Inventory Changes Research Articles

Comparative study of methodologies for SOH diagnosis and forecast of LFP and NMC lithium batteries used in electric vehicles

The exponential growth of electric mobility requires alternatives to extend the life of batteries in new applications and reduce the environmental impact of retired lithium batteries. The second life is an economic and environment-friendly alternative for battery management. The development of fast, low-cost, and reliable diagnostic methodologies makes it possible to increase the economic benefits and reduce the remanufacturing time of second-life batteries (SLBs). In the present work, battery state of health (SOH) distribution analysis, incremental capacity (IC), internal resistance (IR), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were applied as diagnostic methodologies for two different chemistries of lithium-ion batteries previously used in electric vehicles (EV). In addition, module equalization in batteries was done in order to assess whether the state of module charge (SOC) variation affects the SOH. The results demonstrate that the diagnosis methodology depends on the chemistry of the battery, and that there is no single reliable diagnostic procedure that can be applied to all types of lithium-ion batteries. It was determined that the most adequate diagnostic method for LFP batteries (LiFePO4 cathode) is the IC method, while for NMC batteries (LiNi0.33Mn0.33Co0.33O2 cathode) the IR and EIS diagnostic methods are the most appropriate. Similarly, the present work proposed a simple methodology for IC capacity diagnosis and a general expression for SOH determination by IC and incremental voltage diagnosis of LFP batteries. Higher stability of LFP respect to NMC modules was observed during the SLBs performance, retaining >99 % after 500 cycles for LFP, compared with 90.2 % for NMC. The remaining useful life (RUL) shows that there are kinetics and lithium inventory changes in the batteries temperature-dependent.

Using DIC‐δ13C Pair to Constrain Anthropogenic Carbon Increase in the Southeastern Atlantic Ocean Over the Most Recent Decade (2010–2020)

AbstractThe southeastern Atlantic Ocean is a crucial yet understudied region for the ocean absorption of anthropogenic carbon (Canth). Data from the A12 (2020) and A13.5 (2010) cruises offer an opportunity to examine changes in dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), its stable isotope (δ13C), and Canth over the past decade within a limited region (1∼3°E, 32∼42°S). For the decade of 2010–2020, Canth invasion was observed from the sea surface down to 1,200 m based on both DIC and δ13C data. The mean Canth increase rate (1.08 ± 0.26 mol m−2 yr−1) during this period accelerated from 0.87 ± 0.05 mol m−2 yr−1 during the previous period (1983/84–2010). The δ13C‐based Canth increase closely matches the DIC‐based estimation below 500 m but is 26% higher in the upper ocean. This discrepancy is likely due to δ13C's longer air‐sea exchange timescale, seasonal variability in the upper ocean, and the chosen ratio of anthropogenically induced changes in δ13C and DIC. Finally, column inventory changes based on the two methods also exhibit very similar mean Canth uptake rates. The paired DIC concentration and stable isotope dataset may enhance our ability to constrain Canth accumulation and its controlling mechanisms in the ocean.

Efficacy and safety of JNJ-42165279, a fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor, in adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder: a randomized, phase 2, placebo-controlled study.

JNJ-42165279, a highly selective and orally bioavailable fatty acid amide (FAA) hydrolase inhibitor, was evaluated for efficacy and safety in adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in this phase 2, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study (NCT03664232). Participants aged 13-35 years, with a diagnosis of ASD (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition; Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd edition) were randomized (1:1) to 12 weeks of treatment with JNJ-42165279 (25 mg, twice-daily) or placebo. Primary endpoints were the change in the Autism Behavior Inventory (ABI) Core Domain (ABI-CD), ABI-Social Communication (ABI-SC), and ABI-Repetitive/Restrictive Behavior (ABI-RB) scores from baseline to day 85. Of the 61 participants (16 female, 45 male) included in the efficacy analyses, 53 (87%) completed the double-blind treatment. At day 85, the JNJ-42165279 group did not show a statistically significant reduction in ASD symptoms versus placebo, as assessed with ABI-CD (p = 0.284), ABI-SC (p = 0.290), and ABI-RB (p = 0.231). However, the following secondary outcomes exhibited small to moderate changes directionally favoring JNJ-42165279: Social Responsiveness Scale 2 (SRS, p = 0.064), Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised (RBS-R, p = 0.006), Zarit Burden Interview short version (ZBI, p = 0.063), Child Adolescent Symptom Inventory-Anxiety (CASI-Anx, p = 0.048), and Caregiver Global Impression of Severity (p = 0.075). Notably, versus placebo, JNJ-42165279-treated participants showed increased concentrations of FAAs throughout the treatment period, with those achieving elevated concentrations experiencing the greatest reduction in the SRS total score at day 85. JNJ-42165279 demonstrated an acceptable safety profile. Although primary endpoints were not met, JNJ-42165279 may have a therapeutic effect on certain aspects of core ASD symptoms.

