bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing CO2 Purification in a Negative CO2 Emission Power Plant
Authors: Amiri Milad , Mikielewicz Jarosław , Ziółkowski Paweł , Mikielewicz Dariusz
Published: July 2024

In the pursuit of mitigating CO2 emissions, this study investigates the optimization of CO2 purification within a negative CO2 emission power plant using a spray ejector condenser (SEC) coupled with a separator. The approach involves direct‐contact condensation of vapor, primarily composed of an inert gas (CO2), facilitated by a subcooled liquid spray. A comprehensive analysis is presented, employing a numerical model to simulate a cyclone separator under various SEC outlet conditions. Methodologically, the simulation, conducted in Fluent, encompasses three‐dimensional, transient, and turbulent characteristics using the Reynolds stress model turbulent model and mixture model to replicate the turbulent two‐phase flow within a gas–liquid separator. Structural considerations are delved into, evaluating the efficacy of single‐ and dual‐inlet separators to enhance CO2 purification efficiency. The study reveals significant insights into the optimization process, highlighting a notable enhancement in separation efficiency within the dual‐inlet cyclone, compared to its single inlet counterpart. Specifically, a 90.7 % separation efficiency is observed in the former, characterized by symmetrical flow patterns devoid of wavering CO2 cores, whereas the latter exhibits less desirable velocity vectors. Furthermore, the investigation explores the influence of key parameters, such as liquid volume fraction (LVF) and water droplet diameter, on separation efficiency. It is ascertained that a 10 % LVF with a water droplet diameter of 10 µm yields the highest separation efficiency at 90.7 %, whereas a 20 % LVF with a water droplet diameter of 1 µm results in a reduced efficiency of 50.79 %. Moreover, the impact of structural modifications, such as the addition of vanes, on separation efficiency and pressure drop is explored. Remarkably, the incorporation of vanes leads to a 9.2 % improvement in separation efficiency and a 16.8 % reduction in pressure drop at a 10 % LVF. The findings underscore the significance of structural considerations and parameter optimization in advancing CO2 capture technologies, with implications for sustainable energy production and environmental conservation.
Redox Transformations of the OX063 Radical in Biological Media: Oxidative Decay of Initial Trityl with Further Formation of Structurally‐Modified TAM
Authors: Ovcherenko Sergey S. , Raizvich Arthur E. , Rogozhnikova Olga Yu. , Tormyshev Victor M. , Trukhin Dmitry V. , Koval Vladimir V. , Salnikov Georgii E. , Genaev Alexander M. , Shernyukov Andrey V. , Bagryanskaya Elena G.
Published: July 2024

Being a low‐toxic and hydrophilic representative of TAM, OX063 has shown its suitability for in‐vivo and in‐cell EPR experiments and design of spin labels. Using 13C labeling, we investigated the course of oxidative degradation of OX063 into quinone‐methide (QM) under the influence of superoxide as well as further thiol‐promoted reduction of QM into TAM radical, which formally corresponds to substitution of a carboxyl function by a hydroxyl group. We found these transformations being quantitative in model reactions mimicking specific features of biological media and confirmed the presence of these reactions in the blood and liver homogenate of mice in vitro. The emergence of the trityl with the hydroxyl group can be masked by an initial TAM in EPR spectra and may introduce distortions into EPR‐derived oximetry data if they have been obtained for objects under hypoxia. 13C labeling allows one to detect its presence, considering its different hyperfine splitting constant on 13C1 (2.04 mT) as compared to OX063 (2.30 mT). The potential involvement of these reactions should be considered when using TAM in spin‐labeling of biopolymers intended for subsequent EPR experiments, as well as in the successful application of TAM in experiments in vivo and in cell.
Photocatalytic Sulfonylation: Innovations and Applications
Authors: Huang An‐Xiang , Li Rui , Lv Qi‐Yan , Yu Bing
Published: July 2024

Photosynthesis, converting sustainable solar energy into chemical energy, has emerged as a promising craft to achieve diverse organic transformations due to its mild reaction conditions, sustainability, and high efficiency. The synthesis of sulfonated compounds has drawn significant attention in the pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and materials industries due to the unique structure and electronic properties of the sulfonyl groups. Over the past decades, many photocatalytic sulfonylation reactions have been developed. In this review, the recent advances in photocatalyzed sulfonylation have been reviewed since 2020, with a primary focus on discussing reaction design and mechanism.
The Milan system atypia of undetermined significance: 5‐year performance data
Authors: Lagerstam Henri , Tommola Erkka , Kares Saara , Kholová Ivana
Published: July 2024

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the category atypia of undetermined significance (AUS) at the authors' institution based on the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology.

Methods

All AUS cases diagnosed at Fimlab Laboratories between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2022, were included. Histologic verifications were checked until May 31, 2023. The upper‐bound and lower‐bound risk of malignancy and risk of neoplasm were calculated. The timelines between the pathology laboratory workflow and patient management were also calculated.

