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Introduction Pictorial health warning labels (HWLs) on waterpipe (WP) tobacco packages represent a better strategy for communicating the health risks associated with WP use and promoting quit intention than text-only. However, the mechanism by which these warnings lead to higher intentions to quit remains unknown. Aims and Methods This study explores how pictorial warnings versus text-only induces higher quit intention among a sample of young adult WP smokers in Lebanon. An online randomized cross-over experimental study was conducted in August 2021 among 276 young adult WP smokers who were exposed to two conditions: pictorial HWLs and text-only warnings on WP tobacco packages in random order. After each image, participants completed post-exposure assessments of health communication outcomes (eg, attention and negative affect). Using serial and parallel mediation analysis, we examined the role of attention, negative affect, cognitive elaboration, and perceived harm in mediating the relationship between exposure to HWLs and intention to quit. Results Using serial mediation, exposure to pictorial warnings versus text-only was found to affect intention to quit through the following pathways: attention and negative affect, which accounted for 17.28% of the total effect, and through negative affect and cognitive elaboration, which accounted for 21.53% of the total effect. Results of parallel mediation showed that the indirect effect pathways via negative affect (β = 0.063; [95% bootstrap CI = 0.004 to 0.149]) and cognitive elaboration (0.047; [0.001 to 0.114]) were statistically significant. Conclusions The findings call on designing and implementing attention-grabbing, emotionally evocative, and cognitively persuasive pictorial warnings in Lebanon and other countries to curb WP tobacco smoking. Implications This is among the first experimental studies looking at multiple mediators underlying the effect of exposure to pictorial HWLs on intention to quit in a sample of current WP smokers in Lebanon. The findings showed that using attention-grabbing, emotionally evocative, and persuasive pictures with a clear textual warning is crucial to maximizing the impact of implementing WP-HWLs regulations in Lebanon and other countries to curb WP tobacco smoking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) members have been widely used in skyscrapers and long-span bridges. Non-uniformly distributed hydration heat during curing, inadequate compaction during construction and unavoidable shrinkage and creep of mass concrete in service most likely lead to interface debonding defects between concrete core and steel tube, which has been a common concern. The development of effective non-destructive inspection methods for interface bonding condition of existing CFST members is critical. In this study, an interface debonding defect detection method based on electromechanical impedance (EMI) measurement using surface-mounted piezoelectric-lead-zirconate-titanate (PZT) sensors is proposed at first. Then, experimental study on the feasibility of the proposed approach is carried out with scaled CFST specimens with artificially mimicked interface debonding defects. EMI of surface-mounted PZT sensors at different frequency bands are measured and compared to verify the detectability of the proposed approach for the mimicked interface debonding defects. Thirdly, a multi-physics CFST-PZT coupling finite element model (FEM) with interface debonding defects is established, and EMI of surface-mounted PZT sensors at different locations is simulated. The influence of interface debonding defects on EMI measurements is illustrated. Finally, a blind inspection on the interface bonding condition of selected CFST columns in an existing skyscraper in service using the proposed approach is carried out. Both bonding and debonding defect in the tested CFST columns are detected correctly and validated with drilling hole observation. Experimental, numerical and engineering application results show the proposed approach is effective for interface debonding detection of CFST members and sensitive to minor debonding defect of 0.3 mm in CFST members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experimental study was conducted to investigate the effect of 20% Intralipid Emulsion (ILE) treatment on Cerebral Ischemia Reperfusion Injury (CIRI) after reperfusion in acute ischemic stroke. In this experimental study, seven rats without any intervention (control group), seven rats (sham group) for which CIRI was created after the common carotid artery was ligated for 2 hours, and seven rats who were treated with 20% ILE after CIRI (CIRI + ILE group) were sacrificed after 24 hours, and histopathological findings were investigated. In rats that were not treated after CIRI, 52.7% had level-1, 32.7% had level-2. and 14.5% had level-3. histopathological findings. While 72.2% of the rats treated with ILE had level-1 and 27.8% had level-2 findings, no level-3 histopathological findings were detected in any of the rats. While no signs of coagulative necrosis, spongiosis of surrounding tissue and polymorphonuclear leukocytes were observed histopathological in any of the rats given ILE, there was no macrophages finding in 85.6% of the rats. ILE treatment also reduced the histopathological findings of eosinophilic neurons, astrogliosis, neovascularization, vascular thrombosis and mononuclear inflammatory cells. This study showed that 20% ILE treatment reduces the histopathological damage seen in cerebral ischemia and CIRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Single screw water vapor compression system was proposed and constructed, which can operate in a wide range of suction temperatures and compression ratio. • Variation of both the volumetric and isentropic efficiency with the independent variable factor were experimentally study. • Energy efficiency analysis was adopted to look for the main factors that affected the efficiency of single screw water vapor compressor. • Mathematical models of the single screw water vapor compressor were developed and optimized, to predict thermodynamic performance and optimize process. Single screw water vapor compressor has greater advantages under conditions of low suction temperature and high compression ratio, however, the current study has the following limitations: (1) the volumetric and isentropic efficiency were substituted as a fixed value into the models of compressor, (2) The suction temperature is concentrated in the medium-high region, (3) The compression ratio is concentrated in the medium-low range, which failed to accurately describe the water vapor compression process. Therefore, the relationship between the volumetric efficiency, isentropic efficiency and key characteristic parameters of compressor is studied experimentally, the mathematical models of the volume flow and compression power are established and verified by experiments, the changes of the mass flow, compression power, COP and SMER with suction temperature, discharge pressure and compression ratio are analyzed, the operation process parameters of the single-screw water vapor compressor are optimized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate evaluation of the wind convection heat transfer coefficient (hw) for solar‐based systems is essential, especially for solar desalination systems. Thermal behavior and productivity of solar stills are highly affected by the external heat loss through the glass cover. This paper describes a new experimental approach to estimate the hw on the glass cover of the conventional single‐slope solar distiller (CSS). Indoor experiments have been conducted under steady‐state conditions for a wind speed between 0 and 3 m/s. The hw has been evaluated through an energy balance performed on the distiller's glass cover. The results showed that increasing the wind speed increases the hw (from 5.64 to 31.57 W/m2 K) and enhances the distillation rate (from 5.28 to 7.61 mL/min). A new relationship for the hw was proposed for the CSS and compared with the experimental data available in the literature. The comparison shows that the obtained results are close to the data from solar systems, with a deviation ranging from 27.4% to 37%. However, a significant deviation was obtained with earlier models derived from flat plates (from 29.5% to 59%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cost of manufacturing and electricity consumption are key considerations in encouraging the adoption of solar air heaters (SAH) in sunny and low‐income areas. These parameters can have a significant impact on promoting the use of these devices. In this study, solar air heating was designed with the objective of achieving the highest possible efficiency/cost ratio. It is a corrugated channel SAH whose structure is equipped with two barriers perforated with a sufficient number of holes for a good airflow distribution. A new model was developed to evaluate the qualitative parameters that describe the thermos‐energetic behavior of a heating system. These parameters were measured using experimental data obtained under real operating conditions. The thermal model assumes a uniform temperature for the glass, absorber, and insulation of the collector, while the temperature of the circulating air is assumed to vary linearly along the collector. To ensure that these assumptions were valid, the collector was cut into a number of 0.1 m sections in the direction of flow. By comparing the numerical results with the experimental data, the model was validated and then used to calculate the temperature profiles of the different elements of the collector, as well as to estimate the impact of certain operational parameters on its thermal performance. Relative percentage error values, between the numerical and the experimental results, of 1.7517%, 1.0750%, 0.8577%, 2.2371%, and 2.3637% for absorber plate temperature, outlet airflow temperature, useful power, thermal, and effective efficiencies, respectively, are recorded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) members have been widely used