Processing Steps Research Articles

Few-femtosecond electron transfer dynamics in photoionized donor-π-acceptor molecules.

The exposure of molecules to attosecond extreme-ultraviolet (XUV) pulses offers a unique opportunity to study the early stages of coupled electron-nuclear dynamics in which the role played by the different degrees of freedom is beyond standard chemical intuition. We investigate, both experimentally and theoretically, the first steps of charge-transfer processes initiated by prompt ionization in prototype donor-π-acceptor molecules, namely nitroanilines. Time-resolved measurement of this process is performed by combining attosecond XUV-pump/few-femtosecond infrared-probe spectroscopy with advanced many-body quantum chemistry calculations. We show that a concerted nuclear and electronic motion drives electron transfer from the donor group on a sub-10-fs timescale. This is followed by a sub-30-fs relaxation process due to the probing of the continuously spreading nuclear wave packet in the excited electronic states of the molecular cation. These findings shed light on the role played by electron-nuclear coupling in donor-π-acceptor systems in response to photoionization.

Generation of ex vivo autologous hematopoietic stem cell-derived T lymphocytes for cancer immunotherapy

CD19CAR-T cell therapy demonstrated promising outcomes in relapsed/refractory B-cell malignancies. Nonetheless, the limited T-cell function and ineffective T-cell apheresis for therapeutic purposes are still concern in heavily pretreated patients. We investigated the feasibility of generating hematopoietic stem cell-derived T lymphocytes (HSC-T) for cancer immunotherapy. The patients’ autologous peripheral blood HSCs were enriched for CD34+ and CD3+ cells. The CD34+ cells were then cultured following three steps of lymphoid progenitor differentiation, T-cell differentiation, and T-cell maturation processes. HSC-T cells were successfully generated with robust fold expansion of 3735 times. After lymphoid progenitor differentiation, CD5+ and CD7+ cells remarkably increased (65–84 %) while CD34+ cells consequentially declined. The mature CD3+ cells were detected up to 40 % and 90 % on days 42 and 52, respectively. The majority of HSC-T population was naïve phenotype compared to CD3-T cells (73 % vs 34 %) and CD8:CD4 ratio was 2:1. The higher level of cytokine and cytotoxic granule secretion in HSC-T was observed after activation. HSC-T cells were assessed for clinical application and found that CD19CAR-transduced HSC-T cells demonstrated higher cytokine secretion and a trend of superior cytotoxicity against CD19+ target cells compared to control CAR-T cells. A chronic antigen stimulation assay revealed similar T-cell proliferation, stemness, and exhaustion phenotypes among CAR-T cell types. In conclusions, autologous HSC-T was feasible to generate with preserved T-cell efficacy. The HSC-T cells are potentially utilized as an alternative option for cellular immunotherapy.

Usability study of the qLabs® FIB: A new point-of-care system for functional fibrinogen testing

BackgroundIdentification of hypofibrinogenemia is particularly important in obstetrics since this predicts progression to severe Post-Partum Haemorrhage (PPH). ObjectivesTo evaluate the usability of qLabs® FIB at the bedside of patients with PPH. MethodsThe qLabs® FIB test was performed using a drop of whole blood from a citrated laboratory tube sampled from each parturient with PPH >1 L by a trained user. A usability survey was completed by each clinician performing the test. ResultsDuring the evaluation, 101 qLabs® FIB tests were performed. One hundred completed surveys and 58 free comments were collected. Satisfaction was achieved in 84 % of tests. Usability in emergency setting, timeliness of results, and the results display were considered positive. The qLabs® FIB results were obtained in <3 min for concentrations below 3 g/L whilst the median time to paired laboratory results was 60 (20–120) minutes. The lower a patient's fibrinogen level, the faster the qLabs® FIB result. ConclusionThe usability study was the first step in the validation process of the qLabs® FIB point of care device in obstetric settings.

