bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Integrated Performance of a Modular Biomass Boiler With a Combined Heat and Power Industrial Rankine Cycle and Supplementary sCO2 Brayton Cycle
Authors: Haffejee Rashid A. , Rousseau Pieter , Laubscher Ryno 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
In this paper, the integrated performance of a modular biomass boiler with an existing industrial Rankine steam heat and power cycle and a supplementary supercritical-carbon dioxide (sCO2) Brayton cycle is analyzed. The aim is to leverage the high efficiency supplementary sCO2 cycle to increase net generation and energy efficiency from the existing biomass boiler. Two sCO2 heater configurations situated within the flue gas flow path are investigated, namely a single convective-dominant heater, and a dual heater configuration with a radiative and a convective heater. A quasi-steady-state 1D model was developed to simulate the integrated cycle, including detailed component characteristics for the Rankine and Brayton cycles. The model solves the mass, energy, momentum, and species balance equations. The system is analyzed for three cases: (i) the existing Rankine cycle without the sCO2 integration, (ii) with the single convective-dominant sCO2 heater configuration, and (iii) the dual sCO2 heater configuration. The results show the required rate of overfiring for the sCO2 configurations, with a 15.3% increase in fuel flowrate resulting in an additional 21.2% in net power output. The model quantifies the impact of the sCO2 heaters, with reduced heat uptakes for downstream boiler heat exchangers. Furnace water wall heat uptake increased due to overfiring, offsetting the reduced heat uptakes at downstream evaporative heat exchangers. The dual configuration has more impact on Rankine cycle operation due to the radiative sCO2 heater placement in front of the second superheater, absorbing some of the direct radiation from the furnace.
Speed-dependent bacterial surface swimming
Authors: Liu Qiuqian , Zhang Chi , Zhang Rongjing , Yuan Junhua 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Solid surfaces submerged in liquid in natural environments alter bacterial swimming behavior and serve as platforms for bacteria to form biofilms. In the initial stage of biofilm formation, bacteria detect surfaces and increase the intracellular level of the second messenger c-di-GMP, leading to a reduction in swimming speed. The impact of this speed reduction on bacterial surface swimming remains unclear. In this study, we utilized advanced microscopy techniques to examine the effect of swimming speed on bacterial surface swimming behavior. We found that a decrease in swimming speed reduces the cell-surface distance and prolongs the surface trapping time. Both these effects would enhance bacterial surface sensing and increase the likelihood of cells adhering to the surface, thereby promoting biofilm formation. We also examined the surface-escaping behavior of wild-type
Escherichia coli
and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, noting distinct surface-escaping mechanisms between the two bacterial species.

IMPORTANCE

In the early phase of biofilm formation, bacteria identify surfaces and increase the intracellular level of the second messenger c-di-GMP, resulting in a decrease in swimming speed. Here, we utilized advanced microscopy techniques to investigate the impact of swimming speed on bacterial surface swimming, focusing on
Escherichia coli
and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
. We found that an increase in swimming speed led to an increase in the radius of curvature and a decrease in surface detention time. These effects were explained through hydrodynamic modeling as a result of an increase in the cell-surface distance with increasing swimming speed. We also observed distinct surface-escaping mechanisms between the two bacterial species. Our study suggests that a decrease in swimming speed could enhance the likelihood of cells adhering to the surface, promoting biofilm formation. This sheds light on the role of reduced swimming speed in the transition from motile to sedentary bacterial lifestyles.
