bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heat Transfer in the Locomotive Boiler
Authors: Fry Lawford H.
Published: December 2022

It is shown that the total heat absorption in a locomotive boiler for any assumed rate of heat release and weight of gases of combustion can be predicted with all of the accuracy practically necessary. The over-all heat transfer is considered as taking place in two separate operations which can be represented by two formulas, a fourth-power equation of the usual type for the radiation in the firebox, and a double logarithmic equation for the convection in the flues. This form of equation was suggested by Fessenden (1), and its usefulness has been extended by the coefficients developed by the present author. It may not represent the exact physical reactions of the process of heat transfer, but it has the pragmatic sanction of giving practically accurate results under many different conditions. Actually that is all that can be claimed for any other heat-transfer formula even if it uses the Reynolds number. Fessenden pointed out, “It should be noted that the apparently rational idea that the rate of heat transfer is directly proportional to the temperature difference is, after all, only an assumption that has been accepted for so long that it has come to be regarded as an axiomatic statement of fact.”
Logographs
Authors: Tour R. S.
Published: December 2022

A different type of chart is presented for graphical solution of equations of the form TpUqVrWs = K. The charts are called “logographs” as distinct from nomographs and depend basically on the addition of logarithms. Logograph charts develop from the fact that a straight line drawn on semilog paper represents a function of the form: log y = a + bx, or x = c + n log y. The construction of logographs is explained and exemplified in the development of a chart for the calculation of heat-transfer coefficients in turbulent flow. As examples of more elaborate logographs, charts are also offered for the turbulent flow of fluids in pipes and for the flow of fluids through sharp-edged orifices. The equations underlying the last two charts represent new forms of the standard expressions and are briefly discussed and their limitations indicated.
Circular Bulging of Aluminum-Alloy Sheet at Room and Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Sachs George , Espey George , Kasik G. B.
Published: December 2022

In this paper preliminary results are reported on the strength characteristics and forming limits of various aluminum-alloy sheet, when subjected to hydraulic pressure over a circular area at temperatures up to 500 F. The strain distributions were analyzed by means of a photo-grid, after these bulges failed. The bulges exhibited a practically balanced biaxial strain state over most of the contour with the exception of a very narrow range of local deformation in the vicinity of the fractures. The maximum meridional strain outside the necked area observed at the pole of a bulge, in spite of its biaxial nature, generally exceeded the uniform elongation known from tensile tests. The forming limits for all annealed conditions increased considerably with increasing temperature if the temperature exceeded a certain critical value, between 250 and 400 F, depending upon the alloy. The heat-treated conditions of the alloys 24S and 61S were only slightly affected by the testing temperature, while the forming limits (uniform stretch) of 75S-T, R301W, and R301T were materially increased at elevated temperatures. The reduction of thickness, which is a measure of the ductility of an alloy, followed approximately the same trend as the forming limit.
Coaster Gate and Handling Equipment for River Outlet Conduits in Shasta Dam
Authors: Warnock J. E. , Pound H. J.
Published: December 2022

At Shasta Dam, a coaster gate is used to close the intake of any one of the eighteen 102-in. conduits in the spillway section of the dam. Each conduit is provided with a control valve. The coaster gate is used to close the intake of each conduit whenever required for inspection and servicing of the control valve and conduit. It may also be used for emergency closure in the event of failure of a control valve. Since the gate design is predicated on emergency conditions of maximum head, when it is subjected to large unbalanced pressures, hydraulic model studies were conducted to determine the best shape of gate to minimize the downpull force to which it might be subjected in an emergency closing. The procedure followed in conducting the studies and the final installations are treated in this paper.
Physical Properties of Resin-Impregnated Plaster
Authors: Delmonte John
Published: December 2022

While development work on impregnated plaster bodies has been in progress for many years, it was not until 1945 that the process was finally commercialized with low-viscosity furane resins, and extensive applications undertaken in the tooling field, and in general improvements of plaster-of-Paris patterns and forms. The impregnation of plaster of Paris with liquid thermosetting resins and the subsequent conversion of the product with heat, result in the formation of a material which has been called “Plas-preg.” In this paper the methods of producing this material, its physical properties, and applications are discussed.
Failure of Ductile Metals in Tension
Authors: Sachs G. , Lubahn J. D.
Published: December 2022

The extensive fabrication of aluminum-alloy sheet in the aircraft industries has revealed the lack of fundamental knowledge regarding the phenomena which explain the performance of metals under various stress and strain states. Previous investigations appear to have neglected entirely both the effects of the part geometry and the fact that the strength of the metal and limit of forming are frequently determined by a process of instability, or “necking,” rather than by the process of fracturing. In this paper a theory of necking is developed in order to predict the forming limits for various stress or strain states based upon an analysis of the true stress-strain curve in pure tension. A criterion for necking is advanced, based upon the maximum-load (or pressure) conception of instability, and is applied to different geometrical shapes formed at room temperature. Future publications will present, in support of the criterion advanced, experimental analyses of the forming of different geometrical shapes under various loading conditions and stress and strain states.
The Necking of Tensile-Test Specimens
Authors: Lubahn J. D.
Published: December 2022