in civil engineering due to their advanced mechanical properties. However, internal defects such as the concrete core voids and interface debonding in CFST structures are likely to weaken their load-carrying capacity and stiffness, which affects the safety and serviceability. Visualizing the inner defects of the concrete cores in CFST members is a critical requirement and a challenging task due to the obvious difference in the material mechanical parameters of the concrete core and steel tube in CFST members. In this study, a curved ray theory-based travel time tomography (TTT) with a least square iterative linear inversion algorithm is first introduced to quantitatively identify and visualize the sizes and positions of the concrete core voids in CFST members. Secondly, a numerical investigation of the influence of different parameters on the inversion algorithm for the defect imaging of CFST members, including the effects of the model weighting matrix, weighting factor and grid size on the void's imaging quality and accuracy, is carried out. Finally, an experimental study on six CFST specimens with mimicked concrete core void defects is performed in a laboratory and the mimicked defects are visualized. The results demonstrate that TTT can identify the sizes and positions of the concrete core void defects in CFST members efficiently with the use of optimal parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim. Nowadays, the reconstruction of large and complex defects with keystone perforator island flaps (KPIF) has gained popularity in plastic and reconstructive surgery. The keystone perforator island flap was described as a curvilinear shaped trapezoidal design flap, with two V-Y advancement flaps endto-side. It is a multiperforator advancement flap, based on multiple fasciocutaneous or musculocutaneous perforators, described by Behan in 2003. These flaps have a simple harvest technique, an easy-to-implement design, and they are time and cost-saving. Their blood supply lends a versatile and robust character, with less complications. Nonetheless, their biomechanical properties and effectiveness are unclear, the wound-closure tension-reducing effect is not well documented in existing literature. The present study aims to investigate the wound closure tensionreducing effect of type I, type IIA, type Sidney Melanoma Unit I (SMU) and type SMU II KPIFs. The main purpose of this study was to clarify the tension-reducing effect of the KPIF technique, which can contribute to the understanding of the biomechanical benefits of the KPIF. Methods. This is an experimental, in vivo study, based on twelve white race porcine models (PIC-FII-377), as their anatomy and wound healing process is very similar to that of humans. In this study, 42 wounds that could not be closed by primary wound closure, known as 'unclosable' elliptical defects, were created in six different anatomical regions. The criteria used for not achieving primary wound closure were the breaking of 0 nylon suture or the edges of the wound. Each defect was closed with different types of keystone perforator island flap: type I, type IIA, type Sydney Melanoma Unit I and type Sydney Melanoma Unit II. Keystone perforator island flaps were used in 42 cases. Intraoperative tissue tension was measured by an AXIS FB50, 50 N force gauge tensiometer. In all cases a wide elliptical excision was performed for the primary defect. Before reconstruction, tissue tension was measured across the widest point of the elliptical primary defect. Skin incision was performed for the first flap, without division of deep fascia. After preparing first flap, tension was measured at the widest point of the wound. Furthermore, deep fascia for the second flap was divided, tissue tension across the widest point of the primary defect was measured. Finally, tension was measurement across the widest point of the donor-site after closure of the defect-side flap and V-Y closure of either end of keystone perforator island flap. Results. In this study were included 12 porcine model (PIC-FII-377). A number of 42 keystone perforator island flaps were performed in this study, in six different anatomical regions, ranging between 3.3 x 12 cm and 16 x 30 cm. All elliptical defects were unclosable, with varying sizes ranging between 2 x 4 cm and 8 x 20 cm. The mean tension that was required to close all wounds with primary closure initially was 24.51 N ± 10.73 N. After using a type I KPIF a tension decrease of -7.04 N ± 4.93 N was seen, in the case of type IIA KPIF the tension decreased to -12.43 N± 5.63 N. Furthermore, after reconstruction with type SMU I KPIF the tension decreased to -7.38N ± 5.21N. After using a type SMU II KPIF a tension decrease of -10.52 N± 5.74 N was seen. Conclusions. The main purpose of this study was to clarify the tension-reducing effect of the KPIF technique, which can contribute to the understanding of the biomechanical benefits of the KPIF. The outcomes of the present study suggest that type I, type IIA, type SMU I, and SMU II of keystone perforator island flaps have a significant tension-reducing effects, especially the technique that involves the division of the deep fascia. The results of this experimental research thoroughly explain the benefits of these flaps. The effectiveness of the flap and doubts on biomechanical properties have not been answered so far. It will encourage more plastic surgeons to use the flap, especially given its proven benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to determine the load capacity of composite columns subjected to axial compressive load. The subjects of the study were two types of columns with a rectangular cross-section, with different edge lengths. The tested columns had a closed cross-section. Four different fiber arrangements were analyzed for both cross-sections studied. The research was realized using interdisciplinary methods to determine the mechanism of damage to the composite material, with particular emphasis on damage initiation and propagation. Experimental tests were realized on a testing machine, the analysis was carried out with an acoustic emission system, and image analysis using visual assessment system of deflections of the walls of the structure. In addition, a number of numerical analyses were realized based on advanced modeling techniques for fiber-reinforced composites. A comparative analysis of both quantitative and qualitative results is presented for both analyses. The innovation of the presented research lies in the development of a custom method for modeling structures made of composite material with special emphasis on the failure phase. This will allow to accurately reflect the modeling of thin-walled structures with closed cross-section subjected to loading in a complex stress state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental study of reinforced concrete beams without stirrups under impact: performance evaluation and structural response Experiments on reinforced concrete beams without stirrups are often utilized as a simplified basis to calibrate numerical models of reinforced concrete slabs. This paper details an experimental study on the behavior of reinforced concrete beams without stirrups subjected to impact loading. For this study, the 11‐meter‐high drop tower at the Otto Mohr Laboratory of TU Dresden was used to accelerate a cylindrical impactor with a diameter of 100 mm. Compressed air accelerated the impactor to velocities between 2.7 m/s and 25.8 m/s. The impactor masses were 14.22 kg and 21.66 kg, respectively. Data on impactor and support forces, displacements, and accelerations were collected. Digital image correlation supplemented the measurements. The study revealed that the behavior of the beams exhibited different failure modes depending on the impactor velocity and mass. The shear cracks started to form at impactor velocities of approximately 11 m/s, corresponding to the lighter impactor's kinetic energy of 860 J. Furthermore, the formation of a punching cone near the loading point at impactor velocities of around 22 m/s was observed. These findings provide valuable insights for designing and thoroughly assessing the performance of shear‐deficient reinforced concrete beams under impact loading. The results serve as a foundation for enhancing the precision and reliability of numerical models, facilitating further investigations into complex structural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives We investigated whether ageist attitudes, aging anxiety, and emotional reactions to older adults differ based on Alzheimer's disease (AD) diagnosis, older adult gender, and participant gender, as well as their interactions. Research Design and Methods Using an experimental design, 291 participants (176 men, 115 women; 19–55 years) were randomly assigned to read 1 of 4 descriptions of an older adult that varied cognitive health and gender. Measures of ageist attitudes, aging anxiety, and emotional reactions to the older adult were completed online. Results Relative to a cognitively intact older adult, an older adult with AD evoked less ageist attitudes, less aging anxiety, more compassion, and less emotional distance. A significant interaction between older adult gender and participant gender indicated women felt greater emotional distance from an older adult man than an older adult woman, while men showed no significant difference. Discussion and Implications The more positive emotions and less ageist responses to an older adult with AD could present as paternalistic and diminish older adults' agency. Women may prioritize shared gender identity over age, which has implications for caregivers and health professionals working with older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We developed an augmented reality technology‐based endotracheal aspiration simulation tool (the AR tool) consisting of three modes: a mode for nursing students to learn endotracheal aspiration by themselves (learning mode); a mode for repeated practice (practice mode); and a mode for confirmation testing (test mode). This study aimed to compare the learning outcomes of the AR tool with