Preparation Time Research Articles

Results from a first-in-human phase I safety trial to evaluate the use of a vascularized pericranial/temporoparietal fascial flap to line the resection cavity following resection of newly diagnosed glioblastoma

PurposeThe efficacy of systemic therapies for glioblastoma (GBM) remains limited due to the constraints of systemic toxicity and blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Temporoparietal fascial flaps (TPFFs) and vascularized peri cranial flaps (PCF) are not restricted by the blood–brain barrier (BBB), as they derive their vascular supply from branches of the external carotid artery. Transposition of a vascularized TPFF or PCF along a GBM resection cavity may bring autologous tissue not restricted by the BBB in close vicinity to the tumor bed microenvironment, permit ingrowth of vascular channels fed by the external circulation, and offer a mechanism of bypassing the BBB. In addition, circulating immune cells in the vascularized flap may have better access to tumor-associated antigens (TAA) within the tumor microenvironment. We conducted a first-in-human Phase I trial assessing the safety of lining the resection cavity with autologous TPFF/PCF of newly diagnosed patients with GBM.Methods12 patients underwent safe, maximal surgical resection of newly diagnosed GBMs, followed by lining of the resection cavity with a pedicled, autologous TPFF or PCF. Safety was assessed by monitoring adverse events. Secondary analysis of efficacy was examined as the proportion of patients experiencing progression-free disease (PFS) as indicated by response assessment in neuro-oncology (RANO) criteria and overall survival (OS). The study was powered to determine whether a Phase II study was warranted based on these early results. For this analysis, subjects who were alive and had not progressed as of the date of the last follow-up were considered censored and all living patients who were alive as of the date of last follow-up were considered censored for overall survival. For simplicity, we assumed that a 70% PFS rate at 6 months would be considered an encouraging response and would make an argument for further investigation of the procedure.ResultsMedian age of included patients was 57 years (range 46–69 years). All patients were Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wildtype. Average tumor volume was 56.6 cm3 (range 14–145 cm3). Resection was qualified as gross total resection (GTR) of all of the enhancing diseases in all patients. Grade III or above adverse events were encountered in 3 patients. No Grade IV or V serious adverse events occurred in the immediate post-operative period including seizure, infection, stroke, or tumor growing along the flap. Disease progression at the site of the original tumor was identified in only 4 (33%) patients (median 23 months, range 8–25 months), 3 of whom underwent re-operation. Histopathological analyses of those implanted flaps and tumor bed biopsy at repeat surgery demonstrated robust immune infiltrates within the transplanted flap. Importantly, no patient demonstrated evidence of tumor infiltration into the implanted flap. At the time of this manuscript preparation, only 4/12 (33%) of patients have died. Based on the statistical considerations above and including all 12 patients 10/12 (83.3%) had 6-month PFS. The median PFS was 9.10 months, and the OS was 17.6 months. 4/12 (33%) of patients have been alive for more than two years and our longest surviving patient currently is alive at 60 months.ConclusionsThis pilot study suggests that insertion of pedicled autologous TPFF/PCF along a GBM resection cavity is safe and feasible. Based on the encouraging response rate in 6-month PFS and OS, larger phase II studies are warranted to assess and reproduce safety, feasibility, and efficacy.Trial registration number and date of registration for prospectively registered trialsClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT03630289, dated: 08/02/2018.

Development of novel lipoplex formulation methodologies to improve large-scale transient transfection for lentiviral vector manufacture

Large-scale transient transfection has advanced significantly over the last 20 years, enabling the effective production of a diverse range of biopharmaceutical products, including viral vectors. However, a number of challenges specifically related to transfection reagent stability and transfection complex preparation times, remain. New developments and improved transfection technologies are required to ensure that transient gene expression-based bioprocesses can meet the growing demand for viral vectors. In this paper we demonstrate the growth of cationic lipid-based liposomes, an essential step in many cationic lipid-based transfection processes, can be controlled through adoption of low pH (pH 6.40 – pH 6.75) and in low salt concentration (0.2X PBS) formulations, facilitating improved control over the nanoparticle growth kinetics and enhancing particle stability. Such complexes retain the ability to facilitate efficient transfection for prolonged periods compared to standard preparation methodologies. These findings have significant industrial applications for the large-scale manufacture of lentiviral vectors for two principal reasons. First, the alternative preparation strategy enables longer liposome incubation times to be used, facilitating effective control in a GMP setting. Second, the improvement in particle stability facilitates the setting of wider process operating ranges, which will significantly improve process robustness and maximise batch-to-batch control and product consistency.