The conventional tensile test is the basis of acceptance tests, and its results are extensively used to evaluate the structural metals regarding their relative performance the forming and their strength in service. However, it appears that the significance of the phenomena encountered in a tensile test are little understood, in spite of a large number of investigations. In this paper, the strains encountered in long rectangular tensile-test bars of the aluminum alloys 24S-O and 24S-T have been investigated in detail. The theoretical conceptions previously advanced, regarding the necking of tensile-test bars, have been confirmed experimentally.
The Elbow Combustion Chamber
Authors: Mayers M. A. , Carter W. W.
Published: December 2022

A description is given of the “elbow” combustion chamber, developed for use in the gas-turbine power plant designed and built for the United States Navy by the Elliott Company. This type provides extremely high heat-release rates which is an essential characteristic for gas-turbine applications. The fuel-oil-burning system which utilizes standard Diesel fuel-injection equipment has been developed to a high point of efficiency, and may be varied over a range from full load to 1/10 full load without material change in quality of atomization. The paper discusses in detail the air-flow characteristics, fuel supply, ignition and control devices, and analyzes the combustion-chamber performance-test data.
Analysis of Special Electronic-Tube Tests
Authors: Campbell J. H. , Donsbach C. G.
Published: December 2022

The complexity of manufacturing electronic tubes is such that professional groups normally associated with design and laboratory activities are called upon to work in the factory. These groups contribute considerably to the control of material assembly, test, and the outgoing quality of the product. In this industry many variables exist and because none of the tube parts can be tested electrically until the tube is completed, a system of “statistical quality control” is in order. This paper illustrates improvements which may be accomplished through special tests on tubes in the course of production, followed by statistical analysis of the results.
Further Observation of Graphitization in Aluminum-Killed Carbon-Molybdenum-Steel Steam Piping
Authors: Emerson R. W. , Morrow Mathew
Published: December 2022

Among graphitization of steel pipe studies being carried on, the present one deals with what the authors have termed “slip-plane” graphitization, which describes a condition of graphite segregation along slip planes where local “yielding” or localized plastic deformation had previously occurred. Such graphitization has been found to vary widely from the outside to inside of a pipe and from quadrant to quadrant around the pipe periphery. It has been determined that “nodular” graphite segregation whether of the “isotherm” or slip-plane type is as effective as “chain” graphite in reducing the ductility of low-carbon or low-carbon-molybdenum steel.
The Effect of Measurement Dead Time in the Control of Certain Processes
Authors: Eckman D. P.
Published: December 2022

The purpose of this paper is to report on a series of automatic-control tests which demonstrate the importance of instantaneous controller-mechanism response in self-balancing potentiometer controllers. The automatic-control tests were made with both two-position and proportional-reset control. Other tests, dealing with the importance of measurement dead zone of the controller, are included, noting the relation between dead zone of measurement and dead time of controller response.
Strategies for Long-Term Maintenance of Physical Activity Among Older Adults: A Qualitative Study From India
Authors: Singh Noopur , Sulkers Esther , Van Dijk Hylke W. , Sanderman Robbert , Ranchor Adelita V.
Published: December 2022

Long-term physical activity (PA) maintenance is challenging for older adults. Equipping older adults with strategies to support long-term PA maintenance can be an effective way to tackle this problem. Moreover, there is a lack of studies regarding long-term PA maintenance among older adults from non-Western settings. This qualitative research is one of the first studies conducted in an Indian context that explores the strategies developed and utilized by older adults who have successfully maintained their PA for the long term (>1 year) in their home settings. In-depth semistructured interviews were conducted with 19 older adults, and data were analyzed using an inductive reflexive thematic analysis approach. This article reports five strategies of PA maintenance, together comprising 13 substrategies. This study highlights the importance of using strategies to support the long-term maintenance of PA among older adults in India. However, these strategies would also be useful in other sociocultural contexts.
Three-dimensional heart extracellular matrix enhances chemically induced direct cardiac reprogramming
Authors: Jin Yoonhee , Kim Hyeok , Min Sungjin , Choi Yi Sun , Seo Seung Ju , Jeong Eunseon , Kim Su Kyeom , Lee Hyang-Ae , Jo Sung-Hyun , Park Jae-Hyun , Park Bong-Woo , Sim Woo-Sup , Kim Jin-Ju , Ban Kiwon , Kim Yun-Gon , Park Hun-Jun , Cho Seung-Woo
Published: December 2022

Direct cardiac reprogramming has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for cardiac regeneration. Full chemical reprogramming with small molecules to generate cardiomyocytes may be more amenable than genetic reprogramming for clinical applications as it avoids safety concerns associated with genetic manipulations. However, challenges remain regarding low conversion efficiency and incomplete cardiomyocyte maturation. Furthermore, the therapeutic potential of chemically induced cardiomyocytes (CiCMs) has not been investigated. Here, we report that a three-dimensional microenvironment reconstituted with decellularized heart extracellular matrix can enhance chemical reprogramming and cardiac maturation of fibroblasts to cardiomyocytes. The resultant CiCMs exhibit elevated cardiac marker expression, sarcomeric organization, and improved electrophysiological features and drug responses. We investigated the therapeutic potential of CiCMs reprogrammed in three-dimensional heart extracellular matrix in a rat model of myocardial infarction. Our platform can facilitate the use of CiCMs for regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and drug screening.
Fully recyclable multifunctional adhesive with high durability, transparency, flame retardancy, and harsh-environment resistance
Authors: Wang Zi-Hao , Liu Bo-Wen , Zeng Fu-Rong , Lin Xin-Cen , Zhang Jia-Yan , Wang Xiu-Li , Wang Yu-Zhong , Zhao Hai-Bo
Published: December 2022

