bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of matrix and interface properties modified by annealing on solid particle erosion behavior of carbon fiber reinforced polyetheretherketone
Authors: Çetin Beysim , Korkusuz Orkan Baran , Özzaim Pelin , Şahin Alp Eren , Fidan Sinan , Sınmazçelik Tamer 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIn this study, various heat treatments (annealings) were applied to carbon fiber reinforced polyetheretherketone (CF/PEEK) samples at four different temperatures (185, 225, 265, and 305°C) along two different holding times (30 and 270 min). The effects of changing matrix morphology, degree of crystallinity, and fiber‐matrix interface properties on thermo‐mechanical properties were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical analysis analyzes. Also, annealed CF/PEEK samples were tested to determine solid particle erosion characteristics. It was observed that the matrix crystallinity, fiber/matrix interface properties, and tribological properties of the CF/PEEK composites changed significantly with the thermal history. There was an increase in the degree of crystallinity with the increase in annealing temperature. It was observed that the degree of crystallinity increased up to about 27% and the damping factor decreased up to about 45%. As a result of the solid particle erosion tests performed under normal impact conditions, it was determined that the formation of the transcrystalline layer formed by heat treatment adversely affected the solid particle erosion resistance of the CF/PEEK. Erosion resistance of the heat‐treated samples (having higher fiber/matrix interface) was approximately 50% lower compared to the quenched sample. While the erosion rate for quenched samples is 14.5 × 10−5 g/g, this rate rises to 26.1 × 10−5 g/g for annealed samples. In addition, surface topography was examined by means of an optical profilometry, and surface morphology was examined by means of scanning electron microscopy. These examinations confirmed the experimental results.
Vancomycin dosing in high‐intensity continuous renal replacement therapy: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Srour Nina , Lopez Chelsea , Succar Luma , Nguyen Peter 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIntroductionAn inverse relationship exists between vancomycin serum concentrations and the intensity of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), reflected through the dialysate flow rate (DFR). There remains a lack of evidence to guide initial vancomycin dosing in the setting of high‐intensity CRRT (i.e., DFR >30 mL/kg/h). Additionally, recommendations for pharmacokinetic monitoring of vancomycin have transitioned from a trough‐based to area under the curve (AUC)‐based dosing strategy to optimize efficacy and safety. Therefore, an improved understanding of the impact of CRRT intensity on AUC/MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) has the potential to enhance vancomycin dosing in this patient population.ObjectivesThe goal of this study is to evaluate current vancomycin dosing strategies and achievement of pharmacokinetic targets in patients on high‐intensity CRRT.MethodsThis was a single‐center, retrospective cohort study of adult critically ill patients admitted to Houston Methodist Hospital between May 2019 and October 2021 and received vancomycin therapy while on high‐intensity CRRT. High‐intensity CRRT was defined by a DFR that was both ≥3 L/h and >30 mL/kg/h. Depending on the initial vancomycin dosing strategy, patients were stratified into either the traditional (15 mg/kg/day) or enhanced (≥15 mg/kg/day) dosing group. The primary outcome was the percent of patients who attained steady‐state AUC24/MIC ≥400 mg*h/L at the first obtained vancomycin level in the enhanced group compared with the traditional group.ResultsA total of 125 patients were included in the final analysis, 56 in the traditional and 69 in the enhanced dosing group. The primary end point occurred in 74% and 54% of patients in the enhanced and traditional dosing groups, respectively (p = 0.029). Therapeutic vancomycin trough levels (10–20 μg/mL) were more commonly achieved in the enhanced dosing group compared with the traditional dosing group (66.7% vs. 45%, p = 0.013). As DFR rose, increasingly higher doses of vancomycin, up to 27 mg/kg/day, were required to achieve the therapeutic targets.ConclusionThis is the first study to evaluate the influence of variable CRRT intensities on vancomycin AUC/MIC. Our findings suggest that vancomycin doses of ≥15 mg/kg/day are needed to achieve early therapeutic targets in patients on high‐intensity CRRT.