A combined short- and medium-term traffic flow prediction method for proactive traffic control at expressway toll stations

Traffic flow prediction can support proactive control strategies to alleviate queues and delays at expressway toll stations. The prediction should be enough accurate and advanced that leaves sufficient preparation time to implement control measures for upcoming congestions. The accuracy of prediction and the lead time for accurate prediction are contradictory. To balance both aspects, a control-oriented combined prediction method was proposed in this study. This method automatically tuned prediction horizons based on predicted level of congestion. It used long short-term memory (LSTM) neural networks to learn the spatial–temporal characteristics of historical traffic flow and predict short-term and medium-term traffic flow at toll stations. Then, the level of congestion was determined for graded congestion warning and dynamic tuning of prediction horizons. To validate the proposed method, the Ganggou toll station was selected as the study site. The proposed integrated model can facilitate reliable proactive control measures at expressway toll stations.

Comparison of the Snare Loop Technique and the Hungaroring Reinforcement for Physician-Modified Endograft Fenestrations-An In Vitro Study.

We conducted an in vitro comparison of the snare loop reinforcement against a closed-loop reinforcement (Hungaroring) for physician-modified endograft (PMEG) fenestrations regarding preparation time and stability during flaring balloon dilatation. The time to complete a PMEG fenestration with reinforcement was measured and compared between the Hungaroring and snare loop groups. The number of stitches was counted. Each fenestration was dilated using a 10 mm high-pressure, non-compliant balloon up to 21 atm in pressure, and fluoroscopic images were taken. The presence of indentation on the oversized balloon at the level of the reinforcement was evaluated at each fenestration. Five fenestrations were created in each group (n = 5) for a total of ten pieces. The completion time in the snare loop group was 1070 s (IQR:1010-1090) compared to 760 s (IQR:685-784) in the Hungaroring group (p = 0.008). Faster completion time was achieved by faster stitching (23.2 s/stitch (IQR 22.8-27.3) for the snare loop group and 17.3 s/stitch (IQR 17.3-20.1) for the Hungaroring group (p = 0.016). None of the fluoroscopic images of the snare loop reinforcement showed an indentation on the balloon during the overexpansion; on the contrary, the Hungaroring showed indentation in every case, even at 21 atm. Fenestrations reinforced with Hungaroring can be completed significantly faster. Furthermore, the Hungaroring resists over-dilation even at high pressures, while snare loop reinforcements dilate at nominal pressure.

Numerical modelling of different airbag folding patterns and their influence on occupant responses in frontal vehicle impact

This paper presented a procedure for airbag folding for the application in occupant safety studies and analysed the influence of different airbag folding patterns on the occupant severity in frontal impact. Airbags were folded in two patterns: zig-zag and top-roll, using two folding techniques: Initial Metric Method and Explicit Folding. The explicit folding was found to be more expensive in terms of preparation time. However, this approach provided more control over the whole folding process. The Initial Metric Method was more robust, however, it’s hard to apply for complex folding patterns. Deployments of airbags were validated against experimental data of pendulum tests. Those airbag models were applied to 2006 Ford F250 pickup truck. This vehicle was used for simulations of frontal vehicle impact where the 50th male Hybrid III crash test dummy was an occupant. Results of this simulation were compared with an actual test with a similar vehicle, under the same impact conditions. Results showed the head and chest accelerations were lower for top-roll folded airbag cases, however neck normal forces were higher compared to zig-zag folded airbag. The internal pressure in the early stage of deployment was 33% higher for the top-roll folded airbags.

SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATED CALCULATION OF PARAMETERS OF THE STAGE OF LAUNCHING AN UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE FROM A CATAPULT-TYPE LAUNCHER

This analysis focuses on the various stages involved in launching unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and highlights the key considerations that must be taken into account during these stages. When launching UAV in rugged terrain without a proper runway, alternative launch mechanisms, such as a catapult-type launcher, must be developed. The use of a catapult launcher offers several advantages, including the ability to launch in confined spaces and a quick preparation time. However, the development of a launcher is a complex process that requires a comprehensive approach, involving sophisticated engineering solutions to calculate launch parameters and the flight path of the UAV. Throughout the launch process, the UAV progresses through different stages, starting from the ignition of the starting engine until it reaches the desired height and speed. It is crucial to consider various parameters that influence the trajectory of the UAV during the launch phase. The authors determined the influence of the characteristics of the engines and launcher on the trajectory of the UAV and formulated a mathematical model for calculating the speed and coordinates of movement, which have a significant impact on the flight path. A system for automated calculation of the parameters of the first stage of launching a UAV from a catapult-type launcher is proposed, this system will reduce the time for product development, as well as reduce the influence of the human factor, which will lead to a decrease in the error in calculations. To analyze the starting characteristics of the product, a catapult model was chosen, which consists of a guide, a carriage and a UAV with a starting engine. The influence of the mass of the product, the launch angle and the distribution of external forces acting on the product are taken into account, which leads to the calculation of the initial values for further design. The result of the application of the system is to obtain the parameters of the speed of movement and the position of the flying object in tabular and graphical forms

Evaluating Satisfaction and Self-Confidence among Nursing Students in Clinical Simulation Learning.

Clinical simulation is effective in nursing student education, fostering autonomous learning and critical skill development in safe environments. This method is adaptable to dynamic educational approaches and integrates technology. Satisfaction and self-confidence are key elements in its evaluation. The general objective of this research was to describe the levels of satisfaction and self-confidence among undergraduate nursing students regarding the use of clinical simulation in the field of family and community nursing. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the University of Jaén, Spain, during the 2023/2024 academic year. Data on sociodemographic aspects, satisfaction, and self-confidence were collected using a validated instrument. The statistical analysis included central measures, dispersion, and frequencies, with confidence intervals. The study involved 96 students in scenario 1 (family assessment) and 97 in scenario 2 (family intervention), with the majority being women. In scenario 1, the mean satisfaction score was 4.38 out of 5, and self-confidence was scored 4.44 out of 5. Prior preparation time correlated significantly with higher levels of satisfaction and self-confidence. In scenario 2, the mean scores were slightly higher but not statistically significant. Our study demonstrated high levels of satisfaction and self-confidence among nursing students following clinical simulations. Prior preparation was associated with better outcomes, and the quality of the simulation positively impacted the results.

Stress among Private School Teachers

The modern lifestyle is accompanied by a great amount of stress, and private school teachers are also not far from it. The workplace is also more stressful than it used to be. Stress among private school teachers is influenced by a multifaceted phenomenon. For the completion of this research, the predetermined objectives were set first. The objectives of this study were to analyze and address the factors contributing to stress among private school teachers in order to implement effective support mechanisms and promote overall well-being within the educational environment. Altogether, 19 respondents, among them 1 principal, 2 management committee members, and 16 teachers (8 from the basic level and 8 from the secondary level) of a private school in Solukhumbu, were selected purposefully. The data and responses were collected from management committee members, principal, and teachers through an open ended questionnaire, and the responses were interpreted and described qualitatively according to the defined objectives. Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory is interconnected in this study to understand stress among private school teachers and use appropriate remedies in a specific order, starting with basic physiological needs and progressing to higher-level needs. 16 respondents working as a school teacher in a private school were burdened with excessive tasks, responsibilities, and demands within their professional role. They were facing high teaching loads with numerous classes, subjects, and students to manage. They had very limited time for lesson preparation and other innovations. Strategies such as workload management, providing adequate resources, promoting work-life balance, and offering support for professional development can help alleviate the stress associated with work overload and enhance the quality of teaching and learning. Further, private school teachers in Solukhumbu were not getting the facilities of professional development opportunities like seminars, workshops, research, on-the-job training, and other soft skills workshops from the school administration. To address this issue, it would be essential for private school teachers, school administrators, and relevant stakeholders to collaborate and advocate for the importance of professional development. Additionally, government policies or initiatives that support and incentivize private schools to invest in teacher training and other professional development courses. The responses of all the respondents showed that job security and stability are big worries for them. The survey showed that private school teachers in Solukhumbu had a lot of uncertainty about job security and stability, which is creating stress for the teachers. The school management committee and school administrators should prioritize clear policies regarding employment terms, the school's future plans, bonuses, insurance, retirement plans, disability coverage, and other wellness programs. All 16 respondents from different backgrounds responded that teaching is stressful and sensitive enough to address cultural differences, language barriers, and varying learning styles, which requires extra effort from the teacher. The school management committee and administration should prioritize the pressure of the sociocultural sensitivity of diverse students to the teachers. Limited participation in decision-making can generate stress by undermining teachers' sense of professional value, autonomy, and job satisfaction. Addressing these stressors involves implementing effective feedback mechanisms by the concerned authorities that provide constructive insights, recognize achievements, and support teachers. Maslow's theory is a psychological theory that suggests teachers are motivated by a hierarchy of needs, starting with basic needs and progressing through safety, belongingness, esteem, and self-actualization. While Maslow's theory is primarily focused on motivation, it can be indirectly related to stress management. Implementing these recommendations requires the commitment of school administrators, policymakers, and educators to create a supportive and conducive environment for teaching and learning in private schools.