Recyclable/reversible adhesives have attracted growing attention for sustainability and intelligence but suffer from low adhesion strength and poor durability in complex conditions. Here, we demonstrate an aromatic siloxane adhesive that exploits stimuli-responsive reversible assembly driven by π-π stacking, allowing for elimination and activation of interfacial interactions via infiltration-volatilization of ethanol. The robust cohesive energy from water-insensitive siloxane assembly enables durable strong adhesion (3.5 MPa shear strength on glasses) on diverse surfaces. Long-term adhesion performances are realized in underwater, salt, and acid/alkali solutions (pH 1-14) and at low/high temperatures (−10-90°C). With reversible assembly/disassembly, the adhesive is closed-loop recycled (~100%) and reused over 100 times without adhesion loss. Furthermore, the adhesive has unique combinations of high transparency (~98% in the visible light region of 400-800 nm) and flame retardancy. The experiments and theoretical calculations reveal the corresponding mechanism at the molecular level. This π-π stacking–driven siloxane assembly strategy opens up an avenue for high-performance adhesives with circular life and multifunctional integration.
Targeting cytokines in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Neurath Markus F.
Published: December 2022

Targeting cytokines in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a useful clinical approach. Potential therapies for IBD include regulatory T cell transfer to restore cytokine balance, blocking proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-12 and IL-23) or their receptors (sIL-6R and IL-36R), or inhibiting signaling kinases (e.g., JAK). An emerging trend in IBD therapy is to combine several anti-cytokine agents simultaneously.
Plasma-Like Culture Medium for the Study of Viruses
Authors: Golikov Mikhail V. , Bartosch Birke , Smirnova Olga A. , Ivanova Olga N. , Ivanov Alexander V.
Published: December 2022

Viral infections attract more and more attention, especially after the emergence of novel zoonotic coronaviruses and the monkeypox virus over the last 2 decades. Research on viruses is based to a great extent on mammalian cell lines that are permissive to the respective viruses.
Draft Genome Sequence of Enterococcus dispar CoE-457-22, Isolated from Traditionally Produced Montenegrin Dry Sausage
Authors: Daza Prieto Beatriz , Raicevic Nadja , Ladstätter Johann , Hyden Patrick , Jovanovic Ana , Stöger Anna , Cabal Rosel Adriana , Mach Robert L. , Ruppitsch Werner , Martinovic Aleksandra
Published: December 2022

Enterococcus dispar
was isolated for the first time from synovial fluid and stool cultures and described as a new species in 1991. Here, we report the genome of
E. dispar
CoE-457-22, which was obtained from traditionally produced Montenegrin dry sausage (sudzuk).
Draft Genome Sequence of
Streptomyces
sp. Strain G-5, Isolated from Marine Sponge, Kochi Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Matsubara Yuta , Sakurai Tetsuya , Ulanova Dana
Published: December 2022

Actinomycetes isolated from the marine environment often require the presence of seawater for their growth and/or morphological development. Here, we report the isolation and genome sequencing of marine sponge-derived
Streptomyces
sp. strain G-5 with such a seawater requirement.
The Endophytic Root Microbiome Is Different in Healthy and Ralstonia solanacearum-Infected Plants and Is Regulated by a Consortium Containing Beneficial Endophytic Bacteria
Authors: Li Yiting , Qi Gaofu , Xie Ziqiong , Li Baolong , Wang Rui , Tan Jun , Shi Heli , Xiang Bikun , Zhao Xiuyun
Published: December 2022

Bacterial wilt disease causes heavy yield losses in many crops. Endophytic microbiomes play important roles in control of plant diseases.
Clinical Outcomes and Risk Factors for Death following Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Infection in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Lu Jingli , Zhang Ailing , Han Lu , Guo Zhen , Cui Wenjing , Jiang Yuhua , Meng Haiyang
Published: December 2022

Carbapenem-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(CRKP) infections are increasingly identified in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs), but data on the clinical outcomes and risk factors for death following such infections remain limited. Here, we reported CRKP infection was associated with 38.3% of overall 30-day mortality in SOTRs.
Laboratory Study on Frictional Behavior of Rock Blocks of Meter Scale. Methods and Preliminary Results
Authors: Kocharyan G. G. , Ostapchuk A. A. , Pavlov D. V. , Gridin G. A. , Morozova K. G. , Hongwen J. , Panteleev I. A.
Published: December 2022