Results

From 1157 fine‐needle aspirations (FNAs), 162 (14.0%) AUS cases were diagnosed in 146 patients, with an average ± standard deviation age of 66.1 ± 14.9 years. There was variation in the AUS percentages, with higher values during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic years (15% and 17.5% in 2020 and 2021, respectively). Seventy‐five cases (46.3%) had histologic follow‐up: 16 were malignant neoplasms, and 36 were benign neoplasms. The upper and the lower bounds of the‐risk of malignancy and risk of neoplasm were 21.3% and 69.3% and 9.9% and 32.1%, respectively. The average time from the first FNA with an AUS diagnosis to surgical resection ranged from 6 to 682 days, and the time to the first repeat FNA ranged from 10 to 691 days.

Conclusions

The results indicated higher percentages of AUS cases compared with the reference value, which may be attributed to the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The risk of malignancy calculated in this study was closer to the reference value from the first edition of the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology compared with the second edition.
Optimizing Light Dynamics: Designing a Ni‐MOF Functionalized g‐C3N4 Type II Heterostructure and a Ti3C2 MXene Schottky Junction for the Efficient Photocatalytic H2 Production
Authors: Rajan Aswathy , Daniel Miriam , Rafi Jithin , Lazuli A R Stesho Crystalin , Neppolian Bernaurdshaw
Published: July 2024

The photocatalytic production of hydrogen (H2) from water is a vital avenue towards sustainable energy and addressing global environmental challenges. To maximize efficiency, harnessing the synergistic effects of multiple co‐catalysts is essential, as these interactions can significantly enhance performance. In this study, we introduce a ternary heterojunction composed of a nickel‐imidazole framework (Ni‐MOF), graphitic carbon nitride (CN), and Ti3C2 MXene (TC), employing solvothermal and wet impregnation methods, featuring a well‐designed Type II heterojunction and a noble metal‐free Schottky junction for efficient hydrogen evolution. The Type II heterojunction between Ni‐MOF and CN minimizes charge carrier recombination and promotes photogenerated electron generation, while TC as an electron acceptor enhances electron capture, increases participation in surface reactions, and augments active sites. Consequently, the Ni‐MOF/CN/TC hybrid catalyst achieves outstanding photocatalytic hydrogen evolution under visible light, with a peak production rate of 1044.46 μmol/g over 3 hours, surpassing CN by 13 fold and Ni‐MOF/CN by 50 %. This work provides insights into MXene‐based ternary systems, emphasizing the potential for enhanced light absorption and efficient charge separation, making it a promising platform for photocatalytic applications.
Mimicking functional elements of the natural flow regime promotes native fish recovery in a regulated river
Authors: Baruch Ethan M. , Yarnell Sarah M. , Grantham Theodore E. , Ayers Jessica R. , Rypel Andrew L. , Lusardi Robert A.
Published: July 2024

Streamflow regimes that maintain vital functions and processes of aquatic ecosystems are critical to sustaining ecosystem health. In rivers with altered flow regimes, restoring components of the natural flow regime is predicted to conserve freshwater biodiversity by supporting ecological functions and geomorphological processes to which native communities are adapted. However, the effectiveness of environmental flow restoration is poorly understood because of inadequate monitoring and uncertainty in ecological responses to managed changes in specific, quantifiable aspects of the annual streamflow regime. Here, we used time series models to analyze 25 years of fish assemblage data collected before and after environmental flow implementation in a dammed river in California, USA. We examined the response of the fish community to changes in individual components of the flow regime known to support ecosystem functions. We found that as functional flow components shifted toward their predicted natural range, the quasi‐extinction risk (likelihood of population declines of >80%) decreased for the native fish assemblage. Following environmental flow implementation, observed changes toward natural ranges of dry season duration, fall pulse flow magnitude, and wet season timing each reduced quasi‐extinction risk by at least 40% for the native assemblage. However, functional flow components that shifted away from their predicted natural range, including lower spring recession flows and higher dry season baseflow, resulted in greater quasi‐extinction risk for native species. In contrast, non‐native species decreased in abundance when flow components shifted toward predicted natural ranges and increased when components shifted away from their natural range. Although most functional flow components remained outside of their natural range following environmental flow implementation, our results indicate that even moderate shifts toward a natural flow regime can benefit native and suppress non‐native fish species. Overall, this study provides the most compelling evidence to date of the effectiveness of functional environmental flows in supporting native fish recovery in a highly regulated river.
Conformational and Electron Density Analysis of Bicyclo[3.1.0] hexanes: All Roads Lead to Boats
Authors: de Diego Saadia Sheila Irina , Rodriguez Juan Bautista , Vallejos Margarita M. , Szajnman Segio Hernan
Published: July 2024

In view of the existence of an optimal conformation for molecular recognition and bearing in mind that nucleosides exhibit a broad range of pharmaceutical properties, whereby their conformation has a key role in molecular recognition, the tendency of the pseudosugar moiety in carbanucleosides to adopt a boat‐like conformation has been studied on the basis of a bicyclo[3.1.0]hexane system, resulting in versatile druglike scaffolds to increase molecular recognition. It is already known that using this system as a pseudosugar can fix the conformation in the northern or southern geometry required for biological activity, according to the relative position of the three‐membered ring. By mapping their energy potential surface, we investigated the preference for boat‐like conformers in bicyclo[3.1.0]hexanes. DFT was utilized alongside NBO analysis to explore the enhanced stability of boat‐like conformers, also considering the influence of oxygen, sulfur, and selenium heteroatoms. Additionally, charge density distribution analysis using QTAIM identified key atoms contributing to stability changes. These findings will help to comprehend this behavior in the drug discovery process when conformationally restricted nucleosides are involved.
Charging control of lithium‐ion battery and energy management system in electric vehicles
Authors: Konijeti Mali Satya Naga Krishna , Murugan Lakshmi Bharathi
Published: July 2024

