bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frailty as an Effect Modifier in Randomized Controlled Trials: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yao Aaron , Gao Linhui , Zhang Jiajun , Cheng Joyce M. , Kim Dae Hyun
Published: April 2024

Background

The effect of clinical interventions may vary by patients’ frailty status. Understanding treatment effect heterogeneity by frailty could lead to frailty-guided treatment strategies and reduce overtreatment and undertreatment. This systematic review aimed to examine the effect modification by frailty in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluate pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and multicomponent interventions.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and ClinicalTrial.gov, from their inception to 8 December 2023. Two reviewers independently extracted trial data and examined the study quality with senior authors.

Results

Sixty-one RCTs that evaluated the interaction between frailty and treatment effects in older adults were included. Frailty was evaluated using different tools such as the deficit accumulation frailty index, frailty phenotype, and other methods. The effect of several pharmacological interventions (e.g., edoxaban, sacubitril/valsartan, prasugrel, and chemotherapy) varied according to the degree of frailty, whereas other treatments (e.g., antihypertensives, vaccinations, osteoporosis medications, and androgen medications) demonstrated consistent benefits across different frailty levels. Some non-pharmacological interventions had greater benefits in patients with higher (e.g., chair yoga, functional walking, physical rehabilitation, and higher dose exercise program) or lower (e.g., intensive lifestyle intervention, psychosocial intervention) levels of frailty, while others (e.g., resistance-type exercise training, moderate-intensive physical activity, walking and nutrition or walking) produced similar intervention effects. Specific combined interventions (e.g., hospital-based disease management programs) demonstrated inconsistent effects across different frailty levels.

Discussion

The efficacy of clinical interventions often varied by frailty levels, suggesting that frailty is an important factor to consider in recommending clinical interventions in older adults.

Registration

PROSPERO registration number CRD42021283051.
Arbeitsmarktteilhabe durch Qualifizierung? De‑, Dis- und Sonderqualifizierung geflüchteter Frauen im deutschen Berufsbildungssystem
Authors: Menke Katrin , Ullmann Johanna
Published: April 2024

Berufliche Qualifizierung gilt international gemeinhin als Garant für nachhaltige Erwerbsarbeit von Geflüchteten. Seit der erhöhten Fluchtzuwanderung im Jahr 2015 hat sich das Feld beruflicher Qualifizierung in Deutschland erheblich ausdifferenziert. Trotz hoher Erwerbsambitionen und bestehender Qualifizierungsbedarfe landen geflüchtete Frauen bisher jedoch kaum in qualifizierter Erwerbsarbeit oder beruflicher Ausbildung. Dieser Beitrag bearbeitet den Zusammenhang zwischen beruflicher Qualifizierung und Arbeitsmarktsegmentierungen am Beispiel fluchtmigrierter Frauen in Deutschland, indem er segmentationstheoretische Ansätze und deren jüngeren feministisch-sozialkonstruktivistischen Erweiterungen auf das Berufsbildungssystem überträgt und mit empirischen Befunden unterfüttert. Anhand von qualitativem Interviewmaterial mit Akteur:innen in Arbeitsverwaltung und Trägerorganisationen von Arbeitsmarktintegrationsprojekten werden verschiedene Zuweisungspraxen rekonstruiert, die 1) aus symbolischen Auf- und Abwertungen beruflicher Qualifikationen bestehen und 2) durch Einschätzungen von (nicht) vorhandenen Qualifizierungsoptionen charakterisiert sind. Der Artikel illustriert, wie das Zusammenspiel aus geschlechtsspezifisch-rassifizierenden Zuschreibungen und der Strukturiertheit vorhandener Berufsbildungs- und Arbeitsmarktinstitutionen die Positionierung der Gruppe am unteren Ende der Arbeitsmarkt- und Ausbildungshierarchie nach sich zieht. In der Folge erfahren geflüchtete Frauen eine Zuweisung in Richtung De‑, Dis- oder Sonderqualifizierung, die in unqualifizierte, prekäre (feminisierte und migrantisierte) Anlern- und Hilfsjobs auf dem segmentierten Arbeitsmarkt kanalisiert und eine unsichere berufs- und ausbildungsvorbereitende Übergangsphase der Gruppe verlängert. Der Beitrag beleuchtet damit die bislang wenig erforschte Frage, was als berufliche Qualifikation und insofern förderliche Qualifizierung im Kontext von Flucht gilt (oder nicht). Aufgrund gegenwärtiger Ausbaupläne beruflicher Weiterqualifizierung in Deutschland nach österreichischem Vorbild ist dies eine zunehmend relevante Frage.
Achieving a Columnar-to-Equiaxed Transition Through Dendrite Twinning in High Deposition Rate Additively Manufactured Titanium Alloys
Authors: Davis A. E. , Wainwright J. , Sahu V. K. , Dreelan D. , Chen X. , Ding J. , Flint T. , Williams S. , Prangnell P. B.
Published: April 2024