Abstract—The paper introduces a new, unique for Russia, meter-scale laboratory setup created in the Institute of Geosphere Dynamics of the Russian Academy of Sciences (IDG RAS) to study the development of different sliding regimes on rock discontinuities. The experimental procedure is described and the results of the first series of tests aimed at studying the formation of different sliding regimes on rock faults are presented. The laboratory fault was a loaded contact of two 75-cm long blocks made of diabase. The fault was filled with granular material (a fault gouge). Normal stresses on the fault can reach 10 MPa. By varying fault gouge composition and loading rate, we reproduced a wide range of sliding regimes: sliding with constant velocity, regular stick-slip, and aperiodic slow slip episodes. It is shown that a variation in the loading rate can cause a significant change in the sliding regime. Intense frictional crushing of gouge grains is detected in the experiments at relatively low normal pressure of 2 MPa. In the case of high-amplitude stick-slip, besides crushing of the gouge material, also structural phase transformations of quartz grains corresponding to a local temperature increase up to 700°C are revealed. A possible set of the problems related to deformation processes in seismogenic fault zones that can be addressed by modeling on such setups—the pre-seismic stage of inelastic behavior of the main fault zone at critical stress—is outlined.
Ovarian torsion: incremental role of contrast-enhanced ultrasound
Authors: Gupta Shivani , Manchanda Smita , Dadhwal Vatsla
Published: December 2022

We highlight the role of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) as a supplementary modality to ultrasound (USG) examination in ovarian torsion in this case report. The reported patient had clinical history suspicious of ovarian torsion; however, USG and Doppler flow study findings were equivocal. CEUS was performed to solve the diagnostic dilemma and to know the status of ovarian parenchymal viability which revealed non-enhancement of the ovarian cyst wall and pedicle throughout the USG examination thus establishing the diagnosis of non-viable or infarcted ovarian parenchyma. The per operative and histopathology findings were consistent with our CEUS findings. CEUS is an emerging promising modality which provides information regarding parenchymal perfusion, resulting in a reliable diagnosis of ovarian torsion along with information on ovarian parenchymal viability. This ability makes CEUS equivalent to contrast-enhanced CT or MRI.
Treatment of induced oligometastatic disease after partial response to immunochemotherapy in patient with stage IV non-small cell lung cancer and severe toxicity
Authors: Mughal Hamza Abrar , Mouritzen Mette T , Takacs-Szabó Zsuzsanna , Szejniuk Weronika Maria
Published: December 2022

Treatment of induced oligometastatic disease after partial response to systemic antineoplastic therapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains controversial. The introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionised the treatment of stage IV NSCLC. While ICI combined with chemotherapy (ChT) leads to longer duration of response and higher response rates compared with ChT alone, it can also cause serious adverse events (AEs) resulting in treatment discontinuation. In case of treatment discontinuation due to AEs after partial response to systemic treatment, surgical treatment of residual disease can be considered as it could lead to complete response. We present a case of a patient with stage IV NSCLC who is currently alive without any signs of cancer after partial response to ICI/ChT followed by surgical removal of residual disease.
Mpox (monkeypox) causing penile lesions and acute urinary retention
Authors: Hackett Natalia , Narayan Prabhat , Huf Simon
Published: December 2022

This is the first ever reported case of mpox (monkeypox) causing penile lesions and acute urinary retention (AUR) in a homosexual man, who had intercourse with his confirmed positive mpox (monkeypox) partner. The patient did not have any significant comorbidities and was managed conservatively with an urgent urethral catheter and co-amoxiclav as per the microbiologist’s advice to cover for his skin soft tissue infection (SSI). His blood parameters, urine and blood cultures were all normal. He was successfully trialled without a catheter (TWOCd) in a few days and was discharged home with an outpatient follow-up plan in Andrology Clinic with a flow rate, postvoid residual (PVR), International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) and pain score. He was also planned to be contacted by the sexual health team to ensure a holistic follow-up.
Evaluation of editors’ abilities to predict the citation potential of research manuscripts submitted to
The BMJ
: a cohort study
Authors: Schroter Sara , Weber Wim E J , Loder Elizabeth , Wilkinson Jack , Kirkham Jamie J
Published: December 2022

Objective

To evaluate the ability of
The BMJ
editors to predict the number of times submitted research manuscripts will be cited.

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

Manuscripts submitted to
The BMJ
, reviewed, and subsequently scheduled for discussion at a prepublication meeting between 27 August 2015 and 29 December 2016.

Participants

10
BMJ
research team editors.

Main outcome measures

Reviewed manuscripts were rated independently by attending editors for citation potential in the year of first publication plus the next year: no citations, below average (<10 citations), average (10-17 citations), or high (>17 citations). Predicted citations were subsequently compared with actual citations extracted from Web of Science (WOS).