Design and rationale of a pragmatic randomized clinical trial of early dronedarone versus usual care to change and improve outcomes in persons with first-detected atrial fibrillation – the CHANGE AFIB study

BackgroundWhile there are several completed clinical trials that address treatment strategies in patients with symptomatic and recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF), there are no randomized clinical trials that address first-line rhythm control of new-onset AF. Recent data suggest that early initiation of rhythm control within 1 year can improve outcomes. MethodsIn this open-label pragmatic clinical trial nested within the Get With The Guidelines Atrial Fibrillation registry, approximately 3,000 patients with first-detected AF will be enrolled at approximately 200 sites. Participants will be randomized (1:1) to treatment with dronedarone in addition to usual care versus usual care alone. The primary endpoint will be time to first cardiovascular (CV) hospitalization or death from any cause through 12 months from randomization. Secondary endpoints will include a WIN ratio (all-cause death, ischemic stroke or systemic embolism, heart failure hospitalization, acute coronary hospitalization), CV hospitalization, and all-cause mortality. Patient reported outcomes will be analyzed based on change in Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality of Life (AFEQT) and change in Mayo AF-Specific Symptom Inventory (MAFSI) from baseline to 12 months. ConclusionCHANGE AFIB will determine if treatment with dronedarone in addition to usual care is superior to usual care alone for the prevention of CV hospitalization or death from any cause in patients with first-detected AF. The trial will also determine whether initiation of rhythm control at the time of first-detected AF affects CV events or improves patient reported outcomes. ClinicalTrials.gov #- NCT05130268

Is low-intensity shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction a durable treatment option?-long-term outcomes of a randomized sham-controlled trial.

Low-intensity shockwave therapy (LiSWT) is an emerging non-invasive and restorative therapy for erectile dysfunction (ED) with demonstrated efficacy and few adverse events. Although LiSWT has been shown to improve erectile function amongst men with ED, few studies have examined its long-term durability. We present the long-term results of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) assessing erectile function after LiSWT. A total of 30 patients with baseline ED seen at the University of Virginia were randomized to LiSWT or sham treatment. Patients in the sham group crossed over at 1 month and were unblinded. After initial trial completion, patients enrolled in the long-term outcome study were considered one combined cohort. Patients were treated twice weekly for 3 consecutive weeks with a Storz® Duolith™ device delivering 3,000 shockwaves at 0.1 mJ/mm2 to the distal penis, the base of the penis, and the crura. Primary outcomes were changes in Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and Erection Hardness Score (EHS) from baseline (3 months pre-treatment) up to 36 months post-treatment. Changes in SHIM and EHS scores were evaluated using linear mixed effects models. Patient satisfaction was assessed with the Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS) index. The mean baseline SHIM score was 10.8±0.94. At 12-, 24-, and 36-month assessment following treatment, the mean SHIM scores were 15.6±1.27 (P<0.001), 15.0±1.14 (P<0.001), and 12.2±1.43 (P=0.31). The mean baseline EHS score was 1.87±0.17. At 12-, 24-, and 36-month assessment following treatment, the mean EHSs were 2.70±0.24 (P<0.001), 2.66±0.21 (P<0.001), and 2.29±0.26 (P=0.10). The median [interquartile range (IQR)] EDITS score was 48.9 (22.7, 74.4), indicating moderate satisfaction with LiSWT. There were no adverse events recorded. Our analysis demonstrates sustained long-term improvement in erectile function after LiSWT for a heterogeneous cohort. While limited by population size, the results suggest durable improvement in erectile function for the first 2 years with a peak treatment effect at 1 year. Treatment effect appears to decline between 2 and 3 years. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04434352.