traditional training mannequins and identify potential uses and improvements of the AR tool. Methods: We invited students, and faculty members from the three universities who agreed to cooperate in conducting this study. Fifty‐four students and nine faculty members agreed to participate in this study. The students were divided into two groups. One group was to study with the AR tool and the other group was to study with the traditional half‐body training mannequin for suction. The students in both groups were asked to demonstrate endotracheal aspiration on another full‐body type training mannequin which could be used as a patient with a tracheostomy (Skill test). Group interviews with faculty members focused on the topic of the AR tool's potential use in nursing education and improvement needed. Results: There was little significant difference in the skill test results of endotracheal aspiration of students in both groups. The students and faculty members both expressed an interest in the AR tool. They said it was suitable for self‐study of endotracheal aspiration. Conclusions: This AR tool is an effective teaching tool for learning the sequence of endotracheal suctioning, although there are some areas that need improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the flexural behavior of hollow concrete beams reinforced with GFRP bars with longitudinal openings of different sizes and shapes. A total of seven beams were tested, including two solid GFRP-RC beams, four hollow GFRP-RC beams with longitudinal holes accounting for between 6 and 15% of the total cross-sectional area, and one hollow conventional steel-RC beam with a longitudinal hole of 9% of the total area. The beams were tested in flexure, and the results in terms of cracking and the ultimate loads, strains in steel and concrete, and failure modes were reported. The circular cavity performed slightly better than the square cavity, with a 3.8% higher cracking load and 4.5% higher ultimate load for the same area and location. In addition, an analytical study of the flexural capacity of the hollow beams was developed. It was found that the proposed analytical model predicted the cracking and ultimate load of the tested hollow GFRP-RC beams with good agreement. Finally, a detailed parametric study was conducted to investigate the effects of several key factors, including the size and location of the holes, as well as the concrete grade and the reinforcement ratio. The results indicated that the position of the holes had a significant effect on the behavior of the hollow GFRP-RC beams. The parametric study showed that the compressive strength of the concrete was the most influential factor on the flexural capacity of the beams, while the GFRP reinforcement ratio had a minor effect on the cracking load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the problem of freezing damage in cold-region tunnels, this study proposed a rubber airbag interlayered composite lining system, and tested its performance of buffering, pressure adjustment, waterproofing, and heat preservation by simulating a low-temperature environment in an artificial freezing chamber. The experiment results show that the frost-heaving force exerted on the lining can always be lower than 1.69 kPa by constantly adjusting the airbag pressure, and the maximum frost-heaving force can reach 28.25 kPa without the airbag. In addition, the airbag also has good waterproof performance. Finally, the airbag can significantly improve the temperature field of the surrounding rock and reduce the freezing depth (6.75 cm < 17.25 cm). The insulation effect of the airbag is positively correlated with its thickness and negatively correlated with the thermal conductivity of the filling gas. The insulation effect of CO2 is better than that of air. The rubber airbag interlayered composite lining system provides a new scheme for freezing damage control in cold-region tunnels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposed to use the impinging jets mixing process to improve the quality of residential heating and air conditioning. The main objective is to meet the requirements of occupants in terms of thermal comfort and air quality by proposing an optimal solution for the thermal homogenization improvement in the rooms by changing of the diffusers geometry and their arrangement in the ventilation and air-conditioning devices in blowing systems. This study involves both experimental and numerical studies of a three diffusers configurations composed of four peripheral jet with similar geometries and a central jet with a different geometry. All the configurations consist of four equidistant peripheral swirling jets, only the central jet that makes the difference between them. The configuration 1 includes a swirling central jet, on the other hand a circular central jet for the configuration 2 and finally a lobed central jet for configuration 3. The velocity and temperature distributions of the three configurations are investigated experimentally and numerically. Experimentally, the multifunction thermo-anemometer have been used to measure flow temperature and velocity. The dynamic and temperature features are more radially spread and get better homogeneity in configuration 3 and this is due to the energy distribution on the radial plane, which is relatively better than configuration 1 and configuration 2. The second part deals with numerical predictions of the dynamics and thermal fields of the three configurations considered. The study was realized using a RANS-based turbulence model. The numerical results are in reasonable agreement with our experiments for the three configurations. With this study, detailed information on the structure of the resulting flow is very useful to deepen the understanding of the physics of jet interaction and to validate turbulence models. The turbulence simulation is realized by the k-ω-SST model. This model gives a satisfactorily predicts the axial drop in velocity and temperature over the entire study range, demonstrating its ability to handle the interaction between swirling and lobe jets. Our results show that the geometry of the central diffuser is essential. This allows the axial velocity to decrease faster than configurations 1 and 2. This increases lateral diffusion, resulting in better homogenization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, flat plate solar collectors (FPSC) were studied due to their simplicity, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness. The study focused on comparing FPSC thermal performance using CuO/H2O nanofluids. Experiments were conducted over three months during the Iraqi weather conditions (January, February, and March) with carefully selected nanoparticle concentrations. Data was collected from 9 A.M. to 3 P.M., using various mass flow rates (ranging from 0.003 to 0.076 kg/s). Results showed a direct correlation between temperature and nanoparticle concentrations, with the highest outlet temperature (50 °C) observed at 3 P.M. for 1% CuO-water nanofluid. Notably, at 1 P.M. in March, the 1% CuO-water nanofluid exhibited a 32% increase in collector thermal efficiency, surpassing pure water by 11.3%. This would improve the performance of FPSC by achieving higher efficiency increments. These improvements were attributed to the unique physical properties of nanoparticles, their increased surface area, and higher thermal conductivity. The study determined that the optimum nanofluid concentration for superior collector efficiency was 1%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Hypothesis: Experimental provocation studies have yielded important insights in migraine pathophysiology. Levcromakalim has been previously shown to induce migraine-like attacks with and without aura. In this study, we aim to further explore the migraine aura-inducing potential of levcromakalim. Methods: In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over study, 27 adult participants with migraine with aura received intravenous infusions of levcromakalim and saline. Headache, aura and associated symptoms were evaluated for 24 hours following administration of the study drug. The primary endpoint was occurrence of migraine-like attacks with or without aura in the 24-hour observation period. Results: Thirteen participants developed migraine-like attacks on the active day only (P = 0.0098), and four participants developed aura on the active day only (P = 0.68). The median time to onset of migraine-like headache was three hours, and the median time to onset of aura was 27.5 minutes. Conclusion/Interpretation: Our findings affirm the potent migraine-inducing effect of levcromakalim. We observed a lower induction-rate of migraine aura than previously reported. Further studies are warranted to identify predictors of migraine aura following levcromakalim. