bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of sediments burying the discharge area of a karst aquifer on the groundwater flow field—Numerical testing of conceptual models
Authors: Ohmer Marc , Liesch Tanja , Goldscheider Nico
Published: December 2023

Karst springs are a natural result of karst water discharging to the surface through unimpeded pathways where the water table meets the surface. This study investigates the impact of alluvial deposits of varying thicknesses and permeabilities burying the main outlet (karst spring) of a well‐developed conduit network on karst drainage, including the development of hydraulic heads, drainage patterns and conduit‐matrix interactions in response to a positive base‐level shift. Numerical testing using FEFLOW on a simplified conceptual model of a hypothetical karst aquifer with six different model configurations was used to examine various drainage structures (with and without flow through a conduit), spring conditions (free vs. partially/fully clogged), sediment cover thickness (20 and 50 m), and hydraulic conductivity of the sediments (low and high). The numerical testing model incorporated one‐dimensional discrete feature elements to simulate conduit flow and coupled conduit‐matrix interactions. Results indicate that even with a fully plugged outlet, the conduit network remains a significant contributor to the drainage system, collecting water from the matrix in the recharge zone. As the outlet becomes buried, the hydraulic head increases along the conduit, forcing water back up into the matrix. The elevated hydraulic head in the karst system will cause new conduits to form at the contact between limestone and sediments, creating new potential spring sites (or reactivating existing paleo‐phreatic levels). Artesian conditions will occur below the low permeability sediments. These findings provide valuable insights into the responses of natural karst systems.
Demographic and travel characteristics and self‐reported predeparture SARS‐CoV‐2 testing behavior in air passengers entering the United States from foreign destinations from July to September 2021
Authors: Panasci Anthony , Gearhart Shannon , Shaum Anna , Simental Arthur J. , Mitchell Colby , Mitcham Dionne , Williams Gilandria , Shake Nadim , Brown Clive , Gertz Alida M.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

From January 2021 to June 2022, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention required predeparture SARS‐CoV‐2 testing for all air passengers arriving into the United States from a foreign country.

Methods

Using data collected during a surveillance project, we described predeparture testing behavior among a convenience sample of international air passengers entering the United States from July to September 2021 at six US ports of entry. We analyzed pairwise relationships between self‐reported test type, test timing, demographic and travel characteristics, and COVID‐19 vaccination status using chi‐square and Fisher's exact tests.

Results

Participants were more likely to get a NAAT versus antigen test if they identified as non‐Hispanic Asian or Pacific Islander (68.2%, n = 173), non‐Hispanic Black (62.6%, n = 147), or if they preferred not to report race and ethnicity (60.8%, n = 209) when compared to those who identified as non‐Hispanic White (47.1%, n = 1086, all p < 0.05). Those who identified as Hispanic or Latino (n = 671) were less likely to get a NAAT than the non‐Hispanic White group (39.5% vs. 47.1%, p < 0.05). Participants arriving in the US from the Americas were less likely to get a NAAT (38.5%, n = 871) compared to those arriving from Europe (45.5%, n = 1165, p < 0.05). Participants who reported receiving their predeparture test 2 days or 3 or more days before departure were more likely to report receiving a NAAT (52.2%, n = 879, and 60.2%, n = 410, respectively) than those who reported testing within 1 day (41.4%, n = 1040, all p < 0.001) of departure.

Discussion

Test type was significantly associated with race and ethnicity, departure region, and test timing. Differences likely reflected regional disparities in the availability of tests at the time of the activity. Discrepancies in predeparture test timing and type worldwide may have consequences for the effectiveness and equity of travel requirements in future pandemics.
High‐throughput RNA sequencing of the T cell receptor alpha and beta chains for simultaneous clonality and biological analyses in Sezary syndrome
Authors: Blanco Gonzalo , López‐Aventín Daniel , Pujol Ramon M. , Gómez‐Llonín Andrea , Puiggros Anna , López‐Sánchez Manuela , Estrach Teresa , García‐Muret Mª Pilar , López‐Lerma Ingrid , Servitje Octavio , Bellosillo Beatriz , Muro Manuel , Espinet Blanca , Rabionet Raquel , Gallardo Fernando
Published: December 2023

Background

Previous investigations pointed out a role for antigen stimulation in Sezary syndrome (SS). High‐throughput sequencing of the T cell receptor (TR) offers several applications beyond diagnostic purposes, including the study of T cell pathogenesis.

Methods

We performed high‐throughput RNA sequencing of the TR alpha (TRA) and beta (TRB) genes focusing on the complementarity‐determining region 3 (CDR3) in 11 SS and one erythrodermic mycosis fungoides (MF) patients. Five psoriasis patients were employed as controls. Peripheral blood CD4+ cells were isolated and RNA sequenced (HiSeq2500). High‐resolution HLA typing was performed in neoplastic patients.

