DBN) and 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene (DBU) with different amino acid anions via a simple neutralization method. The properties of these SAAILs, such as viscosity and glass transition temperature, varied with their cation and anion structures. The ability of the SAAILs to dissolve cellulose is related to their Kamlet–Taft parameters, particularly hydrogen bond basicity (β). The main driving force for cellulose dissolution in SAAILs is thought to be hydrogen bonding interactions between SAAILs and cellulose hydroxyl groups. Four SAAILs composed of DBN or DBU cations and proline, or aspartic acid anions are identified as promising solvents for preparing regenerated cellulose films (RCFs). The RCF prepared from [DBN]Proline(Pro) showed a favorable combination of high tensile strength (76.9 MPa), high Young's modulus (5201.2 MPa), good transparency (≈70% at 550 nm), and smooth surface morphology. These halogen‐ and metal‐free SAAILs show the potential to provide a new avenue for cellulose processing.
Fractional‐order models of hepatitis B virus infection with recycling effects of capsids
Authors: Sutradhar Rupchand , Dalal D. C.
Published: May 2023

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health concern throughout the world. It can be treated effectively through proper medication and vaccination, although it is very difficult to cure, especially in people who have had the chronic infection. So, it is necessary to pay proper attention for its eradication. In this study, two nonlinear fractional‐order HBV infection models with recycling effects of capsids are presented via the Caputo derivative. Each model contains four compartments, namely, susceptible hepatocytes, infected hepatocytes, HBV capsids, and viruses. In the first model, the order of fractional derivatives is equal for each compartment, whereas, in the second model, the order is incommensurate. The existence and uniqueness of solutions for both models are discussed separately. The parameters are estimated in order to validate the proposed model with experimental data obtained from a chimpanzee. Stability analyses are carried out for both models theoretically. The models are solved numerically using the predictor–corrector Adams–Bashforthm–Moulton method (for commensurate order) and implicit product integration of trapezoidal type method (for incommensurate order) with various choices of fractional orders and initial conditions. All the results are presented graphically. Interestingly, the results reveal the importance of fractional‐order derivatives in capturing the dynamics of HBV transmission in the host. It is also noticed that with the decrease in the order of fractional derivative, the peak level of infection decreases, but the disease takes a long time to be cured.
Selecting the optimal strategies when using nurse sows for supernumerous piglets
Authors: Bruun Thomas Sønderby , Pedersen Trine Friis , Thorup Flemming , Strathe Anja Varmløse
Published: May 2023

Hyper‐prolific sows frequently do not have a sufficient number of functional teats for their piglets to nurse which has led to the use of nurse sows to manage these surplus piglets. This review discusses strategies for using nurse sows and factors that influence preweaning survival and weight gain of their litters, as well as those that affect their subsequent rebreeding performance. Rearing piglets using a nurse sow can be as successful as piglets reared with their biological mother and is thus a powerful management tool to decrease preweaning piglet mortality. Selecting a young sow as nurse sow is beneficial for piglet survival; however, piglets nursing first parity sows often have a lower daily weight gain than piglets nursing multiparous sows. A litter of uniform surplus piglets is preferably handled using the two‐step nurse sow strategy. A consequence of nonuniform litters will most likely be an increased mortality and decreased weaning weight among the smallest piglets within a litter. The subsequent fertility of nurse sows is not compromised. There is an increased risk of lactational oestrus when using nurse sows leading to an increased weaning‐to‐oestrus interval; however, litter size in nurse sows is identical or even moderately higher in the subsequent parity compared with nonnurse sows.
An Adaptive Soft Sensor for On‐Line Monitoring the Mass Conversion in the Emulsion Copolymerization of the Continuous SBR Process
Authors: Sanseverinatti Carlos I. , Perdomo Mariano M. , Clementi Luis A. , Vega Jorge R.
Published: May 2023

Soft sensors (SS) are of importance in monitoring polymerization processes because numerous production and quality variables cannot be measured online. Adaptive SSs are of interest to maintain accurate estimations under disturbances and changes in operating points. This study proposes an adaptive SS to online estimate the mass conversion in the emulsion copolymerization required for the production of Styrene‐Butadiene rubber (SBR). The SS includes a bias term calculated from sporadic laboratory measurements. Typically, the bias is updated every time a new laboratory report becomes available, but this strategy leads to unnecessarily frequent bias updates. The SS includes a statistic‐based tool to avoid unnecessary bias updates and reduce the variability of the bias with respect to classical approaches. A control chart (CC) for individual determinations combined with an algorithmic Cusum is used to monitor the statistical stability of the average prediction error. The adaptive SS enables a bias update only when a loss of said statistical stability is detected. Several bias update methods are tested on a simulated industrial train of reactors for the latex production in the SBR process. The best results are obtained by combining the proposed CC‐based approach with a previously developed Bayesian bias update strategy.
Phase angle as a prognostic indicator in critically ill children: A systematic review
Authors: Oliveira Luna D. A. , Ventura Julia C. , Hauschild Daniela B. , Moreno Yara M. F.
Published: May 2023