In terms of electric vehicle architectures, the drivetrain offers unprecedented freedom, but it also creates new obstacles in terms of achieving all needs. The architecture of electric vehicles is simplified and adjustable at the component level because they don't have a combustion engine or fuel tank, only an electric motor and a battery. Implementing safe zones within electric vehicles (EVs) to accommodate battery packs necessitates significant adjustments to ensure the secure integration of the battery. A Battery EV, also known as a pure EV, solely relies on rechargeable battery packs as its source of energy, without any additional propulsion system. The Battery Management System (BMS) plays a significant role in maintaining the safety of electric vehicles by controlling the electronics of rechargeable batteries, whether they are individual cells or battery packs. The BMS plays crucial role in protecting both the user and the battery by monitoring and maintaining the cell's operation within safe limits. This research paper focuses on the control of solar‐powered charging for lithium‐ion batteries. An optimized FOPID controller is utilized to maximize power extraction from PV array and efficiently charge the battery. A hybrid optimization model is employed to optimize the gain parameters of the FOPID controller.
Stratification of outcome of shoulder dystocia according to maneuver used for delivery, retrospective cohort and meta‐analysis
Authors: Elbarbary Nouran , Atre Rohit , Kurian Dona , Viswanatha Radhika , Ghai Vishali , Ganapathy Ramesh
Published: July 2024

Background

Shoulder dystocia is an unpredictable obstetric condition with potential long‐term neonatal complications. The risk of neonatal injury might be related to the condition itself as well as to the obstetrics maneuvers used for its release.

Objectives

To examine the available evidence to assess current management and possible improvement of outcomes.

Search Strategy

A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, EMCARE, and The Cochrane Library database was performed, all studies reporting on neonatal outcomes in cases of shoulder dystocia stratified by obstetric maneuvers used for delivery were included. Data abstraction was performed and checked by two independent reviewers.

Results

McRoberts maneuver was the least associated with risk of neonatal injury (odds ratio 0.6, 95% confidence interval 0.4–0.9), followed by delivery of posterior arm.

Conclusion

Delivery of posterior arm might be prioritized in cases of shoulder dystocia after failed McRoberts. Neonatal hypoxic injury correlates with the duration of dystocia rather than the maneuver used.
A predictive model for ischemic colitis: Integrating clinical and laboratory parameters
Authors: Hu Chonghui , Zhao Xiuying , Jiang Bo , Jiang Xuan , Ren Yutang , Guo Jiaojiao
Published: July 2024

Objective

We aimed to develop a predictive model for the clinical diagnosis of ischemic colitis (IC).

Methods

Clinical data were collected from patients with acute IC lesions who were diagnosed and admitted to Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital from January 2016 to December 2022. These patients were included in the IC case group in this retrospective observational study. The control group comprised patients aged ≥40 years who were diagnosed with abdominal pain during the same period, excluding those with IC. All patients were divided into a training and test sets based on the time window. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression was used to screen risk factors for the occurrence of IC. Logistic stepwise regression (maximum likelihood ratio method) was performed in multifactorial analysis, and a diagnostic prediction model for IC was established using R language. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) was examined to assess differentiation using working ROC curves. We used bootstrap resampling (1000 times) for internal validation. Model calibration curves and decision curve analysis (DCA) were also applied.

Results

Our study indicates that constipation, hematochezia, neutrophil counts, and specific abdominal computed tomography (CT) (plain scan) findings, including intestinal wall edema and thickening, intestinal lumen stenosis, and dilation, are independent predictors of IC. The predictive model exhibited high discriminative ability with an AUC of 0.9788 in the training set, and the calibration and DCA curves demonstrated excellent model performance. After validation, the AUC remained robust at 0.9868, underscoring the model's reliability in predicting IC.

Conclusion

According to our model, constipation accompanied by hematochezia necessitates careful consideration of IC. Abdominal CT (plain scan) is an effective diagnostic tool for IC, and it is common for patients to exhibit elevated neutrophil counts. The predictive model, demonstrating high discriminative ability and accuracy, shows promise for practical application in clinical settings, aiding in the early diagnosis and management of IC.
Fabrication of an innovative phosphonate Schiff base adsorbent for molybdenum adsorption and its applications for molybdenum adsorption from spent hydrodesulfurization catalyst
Authors: Younis Huda M.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

To investigate the recovery of molybdate from water and hydrodesulfurization catalysts, a novel synthesized phosphonate Schiff base, 4,4′‐(((2,2‐dimethylpropane‐1,3‐diyl) bis(azaneylylidene)) bis(methaneylylidene)) bis(2‐methoxyphenol) (HMI) and 4‐(((3‐((4‐(((S)‐hydroxyhydrophosphoryl)oxy)‐3‐methoxybenzylidene) amino)‐2,2‐dimethylpropyl)imino)methyl)‐2‐methoxyphenyl hydrogen phosphonate (HIMP), was utilized. This study aimed to assess the structural and property aspects of this synthesized compound using diverse characterizations, including FTIR, Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), mass spectrometry (GC–MS), fluorescence transfer spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and 31P‐NMR.