Results

Highly expanded predominant TRA and TRB CDR3 were only found in SS patients (median frequency: 94.4% and 93.7%). No remarkable CDR3 expansions were observed in psoriasis patients (median frequency of predominant TRA and TRB CDR3: 0.87% and 0.69%, p < 0.001 compared to SS). CDR3 almost identical to the predominant were identified within each SS patient and were exponentially correlated with frequencies of the predominant CDR3 (R2 = 0.918, p < 0.001). Forty‐six different CDR3 were shared between SS patients displaying HLA similarities, including predominant TRA and TRB CDR3 in one patient that were found in other three patients. Additionally, 351 antigen matches were detected (Cytomegalovirus, Epstein–Barr, Influenza virus, and self‐antigens), and the predominant CDR3 of two different SS patients matched CDR3 with specificity for Influenza and Epstein–Barr viruses.

Conclusions

Besides detecting clonality, these findings shed light on the nature of SS‐related antigens, pointing to RNA sequencing as a useful tool for simultaneous clonality and biological analysis in SS.
Effects of juicing methods on the bioactive compounds and flavor quality of ‘Black‐seed’ pomegranate from three producing areas
Authors: Yuan Lei , Zou Wenhui , Peng Yijin , Zhou Linyan
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Color, nutrients and flavor are the key characteristics of pomegranate juice, but they are susceptible to processing methods and raw materials. In this study, the effects of aril juicing and whole fruit juicing methods on the composition of ‘Black‐seed’ pomegranate juice from three producing areas were studied, including physicochemical parameters, color attributes, organic acids, sugars, phenolic compounds, and volatile compounds.

RESULTS

The whole fruit juicing method resulted in higher juice yields of pomegranate fruit with 69.01–72.59%, hue angle values were 5.95–6.45°, and the juice remained red. The highest level of citric acid (21.21 g L−1), total acids (24.78 g L−1), and total anthocyanin content (435.59 mg L−1) were found in whole fruit juice, and seven tannins were detected. The most abundant volatile compounds were (Z)‐3‐hexen‐1‐ol and 1‐hexanol in all juice samples, with alcohol content increased and aldehydes content decreased by whole fruit juicing. Principal component analysis revealed that the 24 indexes (variable important in projection >1) clearly distinguished juice samples obtained by two juicing methods, with ellagic acid hexoside, (E)‐2‐heptenal, (+)‐catechin, and octanoic acid having the best discriminatory potential.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the effects of juicing method on ‘Black‐seed’ pomegranate juice were greater than those of raw‐material‐producing areas. These results confirmed the potential for using the whole ‘Black‐seed’ pomegranate for processing, and also provided a theoretical basis for the healthy product development and utilization of dark‐color pomegranate varieties. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
The Poynting Vector Field Singularities: Effects of Symmetry and Its Violation
Authors: Tribelsky Michael I.
Published: December 2023

The phenomenological theory revealing the generic effects of the problem symmetry, its violation, and energy conservation law on the singularities of the Poynting vector field is presented. The bifurcation scenario of formation (annihilation) of the singularities under variations of the problem parameters is elucidated. The results describe the singularities in scattering a linearly polarized plane electromagnetic wave. However, they are valid for any configuration of the incident beam at its scattering by a subwavelength particle. The author shows that topological changes in the pattern of the Poynting vector field occur through a finite number of pitchfork bifurcations. It means that the patterns are topologically stable under variations of the problem parameter(s) that lie between the bifurcation values. The latter ensures that the discussed topological properties of the problem are robust to weak symmetry violation, which is inevitable in any actual experiment. The general consideration is illustrated by a detailed study of singularities in scattering by an infinite right circular germanium cylinder. The results open the possibility of fitting and controlling radiation patterns on subwavelength scales important for various nanotechnologies.
Stress‐Assisted Erosion of Poly(Glycerol‐Co‐Sebacate) Acrylate Elastomer
Authors: Qari Nada , Cai Shengqiang
Published: December 2023

In this work, a systematic investigation is conducted on stress‐assisted erosion of the photocurable and degradable elastomer poly(glycerol sebacate) acrylate (PGSA). Without external stress, it is confirmed that the elastomer undergoes surface erosion in an aqueous environment. Upon the application of mechanical stress, the results revealed that the surface erosion rate is dramatically accelerated. By studying the stress corrosion cracking (SCC) phenomena, it is demonstrated that the crack growth speed depends on the applied load and is significantly faster than the surface erosion rate of the elastomer. It is further shown that with decreasing the cross‐link density of the elastomer, the crack growth speed during SCC can be slowed down due to the increased viscoelasticity of the material.
Technical note: Implementing MRI/CT‐based elemental concentration data to Monte Carlo simulation for yielding positron emitters in proton therapy
Authors: Saito Masatoshi , Matsumoto Ryuga
Published: December 2023

Background

The elemental concentration (especially oxygen and carbon) and mass density must be accurately assigned to perform Monte Carlo (MC) simulations for predicting proton‐induced nuclear reactions in the human body. We recently proposed an approach to quantify elemental concentrations and mass densities of human soft tissues from water content (WC) data obtained by quantitative magnetic resonance (MR) imaging (which we called “MRWC”).

