bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of flow energy dissipation of a two‐stage storage pump based on entropy generation theory
Authors: Chen Taiping , Wei Xianzhu , Bie Rushan , Li Yang , Xu Bin , Wang Wenbo , Liu Yongxin
Published: September 2024

A hybrid power station comprising storage pump units and conventional hydropower components holds the potential to enhance the operational flexibility of basin hydroelectric regulation. The storage pumps must possess significant power capacity and operate with high efficiency to ensure viable energy storage. This study investigates the energy dissipation within a two‐stage storage pump using entropy generation theory. The numerical solution of flow energy dissipation (FED) components was obtained for various flow rates using the steady‐state single‐phase shear stress transport k–ω turbulence model. Results indicate that the return channel contributes the most to FED generation within the entire passage, with the FED proportion decreasing from 66.7% to 41.3% as the flow rate increases from 0.5QBEP to 1.2QBEP. The FED generation percentage from the runners increases from 10.4% to 46.9% with increasing flow rate, ranking second. The FED generation percentage attributed from the spiral case ranges from 10.3% to 16.7%, ranking third. Losses from the draft tube are found to be negligible. Flow pattern analysis reveals that FED generation primarily occurs at the junction of inferior flow (flow separation and vortex flow) and the main flow, where significant velocity gradients exist.
Investigation on Cooling Performance of Composite PCM and Graphite Fin for Battery Thermal Management System of Electric Vehicles
Authors: Mane Nikhil S. , Kodancha Pradyumna , Hemadri Vadiraj , Tripathi Siddhartha
Published: September 2024

Modern electric vehicle (EV) batteries need phase change materials (PCM) that are capable of efficient battery cooling. In this work, a composite PCM is prepared by mixing Fe3O4 nanoparticles (1 wt.%) in paraffin, and the effects of these nanoparticles on the enthalpy and melting point of PCM are studied. It is found that the Fe3O4 nanoparticle additives reduce the onset of melting from 61.46°C to 57.03°C. The composite PCM is used for the cooling of a battery module of 6 substitute‐18 650 batteries, and the cooling performance is experimentally and numerically investigated. The hybrid battery thermal management system (BTMS) utilizing composite paraffin demonstrates a significant reduction of 11.2°C in lithium‐ion battery (LIB) temperature compared with natural convection cooling at a heat generation rate of 2W. The numerical results in this study are in good agreement with the experimental temperature values, with a modest mean absolute error of 1.35°C detected between experimentally obtained and simulated battery temperature values. In order to deal with the low thermal conductivity of liquid PCM after PCM melting, a numerical investigation is conducted to study the effect of a graphite fin on the battery temperature. The use of a fin in hybrid BTMS considerably reduces the temperature of LIBs and temperature difference in the module. The numerical simulations capture the behavior of the phase change phenomenon, showing the evolution of liquid PCM under constant heating. This work presents the dynamic melting patterns of PCM along the length of LIB with and without a fin, which is useful for the effective design of BTMS.
Demand Forecasting New Fashion Products: A Review Paper
Authors: S. Anitha , R. Neelakandan
Published: September 2024

New product demand forecasting is an important but challenging process that extends to multiple sectors. The paper reviews various forecasting models across different domains, emphasizing the unique challenges of forecasting new fashion products. The challenges are multifaceted and subject to constant change, including consumer preferences, seasonality, and the influence of social media. Understanding such difficulties enables us to provide an approach for improved and flexible prediction techniques. Machine learning techniques have the potential to address these issues and improve the accuracy of fashion product demand forecasting. Various advanced algorithms, including deep learning approaches and ensemble methods, employ large datasets and real‐time data to predict demand patterns accurately. The paper suggests valuable information to experts, researchers, and decision‐makers in the fashion industry, as it addresses the unique challenges and examines innovative solutions in new product forecasting.
Predictor Preselection for Mixed‐Frequency Dynamic Factor Models: A Simulation Study With an Empirical Application to GDP Nowcasting
Authors: Franjic Domenic , Schweikert Karsten
Published: September 2024

We investigate the performance of dynamic factor model nowcasting with preselected predictors in a mixed‐frequency setting. The predictors are selected via the elastic net as it is common in the targeted predictor literature. A simulation study and an application to empirical data are used to evaluate different strategies for variable selection, the influence of tuning parameters, and to determine the optimal way to handle mixed‐frequency data. We propose a novel cross‐validation approach that connects the preselection and nowcasting step. In general, we find that preselecting provides more accurate nowcasts compared with the benchmark dynamic factor model using all variables. Our newly proposed cross‐validation method outperforms the other specifications in most cases.
Antidiabetic potential of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum): A magic herb for diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sarker Dipto Kumer , Ray Pallobi , Dutta Ashit Kumar , Rouf Razina , Uddin Shaikh Jamal
Published: September 2024

