bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in opioid agonist treatment initiation among people prescribed opioids for pain following voluntary and mandatory prescription drug monitoring program implementation: A time series analysis
Authors: Picco Louisa , Xia Ting , Bell J. Simon , Pearce Christopher , Buchbinder Rachelle , Lubman Dan I. , Nielsen Suzanne
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMP) are increasingly used to identify people prescribed high‐dose opioids. However, little is known about whether PDMPs impact opioid agonist treatment (OAT) uptake, the gold standard for opioid use disorder. This study examined the impact of PDMP implementation on OAT initiation among people prescribed opioids, in Victoria, Australia.

Methods

De‐identified electronic records from all 464 Victorian general practices included in the POLAR database were used. OAT initiation was defined as a new OAT prescription between 1 April 2017 and 31 December 2020, with no OAT prescriptions in the year prior. Interrupted time series analyses were used to compare outcomes before (April 2017 to March 2019) and after (April 2019 to December 2020) PDMP implementation. Binary logistic regression was used to examine differences in patients' characteristics associated with OAT initiation prior to and after PDMP implementation.

Results

In total, 1610 people initiated OAT, 946 before and 664 after PDMP implementation. No significant immediate (step) or longer‐term (slope) changes in the rates of OAT initiation were identified following PDMP implementation, after adjusting for seasonality. A high opioid dose (>100 mg oral morphine equivalent) in the 6‐months prior to OAT initiation was the only significant characteristic associated with reduced odds of OAT initiation post‐PDMP implementation (odds ratio 0.29; 0.23–0.37).

Discussion and Conclusions

PDMP implementation did not have a significant impact on OAT initiation among people prescribed opioids. Findings suggest additional clinical initiatives that support OAT initiation are required to ensure PDMPs meet their intended target of reducing opioid‐related harms.
Benign recurrent lymphocytic meningitis (Mollaret's meningitis) in Denmark: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Petersen Pelle Trier , Bodilsen Jacob , Jepsen Micha Phill Grønholm , Hansen Birgitte Rønde , Storgaard Merete , Larsen Lykke , Helweg‐Larsen Jannik , Wiese Lothar , Lüttichau Hans Rudolf , Andersen Christian Østergaard , Mogensen Trine Hyrup , Nielsen Henrik , Brandt Christian Thomas ,   for the Danish Study Group of Infections of the Brain (DASGIB)
Published: October 2023

Background and purpose

Data on clinical features and outcomes of benign recurrent lymphocytic meningitis (BRLM) are limited.

Methods

This was a nationwide population‐based cohort study of all adults hospitalized for BRLM associated with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV‐2) at the departments of infectious diseases in Denmark from 2015 to 2020. Patients with single‐episode HSV‐2 meningitis were included for comparison.

Results

Forty‐seven patients with BRLM (mean annual incidence 1.2/1,000,000 adults) and 118 with single‐episode HSV‐2 meningitis were included. The progression risk from HSV‐2 meningitis to BRLM was 22% (95% confidence interval [CI] 15%–30%). The proportion of patients with the triad of headache, neck stiffness and photophobia/hyperacusis was similar between BRLM and single‐episode HSV‐2 meningitis (16/43 [37%] vs. 46/103 [45%]; p = 0.41), whilst the median cerebrospinal fluid leukocyte count was lower in BRLM (221 cells vs. 398 cells; p = 0.02). Unfavourable functional outcomes (Glasgow Outcome Scale score of 1–4) were less frequent in BRLM at all post‐discharge follow‐up visits. During the study period, 10 (21%) patients with BRLM were hospitalized for an additional recurrence (annual rate 6%, 95% CI 3%–12%). The hazard ratio for an additional recurrence was 3.93 (95% CI 1.02–15.3) for patients with three or more previous episodes of meningitis.

Conclusions

Clinical features of BRLM were similar to those of single‐episode HSV‐2 meningitis, whilst post‐discharge outcomes were more favourable. Patients with three or more previous episodes of meningitis had higher risk of an additional recurrence.
Hidden in the ocean: The importance of detecting hybridisation in pelagic and deep‐water fishes
Authors: Pecoraro Carlo , Papetti Chiara , Fruciano Carmelo
Published: October 2023

The widespread occurrence of hybridisation in fishes suggests the need to revisit its importance for both a basic understanding of biological principles and practical applications for management and conservation. Despite evidence of its pervasiveness, the phenomenon of hybridisation in fish is not uniformly studied across species and environments. We note how natural hybridisation in pelagic and deep‐sea fish has been rarely reported. For this reason, we carry out an analysis using both standard and phylogenetic comparative methods. Our results suggest a lack of evidence for the idea that pelagic and deep‐sea fish are inherently less prone to hybridise. Likely, hybridisation and introgression are systematically underestimated in these groups. In light of this, we discuss why underestimation of hybridisation is problematic, and what may be done to ameliorate the situation. We propose scalable and cost‐effective prioritisation, sampling and analysis strategies, to ease existing biases in assessing the impact of hybridisation among pelagic and deep‐sea species and to ultimately improve the management and conservation – as well as basic biological knowledge – of these important species.
Full substitution of chemical fertilizer by organic manure decreases soil N2O emissions driven by ammonia oxidizers and gross nitrogen transformations
Authors: Hei Zewen , Peng Yiting , Hao Shenglei , Li Yiming , Yang Xue , Zhu Tongbin , Müller Christoph , Zhang Hongyan , Hu Hangwei , Chen Yongliang
Published: October 2023