Purpose

This study presents the first implementation of MRWC‐derived elemental concentrations and mass densities as complementary inputs into MC simulations on a virtual head phantom, and demonstrates the simulation of positron emitter production yields in proton therapy.

Methods

An MC code, PHITS, was used to simulate proton therapy with a monoenergetic 140 MeV beam for a digital head phantom provided by BrainWeb. Three different head images were synthesized as inputs: a conventional CT image, an ideal CT image as a reference, and a WC image coupled with the bone‐only CT image for a hybrid approach (MRWC/CT). Thereafter, the performance of the MRWC/CT method was evaluated by comparing its accuracy in predicting the production yields of positron emitters (11C and 15O) with the gold‐standard CT‐only method.

Results

The MRWC/CT method could predict 11C and 15O production yield maps that closely resembled the corresponding reference maps, while the CT‐only method failed. The structural similarity index measures between the reference and CT‐ or MRWC/CT‐derived maps were improved from 0.67 (CT‐only) to 0.87 (MRWC/CT) for 11C and 0.76 (CT‐only) to 0.93 (MRWC/CT) for 15O. Furthermore, applying post‐processing normalizations to account for elemental density variations in the production yields of positron emitters facilitated the determination of distal fall‐off positions in depth activity profiles.

Conclusion

At least in the head area, the MRWC/CT method demonstrated potential for more precise predictions of proton‐induced positron emitter distributions via MC simulations than that of the CT‐only method.
Application of machine learning methods for process safety assessments
Authors: Bengherbia Tarek , Syed Faisal A. , Chew Jenny , Khalid Fathullah A. , Goh Alex F. T. , Chraibi Kenza , Abdeen Mohammed Zainal
Published: December 2023

The accurate prediction of gas dispersion and the potential consequences of gas explosions hold a pivotal role in the assessment of explosion design loads for oil and gas processing facilities. This often involves the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, a widely adopted practice in the field. The extent of CFD simulations required depends on the specific characteristics and size of the facility. In many cases, a substantial number of simulations, often in the thousands, are needed to comprehensively assess the potential outcomes in the event of a hydrocarbon loss of containment. These simulations account for the complex three‐dimensional nature of the facility, the surrounding environmental conditions, and the properties of the leaking hydrocarbon fluids. Although unquestionably invaluable, CFD simulations impose significant temporal constraints upon their execution and necessitate the allocation of substantial efforts and Central Processing Unit (CPU) time. In this paper we develop a neural model tailored specifically for the analysis of CFD gas dispersion and gas explosion scenarios. This model leverages the capabilities of machine learning algorithms to expedite the execution of these complex studies. The proposed neural network model has the advantage of being able to handle a wide range of scenarios in a fraction of time it takes to perform the CFD simulations, making it particularly useful for large‐scale processes facilities. The accuracy of the predictions is remarkably high, providing a high level of confidence in the predictions of the flammable gas clouds sizes across various scenarios, as well as the resulting explosion overpressures.
Virus‐like particles as powerful vaccination strategy against human viruses
Authors: Hadj Hassine Ikbel , Ben M'hadheb Manel , Almalki Mohammed A. , Gharbi Jawhar
Published: December 2023

Nowadays, viruses are not only seen as causative agents of viral infectious diseases but also as valuable research materials for various biomedical purposes, including recombinant protein production. When expressed in living or cell‐free expression systems, viral structural proteins self‐assemble into virus‐like particles (VLPs). Mimicking the native form and size of viruses and lacking the genetic material, VLPs are safe and highly immunogenic and thus can be exploited to develop antiviral vaccines. Some vaccines based on VLPs against various infectious pathogens have already been licenced for human use and are available in the commercial market, the latest of which is a VLP‐based vaccine to protect against the novel Coronavirus. Despite the success and popularity of VLP subunit vaccines, many more VLPs are still in different stages of design, production, and approval. There are still many challenges that require to be addressed in the future before this surface display system can be widely used as an effective vaccine strategy in combating infectious diseases. In this review, we highlight the use of structural viral proteins to produce VLPs, emphasising their intrinsic properties, structural classification, and main expression host systems. We also compiled the recent scientific literature about VLP‐based vaccines to underline the recent advances in their application as a vaccine strategy for preventing and fighting virulent human pathogens. Finally, we presented the key challenges and possible solutions for VLP‐based vaccine production.
Preparation of a β‐Cyclodextrin/Graphene Oxide@Quinoline Schiff Base Smart Coating and Its Microbial Corrosion Resistance
Authors: Wang Xiaoyan , Liu Zheng , Kong Xiangfei , Ding Zhiyuan , Chen Zesheng , Han Guo‐Cheng
Published: December 2023