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04905654 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrene, a renowned aromatic hydrocarbon, continues to captivate researchers due to its versatile properties and potential applications across various scientific domains. Among its derivatives, bromopyrenes stand out for their significance in synthetic chemistry, materials science, and environmental studies. The strategic functionalisation of pyrene at non-K region and nodal positions is crucial for expanding its utility, allowing for diverse functionalisation strategies. Bromo-substituted precursors serve as vital intermediates in synthetic routes; however, the substitution pattern of bromoderivatives significantly impacts their subsequent functionalisation and properties, posing challenges in synthesis and purification. Understanding the distinct electronic structure of pyrene is pivotal, dictating the preferential electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions at specific positions. Despite the wealth of literature, contradictions and complexities persist in synthesising suitably substituted bromopyrenes due to the unpredictable nature of substitution reactions. Building upon historical precedents, this study provides a comprehensive overview of bromine introduction in pyrene derivatives, offering optimised synthesis conditions based on laboratory research. Specifically, the synthesis of mono-, di-, tri-, and tetrabromopyrene isomers at non-K positions (1-, 3-, 6-, 8-) and nodal positions (2-, 7-) is systematically explored. By elucidating efficient synthetic methodologies and reaction conditions, this research contributes to advancing the synthesis and functionalisation strategies of pyrene derivatives, unlocking new possibilities for their utilisation in various fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of the ferroptosis-related gene glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) in oncology has been extensively investigated. However, the clinical implications of GPX4 in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) remain unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic impact of GPX4 and its underlying molecular mechanisms in patients with ICC. Fifty-seven patients who underwent surgical resection for ICC between 2010 and 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Based on the immunohistochemistry, patients were divided into GPX4 high (n  = 15) and low (n  = 42) groups, and clinical outcomes were assessed. Furthermore, the roles of GPX4 in cell proliferation, migration and gene expression were analyzed in ICC cell lines in vitro and in vivo. The results from clinical study showed that GPX4 high group showed significant associations with high SUVmax on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (≥8.0, P  = 0.017), multiple tumors (P  = 0.004), and showed glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) high expression with a trend toward significance (P  = 0.053). Overall and recurrence-free survival in the GPX4 high expression group were significantly worse than those in the GPX4 low expression group (P  = 0.038 and P  < 0.001, respectively). In the experimental study, inhibition of GPX4 attenuated cell proliferation and migration in ICC cell lines. Inhibition of GPX4 also decreased the expression of glucose metabolism-related genes, such as GLUT1 or HIF1α. Mechanistically, these molecular changes are regulated in Akt–mechanistic targets of rapamycin axis. In conclusion, this study suggested the pivotal value of GPX4 serving as a prognostic marker for patients with ICC. Furthermore, GPX4 can mediate glucose metabolism of ICC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A charitable organisation, responding to the internet's increasing role in individuals' lives, use online crowdfunding platforms to solicit monetary donations. But due to the inherent uncertainties of online environments associated with risks such as privacy breaches, information asymmetry, the misuse of donated money, and fraudulent activities, building trust between the fundraiser and potential donors is a key issue. This study explores whether and how crowdfunding website features to build the trust of Generation Y (Gen Y) in donating online. This study, developing a multi-construct trust model, examined the impact of the core elements of cognitive and affective trust on potential Gen Y donors' attitudes and donation intentions. The study employed a vignette-based experiment using a 2 X 2 X 2 between-subjects design for testing the causal inferences. A total of eight webpage vignettes were designed by manipulating three factors related to the design features of a donation-based crowdfunding platform i.e. credential information, visual & interactive communication, and narrative style. The experiment data was collected from 233 Indian Gen Y participants. The hypothesised relationships were tested using multivariate analysis techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased rainfall in summer induces warming and humidification of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, significantly affecting the temperature boundaries and cooling effects of the crushed-rock embankment (CRE). The crucial issue of quantitatively characterizing the hydrothermal changes and the cooling effects of CRE has not been considered in previous research. Therefore, an experimental study on the open crushed-rock layer (CRL) under rainfall infiltration was conducted. Based on the freezing and thawing indices and heat budget of the underground layer, the influence of summer rainfall on the cooling effect of open CRL was evaluated. The results showed that the periodic average temperature of the underground layer first decreased to negative values and then increased to positive values affected by summer rainfall. The freezing and thawing indices and their ratio gradually decreased. The cooling effect of open CRL was weakened, with a maximum decrease of 15.20%. After summer rainfall, the volumetric water content and heat flux of the underground layer increased sharply and then decreased rapidly, and the maximum increases for the peak values were 28.8% and 88.81 W/m2, respectively. The average volumetric water content for each cycle gradually increased and reached saturation. Meanwhile, heat absorption gradually increased, and the heat release of the underground layer first increased and then decreased with the cumulative rainfall. The large amount of latent heat released by the water–ice phase change was a key factor for the degradation of the cooling effect of open CRL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of the heavy-duty escalator truss greatly affects the stability and service life of the whole escalator system, and the manufacturing cost of truss structure accounts for more than 1/5. Thus, how to design the truss structure reasonably is a pivotal issue drawing the attention of numerous engineers and researchers. In this work, the experimental research of heavy-duty escalators under full load conditions were performed in terms of the end restraints, the docking port clearances, and the deflection. Based on the experimental results, the three-dimensional simulation model of truss structure was created, and the influences of various factors such as the internal chamfer of truss member, the lower deviation of truss member, the dead weight of escalator, and the pretension force of each bolt at the docking port were analyzed and quantified. Finally, the finite element model which can almost completely characterize the actual structure was obtained with slight difference. The conclusions drawn in this work provide the basis for the efficient design, correct simulation, low cost production and rapid installation of the heavy-duty escalator truss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the formation mechanism of the mud-inclusion-type underground debris flows of natural caving underground mines. The characteristics of fine moraine particles flowing through the coarse-grained ore bed were used to analyze the formation process of mud inclusions in the caving ore bed through a physical model test. Based on the movement behavior of the mud inclusions of moraine in the caving ore bed, a formation-mechanism generalized model of underground debris flows with mud inclusions was established. The model was used to examine the formation mechanism of mud-inclusion-type underground debris flows in natural caving. The results showed that the fine moraine particles had good cross-flow characteristics in the process of drawing coarse-grained ore. The accumulation of fine moraine in the ore bed was a prerequisite for the formation of mud inclusions, and the fluid inclusions were formed by a mixture of the particles with the infiltrated water. When mud inclusions in moraine are affected by many factors, such as ore-drawing vibrations, blasting vibrations, and groundwater, the inclusions undergo multiple migration–stop–migration cycles, resulting in separation or fusion. However, the inclusions are released along the optimal random pore path to the outlet, forming a certain scale of underground debris flows accidents. The accuracy and reliability of the formation mechanism were verified through geophysical explorations based on the equivalent inverse flux transient electromagnetic method. This study not only broadens the research on debris flow, but also provides theoretical guidance for the prevention and control of underground debris flows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Current scientific evidence has pointed out the relevance of hemostatic products for improving clinical outcomes in liver trauma, including increased survival rates and reductions in bleeding-related complications. The purpose of this study was to compare the use of the gelatin-thrombin flowable (Flowable) versus the standard technique of Packing in a new experimental liver injury model. Methods: Twenty-four swine were prospectively randomized to receive either Flowable or standard packing technique. We used a novel severe liver injury model, in which the middle and left suprahepatic veins were selectively injured, causing an exsanguinating hemorrhage. The main outcome measure was the percentage of lost blood volume. Results: The median total percentage of total blood volume per animal lost, from injury to minute 120, was significantly lower in the Flowable group (15.2%; interquartile range: 10.7–46.7%) than in the Packing group (64.9%; Interquartile range: 53.4–73.0%) (Hodges-Lehmann median difference: 41.1%; 95% CI: 18.9–58.0%, p = 0.0034). The 24-hour survival rate was significantly higher in the Flowable group (87.0%) than in the Packing group (0.0%) (Hazard ratio (HR) 0.08; 95% confidence interval 0.102 to 0.27; p < 0.0001). Mean-arterial pressure was significantly lower at minute 60 and 120 in the Flowable group than in the packing group (p = 0.0258 and p = 0.0272, respectively). At minute 120, hematocrit was higher in the Flowable than in the packing group (Hodges-Lehmann median difference: 5.5%; 95%CI: 1.0 to11.0, p = 0.0267). Finally, the overall-surgical-procedure was significantly shorter with Flowable than with Packing (Hodges-Lehmann median difference: 39.5 s, 95% CI: 25.0 to 54.0 s, p = 0.0004). Conclusions: The use of the Flowable was more effective in achieving hemostasis, reducing blood loss, and improving survival rates than standard packing