Phase angle (PhA) may reflect the integrity of cellular membranes, hydration status, and total body cell mass. Studies have shown that PhA can be used as a good predictor for evaluation of disease severity in critically ill adults. However, there is a lack of studies assessing the association between PhA and clinical outcomes in critically ill children. This systematic review described the association between PhA at pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission with clinical outcomes in critically ill children. The search was conducted using PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE and LILACS until July 22, 2022. Studies that evaluate the association between PhA at PICU admission in critically ill children and clinical outcomes were eligible. Data regarding population, study design, setting, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) protocol used, PhA classification, and outcome analysis were extracted. Risk of bias was assessed by Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. Among the 4669 articles screened, five prospective studies were included. The studies have shown association between lower values of PhA at PICU admission with longer PICU and hospital length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, septic shock, and higher mortality risk. Small sample size, different clinical conditions, and methodological differences of the studies regarding BIA equipment and cutoffs of PhA were observed. Although the studies have limitations, the PhA has a potential role in predicting clinical outcomes in critically ill children. Larger studies with standardized PhA protocols and other relevant clinical outcomes are necessary.
A Scoping Review: Do instruments measuring genomic competence in nursing incorporate ethics?
Authors: Laaksonen Mari , Airikkala Elisa , Halkoaho Arja , Paavilainen Eija
Published: May 2023

Aim

To explore the instruments used in measuring genomic competence in nursing. The objective was to understand how ethical issues are reflected in the instruments.

Design

A scoping review.

Methods

A systematically conducted scoping review was conducted by using CINAHL Complete and Medline databases covering the years from January 2010 to January 2022. Two authors inspected potentially eligible papers and assessed their quality independently using the critical appraisal tools of Joanna Briggs Institute. Twenty‐five articles were eligible including 19 different instruments. Included articles answered the research question: “How ethical issues are reflected in instruments measuring genomic competence in nursing?” The inductive thematic analysis was used in this review.

Results

Descriptions of ethical themes were unstructured in the scoped articles and instruments. Not all genomic competence instruments covered ethical aspects. Only three studies asked direct questions by using the word ethics or its derivates, including confidentiality in solving ethical problems, familiarity with the ethical aspects of genetic counselling and ability to identify ethical issues. Thirteen articles included ethics‐related themes encompassing knowledge, skills, concerns, advantages and disadvantages.
Practical nursing students' learning and assessment during work‐based placement: A qualitative study
Authors: Virpi Välimaa , Anna‐Maria Tuomikoski , Kristina Mikkonen
Published: May 2023

Aim

To describe practical nursing students', mentors' and educators' perceptions of student learning and assessment of learning progress during work‐based learning.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

The research data were collected by interviewing eight practical nursing students, 12 mentors and eight educators (total n = 28) from three vocational institutions and four social‐ and health care organizations in Finland during November 2019–September 2020. The interviews were conducted as focus group interviews, after which the collected material was subjected to content analysis. The researchers had received appropriate research permits from the target organizations.

Results

Work‐based learning depends on the student, who must be goal‐oriented and responsible for their own learning. The mentor also plays a key role in the learning process as the supporter and enabler of a student's goal‐oriented learning process. The educator is responsible for instructing both students and mentors, and supporting a student's goal‐oriented learning process. The vocational institution also has a role in successful learning among practical nursing students as an enabler of students' individual learning process. The participants shared that the workplace is responsible for ensuring a secure learning environment.
Racial Disparity in Residual Sleep Apnea After Adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Fayson Shannon D. , Leis Aleda M. , Garetz Susan L. , Freed Gary L. , Kirkham Erin M.
Published: May 2023

Objective

Black children have a higher risk of residual obstructive sleep apnea after adenotonsillectomy than non‐Black children. We analyzed Childhood Adenotonsillectomy Trial data to better understand this disparity. We hypothesized that (1) child‐level factors, such as asthma, smoke exposure, obesity, sleep duration, and (2) socioeconomic factors, such as maternal education, maternal health, and neighborhood disadvantage, may confound, modify, or mediate the association between Black race and residual obstructive sleep apnea after adenotonsillectomy.

Study Design

Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Seven tertiary care centers.