β‐cyclodextrin/Graphene oxide@ quinoline Schiff base (β‐CD/GO@QS), a material of resistant to microbial corrosion, was successfully prepared. Surface morphology, structure and thermal stability were performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier‐transform infrared spectra (FT‐IR). The mechanical properties and microbial corrosion resistance of 0.5 wt% β‐CD/GO@QS smart coating in simulated seawater were investigated by electrochemical analysis. The results indicated that GO could improve the integrity of coating and had the great dispersion which decreased the effective anodic area to Q235 steel dissolution. Additionally, the smart coating of β‐CD/GO@QS effectively formed protective film on the exposed Q235 steel surface in the scratch area which could prevent the occurrence of electrochemical reactions, resulting in the cathode reaction hardly happened. Through the SEM and EDS image, the 0.5 wt% β‐CD/GO@QS coating of the scratched area was not seriously corroded after 14 d in simulated seawater.
Landslide Occurrences under Diverse Landuse/cover in Lower Kosi Watershed, Central Himalaya
Authors: Joshi Vinita , Pande Anita
Published: December 2023

Present study was related to land degradation after landslide and risk analysis of Lower Kosi watershed in Central Himalaya using RS and GIS. The study was aimed to identifying the relation of land use with landslide activity in Himalayan terrain and landslide management. The landslide inventory map was prepared for the detailed study with the help of Google Earth Image and field verifications. Landslide had been sub-categorized into two categories; natural and road induced. The land use map was prepared from Google Earth image followed by toposheets. Statistical analysis of landslide frequency and density as well as frequency and density ratios were applied. The collected data was evaluated in combination with GIS. The relationship between land use categories and landslide occurrences was determined. The landslide frequency ratio (FR) and density ratio (DR) were analyzed. The FR and DR value of 1 is an average value. Hence, the value of ratio more than 1 signifies a strong relationship between landslides and the given factor while ratio values less than 1 registers a poor relationship. The FR and DR values were >1.0 in the areas of fallow land, barren/rocky land, agricultural land and open forest revealing a strong relation to landslide processes while the lesser values of FR and DR in ‘dense forest’ area determines the impact of sufficient vegetation cover on the least occurrence of landslides. This study may be applicable for new and existing land use planning projects as the adopted methodology provides rapid estimation of landslide vulnerability of the area.
How to generate economic satisfaction in b2b contexts? The role of value co-creation and relationship quality
Authors: Berenguer-Contri Gloria , Gil-Saura Irene , Ruiz-Molina María-Eugenia , Gil Roberto , Juma-Michilena Israel
Published: December 2023

The aim of this article is to investigate how value co-creation in a B2B context influences relationship quality and economic satisfaction between tourism companies considering factors of trust, commitment, and social satisfaction as key antecedents to determining the quality of the relationship. This study was carried out with a sample of 268 hotels in Spain. The data were analysed via the partial least squares (PLS) regression technique, using the “SEMinR” and “matrixpls” packages with the R software. The results show that value co-creation in a B2B context is a differentiating, integrating, dynamic tool that is capable of improving relationship quality between partners in the hotel sector. In addition, it was confirmed that co-creation leads to economic satisfaction and improved results for all the agents involved in a commercial interaction. This work contributes conceptually and empirically to the relationship marketing literature by providing an innovative route to understand how B2B value co-creation networks are organised. Quantitative evidence is revealed about how co-creation can stimulate the positive evaluation of a company regarding the economic results or benefits obtained thanks to the quality of the relationship with its tourism supplier.
Economic resources, childcare services, and son preference: a conjoint analysis of fertility potential in China
Authors: Yu Jia , Shen Xiaojie , Xie Yu
Published: December 2023

Using a randomized experiment that we designed for the 2021 Chinese General Social Survey, this study conducts a conjoint analysis to explore the fertility potential among Chinese adults. We examine the separate impacts of different factors and their heterogeneity across social groups. The results suggest that fertility potential is context-dependent. In addition, greater economic resources and availability of childcare significantly increase fertility potential. However, preferences in terms of the care provider, family versus the market, vary by gender, educational level, and desired number of children. Notably, we also find that son preference no longer has a significant effect on fertility potential in China. In light of China’s current low fertility, our study suggests that childbearing behavior will become increasingly differentiated by socioeconomic status. Fertility-enhancing policies should focus on supplementing economic resources and improving access to childcare.
Numerical Simulation of Gravity Flow in Sublevel Caving Based on Polyhedron DEM
Authors: Yi Changping , Johansson Daniel , Wimmer Matthias , Nordqvist Anders , Greberg Jenny , Miguel Carlota Rodriguez San
Published: December 2023

The gravity flow behavior of blasted ore and caved waste in sublevel caving (SLC) mines is complex. The shape of fragmented ore and caved waste is identified as one of the principal factors influencing the gravity flow of ore. To investigate the effect of the particle shapes on the gravity flow, a code was developed to generate polyhedral fragments in different shapes and divide them into internal elements. Then these fragments were imported in the LS-DYNA code to generate SLC models containing blasted ore and caved waste and model the extraction process. To model the non-continuous loading process, the gravity flow was considered to be an intermittent process by setting a switcher at the extraction point. The flow behavior of ore from the numerical modeling is in agreement with the experimental results. The cumulative dilution of ore by waste is up to around 30%, which agrees with the results of the field survey.
The Chinese Economy
Authors: Morgan Stephen L.
Published: December 2023

China's transformation over the past four decades has been unprecedented. The vision of its leaders for the next three decades is unprecedented too, as China seeks to fashion an advanced economy without significant political and social liberalization.