The coarse β-grain structures typically found in titanium alloys like Ti–6Al–4V (wt pct, Ti64) and Ti–6Al–2Sn–4Zr–2Mo–0.1Si (Ti6242), produced by high deposition rate additive manufacturing (AM) processes, are detrimental to mechanical performance. Certain modified processing conditions have been shown to lead to a more refined grain structure, which has generally been attributed to a change in the solidification conditions with respect to the experimental Hunt diagram proposed by Semiatin and Kobryn. It is shown that with Wire Arc AM (WAAM) increasing the wire feed speed (WFS) is effective in promoting a columnar-equiaxed transition (CET). Conversely, estimates of the dendrite-tip undercooling using the KGT model suggest that this will be too small for free nucleation without the addition of artificial nucleants, due to the very low solute partitioning in Ti alloys. It is also shown that it is difficult to promote a CET with plasma transferred arc WAAM as computational fluid dynamics (CFD) melt-pool simulations indicate that the solidification parameters remain within the columnar region on the Semiatin-Kobryn Hunt map, within the constraints of a stable process. However, a high fraction of twin boundaries was observed in the refined β-grain structures seen at high WFS. This has been attributed to departure of $$\left\langle {001} \right\rangle _{\beta }$$

001

β

alignment from the direction of maximum thermal gradient, caused by the curvature of the fusion boundary, stimulating dendrite twinning during solidification. In addition, it is shown that increasing the WFS leads to a change in melt-pool geometry and a reduction of remelt depth, which promoted dendrite twinning and grain refinement.
Overexpression of α-Klotho isoforms promotes distinct Effects on BDNF-Induced Alterations in Dendritic Morphology
Authors: Cararo-Lopes Marina Minto , Sadovnik Ratchell , Fu Allen , Suresh Shradha , Gandu Srinivasa , Firestein Bonnie L.
Published: April 2024

α-Klotho (α-Kl) is a modulator of aging, neuroprotection, and cognition. Transcription of the Klotho gene produces two splice variants—a membrane protein (mKl), which can be cleaved and released into the extracellular milieu, and a truncated secreted form (sKl). Despite mounting evidence supporting a role for α-Kl in brain function, the specific roles of α-Kl isoforms in neuronal development remain elusive. Here, we examined α-Kl protein levels in rat brain and observed region-specific expression in the adult that differs between isoforms. In the developing hippocampus, levels of isoforms decrease after the third postnatal week, marking the end of the critical period for development. We overexpressed α-Kl isoforms in primary cultures of rat cortical neurons and evaluated effects on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling. Overexpression of either isoform attenuated BDNF-mediated signaling and reduced intracellular Ca2+ levels, with mKl promoting a greater effect. mKl or sKl overexpression in hippocampal neurons resulted in a partially overlapping reduction in secondary dendrite branching. Moreover, mKl overexpression increased primary dendrite number. BDNF treatment of neurons overexpressing sKl resulted in a dendrite branching phenotype similar to control neurons. In neurons overexpressing mKl, BDNF treatment restored branching of secondary and higher order dendrites close, but not distal, to the soma. Taken together, the data presented support the idea that sKl and mKl play distinct roles in neuronal development, and specifically, in dendrite morphogenesis.
Drivers of supply chain adaptability: insights into mobilizing supply chain processes. A multi-country and multi-sector empirical research
Authors: Morita Michiya , Machuca Jose A. D. , Marin-Garcia Juan A. , Alfalla-Luque Rafaela
Published: April 2024

Supply chain (SC) adaptability (SC-Ad) implies that SC processes should change and adapt to anticipated structural and market changes. However, when these changes are related to shifts from exploitative to explorative focuses, companies face an inflexibility problem because of involved uncertainties, creating a barrier to obtaining SC-Ad. This research proposes to overcome this barrier by integrating new combinations of the product/market strategy and SC processes and securing their fit over time. To get it, this study proposes two SC-Ad drivers (related to the SC process (ASCOS) and new product development competences (PDC)), which secure the aforementioned fit by reducing its uncertainties and thus ensuring a SC-Ad that responds to emerging competitive changes. Measurement and structural models were assessed following PLS-SEM. ASCOS and PDC’ relative importance was analyzed using the importance/performance/analysis procedure. PLS, PLS-predict, and CVPAT were used to analyze model’s in-sample and out-of-sample predictive capacity. ANOVA was used to compare SC-Ad, ASCOS and PDC in different plant groups. Results suggest that ASCOS and PDC are SC-Ad’s drivers, and that the plants with highest SC-Ad values are those with the higher ASCOS and PDC’ values. This expand knowledge about SC-Ad drivers, which represents an important literature gap. In an indirect way, some new light is also added to the topic of ambidextrous management. The adequate generalizability of these results is supported by a) a wide multi-country, multi-informant, and multi-sector sample of 268 plants, b) a good out-of-sample model predictive capacity c) no heterogeneity issues.
On Singularities of the Gauss Map Components of Surfaces in $${{\mathbb {R}}}^4$$
Authors: Domitrz Wojciech , Hernández-Martínez Lucía Ivonne , Sánchez-Bringas Federico
Published: April 2024

The Gauss map of a generic immersion of a smooth, oriented surface into $${\mathbb {R}}^4$$

R

4

is an immersion. But this map takes values on the Grassmanian of oriented 2-planes in $${\mathbb {R}}^4$$