Results

Of 534 manuscripts reviewed, 505 were published as full length articles (219 in
The BMJ)
by end of 2019 and indexed in WOS, 22 were unpublished, and one abstract was withdrawn. Among the 505 manuscripts, the median (IQR [range]) number of citations in the year of publication plus the following year was 9 (4-17 [0-150]); 277 (55%) manuscripts were cited <10 times, 105 (21%) were cited 10-17 times, and 123 (24%) cited >17 times. Manuscripts accepted by
The BMJ
were cited more highly (median 12 (IQR 7-24) citations) than those rejected (median 7 (3-12) citations). For all 10 editors, predicted ratings tended to increase in line with actual citations, but with considerable variation within categories; nine failed to identify the correct citation category for >50% (range 31%-52%) of manuscripts, and κ ranged between 0.01 to 0.19 for agreement between predicted and actual categories. Editors more often rated papers that achieved high actual citation counts as having low citation potential than the reverse. Collectively, the mean percentage of editors predicting the correct citation category was 43%, and for 160 (32%) manuscripts at least 50% of editors predicted the right category.

Conclusions

Editors weren’t good at estimating the citation potential of manuscripts individually or as a group; there is no wisdom of the crowd when it comes to
BMJ
editors.
Effect of health system on the association of rurality and level of disadvantage with receipt of diabetic eye screening
Authors: Lock Loren J , Channa Roomasa , Brennan Meghan B , Cao Ying , Liu Yao
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Rural versus urban disparities have been observed in diabetic eye screening, but whether the level of disadvantage in rural versus urban areas is related to these disparities is unclear. Our goal was to determine the role of level of disadvantage in explaining the effect of health systems on rural and urban disparities in diabetic eye screening.

Research design and methods

This is a retrospective cohort study using an all-payer, state-wide claims database covering over 75% of Wisconsin residents. We included adults with diabetes (18–75 years old) who had claims billed throughout the baseline (2012–2013) and measurement (2013–2014) years. We performed multivariable regressions to assess factors associated with receipt of diabetic eye screening. The primary exposure was the primary care clinic’s combined level of rurality and disadvantage. We adjusted for the health system as well as patient-level variables related to demographics and comorbidities. Health system was defined as an associated group of physicians and/or clinics.

Results

A total of 118 707 adults with diabetes from 698 primary care clinics in 143 health systems met the inclusion criteria. Patients from urban underserved clinics were less likely to receive screening than those from rural underserved clinics before adjusting for health system in the model. After adjusting for health system fixed effects, however, the directionality of the relationship between clinic rurality and screening reversed: patients from urban underserved clinics were more likely to receive screening than those from rural underserved clinics. Similar findings were observed for both Medicare and non-Medicare subgroups.

Conclusions

The effect of health system on receipt of diabetic eye screening in rural versus urban areas is most pronounced in underserved areas. Health systems, particularly those providing care to urban underserved populations, have an opportunity to increase screening rates by leveraging health system-level interventions to support patients in overcoming barriers from social determinants of health.
Research engagement by British early-career practitioners in nephrology: a multidisciplinary survey
Authors: Bottomley Matthew J , Beckwith Hannah , McMahon Aisling , Nation Michael , Wheeler David C , Greenwood Sharlene , Hughes Jeremy , Sheerin Neil S
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To establish barriers and motivators underlying research engagement among early-career practitioners in nephrology across the UK, in order to guide potential interventions to enhance research involvement in renal units.

Design

Cross-sectional online survey employing a range of free-text, Likert scale and binomial/multiple-choice responses, distributed via mailing lists and social media. Topics covered research experience, research involvement and barriers, impact of COVID-19 and strategies to improve research engagement. Thematic analysis was used to assess free-text responses.

Setting

Renal units throughout the UK.

Participants

Non-consultant healthcare staff self-identifying as working in nephrology were included (n=211), with responses from non-UK respondents or consultant nephrologists excluded (n=12).

Results

Responses were received from across the multidisciplinary team (physicians (n=83) and nurses (n=83)) and other allied health professionals (n=45). Most were aware of ongoing local research, but under half of them were actively involved. Multivariate analysis indicated employment as a physician, protected time for research activity and provision of appropriate training were associated with greater research experience and output. There was general enthusiasm to undertake research, but perceived barriers included insufficient staffing, lack of time, funding and encouragement. COVID-19 was felt to have further impacted negatively upon opportunities. Among the suggested strategies to promote engagement, mentorship and an online research resource were felt to be of most interest.

Conclusions

In the first survey of this type in nephrology, we demonstrate differences across the multidisciplinary spectrum in perceived research experience and accessibility, which have been worsened by COVID-19. Our findings will guide strategies to broaden engagement in early-career practitioners and serve as a baseline to assess the impact of these interventions.
Assessing the impact of online postal self-sampling for sexually transmitted infections on health inequalities, access to care and clinical outcomes in the UK: protocol for ASSIST, a realist evaluation
Authors: Gibbs Jo , Howarth Alison R , Sheringham Jessica , Jackson Louise J , Wong Geoff , Copas Andrew , Crundwell David J , Mercer Catherine H , Mohammed Hamish , Ross Jonathan , Sullivan Ann K , Murray Elizabeth , Burns Fiona M
Published: December 2022

Introduction

The past decade has seen a rapid increase in the volume and proportion of testing for sexually transmitted infections that are accessed via online postal self-sampling services in the UK. ASSIST (Assessing the impact of online postal self-sampling for sexually transmitted infections on health inequalities, access to care and clinical outcomes in the UK) aims to assess the impact of these services on health inequalities, access to care, and clinical and economic outcomes, and to identify the factors that influence the implementation and sustainability of these services.