Update on human herpesvirus 7 pathogenesis and clinical aspects as a roadmap for future research
Authors: Verbeek Rianne , Vandekerckhove Linos , Van Cleemput Jolien 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7) is a common virus that is associated with various human diseases including febrile syndromes, dermatological lesions, neurological defects, and transplant complications. Still, HHV-7 remains one of the least studied members of all human betaherpesviruses. In addition, HHV-7-related research is mostly confined to case reports, while
in vitro
or
in vivo
studies unraveling basic virology, transmission mechanisms, and viral pathogenesis are sparse. Here, we discuss HHV-7-related literature linking clinical syndromes to the viral life cycle, epidemiology, and viral immunopathogenesis. Based on our review, we propose a hypothetical model of HHV-7 pathogenesis inside its host. Furthermore, we identify important knowledge gaps and recommendations for future research to better understand HHV-7 diseases and improve therapeutic interventions.
Initiation of the Shape Memory Effect by Fast Neutron Irradiation
Authors: Bobrovskii V. I. , Afanasyev S. V. , Voronin V. I. , Kazantsev V. A. , Kataeva N. V. , Parkhomenko V. D. , Proskurnina N. V. , Sagaradze V. V. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
A sample made from a ribbon of austenitic-martensitic steel 0.3C–13Cr–10Mn–3Si–1V, pre-deformed in the shape of a circular arc with a deflection of 3 mm, was subjected to fast neutron irradiation with a fluence of 6 × 1019 cm–2 in the vertical wet channel of the IVV-2M reactor at a temperature of 80°C. This material belongs to the class of stainless manganese austenitic steels with the shape memory effect (SME). Initially, it was expected that irradiation would reduce the SME magnitude after subsequent heating of the studied sample in comparison with the reference one. But instead, the manifestation of SME was revealed already after irradiation, with a decrease in the deflection by approximately 21%. Control experiments confirmed that the lower temperature limit for the manifestation of the SME in this material lies at 120ºC and is absent at 80°C. This allows us to conclude that the effect observed is the result of neutron irradiation.
Efficiency assessment of follow-up methodology of patients with knee replacement to predict post-surgical functionality: a protocol for randomised control PROKnee trial
Authors: San Martín Valenzuela Constanza , Tabarés-Seisdedos Rafael , Payá Rubio Alfonso , Correa-Ghisays Patricia , Pedrero-Sánchez José-Francisco , Silvestre Muñoz Antonio 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionEven when total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an extended treatment, most patients experience a suboptimal evolution after TKA. The objectives of this study are the following: (1) to determine the effectiveness of two different prosthesis stabilisation systems on the functionality in activities of daily life, and (2) to determine prognostic biomarkers of knee prosthesis function based on radiological information, quantification of cytokines, intra-articular markers and biomechanical functional evaluation to predict successful evolution.Methods and analysisThe PROKnee trial was designed as a randomised controlled patient-blinded trial with two parallel groups that are currently ongoing. The initial recruitment will be 99 patients scheduled for their first TKA, without previous prosthesis interventions in lower limbs, who will be randomly divided into two groups that differed in the stabilisation methodology incorporated in the knee prosthesis: the MEDIAL-pivot group and the CENTRAL-pivot group. The maximum walking speed will be reported as the primary outcome, and the secondary results will be patient-reported questionnaires related to physical status, cognitive and mental state, radiological test, laboratory analysis and biomechanical instrumented functional performance, such as the 6-minute walking test, timed up-and-go test, gait, sit-to-stand, step-over, and ability to step up and down stairs. All the results will be measured 1 week before TKA and at 1.5, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery.Ethics and disseminationAll procedures were approved by the Ethical Committee for Research with Medicines of the University Clinical Hospital of Valencia on 8 October 2020 (order no. 2020/181). Participants are required to provide informed consent for the study and for the surgical procedure. All the data collected will be treated confidentially since they will be blinded and encrypted. The results from the trial will be published in international peer-reviewed scientific journals, regardless of whether these results are negative or inconclusive.Trial registration numberClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT04850300).