Stephen Morgan provides a wide-ranging examination of China's remarkable economic history from the time of the great divergence to the present day. Alongside the familiar story of GDP growth, he considers a comprehensive range of issues, including business management, energy use, foreign direct investment, government, innovation and consumerism as well as social and demographic factors such as social networks, health, education and migration and their interlinked challenges for the Chinese state. The specifics of development are examined 'capitalism from above and below and its regional variances' as well as notable consequences, including growing inequality and severe pollution. The book also assesses the challenges to China's continued growth, including its ageing and shrinking workforce (and rising dependency ratio), the constraints on innovation and raising productivity, as well as its ambitious international plans.

The book provides an accessible and authoritative survey of China's recent economic history and the workings of its unique political economy suitable for courses in Asian business and economy, Chinese history and East Asian studies.
Productivity
Authors: Haynes Michael
Published: December 2023

Productivity looms large in public policy discussions yet many find themselves hard-pressed to explain exactly what the term means. Even within economics, its nature and significance is contested and the focus of complex debate. Michael Haynes cuts through the jargon and political sloganeering to provide a detailed examination of the concept, how it is used and why it is held by economists to be so important in evaluating the health of economies.

The book explores why productivity grows or fails to grow in certain contexts, in particular how real world variables can interact with measurements of efficiency and output. The difficulties of measuring its scope are examined alongside the larger question of whether growth in productivity is sustainable, both at the level of national economies and globally. Whether productivity remains the motor of economic growth that it once was and continues to be the most appropriate economic indicator for modern economies is shown to be a key consideration.

For anyone searching for a clear, engaging and level-headed guide to one of the most important metrics for understanding economic growth, this book will be warmly welcomed.
The French Economy
Authors: Lynch Frances M. B.
Published: December 2023

Despite being invariably misunderstood by anglophones and often derided in the English-language financial press, the French economy is one of the world's major economies. For many years characterized by a distinctive economic model in which the French state intervened to correct or prevent market failures, as France has embraced the global market, its economy has increasingly converged with the western norm, but it remains different from its neighbours, particularly Germany and the UK, in a number of important respects.

This general economic history of modern France - the first in the English language for nearly twenty years - provides an authoritative analysis of the workings of the modern French economy since its postwar reforms through to the present day. The book explores the monetary and fiscal policies of successive governments and the country's economic performance through a variety of indicators. In particular the book considers the attempts by the state to correct the regional imbalances associated with the contraction of agriculture and the decline of historically important industries as well as mitigating the dominance of Paris. The parts played by demographic change, migration, inequality, and the European project in French economic development are also investigated alongside the strength and competitiveness of key industries like finance, energy and transport.
Surfactants on troubled waters
Authors: Lohse Detlef
Published: December 2023

‘Storm oil’ – nearly water-insoluble oil poured into the ocean and acting as a surfactant – has been used since ancient times to smooth the waves on the ocean. It was first scientifically described by Benjamin Franklin (Phil. Trans. R. Soc. Lond., vol. 64, 1774, pp. 445–460). In a recent paper, by combining highly controlled experiments in a wave tank and direct numerical simulations, Erinin et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 972, 2023, R5) have now beautifully revealed the strong effect of soluble surfactants on the dynamics of plunging breakers. Remarkably, it is not the change in surface tension which mainly matters, but the surface tension gradient which emerges through compression and dilation of the plunging breaker surface.
Quadruple Langmuir probe characterization of different fuel gases in a plasma deflagration accelerator
Authors: Jibodu Aduragbemi A.T. , Ballande Arnaud M. , Cappelli Mark A.
Published: December 2023

Astrophysical flows may be studied by reproducing similar conditions using a coaxial plasma accelerator operating in the deflagration regime (or plasma deflagration accelerator). This allows for the recreation and investigation of dynamics present in complex highly coupled plasma systems at the laboratory scale. We report on measurements of the plasma density, temperature, plasma potential and velocity found using a quadruple Langmuir probe (QLP) on such a deflagration accelerator in the form of the Stanford Coaxial High ENerGy (CHENG) device operating with multiple gases – specifically argon, nitrogen and hydrogen. Experiments show a general decrease in bulk plasma velocity with gas atomic mass from upwards of

$120\ {\rm km}\ {\rm s}^{-1}$

with hydrogen to less than

$30\ {\rm km}\ {\rm s}^{-1}$

with argon. There was an accompanying increase in peak plasma density with increasing atomic mass from

${\sim }3\times 10^{20}\ {\rm m}^{-3}$

with hydrogen to

${\sim }1.5 \times 10^{21}\ {\rm m}^{-3}$

with argon. It was found that the momentum flux and internal energy density also generally increase with atomic mass while the particle flux is constant between shots. Further investigation is needed to understand these correlations and the underlying physics. Lastly, comparisons with scaling laws show that while the CHENG device may be operated in such a way as to simulate the effects of bulk solar wind movement, it may not properly capture the thermal effects.
A framework for local-level economic evaluation to inform implementation decisions: health service interventions to prevent hospital-acquired hypoglycemia
Authors: Gray Jodi , Thynne Tilenka R. , Eaton Vaughn , Reade Brianna , Larcombe Rebecca , Baldacchino Linda , Gehlert Jessica , Hakendorf Paul , Karnon Jonathan ,   for the Southern Adelaide Local Health Network’s (SALHN) Hypoglycaemia Clinical Working Group
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Published evidence on health service interventions should inform decision-making in local health services, but primary effectiveness studies and cost-effectiveness analyses are unlikely to reflect contexts other than those in which the evaluations were undertaken. A ten-step framework was developed and applied to use published evidence as the basis for local-level economic evaluations that estimate the expected costs and effects of new service intervention options in specific local contexts.