Rapid and Universal Synthesis of 2D Transition Metal (Ti, Zr, Hf, V, Nb, Ta, Cr, Mo, and W) Sulfides through Oxide Sulfurization in CS2 Vapor.

Transition metal (TM) sulfides belong to the class of 2D materials with a wide application range. Various methods, including solvothermal, hydrothermal, chemical vapor deposition, and quartz ampoule-based approaches, have been employed for the synthesis of TM sulfides. Some of them face limitations due to the low stability of TM sulfides and their susceptibility to oxidation, and others require more sophisticated equipment or complex and rare precursors or are not scalable. In this work, we propose an alternative approach for the synthesis of 2D TM sulfides by sulfurization of corresponding metal oxides in the vapor of CS2 at elevated temperature. Subsequent treatment in liquid nitrogen allows exfoliation of created sulfides to a 2D structure. A proposed approach was successfully applied to nine transition metals: Ti, Zr, Hf, V, Nb, Ta, Cr, Mo, and W. The resulting materials were extensively characterized using various analytical techniques with a focus on their crystalline structure and 2D nature. Our approach offers several advantages including the use of simple precursors (CS2 and metal oxides), universality (in all cases, the sulfides were obtained), equipment simplicity (tube furnace and quartz reactor), short preparation time (3 h), and the ability of morphology and phase tuning (in particular cases) of the created materials by adjusting the temperature. In addition, gram-scale bulk materials can be obtained in the entry-level laboratories using the proposed approach.

Ultrafast In-Situ synthesis of flexible MoO3 anode in five seconds for High-Performance aqueous zinc ion hybrid capacitor

The efficient synthesis of high-performance α-MoO3 on flexible conductive substrates is crucial for enhancing its value in the field of energy storage. However, traditional synthesis methods currently employed often suffer from slow heating rates, intricate reaction processes involving multiple steps, sluggish reaction kinetics, high energy consumption, and prolonged preparation times, thereby hindering efficient production. Presented herein is a facile, ultrafast, and versatile approach utilizing microwave carbon thermal shock, a one-step reaction synthesis of α-MoO3 on carbon substrates within 5 s. During microwave carbon thermal shock, the precursor salt experiences an extremely rapid heating rate, swiftly decomposing to form small-sized α-MoO3 crystals. Simultaneously, this process promotes the oxidation of adjacent carbon sites, thereby imparting multi-scale defects and oxygen-containing functional groups to the resulting carbon cloth (CC). The exceptionally low reaction energy barriers and superior Gibbs free energy (ΔG) further substantiate the advantages of the microwave carbon thermal shock strategy over traditional synthesis methods in terms of both kinetics and thermodynamics. The air-assisted transient microwave carbonthermal shock (AMCTS) process circumvents high energy requirements, multistep reactions, and extended preparation times, endowing AMCTS-CC@MoO3 with remarkable flexibility and processability. In demonstrating its practical utility within zinc-ion hybrid micro capacitors, it exhibits outstanding specific capacitance (up to 2300mF cm−2) and mechanical stability. This air-assisted transient microwave thermal shock process provides an efficient route for ultrafast and low-cost synthesis of flexible zinc-ion anode materials.