R

4

. Since this manifold has a structure of a product of two spheres, the Gauss map has two components that take values on the sphere. We study the singularities of the components of the Gauss map and relate them to the geometric properties of the generic immersion. Moreover, we prove that the singularities are generically stable, and we connect them to the contact type of the surface and $${\mathcal {J}}$$
J
-holomorphic curves with respect to an orthogonal complex structure $${\mathcal {J}}$$
J
on $${\mathbb {R}}^4$$

R

4

. Finally, we get some formulas of Gauss–Bonnet type involving the geometry of the singularities of the components with the geometry and topology of the surface.
Influence of a nanoscale coating on plucking fingers and stainless steel on attachment and detachment of Salmonella Enteritidis, Escherichia coli and Campylobacter jejuni
Authors: Blaeske Victoria , Schumann-Muck Felicitas Maria , Hamedy Ahmad , Braun Peggy G. , Koethe Martin
Published: April 2024

Gastroenteritis caused by Campylobacter represents the most common reported foodborne bacterial illness worldwide, followed by salmonellosis. Both diseases are often caused by the consumption of contaminated, insufficiently heated poultry meat. This can result from contamination of the meat during the slaughtering processes. Food contact surfaces like stainless steel or plucking fingers contribute significantly to cross-contamination of poultry carcasses. Modification of these surfaces could lead to a reduction of the bacterial burden, as already proven by successful application in various food industry sectors, such as packaging.In this study, nanoscale silica-coated and uncoated stainless-steel surfaces and plucking fingers were compared on a pilot scale regarding attachment and detachment of Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella Enteritidis and Escherichia coli.The bacteria did not adhere less to the coated plucking fingers or stainless-steel sections than to the uncoated ones. The coating also did not lead to a significant difference in detachment of Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella Enteritidis and Escherichia coli from the investigated surfaces compared to the uncoated ones.Our study did not reveal any differences between the coated and uncoated surfaces with regard to the investigated bacteria. In order to achieve a better adaptation of the coating to slaughterhouse conditions, future studies should focus on its further development based on the investigation of specific coating parameters.
Analysis of Power Consumption on BOP System in a Fuel Cell Electric Bus According to the Fuel Cell Load Range
Authors: Kim Yebeen , Kim Jiwoong , Min Kyoungdoug
Published: April 2024

The proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) in a fuel cell electric bus (FCEB) converts hydrogen's chemical energy into electrical energy. The fuel cell system comprises a fuel cell stack and a balance of plant (BOP) system, which efficiently controls the stack. Fuel cell and battery are sensitive to operational temperature, which directly impacts performance, lifespan, and safety. Therefore, a thermal management system (TMS) is necessary to maintain an appropriate temperature by dissipating the heat generated by the fuel cell and battery. In this study, the exponential or quadratic relationships between the power consumption of the major components of an FCEB and various factors, such as temperature and flow rate influencing the operational behavior and control of the components, were analyzed based on the results of a dynamometer vehicle test. Additionally, the vehicle's energy flow was calculated under different fuel cell load conditions. When the fuel cell operated at 56.3 kW, TMS power was 6.6 times higher than at 20 kW. At full load, under 90 kW, it increased to 17.4 times higher. The rise in fuel cell load correlated with higher heat generation, resulting in a significant increase in power consumption for both the radiator fan and coolant pump.
Interest Rate Volatility and Economic Growth in Nigeria: New Insight from the Quantile Autoregressive Distributed Lag (QARDL) Model
Authors: Olasehinde-Williams Godwin , Omotosho Ruth , Bekun Festus Victor
Published: April 2024

This is a study on interest rate volatility, a crucial form of volatility which affects local and foreign investments in the real and financial sectors. Whether to prioritize interest rate stability to prevent distortions in the market mechanism or to prioritize other macroeconomic objectives while allowing interest rates to independently react to market forces is a key question for Nigeria’s apex monetary authority. Answering this question is the primary motivation for this research. This paper is an attempt to establish the effect of interest rate volatility on economic growth and further conclude on the suitability of the financial liberalization policy in Nigeria. To reach an evidence-based conclusion, the paper analyzes the relationship between interest rate volatility and economic growth in Nigeria for the period 1981–2020. The QARDL procedure was employed to establish the short-run and long-run quantile-specific impacts of interest rate volatility. As a final step, Granger causality tests are conducted to investigate the predictive powers of the variables. It is discovered from the econometric analysis that interest rate volatility adversely affects the economic performance of Nigeria in both the short run and long run. Consequently, full liberalization is not suitable for the economy. Moreover, we find that the short-run adverse growth effect of interest rate volatility is greater when the economy is already in a relatively weak state, whereas the long-run adverse growth effect is greater when the economy is already in a relatively strong position. The findings sufficiently prove that full interest rate liberalization is not Pareto efficient for Nigeria. Hence, greater supervision of the interest rate corridor system to reduce volatility in the rates and minimize chances of persistent upward or downward bias is advised. Study limitations and directions for further research are also provided.
An Innovation in Cancer Nursing Education Across Europe: A Pilot Evaluation
Authors: McInally Wendy , Taylor Vanessa , de los Rios de la Serna Celia Diez , Sulosaari Virpi , Trigoso Eugenia , Gomes Sara Margarida Rodrigues , Dias Ana Rita Cesario , Piskorjanac Silvija , Tanay Mary Anne , Hálfdánardóttir Halldóra , Dowling Maura
Published: April 2024