in a severe porcine-liver bleeding model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate the value of multimodal ultrasonography (US) in a rat experimental torsion model after 6 h of torsion with different degrees. Methods Twenty-one male rats were divided into three groups. Left testes of the rats were twisted around their vascular pedicle 360 degrees in group 1, 720 degrees in group 2, and 1080 degrees in group 3 and intact right testes of the rats were accepted as control group. Grey-scale US, superb microvascular imaging (SMI), colour Doppler ultrasonography (CDUS), strain elastography (SE), and two-dimensional (2-D) shear wave elastography (SWE) examinations were applied 6 h after torsion procedure and testes were removed for pathological evaluation. Results Short-axis dimensions and volumes of the torsion side were higher than control testes. Lengths of the testes in the 3rd torsion group were smaller than the testes in groups 1 and 2 (P  < 0.002). SMI was better than CDUS in recognizing blood flow in testicular tissue. Strain ratios were higher in group 1 and decreased with the increasing torsion degree. Emean and standard deviation (SD) measurements increased in the torsion side. Pathologically the mean testicular damage scores were statistically significant between torsion and control testes in all groups. Conclusion Our results showed that short-axis and volume measurements, SMI, 2D-SWE, and SE are effective in the evaluation and diagnosis of testicular torsion (TT). Advances in knowledge Evaluation of affected testis and intact testis with multiparametric US in late presenting TT cases is more reliable than being dependent on a single sonographic modality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposed three composite strengthening methods for repairing seismic‐damaged RC frames to restore their seismic capacity. Combined with the damage characteristics and failure mode of the frame under the earthquake action, the local strengthening of the column adopts the angle steel and gusset plate, and then the whole frame is strengthened by the inclined brace, the thin‐walled steel plate and the V‐shaped buckling restrained brace (BRB), respectively. Through the cyclic loading test, the main seismic indexes of the strengthened specimen, including hysteresis curve, skeleton curve, ductility, energy dissipation capacity, and stiffness degradation, are studied. The influence of different strengthening methods on the seismic performance of the seismic‐damaged specimens is analyzed. The results show that the seismic performance of strengthened specimens is significantly improved, and the bearing capacity, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity are increased by 2.58–5.57, 1.05–1.24, and 7.67–15.87 times, respectively. The thin‐walled steel plate shear wall and the inclined brace are destroyed at first during loading to effectively delay the premature destruction of the main frame. The composite strengthening method makes the original frame realize the failure mechanism of "strong joint weak member, strong column weak beam" under strong earthquake action. The strengthened specimen satisfies the seismic requirement and has good seismic performance. The seismic performance of the frame strengthened with the V‐shaped BRB is better than that of the other two strengthening methods. Based on the test date, the formula for calculating the shear‐bearing capacity of the beam end is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The last two decades have seen a shift towards blended learning in education due to technological advancements. This study focuses on dental education, comparing two blended learning models ‐enriched virtual and fully online flipped classroom ‐ in terms of academic achievement, aligning with the Association for Dental Education in Europe's competencies. Materials and Methods: The research was modelled in a quantitative design with a pre–post‐test control group experimental design. The study was conducted at Ege University Faculty of Dentistry in Turkey for 4 weeks with the experimental (n = 44) and control (n = 39) groups divided into two groups by impartial assignment. To the experimental group, the theoretical part of the course was tried to be conveyed before each lesson with video lessons prepared with EdPuzzle containing reinforcement questions and a question set consisting of case questions. The practical learning objectives of the course were tried to be gained through the discussion of the previously presented case questions in the online synchronous course. As tools for collecting data, a unique academic achievement test, a course evaluation form and a semi‐structured qualitative data collection form were used. Results: It was seen that the flipped classroom model had a more positive effect on students' academic achievement than the enriched virtual classroom model. The general satisfaction levels of the participants regarding these two models are also higher in favour of the flipped classroom model. Conclusion: This study provides significant findings for educational institutions, policymakers and educators about the impact of fully online teaching methods on academic achievement. In this context, the flipped classroom method can be preferred both in cases where education is blocked and in dental education institutions that want to ensure digital transformation efficiently and partially remotely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to investigate the effect of estradiol on wound healing in an experimental nasal septal perforation (NSP) model created in rats. Twenty-two Sprague Dawley healthy male rats were separated into two groups. NSP, approximately 2 mm in diameter, was created in each animal. The 0.1 mL 0.12% estradiol (12 g/L) (study group) and 0.1 mL 0.9% saline (9 g/L) (control group) were applied topically once a day for 14 days. The rats were sacrificed on the 14th day and the cartilage nasal septum of each animal was excised for histopathological examination. The nasal mucosal epithelial regeneration and degeneration, acute inflammatory cell count, fibroblast number, vascularization, granulation tissue formation, giant cell number, eosinophil number, degeneration and regeneration of the nasal cartilage, and collagen density were examined. The macroscopic closure rate of the perforations and histopathological parameters were evaluated statistically. In this study, the epithelial regeneration, the fibroblast count, the granulation tissue formation, and the amount of collagen were significantly higher in the study group than in the saline group (p < 0.05). The acute inflammatory activity was lower in the estradiol group than in the saline group (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the closure rate of perforation between the two groups (p = 0.163). No significant difference was found in other comparisons (p > 0.05). The locally administered estradiol may improve wound healing of the nasal septum in an experimental NSP animal model. Level of Evidence Not applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steel strips as soil reinforcements have two significant advantages over reinforcements with a circular cross section like solid and hollow steel bars. First, the contact area of steel strips is more than that of steel bars when they are compared in terms of their steel volume per unit length. Second, unlike steel bars, most of the contact surfaces of steel strips are perpendicular to the in situ vertical pressure. To further enhance steel strips' efficiencies, denti-steel strips are presented in this study. This form of steel strips further integrates the aforementioned mechanical advantages by welding several dents along a smooth steel strip. The dents are small rectangular pieces of smooth steel placed at regular intervals. A total of 240 pullout tests consisting of 51 experimental tests and 189 numerical simulations were conducted to evaluate the performance of a denti-steel strip as an innovative bearing reinforcement in frictional soil. Three-dimensional numerical simulations were carried out using the finite-difference package FLAC3D and validated with the experimental results. It was found that the height, number, and relative spacing of dents are dominant factors in the pullout capacity, and, unlike ribbed steel strips with an unchangeable configuration, the optimum dent spacing of denti-steel strips can be designed based on the properties of granular soil. This research introduces a sawtooth failure surface for a denti-steel strip when there is no interference between dents. However, it proposes a block failure surface when there is severe interference between them. These failure surfaces are the bases of developing several rational equations for predicting the maximum pullout capacity of denti-steel strips. The results show that the intensity of interference between dents depends on the spacing-to-height ratio of dents. There are two critical ratios beyond which the interference between dents and failure mechanism significantly change. Numerical simulations indicate that the average normal stress on the reinforcement is more than the applied normal pressure. Furthermore, the average-to-applied ratio of normal stress increases with a decrease in the applied normal pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate anatase TiO 2 doping with Au to determine the change in the band gap energy and optoelectronic properties using experimental and theoretical analysis. The structural analysis using XRD patterns revealed that the synthesized materials primarily exhibited an anatase phase of TiO 2 , with no impurity peaks observed. However, as the concentration of Au increased, additional diffraction peaks corresponding to Au crystalline phases were detected, indicating successful doping. Furthermore, the crystallite size was found to decrease with increasing Au concentration. We observe that the band gap reduces through substitution of Au into the TiO 2 lattice from 3.09 eV to 2.78 eV, demonstrating the feasibility of bandgap tuning of the TiO 2 system. A redshift for Au doped TiO 2 is observed from absorption