Methods

Working with a multidisciplinary group of local clinicians, the framework was applied to evaluate intervention options for preventing hospital-acquired hypoglycemia. The framework included: clinical audit and analyses of local health systems data to understand the local context and estimate baseline event rates; pragmatic literature review to identify evidence on relevant intervention options; expert elicitation to adjust published intervention effect estimates to reflect the local context; and modeling to synthesize and calibrate data derived from the disparate data sources.

Results

From forty-seven studies identified in the literature review, the working group selected three interventions for evaluation. The local-level economic evaluation generated estimates of intervention costs and a range of cost, capacity and patient outcome-related consequences, which informed working group recommendations to implement two of the interventions.

Conclusions

The applied framework for modeled local-level economic evaluation was valued by local stakeholders, in particular the structured, formal approach to identifying and interpreting published evidence alongside local data. Key methodological issues included the handling of alternative reported outcomes and the elicitation of the expected intervention effects in the local context.
The Economic Cost of Unpaid Care to the Public Finances: Inequalities in Welfare Benefits, Forgone Earnings-related Tax Revenue, and Health Service Utilisation
Authors: Cartagena-Farias Javiera , Brimblecombe Nicola
Published: December 2023

There is limited research on the effect of unpaid care on the public finances, and on the inequalities present when providing support to those with caring responsibilities. The aims of this research are to estimate the overall costs to the State of providing care, and to identify sub-groups of carers with relatively greater costs to the government who may need more support. We used waves eight to ten from the United Kingdom Household Longitudinal Survey and performed two-part Generalised Linear Models and Propensity Score Matching. We found that providing care is associated with excess and potentially avoidable costs to government in terms of forgone earnings-related tax revenue, welfare benefits, and health service use. Older carers have lower healthcare costs, indicating, perhaps, issues related to accessing to services due to their role (as they may neglect their own health, worry about safety and costs of public transport). Older carers were also found to have lower levels of welfare benefits, suggesting challenges associated with applying for support (such as navigating cumbersome application processes and stigma-related barriers).
Icelandic Fissure Finally Erupts
Authors: Cartier Kimberly
Published: December 2023

The position of the eruption and wind conditions are favorable. No one is in immediate danger, local officials said.
Temporal and Spatial Pattern Change in Evapotranspiration Over the High Plains: The Impact of and Guide on Extensive Groundwater‐Fed Irrigation
Authors: Zeng Ruijie , Yao Chuncheng , Cai Ximing , Haacker Erin
Published: December 2023

Aquifer depletion due to extensive and intensive irrigation in the High Plains has threatened the environmental sustainability of the region. The change of crop evapotranspiration (ET), the major form of agriculture water consumption, presents a critical signature of hydrologic cycle change. This study evaluates the relative contributions of climate and groundwater‐fed irrigation to ET temporal and spatial pattern change over the High Plains Aquifer, one of the most severely depleted aquifers in the US. We developed a framework to extend the Budyko hypothesis to assess the impact of catchment storage change on long‐term ET. It is found that irrigation from groundwater pumping contributes more than half of the increase in ET (74.1 mm) from the period of 1940–1975 to 1976–2010, despite an increase of precipitation (35.0 mm) in the region. ET seasonal variance is decreased by the decline in precipitation variability (at −20.7 mm) and increase in irrigation (at +14.2 mm). As expected, irrigation decreases ET coefficient of variability (i.e., the ratio of standard deviation to mean). Spatially, we find that the human‐induced ET heterogeneity post‐1975 superimposes over the natural east‐to‐west gradient (in precipitation and ET) of this region. A correlation between the statistics (mean vs. coefficient of variation) on ET and crop yield provides promising signatures for understanding the coupled natural and human system of High Plains agriculture. Guides are discussed regarding how to handle the tradeoffs between agricultural development and natural resource sustainability under climate variability in the High Plains and other regions with similar conditions.
Neuro–bone tissue engineering: emerging mechanisms, potential strategies, and current challenges
Authors: Sun Wenzhe , Ye Bing , Chen Siyue , Zeng Lian , Lu Hongwei , Wan Yizhou , Gao Qing , Chen Kaifang , Qu Yanzhen , Wu Bin , Lv Xiao , Guo Xiaodong
Published: December 2023