The European Oncology Nursing Society (EONS) is a pan-European not for profit society involving approximately 28,000 cancer nurses from 32 countries in the region. The European College of Cancer Nursing (ECCN) exists under the umbrella of EONS and was established in 2020 with a strategic priority to develop, promote and deliver educational opportunities for nurses across Europe. ECCN introduced a pilot on-line education programme for 20 nurses in January 2023. This study evaluated participating nurses’ views and experience of learning on the pilot programme. The study adopted a mixed method approach guided by the four levels of the Kirkpatrick theoretical framework. A dominant focus on qualitative data was used with supplementary quantitative data. The Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) was followed. Eleven nurses completed the pre-pilot online questionnaire (response rate 65%) and seven (n = 7) completed the post-pilot questionnaire (41% response rate). Five (n = 5) nurses participated in two focus group interviews. Data analysis resulted in the development of four overarching themes: A wider world of cancer nursing; Shapeless mentorship; Impact on Practice; Learning online and what now? On commencement of online education programmes, nurses value a structured timetable and support from nursing management to maximise engagement with the learning materials.
A robust alternative to examine data dependency of fixed points of quasi-contractive operators: an efficient approach that relies on the collage theorem
Authors: Gürsoy Faik
Published: April 2024

Usurelu et al. (Int J Comput Math 98:1049–1068, 2021) presented stability and data dependence results for a TTP (Thakur–Thakur–Postolache) iteration algorithm associated with quasi-strictly contractive mappings and contraction mappings, respectively, but these results were subject to strong conditions on the parametric control sequences used in the TTP iteration algorithm. This article aims to expand those results conducting a thorough analysis of the convergence of TTP and S iteration algorithms and improve those results by removing the restrictions on the parametric control sequences. Additionally, a data dependence result for the TTP iteration algorithm of quasi-strictly contractive mappings is established and several collage theorems are introduced to offer new insights into the data dependence of fixed points of quasi-strictly contractive mappings and to solve related inverse problems. In order to exhibit the dependability and effectiveness of all the results discussed in this work, a multitude of numerical examples are furnished, encompassing both linear and nonlinear differential equations (DEs) and partial differential equations (PDEs). This work can be viewed as an important refinement and complement to the study by Usurelu et al. (Int J Comput Math 98:1049–1068, 2021).
NeTrainSim: a network-level simulator for modeling freight train longitudinal motion and energy consumption
Authors: Aredah Ahmed S. , Fadhloun Karim , Rakha Hesham A.
Published: April 2024

Although train modeling research is vast, most available simulation tools are confined to city- or trip-scale analysis, primarily offering micro-level simulations of network segments. This paper addresses this void by developing the NeTrainSim simulator for heavy long-haul freight trains on a network of multiple intersecting tracks. The main objective of this simulator is to enable a comprehensive analysis of energy consumption and the associated carbon footprint for the entire train system. Four case studies were conducted to demonstrate the simulator’s performance. The first case study validates the model by comparing NeTrainSim output to empirical trajectory data. The results demonstrate that the simulated trajectory is precise enough to estimate the train energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. The second application demonstrates the train-following model considering six trains following each other. The results showcase the model ability to maintain safe-following distances between successive trains. The next study highlights the simulator’s ability to resolve train conflicts for different scenarios. Finally, the suitability of the NeTrainSim for modeling realistic railroad networks is verified through the modeling of the entire US network and comparing alternative powertrains on the fleet energy consumption.
Offline volunteering during COVID-19: a survey experiment with prior and prospective blood donors
Authors: Ehmann Stefanie , Haylock Michael , Heynold Anne Kathin
Published: April 2024

Offline volunteering was faced with new challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a survey experiment with 1207 student participants, we test the impact of informing subjects about blood donation urgency (shortage information), and secondly, the effect of providing information about measures taken to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission at blood donation centers (hygiene information), on their inclination to donate during and after the COVID-19 lockdown. The results show that shortage information increases extensive-margin willingness to donate for non-donors by 15 percentage points (pp), on average, and increases the willingness to donate quickly for all respondents. Hygiene information, however, reduces prior donors’ intention to donate again by 8pp, on average, and reduces the willingness of non-donors to donate quickly.
Okun vs. Verdoorn: distinguishing between cyclical and structural effects of output on productivity
Authors: Paternesi Meloni Walter
Published: April 2024

According to Kaldor and Verdoorn, the evolution of output is expected to structurally enhance labour productivity by generating economies of scale. At the same time, Okun’s law suggests a pro-cyclical association between output and productivity. These two aspects of the relationship often pose challenges in empirical studies when distinguishing between short-run (à la Okun) and long-run (à la Verdoorn) effects. In light of these complexities, our paper offers three contributions. First, we discuss the extant approaches to the estimation of long-run Verdoorn effects. Second, we investigate the presence of a short-run, Okun-like effect. Third, we propose a methodological advancement to separate the cyclical from the structural relationship between output and productivity. We employ panel cointegration-based techniques on data from a large set of OECD countries over the period 1970–2019. Our findings reveal a short-run coefficient of about 0.3 between growth rates and a long-run elasticity of about 0.5 between levels.
Reactor field reconstruction from sparse and movable sensors using Voronoi tessellation-assisted convolutional neural networks
Authors: Gong He-Lin , Li Han , Xiao Dunhui , Cheng Sibo
Published: April 2024