Interconnection and lamination technologies towards ubiquitous integration of photovoltaics
Authors: Govaerts Jonathan , Borgers Tom , Luo Bin , Van Dyck Rik , van der Heide Arvid , Reekmans Bart , Vastmans Luc , Moors Reinoud , Doumen Geert , Tous Loic , Poortmans Jef 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIn this paper, we first give some historical background and trends in PV module technologies with a focus on the growing trend towards ‘PV everywhere’, mainly targeting improved aesthetics, dimensional freedom including curved surfaces, weight concerns and specific reliability testing. This section acts as an introductory review of the field.Then, in the following sections, we elaborate on two technological developments in this field where we are active: (i) multi‐wire interconnection and (ii) advanced encapsulation.In terms of multi‐wire interconnection, this technology offers improved aesthetics, a similar performance and dimensional freedom compared to the traditional tabbing‐stringing process, and the experiments show promising results on extended reliability testing, including thermal cycling, damp heat and humidity freeze, as well as high‐temperature storage.In terms of advanced encapsulation, we introduce our approach for curved surfaces using a double‐membrane laminator and present results on fabricating curved modules, targeting as demonstration examples on the one hand, glass–glass sunroofs, and on the other hand, lighter‐weight bonnets for automotive applications.We mix examples targeting building and automotive applications, to illustrate the variety of requirements (colours, curvature, weight, reliability, safety), although this variety within building and vehicle applications is probably as large as between them.
Factors associated with pain pressure threshold in both local and remote sites in knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Imamura Marta , Rebello‐Sanchez Ingrid , Parente Joao , Marduy Anna , Vasquez‐Avila Karen , Pacheco‐Barrios Kevin , Castelo‐Branco Luis , Simis Marcel , Battistella Linamara , Fregni Felipe 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBackgroundKnee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a prevalent condition, and its most frequent symptom is pain that often leads to disability. Pain sensitization is a core feature of KOA, and it can be measured through quantitative sensory testing protocols such as pain pressure threshold (PPT). However, there is a lack of understanding about the factors that may influence changes in PPTs in the KOA population.ObjectiveTo explore the clinical and functional factors associated with PPTs in a sample of people with chronic KOA pain and to compare models of local (knees) and remote (thenar regions) sites.DesignCross‐sectional analysis of a prospective cohort.SettingPrimary care in public institution.Participants113 adults with KOA.InterventionN/A.Main Outcome MeasuresMultivariable regression analyses evaluating demographic, clinical, and functional variables that could be associated with local and remote PPTs (main outcomes) were performed.ResultsBoth thenar region (adjusted‐R2: 0.29) and knee (adjusted‐R2: 0.45) models had the same significant negative association with being a female, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain levels (thenar: β: −0.15, p = .002; knee: β: −0.2, p < .001), and the 10‐Meter Walking Test (thenar: β: −0.05, p = .038; knee: β: −0.08, p = .004). A small significant positive association with depressive symptoms was identified in both models, which acted as a confounder for WOMAC pain and was likely affected by unmeasured confounders.ConclusionsPPTs in KOA pain are associated with functional outcomes such as the 10‐Meter Walking Test and activity‐related pain intensity; thus more disability is associated with smaller pain thresholds. Similarity between models may suggest central sensitization.