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum) is a widely grown dietary herb in Asia, and its seeds are traditionally used for several diseases, including diabetes. The seeds and leaves possess a variety of compounds that play an important role in regulating their hypoglycemic effect. However, so far, no extensive systematic review exists on its antidiabetic effect, highlighting the molecular mechanisms and isolated compounds. The purpose of this review is to summarize the preclinical and clinical antidiabetic properties of fenugreek and its isolated compounds by focusing on underlying mechanisms. PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Scopus databases were searched to retrieve articles until June, 2024. Preclinical studies demonstrated that the antidiabetic effect of fenugreek was mostly associated with enhanced glucose transporter type‐4 (GLUT4) translocation and hexokinase activity, decreased glucose‐6‐phosphatase and fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase activities, inhibited α‐amylase and maltase activities, protected β cells, and increased insulin release. Furthermore, few studies have reported its role as a glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) modulator, 5′‐AMP‐activated kinase (AMPK) activator, and dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV (DPP‐IV) inhibitor. Further clinical trials showed that fenugreek seeds improved blood glucose levels, insulin resistance, insulin sensitivity, and lipid profiles. This study highlights significant evidence of the antidiabetic effect of fenugreek and its isolated compounds; therefore, it could be a potential therapy for diabetes.
Investigation of musculoskeletal symptoms, work postures, quantification of muscle activity, and estimation of grip/push forces among sonographers
Authors: ZangiAbadi Zahra , Khabiri Hamid , Mirbagheri Alireza , Halvani Gholamhossein , Askarishahi Mohsen , Nasiri Mehnoosh
Published: September 2024

Due to the physical nature of their work, sonographers are exposed to many musculoskeletal disorder risk factors, including awkward posture, repetitive movements, forceful manual exertion, and static muscle contractions, especially in the upper limbs. The current study is an investigation of musculoskeletal disorders among sonographers, caused by various occupational risk factors via different sonographic scan types. During the first phase of this study, the musculoskeletal symptoms and work postures of 29 subjects were investigated. During the second phase, muscle activity was quantified, and grip/push forces were estimated using the data obtained from 10 volunteer sonographers. 82% of sonographers experienced musculoskeletal symptoms. Based on the final scores and action levels obtained via rapid upper limb assessment, while performing scans of left regions; ergonomic changes and interventions were found necessary, to relieve stress on the sonographer's body. The results of muscular activity per muscle and scan type, showed that the mean muscle activity of the middle deltoid muscle was significantly higher during the right abdominal scan (17.64% maximum voluntary contraction [MVC]), compared to those of thyroid (12.54% MVC) and left abdominal (7.32% MVC) scans. Additionally, mean grip and push forces during both abdominal scans were significantly higher than those during the thyroid scan. Despite an injury risk during all scans, risk factor impact was different among scan types. This groundbreaking study represents the first that captures and measures both grip and push forces simultaneously, which may prove helpful while investigating corrective interventions or optimizing design of sonography robots and ergonomic probes in future studies.
Simulation model to analyze the impact of work on absenteeism
Authors: Lucas Ruan Eduardo Carneiro , Merino Eugenio A. D. , Merino Giselle S. A. D. , Silva Luiz B. da , Leite Wilza K. dos Santos , Silva Jonhatan M. N. , Júnior José F. R.
Published: September 2024

Shoe manufacturing companies often use overtime work but neglect the impacts and importance of physical recovery time. Ergonomic methods aim to analyze this, but they focus on deterministic aspects, which limits their ability to evaluate working conditions amid variations over time. This research explores how a simulation model can mitigate these limitations and enhance analysis of overtime and physical recovery on worker absenteeism. The objective was developed a simulation model using System Dynamics (SD) to represent working conditions and assess the influence of overtime and recovery time in Brazil's footwear industry. An Ergonomic Analysis of Work was conducted in a large company's production cell. Using SD, were constructed a causal and simulation model to analyze three scenarios. An additional hour of work increased physical overload by 44%, leading to 5, 4 leave requests, and 48 days of absenteeism per year. Increasing recovery time by 15 min reduced overload to 38,96%, resulting in 4, 9 leave requests and 13,68 days of absenteeism. The SD simulation model mitigated the limitations of ergonomic methods in understanding the dynamic relationships over time, emphasizing the importance of actively managing overtime and physical recovery time.
Acquisition Time for Resting‐State HbO/Hb Coupling Measured by Functional Near‐Infrared Spectroscopy in Assessing Autism
Authors: Lin Fang
Published: September 2024

Functional near‐infrared spectroscopy was used to record spontaneous hemodynamic fluctuations form the bilateral temporal lobes in 25 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and 22 typically developing (TD) children. The coupling between oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO) and deoxygenated hemoglobin (Hb) was calculated by Pearson correlation coefficient, showing significant difference between ASD and TD, thus the coupling could be a characteristic feature for ASD. To evaluate the discrimination ability of the feature obtained in different acquisition times, the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was constructed and the area under curve (AUC) was calculated. The results showed AUC > 0.8 when the time duration was longer than 1.5 min, but longer than 4 min, AUC value (~0.87) hardly varied, implying the maximal discrimination ability reached. This study demonstrated the coupling could be one of characteristic features for ASD even acquired in a short measurement time.
6‐gingerol effect on rat liver following exposure to gold nanoparticles: From histopathologic findings to inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers
Authors: Fatemi Fatemeh , Vaezi Gholamhassan , Sharafi Shahram , Rahbarian Raheleh
Published: September 2024