The aging of operational reactors leads to increased mechanical vibrations in the reactor interior. The vibration of the in-core sensors near their nominal locations is a new problem for neutronic field reconstruction. Current field-reconstruction methods fail to handle spatially moving sensors. In this study, we propose a Voronoi tessellation technique in combination with convolutional neural networks to handle this challenge. Observations from movable in-core sensors were projected onto the same global field structure using Voronoi tessellation, holding the magnitude and location information of the sensors. General convolutional neural networks were used to learn maps from observations to the global field. The proposed method reconstructed multi-physics fields (including fast flux, thermal flux, and power rate) using observations from a single field (such as thermal flux). Numerical tests based on the IAEA benchmark demonstrated the potential of the proposed method in practical engineering applications, particularly within an amplitude of 5 cm around the nominal locations, which led to average relative errors below 5% and 10% in the $$L_2$$

L
2

and $$L_{\infty }$$

L
∞

norms, respectively.
Beamline design for multipurpose muon beams at CSNS EMuS
Authors: Hong Yang , Song Ying-Peng , Zhou Lu-Ping , Tang Jing-Yu , Zhou Zhi-Hao , Vassilopoulos Nikolaos
Published: April 2024

A new muon beam facility, called the Experimental Muon Source (EMuS), was proposed for construction at the China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS). The design of the complex muon beamlines for the EMuS baseline scheme, which is based on superconducting solenoids, superferric dipoles and room-temperature magnets, is presented herein. Various muon beams, including surface muons, decay muons and low energy muons, have been developed for multipurpose applications. The optics design and simulation results of the trunk beamline and branch beamlines are presented. With a proton beam power of 25 kW at a standalone target station that consists of a conical graphite target and high-field superconducting solenoids, the muon beam intensity in the trunk beamline varies from 107/s for surface muons to 1010/s for high-momentum decay muons. And at the endstations, these values vary from 105/s for surface muons to 108/s for decay muons.
Neues zum Hypophysenhinterlappen
Authors: Wolf Peter
Published: April 2024

Diabetes insipidus ist eine seltene Erkrankung, klinisch charakterisiert durch eine Polyurie mit konsekutiver Polydipsie bei vorhandener Durstregulation. Die Diagnose stellt sich durch den Nachweis einer inadäquaten Konzentrationsfähigkeit des Harns aufgrund einer ungenügenden Produktion von Arginin-Vasopressin (AVP) aus dem Hypothalamus-Hypophysenhinterlappen beim zentralen Diabetes insipidus (nach neuer Nomenklatur: AVP-Defizienz) oder einer eingeschränkten Wirksamkeit von AVP im Bereich der Nieren beim renalen Diabetes insipidus (nach neuer Nomenklatur: AVP-Resistenz).

Seit vielen Jahren dient der Durstversuch zur Differenzialdiagnose der Polyurie/Polydipsie, in dem ein deutlicher Anstieg der Harnosmolarität nach längerer Flüssigkeitskarenz eine endokrine Ursache der Polyurie/Polydipsie ausschließt.

Leider ist die diagnostische Genauigkeit des Durstversuchs limitiert, da es auch bei der primären Polydipsie, der wichtigsten Differenzialdiagnose mit vermehrtem Durst und erhöhten Trinkmengen, jedoch ohne zugrundeliegende hormonelle Erkrankung, aufgrund der Polyurie zu einer eingeschränkten renalen Konzentrationsfähigkeit kommen kann. Hier bieten die direkte Stimulation der AVP-Freisetzung und die Bestimmung von Copeptin einen entscheidenden Vorteil in der Differenzialdiagnostik. Unterschiedliche Möglichkeiten der Copeptin-basierten Abklärung bei Polyurie-Polydipsie-Syndrom sollen daher in dieser Arbeit vorgestellt werden.

Weiters erwähnenswert sind sehr spannende neue Studienergebnisse aus Basel zum „Glückshormon“ Oxytocin, das ebenfalls aus dem Hypophysenhinterlappen freigesetzt wird. Hier zeigen Patient:innen mit zentralem Diabetes insipidus/AVP-Defizienz nach Stimulation einen deutlich niedrigeren Anstieg als Kontrollproband:innen, was einen Einfluss auf die psychische Gesundheit und die Lebensqualität haben könnte.
Nanoindentation responses of NiCoFe medium-entropy alloys from cryogenic to elevated temperatures
Authors: Xu Qin-qin , Karimi Kamran , Naghdi Amirhossein H. , Huo Wen-yi , Wei Chong , Papanikolaou Stefanos
Published: April 2024