Immunohistochemical and histopathological validation of 18F‐PSMA‐1007 PET/CT for intraprostatic cancerous lesions
Authors: Heetman Joris G. , Hermsen Rick , Exterkate Leonie , Küsters‐Vandevelde Heidi V. N. , Brouwer Lenneke J. M. , Somford Diederik M. , van den Bergh Roderick C. N. , van Basten Jean‐Paul A. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIntroductionProstate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is overexpressed in prostate cancer (PCa). In this study, we aim to immunohistochemically and histopathological validate the fluorine‐18 (18F)‐PSMA‐1007 positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for intraprostatic PCa lesions.MethodsBetween February 2019 and October 2020, patients with biopsy‐proven, treatment‐naïve intermediate‐to‐high‐risk PCa undergoing an 18F‐PSMA‐1007 PET/CT before robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) were prospectively enrolled. For all PCa lesions found on whole‐mount histopathology, location, size, International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade group (GG), and immune reactive score (IRS) were assessed after PSMA staining. ISUP GG ≥ 3 PCa was defined as clinically significant (cs) PCa. All lesions were matched on PSMA PET/CT and the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) was measured.ResultsA total of 125 lesions were analyzed in the 80 RARP specimens, of which 49 (40%) were csPCa and 76 (60%) non‐csPCa. Linear multivariable regressions showed that an increase in SUVmax significantly correlated with a higher ISUP GG (p values between 0.021 and 0.001) and a higher IRS (p = 0.017). Logistic multivariable regression showed that csPCa significantly correlated with a higher SUVmax (odds ratio, OR: 1.17 [95% confidence interval, CI: 1.04–1.21, p = 0.005]), an increase in tumor length (OR: 1.05 [95% CI 1.01–1.10, p = 0.020]) and a higher IRS (OR; 1.24 [95% CI 1.07–1.47, p = 0.006]). A SUVmax threshold of 4 would have resulted in one (2%) missed lesion with csPCa.ConclusionThis prospective study revealed that 18F‐PSMA‐1007 PET/CT SUVmax is correlated with the ISUP GG and IRS, and thereby could be a tool to characterize intraprostatic PCa lesions.
Structure of a transmission blocking antibody in complex with Outer surface protein A from the Lyme disease spirochete, Borreliella burgdorferi
Authors: Rudolph Michael J. , Davis Simon A. , Haque H. M. Emranul , Ejemel Monir , Cavacini Lisa A. , Vance David J. , Willsey Graham G. , Piazza Carol Lyn , Weis David D. , Wang Yang , Mantis Nicholas J. 
Published: July 2023

Abstract319‐44 is a human monoclonal antibody capable of passively protecting mice against tick‐mediated infection with Borreliella burgdorferi, the bacterial genospecies responsible for Lyme disease in North America. In vitro, 319‐44 has complement‐dependent borreliacidal activity and spirochete agglutinating properties. Here, we report the 2.2 Å‐resolution crystal structure of 319‐44 Fab fragments in complex with Outer surface protein A (OspA), the ~30 kDa lipoprotein that was the basis of the first‐generation Lyme disease vaccine approved in the United States. The 319‐44 epitope is focused on OspA β‐strands 19, 20, and 21, and the loops between β‐strands 16‐17, 18‐19, and 20‐21. Contact with loop 20‐21 explains competition with LA‐2, the murine monoclonal antibody used to estimate serum borreliacidal activities in the first‐generation Lyme disease vaccine clinical trials. A high‐resolution B‐cell epitope map of OspA will accelerate structure‐based design of second generation OspA‐based vaccines.
Investigation of the GnRH antagonist degarelix isomerization in biological matrices
Authors: Ferrazzano Lucia , Tolomelli Alessandra , Guryanov Ivan , Macis Marco , Abel Ulrich , Ricci Antonio , Cabri Walter 
Published: July 2023

AbstractOne of the main objectives of peptide drug design is the improvement of peptide pharmacokinetics with maintaining biological activity, which can be achieved by the complex modifications of the primary structure of the peptides. However, these changes often lead to the formation of peculiar impurities in the peptide drugs and their metabolites, which require the development of advanced analytical methods to properly assess their content. Here, we investigated the degradation of the potent long‐acting GnRH antagonist degarelix in various biologic media by the tailor‐made HPLC method, which allows precise determination of 5‐Aph(Hyd)‐degarelix isomer, an impurity found in the degarelix active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) during its manufacturing. Unexpectedly, we discovered a rapid and irreversible conversion of degarelix API into the corresponding hydantoin isomer in serum, suggesting that this impurity can be also a potential drug metabolite in vivo. This finding underlines the importance of the development of more accurate and performing analytical techniques to correctly characterize the chemical composition of the manufactured drugs and their behavior under physiological conditions.