RESULTS

The study systematically examined several factors controlling molybdate recovery, including temperature, adsorbent dosage, pH, interaction time, and molybdate concentration using the batch technique. Optimal sorption effectiveness was achieved at pH 2, with an interaction time of 40 min, a 0.06 g adsorbent dose, at ambient temperature. The newly devised adsorbent exhibited an impressive adsorption capacity (Qe) of 372.54 mg of Mo per gram, with empirical data fitting the Langmuir and D‐R adsorption models. The kinetics of molybdate uptake followed second‐order kinetics. Thermodynamic aspects, including ΔG°, ΔS°, and ΔH°, were also investigated, providing appreciated perceptions into the energetic dynamics of the sorption process. Additionally, molybdate adsorption in the occurrence of other ions was explored, highlighting the selectivity of the modified phosphonate Schiff base for molybdate removal.

CONCLUSION

The study underscores the potential of the modified phosphonate Schiff base as a crucial adsorbent for molybdate elimination from both solutions and spent hydrodesulfurization catalysts. The findings offer important insights into the adsorption kinetics, thermodynamics, and selectivity of the adsorbent, enhancing our understanding of molybdate recovery processes and their broader applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
An adverse rearing environment alters maternal responsiveness to infant ultrasonic vocalizations
Authors: Rekapalli Alekhya K. , Roman Isabel C. , Brenhouse Heather C. , Cody Caitlyn R.
Published: July 2024

Rodent pups use a variety of ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) to facilitate maternal care. Importantly, infant USV repertoires are dependent on both the age and early life experiences of the pups. We have shown that an adverse rearing environment modeled with the maternal separation (MS) paradigm alters caregiving behavior but little is known about how pup USVs differentially elicit maternal attention. In the present study, maternal approach towards a vocalizing pup over a non‐vocalizing pup was tested in a Y‐maze apparatus at two developmental time points over the course of MS. At postnatal day (P)10, MS dams engaged in longer interaction times with vocalizing pups compared to non‐vocalizing pup, and this effect was strongest in male pups. As expected at P20, dams did not show a preference for either the vocalizing or non‐vocalizing pups regardless of rearing environment; however, MS dams spent a greater amount of time in the center of the apparatus as compared to control dams, which can be interpreted as a measure of uncertainty or indecision. These effects of MS on dam USV sensitivity are important considering the sex specific effects of MS exposure across all developmental stages. Our novel findings support the hypothesis that sex‐specific pup‐dam interactions may drive later life outcomes following adversity.
High‐resolution three‐dimensional micro‐computed tomography assessment of micro‐architectural patterns in non‐adults with cribra orbitalia: Correlation between macro‐ and micro‐scale bone features
Authors: Mikasinovic Veda , Djukic Ksenija , Milenkovic Petar , Jadzic Jelena , Milovanovic Petar , Djuric Marija
Published: July 2024

Skeletal porous lesions such as cribra orbitalia (CO) have long been of interest to bioanthropologists worldwide, mainly due to their high prevalence in osteological material. Previous studies considered CO as an external morphological manifestation, and therefore, research has mainly focused on visible (macroscopic) CO patterns. However, the understanding of CO‐induced micro‐scale bone changes is still scarce. Therefore, we performed high‐resolution micro‐computed tomography imaging to investigate three‐dimensional CO‐induced micro‐architectural patterns in non‐adults, with a particular focus on the correlation between macroscopic and micro‐architectural orbital features. Cortical and trabecular micro‐architectural changes in the orbital roof were analyzed in non‐adults younger than 15 years, using orbital roof samples with and without macroscopic traces of CO (n = 28). A widely accepted five‐grade macroscopic CO scoring system was applied to analyze CO severity. Areas affected with CO (area 1) and areas without macroscopic CO traces (area 2) were analyzed separately. The conducted high‐resolution analysis showed that cortical and trabecular micro‐architecture varied with CO presence, lesion severity (CO grade), and the analyzed area. Inter‐grade comparisons suggested that most of the analyzed micro‐architectural parameters were not significantly different between adjacent CO grades. Based on the micro‐architectural evaluation of areas 1 and 2, the porous lesions were much more extensive than revealed by gross examination. In addition, micro‐architectural differences were particularly pronounced in younger non‐adults. In summary, our pilot study suggests that the macroscopic examination of CO reflects only the tip of the iceberg, as the micro‐architectural changes seem to be much larger than macroscopically identified.

Research Highlights

Cribra orbitalia (CO) represents orbital porous lesions.

A high‐resolution microscopic assessment of CO‐induced changes in non‐adults was done by micro‐computed tomography.