Cariprazine as a maintenance treatment in dual schizophrenia: a 6-month observational study in patients with schizophrenia and cannabis use disorder.

Schizophrenia is often associated with substance use disorders, particularly cannabis use disorder (CUD). However, treatments frequently fail to address both conditions simultaneously. This study aimed to evaluate the antipsychotic effectiveness of cariprazine in patients with both schizophrenia and CUD in a real-world setting. A 6-month observational study was conducted on 58 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and CUD, treated with cariprazine. Antipsychotic effectiveness was measured using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale and the Clinical Global Impression-Schizophrenia Scale, along with the Improvement and Severity scales. Cannabis consumption and addiction severity were assessed using the Cannabis Abuse Screening Test and the Severity of Dependence Scale, while functioning was evaluated with the Sheehan Disability Inventory. Cariprazine treatment resulted in significant improvements in schizophrenia symptoms (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale change: -47.88 points, P < 0.0001; Clinical Global Impression-Schizophrenia Scale change: -8.26 points, P < 0.0001). Cannabis use and dependence also decreased (Cannabis Abuse Screening Test change: -7.0 points, P < 0.0001; Severity of Dependence Scale change: -7.88 points, P < 0.0001), alongside improvements in functioning (Sheehan Disability Inventory change: -9.48 points, P < 0.0001). These results suggest that cariprazine is effective for both schizophrenia and CUD, though further research is needed to confirm these findings.

Two-Year Outcomes of Prostatic Artery Embolization for Symptomatic Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: An International, Multicenter, Prospective Study

PurposeTo describe clinical outcomes among patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) 24 months following prostatic artery embolization (PAE).Materials and MethodsThis was an international, multicenter, prospective trial of males with BPH with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) or acute urinary retention (AUR) treated with PAE. The primary outcome was the 12 month change in the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) for patients referred for bothersome LUTS, or urinary catheter independence for patients treated for AUR. Secondary outcome measures included changes in IPSS at 3 and 24 months, changes in quality of life (QoL), changes in the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) questionnaire, technical success rate, and adverse events (AEs). Data were summarized using descriptive statistics.ResultsFour hundred seventy-eight consecutive patients underwent PAE (bothersome LUTS: N = 405; AUR: N = 73), mean age was 70 years. For patients treated for bothersome LUTS, mean total IPSS at baseline was 21.8 and decreased to 9.3, 10.6, and 11.2 at 3, 12, and 24 months following PAE, respectively (all p < 0.001); QoL at baseline was 4.7 and decreased to 2.0, 2.1, and 2.3 at 3, 12, and 24 months, respectively (all p < 0.001). The mean SHIM score at baseline and 12 months following PAE was 13.8 and 13.9, respectively. Of the 73 patients treated for AUR, 48 (65.8%) had their indwelling catheter removed within 3 months of PAE and remained catheter free at 24 months. Fifty-five patients (11.5%) experienced ≥ 1 AE and 10 (2.1%) experienced a serious AE.ConclusionPAE is a safe and effective treatment for symptomatic BPH and LUTS.Level of Evidence Level 3Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03527589.Graphical