Replacing synthetic fertilizer by organic manure has been shown to reduce emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O), but the specific roles of ammonia oxidizing microorganisms and gross nitrogen (N) transformation in regulating N2O remain unclear. Here, we examined the effect of completely replacing chemical fertilizer with organic manure on N2O emissions, ammonia oxidizers, gross N transformation rates using a 13‐year field manipulation experiment. Our results showed that organic manure reduced cumulative N2O emissions by 16.3%–210.3% compared to chemical fertilizer. The abundance of ammonia oxidizing bacteria (AOB) was significantly lower in organic manure compared with chemical fertilizer during three growth stages of maize. Organic manure also significantly decreased AOB alpha diversity and changed their community structure. However, organic manure substitution increased the abundance of ammonia oxidizing archaea and the alpha diversity of comammox Nitrospira compared to chemical fertilizer. Interestingly, organic manure decreased organic N mineralization by 23.2%–32.9%, and autotrophic nitrification rate by 10.5%–45.4%, when compared with chemical fertilizer. This study also found a positive correlation between AOB abundance, organic N mineralization and gross autotrophic nitrification rate with N2O emission, and their contribution to N2O emission was supported by random forest analysis. Our study highlights the key roles of ammonia oxidizers and N transformation rates in predicting cropland N2O.
Challenges of accounting nitrous oxide emissions from agricultural crop residues
Authors: Olesen Jørgen E. , Rees Robert M. , Recous Sylvie , Bleken Marina A. , Abalos Diego , Ahuja Ishita , Butterbach‐Bahl Klaus , Carozzi Marco , De Notaris Chiara , Ernfors Maria , Haas Edwin , Hansen Sissel , Janz Baldur , Lashermes Gwenaëlle , Massad Raia S. , Petersen Søren O. , Rittl Tatiana F. , Scheer Clemens , Smith Kate E. , Thiébeau Pascal , Taghizadeh‐Toosi Arezoo , Thorman Rachel E. , Topp Cairistiona F. E.
Published: October 2023

Crop residues are important inputs of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) to soils and thus directly and indirectly affect nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. As the current inventory methodology considers N inputs by crop residues as the sole determining factor for N2O emissions, it fails to consider other underlying factors and processes. There is compelling evidence that emissions vary greatly between residues with different biochemical and physical characteristics, with the concentrations of mineralizable N and decomposable C in the residue biomass both enhancing the soil N2O production potential. High concentrations of these components are associated with immature residues (e.g., cover crops, grass, legumes, and vegetables) as opposed to mature residues (e.g., straw). A more accurate estimation of the short‐term (months) effects of the crop residues on N2O could involve distinguishing mature and immature crop residues with distinctly different emission factors. The medium‐term (years) and long‐term (decades) effects relate to the effects of residue management on soil N fertility and soil physical and chemical properties, considering that these are affected by local climatic and soil conditions as well as land use and management. More targeted mitigation efforts for N2O emissions, after addition of crop residues to the soil, are urgently needed and require an improved methodology for emission accounting. This work needs to be underpinned by research to (1) develop and validate N2O emission factors for mature and immature crop residues, (2) assess emissions from belowground residues of terminated crops, (3) improve activity data on management of different residue types, in particular immature residues, and (4) evaluate long‐term effects of residue addition on N2O emissions.
When should sunscreen be applied: The balance between health benefit and adverse consequences to humans and the environment
Authors: Diffey Brian
Published: October 2023

Objective

To propose a strategy for using sunscreens that optimizes the balance between skin health and adverse effects to humans and the environment.

Methods

A model was developed to explore the relationship between sunscreen usage and personal sun exposure throughout the year in populations resident at different latitudes.

Results

There is little biological justification in terms of skin health for applying sunscreen over the 4–6 winter months at latitudes of 45° N and higher, whereas year‐round sunscreen is advised at latitudes of 30° N and lower. Avoiding sunscreen application at times when it is biologically unnecessary results in an annual reduction in sunscreen use of 25%. Furthermore, using products containing UV filters over the winter months at more northerly latitudes could lead to a higher number of people with vitamin D deficiency. The single largest use of sunscreen is on a sun‐seeking holiday and encouragement to make more use of clothing and shade would appreciably reduce the sunscreen burden to the environment.