The microarchitecture was affected by CO presence, CO grade, area, and age.
Assessment and management of allergic rhinitis: A review and evidence‐informed approach for family medicine
Authors: Jangan Akash , Mughal Zahir , Ahmad Ahmar , Simmons Mark , Sheikh Aziz , Mughal Faraz
Published: July 2024

Allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory disorder affecting nasal mucosa in response to allergen exposure and is commonly assessed and managed in family medicine. In this article, we review new international guidelines on the diagnosis and management of allergic rhinitis and generate evidence‐informed recommendations for family medicine doctors.
The development and implementation of a radiation therapy bariatric protocol
Authors: Cooke Stacey , Golusin Nick , Rattray Greg , Blyth Jemma , Parkinson Michelle , Hargrave Catriona
Published: July 2024

The rate of obesity is increasing in the Australian population, and this also includes patients with cancer. The safety and dignity of this cohort of patients is paramount as well as the timely acquisition of equipment required to assist patients with obesity to complete a course of radiation therapy (RT). The design and manufacture of equipment used in most RT departments is not suitable for the weight or BMI of all patients presenting for treatment. RT also operates under a unique set of circumstances that differs from the routine hospital environment which prompted the design of an RT bariatric protocol for use in our department. The protocol is based on the mapping of a patient's pathway from simulation and treatment. Treatment technique and equipment limitations as well as information relating to a patient with high BMI are used as trigger points that direct a patient pathway. The bariatric protocol provides the RT team with decision‐making support for appropriate resource utilisation ensuring safe and efficient treatment delivery for both the patient and staff. This paper will outline how the RT bariatric protocol was developed and implemented in our department, highlighting areas that required more attention due to the RT‐specific environment.
Sepsis call emergency department pharmacist service: a single healthcare network cohort study
Authors: Banakh Iouri , Louey Stephen , Rivers Graham , Hem Tavan , Israelian Lili , Kang Junwon , Luu Vivienne , Tanyeri Firuz , Rosler Rachel
Published: July 2024

Background

Sepsis and septic shock are common emergency department (ED) presentations, with current guidelines recommending early administration of antibiotics to reduce mortality.

Aim

Sepsis calls with pharmacist attendance have been introduced at two EDs, and the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of this service on outcomes of all septic patients.

Method

At a multisite, single healthcare network, located in Victoria, Australia, emergency medicine pharmacists were trained in assisting medical staff in antibiotic selection, dosing, and delivering antibiotics directly to nursing staff. The sepsis call service was introduced in May 2022 at one site and in March 2023 at another site, with time to first antibiotic administration, morbidity, and mortality being compared to the outcomes of patients from the same EDs from January–April 2022 (group 1). Post the sepsis call introduction, two cohorts were compared: sepsis call attended patients without a pharmacist (group 2) and with a pharmacist (group 3). This project was exempt due to the local policy requirements that constitute research by the Monash Health Human Research Ethics Committee (Reference no: RES‐23‐0000‐237Q). The justification for this ethics exemption was as follows: the study was retrospective, included privacy protections for patients' data, and presented no increased risk to patient care.

Results

The study included 201 patients, with time to first antibiotic administration on average 302.0 min in group 1, 201.3 min (p = 0.007) in group 2, and 89.8 min (p < 0.001) in group 3. Mortality (p = 0.306), rates of acute kidney injury (p = 0.111), intensive care unit (ICU) admission (p = 0.002), and need for dialysis (p = 0.497) were all reduced in group 3. Adherence to antibiotic guidelines was increased in group 3 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Emergency medicine pharmacist contribution led to reduced time to first antibiotic, an improved adherence to antibiotic guidelines, and positive trends in secondary clinical outcomes. Further research is required to determine the significance of improvements in mortality, intensive care unit admissions, and renal impairment.
Pharmacist's role in influenza immunisation: a scoping review
Authors: Parracha Edna Ribeiro , Rodrigues António Teixeira , Oliveira‐Martins Sofia , Romano Sónia , Almeida Diogo , Sepodes Bruno , Torre Carla
Published: July 2024

Background

Community pharmacists have become flu vaccine immunisers in several countries to increase vaccine uptake.

Aim

This study aimed to perform a scoping review to evaluate the pharmacist's role and contribution to flu immunisation coverage, satisfaction and promotion as vaccine providers.

Design

The framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley and the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‐ScR) were considered for this analysis. Two electronic databases (PubMed and Cochrane Library) were used to search for relevant peer‐reviewed quantitative, qualitative and mixed‐method studies published between 1990 and 2022.

Results

A total of 37 studies were included. These studies suggested that, over time, there was an increase in the rate of vaccine administration within community pharmacies across the various countries examined. Moreover, patients have consistently expressed their satisfaction with the convenience and accessibility of pharmacy‐based vaccine services, with some expressing a preference for pharmacies over traditional visits to their general practitioner′s office.