Higuchi fractal dimension and deep learning on near-infrared spectroscopy for determination of free fatty acid (FFA) content in oil palm fruit

Free fatty acid (FFA) content is an essential parameter with a significant influence on the quality of oil palm, with lower levels showing higher quality. The measurement of this parameter is often carried out with conventional methods in chemical laboratories using solvents and reagents, but these techniques have several limitations. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a rapid and non-destructive technique for determining FFA content based on near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. This technique comprised the use of Higuchi fractal dimension (HFD) and deep learning to process NIR spectra as a new chemometric analysis. The sample population consisted of 350 oil palm fruits at various maturity ages collected from the Cikabayan Oil Palm Plantation. Each sample had its NIR spectrum acquired with a wavelength of 1000–1500 nm. Good performance was shown by a low root mean squared error (RMSE) value and a high coefficient of determination (R2). Based on numerical analysis, this study proposed HFD with a maximum discrete time interval (kmax) value of 10 and deep learning with long short-term memory (LSTM) as a robust architectural model. The results showed that the proposed technique could predict oil palm fruit FFA levels with RMSE and R2 values of 0.167 and 0.959, respectively. Furthermore, it could identify FFA content at each process step, before and after harvesting. Based on these results, its implementation in oil palm control management was expected to enhance effectiveness and efficiency, leading to the production of high-quality products.

Development and evaluation of a self-adaptable planting unit for an autonomous planting process of field vegetables

Today, the number of solutions for automated processes in agriculture is growing rapidly. This is primarily driven by the lack of available and affordable labour, pricing pressures, and regulatory requirements. Vegetable production in particular has a lot of potential for automation, as many process steps, such as planting, are performed partly manually. Fully automated systems for the planting process are characterized by their big size, which is only suitable for large farms. At the same time, these planters typically have a low level of intelligence, which is essential for a fully autonomous planting process performed by autonomous vehicles or robots. The following work therefore deals with the development and construction of a prototype for vegetable planting via a robotic platform. This prototype is designed to meet the requirements of a conventional planter and carry out the planting process automatically using a robotic platform. To ensure a robust robotic planting process, an AI-based control system has been integrated that can detect and adjust the planting quality. For this reason, the planting unit was designed to allow dynamic changes in working depth and furrow width. By dynamically controlling these planting parameters, there is potential for a more sustainable planting process with lower energy requirements. A number of evaluations have been carried out to validate the described characteristics of the prototype planting unit.

Measurement and machining error assessment method for cycloid pump rotor profile based on STEP

Abstract The contour shape and machining precision of the rotor of an cycloid pump directly determine the sealing performance of the pump cavity. Precise measurement of contour machining errors is a crucial step in the manufacturing process. However, rotor contour curves are often designed by enterprises based on actual engineering needs, leading to inconsistency between the measured baseline contour and the designed contour, thus failing to accurately reflect the actual machining condition of the rotor. Therefore, this paper proposes a method for measuring the contour of the cycloid pump rotor and evaluating machining errors based on the standard for the exchange of product (STEP) files necessary for product design in manufacturing. Firstly, utilizing NX/OPEN API functions, contour coordinate points and unit normal vectors are obtained from the rotor’s STEP design data. Subsequently, by planning the process of measuring the closed continuous contour of the rotor, the transformation between the workpiece coordinate system and the measurement coordinate system is achieved to position the tested rotor, followed by analyzing the influence of different starting points on error measurement and evaluation determines the optimal starting point. Finally, a measurement sampling point strategy is established to collect data points of the actual machining contour of the rotor. By achieving the best matching between the actual machining contour and the measured baseline contour, a contour deviation calculation model is established. Utilizing gauge blocks enables accurate assessment of pitch deviation, radial runout, and tooth-to-tooth distance deviation, resulting in assessment results that better fit the actual meshing situation of the rotor. Experimental results verifies consistency between the measurements of the one-dimensional probe and Gleason measurements. This theory and method not only expand the measurement range of the one-dimensional probe but also provide more accurate and efficient guidance for the flexible machining of the rotor.