spectroscopy and optical absorption intensity using hybrid density functional theory, facilitating visible light absorption, although with potential electron-hole recombination limitations. To enhance a visible light photocatalytic activity for water splitting, we extend our work to explore the impact of N and Au codoping into TiO 2 lattice. It reveals that the combination between N and Au leads to a suitable reduction in the band gap width of pure TiO 2. Interestingly, Au–N codoping may decrease the effect of photogenerated carriers, produce a new optical absorption feature in the visible region, and enhance the photocatalytic performance of TiO 2. This codoping configuration is also a promising photocatalyst for the decomposition of water using visible light without inducing unoccupied states. • Analyzing Au doped TiO2's geometry and optoelectronic features experimentally and theoretically. • Favorable O-rich environments promote the formation of Au doped TiO 2 structures. • Substituting Ti with Au causes a redshift in absorption edges, impacting energy band gaps. • Using hybrid density functional calculations to compute electronic and optical properties. • Codoping Au and N atoms to narrow band gap of TiO 2 without introducing impurities, enhancing visible spectrum photocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an experimental study on the mechanical behavior of buried pipes subjected to thermal load cycles. Firstly, stresses and deformations are measured experimentally on a buried pipe subjected to monotonic and cyclic thermal loads, hence reproducing the typical operating conditions of buried piping systems. Subsequently, a numerical model is developed using the finite element method, which is validated using the results obtained experimentally. Subsequently, this computational model was used to carry out a parametric study of the influence of the mechanical properties of the soil on the stress state of the system. Finally, from the results obtained experimentally and numerically, it is concluded that the most critical situation in terms of stresses takes place when the pipe is firstly placed into operation, i.e. in the first cycle of thermal load and the other variables studied have little impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The realization of zero discharge of desulfurization wastewater has become a major trend in the environmental protection of power plants. After the desulfurization wastewater is treated by the nanofiltration process, a certain amount of nanofiltration concentrated water will be produced. Based on the water quality and quantity analysis of nanofiltration concentrate, this study proposes to apply nanofiltration concentrate to the preparation of freesintering brick to realize the resource utilization of nanofiltration concentrate. The results show that the optimal ratio of the cement-to slag ratio ratio is 1:0.8, the 28d strength of the solidified body is 18.64MPa, the water absorption rate is 15.9%, and the water-soluble chloride ion content is 4.8%. In order to further optimize the production technology to improve the performance of the curing body, the later experiments optimized the curing formulation with the water-reducing agent sodium lignosulfonate as an admixture and obtained the optimal addition ratio of sodium lignosulfonate which was 0.2%. Finally, an economic evaluation was conducted and the use of nanofiltration concentrate for the preparation of free sintering brick could bring considerable economic benefits to the power plant while achieving the purpose of reducing environmental pollution and reducing the investment cost of environmental management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with natural wood, laminated veneer lumber has the characteristics of high strength, flexible specifications, excellent stability, and good economy. In order to study the bearing capacity of LVL trusses, the mechanical properties of LVL materials were tested. The static load test was carried out by using 3 pieces of LVL truss, and the load-deflection relationship, load-strain relationship, bearing capacity and failure mode of LVL trusses were studied. Based on the simplified joint analysis method, the metal plate connection and bolted truss were analyzed, and the bearing capacity calculation formula was developed. The results show that the upper chord instability is the main failure mode for large-span light LVL truss. A simplified formula for bearing capacity of LVL truss was proposed, and the predicted results were in good agreement with the experimental results. Finally, an application example of LVL truss engineering design and construction is briefly introduced. The research can provide technical support for the promotion and application of LVL truss of lightweight poplar wood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the unsteady heat transfer characteristics of the vertical casing buried pipe, an experimental study on the vertical casing buried pipe was carried out by building the sand box test bench for heat transfer characteristics of the vertical casing buried pipe, the analysis of the working condition of heat storage and heat removal conditions different operation mode on the vertical pipe ground tube and the influence of the soil around heat transfer characteristics, the variation rules of inlet and outlet water temperature, surrounding soil temperature the average quantity of heat pet meter and the average heat transfer coefficient were obtained. The experimental results show that the smaller the start-stop ratio, the larger the fluctuation range of soil temperature around the buried pipe when the intermittent operation mode is 1 ∶ 1 and 1 ∶ 2 under heat storage condition. In the process of heat extraction, the soil temperature with the distance from the diameter of the buried pipe is less affected by the start-stop ratio time. The average quantity of heat pet meter in intermittent operation mode is higher than that in continuous operation mode. When running for 72 h, the average quantity of heat pet meter under start-stop ratio 1∶ 1 mode is 157. 98 W / m higher than that under continuous mode. It is concluded that intermittent operation mode is beneficial to soil restoration, so the intermittent operation can be reasonably selected according to the building requirements in practical engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Wildlife Services—National Wildlife Research Center Mississippi Field Station, working in conjunction with Mississippi State University, conducted a study to evaluate the effectiveness of several non-lethal, commercial, physical bird deterrents. Deterrents were available on the open market to reduce double-crested cormorant (Nannopterum auritus) (DCCO) roosting time on floating oyster cages. We hypothesized that reducing bird loafing time on floating oyster cages would reduce the potential for bird defecation. Double-crested cormorant defecation can increase coliform counts in both the water and oysters, which could result in oyster farm closure. Shellfish farms often differ from one another due to environmental factors and farm locations. Six deterrent devices were selected as options for farmers, and the amount of time DCCOs occupied floats with deterrents was compared to the time they occupied those without deterrents (i.e., on a control pond). All deterrents except the Scarem Kite significantly reduced or halted DCCO use of floats compared to the control. Of note, the Scarem Kite is the only deterrent that requires consistent wind to operate effectively. The research facility is open-air, but we did not have sufficient wind for proper Scarem Kite function. Thus, it is possible that all deterrents would have produced significant reductions in DCCO use. Our results are encouraging and show that minimal deterrent applications to oyster cage floats can help farms achieve their operational plans' goals and reduce the potential for pathogen transfer by birds. The data presented here should be considered a starting point for developing an efficient deterrent plan that meets state and federal standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction:Autologousfat graftsurvival depends on many variablessuch as vascularization and inflammation. Fat grafts are also frequently used in breast reconstructions. Objective: The objective is to investigate the effect of tamoxifen (TAM), which is frequently used in hormonal therapy after breast cancer, on fat graft survival and to determine the possible benefits of local and systemic deferoxamine (DFO) applications with TAM. Materials and Methods: Thirty‑two female Wistar Albino rats were randomly divided into four groups. Fat graft from the inguinal region was transferred to the left subscapular area, suprafascial plan on the back of the rats. No application was made to the control group after fat grafting. Group 2 received TAM by oral gavage, Group 3 received TAM + local (L) DFO application to the fat graft area, and Group 4 received TAM + intraperitoneal (IP) DFO application. The grafted adipose tissue was excised 2 months aftersurgery. Macroscopic and histopathologic analysis was performed. Results: In the 2nd postoperative month, the weight and volume of fat grafts were significantly higher in the TAM + L DFO and TAM + IP DFO groups compared to the control group, whereas there was no statistically significant difference in the TAM‑only group. Furthermore, vascularization and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression were significantly increased in the TAM + L DFO and TAM + IP DFO groups compared to the control and TAM groups. Conclusions: Local DFO application to the fat graft recipient site and systemic DFO application increased fat graft survival in TAM‑treated rats. VEGF expression was shown to increase with DFO and fat graftsurvival was also increased accordingly. The use of DFO is promising in improving fat graftsurvival in breast reconstruction patients using TAM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the theory of highway vehicle-bridge coupled vibration analysis, a program for vehicle-bridge coupling vibration analysis