Methods

We included two hundred and twenty‐four 5‐to‐9‐year‐olds with mild‐to‐moderate obstructive sleep apnea who underwent adenotonsillectomy. The outcome was residual obstructive sleep apnea 6 months after surgery. Data were analyzed with logistic regression and mediation analysis.

Results

Of 224 included children, 54% were Black. Compared with non‐Black children, Black children had 2.7 times greater odds of residual sleep apnea (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2, 6.1; p = .01), adjusted for age, sex, and baseline Apnea Hypopnea Index. There was significant effect modification by obesity. Among obese children, there was no association between Black race and outcome. However, nonobese Black children were 4.9 times as likely to have residual sleep apnea than non‐Black children (95% CI: 1.2, 20.0; p < 0.01). There was no significant mediation by any of the child‐level or socioeconomic factors tested.

Conclusion

There was substantial effect modification by obesity on the association between Black race and residual sleep apnea after adenotonsillectomy for mild‐to‐moderate sleep apnea. Black race was associated with poorer outcome among nonobese but not obese children.
Cross‐sectional study on stigma and motivation to adhere to lifestyle modification among vulnerable populations with fatty liver disease
Authors: Medina Sheyla P. , Kim Rebecca G. , Magee Catherine , Stapper Noah , Khalili Mandana
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Adherence to lifestyle modification (diet, exercise, and alcohol cessation) for fatty liver disease (FLD) management remains challenging. The study examined stigma, barriers, and factors associated with motivation to adhere to lifestyle modification in a diverse and vulnerable population with FLD.

Methods

From 2/19/2020 to 2/28/2022, 249 FLD patients within San Francisco safety‐net hepatology clinics were surveyed along with clinical data taken from medical records. Multivariable modeling assessed factors associated with motivation to adhere to lifestyle modification in a cross‐sectional study.

Results

Median age was 53 years, 59% female, 59% Hispanic, 25% Asian/Pacific Islander, 9% White, and 2% Black, 79% were non‐English speakers, 64% had ≤ high school education, and 82% reported <$30,000 annual income. Common comorbidities included hyperlipidemia (47%), hypertension (42%), diabetes (39%), and heavy alcohol use (22%). Majority (78%) reported experiencing stigma, 41% reported extreme motivation, and 58% reported ≥ two barriers. When controlling for age, sex, Hispanic ethnicity, alcohol consumption, BMI, >high school (coef 1.41, 95% CI 0.34–2.48), stigma (coef 0.34, 95% CI 0.07–0.62), and depression (coef −1.52, 95% CI ‐2.79 to −0.26) were associated with motivation.

Conclusions

Stigma is commonly reported among FLD patients. Interventions to enhance patient education and mental health support are critical to FLD management, especially in vulnerable populations.
Modeling of the curing kinetics of acrylate photopolymers for additive manufacturing
Authors: Setter Robert , Schmölzer Stefan , Rudolph Natalie , Moukhina Elena , Wudy Katrin
Published: May 2023

Next‐generation additive manufacturing (AM) processes such as multiphoton lithography and the fusion jetting (FJ) process demonstrate increasing demands toward temperature stability and a thoroughly understood curing behavior of acrylate photopolymers. This investigation targets the utilization of different kinetic models based on experimentally determined calorimetric results of different acrylate systems. The goal is to determine a holistic model that successfully describes the simultaneous dependency of the curing behavior on the temperature and the UV intensity. Two consecutive modeling strategies are investigated: a single measurement analysis followed by a clustered measurement analysis. In both cases, models based on the Kamal–Sourour method provide superior coefficients of determination above 0.99. First conclusions were drawn toward selected kinetic parameters, such as the temperature independence of the respective reaction orders. The model was then successfully utilized for first predictions of the curing behavior, demonstrating plausible progressions of the degree of cure for not experimentally determined UV intensities.
Effect of zinc oxide nanoparticle size on the dielectric properties of polypropylene‐based nanocomposites
Authors: Gao Junguo , Ju Huicheng , Yao Ziheng , Zhang Guangwei , Jiang Qiyuan , Guo Huanhuan
Published: May 2023

To develop new environmentally friendly and recyclable high‐voltage cable insulation materials, the effects of the particle size of zinc oxide (ZnO) on the mechanical and electrical properties of nanocomposites were investigated based on a feasibility study of polypropylene (PP) as a high‐performance cable insulation material. The small particle size of ZnO can synergistically toughen PP with a polyolefin elastomer (POE), but the large particle size of ZnO leads to lower elongation at break. Adding ZnO nanoparticles can improve the bulk resistivity of the composites and suppress space charge injection. 0.5ZnO200 has the highest direct current and alternating current breakdown field strengths, 36.6% and 14.7% higher than PP/POE, respectively. This improvement may be due to the ability of 200 nm ZnO to introduce more deep traps. However, as the nanoparticle content rises and the particle size decreases, the agglomeration becomes more frequent, leading to the overlap of inter‐nano interfaces and reducing the modification effect of the nanoparticles. This study on the effect law of nano‐ZnO with different particle sizes on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and electrical properties of PP can provide a reference for developing new recyclable high‐voltage insulated cable materials.
Factors influencing students' attitudes toward bullying: A multilevel analysis from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taipei
Authors: Zhang Hong , Tang Hanwei , Zhang Mengnan , Wang Fuyan
Published: May 2023