Isolated Langerhans cell histiocytosis in the stomach of adults: four-case series and literature review

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) of the stomach is rare. Moreover, it is usually found in pediatric patients with systemic diseases and may be associated with a poor prognosis. Solitary gastric LCH in adults is extremely rare and is often misdiagnosed or missed. The aim of our study was to review cases of gastric LCH and explore the characteristics of the disease further. A retrospective study of all patients admitted with solitary gastric LCH was conducted between 2013 and 2023. Clinical manifestations, endoscopic and pathological features, immunophenotypes, and molecular changes were collected from medical records. We examined four cases (one female, three males) of gastric LCH. The affected patients were between 33 and 70 years of age. Endoscopically, three patients presented with a solitary polyp or elevated lesions, whereas one patient showed no abnormalities. Under a microscope, all cases showed abnormal proliferation of histiocytoid cells infiltrating in a nested or sheet-like fashion. The tumor cells were medium-sized, with a slightly eosinophilic cytoplasm, irregular or renal-shaped nuclei, folded nuclear membranes, visible nuclear grooves, and the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the background. Immunohistochemically, all lesions expressed CD1a, S-100, langerin, and cyclinD1. One case showed diffuse BRAF V600E positivity. Follow-up data were available for all patients from 4 to 36 months, and all patients were alive without recurrence or progress at the time of manuscript preparation. Combined with previously reported data, solitary adult gastric LCH is more common in male patients, most of whom are asymptomatic or exhibit only mild gastrointestinal symptoms, with a good prognosis. Endoscopy often reveals solitary polyps or protruding lesions; rare cases may progress to multifocal/multisystem lesions, necessitating long-term close follow-up.

AAC in AACtion: Collaborative Strategies for Special Education Teachers and Speech-Language Pathologists

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) refers to a wide variety of communication devices, systems, tools, and strategies that support or replace spoken language. Augmentative and alternative communication users represent a range of ages, abilities, and communication needs. Support for AAC often begins in the public school setting. Although the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates public schools to provide adequate assistive technology for communication and training to support implementation, researchers estimate that fewer than 40% of students with communication impairments using AAC are proficient communicators. Barriers to implementation include a lack of training opportunities, limited preparation time, unfamiliarity with AAC systems, and difficulty finding evidence-based strategies for AAC. To address these, we present evidence-based strategies that speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and special education teachers may use in collaboration to support students using AAC and practical tips for implementation. Strategies described include aided language modeling, core vocabulary, and communication partner support behaviors. Planning considerations for collaboration are discussed.

The Impact of Relocation Patterns on Psychological Stress

This study investigated how relocation patterns affect disaster survivors’ psychological stress on the diverse durations and spaces of relocation. It analyzed a 10-year data set of 1,236 families affected by 2009’s Typhoon Morakot in Taiwan, identifying six relocation patterns through dynamic time warping (DTW). A hierarchical linear model was utilized, revealing the discernible impacts of environmental factors, sociocultural factors, and family-level socioeconomic factors on psychological stress. The study revealed that survivors who quickly found stable residences after the disaster initially experienced lower stress levels, but in the long term, their stress increased. Conversely, those with unstable residences experienced higher initial stress but lower long-term stress. Comparing similar patterns, we found that survivors who had more time for preparation and who sought opportunities, coped, or adapted to secondary stressors before long-distance relocation faced lower stress levels. These findings suggest that relocation patterns have a greater impact on the psychosocial stress of disaster survivors than time or relocation distance.

Unraveling phenological and stomatal responses to flash drought and implications for water and carbon budgets