of highway bridges is developed using Intel Visual Fortran language. An accurate finite element model of the axle was established by measuring the parameters of the axle test model. And an experimental system of vehicle-bridge coupled vibration was designed. Then, based on theoretical analysis and experimental research, the reliability of the analysis program and test system was verified and analyzed the influence factors of vehicle-bridge coupling vibration test were analyzed, including carriageway location, vehicle-bridge mass ratio and bridge support form were discussed. The results show that: a lateral shift of 10 cm at different lane positions has little effect on the dynamic response of the axle. The axle mass ratio is an important factor affecting the dynamic response of the axle. With a vibration response being most obvious when the mass ratio is between 0.10 and 0.16 during the test process, the vertical acceleration response of bridge bearing 1 model (one end pad bearing, the other end roller bearing) was shown to be significant. This research will provide a helpful reference for others to analyze highway vehicle-bridge coupled vibration in the laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A test facility for the swirl combustor with staged air injection was set up. The particle-laden turbulent reacting flow was experimentally studied in this facility. The gas and particle instantaneous velocities in the swirl combustor were measured by using the Three-Dimension Particle Dynamic Analyzer (PDA) under two different conditions. The distributions of time-averaged axial and tangential velocities, root mean square of axial and tangential fluctuating velocities, and correlation moments of axial-tangential fluctuating velocities are obtained for both gas and particle phases. The results contain also the distribution of particle mean diameter. The gas and particle fluctuating velocity characteristics exhibit obvious differences compared to their time-averaged velocities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forms and surveys often require address information, including state. State data entry fields in online forms typically use a dropdown where the user selects one state from the list. A review of online forms shows a variety of state lists used, with some including the state name fully spelled out while others use the state abbreviation, and still others use a combination of the two, like MD-Maryland. Through a series of three independent experiments, we investigate usability of state list designs as measured by time-on-task, accuracy of answers, or user preference. Results indicate that participants have difficulty with state abbreviations alone. That design results in longer time-on-task, and lower accuracy and preference, particularly for states where the user does not live. We did not find any significant difference in usability for full state names compared to the abbreviation and state name combination in a dropdown design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a fire, the high-temperature creep effect of steel cables can cause structural failure. Due to differences in fabrication and composition, the high-temperature creep behaviors of full-locked/Galfan-coated steel cables significantly differ from those of general structural steel wires. To accurately predict the creep effects of full-locked and Galfan-coated steel cables, it is necessary to obtain their creep strain at high temperatures. This study conducted high-temperature creep tests on full-locked and Galfan-coated steel cables in the range of 350°C to 500°C under different stress ratios and performed tensile strength tests after the creep test. The results showed that under high-temperature and high-stress conditions, the creep strain rate increases rapidly, and different temperatures and stress levels have an impact on the tensile strength of full-locked and Galfan-coated steel cables after exposure to high temperatures. An improved high-temperature creep time strengthening model is proposed to describe the creep behavior of full-locked and Galfan-coated steel cables at high temperatures. The creep behavior obtained in this experiment and the updated model parameters can provide essential data for accurately predicting the creep effects of full-locked and Galfan-coated steel cables. Tensile strength testing can also serve as a reference for the safety assessment and repair of prestressed structures after a fire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In practical engineering, a thin-walled cylindrical shell structure is more easily subjected to localized axial compression loads caused by external adjacent structures or devices. However, until now there are few studies to reveal the buckling behavior of cylindrical shells under such nonuniform loading conditions based on initial imperfection sensitivity. Therefore, buckling analysis of cylindrical shell under localized axial compression loads is investigated in this paper. Based on the buckling test, the influence of the morphology and amplitude of measured initial geometric imperfection are studied using the finite element method. Meanwhile, the inherent reason for initial geometric imperfection affecting the buckling load is elaborated. The influence of amplitude, distribution range, and different combinations of local dent imperfections are also elucidated. In addition, the effects of inclined loading imperfection and uneven shell thickness distribution imperfection are analyzed in the form of deterministic numerical simulation. Finally, a new buckling load knockdown factor that can reasonably consider the influence of loading imperfection and shell thickness variation imperfection is proposed. This work elucidates the initial imperfection sensitivity of the thin-walled cylindrical shell structures under localized axial compression load and can provide useful guidance for the buckling design and preventing buckling failure of these structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the effect of T helper cell 17 (Th17) on the progression of B cell⁃acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B⁃ALL) and its possible mechanism. Methods We established the B⁃ALL mouse model and detected the proportion of Th17 cells in peripheral blood, bone marrow, spleen and lymph nodes by flow cytometry. Further, we used cytokine microarray to analyze the expression of cytokine in peripheral blood of B⁃ALL mice, and used ELISA to verify the IL⁃17A expression in peripheral blood of B⁃ALL mice. Th17 cells were co⁃cultured with leukemia cells, and the apoptosis ratio of Ki⁃67 positive cells and B⁃ALL cells was detected by flow cytometry, the recruitment effect of B⁃All cells on Th17 cells was analyzed. The expression of apoptosis⁃related proteins was detected by Western blot. The development of B⁃ALL by secreting IL-17A from Th17 cells was evaluated in vivo in a mouse model of human acute leukemia. Results Th17 cells were increased in peripheral blood (P < 0.000 1), bone marrow (P < 0.000 1), spleen (P < 0.000 1) and lymph nodes (P < 0.000 1) of B⁃ALL mice. The expression of IL⁃17A was increased in peripheral blood of B⁃ALL model mice (P < 0.000 1), and Th17 cells promoted the proliferation of B ⁃ All cells and inhibited their apoptosis through IL ⁃ 17A (P < 0.000 1) . B ⁃ All cells recruit Th17 cells through CXCL16 (P < 0.000 1) . The animal experiments showed that IL⁃17A treatment significantly increased the proportion of leukemia cells in peripheral blood, bone marrow and spleen of B⁃ALL mice, and shortened their survival time. Conclusion The proportion of Th17 cells in B⁃ALL increases, B⁃All cells recruit Th17 cells through CXCL16, and Th17 cells secrete IL-17A to promote B⁃All progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractResidual stress is rarely considered as an initial condition for Finite Element Analysis (FEA), or used in the component design. A comprehensive numerical and experimental investigation into prestressed steel sheets is conducted. Residual stresses at specific locations were introduced into the steel sheets by dimple formation. FEA is used to simulate dynamic dimple forming of a mild steel disk due to a tool impact and detect the existence of prestress after dimple formation. A physical drop-hammer was used to form a range of dimple sizes in disks to experimentally validate the FEA predictions associated with dimple depth. Dimples were then created using a screw press and the prestress was measured by strain gauges beyond the zone of permanent out-of-plane deformation associated with a dimple. The experimental strain gauge measurements during dimple formation were found to be consistent with FEA predictions. The results demonstrated that the predicted and measured radial and tangentially projected stress components remain in steel sheets after forming a dimple. Furthermore, the predicted prestress was greater near to the dimple formation and occurred at higher magnitudes in the tangential direction than the radial direction. The highest prestress remaining in the disk was at the magnitude of the material’s ultimate tensile stress, predicted in the tangential direction at the edge of the dimple. The numerical and experimental results showed the three stages of prestress formation: the development of stresses during dimple formation, the elastic recovery after the dimple forming, and the final prestressed equilibrium state of the rimmed disk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a comprehensive study based on the results of a series of experiments conducted at different flow rates using micro-thinned sensors to obtain shear stress and velocity components around solid moving objects. The object dynamically represents marine vehicles and inflating boats through simplifications that ignore the effect of air in the object due to the complexity of capturing the viscoelastic behavior of such vehicles in simulations. Data obtained from experiments are compared with CFD simulation results to observe the accuracy and impact of flow rate on different weights. The simulation uses the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes formulation with the VOF method and the turbulence models SST k-?. Three-dimensional transient simulations are performed using the overset grid technique to define the motion of the solid object in the flow field. Uncertainty analysis was carried out for both experiments and CFD simulations. The obtained shear stress and velocity results in the simulations are valid and acceptable for different flow rates on various weights. It is also concluded and demonstrated that weight has a specific impact on the shear stress and motion of the object. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective plugging of artificial fractures is key to the success of temporary plugging and diverting fracturing technology, which is one of the most promising ways to improve the heat recovery efficiency of hot dry rock. At present, how temporary plugging agents plug artificial fractures under high temperature remains unclear. In this paper, by establishing an improved experimental system for the evaluation of temporary plugging performance at high temperature, we clarified the effects of high temperature, injection rate, and fracture width on the pressure response and plugging efficiency of the fracture. The results revealed that the temporary plugging process of artificial fractures in hot dry rock can be divided into four main stages: the initial stage of temporary plugging, the bridging stage of the particles, the plugging formation stage, and the high-pressure dense plugging stage. As the temperature increases, the distribution distance of the temporary plugging agent, the number of pressure fluctuations, and the time required for crack plugging increases. Particularly, when the temperature increases by 100 °C, the complete plugging time increases by 90.7%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper details the invention of a tensioning and anchoring device based on the "wedge‐cutting effect" that can tension and anchor multi‐layer carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) fabric. To achieve a high active confinement effect on an RC column, the device is characterized by its capability to lift the applied prestress to the greatest extent and minimize prestress loss. All eight RC columns with identical structural dimensions were designed and fabricated, including three unstrengthened and five strengthened columns. The seismic performance test and finite element simulation were conducted under a low cyclic reciprocating load. The test parameters include active confinement force and axial compression ratio, with active confinement force varying as a function of the number of layers of CFRP fabric. The results indicate that the seismic performance of RC columns with high active confinement can be significantly improved. Under a high axial compression ratio, the maximum displacement ductility coefficient and ultimate drift ratio of specimens strengthened with four layers of prestressed CFRP fabrics can increase by 87% and 152%, respectively, while the energy consumption can increase by 4.3 times. Additionally, the ultimate horizontal bearing capacity can be raised by 41%. The seismic performance of strengthened columns increases with the increase of active confinement, particularly under high axial compression. The finite element model is in good accord with the experiment. With an increase in active confinement force, the properties of confined concrete and CFRP are utilized to a greater extent, and more energy is dissipated by the opening and closing of numerous micro cracks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The effect of geometries on the ejector performance was studied. • The ejector efficiencies were quantified by ejector modeling and experimental data. • Empirical correlations of R290 ejector component efficiencies were developed. In this paper, the effect of geometric parameters on a two-phase ejector performance was experimentally studied, and the R290 was used as the working fluid. The four geometric parameters of the ejector were discussed in detail, including the diameter of the nozzle throat (D t), the nozzle exit position (NXP), the diameter of the mixing section (D m) and the length of the mixing section (L m). The experimental results indicated that the pressure lift ratio (r p) of the ejector was sensitive to D t and NXP. Within the increase of D t and NXP discussed in this paper, the r p of the ejector varied from 1.13 to 1.33 and 1.32 to 1.07, respectively. In addition, a maximum r p of the ejector could be obtained when D m was 3 mm to 4 mm under different nozzle throat diameter. When the D t was 0.7 mm, the entrainment ratio of the ejector varied from 0.402 to 1.406 as the D m varied from 2 mm to 6 mm. The L m of the ejector diffuser had little effect on the ejector performance. Moreover, the empirical correlations for the efficiencies of R290 two-phase ejector components were summarized based on the experimental result and ejector model. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of skew angle on the failure load and structural behavior of Persian brick masonry barrel vaults using experimental and numerical methods. To this end, experiments were conducted to determine the mechanical properties of the materials and the vault's behavior under gravitational loads. Due to experimental and financial limitations, scaled models of materials and structures were employed. The gravitational loading was applied at a uniform rate and in two modes, symmetric (at mid-span) and asymmetric (at quarter-span). Then a numerical model developed using the nonlinear finite-element method was validated in ANSYS code by comparing the numerical and experimental results using the Willam-Warnke failure criterion. In addition, the effect of four skew angles and three vault dimension (span-to-depth) ratios on seven different geometries of Persian vaults, such as semicircular, pointed (raised, ordinary, and drop), and four-centered (raised, ordinary, and drop) was evaluated. In all modes, the results showed that the skew vault had a lower load-bearing capacity than the nonskew vault. In other words, the skewness of Persian brick vaults reduces their failure load. Moreover, the semicircular and drop pointed brick vaults demonstrated the highest sensitivity (54%) and lowest sensitivity (20.92%) to skew angle (at 45°) and nonskew modes compared to other Persian geometries, respectively. Also, the raised four-centered shape has the highest failure load in the symmetric and asymmetric modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver cirrhosis, which is considered one of the leading causes of death in the world, can lead to severe complications, and is often followed by a liver transplantation. These patients take an average of nine medications daily. If not managed adequately, it can be accompanied by serious drug-related problems. To reduce this risk, a clinical pharmacist may be included as part of the healthcare team to optimize medication therapy in this population. This study aimed to systematically identify the pharmaceutical interventions which reduced drug-related problems and improved medication therapy for adult hospitalized liver cirrhotic and liver transplant patients when compared to standard care. Three databases (PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL) were systematically searched from the inception of each database to 25 October 2023, and interventional studies in the English language were included. The risk of bias was assessed according to RoB-I for the UBA study and RoB2 for the identified RCT. The detected interventions to reduce drug-related problems in liver cirrhotic and liver transplant patients were extracted and classified according to a "Hierarchy of Controls" model. Two studies from Germany and the USA met our inclusion criteria, respectively. In these studies, we identified two interventions that included education, expert consultation, and the monitoring of the immunosuppressive medications serum level. The main objective of the two included studies was improving patients' compliance through adherence. These pharmaceutical interventions identified were classified as administrative controls, which is one of the lowest levels in the "Hierarchy of Controls" with which to address a potential risk. Pharmaceutical interventions to optimize medication therapy were found to be rare in the examined population, and were limited to "administrative controls". These interventions were limited to transplant patients' education and the monitoring of the immunosuppressive medication serum levels. No interventional studies were found to have investigated pharmaceutical interventions in patients with liver cirrhosis. Especially regarding this patient group, future studies to reduce DRPs using pharmaceutical interventions are needed. This study received no external funding and its PROSPERO registration number is CRD42022309122. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the impact of plyometric exercises on the development of leg kicks in freestyle swimming. The study sample consisted of 24 students from the Faculty of Sports Sciences at Mutah University (advanced swimmers). They were randomly divided into two equal groups, with the first group using traditional training methods, and the second group using plyometric exercises. To achieve the study's objectives, the researcher employed an experimental approach suitable for the study's nature. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The results of the study, when comparing the pre-test and post-test results of the control group, indicated that the traditional method had a positive effect on improving leg kicks in freestyle swimming. Similarly, when comparing the pre-test and post-test results of the experimental group, the experimental method showed a positive effect in enhancing leg kicks in freestyle swimming. Based on the study's findings, the researcher recommended raising awareness among coaches about the importance of using plyometric exercises due to their positive impact on improving leg kicks in freestyle swimming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]