Conclusion

We need to use sunscreens wisely so that we gain the health benefit from their use while at the same time limiting possible harm to ourselves and the environment.
Novel nutrient dense quinoa fractions: physical, functional, thermal and rheological characterisation for potential industry application
Authors: Ray Amrita , Sakhare Suresh D. , Srivastava Alok Kumar
Published: October 2023

Quinoa is known for its unique nutritional characteristics and contains good quality protein and fat along with appreciable amount of starch, dietary fibre and micronutrients. The fractionation facilitated the separation of the botanical components of the grain which were found to be rich in specific nutrients. The protein‐ and fat‐rich fraction (PFRF) projected 2.15 times protein and 2.74 times fat, while fibre‐rich fraction (FRF) showed 2.35 times fibre content as compared to quinoa whole grain. Starch‐rich fraction (SRF) with 82.41% starch was lower in protein content. FRF showed higher water holding capacity compared with other quinoa samples where bulk density was reported highest in PFRF fraction (670 kg per m3). These fractions showed variation in their gelatinisation enthalpy for the thermal properties. Foaming and emulsion properties were significantly impacted by the composition of the fractions and varied at different pH. The apparent viscosity was recorded highest for FRF, where SRF was lowest. At varied temperatures tested, the exhibited behaviour of all samples was found to be non‐Newtonian in nature. Present study concludes that quinoa physical fractionation produced novel nutrient dense fractions with unique techno‐functional features and has potential to be explored for food product development as independent functional ingredient.
Predictive validity and reliability of two pressure injury risk assessment scales at a neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Shi Zeyao , Li Xiaowen
Published: October 2023

To compare the predictive ability and reliability of two pressure injury (PI) assessment tools, the Neonatal/Infant(N/I) Braden Q and Braden QD scale, in neonates. A prospective and cross‐sectional study. This study was conducted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a tertiary‐level university hospital in China between April and June 2023. A total of 410 patients were included in this study. Risk assessment was performed with the N/I Braden Q scale, followed immediately with the Braden QD scale once daily. Risk assessment was terminated when the PI developed or the patient was discharged from the NICU or died. Each patient's final risk assessment was considered in the data analysis. The area under the curve (AUC) of the two scales was 0.879 and 0.857, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and Cronbach's α coefficient of the N/I Braden Q Scale scores were 0.844, 0.833, 0.30, 0.984 and 0.806, respectively. The Braden QD scale scores were 0.938, 0.733, 0.229, 0.993 and 0.727, respectively. Both scales are valid and reliable in predicting the risk of PI in the NICU. The N/I Braden Q Scale was better to distinguish patients at PI risk and not at PI risk than the Braden QD scale. The literature is limited on this topic. This study provides insight into the comparison of different pressure injury risk assessment scales. The findings of this study may guide nurses to choose a suitable tool to assess the risk of pressure injury in neonates.
Coat protein genealogy and complete genome characterization of field isolates of rice yellow mottle virus from Zambia
Authors: Mulenga Rabson M. , Komatsubara Shu , Sichilima Suwilanji , Chikoti Patrick Chiza , Kaimoyo Evans , Malumbe Oscar , Alabi Olufemi J.
Published: October 2023

Rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV) is widespread in mainland Africa and adjoining islands but to date its occurrence in Zambia is unknown. In March 2022, field surveys were conducted in Luapula, Northern, Western and Eastern provinces of Zambia to determine the occurrence of RYMV and its genetic relationship with global isolates of the virus. Thirty‐three paddy rice fields were visited and 108 leaf tissue samples were collected for analysis. The incidence of yellow mottle symptoms ranged from 25% to 43% in 10 (30.3%) of 33 fields and RYMV was detected in 35 (32.4%) of 108 samples by RT‐PCR with virus‐specific primers. A subset of 27 RYMV‐positive samples was constituted from which full‐length (720 bp) coat protein (CP) regions were amplified followed by bidirectional Sanger sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis of the CP cistron revealed distinct clustering of the isolates from Zambia in a monophyletic clade as subtype of the RYMV strain S4. Three isolates were randomly selected and used to obtain complete RYMV genomes of 4448–4449 nucleotides (nt). Comparative analysis of both the CP and the complete RYMV genomes from Zambia with their corresponding sequences in GenBank revealed that they shared 92%–93.2% nt identities with strain S4 isolates. These results confirm for the first time occurrence of RYMV strain S4 in Zambia and further reinforce the need for phytosanitary vigilance to safeguard rice production in Zambia.
Electroencephalographic markers from routine sleep discriminate individuals who are vulnerable or resilient to sleep loss
Authors: Subramaniyan Manivannan , Wang Chao , Laxminarayan Srinivas , Vital‐Lopez Francisco G. , Hughes John D. , Doty Tracy J. , Reifman Jaques
Published: October 2023

Sleep loss impairs cognition; however, individuals differ in their response to sleep loss. Current methods to identify an individual's vulnerability to sleep loss involve time‐consuming sleep‐loss challenges and neurobehavioural tests. Here, we sought to identify electroencephalographic markers of sleep‐loss vulnerability obtained from routine night sleep. We retrospectively analysed four studies in which 50 healthy young adults (21 women) completed a laboratory baseline‐sleep phase followed by a sleep‐loss challenge. After classifying subjects as resilient or vulnerable to sleep loss, we extracted three electroencephalographic features from four channels during the baseline nights, evaluated the discriminatory power of these features using the first two studies (discovery), and assessed reproducibility of the results using the remaining two studies (reproducibility). In the discovery analysis, we found that, compared to resilient subjects, vulnerable subjects exhibited: (1) higher slow‐wave activity power in channel O1 (p < 0.0042, corrected for multiple comparisons) and in channels O2 and C3 (p < 0.05, uncorrected); (2) higher slow‐wave activity rise rate in channels O1 and O2 (p < 0.05, uncorrected); and (3) lower sleep spindle frequency in channels C3 and C4 (p < 0.05, uncorrected). Our reproducibility analysis confirmed the discovery results on slow‐wave activity power and slow‐wave activity rise rate, and for these two electroencephalographic features we observed consistent group‐difference trends across all four channels in both analyses. The higher slow‐wave activity power and slow‐wave activity rise rate in vulnerable individuals suggest that they have a persistently higher sleep pressure under normal rested conditions.
Right dorsal colitis in horses: A multicenter retrospective study of 35 cases
Authors: Flood Jordan , Byrne David , Bauquier Jennifer , Agne Gustavo Ferlini , Wise Jessica C. , Medina‐Torres Carlos E. , Wood Kelly , Sullivan Olivia , Stewart Allison J.
Published: October 2023