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have unique features which could be beneficial to various aspects of clinics and industry. Long‐term exposure to AuNPs damages the physiologic functions and tissue structure of organs. Gingerol has anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study explored the effect of 6‐gingerol on alleviation of AuNPs exposure effects in rats' liver. Thirty‐two male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups of negative control (received no AuNPs or treatment), positive control (received AuNPs but not treatment), and two study arms (both received AuNPs and one group 50 and the other 100 mg/Kg body weight 6‐gingerol). All injections were performed intraperitoneally. After 30 days, serum levels of ALP, AST, ALT were assessed through ELISA method by an autoanalyzer while GGT, SOD, GPx, CAT, IL‐6, IL‐1β, TNF‐α, CRP, 8‐OHdG, MDA, and Bax/Bcl2 were measured using an ELISA reader. Paraffin‐embedded tissue sections of the livers from all groups were also prepared and H&E staining was performed on them for investigation of tissue changes. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26 and p = 0.05 was considered as the level of significancy. AuNPs exposure significantly increased the levels of ALP, AST, ALT, GGT, CRP, IL‐6, IL‐1β, TNF‐α, Bax/Bcl2, 8‐OHdG, MDA (p < 0.001) in positive control groups compared to negative controls, while treatment with 6‐gingerol significantly decreased the mentioned enzyme levels (p < 0.001). The level of antioxidant enzymes of SOD, GPx, and CAT, on the other hand, was found to be highest and lowest in negative and positive controls, respectively (p < 0.001). Treatment with 6‐gingerol significantly decreased the mentioned enzyme levels (p < 0.001). Histology results showed no signs of degeneration, necrosis, or immune cell infiltration in negative controls, while positive controls showed dilated central veins and hyperemia along with infiltration of mononuclear immune cells to the portal area, tissue degeneration, and necrosis. The study arms showed improved signs as they showed normal trabecular structures with no clear portal space. Treatment with 6‐gingerol seems to significantly and efficiently reduce the hepatic side effects of AuNPs exposure in Wistar rats.
Equation‐of‐motion orbital‐optimized coupled‐cluster doubles method with the density‐fitting approximation: An efficient implementation
Authors: Ünal Aslı , Bozkaya Uğur
Published: September 2024

Orbital‐optimized coupled‐cluster methods are very helpful for theoretical predictions of the molecular properties of challenging chemical systems, such as excited states. In this research, an efficient implementation of the equation‐of‐motion orbital‐optimized coupled‐cluster doubles method with the density‐fitting (DF) approach, denoted by DF‐EOM‐OCCD, is presented. The computational cost of the DF‐EOM‐OCCD method for excitation energies is compared with that of the conventional EOM‐OCCD method. Our results demonstrate that DF‐EOM‐OCCD excitation energies are dramatically accelerated compared to EOM‐OCCD. There are almost 17‐fold reductions for the molecule in an aug‐cc‐pVTZ basis set with the RHF reference. This dramatic performance improvement comes from the reduced cost of integral transformation with the DF approach and the efficient evaluation of the particle‐particle ladder (PPL) term, which is the most expensive term to evaluate. Further, our results show that the DF‐EOM‐OCCD approach is very helpful for the computation of excitation energies in open‐shell molecular systems. Overall, we conclude that our new DF‐EOM‐OCCD implementation is very promising for the study of excited states in large‐sized challenging chemical systems.
Incidence of Acute Kidney Injury in Trough and AUC/MIC Vancomycin Dosing Strategies in a Large Tertiary Care Center: A Retrospective Cohort
Authors: Ruiz‐Gaviria Rafael , Norman Sarah J. , Elgendi Sarah H. , Chou Jiling , Ramdeen Sheena
Published: September 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a complication associated with vancomycin use. There is evidence that this was related to the presence of supratherapeutic vancomycin levels rather than the drug itself. The area under the curve over 24 h to minimum inhibitory concentration (AUC/MIC) dosing for vancomycin has replaced trough‐based dosing, but the impact of this change on AKI rates remains unclear. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital. Patients from the trough cohort were recruited from January 1, 2019, to June 30, 2019, and the AUC/MIC cohort from July 1, 2021, to January 1, 2022. Sociodemographics, clinical characteristics, and concomitant medications were obtained. AKI was defined by The Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes. A total of 1056 patients were included, 509 in the trough cohort and 547 in the AUC/MIC cohort. The baseline rates of chronic kidney disease were 15.4% and 9.9%, respectively. The AKI rates were 15.9% and 11.9% for trough and AUC/MIC cohorts, respectively (P‐value .045). The most frequent nephrotoxins were piperacillin/tazobactam (TZP), diuretics, and IV contrast for both groups. The rates of supratherapeutic levels were higher in the trough cohort (20.7%) than in the AUC/MIC cohort (6.6%). The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that trough dosing was not associated with increased rates of AKI (OR = 0.96 CI 0.64‐1.44). Supratherapeutic levels (OR = 4.64), diuretics (OR = 1.62), TZP (OR = 2.01), and ICU admission (OR = 1.72) were associated with AKI. Vancomycin AUC/MIC dosing strategy was associated with decreased rates of supratherapeutic levels of this drug compared to trough dosing, with a trend toward lower rates of AKI.
The impact of mobility limitations on geriatric rehabilitation outcomes: Positive effects of resistance exercise training (RESORT)
Authors: Verstraeten Laure M. G. , Reijnierse Esmee M. , Spoelstra Thom , Meskers Carel G. M. , Maier Andrea B.
Published: September 2024