Abstract. In recent years, extreme droughts in the United States have increased in frequency and severity, underlining a need to improve our understanding of vegetation resilience and adaptation. Flash droughts are extreme events marked by the rapid dry down of soils due to lack of precipitation, high temperatures, and dry air. These events are also associated with reduced preparation, response, and management time windows before and during drought, exacerbating their detrimental impacts on people and food systems. Improvements in actionable information for flash drought management are informed by atmospheric and land surface processes, including responses and feedbacks from vegetation. Phenologic state, or growth stage, is an important metric for modeling how vegetation modulates land–atmosphere interactions. Reduced stomatal conductance during drought leads to cascading effects on carbon and water fluxes. We investigate how uncertainty in vegetation phenology and stomatal regulation propagates through vegetation responses during drought and non-drought periods by coupling a land surface hydrology model to a predictive phenology model. We assess the role of vegetation in the partitioning of carbon, water, and energy fluxes during flash drought and carry out a comparison against drought and non-drought periods. We selected study sites in Kansas, USA, that were impacted by the flash drought of 2012 and that have AmeriFlux eddy covariance towers which provide ground observations to compare against model estimates. Results show that the compounding effects of reduced precipitation and high vapor pressure deficit (VPD) on vegetation distinguish flash drought from other drought and non-drought periods. High VPD during flash drought shuts down modeled stomatal conductance, resulting in rates of evapotranspiration (ET), gross primary productivity (GPP), and water use efficiency (WUE) that fall below those of average drought conditions. Model estimates of GPP and ET during flash drought decrease to rates similar to what is observed during the winter, indicating that plant function during drought periods is similar to that of dormant months. These results have implications for improving predictions of drought impacts on vegetation.

WalkingWizard—A Truly Wearable EEG Headset for Everyday Use

Electroencephalography (EEG) provides an opportunity to gain insights to electrocortical activity without the need for invasive technology. While increasingly used in various application areas, EEG headsets tend to be suited only to a laboratory environment due to the long preparation time to don the headset and the need for users to remain stationary. We present our design of a dry, dual-electrodes flexible PCB assembly that realizes accurate sensing in the face of practical motion artifacts. Using it, we present WalkingWizard, our prototype dry-electrode EEG baseball cap that can be used under motion in everyday scenarios. We first evaluated its hardware performance by comparing its electrode-scalp impedance and ability to capture alpha rhythm against both wet EEG and commercially available dry EEG headsets. We then tested WalkingWizard using steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP) experiments, achieving high classification accuracy of 87% for walking speeds up to 5.0 km/h, beating state-of-the-art. Expanding on WalkingWizard, we integrated all necessary electronic components into a flexible PCB assembly—realizing WalkingWizard Integrated , in a truly wearable form-factor. Utilizing WalkingWizard Integrated, we demonstrated several applications as proof-of-concept: classification of SSVEP in VR environment while walking, real-time acquisition of emotional state of users while moving around the neighbourhood, and understanding the effect of guided meditation for relaxation.

Distinguishing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from methicillin-sensitive strains by combining Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticle-based affinity mass spectrometry with a machine learning strategy

Pathogenic bacteria, including drug-resistant variants such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), can cause severe infections in the human body. Early detection of MRSA is essential for clinical diagnosis and proper treatment, considering the distinct therapeutic strategies for methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) and MRSA infections. However, the similarities between MRSA and MSSA properties present a challenge in promptly and accurately distinguishing between them. This work introduces an approach to differentiate MRSA from MSSA utilizing matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) in conjunction with a neural network-based classification model. Four distinct strains of S. aureus were utilized, comprising three MSSA strains and one MRSA strain. The classification accuracy of our model ranges from ~ 92 to ~ 97% for each strain. We used deep SHapley Additive exPlanations to reveal the unique feature peaks for each bacterial strain. Furthermore, Fe3O4 MNPs were used as affinity probes for sample enrichment to eliminate the overnight culture and reduce the time in sample preparation. The limit of detection of the MNP-based affinity approach toward S. aureus combined with our machine learning strategy was as low as ~ 8 × 103 CFU mL−1. The feasibility of using the current approach for the identification of S. aureus in juice samples was also demonstrated.Graphical

Triple point of carbon dioxide: using a new calibration point of the International Temperature Scale ITS-90

One of the important tasks of improving the International Temperature Scale ITS-90 is considered – the substitution of the fixed point of mercury (Hg) in connection with the ratification of the Minamata Convention and restrictions on the extraction, use and transportation of mercury. Reported results of experimental calibration of long-stem standard platinum resistance thermometers using a new calibration point from the list of secondary fixed points of the International Temperature Scale ITS-90. A method has been developed to realize the triple point of carbon dioxide (CO2) using liquid nitrogen. The method reduced the preparation time of the cell from 60 to 30 minutes and increased the duration of melting plateau from 10 to 40 hours. Presented results of two calibrations cases: using the fixed-point of Hg; using the triple point of CO2 instead of fixed-point Hg. Described methods to evaluate propagation of calibration uncertainty based on the fixed-point sensitivity coefficients. The fixed-points sensitivity coefficients for two subranges of standard platinum resistance thermometers calibration are analyzed and it is shown that the calibration uncertainty using the triple point of CO2 is reduced by half in the range of –189.3442...+ 0.01 °C and by 1.5 times in the range of –60...+ 60 °C. The results confirm the possibility and prospects of using the CO2 triple point as a new calibration point to substitute the fixed-point Hg.