Constructing S-scheme heterojunction Cs3Bi2Br9/BiOBr via in-situ partial conversion to boost photocatalytic N2 fixation

The judicious construction of interfaces with swift charge communication to enhance the utilization efficiency of photogenerated carriers is a viable strategy for boosting the photocatalytic performance of heterojunctions. Herein, an in-situ partial conversion strategy is reported for decorating lead-free halide perovskite Cs3Bi2Br9 nanocrystals onto BiOBr hollow nanotube, resulting in the formation of an S-scheme heterojunction Cs3Bi2Br9/BiOBr. This unique in-situ growth approach imparts a closely contacted interface to the Cs3Bi2Br9/BiOBr heterojunction, facilitating interfacial electron transfer and spatial charge separation compared to a counterpart (Cs3Bi2Br9:BiOBr) fabricated via traditional electrostatic self-assembly. Additionally, the establishment of an S-scheme charge transfer pathway preserves the robust redox capability of photogenerated carriers. Furthermore, the free electron transfer from Cs3Bi2Br9 to BiOBr promotes the activation of the NN bond and diminishes the energy barrier associated with the rate-determining step in the N2 reduction process. Consequently, the Cs3Bi2Br9/BiOBr heterojunction exhibits highly selective photocatalytic N2 reduction to NH3 (nearly 100 %) at a rate of 130 μmol g−1 h−1 under simulated sunlight (100 mW cm−2), surpassing BiOBr, Cs3Bi2Br9, and Cs3Bi2Br9:BiOBr by factors of 6, 4, and 2, respectively.

Optimal Postextubation Support in Critically Ill Patients: One Size Does Not Fit All.

Extubation is a crucial step in the weaning process of critically ill mechanically ventilated patients. Some patients may develop postextubation respiratory failure that may lead to the need for re-intubation, which is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This review comprehensively explores postextubation respiratory support strategies, focusing on the efficacy of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy and noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in reducing re-intubation rates among various patient populations. HFNC improves oxygenation and reduces the work of breathing. However, its effectiveness in preventing re-intubation varies according to the patient's characteristics and the predefined risk for re-intubation. NIV, alternatively, appears to provide substantial advantages in reducing the rates of re-intubation and respiratory failure, especially in patients with obesity and patients with hypercapnia. Therefore, the indiscriminate application of these support strategies without consideration of individual patient characteristics may not improve outcomes, highlighting the need for careful patient selection and tailored therapeutic strategies based on specific risk factors and clinical conditions. By aligning postextubation respiratory support strategies with patient-specific needs, we may improve the success rates of extubation, enhance overall recovery, and reduce the burden of reintubations in the intensive care setting.

A geospatial approach to delineate lineaments on the granite gneissic terrain of Mpwapwa district, Dodoma, central Tanzania

The study sought to utilise Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing, and a blend of manual and automatic techniques to delineate and analyse the spatial distribution and orientation of lineaments within the terrain of Mpwapwa District. The study employed various techniques, including the Optimum Index Factor (OIF), Band Combination, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and Directional Filtering on the Landsat 8 imagery, and Hill Shading technique was used on Shuttle Radar Topography Mission Digital Elevation Model (SRTM DEM). These techniques were employed in the processing steps for both manual and automatic lineament extraction, utilizing various software tools. Lineament control and validation were executed using digitized geological maps, topographical maps, and Google Earth images.The results revealed lineaments with a total length of 2060.6 km, non-uniformly distributed and predominantly present in hard rock lithologies, such as migmatitic granite, migmatitic biotite gneiss, biotite gneiss, granitoid gneiss, and porphyroblastic gneiss. The findings further indicate that NE-SW and NW-SE are the dominant lineament trends. Additionally, the study revealed that areas with medium, high, and very high lineament density and intersection are primarily located in the southwest and northeast parts of the Mpwapwa District. Meanwhile, regions with low lineament density are spread through the entire district.In this study, GIS and remote sensing emerged as valuable tools for identifying and mapping lineaments within a challenging hydrogeological setting. Findings from this study will serve as a foundational framework for subsequent geological and hydrogeological investigations in the area of study.