Why the term “operational discipline” is not helpful, and better options for instilling positive process safety culture
Authors: Olsen Jody E. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractLanguage matters for effective leadership and culture. And the language embedded in the term “operational discipline” is not helpful. This term is inconsistent with decades of learning on cause analysis, systems thinking, and human performance. Humans typically do not fail because they are not disciplined enough. Failures occur for other reasons that stem from the systems within which the humans are working. For many people, the term “discipline” has a negative or punitive connotation. And the term “operational” focuses the spotlight on operations. The two terms taken together may imply to some people that willful operator deviations are the root cause of some incidents. Failures typically involve a range of management processes and functional groups. Thorough failure analysis can identify systemic causes, and follow‐up corrective actions may be targeted at the upstream sources. Healthy culture requires a positive, inclusive, and curious environment that seeks to continuously learn and improve without casting blame. Even if the term “operational discipline” is not intended to place blame, the choice of words defeats that aspiration. When seeking to improve process safety culture, choose language that supports a positive learning environment of ownership and empowerment by the workforce. And support those words through management actions.
Hazard evaluation and safety assessment for subsea HIPPS
Authors: Ganaadhiban Murugesan , Arunshankar Jayabalan , Venkataraman Ramamirtham , Srinivasan Krishnamoorthy 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThe safety practice of depressurization of pipelines by flare system in the hydrocarbon industry is not sufficient for pipelines in the subsea production process. There are many challenges in the subsea production process due to multiphase fluid flow. Failure of a process to arrive at its safe state could result in fatality, significant property damage, and can lead to a disastrous environment. The safe state of a process is identified through the consequence of hazard and risk assessments at critical modes of operations. A well‐designed safety instrumented function (SIF) can prevent escalation of minor malfunction into an accident. The prime objective of this work is to obtain the required safety integrity level (SIL) for subsea High Integrity Pressure Protection System (HIPPS). Based on hazard assessment (HAZOP) and risk assessment (LOPA), SIL for SIF is recommended, and finally through reliability calculations, the SIL for subsea HIPPS is determined.
Praeruptorin C alleviates cognitive impairment in type 2 diabetic mice through restoring PI3K/AKT/GSK3β pathway
Authors: Li Long‐Fei , Gao Ying , Xu Yuan , Su Dan‐Jie , Yang Qi , Liu An , Wang Sai‐Ying , Tang Xiu‐Ling , Zhao Jun , Luo Li , Yan Tao , Wu Yu‐Mei , Liu Shui‐Bing , Zhao Ming‐Gao , Yang Le 
Published: July 2023

AbstractDiabetic encephalopathy is a common consequence of diabetes mellitus that causes cognitive dysfunction and neuropsychiatric disorders. Praeruptorin C (Pra‐C) from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Peucedanum praeruptorum Dunn. is a potential antioxidant and neuroprotective agent. This study was conducted to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of Pra‐C on diabetic cognitive impairment. A novel object recognition test and the Morris water maze test were performed to assess the behavioral performance of mice. Electrophysiological recordings were made to monitor synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. A protein–protein interaction network of putative Pra‐C targets was constructed, and molecular docking simulations were performed to predict the potential mechanisms of the action of Pra‐C. Protein expression levels were detected by western blotting. Pra‐C administration significantly lowered body weight and fasting blood glucose levels and alleviated learning and memory deficits in type 2 diabetic mice. Network pharmacology and molecular docking results suggested that Pra‐C affects the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway. Western blot analysis confirmed significant increases in phosphorylated PI3K, AKT, and GSK3β levels in vivo and in vitro upon Pra‐C administration. Pra‐C alleviated cognitive impairment in type 2 diabetic mice by activating PI3K/AKT/GSK3β pathway.
Ising Hamiltonians for Constrained Combinatorial Optimization Problems and the Metropolis‐Hastings Warm‐Starting Algorithm
Authors: Li Hui‐Min , Liang Jin‐Min , Wang Zhi‐Xi , Fei Shao‐Ming 
Published: July 2023

AbstractQuantum approximate optimization algorithm (QAOA) is a promising variational quantum algorithm for combinatorial optimization problems. However, the implementation of QAOA is limited due to the requirement that the problems be mapped to Ising Hamiltonians and the nonconvex optimization landscapes. Although the Ising Hamiltonians for many NP hard problems have been obtained, a general method to obtain the Ising Hamiltonians for constrained combinatorial optimization problems (CCOPs) has not yet been investigated. In this paper, a general method is introduced to obtain the Ising Hamiltonians for CCOPs and the Metropolis‐Hastings warm‐starting algorithm for QAOA is presented which can provably converge to the global optimal solutions. The effectiveness of this method is demonstrated by tackling the minimum weight vertex cover (MWVC) problem, the minimum vertex cover (MVC) problem, and the maximal independent set problem as examples. The Ising Hamiltonian for the MWVC problem is obtained first time by using this method. The advantages of the Metropolis‐Hastings warm‐starting algorithm presented here is numerically analyzed through solving 30 randomly generated MVC cases with 1‐depth QAOA.