The effect of intranasal (R,S)-ketamine on symptoms of fatigue in severe major depressive disorder or bipolar depression with and without comorbid alcohol use disorder: Results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BackgroundFatigue is a multidimensional condition that may overlap with depression. Initial studies found that fatigue responds in only a limited way to standard monoaminergic antidepressants and mood stabilizers but does respond positively to intravenous (IV) racemic (R,S)-ketamine (ketamine). However, IV ketamine's use is limited by cost and access barriers. To date, no study has evaluated intranasal (IN) ketamine in individuals with fatigue. This study sought to evaluate the anti-fatigue effects of a single 50 mg dose of IN ketamine in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) or bipolar depression (BDep), both with and without comorbid alcohol use disorder (AUD). MethodsTwenty-eight individuals with primary diagnoses of MDD or BDep I/II currently experiencing a depressive episode with active suicidality were enrolled; approximately 60 % had comorbid AUD. Changes in the NIH-Brief Fatigue Inventory (NIH-BFI) were assessed at baseline and at 4, 24, and 48 h post-treatment. ResultsThe group x time interaction for NIH-BFI score was significant (F = 3.44, p = 0.022), favoring IN ketamine over placebo. IN ketamine was well-tolerated with minimal adverse effects. LimitationsLimitations include the limited sample size, short duration, and single, fixed dose. ConclusionsIN ketamine appears to induce rapid anti-fatigue effects in individuals with severe MDD and BDep both with and without comorbid AUD. This suggests that IN ketamine holds potential as an alternative, rapid-acting, anti-fatigue option for different medical conditions.

The role of sex and age in the differential efficacy of 10 Hz and intermittent theta-burst (iTBS) repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD)

BackgroundSex- and age-dependent outcome differences have been observed in treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), including 10 Hz repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS). We examined whether there are sex- and age-dependent differences in outcome with intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation (iTBS), another rTMS protocol. MethodsThe relationship between biological sex, age, and treatment outcome was retrospectively examined among 414 patients with MDD treated with 10 Hz or iTBS rTMS. Linear mixed-effects modeling was used to examine the association between treatment and change in the 30-item Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report (IDS-SR30) score from baseline to treatments 10 and 30, with biological sex (M/F), protocol (iTBS/10 Hz), age (≥/<50 years old), and time (treatment 1/10/30) included as fixed effects. The three-way sex-protocol-time and age-protocol-time interactions were used to determine any differential relationships between protocol and outcome dependent on sex and age. Post-hoc t-tests were conducted to examine differences in improvement. ResultsThere was a significant three-way sex-protocol-time interaction at treatments 10 (p = 0.016) and 30 (p = 0.031). Males showed significantly greater improvement with iTBS than females at treatments 10 (p = 0.041) and 30 (p = 0.035), while females showed numerically greater improvement with 10 Hz treatment. While there was not a significant three-way age-protocol-time interaction, there was a significant interaction between age (≥50 years old) and time at treatments 10 (p = 0.007) and 30 (p = 0.042), and among age, sex, and time at treatment 30 (p = 0.028). LimitationsRetrospective naturalistic treatment protocol. ConclusionsiTBS appeared less efficacious in females than in males, and rTMS overall was more efficacious in patients over fifty, particularly females.

Comparative Study on the Reduction of Tritium Breeding Ratio Caused by Inventory Changes of a Solid-State Tritium Breeding Blanket in a Fusion Demonstration Reactor Using MCNP and FISPACT-II

The self-sufficient supply of tritium in the deuterium-tritium nuclear fusion demonstration reactor (DEMO) is a fundamental design requirement. But, it is hindered by depletion of tritium breeding materials resulting in reduction of tritium breeding ratio (TBR) less than the initial design value especially in the solid-state tritium breeding blanket (TBB) of the DEMO. Unlike the liquid tritium breeding blanket of DEMO, compensation measures of the depleted breeding material in the solid-state TBB will be its substitution depending on the reduction rate of TBR. To estimate the replacement period of the solid-state TBB, it is required to estimate the reduction rate of TBR according to the operation conditions of the DEMO and the physical configuration of a solid-state TBB. In this study, the representative simulation codes, MCNP and FISPACT-II, are used for assessment of the reduction rate of TBR with the benchmarking model which is modified from the one poloidal segment of the TBB in the Korean-DEMO. After 3 full power-year operations with the neutron irradiation with the benchmarking model, the TBR simulated by MCNP is reduced to 96.84% of the initially calculated TBR, but the TBR calculated by FISPACT-II is reduced to 90.57% of the initially calculated TBR.