Activated carbon derived from Mahachanok mango seeds as a potential material to delay the ripening of mangoes

The mango processing industry in Thailand generates significant waste, with over 60 % consisting of mango seed. Mahachanok mango seeds, a by-product of mango processing, can be processed into highly porous activated carbon with potential application in agricultural and food preservation. This study investigated the potential of activated carbon derived from Mahachanok mango seeds on delaying the ripening of Nam Dok Mai mangoes. The activated carbon was prepared through a two steps process: biochar preparation followed by activation using KMnO4. The morphology of activated carbon was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area, and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The optimal carbonization temperature was determined, and the activated carbon was applied to mango storage. The mango ripening was assessed by measuring weight loss, total color difference (ΔE), firmness, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), and TSS/TA ratio as a ripening level indicator. The optimal carbonization temperature was found to be 500 °C, yielding 25.47 % activated carbon with iodine number of 361.77 mg I2/g AC. The activated surface carbon contained hydroxyl and manganyl groups, with a BET-surface area of 0.649 m2/g. Mangoes stored with 10 g of synthesized activated carbon exhibited the best delay in ripening, extending the ripening process by five days compared to the control. On the 8th day of storage, mangoes became early ripe with firmness and TSS/TA values for 10 g of synthesized activated carbon were 0.467 N/mm and 22.35, respectively (p < 0.05). The TSS/TA ratio indicated that this treatment effectively maintained mango quality for up to 14 days of storage. Activated carbon derived from Mahachanok mango seed shows promising results in delaying mango ripening, especially when used at 10 g dosage. This approach utilized food processing waste to create a valuable product for post-harvest handling, potentially improving the freshness of exported fruit.

Trial‐and‐error: Securing field access for qualitative research in Vietnam

AbstractField access is frequently regarded as a mere practical step in the research process, with insufficient attention given to its broader implications. Numerous writings that focus on gaining field access offer just a collection of practical tips. While these recommendations are valuable, they are specific to each setting and individual experiences. Such an ad hoc approach fosters a limited understanding of the research permit application process and limits the discussion of access by disregarding its inherent uncertainty and its manifold consequences. In authoritarian contexts, obtaining field access remains highly uncertain and can be further complicated by arbitrary decision‐making. This article demonstrates that in Vietnam, social scientists, including anthropologists, must navigate ambiguous processes of trial‐and‐error to secure field access. With the term ‘trial‐and‐error’ we refer to an approach to problem‐solving in which various methods are attempted. Proceeding through trial‐and‐error involves familiarisation, networking, and improvisation. Based on 15 years of experience working in Vietnam we provide evidence that the process of trial‐and‐error is inherent in all three aspects. Beyond the issues surrounding access for foreign researchers, our observations also underscore the pivotal role of trial‐and‐error as a mechanism that Vietnamese citizens employ to navigate the uncertainties and arbitrariness associated with bureaucracy.

Destigmatizing borderline personality disorder with social justice and intersectional cultural humility: How researchers can construct and deconstruct stigma

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a serious psychiatric condition, especially stigmatized in women. Stigma is a social injustice, as it discredits and reduces the wholeness of a person to one of taint and discount. Psychological scientists play a uniquely powerful role in the stigmatization and destigmatization of BPD by constructing the meaning of BPD at each step of the research process. We discuss this powerful role and how to destigmatize BPD by incorporating an intersectionality framework that includes disability as a category of difference (as with gender, race, and sexuality). This framework centers the role of systems and structures in creating and maintaining stigma, while emphasizing the close interactions between interpersonal and structural stigma. This article illustrates researchers’ power to assign meaning to BPD in research and highlights the importance of considering individuals as embedded in intersectional social categories, which are multidimensional and dynamic in nature. We propose that intersectional cultural humility, with its social justice aim and feminist origins, can guide BPD researchers to conduct nonstigmatizing and rigorous research on BPD. To inform clinical practice and advance social justice, we offer action steps for researchers to destigmatize BPD with intersectional cultural humility at multiple steps in the research process.