NiCoFe alloy, a medium-entropy alloy, shows potential for applications in extreme environments. However, there is a theoretical barrier concerning the unclear understanding of its high-temperature dislocation motion mechanism. The load response exhibits distinct signatures relevant to thermal activation, most notably a decrease in critical force (i.e., softening) from cryogenic to elevated temperatures, e.g., from 200 to 1000 K. The onset of plasticity is characterized by the nucleation of stacking faults and prismatic loops at low temperatures, whereas the surface nucleation of Shockley partial dislocations dominates plasticity at elevated temperatures. We show that thermal effects lead to non-uniform atom pile-ups and control the rate of phase transformation with increasing indentation depth. The findings in this work extend the understanding of the mechanical response of NiCoFe alloys under indentation at different temperatures, shedding light on the underlying dislocation motion mechanisms and surface deformation characteristics. The observed transformation-induced plasticity mechanism has implications for the properties of medium-entropy alloys and their potential applications in extreme environments.
Assessing the influence of seasonal precipitation patterns on groundwater quality in the coal rich environment of Enugu, Nigeria
Authors: Nnaemeka-Okeke Rosemary Chidinma , Okeke Francis Ogochukwu
Published: April 2024

As the impacts of climate change continue to be felt around the world, understanding the effects on groundwater quality and quantity has become an important area of investigation. As a global source of water that contributes to preserving the environment, a better understanding of the effect of precipitation seasonal pattern on these systems is crucial; though studies connected to groundwater quality in this era of environmental crisis are at infancy. This study aims to evaluate the effect of precipitation seasonal pattern on groundwater quality in a coal enriched environment of developing city of west African sub-region with particular reference to Enugu, a coal city in Nigeria. Three residential areas (Abakpa, Achara, and Independence Layout) were randomly selected from high, medium, and low neighbourhood densities in the metropolis. Within the period spanning from April 2018 to March 2019, a physiochemical analysis was conducted on twelve deep wells utilizing weighted arithmetic index method. This technique was implemented in order to facilitate the assessment of the degree of water quality by translating a number of variables to just one metric value. The results of the investigation showed that the groundwater resources in the study region are mildly acidic, presumably as a result of the presence of pyrite, which is a byproduct of coal weathering, and chloride-ion-charged rains. Additionally, noticeable distinctions in the properties of water samples were observed between the dry and rainy seasons. Specifically, just 1% of the sampled water had excellent ratings, while 58.3% were considered good, 29.1% were deemed poor, and 8.3% of samples were categorized as very poor. The study concluded that coupled with climate crisis, seasonal precipitation patterns affect groundwater resources by reducing recharge, discharge, and the overall quality of water. These results have important implications for the management of groundwater resources in the region and highlight the need for continued monitoring and assessment of water quality in the face of ongoing environmental changes.
Innovative Technologies for Improving the Sustainability of the Food Drying Industry
Authors: Nowacka Małgorzata , Matys Aleksandra , Witrowa-Rajchert Dorota
Published: April 2024

Purpose of Review

Drying as a preservation method for plant materials improves microbial and nutritional quality, however, such processing needs a lot of energy. Thus, different approaches are described as the use of the nonthermal processing (pulsed electric field, ultrasound, high-pressure processing, ethanol application) to reduce drying time and obtain a higher quality of final product.

Recent Findings

There are given several examples for nonthermal processing, which highlight the positive impact on drying time, bioactive compounds content, and energy consumption for different food products. Also, the other aspects are described of the use of conventional drying methods, including hot-air drying, freeze-drying, microwave drying, infrared drying, and vacuum drying, emphasizing their advantages and limitations. Furthermore, the concept of hybrid drying technologies, integrating various methods is described. Additionally, the importance of solar drying is presented as an eco-friendly method, and the growing interest in combined drying methods. Also, a practical example of a mobile drying unit project is presented, showcasing its potential for versatile use in different locations and farms. However, for scaling up the processing, the optimization of the drying process in the laboratory scale into industrial scales is done through methods like Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and others. This paper presents a brief overview of developing drying technologies according to the sustainable approach in the food industry.

In the aim of sustainability and efficiency in food science, innovative pretreatments coupled with hybrid drying methods, play a crucial role in producing high-quality products with lower energy consumption and reduced investment costs, emphasizing the importance of incorporating renewable energy in new drying solutions.
Optimal pumping policy from well field connected with a stream
Authors: Kerebih Mulu Sewinet , Aynalem Solomon Bogale , Keshari Ashok K.
Published: April 2024

Conjunctive use management of water resources is of paramount importance in the backdrop of the growing demand for freshwater resources. With this viewpoint, this study is aimed to present a methodological approach utilizing the combined use of simulation and optimization models for evolving strategies or policies for the management of water resources in a well-field connected to a stream. The proposed methodology incorporates the coupling of the groundwater simulation model with the optimization model for decision-making through the response matrix method. In this study, a numerical groundwater flow model using MODFLOW was used to simulate the response of stream-aquifer interactions. A linear optimization model was formulated to account for the best optimal groundwater withdrawal taking into consideration the allowable drawdown, permissible stream flow depletion, and satisfaction of the water demands. Such management options permit the investigation of alternative strategies for groundwater abstraction in a well-field hydraulically connected to a stream for sustainable development of water resources. The model was applied in a hypothetical well field study area hydraulically connected to a stream and satisfactory results were obtained. The methodology was also very important to understand the tradeoff between groundwater withdrawal and the depletion of flow to the nearby stream. This approach was applied to the Aynalem well field stream-aquifer system which is located in Northern Ethiopia. Results show that groundwater extraction from the Aynalem well field triggers stream flow depletion and it is possible to decrease the stream flow depletion by 3.5–4.5% by adjusting current groundwater withdrawal schedules and configuration of existing wells.
Further insights into steady three-dimensional MHD Sakiadis flows of radiating-reacting viscoelastic nanofluids via Wakif’s-Buongiorno and Maxwell’s models
Authors: Wakif Abderrahim , Zaydan Mostafa , Sehaqui Rachid
Published: April 2024