Background

Right dorsal colitis (RDC) is a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) induced, protein losing enteropathy in horses associated with a high case fatality rate.

Objectives

To describe signalment, NSAID usage, clinical presentations, clinical pathology, ultrasonographic findings, treatments, outcomes, and factors associated with survival in horses diagnosed with RDC.

Animals

Thirty‐five horses from 7 Australian equine hospitals diagnosed with RDC.

Methods

Retrospective case series. Clinical records of cases were accepted if definitively or presumptively diagnosed by an internist with RDC and had ≥3 of: hypoproteinemia or hypoalbuminemia; diarrhea with negative test results for infectious diseases; colic for which other diseases were excluded or right dorsal colon thickening on ultrasound. Descriptive data analysis was performed for categorical and continuous variables. Univariate binominal logistic regressions were used to assess factors associated with survival.

Results

An overdose of NSAIDs occurred in 84% (21/25) cases where dose was known. Common clinical presentations included diarrhea (69%; 22/32), colic (61%; 20/33), and tachycardia (53%, 17/32). Common clinicopathological findings included hypoalbuminemia (83%; 26/31), hypocalcaemia (79%, 23/29), and hyperlactatemia (77%, 14/18). The right dorsal colon wall appeared subjectively thickened in 77% (24/31) cases using ultrasonography. Case fatality rate was 43% (15/35). Odds of survival significantly decreased with increasing heart rate (odds 0.84, 95% CI = 0.71‐0.92, P = .01), packed cell volume (odds 0.91, 95% CI 0.82‐0.98, P = .05) and abnormal appearance of mucous membranes (odds 0.05, 95% CI 0.005‐0.28, P = .001) on hospital presentation.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

An overdose of NSAIDs is common in horses diagnosed with RDC. Serum albumin concentrations should be monitored in horses receiving a prolonged course of NSAIDs. Overall prognosis for RDC remains fair.
Distinct patterns of activity within columns of the periaqueductal gray are associated with functionally distinct birdsongs
Authors: Asogwa Chinweike N. , Zhao Changjiu , Polzin Brandon J. , Maksimoski Alyse N. , Heimovics Sarah A. , Riters Lauren V.
Published: October 2023

Male songbirds produce female‐directed songs in spring that convey a state of sexual motivation. Many songbirds also sing in fall flocks in affiliative/gregarious contexts in which song is linked to an intrinsic positive affective state. The periaqueductal gray (PAG) in mammals, which is organized into functional columns, integrates information from multiple brain regions and relays this information to vocal motor areas so that an animal emits a vocal signal reflective of its affective state. Here, we test the hypothesis that distinct columns in the songbird PAG play roles in the distinct affective states communicated by sexually motivated and gregarious song. We quantified the numbers of immediate early gene ZENK‐positive cells in 16 PAG subregions in male European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) after singing gregarious or sexually motivated song. Results suggest that distinct PAG columns in songbirds context‐specifically regulate song, agonistic, and courtship behaviors. A second exploratory, functional tract‐tracing study also demonstrated that inputs to the PAG from specific subregions of the medial preoptic nucleus may contribute to gregarious song and behaviors indicative of social dominance. Together, findings suggest that conserved PAG columns and inputs from the preoptic nucleus may play a role in context‐specific vocal and other social behaviors.
Smooth and Abrupt Dynamics in Financial Volatility: The MS‐MEM‐MIDAS*
Authors: Scaffidi Domianello Luca , Gallo Giampiero M. , Otranto Edoardo
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we maintain that the evolution of the realized volatility is characterized by a combination of high‐frequency dynamics and smoother, yet persistent, dynamics evolving at a lower frequency. We suggest a new Multiplicative Error Model which combines the mixed frequency features of a MIDAS at the monthly level with Markovian dynamics at the daily level. When estimated in‐sample on the realized kernel volatility of the S&P500 index, this model dominates other simpler specifications, especially when monthly aggregated realized volatility is used. The same pattern is confirmed in the out‐of‐sample forecasting performance which suggests that adding an abrupt change in the average level of volatility better helps in tracking quick bursts of volatility and a relatively rapid absorption of the shocks.
An exploration of the relationship between voices, dissociation, and post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms
Authors: Piesse Emily , Paulik Georgie , Mathersul Danielle , Valentine Lee , Kamitsis Ilias , Bendall Sarah
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Extensive research has shown voice hearing to be associated with symptoms of Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and dissociation. However, most studies have adopted a quantitative design, using cross‐sectional data sampling methods, precluding temporal relationships between variables from being defined.