Ameliorated Fick’s law algorithm based multi-threshold medical image segmentation

Medical image segmentation is a critical and demanding step in medical image processing, which provides a solid foundation for subsequent medical image data extraction and analysis. Multi-threshold image segmentation, one of the most commonly used and specialized image segmentation techniques, limits its application to medical images because it requires demanding computational performance and is difficult to produce satisfactory segmentation results. To overcome the above problems, an ameliorated Fick's law algorithm (MsFLA) for multi-threshold image segmentation is developed in this paper. First, an optimized sine–cosine strategy is introduced to extend the molecular diffusion process to alleviate the problem of easily falling into local optima, thus improving the convergence accuracy of the Fick's law algorithm (FLA). Secondly, the introduction of local minimal value avoidance enriches the individual molecular information and enhances the local search ability, thus improving computational accuracy. In addition, the optimal neighborhood learning strategy is added to ensure a more careful and reasonable reliance on the optimal solution, thus reducing the chance of convergence of a local solution. The efficient optimization capability of MsFLA is comprehensively validated by comparing MsFLA with the original FLA and other algorithms in 23 classical benchmark functions. Finally, MsFLA is applied to image segmentation of grayscale images of COVID-19 and brain and color images of Lung and Colon cancer histopathology by using Cross entropy to validate its segmentation capability. The experimental results show that the MsFLA obtains the best segmentation results in three medical image cases compared to other comparison algorithms, which indicates that MsFLA can effectively solve the multi-threshold medical image segmentation problem.Graphical abstract

The spinal cord injury (SCI) peer support evaluation tool: the development of a tool to assess outcomes of peer support programs within SCI community-based organizations.

Guided by the 4-step process outlined in the Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) guideline, multiple methodologies were used: Delphi, literature reviews, ratings with consensus, think-aloud, and test-retest. The purpose of this study was to develop and test a spinal cord injury (SCI) peer support evaluation tool that meets the needs of community-based SCI organizations in Canada. Peer support programs for people with SCI delivered by community-based SCI organizations. This research was co-constructed with executives and staff from SCI community-based organizations, people with SCI, researchers, and students. Given the multiple steps of this study, sample size and characteristics varied based on each step. Participants included people with SCI who received peer support (mentees) or provided peer support (mentors/supporters) and staff of community-based organizations. In step 1, the 20 most important outcomes for SCI peer support were identified. In step 2 and 3, the 97 items were identified to assess the outcomes and by using rating and multiple consensus methodologies 20 items, one to assess each outcome, were selected. In step 4, content and face validity and test-retest reliability were achieved. The resulting SCI Peer Support Evaluation Tool consists of 20single-item questions to assess 20 outcomes of SCI peer support. Through a systematic process, the SCI Peer Support Evaluation Tool is now ready to be implemented to assess outcomes of SCI peer support programs delivered by community-based SCI organizations.

Abstract A150: Improving FIT and colonoscopy animated videos for colorectal cancer screening: An application of learner verification and revision