The skeleton is a highly innervated organ in which nerve fibers interact with various skeletal cells. Peripheral nerve endings release neurogenic factors and sense skeletal signals, which mediate bone metabolism and skeletal pain. In recent years, bone tissue engineering has increasingly focused on the effects of the nervous system on bone regeneration. Simultaneous regeneration of bone and nerves through the use of materials or by the enhancement of endogenous neurogenic repair signals has been proven to promote functional bone regeneration. Additionally, emerging information on the mechanisms of skeletal interoception and the central nervous system regulation of bone homeostasis provide an opportunity for advancing biomaterials. However, comprehensive reviews of this topic are lacking. Therefore, this review provides an overview of the relationship between nerves and bone regeneration, focusing on tissue engineering applications. We discuss novel regulatory mechanisms and explore innovative approaches based on nerve–bone interactions for bone regeneration. Finally, the challenges and future prospects of this field are briefly discussed.
Bio-inspired self-healing and anti-corrosion waterborne polyurethane coatings based on highly oriented graphene oxide
Authors: Wang Lin , Wang Xuebin , Liu Tong , Sun Fuyao , Li Suning , Geng Yuhao , Yao BoWen , Xu Jianhua , Fu JiaJun
Published: December 2023

In the face of ubiquitous corrosion threats, the development of high-performance elastomer protective materials with active self-healing functions is extremely challenging and significant. We propose an approach by combining WPU elastomer with GO to create the multifunctional pearl layer structured polymers with interface hydrogen bonds. By crosslinking the polycaprolactone diol (PCL) chain with a hydrogen bond array, the elastomer with high mechanical strength, extensibility, elasticity, excellent damage resistance, and healing properties was successfully synthesized. The elastomer exhibits remarkable mechanical properties, including a tensile strength of 39.89 MPa, toughness value of 300.3 MJ m−3, and fracture energy of 146.57 kJ m−2. The enhanced damage resistance of the elastomer can be attributed to the decomposable hydrogen bond array as well as the strain-induced crystallization of PCL fragments, which effectively dissipate energy. Importantly, due to the reversibility of the hydrogen bonding array, the fractured WPU can easily heal and restore its original mechanical properties when subjected to heating at 50 °C. Moreover, the photothermal properties of GO enable the biomimetic polymer coating to achieve damage recovery after being irradiated with NIR for 30 s. The obtained biomimetic coating exhibits a highly oriented lamellar structure, thereby greatly enhancing physical barrier performance and anti-corrosion performance. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) shows that the impedance modulus is one order of magnitude higher than that of the blank coating. Additionally, scanning vibrating electrode (SVET) confirmed that the self-healing performance and protection effect of the biomimetic coating in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution were also reliable. This highly reliable biomimetic coating presents a revolutionary solution for creating multi-functional, high-performance smart material in harsh environments.
Differentiating paranoia and conspiracy mentality using a network approach
Authors: Denecke Saskia , Schlier Björn , Kingston Jessica L. , Ellett Lyn , So Suzanne H. , Gaudiano Brandon A. , Morris Eric M. J. , Lincoln Tania M.
Published: December 2023

Although mostly considered distinct, conspiracy mentality and paranoia share conceptual similarities (e.g., persecutory content, resistance to disconfirming evidence). Using self-report data from a large and multinational online sample (N = 2510; from the UK, the US, Hong Kong, Germany, and Australia), we examined whether paranoia and conspiracy mentality represent distinct latent constructs in exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Utilising network analysis, we then explored common and unique correlates of paranoia and conspiracy mentality while accounting for their shared variance. Across sites, paranoia and conspiracy mentality presented distinct, yet weakly correlated (r = 0.26), constructs. Both were associated with past traumatic experiences, holding negative beliefs about the self and other people, sleep problems, and a tendency to worry. However, paranoia was related to increased negative affect (i.e., anxiety) and decreased social support, whereas the opposite pattern was observed for conspiracy mentality (i.e., decreased anxiety and depression, increased social support). Paranoia and conspiracy mentality are related but not the same constructs. Their similar and distinct correlates point to common and unique risk factors and underlying mechanisms.
Acute hypoxia alters visuospatial attention orienting: an electrical neuroimaging study
Authors: Zani A. , Crotti N. , Marzorati M. , Senerchia A. , Proverbio A. M.
Published: December 2023

Our study investigated the effects of hypoxia on visuospatial attention processing during preparation for a single/double-choice motor response. ERPs were recorded in two sessions in which participants breathed either ambient-air or oxygen-impoverished air. During each session, participants performed four cue-target attention orienting and/or alerting tasks. Replicating the classic findings of valid visuospatial attentional orienting modulation, ERPs to pre-target cues elicited both an Anterior directing attention negativity (ADAN)/CNV and a posterior Late directing attention positivity (LDAP)/TP, which in ambient air were larger for attention orienting than for alerting. Hypoxia increased the amplitude of both these potentials in the spatial orienting conditions for the upper visual hemifield, while, for the lower hemifield, it increased ADAN/CNV, but decreased LDAP/TP for the same attention conditions. To these ERP changes corresponded compensatory enhanced activation of right anterior cingulate cortex, left superior parietal lobule and frontal gyrus, as well as detrimental effects of hypoxia on behavioral overt performance. Together, these findings reveal for the first time, to our knowledge, that (1) these reversed alterations of the activation patterns during the time between cue and target occur at a larger extent in hypoxia than in air, and (2) acute normobaric hypoxia alters visuospatial attention orienting shifting in space.
Assessment of perfluoroalkyl substances concentration levels in wild bat guano samples
Authors: Gonkowski Slawomir , Martín Julia , Kortas Annemarie , Aparicio Irene , Santos Juan Luis , Alonso Esteban , Sobiech Przemysław , Rytel Liliana
Published: December 2023