Design

Using a qualitative design, this study sought to identify potential symptom relationships by addressing the research question: what is the nature of the temporal relationship between voices, dissociation and PTSD symptoms?

Methods

Seven voice hearers (aged 27 to 68 years) participated in a semi‐structured interview exploring voice hearing, PTSD symptoms, and dissociation. The interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Results

One superordinate theme was identified in the data. Voices were observed to occur in dynamic interrelationship with PTSD symptoms and dissociation, and were frequently experienced before and after PTSD symptoms and dissociative episodes.

Conclusions

Implications for theoretical understandings of voice hearing and future research are discussed.
Relative contributions of indirect taxes and inflation on inequality: What does the Turkish data reveal?
Authors: Gemicioğlu Selçuk , Kızılırmak Burça , Akkoç Uğur
Published: October 2023

One way inflation affects consumption inequality is through its varying impact on the purchasing power of different households. Indirect taxes, which affect commodity price levels, are another effective factor influencing consumption inequality. Turkey is a highly unequal country with a long history of high inflation. Moreover, indirect taxes have been used frequently as a policy tool in the last decades. This study develops a novel approach to examining the relative contributions of household inflation rates and indirect tax changes to real consumption inequality and applies it to the case of Turkey. The analysis is carried out using both household‐level data and artificial panel data created to apply the Shapley and Owen decomposition methods. The findings roughly can be summarized in two points. First, while nominal consumption during the 2003–2019 period became more equal, real consumption inequality increased as a result of price changes during that time. Variations in household inflation rates are the primary source of increased inequality. Second, changes in indirect taxes account for 31% to 68% of the unequalizing effect of price changes, depending on the method used. Results imply that monetary and indirect tax policy mix have been in favor of the rich in this period.
Recognition of the novel HLA‐A*24:602 allele detected in a potential hematopoietic stem cell donor
Authors: Ananeva Anastasiia , Elagina Elmira , Andryushkina Anna V. , Shagimardanova Elena I.
Published: October 2023

The novel HLA‐A*24:602 allele differs by one nucleotide change from HLA‐A*24:02:01:01.
Exploring NT‐proBNP, syndecan‐1, and cytokines as biomarkers for transfusion‐associated circulatory overload in a critically ill patient population receiving a single‐unit red blood cell transfusion
Authors: Bulle Esther B. , Blanken Britt , Klanderman Robert B. , van Manen Lisa , Juffermans Nicole P. , Vlaar Alexander P. J.
Published: October 2023

Background

Transfusion‐associated circulatory overload (TACO) is an often underdiagnosed pulmonary transfusion complication. A biomarker could aid with the diagnosis. To date, B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N‐terminal prohormone B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) seem the most promising biomarkers in the general hospital population. The aim was to evaluate NT‐proBNP as a biomarker for TACO in a critically ill patient population and explore syndecan‐1 and cytokines as other potential biomarkers.

Study Design and Methods

A retrospective study was performed using samples and clinical data collected during a prospective observational study. Adult patients admitted to the intensive care and transfused with a single red blood cell unit were included. TACO cases were retrospectively identified using a case definition based on the current TACO definition. The primary biomarker was NT‐proBNP, also we measured syndecan‐1 IL‐6, IL‐8, and IL‐10. All markers were measured directly before transfusion, 1 and 24 h after transfusion.

Results

Our cohort included 64 patients, 12 of which were identified as TACO patients. TACO patients had a lower PaO2/FiO2 ratio and were more often ventilated following transfusion compared to non‐TACO patients. There was no significant difference in NT‐proBNP between pre‐ and post‐transfusion levels nor between TACO and non‐TACO patients. Syndecan‐1 was significantly elevated in TACO patients both pre‐ and post‐transfusion compared to non‐TACO patients.

Discussion

NT‐proBNP was not associated with TACO in this critically ill patient population. Interestingly, levels of syndecan‐1 were increased in TACO patients at baseline. More research is needed to clarify this association and its possibilities as a biomarker to predict patients at risk for TACO.
A novel reagent for the screening of haptoglobin‐deficient blood donors
Authors: Watanabe‐Okochi Naoko , Sato Ayaka , Okuyama Akira , Tomiyoshi Go , Suzuki Yumi , Watanabe Yukiko , Kitsukawa Kaori , Anazawa Masako , Shimoyamada Takashige , Takahashi Daisuke , Onodera Takayuki , Uchikawa Makoto , Tsuno Nelson‐Hirokazu , Muroi Kazuo
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives

In Japan, the prevalence of haptoglobin deficiency is approximately 1 in 4000. Haptoglobin‐deficient individuals may produce anti‐haptoglobin from allo‐immunization, leading to serious transfusion reactions. Therefore, implementation of a consistent supply of haptoglobin‐deficient fresh frozen plasma is crucial. We developed a novel reagent to facilitate large‐scale identification of haptoglobin‐deficient individuals as potential donors of plasma products.