Conclusion

Several initiatives aimed at promoting flu vaccination have been rolled out in pharmacy settings, and a number of these initiatives have demonstrated positive outcomes. The flu vaccination service provided by pharmacists has proven to be an asset in public health by improving accessibility to immunisation services. Pharmacists should continue to take part in yearly flu vaccination programs as flu vaccine providers as they contribute to an increased uptake of immunisations by the population. Extending these services to other vaccines should be further considered.
Risk of pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis following COVID‐19: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Kim Hye Jun , Jeong Seogsong , Song Jihun , Park Sun Jae , Park Young Jun , Oh Yun Hwan , Jung Jaehun , Park Sang Min
Published: July 2024

Recent studies elucidate that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients may face a higher risk of cardiovascular complications. This study aimed to evaluate association of COVID‐19 with the risk of pulmonary embolism (PE) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This nationwide population‐based retrospective cohort study included Korean adult citizens between January 2021 and March 2022 from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency COVID‐19 National Health Insurance Service cohort. The Fine and Gray's regression with all‐cause death as a competing event was adopted to evaluate PE and DVT risks after COVID‐19. This study included a total of 1,601,835 COVID‐19 patients and 14,011,285 matched individuals without COVID‐19. The risk of PE (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 6.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.67–10.66;p < 0.001) and DVT (aHR, 3.05; 95% CI, 1.75–5.29;p < 0.001) was higher in COVID‐19 group in individuals without complete COVID‐19 vaccination. In addition, individuals with complete COVID‐19 vaccination still had a higher risk of COVID‐19‐related PE (aHR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.15–1.88;p < 0.001). However, COVID‐19 was not a significant risk factor for DVT among those with complete COVID‐19 vaccination. COVID‐19 was identified as an independent factor that elevated PE and DVT risks, especially for individuals without complete COVID‐19 vaccination.
A novel method for highly linear gradient coil design based on stream function
Authors: Zhou Yufu , Liu Zhengrong , Zhang Qing , Du Huiyu , Qi Fulang , Wang Changliang , Luo Penghui , Yuan Kecheng , Liu Qingyun , Huang Xiaoyan , Qiu Bensheng
Published: July 2024

Background

Magnetoencephalography (MEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are non‐invasive imaging techniques that offer effective means for disease diagnosis. A more straightforward and optimized method is presented for designing gradient coils which are pivotal parts of the above imaging systems.

Purpose

A novel design method based on stream function combining an optimization algorithm is proposed to obtain highly linear gradient coil.

Methods

Two‐dimensional Fourier expansion of the current field on the surface where the coil is located and the equipotential line of the expansion term superposition according to the number of turns of the coil are used to represent the coil shape. Particle swarm optimization is utilized to optimize the coil shape while linearity and field uniformity are used as parameters to evaluate the coil performance. Through this method, the main parameters such as input current distribution region, coil turns, desired magnetic field strength, expansion order and iteration times can be combined in a given solution space to optimize coil design.

Results

Simulation results show that the maximum linearity spatial deviation of the designed bi‐planar x‐gradient coil compared with that of target field method is reduced from 14% to 0.54%, and that of the bi‐planar z‐gradient coil is reduced from 8.98% to 0.52%. Similarly, that of the cylindrical x‐gradient coil is reduced from 2% to 0.1%, and that of the cylindrical z‐gradient coil is reduced from 0.87% to 0.45%. The similar results are found in the index of inhomogeneity error. Moreover, it has also been verified experimentally that the result of measured magnetic field is consist with simulated result.

Conclusions

The proposed method provides a straightforward way that simplifies the design process and improves the linearity of designed gradient coil, which could be beneficial to realize better magnetic field in engineering applications.
Morphology, viscoelastic properties and the mechanical performance of highly toughened polyamide 6/acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene/polylactic acid ternary blends
Authors: Foroozan Ali , Jahani Yousef
Published: July 2024

In this research, the morphology, rheology, and mechanical performance of polyamide 6/polylactic acid/acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (PA6/ABS/PLA) ternary blends were studied. The optimum ABS percentage in PA6/ABS binary blend to achieve highly toughened blend was determined around 35 wt.%. The spreading coefficient (Sij) predictions showed that each of PLA and ABS can form separate phase in the PA6 matrix. The evaluation of the interfacial interactions in the ternary blends revealed a higher tendency of PLA to interact with PA6 chains (Sij:−1.20) rather than ABS (Sij:−0.20) which is in comply with higher work of adhesion of PLA/PA6 than PLA/ABS and PA6/ABS. By adding PLA to the binary blends of PA6/ABS, it was found that the ABS domain size decreased due to rheological change. The localization of each component in the ternary blends observed in SEM analysis was in agreement with spreading coefficient predictions. Morphological evaluations revealed higher interfacial interactions between PA6 and PLA in the blends with up to 20 wt.% PLA. The optimized blend ratio of ternary blends showed higher complex viscosity at low shear rates and higher values than the mixing rule prediction. The optimum flexural modulus of 2 GPa and impact resistance of 47 kJ/m2 were achieved at 20 wt.% PLA in PA6/ABS/PLA ternary blend.

Highlights

The optimum PA6/ABS blend ratio to achieve high toughness was determined.

The phase localization in the blends predicted via Spreading Coefficient.

The interaction of PA6 and ABS enhanced by the addition of PLA in the blends.

The mechanical properties of blends are correlated with rheological behavior.