Background

Regaining walking ability is a key target in geriatric rehabilitation. This study evaluated the prevalence of walking ability at (pre‐)admission and related clinical characteristics in a cohort of geriatric rehabilitation inpatients; in inpatients without walking ability, feasibility and effectiveness of progressive resistance exercise training (PRT) were assessed.

Methods

Inpatients within RESORT, an observational, longitudinal cohort of geriatric rehabilitation inpatients, were stratified in those with and without ability to walk independently (defined by Functional Ambulation Classification (FAC) score ≤ 2) at admission; further subdivision was performed by pre‐admission walking ability. Clinical characteristics at admission, length of stay, and changes in physical and functional performance throughout admission were compared depending on (pre‐)admission walking ability. Feasibility (relative number of PRT sessions given and dropout rate) and effectiveness [change in Short Physical Performance Battery, FAC, independence in (instrumental) activities of daily living (ADL/IADL)] of PRT (n = 11) in a subset of inpatients without ability to walk independently at admission (able to walk pre‐admission) were investigated compared with usual care (n = 11) (LIFT‐UP study).

Results

Out of 710 inpatients (median age 83.5 years; 58.0% female), 52.2% were not able to walk independently at admission, and 7.6% were not able to walk pre‐admission. Inpatients who were not able to walk independently at admission, had a longer length of stay, higher prevalence of cognitive impairment and frailty and malnutrition risk scores, and a lower improvement in independence in (I)ADL compared with inpatients who were able to walk at both admission and pre‐admission. In LIFT‐UP, the relative median number of PRT sessions given compared with the protocol (twice per weekday) was 11 out of 44. There were no dropouts. PRT improved FAC (P = 0.028) and ADL (P = 0.034) compared with usual care.

Conclusions

High prevalence of inpatients who are not able to walk independently and its negative impact on independence in (I)ADL during geriatric rehabilitation highlights the importance of tailored interventions such as PRT, which resulted in improvement in FAC and ADL.
Bismuth oxide nanoparticles as a promising adsorbent for removal of quetiapine: synthesis, characterization, and application
Authors: Dedecan Tuba , Baylan Nilay , İnci İsmail
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Within the scope of this study, bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) nanoparticles have been synthesized by a simple method, and the usability of these nanoparticles as adsorbents has been investigated. For this purpose, Bi2O3 nanoparticles were synthesized by a chemical method. These particles were characterized by various methods such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area, scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. The nature of the synthesized nanoparticles was confirmed by characterization results and the synthesized particles were found to be nanoscale. As a result of the characterization, the average particle diameters and surface areas were found to be 22.24, 32.24 and 49.98 nm, and 5.95, 3.54 and 0.75 m2 g−1 for different calcination temperatures of 105, 250 and 600 °C, respectively. Adsorption parameters such as initial quetiapine concentration, bismuth oxide nanoparticle dosage, temperature, equilibrium contact time, and pH were also studied. Moreover, kinetic, isotherm, and thermodynamics modeling of adsorption have been performed to account for the adsorption mechanism of quetiapine by Bi2O3 nanoparticles.

RESULTS

The thermodynamic study has specified that adsorption has been spontaneous and exothermic. The kinetic study has pointed out that a pseudo‐second‐order model (R2 = 0.9853) has been favorable to the data. Furthermore, a Freundlich isotherm model (R2 = 0.8258) has been better fitted to the experimental adsorption results. The maximum adsorption capacity and percentage of adsorption values were 27.38 mg g−1 and 76.81%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The outcomes demonstrate that synthesized Bi2O3 nanoparticle is an influential adsorbent for removing quetiapine. Also, the obtained results enabled us to estimate the possibility of using Bi2O3 nanoparticles to remove active pharmaceutical ingredients by adsorption. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The 8‐oxoguanine DNA glycosylase‐synaptotagmin 7 pathway increases extracellular vesicle release and promotes tumour metastasis during oxidative stress
Authors: Ma Ying , Guo Jiarong , Rao Haipeng , Xin Jingyu , Song Xinyi , Liu Rui , Shao Shan , Hou Jiajia , Kong Liyu , Hu Zhigang , He Lingfeng , Pan Feiyan , Guo Zhigang
Published: September 2024

Reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐induced oxidative DNA damages have been considered the main cause of mutations in genes, which are highly related to carcinogenesis and tumour progression. Extracellular vesicles play an important role in cancer metastasis. However, the precise role of DNA oxidative damage in extracellular vesicles (EVs)‐mediated cancer cell migration and invasion remains unclear. Here, we reveal that ROS‐mediated DNA oxidative damage signalling promotes tumour metastasis through increasing EVs release. Mechanistically, 8‐oxoguanine DNA glycosylase (OGG1) recognises and binds to its substrate 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydroguanine (8‐oxoG), recruiting NF‐κB to the synaptotagmin 7 (SYT7) promoter and thereby triggering SYT7 transcription. The upregulation of SYT7 expression leads to increased release of E‐cadherin‐loaded EVs, which depletes intracellular E‐cadherin, thereby inducing epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Notably, Th5487, the inhibitor of DNA binding activity of OGG1, blocks the recognition and transmission of oxidative signals, alleviates SYT7 expression and suppresses EVs release, thereby preventing tumour progression in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, our study illuminates the significance of 8‐oxoG/OGG1/SYT7 axis‐driven EVs release in oxidative stress‐induced tumour metastasis. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the molecular basis of cancer progression and offer potential avenues for therapeutic intervention.
A proposed medical system change in Japan inspired by Swedish primary health care: Important role of general practitioners and specialist nurses at primary health care centers
Authors: Sato Rie , Jakobsson Ulf , Midlöv Patrik
Published: September 2024

Japanese citizens of all socioeconomic statuses have benefited from the national insurance system by receiving high‐quality healthcare. However, the Japanese healthcare service is facing a severe financial crisis because of the increasing aging society and social security expenses. Many consultations raise medical expenditure and doctors' work overload, which is about to be regulated, but is questionable how the goal can be achieved without delegating doctors' working tasks. Sweden has a similar health index to that of Japan, but the system is different and is anchored by general practitioners and specialist nurses assigned to primary health care centers. They collaborate to share the workload, responsibilities, and patients' continuous care needs. As a result, the number of consultations is kept small, the length of stay in hospitals is shortened, and doctors' working hours are protected. A system change inspired by Swedish primary health care can be a potential solution for Japanese society.
Does revolution change risk attitudes? Evidence from Burkina Faso
Authors: Sepahvand Mohammad H. , Shahbazian Roujman , Swain Ranjula Bali
Published: September 2024

A popular uprising in 2014, led to a revolution that overthrew the sitting President of Burkina Faso. We investigate if individuals' risk attitudes changed due to this revolution. We examine this impact by the main determinants of risk attitudes: gender, age and level of education. The analysis is based on unique panel survey data, allowing us to track the changes in the risk attitudes of the same individuals before, during and after the revolution. Our results suggest that individuals become risk averse during the revolution but return back to their pre‐revolution risk attitudes, with a slight increase in their risk attitudes, after the revolution is over.
Aspirations over tradition: Understanding Thai family farm succession planning
Authors: Jansuwan Para , Zander Kerstin K.
Published: September 2024

Our study aimed to examine the factors affecting family farm succession plannung. Results from a survey of 368 elderly farmers showed that some farmers were at an early planning stage (Stage 1; 12%), starting conversations with their children about the potential succession, while most were at a more advanced stage, which included involving their children in daily farm work (Stage 2; 38%). Approximately 22% of respondents involved their children in farm decision‐making while gradually transferring full responsibility to them (Stage 3). Farmers whose children indicated an interest in farming were more likely to be at the advanced stages of planning.
Is there still hope for the prophylactic hepatitis C vaccine? A review of different approaches
Authors: Rzymski Piotr , Jibril Aliyu Tijani , Rahmah Laila , Abarikwu Sunny O. , Hashem Fareeda , Lawati Abdullah Al , Morrison Fiona McGowan Martha , Marquez Leander Penaso , Mohamed Kawthar , Khan Amjad , Mushtaq Saima , Minakova Kseniia , Poniedziałek Barbara , Zarębska‐Michaluk Dorota , Flisiak Robert
Published: September 2024

Despite remarkable progress in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, it remains a significant global health burden, necessitating the development of an effective prophylactic vaccine. This review paper presents the current landscape of HCV vaccine candidates and approaches, including more traditional, based on inactivated virus, and more modern, such as subunit protein, vectored, based on nucleic acids (DNA and mRNA) and virus‐like particles. The concept of the HCV vaccine is first put in the context of viral genetic diversity and adaptive responses to HCV infection, an understanding of which is crucial in guiding the development of an effective vaccine against such a complex virus. Because ethical dimensions are also significant in vaccine research, development, and potential deployment, we also address them in this paper. The road to a safe and effective vaccine to prevent HCV infection remains bumpy due to the genetic variation of HCV and its ability to evade immune responses. The progress in cell‐culture systems allowed for the production of an inactivated HCV vaccine candidate, which can induce cross‐neutralizing antibodies in vitro, but whether this could prevent infection in humans is unknown. Subunit protein vaccine candidates that entered clinical trials elicited HCV‐specific humoral and cellular responses, though it remains to be shown whether they translate into effective prevention of HCV infection or progression of infection to a chronic state. Such responses were also induced by a clinically tested vector‐based vaccine candidate, which decreased the viral HCV load but did not prevent chronic HCV infection. These disappointments were not readily predicted from preclinical animal studies. The vaccine platforms employing virus‐like particles, DNA, and mRNA provide opportunities for the HCV vaccine, but their potential in this context has yet to be shown. Ensuring the designed vaccine is based on conserved epitope(s) and elicits broadly neutralizing immune responses is also essential. Given failures in developing a prophylactic HCV vaccine, it is crucial to continue supporting national strategies, including funding for screening and treatment programs. However, these actions are likely insufficient to permanently control the HCV burden, encouraging further mobilization of significant resources for HCV vaccine research as a missing element in the elimination of viral hepatitis as a global public health.
Exploring the relationships between interoceptive awareness and Gestalt resistance processes among counselors‐in‐training
Authors: Rodríguez Monique N. , Wooten H. Ray
Published: September 2024