Impact of emotional states on tinnitus sound therapy efficacy based on ECG signals and emotion recognition model

BackgroundDiagnosis and severity assessment of tinnitus are mostly based on the patient's descriptions and subjective questionnaires, which lacks objective means of diagnosis and assessment bases, the accuracy of which fluctuates with the clarity of the patient's description. This complicates the timely modification of treatment strategies or therapeutic music to improve treatment efficacy. New methodWe employed a novel random convolutional kernel-based method for electrocardiogram (ECG) signal analysis to identify patients' emotional states during Music Tinnitus Sound Therapy (Music-TST) sessions. Then analyzed correlations between emotional changes in different treatment phase and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) score differences to determine the impact of emotions on tinnitus treatment efficacy. ResultsThis study revealed a significant correlation between patients' emotion changes during Music-TST and the therapy's effectiveness. Changes in arousal and dominance dimension, were strongly linked to THI variations. These findings highlight the substantial impact of emotional responses on sound therapy's efficacy, offering a new perspective for understanding and optimizing tinnitus treatment. Comparison with existing methodsCompared to existing methods, we proposed an objective indicator to assess the progress of sound therapy, the indicator could also be used to provide feedback to optimize sound therapy music. ConclusionsThis study revealed the critical role of emotion changes in tinnitus sound therapy. By integrating objective ECG-based emotion analysis with traditional subjective scale like THI, we present an innovative approach to assess and potentially optimize therapy effectiveness. This finding could lead to more personalized and effective treatment strategies for tinnitus sound therapy.

Correlation between parameters of suppression head impulse paradigm and changesin DHI score in acute vestibular neuritis

Objective:To explore the correlation between the parameters of suppression head impulse paradigm（SHIMP） and changes in dizziness handicap inventory（DHI） scores. Additionally, to evaluate the degree of vertigo and prognosis of patients with acute vestibular neuritis through SHIMP parameters. Methods:Thirty-three patients with acute vestibular neuritis were enrolled for DHI evaluation, vHIT and SHIMP. A secondary DHI score were evaluated after after two weeks, once patients no longer exhibited spontaneous nystagmus. The decrease in the second DHI score was used as the efficacy index（EI）. All patients were divided into significantly effective group, effective group and ineffective group based on EI. Differences of the VOR gain values of SHIMP and the anti-compensatory saccade were compared among the three groups. Results:There were 13 cases in the significant effective group, 11 cases in the effective group, and 9 cases in the ineffective group. ①The mean gain of the horizontal semicircular canal in the significant effective group, the effective group, and the ineffective group was（0.50±0.11）, （0.44±0.12）, and（0.34±0.08）, respectively. The difference between the significant effective group and the ineffective group was statistically significant（P<0.01）. The gain of horizontal semicircular canal was positively correlated with EI（r=0.538 5, P<0.01） 。②The occurrence rate of the anti-compensatory saccade in the significant effective group, the effective group, and the ineffective group was（51.23±19.59）, （33.64±17.68）, and（13.78±11.81）, respectively. Pairwise comparisons between each group showed statistical significance（P<0.05）. The occurrence rate of anti-compensatory saccade was positively correlated with EI（r=0.658 2, P<0.01）. Conclusion:The horizontal semicircular canal gain and the occurrence rate of the anti-compensatory saccade in SHIMP for patients with acute vestibular neuritis were closely correlated with decrease in DHI score.

Change on the Revised Hearing Handicap Inventory and associated factors: results from a longitudinal cohort study

Objective Describe how the Revised Hearing Handicap Inventory (RHHI) changes over time and determine associated factors. Design Data were from a community-based cohort study. Linear regression models were used to estimate mean baseline and final RHHI scores and change (final minus baseline score). Logistic regression models were used to determine factors associated with substantial RHHI change, defined as ±6 points. Factors included baseline age, sex, race, hearing aid use, and baseline pure-tone average (PTA; 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 kHz, worse ear). Study sample This study included 583 participants (mean age: 66.4 [SD 9.1] years; 59.9% female; 14.2% Minority race) with a mean follow-up time of 7.6 (SD 4.9) years. Results Baseline and final RHHI scores were 7.9 and 9.2 points, corresponding to an average 1.3-point increase in hearing difficulty over time. Most participants (65.4%) did not show substantial RHHI change, whereas 21.4% and 13.2% experienced substantial increase and decrease, respectively. In separate multivariable models, PTA and hearing aid use were associated with substantial increase in hearing difficulty, and PTA was associated with substantial decrease. Conclusions The average RHHI change was relatively small. Hearing aid use and PTA were associated with RHHI change.