Materials and Methods

We established mouse monoclonal anti‐haptoglobin‐producing cell lines (three clones) using the hybridoma method by immunizing mice with the haptoglobin protein. Purified antibodies were conjugated with carboxylate‐modified polystyrene latex beads and used for haptoglobin measurements by the latex agglutination method using an automatic analyser (LABOSPECT008). Samples with low protein concentrations were re‐examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to confirm the results. Additionally, the haptoglobin gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction to confirm the haptoglobin deletion allele (Hpdel).

Results

From February to October 2022, 7476 blood donor samples were screened. Two haptoglobin‐deficient and 21 low‐haptoglobin‐expressing individuals were identified. Two haptoglobin‐deficient donors were found homozygous for Hpdel, and 19 (90%) of the 21 low‐haptoglobin‐expressing individuals were heterozygous for Hpdel, which includes the first reported case of heterozygous Hpdel/HpJohnson.

Conclusion

We developed a new reagent for the detection of haptoglobin deficiency, which is automatable and inexpensive and appears useful for large‐scale screening of blood donors.
Strategies for Computational Fluid Dynamics Validation Experiments
Authors: Gargiulo Aldo , Duetsch-Patel Julie E. , Borgoltz Aurelien , Devenport William J. , Roy Christopher J. , Lowe K. Todd
Published: October 2023

The Benchmark Validation Experiment for Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS)/large eddy simulation (LES) Investigations (BeVERLI) aims to produce an experimental dataset of three-dimensional non-equilibrium turbulent boundary layers with various levels of separation that, for the first time, meets the most exacting requirements of computational fluid dynamics validation. The application of simulations and modeling in high-consequence engineering environments has become increasingly prominent in the past two decades, considerably raising the standards and demands of model validation and forcing a significant paradigm shift in the design of corresponding validation experiments. In this paper, based on the experiences of project BeVERLI, we present strategies for designing and executing validation experiments, hoping to ease the transition into this new era of fluid dynamics experimentation and help upcoming validation experiments succeed. We discuss the selection of a flow for validation, the synergistic use of simulations and experiments, cross-institutional collaborations, and tools, such as model scans, time-dependent measurements, and repeated and redundant measurements. The proposed strategies are shown to successfully mitigate risks and enable the methodical identification, measurement, uncertainty quantification, and characterization of critical flow features, boundary conditions, and corresponding sensitivities, promoting the highest levels of model validation experiment completeness per Oberkampf and Smith [1]. Furthermore, the applicability of these strategies to estimating critical and difficult-to-obtain bias error uncertainties of different measurement systems, e.g., the underprediction of high-order statistical moments from particle image velocimetry velocity field data due to spatial filtering effects, and to systematically assessing the quality of uncertainty estimates is shown.
Computational Modeling of Walking Beam Type Reheat Furnace for the Prediction of Slab Heating and Scale Formation
Authors: Singh Saurabh , Kumar Vineet , Ghose Prakash
Published: October 2023

Computational modeling using the high-viscosity laminar flow approach was applied to study the effect of slab crossing time on slab heating and scale growth. Simulation of an existing industrial walking beam reheating furnace with four zones, outer refractory body, skid, slab, and fluid zone is considered. The fuel used was a mixture of coke oven and blast furnace gas. Preheated air is supplied co-axially with the fuel mixture. The combustion simulation is performed using the constrained equilibrium mixture fraction model. From the results, it has been observed that with an increase in slab residence time, the slab temperature and scale growth increase across the slab. For the system considered, with a fuel mass flowrate of 70,000 kg/h, 150–180 min of slab crossing time is appropriate to obtain desired slab temperature at the discharge end. The overall equivalence ratio is taken as Φ = 1 (fuel/air ratio is the same as stoichiometric ratio). The maximum slab scale thickness is evaluated as 2.4 mm at the discharged end for 180 min of slab crossing time.
Computational Modeling With Phantom-Tissue Validation of Gold-Nanorod-Enhanced Laser Ablation of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Liang Huishan , Qian Zhiqin , Zhang Hanwei , Luo Yigang , Moser Michael A. J. , Zhang Wenjun , Zhang Bing
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study was to develop a computational model for the laser ablation (LA) of prostate cancer, enhanced by gold-nanorods (GNRs) in a phantom-tissue system, and to explore the effect of GNRs on the ablation zone. A prostate biomimetic tissue (PBT) was prepared with different volume fractions of GNRs (i.e., 0, 1.68 × 10−7 or 8.40 × 10−7). Specifically, the computational model was built by considering the change of light properties of PBTs with and without GNRs and introducing the dynamic heat source determined by porcine liver carbonization, reported elsewhere. The computational model was then validated by comparing the simulation and the ex vivo LA experiment in terms of three performance indexes, namely, (i) the spatiotemporal temperature distribution, (ii) ablation zone, and (iii) carbonization zone, with the three volume fractions of GNRs in the PBT model, as mentioned above. Except for minor discrepancies found in the carbonization zone, the proposed model agrees with the experimental data. The effect of GNRs on LA was explored with the help of the model, and nine combinations of the laser powers and the volume fractions of GNRs were tested. The result shows that the ablation zone increases with the increase in the volume fraction of GNRs for all three laser powers used. Two conclusions can be drawn: (1) loading GNRs into the tissues may increase the ablation zone of LA, and (2) the proposed computational model is a reliable tool for predicting the spatiotemporal temperature distribution and the ablation zone of the GNR-enhanced LA.
Characterization of a Novel Additive Manufacturing Micromix Nozzle Burning Methane to Hydrogen
Authors: Durocher Antoine , Fan Luming , Francolini Benjamin , Füri Marc , Bourque Gilles , Sirois Julien , May David , Bergthorson Jeffrey M. , Yun Sean , Vena Patrizio
Published: October 2023