Experiences of living with overweight/obesity and early type 2 diabetes in Singapore—a qualitative interview study
Authors: Lee Mary , Khoo Hwee Sing , Krishnasamy Charmaine , Loo May Eng , Wong S K W , Cheng San Chye , Bei Eileen , Tan Shu Yun , Xie Pauline , Lee Eng Sing , Tang Wern Ee 
Published: May 2024

ObjectivesTo understand the lived experience of adults with overweight/obesity and early type 2 diabetes in a modern urban environment, and the interrelations among the various aspects of these experiences and participants’ attitudes to weight management.DesignQualitative inductive approach to analysing data thematically from semistructured interviews and interpreted from a socioecological perspective.SettingPrimary care clinics located in northern and central Singapore.Participants21 patients between 29 and 59 years old who are living with overweight/obese (Body Mass Index of 25.3–44.0kg/m2) and type 2 diabetes for 6 years or less.ResultsThe main themes–everyday life, people around me and within me–pointed to a combination of barriers to weight and health management for participants. These included environmental factors such as easy physical and digital access to unhealthy food, and high-stress work environments; social factors such as ambiguous family support and dietary practices of peers; and individual factors such as challenges with self-regulation, prioritising work, dealing with co-existing medical conditions and the emotional significance of food. While lack of motivation and cultural dietary practices are hard to change, a problem-solving attitude, and presence of role models, may enable behaviour change.ConclusionAn exploration of the lifeworld of patients with overweight/obese and early type 2 diabetes revealed that work demands, dietary practices in the workplace and at home, and the easy availability of calorie-dense foods afforded by a technology-infused environment hindered the individual’s efforts at maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle. Policy and initiatives promoting work-life balance as well as individualised interventions can support participants’ stress management, and problem-solving capability for behaviour change. These barriers stemmed from the various domains of the environmental, interpersonal and intrapersonal but were interrelated. They underscored the need for an integrated approach to weight and diabetes management.
Comprehensive observational study evaluating the enduring effectiveness of 4CMenB, the meningococcal B vaccine against gonococcal infections in the Northern Territory and South Australia, Australia: study protocol
Authors: Marshall Helen , Ward James , Wang Bing , Andraweera Prabha , McMillan Mark , Flood Louise , Bell Charlotte , Sisnowski Jana , Krause Vicki , Webby Rosalind , Childs Emma , Gunathilake Manoji , Egoroff Natasha , Leong Lex , Lawrence Andrew , Baird Rob , Freeman Kevin , Menouhos Dimitrios , Whiley David M , Karnon Jonathan , van Hal Sebastian , Lahra Monica M 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionThe effectiveness of antibiotics for treating gonococcal infections is compromised due to escalating antibiotic resistance; and the development of an effective gonococcal vaccine has been challenging. Emerging evidence suggests that the licensed meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine, 4CMenB is effective against gonococcal infections due to cross-reacting antibodies and 95% genetic homology between the two bacteria,Neisseria meningitidisandNeisseria gonorrhoeae,that cause the diseases. This project aims to undertake epidemiological and genomic surveillance to evaluate the long-term protection of the 4CMenB vaccine against gonococcal infections in the Northern Territory (NT) and South Australia (SA), and to determine the potential benefit of a booster vaccine doses to provide longer-term protection against gonococcal infections.Methods and analysesThis observational study will provide long-term evaluation results of the effectiveness of the 4CMenB vaccine against gonococcal infections at 4–7 years post 4CMenB programme implementation. Routine notifiable disease notifications will be the basis for assessing the impact of the vaccine on gonococcal infections. Pathology laboratories will provide data on the number and percentage ofN. gonorrhoeaepositive tests relative to all tests administered and will coordinate molecular sequencing for isolates. Genome sequencing results will be provided by SA Pathology and Territory Pathology/New South Wales Health Pathology, and linked with notification data by SA Health and NT Health. There are limitations in observational studies including the potential for confounding. Confounders will be analysed separately for each outcome/comparison.Ethics and disseminationThe protocol and all study documents have been reviewed and approved by the SA Department for Health and Well-being Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC/2022/HRE00308), and the evaluation will commence in the NT on receipt of approval from the NT Health and Menzies School of Health Research Human Research Ethics Committee. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific meetings and public forums.