Methods and analysis

ASSIST is a mixed-methods, realist evaluated, national study with an in-depth focus of three case study areas (Birmingham, London and Sheffield). An impact evaluation, economic evaluation and implementation evaluation will be conducted. Findings from these evaluations will be analysed together to develop programme theories that explain the outcomes. Data collection includes quantitative data (using national, clinic based and online datasets); qualitative interviews with service users, healthcare professionals and key stakeholders; contextual observations and documentary analysis. STATA 17 and NVivo will be used to conduct the quantitative and qualitative analysis, respectively.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by South Central – Berkshire Research Ethics Committee (ref: 21/SC/0223). All quantitative data accessed and collected will be anonymous. Participants involved with qualitative interviews will be asked for informed consent, and data collected will be anonymised.

Our dissemination strategy has been developed to access and engage key audiences in a timely manner and findings will be disseminated via the study website, social media, in peer-reviewed scientific journals, at research conferences, local meetings and seminars and at a concluding dissemination and networking event for stakeholders.
Antirheumatic treatment, disease activity and risk ofStaphylococcus aureusbacteraemia in rheumatoid arthritis: a nationwide nested case–control study
Authors: Dieperink Sabine Sparre , Mehnert Frank , Nørgaard Mette , Oestergaard Louise Bruun , Benfield Thomas , Petersen Andreas , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Glintborg Bente , Hetland Merete Lund
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To assess how biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs), glucocorticoids and disease activity affect risk ofStaphylococcus aureusbacteraemia (SAB) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

In a nationwide cohort of patients with RA from the DANBIO registry, we conducted a nested case–control study including first-time microbiologically verified SAB cases from 2010 to 2018 and incidence density matched controls (1:4 by sex, age). We interlinked Danish registries and identified antirheumatic treatments, RA-specific clinical characteristics, comorbidities and socioeconomic status. The relative risk of SAB was assessed by adjusted ORs with 95% CIs and number needed to harm (NNH) reflected the absolute risk.

Results

Among 30 479 patients, we identified 180 SAB cases (incidence rate: 106.7/100 000 person-years) and matched 720 controls (57% women, median age 73 years, IQR: 65–80). Risk of SAB was increased in current (OR 1.8 (95% CI 1.1 to 3.2)) and former bDMARD users (OR 2.5 (95% CI 0.9 to 7.0)), and in current users of oral glucocorticoids ≤7.5 prednisolone-equivalent mg/day (OR 2.2 (95% CI 1.3 to 4.0) and >7.5 mg/day (OR 9.5 (95% CI 3.9 to 22.7)) (non-use as reference). ORs for moderate/high disease activity compared with remission were 1.6 (95% CI 0.8 to 3.3)/1.5 (95% CI 0.6 to 4.3). Risk was increased in patients with longstanding RA (>10 years vs ≤3 years, OR=2.4 (95% CI 1.1 to 5.3)). The NNH was 1172(95% CI 426 to 9374) for current use of bDMARDs and 110(95% CI 43 to 323) for glucocorticoids >7.5 mg/day.

Conclusion

We identified a dose-dependent increased risk of SAB in patients with RA currently using oral glucocorticoids. Daily use of >7.5 mg appeared to be a clinically relevant risk factor, whereas the absolute risk was low for bDMARDs. No clear impact of disease activity was found.
Electromagnetic interaction of low transverse momentum charged leptons with heavy nuclei in ultra-peripheral ultra-relativistic heavy-ion collisions
Authors: Mazurek Katarzyna , Kłusek-Gawenda Mariola , Szczurek Antoni
Published: December 2022

The photon–photon interaction in ultra-relativistic heavy-ion collision is a source of the charged lepton pairs. The photon-photon fusion leads to the lepton creation in broad configuration space around the “collision” point. Those created close to heavy nuclei may undergo strong electromagnetic interaction with them. The impact parameter space distributions of electrons/positrons and charged muons are calculated within the b-space EPA model of such collisions. The evolution of $$e^+/e^-$$

e
+

/

e
-

and $$\mu ^+/\mu ^-$$

μ
+

/

μ
-

distributions due to the electromagnetic interaction of leptons with nuclei is studied, and the distortion of rapidity and transverse momentum distributions are shown. A part of the analysis is independent of the production model. We show the first exploratory results for the reaction Pb + Pb at $$\sqrt{s_{NN}} = $$

s

NN

=

17.3 GeV (SPS) and 200 GeV (RHIC) energies. We provide results for selected creation points and when integrating over their positions as dictated by the b-space EPA model. We observe sizeable effects for $$e^+ / e^-$$

e
+

/

e
-

and much smaller effects for $$\mu ^+ / \mu ^-$$

μ
+

/

μ
-

. We predict a possible sizeable accumulation of leptons with rapidities close to the beam rapidity. The EM effects lead to asymmetry in the production of $$e^+$$

e
+

and $$e^-$$

e
-

or $$\mu ^+$$

μ
+

and $$\mu ^-$$

μ
-

.
Group-valued invariant of knots in the full torus
Authors: Manturov Vassily Olegovich , Nikonov Igor Mikhailovich
Published: December 2022