As the energy landscape transitions to low/zero-carbon fuels, gas turbine manufacturers are targeting fuel flexible operation with natural gas, syngas, and hydrogen-enriched mixtures. Having a single geometry that can support the different fuel blends requested by clients can accelerate the transition to cleaner energy generation and mitigate the environmental impact of gas turbines. Toward this goal, micromix combustion technology has received significant interest, and when coupled with additive manufacturing, novel injector geometries with unique configurations may be capable of stabilizing premixed, partially-premixed, and diffusion flames using fuel mixtures ranging from pure methane to pure hydrogen. In this work, a preliminary investigation of this micromix concept is performed in the Atmospheric Combustion Rig at the National Research Council (NRC) Canada. Flame stability maps are obtained for fuel lean mixtures of H2/CH4 ranging from 0/100, 70/30, 90/10, to 100/0%, by volume. Multiple flame shapes are observed depending on the fuel mixture and combustion mode selected. Particle image velocimetry (PIV), OH, and acetone planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF), and acoustic measurements provide additional insights into the combustion process of these novel burners to better understand the stability mechanisms. The quality of the fuel–air mixing from the premixed and micromix injectors is assessed using acetone as a tracer for the fuel, while simultaneous OH-PLIF measurements provide an indication of the postflame regions in the flow. Acoustic measurements complete the current dataset and provide combustion dynamics maps measuring the normalized pressure amplitudes and identifying the dominant frequencies. The preliminary characterization of this additive manufacturing (AM) micromix nozzle shows promising fuel flexibility with wide stability margins and low combustion dynamics for this single nozzle burner.
Experimental and Computational Heat Transfer Study of sCO2 Single-Jet Impingement
Authors: Richardson John , Wardell Ryan , Fernandez Erik , Kapat Jayanta S.
Published: October 2023

This study experimentally and computationally investigates the heat transfer capability of supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) single jet impingement. The evaluated jet Reynolds number range is between 80,000 and 600,000, with a nondimensional jet-to-target surface spacing of 2.8. CO2-impinging jet stagnation conditions were maintained at approximately 200 bar and a temperature of ∼400 °C for most experiments. The goal is to understand how changes in the aforementioned parameters influence heat transfer between the working fluid and the heated surface. Additionally, due to the elevated Reynolds numbers and difference in thermodynamic properties between air and CO2, air-derived impingement correlations may not be appropriate for CO2 impingement; these correlations will be evaluated against experimental sCO2 impingement data. At the time of this study, no sCO2 impingement data was available relevant to sCO2 power cycles. The target surface is a 1.5-in. diameter copper block centered on the 3 mm jet orifice. A mica heating element bolted to the bottom of the copper block provides a uniform heat flux. Thermocouples embedded in the copper block are used to determine the surface temperature. Nusselt numbers obtained from experimental sCO2 test data are compared to area-averaged Nusselt numbers from air-derived correlations. The comparisons showed that air correlations drastically underpredict the heat transfer when sCO2 is used as the working fluid. A modified sCO2 correlation using experimental data at discussed conditions is derived based on an existing air correlation. A CFD study is also performed to further investigate sCO2 heat transfer characteristics, and assess the numerical model applicability to this problem type.
Thermoacoustic Characterization of a Premixed Multi Jet Burner for Hydrogen and Natural Gas Combustion
Authors: Beuth Jan Paul , Reumschüssel Johann Moritz , von Saldern Jakob G. R. , Wassmer Dominik , Ćosić Bernhard , Paschereit Christian Oliver , Oberleithner Kilian
Published: October 2023

In this study, the acoustics and flame dynamics of a prototype multi jet burner with 19 individual mixing tubes for operation with pure hydrogen and pure natural gas are experimentally investigated. The burner transfer matrix (BTM) of the jet burner is determined from experimental data and acoustic network modeling, showing very good agreement. The burner plate and attached mixing tubes are shown to be well approximated with an acoustic model of a perforated plate with bias flow. Accordingly, the burner is found to feature a high level of acoustic damping. A comparison of the flame dynamics of the two fuels considering mass flow and equivalence ratio variation reveals that the flame transfer functions (FTFs) are dominated by a convective mechanism originating from the upstream end of the mixing tubes where the fuel is injected. Consequently, these are most likely fluctuations in the equivalence ratio that feature two characteristic time scales: the convection time in the mixing tubes and along the flame. The overall qualitative shape of the FTFs for hydrogen and natural gas at equal thermal power is found to be similar, with the dynamics of the natural gas flames being more responsive to acoustic excitation, as evident in generally higher gain values. Distinctly less pronounced phase decays are observed for hydrogen compared to natural gas operation. Moreover, the FTFs for H2 are found to change only slightly across the considered range of equivalence ratios. At the same time, we observe only small changes in the corresponding static flame shapes. These observations are consistent with the hypothesis of a dominant convective mechanism. In conclusion, the study provides valuable information on the acoustics and flame dynamics of multi jet burners for flexible fuel operation.
Recent Progress on the Tribological Applications of Solid Lubricants
Authors: Miao Changqing , Tang Jun , Yang Kang , Xiao Na , Shao Zihe , Zhang Feizhi , Zhang Honglei , Xiong Yahui , Xiong Bangying , Chen Hao
Published: October 2023