Strategies for optimising early detection and obstetric first response management of postpartum haemorrhage at caesarean birth: a modified Delphi-based international expert consensus
Authors: Pingray Verónica , Williams Caitlin R , Al-beity Fadhlun M Alwy , Abalos Edgardo , Arulkumaran Sabaratnam , Blumenfeld Alejandro , Carvalho Brendan , Deneux-Tharaux Catherine , Downe Soo , Dumont Alexandre , Escobar Maria Fernanda , Evans Cherrie , Fawcus Sue , Galadanci Hadiza S , Hoang Diem-Tuyet Thi , Hofmeyr G Justus , Homer Caroline , Lewis Ayodele G , Liabsuetrakul Tippawan , Lumbiganon Pisake , Main Elliott K , Maua Judith , Muriithi Francis G , Nabhan Ashraf Fawzy , Nunes Inês , Ortega Vanesa , Phan Thuan N Q , Qureshi Zahida P , Sosa Claudio , Varallo John , Weeks Andrew D , Widmer Mariana , Oladapo Olufemi T , Gallos Ioannis , Coomarasamy Arri , Miller Suellen , Althabe Fernando 
Published: May 2024

ObjectiveThere are no globally agreed on strategies on early detection and first response management of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) during and after caesarean birth. Our study aimed to develop an international expert’s consensus on evidence-based approaches for early detection and obstetric first response management of PPH intraoperatively and postoperatively in caesarean birth.DesignSystematic review and three-stage modified Delphi expert consensus.SettingInternational.PopulationPanel of 22 global experts in PPH with diverse backgrounds, and gender, professional and geographic balance.Outcome measuresAgreement or disagreement on strategies for early detection and first response management of PPH at caesarean birth.ResultsExperts agreed that the same PPH definition should apply to both vaginal and caesarean birth. For the intraoperative phase, the experts agreed that early detection should be accomplished via quantitative blood loss measurement, complemented by monitoring the woman’s haemodynamic status; and that first response should be triggered once the woman loses at least 500 mL of blood with continued bleeding or when she exhibits clinical signs of haemodynamic instability, whichever occurs first. For the first response, experts agreed on immediate administration of uterotonics and tranexamic acid, examination to determine aetiology and rapid initiation of cause-specific responses. In the postoperative phase, the experts agreed that caesarean birth-related PPH should be detected primarily via frequently monitoring the woman’s haemodynamic status and clinical signs and symptoms of internal bleeding, supplemented by cumulative blood loss assessment performed quantitatively or by visual estimation. Postoperative first response was determined to require an individualised approach.ConclusionThese agreed on proposed approaches could help improve the detection of PPH in the intraoperative and postoperative phases of caesarean birth and the first response management of intraoperative PPH. Determining how best to implement these strategies is a critical next step.
Relationship between self-psychological adjustment and post-traumatic growth in patients with lung cancer undergoing chemotherapy: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Na , Zhang Lei , Liu Yaxin , Ding Xuemei , Li Qing , Lixia Gao , Zhang Xiaoli 
Published: May 2024

ObjectivesThis study aimed to determine the potential profiles of self-psychological adjustment in patients with lung cancer undergoing chemotherapy, including sense of coherence (SOC) and positive cognitive emotion regulation (PCER). The relationship between these profiles with post-traumatic growth (PTG) and the relevant factors of self-psychological adjustment in different profiles was analysed.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingPatients with lung cancer undergoing chemotherapy in China.ParticipantsA total of 330 patients with lung cancer undergoing chemotherapy were recruited out of which 321 completed the questionnaires effectively.MethodsLatent profile analysis was used to identify self-psychological adjustment classes based on the two subscales of the Sense of Coherence Scale and Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire. One-way analysis of variance and multinomial logistic regression were performed to examine the subgroup association with characteristics and PTG.ResultsThree latent profiles of self-psychological adjustment were identified: low level (54.5%), high SOC-low PCER (15.6%) and high PCER (29.9%). The results of univariate analysis showed a significant difference in PTG scores among different self-psychological adjustment subgroups (F=11.55, p<0.001). Patients in the high-PCER group were more likely living in urban areas (OR=2.41, 95% CI 1.17 to 4.97, p=0.02), and time since cancer diagnosis was ≥6 months and <1 year (OR=3.54, 95% CI 1.3 to 9.64, p<0.001).ConclusionThis study revealed that most patients with lung cancer undergoing chemotherapy belonged to the low-level group. Three profiles are associated with PTG. There were differences in characteristics between patients treated with chemotherapy for lung cancer in the high-PCER and low-PCER groups. Thus, these profiles provide useful information for developing targeted individualised interventions based on demographic characteristics that would assist PTG in patients with lung cancer undergoing chemotherapy.