Abstract Latino adults in the U.S. have low rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. Using at-home fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) can improve screening rates. This study builds upon three-minute instructional animated videos originally created by the Colorectal Cancer Prevention Network that our team previously translated into Spanish. In the current study, we employed a user-centered approach, known as learner verification and revision (LV&amp;R), to elicit patients’ input on the videos. These videos will be used as part of a text-based intervention aimed at increasing FIT use among Latino adults aged 45-54. This study was part of a larger trial, Community Partnership for Telehealth Solutions to Counter Misinformation and Achieve Equity (PRIME), which aims to test an intervention that integrates the videos with social-needs navigation to boost CRC screening within Latino communities. LV&amp;R integrates theories of health communication and qualitative research to tailor interventions to the needs of target populations. To solicit feedback on the two videos (one on FIT, one on colonoscopy), we interviewed 24 patients (46% male) from a large urban community clinic in Los Angeles. Patients were age-eligible for CRC screening, had been mailed a FIT, texted a link to the videos, and spoke English or Spanish (54% preferred Spanish). Interviews asked about acceptability, comprehension, actionability, and cultural relevance of the videos among our target audience. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and summarized using rapid qualitative analysis techniques. Interviews revealed positive perceptions of both videos' accessibility, content, and appeal. Participants appreciated the videos’ straightforward language and clear instructions, which were found to be culturally and linguistically acceptable across English and Spanish-speakers. The videos were viewed as informative and persuasive, motivating participants to consider or complete CRC screening and share videos with others. The videos aided in dispelling misinformation related to screening with FIT and/or colonoscopy, particularly for those who had never screened for CRC. Participants liked the length of the videos along with use of appropriate humor to convey complex steps in the screening process. Participants suggested minor improvements such as adding language related to bowel prep, screening guidelines, communication of results, and reassuring language to help with fears to enhance the videos' effectiveness. Overall, these findings underscore the importance of culturally responsive, informative, and engaging materials in promoting CRC screening awareness and participation. Latino patients reported high acceptability, persuasiveness, helpfulness, and cultural appropriateness of animated videos sent via text to educate patients about FIT and colonoscopy. Suggestions for improvement centered on providing more facts about CRC, emphasizing that both men and women are at risk, adding reassuring language to encourage individuals to overcome any fears, and providing more resources for further information. Citation Format: Jennifer S. Rivelli, Jennifer L. Schneider, Blake W. Locher, Katherine A. Vaughn, Meagan C. Shaw, Gloria D. Coronado, Esmeralda Ruiz, Jamie H. Thompson, Anne Escaron. Improving FIT and colonoscopy animated videos for colorectal cancer screening: An application of learner verification and revision [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A150.

Knowledge of Artisanal Potash Based on Agricultural Produce in Cote d’Ivoire

Artisanal potash is a product derived from the co-products of foods consumed in households and agricultural crops. The main objective of this study is to identify the different co-products used for the production of potash and the different process of manufacturing artisanal potash and the different areas of use thereof. To carry out our work a survey has been completed in seven cities of Côte d'Ivoire from March 2020 to 20 March 2021. Sixty-five people have been interrogated from an already pre-established question in order to collect their knowledge of artisanal potash. The questionnaire and data processing were performed using the Sphinx software. The co-products used for the manufacture of potash are various, and the most used are cocoa (13.8%) and coffee pane (12.3%). As for the manufacturing processes, the different processes listed are identical irrespective of the co-product used. The steps of the artisanal manufacturing process are: the co-product collection chooses, the incineration, the anchorage of the ashes, the draining, the separation of the nerve and the supernatant, the preparation and solidification of the potash. Also, potash is used in various fields. It is more used in the food field with a proportion of 90.8%. Agricultural co-produces used for the manufacture of artisanal potash are various and the manufacturing processes are identical. Knowledge of co-producers and the optimization of the manufacturing process of artisanal potash is a necessity for rural populations and the valuation of co-producers is a means of protecting the environment and economics.

Supply chain risk management (SCRM) process: an analysis in the aerospace industry

PurposeThe study analysed the aerospace industry, a traditionally important sector for the topic of risk management, from three complementary perspectives: the supply chain risks present in the sector, the mitigation strategies adopted to face them, and the characteristics (dimensions) observed in the SCRM process of aerospace companies.Design/methodology/approachThe research employed a quali–quantitative method: a survey was carried out, followed by interviews with professionals from companies belonging to different tiers of aerospace supply chains. Interviews helped to interpret the survey data and understand in more detail risk management in aerospace companies.FindingsThe study presents a panorama of the aerospace industry in terms of risk management. The sector’s turbulent environment is described as well as the strategies to prevent, minimise or postpone the impact of supply chain risks. In particular, ten dimensions that have been identified in the SCRM process of aerospace firms are discussed. These characteristics influence the objectives of this process and are related to resources, roles and responsibilities, incentives, development of competences and skills, scope (internal and external) and approaches to integrate decisions and actions in the context of the supply chain.Originality/valueArticles that address the SCRM process usually focus on the process steps, whereas this study investigated dimensions that transcend these steps but whose discussion in the literature is still fragmented. It also analysed a reference sector for the topic from a broader perspective than others available in the literature (supply chain risks, mitigation strategies and characteristics of the SCRM process). Supply chain members with relationships with each other were investigated, a desirable approach for SCRM but still under-explored. The study also answers calls for industry-specific studies and research on emerging countries.