Keeping in mind the stress relaxation tendency of many viscoelastic multi-phase flows (e.g., polymer solution flows and transport phenomena of red cell suspensions within blood media), the present research investigation intends principally to develop a realistic model for revealing properly the aspects of reacting-radiating Maxwell nanofluids during their laminar boundary layer flows in the steady regime over a horizontal impermeable surface under a transversal magnetic influence. For this purpose, the principal leading differential formulation is derived theoretically by linking Wakif’s-Buongiorno approach with Maxwell’s model. By invoking fundamentally the general boundary layer assumptions and the passive control strategy for the nanoparticles, the governing PDEs’ formulation is simplified accordingly and then stated properly for the case of the convective heating condition at the impermeable bi-stretching surface. By executing a feasible non-dimensionalization technique, the monitoring ODEs’ system is achieved successfully, whose solutions are presented precisely in different illustrative scenarios using Richardson’s extrapolation method. After carrying out successfully several validating tests, it is demonstrated that the weakly viscoelastic feature has generally a slight delaying effect on the nanofluid motion. This dynamical weakening can be reinforced more with the generation of thermal energy by intensifying the external magnetic field source. Additionally, these physical factors show an intensifying influence on the surface drag forces. However, a dropping impression is seen for the local heat transfer at the contact surface. Contrary to the broadening impact of the radiative heat transfer as well as the convective heating and thermophoresis mechanisms on the thermal and mass boundary layer regions, it is witnessed that the first-order chemical reaction mechanism and Brownian’s motion exhibit a shrinking impact on the mass boundary layer region.
Analysis of the onset, withdrawal, and variability of monsoon rainfall in the face of climate change
Authors: Shariot-Ullah Md. , Akhter Salma , Acharjee Tapos Kumar , Hasan Md. Moudud
Published: April 2024

Climate change is affecting the precipitation system in Bangladesh, particularly in the northwestern hydrological zone. This study analyzed the monsoon rainfall variability from 1991 to 2015, revealing a shifting pattern and past trends. This study used the Mann–Kendall test and Sen’s slope (MAKESENS) statistical model to evaluate the annual total rainfall and monsoon rainfall. Approximately 71–78% of the total rainfall occurred during the monsoon season at all stations, with Rangpur being the rainiest and Rajshahi being the driest. The annual rainfall trend decreased, with highly variable arrival and withdrawal days. The monsoon arrived early by 2 to 39 days and late by 1 to 72 days from the reference day. The withdrawal of monsoon rainfall occurred 1 to 38 days early and 1 to 39 days late. These findings can be used to plan and manage agricultural practices at the local level in northwestern Bangladesh.
Erfahrungen von Pflegekräften mit dem COVID-19 Early Warning Score in der akutstationären Versorgung
Authors: Pann Kathrin Julia , Ewers Andre
Published: April 2024

Zusammenfassung: Hintergrund: In allen Phasen der COVID-19-Erkrankung besteht das Risiko einer akuten Zustandsverschlechterung von Patient_innen. Um Risikopatient_innen frühzeitig zu identifizieren, wurde im April 2020 der COVID-19-EWS Salzburg im Uniklinikum Salzburg eingeführt. Dessen Eignung, Praxistauglichkeit und Relevanz sind für die akutstationäre COVID-19-Versorgung bisher unbekannt. Ziel: Das Ziel dieser qualitativen Studie bestand darin, die Relevanz und Praxistauglichkeit des COVID-19-EWS Salzburg als Risikoassessmentinstrument zu beschreiben. Methode: Es wurden neun leitfadengestützte Expert_inneninterviews mit Pflegekräften der COVID-19-Akutstation geführt und inhaltsanalytisch ausgewertet. Ergebnisse: Aus Sicht der Pflegekräfte handelt es sich beim EWS um ein praxisrelevantes Instrument. Dieses kann die Entscheidungsfindung unterstützen, die Patient_innensicherheit erhöhen sowie die interprofessionelle Kommunikation erleichtern. Sowohl der EWS als auch die Erfahrung in der Versorgung von COVID-19-Patienten_innen erwiesen sich als relevant für Entscheidungen im Zusammenhang mit dem Management von klinischen Verschlechterungen. Der EWS vermittelte insbesondere neuen und unerfahrenen Pflegekräften ein Sicherheitsgefühl in der Patient_innenversorgung. Schlussfolgerung: Beim COVID-19-EWS Salzburg handelt es sich aus Sicht der Pflegekräfte um ein hilfreiches und praxistaugliches Risikoassessmentinstrument, welches das Clinical Judgement ergänzt. Ein Adaptionsbedarf betreffend der Parameter Sauerstoffsättigung und Sauerstoffbedarf konnte identifiziert werden.
Magnetospheric‐Ionospheric‐Atmospheric Implications From the Juno Flyby of Ganymede
Authors: Waite J. H. , Greathouse T. K. , Carberry Mogan S. R. , Sulaiman A. H. , Valek P. , Allegrini F. , Ebert R. W. , Gladstone G. R. , Kurth W. S. , Connerney J. E. P. , Clark G. , Bagenal F. , Duling S. , Romanelli N. , Bolton S. , Vorburger A. , Paranicas C. , Kollmann P. , Mauk B. , Hansen C. , Buccino D. , Johnson R. E. , Wilson R. J. , Teolis B.
Published: April 2024