The present study investigated how students' attitudes toward bullying were influenced simultaneously by personal and contextual factors in Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taipei. Participants included 25,338 students (15‐year‐olds, from grade 7 to 12) and 663 schools from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taipei drawn from the Program for International Student Assessment 2018. Multilevel structural equation modeling with Bayesian estimation was conducted for data analysis. The results showed that, for personal factors, girls had stronger anti‐bullying attitudes than boys in each sample. Resilience and self‐efficacy predicted students' anti‐bullying attitudes positively and significantly in all three regions. For family contextual factors, parents' emotional support had positive effects on students' attitudes toward bullying in three regions. For school contextual factors, there was no consistent result among the three regions. School location and school belonging were positive predictors of students' anti‐bullying attitudes in Mainland China. By contrast, class size and student behavior hindering learning negatively correlated with students' anti‐bullying attitudes in Hong Kong. In Taipei, students in public schools were more likely to form anti‐bullying attitudes, and a positive association was found between the student–teacher ratio and students' attitudes toward bullying. Distinguishing the commonalities and differences in the factors influencing students' attitudes toward bullying in Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taipei provides empirical evidence to understand school bullying prevention and control mechanism.
Exploration of college students' psychological problems based on online education under COVID‐19
Authors: Xu Chenwei , Wang Xi , Zou Yuntao
Published: May 2023

As a result of the COVID‐19 pandemic, many college students have been isolated at home and unable to walk into class as usual. This series of protective measures to avoid the spread of the disease may have an additional psychological impact on the lives of college students. The purpose of this study was to propose a strategy for using an intelligent online learning system based on content recommendations and electronic questionnaires in the educational domain. We invited 3000 isolated university students (47.6% male and 52.4% female) to an online trial. It proved to be effective in helping us intervene in students' psychological problems quickly, objectively, efficiently, and in real‐time. In addition, our analysis of the data collected from the intelligent online learning system showed that the degree to which college students' psychological problems were affected by isolation was closely related to students' grade level, family background, major category, and computer proficiency. The current study suggests that the mental health of college students should be well monitored during segregation. Targeted psychological counseling is more necessary for students in upper grades, low‐income families, liberal arts majors, and those with weak computer proficiency to reduce the emotional impact of segregation on students.
The upper airway microbiome in Hispanic children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Palla John , Thapa Santosh , Venkatachalam Alamelu , Runge Jessica K. , Laguna Theresa A. , Luna Ruth Ann
Published: May 2023

Background

Hispanic people with cystic fibrosis (CF) have decreased life expectancy and earlier acquisition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa compared to non‐Hispanic white individuals with CF. Racial and ethnic differences in the airway microbiome of CF may contribute to known health disparity, but have not been studied. The objective was to describe differences in the upper airway microbial community in Hispanic and non‐Hispanic white children with CF.

Methods

This prospective, observational cohort study of 59 Hispanic and non‐Hispanic white children with CF, ages 2−10 years old, was performed at Texas Children's Hospital (TCH) from February 2019 to January 2020. Oropharyngeal swabs were collected from the cohort during clinic visit. Swab samples underwent sequencing (16S V4 rRNA), diversity analysis, and taxonomic profiling. Key demographic and clinical data were collected from the electronic medical record and the CF Foundation Patient Registry (CFFPR). Statistical analysis compared sequencing, demographic, and clinical data.

Results

We found no significant difference in Shannon diversity or relative abundance of bacterial phyla between Hispanic and non‐Hispanic children with CF. However, a low abundant taxa‐ “uncultured bacterium” belonging to the order Saccharimonadales was significantly higher in Hispanic children (mean relative abundance = 0.13%) compared to the non‐Hispanic children (0.03%). Hispanic children had increased incidence of P. aeruginosa (p = 0.045) compared to non‐Hispanic children.

Conclusion

We did not find a significant difference in the airway microbial diversity between Hispanic and non‐Hispanic white children with CF. However, we found a greater relative abundance of Saccharimonadales and higher incidence of P. aeruginosa in Hispanic children with CF.