Knot concordance plays a crucial role in the low-dimensional topology. We propose a very elementary techniques which allows one to construct a lot of sliceness obstructions for knots in the full torus. Our approach deals with group theoretical techniques; it is completely combinatorial, and the groups are very easy to deal with.
Understanding South Korean Middle Power Diplomacy Discourses Through the Concept ofSadae(Serving the Great)
Authors: CHO YOUNG CHUL , CALLAHAN WILLIAM A.
Published: December 2022

This study aims to examine South Korean middle power diplomacy discourses using premodern Korea’s diplomatic thinking-cum-practice of sadae (serving the great) as a heuristic device. It is argued that current discourses of South Korea as a middle power resonate with sadae because they strive to secure the existing liberal international order led by the West and the United States. It also argues that it is both necessary and healthy for South Korean middle power diplomacy studies to denaturalize its self-evident faith in the existing liberal international order—a not universal but particular order among several possible others in history—with South Korea celebrating and appropriating liberal values. This would prepare South Korean middle power diplomacy research to tackle uncertainty, difference, and pluralism in global politics while producing more responsible and responsive scholarship in international relations.
Optimization design of autofocusing metasurface for ultrasound wave application
Authors: Li Zhaoxi , Yang Shenghui , Zhou Mengqing , Hou Chenxue , Chen Dongdong , Fei Chunlong , Li Di , Quan Yi , Yang Yintang
Published: December 2022

In this paper, two optimized autofocusing metasurfaces (AFMs) with different desired focal distances are designed by using particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. Based on the finite element simulation software COMSOL Multiphysics, the performance of ultrasound transducer (UT) with AFM at different design parameters in Airy distributions [Formula: see text] and the bottom thickness (d) of AFM are simulated and analyzed. Based on the simulation data, the artificial neural network model is trained to describe the complex relationship between the design parameters of AFM and the performance parameters of UT. Then, the multiobjective optimization function for AFM is determined according to the desired performance parameters of UT, including focal position, lateral resolution, longitudinal resolution and absolute sound pressure. In order to obtain AFMs with the desired performance, PSO algorithm is adopted to optimize the design parameters of AFM according to the multiobjective optimization function, and two AFMs are optimized and fabricated. The experimental results well agree with the simulation and optimization results, and the optimized AFMs can achieve the desired performance. The fabricated AFM can be easily integrated with UT, which has great potential applications in wave field modulation underwater, acoustic tweezers, biomedical imaging, industrial nondestructive testing and neural regulation.
Microstructure regulation and failure mechanism study of BaTiO3-based dielectrics for MLCC application
Authors: Gu Yan , Zhang Faqiang , Wu Wanghua , Liu Zhifu
Published: December 2022

Most widely used dielectrics for MLCC are based on BaTiO3composition which inevitably shows performance degradation during the application due to the migration of oxygen vacancies ([Formula: see text]). Here, the BaTiO3, ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text])TiO3, Ba([Formula: see text][Formula: see text])O3, ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text])([Formula: see text][Formula: see text])O3, ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text])([Formula: see text][Formula: see text])O3ceramics (denoted as BT, BCT, BTM, BCTM and BCDTM, respectively) were prepared by a solid-state reaction method. The core-shell structured grains ([Formula: see text]200 nm) featured with 10-20 nm wide shell were observed and contributed to the relatively flat dielectric constant-temperature spectra of BTM, BCTM and BCDTM ceramics. The TSDC study found that the single/ mix doping of Ca[Formula: see text], especially the Mg[Formula: see text], Mg[Formula: see text]/Ca[Formula: see text] and Mg[Formula: see text]/Ca[Formula: see text]/Dy[Formula: see text] could limit the emergence of [Formula: see text] during the sintering and suppress its long-range migration under the electric-field. Because of this, the highly accelerated lifetimes of the ceramics were increased and the value of BCDTM is 377 times higher than that of BT ceramics. The [Formula: see text] junction model was built to explain the correlation mechanism between the long-range migration of [Formula: see text] and the significantly increased leakage current of BT-based dielectrics in the late stage of HALT.
Accounting Information Completeness and Firm Default Risk
Authors: Hu Yaqin , Zhao Xiaofei
Published: December 2022

Corporate debt market is crucial to raise capital for businesses and to maintain steady economic growth. Disclosure with more complete accounting information provides more informative signals for investors to assess a firm’s risk of defaulting on its debt, which is the fundamental mechanism of the seminal theory by Duffie and Lando [2001, Term Structures of Credit Spreads with Incomplete Accounting Information, Econometrica 69(3), 633–664]. Using a disclosure quality measure that captures the completeness of accounting information in the income statement and balance sheet, we show that a firm’s default risk is significantly and negatively associated with the completeness of its accounting information. We further show that the negative relation is mainly driven by the information completeness of the balance sheet, relative to that of the income statement. In addition, the information completeness of the long-term liabilities on the balance sheet better explains a firm’s default risk, compared to the current liabilities. Overall, our findings provide new evidence on the importance of accounting information completeness for both firms and investors in the debt market.
Comparative Effect of Multi-Dose Contrast Median on Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography Workflow of Nurses and Hospital Efficiency: A Multi-CenterReal-World Prospective Observational Study in China
Authors: Zhang Chen , Fan Zhilei , Ma Feng , Li Da , Chen Yingyao , Wei Yan
Published: December 2022