Melon seed shell synthesis N, S-carbon quantum dots as ultra-high performance corrosion inhibitors for copper in 0.5 M H2SO4

This work reports on the preparation of N, S-CQDs from melon seed shell, a common household waste that can inhibit the corrosion of copper in a 0.5 M H2SO4 solution. Additionally, by varying the preparation time and preparation temperature, the effects of N, S-CQDs on the capacity of copper to resist corrosion in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution were compared. It was also used to prove its inhibitory effect on copper in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution by a series of test methods. The corrosion inhibition rate of N, S-CQDs was 99.66 % and 99.87 % when the N, S-CQDs prepared at 160 ℃ for 6 h and 200 ℃ for 10 h were added. The results indicate that the corrosion inhibition rate of N, S-CQDs increases with increasing preparation time and temperature. XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) and ATR-FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) were used to describe the composition and functional groups adsorbed on the surface of copper. N, S-CQDs' corrosion inhibition property was demonstrated by using an AFM (Atomic force microscope) and SEM (Scanning electron microscopy) to examine the corrosion surface morphology. Using the Langmuir adsorption model, it was found that the corrosion of copper was inhibited by both physical and chemical adsorption. A number of experimental findings demonstrate that preparation temperature and time impact the degree of carbonization, size, and functional group content of the N, S-CQDs, which in turn influences the corrosion inhibition of the N, S-CQDs. By means of heteroatom adsorption and surface structure, N, S-CQDs generate new chemical coordination bonds on the copper surface, thereby forming a protective layer, reducing the interaction between copper and 0.5 M H2SO4 solution, and generating a corrosion inhibition effect.

Nursing students' and faculty's experiences of first medication administration: A phenomenological inquiry

BackgroundLearning medication administration is essential for nursing students, but the first time can be stressful and shape their clinical development. Previous research primarily focused on student knowledge and technical aspects. PurposeThis phenomenological study helped explore the lived experiences of nursing students and faculty during student's first medication administration in the clinical setting to gain a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives. MethodSemi-structured interviews were conducted with female student and faculty informants (N = 12). Using a phenomenological study, data were analyzed using van Manen's hermeneutic six-step research activity method. ResultsFive overarching themes were found: administrating medication, (un)preparedness for complexities in the clinical environment, transformative experience, overcoming fears, and reaping the rewards. ConclusionFirst-time medication experiences are greater than an exercise in skill proficiency and may be improved if faculty provides more structured learning experiences and take sufficient time for student preparation in relating medication knowledge to the skill, technology usage, and supporting students' attitudes toward nurse-patient interactions. These are essential aspects of the medication administration learning process as nursing programs shift toward competency-based education. Clinical faculty also need support in their role as educators and to be facilitated to find this time, considering their multiple responsibilities.

The Application of Flipped Classroom Based on the Fias Analysis Model in the Online Teaching of Piano Art Instruction

This research investigates the use of the Flipped Classroom (FC) approach, based on the Flanders Interaction Analysis System (FIAS) analysis model, in the online teaching of piano art instruction. The FIAS analysis model is used to analyze the key factors that influence the effectiveness of the flipped classroom approach. The study uses a mixed-methods research design, combining surveys and interviews with students and teachers to gather data on the effectiveness of the flipped classroom approach. The study used piano theory for analysing the interaction analysis. The results indicate that the FC approach, based on the FIAS analysis model, can significantly improve student engagement and learning outcomes in online piano art instruction. The study also identifies several challenges and limitations of the approach, such as the need for adequate preparation time and the need for students to have access to suitable technology and resources. In this study, we have used ANOVA method to analyse the data. Overall, the study provides insights into the potential benefits and challenges of the FC approach in online piano art instruction and offers recommendations for future research and practice.