The flexural modulus of blends was higher than Halpin–Tsai model predictions.
Synthesis of paeonol hydrazone derivatives and their anti‐oomycete, anti‐fungal, and nematicidal activities
Authors: Hu Mei , Guo Xiaolong , Tian Yuee , Li Yan , Liu Yibo , Huang Xiaobo , Chen Genqiang , Che Zhiping
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

The natural product paeonol is a rich and sustainable natural bioresource, and its derivatives have various unique biological efficacy. As is well known, Schiff bases are a class of organic compounds with a wide range of biological activities, including anti‐fungal, insecticidal, anti‐viral, and nematicidal.

RESULTS

To discover biorational natural product‐based pesticides, nine intermediates (2–10), 12 sulfonylhydrazones (11a–11c, 12a–12c, 13a–13c, and 14a–14c) and 20 benzylidene hydrazones (18a–18r, 19a, and 20a) were synthesized by structural modification of paeonol, and their structures were characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), carbon‐13 (13C) NMR, and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). The stereochemical configurations of compounds 14a, 18d, and 18r were unambiguously confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Furthermore, bioactivities of these compounds as anti‐oomycete, anti‐fungal, and nematicidal agents against three serious agricultural pests, Phytophthora capsici, Fusarium graminearum, and Heterodera glycines were evaluated. Among all tested compounds: (i) compound 7 exhibited promising anti‐oomycete against Phytophthora capsici, with a half maximal effective concentration (EC50) value of 15.81 mg L−1; (ii) compounds 2, 7, 10, and 19a displayed promising anti‐fungal against F. graminearum, with EC50 values of 12.22, 14.72, 23.39, and 33.10 mg L−1, respectively; (iii) ten compounds (12a–12c, 14c, 18g–18j, 18m, and 19a) showed significant nematicidal activity against H. glycines, with median lethal concentration (LC50) values all less than 30.00 mg L−1. Especially for compound 18g, its LC50 value is the smallest, at 12.65 mg L−1.

CONCLUSION

The research results indicate that introducing nitro groups at the C5 position of paeonol, or introducing halogens at both C5 and C3 positions, can significantly enhance its biological activity against Phytophthora capsici, F. graminearum, and H. glycines. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Extending the Tight‐Binding Model by Discrete Fractional Fourier Transform
Authors: Miyadera Tetsuhiko , Yoshida Yuji , Chikamatsu Masayuki
Published: July 2024

An extension of the tight‐binding approximation model using the discrete fractional Fourier transform is proposed. The quantum state between localized and delocalized states is formulated, where the intermediate state is continuously parameterized. The mixed features of the localized molecular‐like state and delocalized wave‐like state are confirmed when the wavefunction and band diagram of the intermediate state are represented. The proposed model is expected to be used to represent the quantum state with localized/delocalized features in, for example, organic semiconductors.
Incorporation and Interaction of Co‐Doped Be and Mg in GaN Grown by Metal‐Organic Chemic Vapor Deposition
Authors: McEwen Benjamin , Rocco Emma , Meyers Vincent , Lanjani Alireza , Omranpour Shadi , Andrieiev Oleksandr , Vorobiov Mykhailo , Demchenko Denis O. , Reshchikov Michael A. , Shahedipour‐Sandvik Fatemeh Shadi
Published: July 2024

Despite recent advances in growth and characterization of GaN:Be, reliable conductive p‐type GaN:Be remains elusive. In this work, GaN is co‐doped with Be and Mg to improve the incorporation and ionization efficiency of both Be and Mg. Be and Mg are found to interact in complex ways rendering GaN:Be,Mg semi‐insulating. Rather than improving Be and Mg incorporation efficiency, there is an apparent mutual inhibition of incorporation when Be and Mg are co‐dopants. Furthermore, photoluminescence measurements indicate that the BeGa acceptor is reduced in particular, relative to the total [Be]. The same effect is not observed for Mg. From this, it is concluded that Mg preferentially incorporates into Ga lattice sites over Be, and excess Be that cannot incorporate into substitutional sites instead occupies interstitial sites. The interstitial Be acts as donor defect, which compensate Mg acceptors. This provides an explanation for the observed reduction in BeGa‐related luminescence intensity (without an associated decrease in [Be]) in GaN:Be with significant [Mg] content.
Lymphoid follicular hyperplasia arising from the chest wall presenting as a substantial mass
Authors: Kitamura Naoya , Tanabe Keitaro , Ojima Toshihiro , Shimoyama Koichiro , Noguchi Akira , Hirabayashi Kenichi , Tsuchiya Tomoshi
Published: July 2024

Lymphoid follicular hyperplasia (LFH) is a benign lymphoproliferative disease. Although it can occur within the thoracic cavity, LFH originating from the chest wall has not been reported. A 79‐year‐old woman was incidentally found to have a well‐defined mass on the left posterior chest wall during a preoperative examination for aortic valve replacement. The mass had slowly grown over 6 years. Thoracoscopic surgical resection was performed without complications. Pathological examination ruled out lymphoproliferative diseases, such as Castleman disease or malignant lymphoma, and a diagnosis of LFH was made. Although LFH generally has a good prognosis, surgical resection is recommended for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes owing to the possibility of malignancy masquerading as a reactive lesion. This is the first report of an LFH arising from the chest wall with imaging findings similar to other benign tumours. Its potential as a differential diagnosis for tumours with similar imaging findings is highlighted.
Self‐employed people with chronic health conditions: Business maintenance and well‐being
Authors: Sowan Wafaa , Yagil Dana , Cohen Miri
Published: July 2024