Gestalt therapy is a humanistic approach that emphasizes awareness of one's inner experiences and recognition of resistance processes. However, research exploring the relationship between interoceptive awareness—awareness of internal bodily sensations—and Gestalt resistance processes remains limited. Addressing this gap, our study used a cross‐sectional design to examine how interoceptive awareness correlates with resistance processes among 112 counseling students. Our analysis revealed that higher interoceptive awareness is associated with lower resistance processes such as confluence, introjection, projection, retroflection, deflection, and egotism, with no significant association found with desensitization. The results suggest that improved body awareness could potentially impact resistance levels. This highlights the need to include interoceptive training in counseling programs to enhance therapeutic presence and self‐regulation among trainees. This study offers evidence supporting the influence of interoceptive awareness on resistance processes and suggests that future research should explore ways to integrate these findings into training programs and broader Gestalt therapy practices.
The pharmacologic management of status epilepticus in pregnant patients: a scoping review
Authors: Laswell Emily M. , Peters David , Orchard Jordan
Published: September 2024

Background

Status epilepticus (SE) is defined as 5 min or more of seizure activity or two recurrent seizures without a return to baseline. Healthcare providers encounter a challenge when a patient with SE is pregnant. SE is not only detrimental to the mother but can also put the baby at risk of severe harm. SE must be treated rapidly and therefore healthcare providers have very little time to thoroughly review the risk and benefits of available antiseizure medication in this population.

Aim

To evaluate the current available evidence related to the management of SE in pregnancy.

Design

A literature search of PubMed, CINAHL, ProQuest Nursing & Allied Health Source, and Web of Science databases was conducted (2012–2022) using the following search terms: ‘pregnancy’, ‘pregnant women’ OR ‘gestation’ AND ‘status epilepticus’, ‘generalized status epilepticus’, ‘generalized convulsive status epilepticus’, ‘non convulsive status epilepticus’ OR ‘non‐convulsive status epilepticus’. Full‐text randomised controlled trials, clinical trials, observational studies, and case reports published in English were included. Data were extracted and the quality of the studies was evaluated using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

Results

The literature described 29 pregnancies and 30 total foetuses. Intravenous benzodiazepine use for emergent control was reported in 45% of patients. Phenytoin and levetiracetam were primarily utilised for urgent control, with a variety of agents used for refractory SE. Ninety‐seven percent of maternal outcomes were reported as positive. The most common outcome was the birth of a healthy term infant. There were seven cases of pregnancy loss.

Conclusion

Publications pertaining to the treatment of SE in pregnancy are limited to case reports and small observational studies. Use of a benzodiazepine followed by levetiracetam or phenytoin is appropriate, whereas valproic acid should be utilised only when necessary due to the risk of major congenital malformation.
Biochar application regulates organic phosphorus fractions and the release of available phosphorus in farmland soil
Authors: Liu Xing , Wu Chenran , Jiang Dongqi , Zhang Yulan , Chen Zhenhua
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

The relationship between phosphorus (P) related enzymatic activity and organic P turnover remains unclear, particularly in the context of biochar application. Field experiments were conducted on Phaeozem and Luvisol soil types to investigate the effects of biochar application rates – 0 t ha−1 (CK), 22.5 t ha−1 (D1), 67.5 t ha−1 (D2), and 112.5 t ha−1 (D3) – on soil organic fractions using 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and relevant phosphatase activity.

RESULTS

The application of biochar increased the soil organic carbon (SOC), pyrophosphate (pyro), and orthophosphate (ortho) content, as well as the acid phosphomonoesterase (AcP), alkaline phosphomonoesterase (AlP), inorganic pyrophosphatase (IPP), and phosphodiesterase (PD) activities. Biochar application also increased soil organic P (OPa), the sum of inorganic P forms (IP), ortho, monoesters, and myo‐IHP contents, the pH value, AlP and PD activities in Phaeozem, but it significantly reduced diesters, polyphosphate (poly) contents, and IPP and AcP activities compared to those in Luvisol. Acid phosphomonoesterase and PD activities also showed an opposite trend in Luvisol. The structural equation model showed that the potential mechanism of organic P turnover in response to biochar application differed depending on the soil types, potentially influenced by P availability.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the findings of this study enhance the comprehension of the variation of P fractions and their availability in the context of biochar application for agricultural production in northeastern China. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Financial Toxicity of Long‐Term Survivors Who Underwent Pancreatoduodenectomy for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Muaddi Hala , Zironda Andrea , Zhang Chi , Day Courtney , Starlinger Patrick P. , Warner Susanne G. , Smoot Rory L. , Kendrick Michael L. , Cleary Sean P. , Truty Mark J. , Thiels Cornelius A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) for pancreatic cancer has a profound impact on patients' lives. However, the long‐term financial implications are poorly understood.