Juno flew over the northern mid‐latitudes of Ganymede during orbit 34 of the Juno mission, reaching an altitude of 1,053 km (16:56:07.972 UTC) at a sub spacecraft latitude/longitude of 33.66N, 57.5W degrees on 7 June 2021. Between 16:43 and 17:02 UT, Juno pierced Ganymede's magnetosphere at a velocity relative to Ganymede of 18.57 km s−1. Juno's instrumentation provided a unique opportunity to sample the local environment of Ganymede and its magnetosphere. We present measurements of the composition of the polar ionospheric outflow and the energetic electrons that penetrate Ganymede's atmosphere and produce its aurora. When these new observations are combined with modeling, conclusions can be drawn that affect our understanding of the atmosphere of Ganymede. The measured JADE precipitating plasma electrons provide an energy flux beyond that needed to create the observed oxygen emissions measured by UVS, but the electron energy spectrum is optically thin to the sparse atmosphere and does not provide the observed oxygen ultraviolet emission unless the O2 column density is increased by over an order of magnitude compared to previous atmospheric models. More than 99% of the electron energy flux passes through the atmosphere into the ice, thereby increasing the H2 and O2 content of the atmosphere. The increased H2 and O2 production is largely responsible for increasing the oxygen column density to a level that produces within known uncertainties the OI135.6 and OI130.4 nm emissions when bombarded by the electron energy flux observed by JADE. This suggests that past modeling efforts have underestimated the density of the atmosphere by over an order of magnitude.
Evolution of Impact Basin Gravity Signatures on the Lunar Farside: A Long‐Term Alteration Process
Authors: Lompa T. , Ebbing J. , Wünnemann K.
Published: April 2024

Lunar impact basins are critical markers to understand the early bombardment history. This study focuses on isostatic compensation processes at 16 lunar farside basins, exploring how long‐term alteration processes affect estimates of impactor sizes and timing. Using a lithospheric flexure model, we analyze the isostatically compensated gravity signature of these basins. Our approach is based on previously published basin formation models using the iSALE‐2D shock physics code. Here we investigate how isostatic compensation processes alter the gravity signature using models of basin formation as initial conditions. We compare our results with the present day observed gravity data. We assume that isostatic compensation is the result of flexural deformation of the crust‐mantle boundary with varying lithospheric elastic thicknesses. Our results indicate that the effect of isostatic compensation on the gravity signature varies depending on the thermal conditions at the time of impact. We find that despite this variability, the overall influence of isostatic compensation on the gravity signature is generally moderate to minor. Additionally, our analysis is consistent with previous studies that have shown that the elastic thickness varies across the Moon. Our findings contribute to our understanding of the relationship between basin formation and the thermal evolution of the Moon. The variations in elastic thickness found provide nuanced insights into lunar geological processes and improve our understanding of the early history of the Moon.
Trade‐Off Between Light Deprivation and Desiccation in Intertidal Seagrasses Due To Periodic Tidal Inundation and Exposure: Insights From a Data‐Calibrated Model
Authors: Wang Xinyan , Adams Matthew P. , Shao Dongdong
Published: April 2024

Some seagrass species thrive in shallow intertidal zones globally, adapting to periodic tidal inundation and exposure with distinctive physiological traits and offering crucial ecosystem services. However, predicting the responses of intertidal seagrasses to external stressors is hampered by the complexity of the dynamic and harsh environments they occupy. Intertidal seagrass growth models, especially those incorporating dynamic physiological responses, are scarce in the literature. Our study comprehensively collated relevant data from the literature to parameterize the relationship between air exposure, seagrass leaf water content and photosynthetic efficiency to inform new growth rate functions for generalizable intertidal seagrass growth models. We tested the applicability of these model formulations for scenarios with varying physiological process assumptions, seagrass species, tidal conditions, meadow elevations and water turbidity. We found that neglecting air‐exposed physiological responses (i.e., leaf water content loss and reduced photosynthetic efficiency) can substantially overestimate seagrass growth rates. We also observed a trade‐off between light deprivation and desiccation on intertidal seagrass growth under specific tidal ranges and turbidity conditions. This can yield an “optimal” elevation where overall stress of desiccation (increasing with meadow elevation) and light deprivation (decreasing with meadow elevation) are minimized. The predicted optimal elevation, that is, the most suitable habitat for intertidal seagrass, moves upward as water turbidity increases. Our study provides conceptual and quantitative guidance for ecological modelers to include air exposure responses of intertidal seagrasses in coastal ecosystem models. The model also helps to evaluate the viability of intertidal seagrass habitats and inform decisions on coastal ecosystem management under changing environmental conditions.