Objective. This study aims to evaluate and compare computed tomography (CT)-contrast operational workflow and hospital imaging efficiency when using a multi-dose bulk IV contrast delivery system and when using a single-dose packaging contrast. Materials and Methods. A multi-center prospective observational study was conducted in six regions in China. The operating time and workflow of radiology nursing staff were evaluated and observed using an investigational tool and recorded by the investigators using a stopwatch. Nursing staff’s knowledge and the imaging capabilities of hospitals were collected using a questionnaire. Rate, t-test, χ2 test, and partial correlation analysis were used to describe the knowledge of nursing staff. The operation time and frequency of the two contrast agent packages were further compared using the Stata 15.0 software. Results. A total of 42 radiology nurses and 1,167 CT contrast-operating procedures in six provinces in China were evaluated. The total operating times for the 100 ml contrast agent versus the 200 ml contrast agent were 80.67 s and 63.81 s, respectively (

P
<
0.01

). According to the average annual hospital CT scans (49,807 scans) and the power injector (PI) market share, approximately 233 h yearly could be saved in a hospital. Regarding CT contrast knowledge, approximately 57.14% nurses expressed their willingness to use multi-dose packaging contrast agents. Conclusion. Through difference and correlation analysis on real-world data, this study suggests that, considering safety, the use of a multi-dose bulk IV contrast agent is more time-saving and efficient for Chinese nurses and medical institutions compared with that of a single-dose package.
Antiresistin Neutralizing Antibody Alleviates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiac Injury in Mice
Authors: Hu Yewen , Wang Jian , Du Weiping , Wu Nan , Wang Shuangshuang , Zhang Chaoxia , Chen Xiaomin , Shen Caijie
Published: December 2022

Background. Resistin is closely related to cardiovascular diseases, and this study is aimed at examining the role of resistin in doxorubicin- (DOX-) induced cardiac injury. Methods. First, 48 mice were divided into 2 groups and treated with saline or DOX, and the expression of resistin at different time points was examined (

N
=
24

). A total of 40 mice were pretreated with the antiresistin neutralizing antibody (nAb) or isotype IgG for 1 hour and further administered DOX or saline for 5 days. The mice were divided into 4 groups: saline-IgG, saline-nAb, DOX-IgG, and DOX-nAb (

N
=
10

). Cardiac injury, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, inflammatory factors, and the biomarkers of M1 and M2 macrophages in each group were analyzed. Result. DOX administration increased the expression of resistin. DOX treatment exacerbated the loss of body and heart weight and cardiac vacuolation in mice. The antiresistin nAb reversed these conditions, downregulated the expression of myocardial injury markers, and decreased apoptosis. In addition, the antiresistin nAb decreased p65 pathway activation, decreased M1 macrophage differentiation and the expression of related inflammatory factors, and increased M2 macrophage differentiation and the expression of related inflammatory factors. Conclusion. The antiresistin nAb protected against DOX-induced cardiac injury by reducing cardiac inflammation and may be a promising target to relieve DOX-related cardiac injury.
Homogenized Point Mutual Information and Deep Quantum Reinforced Wind Power Prediction
Authors: Jency W. G. , Judith J. E.
Published: December 2022

Accurate wind power prediction is very predominant for genuine and effective power systems with high wind power perception. Wind power prediction, as well as wind power generation resources, receives the electrical energy by converting wind into rotational energy of the blades and converting rotational energy into electrical energy by the generator. Wind energy increases with the cube of wind speed. There are numerous common and deep learning methods that have evolved to attain wind power prediction. Deep learning-based methods are referred to as straightforward, and robust, and have been utilized in the recent few years for wind power prediction with a certain level of success. However, due to the lack of an appropriate feature selection process and to minimize the effect of losses used for wind power prediction, a large amount of computation is necessitated when processing multi-input wind power data, therefore causing a negative influence on scalability and hence affecting wind power prediction time. To address these issues, in this work, a method called, Homogenized Point Mutual Information and Deep Quantum Reinforced (HPMI-QDR) wind power prediction are proposed. The HPMI-DQR method is split into two sections. In the first section, informative and relevant features required for robust wind power prediction using input wind turbine data are designed using Homogenized Point Mutual (HPM) Feature Selection model. With the relevant features selected, in the second section, the actual wind power prediction is made using the Deep Quantum Reinforced Learning model. To validate the proposed method, Wind Turbine SCADA Dataset is used for constructing and testing. Simulation of proposed method attains enhancement within wind power prediction accuracy as 13%, minimal wind power prediction time as 25%, as well as better wind energy generation as 20% and true positive rate as 25%, compared using conventional techniques. Moreover, a substantial improvement was also found in wind power prediction time with minimum error.