Objective

Assess the financial burden of long‐term survivors who underwent PD.

Methods

Patients who underwent PD between January 2011 and June 2019 were identified. To evaluate the long‐term financial burden, patients surviving ≥ 3 years post‐resection were prospectively surveyed using the Comprehensive Score for financial Toxicity (COST‐FACIT) and a customized institutionally developed questionnaire. A logistic regression model predicting high financial toxicity was used to identify predictive factors.

Results

Among 238 eligible patients, 137 (57.6%) responded. Responders had a median age of 66 (59–73) years, with 86.7% identifying as financial prosperous or comfortable. However, 33.3% experienced financial distress due to treatment costs, 27.3% demonstrated high financial toxicity on the COST‐FACIT survey, and 37.2% made sacrifices to afford treatment. Only 8.9% stated that the treatment costs influenced their decisions, and the majority (85.9%) did not discuss financial implications with healthcare providers. Multivariable analysis identified younger age as a risk factor for high financial toxicity.

Conclusion

One in three long‐term survivors experienced high financial toxicity, with younger age being a predictor. This emphasizes the need for efforts to provide comprehensive support and guidance to patients to navigate their oncological journey.
The changes of vegetation community characteristics led to the reconstruction of soil microbial communities and functions during the cultivation of degraded alpine meadows
Authors: Yin Yali , Zhao Wen , Su Shifeng , Dong Yiling , Li Shixiong
Published: September 2024

Unreasonable grassland use has degraded the alpine meadow on the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau in the past half a century, and approximately 32.1% of the degraded meadows degenerated to bare grassland. Artificial grassland reconstruction is a widespread measure for rebuilding the grassland ecosystems of these bare grasslands. However, does the soil microbe community structure improve with the aboveground vegetation restoration? Which microflora are more sensitive to environmental changes are not unclear. Thus, we analyzed four artificial grasslands established for different years on extreme‐degraded (ED) grasslands of the alpine meadows. These artificial grasslands were rationally utilized by grazing Tibetan sheep and Yak from December to April and were completely grazing‐prohibited in other seasons. In 2017, four plots of approximately 2400 m2 for each artificial restoration grassland (3, 6, 9, and 12 years) were selected as treatments with non‐degraded (ND) and ED meadows as controls. The potential predictors and regulators for soil microbial community structures and functions in the alpine meadows were evaluated. The results showed that artificial restoration did not affect soil microbe community compositions but dramatically changed the community constructions. The bacterial community structure was more sensitive to artificial interference than fungal. Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Mortierellomycota could be used as indicators of environmental changes. Compared with ED grassland, the soil microbial biomass carbon increased significantly by 29.5% and 33.7% in 6 and 9 years grasslands, respectively. The species richness and below‐ground biomass of grassland vegetation play a decisive role in soil microbial community and functional structures, while the soil water content and organic carbon, and soil elemental balance play a regulating role. Moreover, the abundance of soil bacteria with ureolysis and nitrogen fixation functions decreased significantly in grassland degradation, and soil pH played a major regulatory role. In conclusion, the vegetation and soil of artificial grasslands were in good condition after 6 years of artificial restoration. However, all the indexes declined to different degrees after 12 years of establishment, and the grassland ecosystem faced the risk of secondary degradation. The mixed sowing of many plant species with developed root systems should be adopted when artificially restoring degenerated alpine grasslands. Simultaneously, soil organic material supplementation and the balanced application of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers are recommended.
Assessment of a pH optode for oceanographic moored and profiling applications
Authors: Wirth Taylor , Takeshita Yuichiro , Davis Benjamin , Park Ellen , Hu Irene , Huffard Christine L. , Johnson Kenneth S. , Nicholson David , Staudinger Christoph , Warren Joseph K. , Martz Todd
Published: September 2024

As global ocean monitoring programs and marine carbon dioxide removal methods expand, so does the need for scalable biogeochemical sensors. Currently, pH sensors are widely used to measure the ocean carbonate system on a variety of autonomous platforms. This paper assesses a commercially available optical pH sensor (optode) distributed by PyroScience GmbH for oceanographic applications. Results from this study show that the small, solid‐state pH optode demonstrates a precision of 0.001 pH and relative accuracy of 0.01 pH using an improved calibration routine outlined in the manuscript. A consistent pressure coefficient of 0.029 pH/1000 dbar is observed across multiple pH optodes tested in this study. The response time is investigated for standard and fast‐response versions over a range of temperatures and flow rates. Field deployments include direct comparison to ISFET‐based pH sensor packages for both moored and profiling platforms where the pH optodes experience sensor‐specific drift rates up to 0.006 pH d−1. In its current state, the pH optode potentially offers a viable and scalable option for short‐term field deployments and laboratory mesocosm studies, but not for long term deployments with no possibility for recalibration like on profiling floats.
Bone‐Mimetic Osteon Microtopographies on Poly‐ε‐Caprolactone Enhance the Osteogenic Potential of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Vostatek Matthias , Verin Elettra , Tamm Marvin , Rothbauer Mario , Toegel Stefan , Moscato Francesco
Published: September 2024