Effort–reward imbalance and sleep quality in railway locomotive stewards: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Hongjing , Xue Ying , Li Tingdong , Xu Guoxiang , Liu Xiaofeng 
Published: May 2024

ObjectiveTo assess the correlation between the effort–reward imbalance (ERI) and sleep quality among railway locomotive stewards.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingLanzhou Bureau Group, China Railway, between July and August 2022.ParticipantsRailway locomotive stewards.Primary and secondary outcome measuresSleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Scale (PSQI), categorising scores of >14 as poor, 8–14 as fair and <8 as good.ResultsA total of 5738 valid questionnaires (mean age of 30.85±6.91 years and 5730 males) were included. The response rate was 92.27%. The PSQI score was 11.52±3.95; 2304 (40.15%) respondents had good sleep quality, 1590 (27.71%) had fair sleep quality and 1844 (32.14%) had poor sleep quality. Stepwise multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that, compared with poor sleep quality, Jiayuguan Locomotive Depot workers (OR 0.775, 95% CI 0.587 to 0.971, p=0.028), electric locomotive drivers (OR 0.499, 95% CI 0.316 to 0.786, p=0.003), passenger train locomotive drivers (OR 0.209, 95% CI 1.313 to 3.337, p=0.002), working <40 hours weekly (OR 2.291, 95% CI 1.686 to 3.112, p<0.001), working 40–50 hours weekly (OR 1.602, 95% CI 1.299 to 1.977, p<0.001), senior titles (OR 0.727, 95% CI 0.570 to 0.928, p=0.010), high effort/low reward (OR 2.812, 95% CI 2.218 to 3.564, p<0.001) and low overcommitment (OR 5.848, 95% CI 4.710 to 7.261, p<0.001) were independently associated with fair sleep quality. Electric locomotive drivers (OR 0.535, 95% CI 0.364 to 0.787, p=0.001), diesel locomotive drivers (OR 0.567, 95% CI 0.348 to 0.924, p=0.023), passenger train locomotive drivers (OR 1.471, 95% CI 1.005 to 2.155, p=0.047), working <40 hours weekly (OR 1.549, 95% CI 1.196 to 2.006, p=0.001), working 40–50 hours weekly (OR 1.340, 95% CI 1.141 to 1.574, p<0.001), high school diploma or less (OR 1.448, 95% CI 1.062 to 1.975, p=0.019), high effort/low reward (OR 1.237, 95% CI 1.006 to 1.521, p=0.044), balanced effort–reward (OR 0.653, 95% CI 0.478 to 0.892, p=0.007) and low overcommitment (OR 2.553, 95% CI 2.224 to 2.931, p<0.001) were independently associated with good sleep quality.ConclusionThe results revealed an acceptable ERI and poor sleep quality among railway stewards. ERI was correlated with sleep quality. Health education, lifestyle changes and improved work schedules may help boost sleep quality and well-being among railway locomotive stewards.