Nonrenewable energy has produced abundant waste during tribological applications because a large portion of energy has been consumed to overcome friction and wear. Solid lubricants have recently aroused significant interest due to their defined friction and wear properties. Despite enormous efforts on solid lubricants, their important contributions to coatings, bulk materials, oil/grease, and super-lubricity have not yet been fully evaluated. This paper discusses in detail the present status of solid lubricants as effective reinforcements in tribology. It begins with the introduction of various descriptions and advanced structures of solid lubricants. Afterwards, it discussed their applications on improving friction properties in coatings and bulk materials. Additionally, lubrication mechanisms of solid lubricants in oil/grease are highlighted, followed by the detailed discussion of super-lubricity for solid lubricants. Finally, this review concludes final outlooks on the main challenges and future directions in this key area.
Entire Torque Range Monitoring of Bolted Joints Via Nonlinear Electromechanical Impedance Spectroscopy (NEMIS)
Authors: Lu Runye , Shen Yanfeng
Published: October 2023

This paper proposes a Nonlinear Electro-mechanical Impedance Spectroscopy (NEMIS) methodology for the entire torque range monitoring of bolted joints. NEMIS utilizes a temporal interrogative signal to obtain the nonlinear impedance spectrum. It is capable of evaluating the structural resonance information as the conventional EMIS does and capturing the Contact Acoustic Nonlinearity (CAN) features simultaneously with only a single Piezoelectric Wafer Active Sensor (PWAS). A comparative illustration of the underlying mechanism behind the conventional EMIS, nonlinear ultrasonic techniques, and the proposed NEMIS was conducted. Subsequently, a reduced-order analytical model was established to simulate the variable rough interfaces of the bolted joints at different looseness stages. Parametric studies were carried out on the model to demonstrate the higher harmonics and vibro-acoustic modulation features from the bolt looseness. Ultimately, the experimental implementation of NEMIS for the entire torque range monitoring of a bolted joint was performed and compared with the conventional EMIS method. It was proved that NEMIS could detect both the incipient bolt loosening at an embryo stage and severe loosening of the bolted joints at the terminal period, combining the merits of the conventional EMIS and the nonlinear ultrasonic methodology. The paper finishes with summary, concluding remarks, and suggestions for future work.
Measurement System Analysis of a Novel Phase-Based Ultrasonic NDE Technique for Bond Strength Measurement
Authors: Takunju Peter , Webster Matthew , Zalameda Joseph
Published: October 2023

Fiber reinforced polymer parts have shown tremendous benefits in aerospace structural applications, but their qualification and certification for use in safety critical areas are currently hindered by the lack of a capable non-destructive evaluation (NDE) method or technique for the inspection of these adhesively bonded parts. Conventional NDE methods and techniques typically detect gross bond defects in a qualitative (Pass/Fail) manner. These techniques struggle to detect weak or kissing bonds. Also, there are no widely adopted NDE methods or techniques for measuring interfacial bond strength or detecting kissing bonds. Bond strength is currently ensured by process control and semi-destructive testing. Results from recent research from other authors, including but not limited to mechanical testing, have shown an excellent correlation between interfacial stiffness of an adhesively bonded joint and the adhesive bond strength of that joint. In this paper, a measurement system analysis (MSA) of a novel phase-based ultrasonic NDE Technique, developed at NASA Langley Research Center, is presented for bond strength measurements to assess at an increased level the measurement process and identify components of variation in the process.
Comparative Study on Deep Learning Methods for Defect Identification and Classification in Composite Aerostructure Material
Authors: Yunker Austin , Lake Rami , Kettimuthu Rajkumar , Kral Zach
Published: October 2023

Aircraft structures are required to have a high level of quality to satisfy their need for light weight, efficient flight, and withstanding high loads over their lifespan. These aerostructures are typically made from composite material due to their good tensile strength and resistance to compression. To ensure their structural integrity, the composite material requires inspection for common flaws such as porosity, delaminations, voids, foreign object debris, and other defects. Ultrasonic testing (UT) is a popular non-destructive inspection (NDI) technique used for effectively evaluating composite material. Current inspection methods rely heavily on human experience and are extremely time consuming. Therefore, there is a need for the development of techniques to reduce the manual inspection time. This work compares the performance of different deep learning-based methods in the identification and classification of defects. Deep learning has shown great promise in numerous fields, and we show its effectiveness in the evaluation of composite aerostructure material. The methods developed here are both highly reliable with a top recall value of 98.63% as well as extremely efficient requiring an average of 4 seconds during the inferencing stage to evaluate new composites.