Urban entrepreneurship, public management and sustainability nexus: Evidence from developing countries
Authors: Kpegba Silas Apealete , Oppong Clement , Atchulo Abukari Salifu 
Published: July 2023

AbstractPurposeThis study examines the nexus of urban entrepreneurship, public management and sustainability within the context of developing countries.Design/Methodology/ApproachThe study adopted a quantitative and descriptive approach, using data from the World Development Indicators (WDI) and the World Bank Entrepreneurship database for 12 developing countries from 2013 to 2018. The analysis was carried out using a panel regression model with fixed effect.FindingsThe results show a significant relationship between urban entrepreneurship and economic sustainability; and also, a significant relationship between public management and economic sustainability among developing African countries.Practical ImplicationsThis implies that developing countries need to offer incentives to the private sector to encourage entrepreneurial activities which will subsequently improve economic sustainability.Originality/ValueThis study adds to literature by examining the nexus of urban entrepreneurship, public management and sustainability among developing countries in a single model using quantitative approach.
Significance tests for covariates in the diagnostic accuracy index of a biomarker against a continuous gold standard
Authors: Wu Mixia , Sun Xian , Liu Aiyi , Peng Chenchen , Li Zhaohai 
Published: July 2023

SummaryReceiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve is a popular tool to describe and compare the diagnostic accuracy of biomarkers when a binary‐scale gold standard is available. However, there are many examples of diagnostic tests whose gold standards are continuous. Hence, Several extensions of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve are proposed to evaluate the diagnostic potential of biomarkers when the gold standard is continuous‐scale. Moreover, in evaluating these biomarkers, it is often necessary to consider the effects of covariates on the diagnostic accuracy of the biomarker of interest. Covariates may include subject characteristics, expertise of the test operator, test procedures or aspects of specimen handling. Applying the covariate adjustment to the case that the gold standard is continuous is challenging and has not been addressed in the literature. To fill the gap, we propose two general testing frameworks to account for the covariates effect on diagnostic accuracy. Simulation studies are conducted to compare the proposed tests. Data from a study that assessed three types of imaging modalities with the purpose of detecting neoplastic colon polyps and cancers are used to illustrate the proposed methods.
Chinese cross‐border mergers and acquisitions: How communication practices impact integration outcomes
Authors: Wang Jean , Schweizer Lars 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThis study provides an empirical investigation on how communication practices impact the post‐acquisition integration outcomes, in the context of Chinese cross‐border mergers and acquisitions (CBMAs). We tailored our assessment to reflect communication practices during Chinese CBMA integration. The integration outcomes are measured by organizational commitment and strategic performance improvement. Using a data collected via survey from global executives and middle managers, we find that communication accuracy, channel efficiency, and overseas business management department positively impact organizational commitment. Moreover, inter‐organizational trust mediates the effect of communication accuracy on organizational commitment, and communication officer on organizational commitment. In addition, we find that the language barrier of the Chairman negatively impacts strategic performance improvement. Moreover, acquisition experience, business relatedness, industrial investors, private‐owned investors, and management consultant all positively affect strategic performance improvement. However, middle managers negatively impact the integration outcomes.
Pneumocoelom and secondary lung collapse treatment in a stranded loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, Israel
Authors: Morick Danny , Levy Yaniv , Davidovich Nadav , Wosnick Natascha , Zemah‐Shamir Ziv , Tchernov Dan , Aizenberg Itzhak 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThis study describes a case of lung collapse and its successful repair in a stranded loggerhead sea turtle, utilising coelomic gas aspiration via the prefemoral region. This animal presented unbuoyant swimming, was diagnosed via computed tomography scanning, treated successfully and returned to the sea following a 6‐week rehabilitation period.