How do Treasury dealers manage their positions?

Using 31 years of data (1990–2020) on U.S. Treasury dealer positions, we find that Treasury issuance is the main driver of dealers’ weekly inventory changes. Such inventory fluctuations are only partially offset in adjacent weeks and not significantly hedged with futures. Dealers are compensated for inventory risk by means of subsequent price appreciation of their holdings. Amid increased balance sheet costs attributable to post-crisis regulatory changes, dealers significantly reduce their position taking and layoff inventory faster. Moreover, the increased participation of non-dealers (investment funds) in the primary market contributes to diminishing compensation for inventory risk taken on at auctions.

Infrared laser moxibustion for cancer-related fatigue in breast cancer survivors: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundCancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a pervasive, persistent, and distressing symptom experienced by cancer patients, for which few treatments are available. We investigated the efficacy and safety of infrared laser moxibustion (ILM) for improving fatigue in breast cancer survivors.MethodsA three-arm, randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial (6-week intervention plus 12-week observational follow-up) was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Shanghai, China. The female breast cancer survivors with moderate to severe fatigue were randomized 2:2:1 to ILM (n = 56) sham ILM (n = 56), and Waitlist control (WLC)(n = 28) groups. Patients in the ILM and sham ILM (SILM) groups received real or sham ILM treatment, 2 sessions per week for 6 weeks, for a total of 12 sessions. The primary outcome was change in the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI) score from baseline to week 6 with follow-up until week 18 assessed in the intention-to-treat population.ResultsBetween June 2018 and July 2021, 273 patients were assessed for eligibility, and 140 patients were finally enrolled and included in the intention-to-treat analysis. Compared with WLC, ILM reduced the average BFI score by 0.9 points (95% CI, 0.3 to 1.6, P = .007) from baseline to week 6, with a difference between the groups of 1.1 points (95% CI, 0.4 to 1.8, P = .002) at week 18. Compared with SILM, ILM treatment resulted in a non-significant reduction in the BFI score (0.4; 95% CI, -0.2 to 0.9, P = .206) from baseline to week 6, while the between-group difference was significant at week 18 (0.7; 95% CI, 0.2 to 1.3, P = .014). No serious adverse events were reported.ConclusionWhile ILM was found to be safe and to significantly reduce fatigue compared with WLC, its promising efficacy against the sham control needs to be verified in future adequately powered trials.Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov: NCT04144309. Registered 12 June 2018.

PENGARUH PERSEDIAAN, INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY SET DAN KURS VALUTA ASING TERHADAP RETURN SAHAM

This study aims to determine and describe the effect of inventory, investment opportunity set and foreign exchange rates.The population in this study includes all automotive and component sub-sector companies listed on the Indonesian Stock Exchange for the 2018-2021 period. Determination of the sample used in this study as a representative form of the population using a purposive sampling technique. The use of data analysis techniques in this study is descriptive and verification analysis. The selected sample data in this study were then tested using a multiple linear regression analysis model.The results of the research that has been done inform that inventory has no effect on stock returns. investment opportunity set has a significant effect on stock returns.foreign exchange rates have no effect on stock returns inventory, investment opportunity set and foreign exchange rates simultaneously have no significant effect on stock returns. The result of testing the analysis of the coefficient of determination is that the value of the coefficient of determination (Adjusted R Square) This value informs that changes in inventory, investment opportunity sets and foreign exchange rates affect changes in stock returns by 13.80% influenced by other variables outside this study.