The attributes of implant surfaces are pivotal for successful osseointegration. Among surface engineering strategies, microtopography stands out as a promising approach to promote early cellular interactions. This study aims to design and craft a novel biomimetic osteon‐like surface modification and to compare its impact on human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) with four established topographies: blank, inverted pyramids, protrusions, and grooves. Poly‐ε‐caprolactone samples are fabricated using 2‐photon‐polymerization and soft lithography, prior to analysis via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), water contact angle (WCA), and protein adsorption assays. Additionally, cellular responses including cell attachment, proliferation, morphology, cytoskeletal organization, and osteogenic differentiation potential are evaluated. SEM confirms the successful fabrication of microtopographies, with minimal effect on WCA and protein adsorption. Cell attachment experiments demonstrate a significant increase on the osteon‐like structure, being three times higher than on the blank. Proliferation assays indicate a fourfold increase with osteon‐like microtopography compared to the blank, while ALP activity is notably elevated with osteon‐like microtopography at days 7 (threefold increase over blank) and 14 (fivefold increase over blank). In conclusion, the novel biomimetic osteon‐like structure demonstrates favorable responses from hMSCs, suggesting potential for promoting successful implant integration in vivo.
Enhancing the Flow‐Accelerated Corrosion Resistance of X70 API Steel Through Laser Surface Melting in Synthetic Oilfield Water
Authors: T. S. Ajmal , Singh Rahul Kumar , Arya Shashi Bhushan , Kumar D. Satish
Published: September 2024

Hydrodynamic flow conditions play a critical role in piping failure due to sharp variations of the Reynolds number in process and petrochemical industries. The current study aims to enhance flow‐accelerated corrosion (FAC) resistance using metallurgy of the surface by utilizing the laser surface melting (LSM) technique. The FAC behavior of API X70 steel in simulated Indian synthetic oilfield water was studied by utilizing a closed‐loop corrosion apparatus to simulate the pipeline flow. Electrochemical corrosion experiments (AC and DC methods) were conducted at a constant fluid velocity of 3 m/s in untreated and LSM‐treated samples (at 2.5 and 3.0 kW) placed at a 90° pipe elbow. Experimental results showed that LSM‐treated samples displayed enhanced resistance to FAC, attributed to changes in surface metallurgy. Additionally, it was observed that the corrosion rate varied within the pipe elbow for the different samples at different locations.
Paying less as a signal of competence
Authors: Wang TzuShuo Ryan , Stoner Jennifer L. , Min Sophia D. , Loken Barbara
Published: September 2024

Past research suggests that cost‐saving behaviors such as couponing can trigger negative trait perceptions (e.g. that the consumer is being miserly), and consumers purchasing gifts may avoid use of coupons so as not to appear ungenerous. In contrast, we contend that cost‐saving can also send a positive signal. In five studies we show that cost‐saving enhances perceptions of consumer competence and financial management skills, which, in turn, can lead to more favorable brand perceptions. Using costly signaling theory, we further identify two boundary conditions for these signals to be perceived as genuine: (a) absence of ulterior motives (e.g., sponsored social media posts that diminish the authenticity of the signal) and (b) the presence of the quality being signaled (as higher‐class consumers are typically seen as competent). Our findings extend the scope of signaling theory to consumer behavior contexts, showing that costly signals must honestly convey positive qualities.
Modifying Polyvinylidene Chloride Resin with Fluorine Monomer and Cross‐Linking Monomers
Authors: Gao Fengjun , Zhang Zhifeng , Song Qianqian , Abo‐Dief Hala M. , Alzahrani Eman , Wang Shouyang , Liu Yan , Shao Qian , Yang Jing , Guo Zhanhu , El‐Bahy Zeinhom M. , Ge Ruixiang
Published: September 2024

Modified polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) resin was prepared using octafluoropentyl methacrylate and trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate as modifying monomers through seeded emulsion polymerization. The successful incorporation of octafluoropentyl methacrylate into the PVDC resin was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and XPS were utilized to investigate the element distribution in the modified monomer emulsion and the mechanism of monomer modification. The results demonstrated that the fluorine monomer was reacted in the resin, and mainly concentrated on the surface of the resin. The addition of octafluoropentyl methacrylate and trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate improved the water resistance of the resin. Compared to unmodified PVDC resin, the contact angle of the modified PVDC resin increased from 89.46° to 109.51°, and the water resistance at room temperature increased from 120 to 500 h. Furthermore, the modified resin exhibited excellent mechanical properties, thermal stability, and storage stability.