Chronic health conditions (CHCs) involve physical, psychological, and social challenges and can have a significant negative impact on work ability, which can then affect performance and job satisfaction. However, the various effects of CHCs on business operations and maintenance among self‐employed workers are understudied. This study examined four common CHCs that are characterised by persistent symptoms and can prompt major life changes: respiratory disease, heart conditions, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer survivorship. Groups were compared regarding the CHC's impact on business maintenance (declining in income and activity, and slowing business growth), and well‐being. A sample of 294 self‐employed workers with these CHCs completed questionnaires about how their conditions affect their businesses, physical symptoms, and well‐being. The four CHCs had substantial negative effects on business maintenance. Differences were found in reported changes in income, activity, and growth between individuals with inflammatory bowel disease and cancer. No differences in well‐being occurred among self‐employed people with different CHCs. In the overall sample, work absences and slowing business growth were negatively associated with well‐being. Although the groups differed in the severity of symptoms, threat to life, and treatment regimen, the CHCs had similar effects on most business maintenance factors and well‐being. Moreover, the results indicate that the inability to maintain a business can negatively affect well‐being.
Laser‐Patterning of Micromagnets for Immuno‐Magnetophoretic Exosome Capture
Authors: Molinski John H. , Parwal Siddhant , Zhang John X.J.
Published: July 2024

Efficient isolation and patterning of biomolecules is a vital step within sample preparation for biomolecular analysis, with numerous diagnostic and therapeutic applications. For exosomes, nanoscale lipid‐bound biomolecules, efficient isolation is challenging due to their minute size and resultant behavior within biofluids. This study presents a method for the rapid isolation and patterning of magnetically tagged exosomes via rationally designed micromagnets. Micromagnet fabrication utilizes a novel, scalable, and high‐throughput laser‐based fabrication approach that enables patterning at microscale lateral resolution (<50 µm) without lithographic processing and is agnostic to micromagnet geometry. Laser‐based processing allows for flexible and tunable device configurations, and herein magnetophoretic capture within both an open‐air microwell and an enclosed microfluidic system is demonstrated. Patterned micromagnets enhance localized gradient fields throughout the fluid medium, resulting in rapid and high efficiency magnetophoretic separation, with capture efficiencies nearing 70% after just 1s within open‐air microwells, and throughputs upward of 3 mL h−1 within enclosed microfluidic systems. Using this microchip architecture, immunomagnetic exosome isolation and patterning directly from undiluted plasma samples is further achieved. Lastly, a FEA‐based modeling workflow is introduced to characterize and optimize micromagnet unit cells, simulating magnetophoretic capture zones for a given micromagnet geometry.
Fracture and Wear Behavior of Functionally Graded 316L–TiC Composite Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Yazdani Sasan , Tekeli Suleyman , Rabieifar Hossein , Akbarzadeh Elina
Published: July 2024

Herein, the tribological and fracture behavior of multilayer 316L–TiC composites produced by the selective laser melting additive manufacturing process is investigated. The results show a robust interface between the layers and no cracks are detected even after a flexural strain of 0.4. The hardness of the composite layers with 5 and 10 wt% TiC increases by 75.5 and 104.8% compared to the hardness of the pure 316L stainless steel layer. Transverse rupture strength measurements show that a layer of pure 316L significantly improves the rupture strength of the multilayer samples. Wear test results show that the inclusion of TiC particles increases wear resistance, with the composite layer containing 10 wt% TiC demonstrating the highest wear resistance.
Formation Mechanism and Control Strategy of Transverse Corner Cracks in Continuous Casting of 55SiCr Spring Steel
Authors: Chen Jiaxi , Wang Fengkang , Wang Wanlin , Zhou Lejun , Du Jiang , Zhou Wenhao , Zeng Jie
Published: July 2024

An experimental study is conducted to reveal the formation mechanism of transverse corner cracks by analyzing the metallurgical structure, crack morphology, and hot ductility. The results reveal that the corner temperature of the billet tends to be lower during mold solidification, leading to the formation of grain boundary low‐plasticity ferrite. Additionally, during the straightening process, the corner temperature of the billet falls into the serious low‐temperature brittle zone with temperature lower than 850 °C. These two factors contribute to the formation and propagation of cracks along the grain boundary ferrite under straightening forces. Therefore, after the verification of mold simulation test and industrial trial, the temperature at billet (section size 150 × 150 mm2) corner is improved by increasing the mold chamfer radius from 6 to 12 mm. This adjustment ensures that the straightening temperature at billet corner elevated from 830 to 880 °C, remaining outside the serious low‐temperature brittle zone, and the maximum depth of corner cracks decreases from 741.49 to 344.89 μm.