Dynamics and Complexity Analysis of Fractional-Order Inventory Management System Model

To accurately depict inventory management over time, this paper introduces a fractional inventory management model that builds upon the existing classical inventory management framework. According to the definition of fractional difference equation, the numerical solution and phase diagram of an inventory management system are obtained by MATLAB simulation. The influence of parameters on the nonlinear behavior of the system is analyzed by a bifurcation diagram and largest Lyapunov exponent (LLE). Combined with the related indexes of time series, the complex characteristics of a quantization system are analyzed using spectral entropy and C0. This study concluded that the changing law of system complexity is consistent with the LLE of the system. By analyzing the influence of order on the system, it is found that the inventory changes will be periodic in some areas when the system is fractional, which is close to the actual conditions of the company’s inventory situation. The research results of this paper provide useful information for inventory managers to implement inventory and facility management strategies.

Detailed visualization experiments on the start-up process and stable operation of pulsating heat pipes: Effects of dividing boards

To broaden the applicable orientation for the existing closed loop pulsating heat pipe (CLPHP) with a relatively large tube (internal diameter of 6 mm), this work fabricated a novel quartz CLPHP inserted with a dividing board in the straight section of each tube. The dividing board forms two semi-circles with an effective hydraulic diameter (Dh) of 3.09 mm. This method amplifies the surface tension effect with almost no change in the mass inventory of working fluid. Through a series of visualization experiments, the effect of filling ratio (FR) on the pulsation in the boarded model are first revealed by comparing with the original non-boarded CLPHP under the vertical and the horizontal orientations. The four longitudinal corners generated by dividing board are found not only accelerated the drain down of the liquid slugs but beneficial to the onset of nucleate boiling, prompting the threshold of pulsation motion for 10 - 20 W. Also, the visualization results for the vertical orientation show that the sealing between the dividing boards and the inner tube had a great impact on the performance and heat transfer behavior. The thermal resistance can be improved by 22 - 43 % without leakage between the semi-circles. Under the horizontal orientation, the boarded CLPHP with only three number of turns can be incited with pulsation motion successfully. The boarded design provides additional vapor channels and avoids the liquid slug trains being pushed away from the evaporator during the initial heating period. Also, the un-balanced capillary force due to the hydraulic diameter difference can sustain subsequent pulsation motion. However, the success under only FR = 50 % indicates that an appropriate FR was also necessary.

Strategic Inventory Management: Exploring the Interplay of Holidays, Market Demand, and Financial Factors

This study aims to explore the relationship between inventory and business operations as businesses increasingly focus on the strategic management of inventory. Inventory, or stock, refers to a catalog of items, components, and raw materials that a firm regularly uses or sells. The study starts by highlighting the significance of inventory in measuring a firm’s financial position, profitability, and liquidity. It then focuses on raw materials, work-in-process, finished goods, pending inventories, demand fluctuations, festive influences, and financial constraints. The paper begins with a detailed literature review of inventory types and factors that affect them. The study proposes the hypothesis that inventory changes are closely related to holidays, demand, and the firm's financial position. This paper examines the impact of holidays, market demand, and a firm’s financial position on inventories. It concludes that inventory management significantly affects firms’ operations and calls for further research on the relationship between inventory levels, cost of capital, and profitability to optimize inventory management for sustainable development.

Assessment of Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Osteoarthritis: Analysis From the UK Medical Cannabis Registry

Osteoarthritis accounts for 0.6% of disability-adjusted life years globally. There is a paucity of research focused on cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) for osteoarthritic chronic pain management. This study aims to assess changes in validated patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and CBMP clinical safety in patients with osteoarthritis. A prospective case series from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry was analyzed. Primary outcomes were changes in the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ2), EQ-5D-5L, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaire, and Single-Item Sleep Quality Scale (SQS) at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups from baseline. Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v.4.0 was used for adverse event (AE) analysis. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.050. Seventy-seven patients met inclusion criteria. CBMP initiation correlated with BPI pain severity (p = 0.004), pain interference (p = 0.005), and MPQ2 (p = 0.017) improvements at all follow-ups compared to baseline. There were improvements in the EQ-5D-5L index (p = 0.026), SQS (p < 0.001), and GAD-7 (p = 0.038) up to 6 and 3 months, respectively. Seventeen participants (22.08%) recorded 76 mild AEs (34.86%), 104 moderate AEs (47.71%), and 38 severe AEs (17.43%). Though causality cannot be assumed in this observational study, results support development of randomized control trials for osteoarthritis pain management with CBMPs.