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are substances commonly used in the production of various everyday objects, including among others kitchen dishes, cosmetics, or clothes. They penetrate to the environment and living organisms causing disturbances in the functioning of many internal organs and systems. Due to environmental pollution, wildlife is also exposed to PFASs, but the knowledge about this issue is rather limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the exposure of wild greater mouse-eared bats (Myotis myotis), living in Poland, to six selected PFASs: five perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (perfluorobutanoic acid—PFBuA, perfluoropentanoic acid—PFPeA, perfluorohexanoic acid—PFHxA, perfluoroheptanoic acid—PFHpA, perfluorooctanoic acid—PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) through the analysis of guano samples with liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS–MS) method. To our knowledge this is the first study concerning the PFASs levels in bats, as well as using guano samples to evaluate the exposure of wild mammals to these substances. A total of 40 guano samples were collected from 4 bats summer (nursery) colonies located in various parts of Poland. The presence of PFASs mentioned were detected in all colonies studied, and concentration levels of these substances were sampling dependent. The highest concentration levels were observed in the case of PFPeA [1.34 and 3060 ng/g dry weight (dw)] and PFHxA (8.30–314 ng/g dw). This study confirms the exposure of wild bats to PFASs.
Monitoring of semiconductor manufacturing process on Bayesian AEWMA control chart under paired ranked set sampling schemes
Authors: Wang Yuzhen , Khan Imad , Noor-ul-Amin Muhammad , AlQahtani Salman A. , Ahmad Bakhtiyar
Published: December 2023

Quality control often employs memory-type control charts, including the exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) and Shewhart control charts, to identify shifts in the location parameter of a process. This article pioneers a new Bayesian Adaptive EWMA (AEWMA) control chart, built on diverse loss functions (LFs) such as the square error loss function (SELF) and the Linex loss function (LLF). The proposed chart aims to enhance the process of identifying small to moderate as well as significant shifts in the mean, signifying a notable advancement in the field of quality control. These are implemented utilizing an informative prior for both posterior and posterior predictive distributions, employing various paired ranked set sampling (PRSS) schemes. The effectiveness of the suggested chart is appraised using average run length (ARL) and the standard deviation of run length (SDRL). Monte Carlo simulations are employed to contrast the recommended approach against other control charts. The outcomes demonstrate the dignitary performance of the recommended chart in identifying out-of-control signals, especially applying PRSS designs, in comparison to simple random sampling (SRS). Finally, a practical application was conducted in the semiconductor manufacturing context to appraise the efficacy of the offered chart using various paired ranked set sampling strategies. The results reveal that the suggested control chart performed well in capturing the out-of-control signals far better than the already in use control charts. Overall, this study interposes a new technique with diverse LFs and PRSS designs, improving the precision and effectiveness in detecting process mean shifts, thereby contributing to advancements in quality control and process monitoring.
Nutritional impact of nano zeolite, probiotic, and fatty acids as feed additives on health status of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Abd Elshafy Manar Bahaa , Abd EL-Monem Asmaa Ibrahim Mohamed , Khattab Ibrahim M. , Fadl Sabreen E. , Abou Khadiga Galal
Published: December 2023

For human consumption, fish is a good and affordable source of several crucial elements. Growing aquaculture management and output is always necessary. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the effect of probiotics, nano zeolite, and/or medium chain fatty acids (MCFA) on fish health and the chemical composition of the fish body. The experimental fish were distributed into eight groups. T1: Control group fed the basal diet without feed additives, T2: Nano zeolite at a rate of 2 mg/kg diet, T3: Pedococcus at a rate of 2 gm kg diet, T4: Medium chain fatty acids used according to produced company recommendation at a rate of 3.5 gm/kg diet, T5: Nano zeolite (2 mg/kg diet) + Pedococcus (2 mg/kg diet), T6: Nano zeolite (2 mg/kg diet) + Medium chain fatty acids (3.5 gm/kg diet), T7: Pedococcus (2 mg/kg diet) + Medium chain fatty acids (3.5 gm/kg diet), and T8: Nano zeolite (2 mg/kg diet) + Pedococcus (2 mg/kg diet) + Medium chain fatty acids (3.5 gm/kg diet). The obtained results showed an insignificant difference in the body composition of Nile tilapia fish fed feed additives alone or in combination. Moreover, the feed additives did not affect the health status of fish, as indicated by normal liver and kidney functions.