Enhanced Feedstock Processability for the Indirect Additive Manufacturing of Metals by Material Extrusion through Ethylene-Propylene Copolymer Modification.

Filament-based material extrusion (MEX) represents one of the most commonly used additive manufacturing techniques for polymer materials. In a special variation of this process, highly filled polymer filaments are used to create metal parts via a multi-step process. The challenges associated with creating a dense final part are versatile due to the different and partly contrary requirements of the individual processing steps. Especially for processing in MEX, the compound must show sufficiently low viscosity, which is often achieved by the addition of wax. However, wax addition also leads to a significant reduction in ductility. This can cause filaments to break, which leads to failure of the MEX process. Therefore, the present study investigates the influence of different ethylene-propylene copolymers (EPCs) with varying ethylene contents as a ductility-enhancing component within the feedstock to improve filament processing behavior. The resulting feedstock materials are evaluated regarding their mechanical, thermal and debinding behavior. In addition, the processability in MEX is assessed. This study shows that a rising ethylene content within the EPC leads to a higher ductility and an enhanced filament flexibility while also influencing the crystallization behavior of the feedstock. For the MEX process, an ethylene fraction of 12% within the EPC was found to be the optimum regarding processability for the highly filled filaments in MEX and the additional processing steps to create sintered metal parts.

Way forward in improving Rhinoplasty Outcomes.

Rhinoplasty is an elective surgical procedure required by the patient to attain an aesthetic and functional improvement of the nose. The degree of expectancy of the patient - and the surgeon - to the outcome of rhinoplasty is usually high, and any result under perfection may be seen as a failure. Consistently achieving good results in rhinoplasty requires thorough attention from the surgeon to every step of the rhinoplasty process. Fully understanding of patient's desires, careful preoperative evaluation of the face and proper selection of patients is crucial towards improving rhinoplasty outcomes. Furthermore, an individually tailored surgical planning according to the unique features of the specific case, preferring remodeling over resection surgical techniques and reinforcing nasal framework support and careful surgical execution will likely ensure a satisfactory and long-lasting surgical outcome of rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty requires a lifelong dedication of the surgeon for providing the best outcomes to the patients that trust their noses to his or her surgical skills. The rhinoplasty surgeon has been labeled the "eternal student" and this should reflect the delicacy and the humbleness of the rhinoplasty surgeon.

The contractile efficiency of the mantle muscle of European common cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) during cyclical contractions

Escape jet propulsion swimming in cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) is powered by the circular muscles surrounding the mantle cavity. This mode of locomotion is energetically costly compared to undulatory swimmers. The energetic cost of swimming is determined by the mechanical power requirements and the efficiency with which chemical energy is transferred into useful mechanical work. One step in this energy transduction process is the transfer of energy from ATP hydrolysis into mechanical work by the muscles. Here, we determined the efficiency of this step, termed the contractile efficiency. Muscle preparations from the circular muscles of the mantle cavity were subjected to sinusoidal length changes at different cycle frequencies, and stimulated with a phase and duration that maximised initial net work. Changes in ATP, arginine phosphate and octopine content between control and exercised muscles were determined and used to calculate the energy released from ATP hydrolysis (Emet). The maximum contractile efficiency (the ratio of net work to Emet) was 0.37, occurring at the same cycle frequency at which mechanical power was maximal and that was used during jet propulsion swimming, suggesting that cuttlefish muscle is adapted to generate muscular power efficiently. The overall efficiency of cuttlefish jet propulsion swimming was estimated to be 0.17, which is broadly comparable to that measured during animal flight and human-powered pedalled locomotion, indicating the high energetic costs of jet propulsion swimming are not due to inefficient locomotion per se, instead, they result from the relatively high mechanical power requirements.