bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collective swimming pattern and synchronization of fish pairs (Gobiocypris rarus) in response to flow with different velocities
Authors: Yang Fan , Zeng Yuhong
Published: October 2024

Collective behaviors in moving fish originate from social interactions, which are thought to be driven by beneficial factors, such as predator avoidance and reduced energy expenditure. Despite numerical simulations and physical experiments aiming at the hydrodynamic mechanisms and interaction rules, how shoaling is influenced by flow velocity and group size is still only partially understood. In this study, spatial distributions, kinematics, and synchronization states between pairs (smallest subsystem of a shoal) of Gobiocypris rarus were investigated in a recirculating swim tunnel with increasing flow velocities from 0.1 to 0.5 m/s (Ucrit = 0.6 m/s). Tests of single fish were also conducted as the control group. The results of spatial distributions showed that fish pairs preferred to swim in the side‐by‐side configuration under high flows, while under low flows the neighboring fish's positions were more uniformly distributed around the focal fish in the transverse direction. Kinematic analysis revealed that fish pairs adopted similar tail beats (i.e., frequency and Strouhal number) as single fish in low flows, while in high flows both the frequency and Strouhal number of fish pairs were slightly lower. Moreover, the synchronization rates of fish pairs were found to increase with flow velocities, suggesting that synchronized swimming may be beneficial, especially in high flows.
The effects of bank mergers on listed U.S. borrowers
Authors: Ji Shuangshuang , Mauer David C. , Zhang Yilei
Published: October 2024

We examine the effects of U.S. bank mergers on listed U.S. borrowers. Target bank borrowers receive lower loan spreads and no change in loan amount post‐merger in comparison to pre‐merger. In contrast, acquiring bank borrowers receive an increase in loan amount and a relatively small decrease in loan spread in the post‐merger period. Analysis shows that these benefits are available only when borrowers have bargaining power through lending relationships with non‐merging banks. We examine how borrower size, merger type, bank size, and borrower relationship intensity affect our results. Overall, our analysis suggests that efficiency gains from bank consolidation outweigh market power effects.
Prevalence of orthopaedic conditions in Rett syndrome: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Galán‐Olleros M. , González‐Alguacil E. , Soto‐Insuga V. , Vara‐Arias M. T. , Ortiz‐Cabrera N. V. , Egea‐Gámez R. M. , García‐Peñas J. J. , Martínez‐Caballero I. ,   RTT‐HNJ, Rett Syndrome Multidisciplinary Group of Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús
Published: October 2024

Background

Rett syndrome (RTT), a developmental disorder primarily affecting girls and linked to methyl‐CpG binding protein‐2 (MECP2) gene mutations, presents musculoskeletal abnormalities with varying prevalence across studies and age groups. Our aim was to delineate the prevalence of orthopaedic conditions in individuals with RTT.

Method

Three databases were searched and independently screened by two reviewers to retrieve observational studies published after 2000 that recruited 10 or more patients diagnosed with RTT and reported the prevalence of any orthopaedic conditions (scoliosis, hip displacement, knee problems or foot deformities). A random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed to determine the pooled prevalence based on study weight.

Results

Of 867 screened studies, 21 studies involving 9997 girls with RTT (mean age 14.1 years; range, 3–38.5) met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of scoliosis was 64.5% [95% confidence interval (CI) 55.4–73.6%; I2 = 99%; P < 0.01], of hip displacement was 29.6% (95% CI 8.9–50.2%; I2 = 97%; P < 0.01) and of foot deformities was 53% (95% CI 17.5–89.2%; I2 = 98%; P < 0.01). Knee problems were reported in only one study. Scoliosis prevalence increased in studies with a high percentage of genetic testing and MECP2 positivity [69.1% (95% CI 58.9–79.2%; I2 = 99%; P < 0.01)], those with a mean age over 13 years [73% (95% CI 59.1–87%; I2 = 100%; P < 0.01)], and studies combining both variables [80.13% (95% CI 70.8–89.4%; I2 = 81%; P < 0.01)].

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis found that approximately two in three girls with RTT develop scoliosis, one in two exhibit foot deformities and one in three experience hip displacement. These findings enhance our understanding of the prevalence of orthopaedic conditions in RTT, which can guide the establishment of surveillance protocols, clinical guidelines and management strategies tailored to the needs of RTT patients.
It Takes a Village: Translating Management Ideas through an Ecology of Roles
Authors: Elmholdt Kasper Trolle , Nielsen Jeppe Agger , Wæraas Arild , Meyer Renate
Published: October 2024

Although research has provided valuable insights into how management ideas circulate across contexts and undergo translation, the prevailing focus remains on the one‐directional journey from idea suppliers to adopting entities. In contrast, we advance an ecology of roles perspective to capture the dynamic relationships between multiple actors and roles in the translation process. To develop our argument, we draw from a 10‐year case study examining how the US‐born management idea of the leadership pipeline was translated into a domesticated version in Denmark, which became widely adopted but also contested and renewed. In analysing this case, we show how the same actors assumed an array of interdependent roles that dynamically shifted over time to circulate the idea. We identify three characteristics of an ecology of translation roles: multiplicity of roles, morphing of roles, and reciprocal authorization of roles. By advancing an ecology of roles perspective, our study contributes novel insights to the expanding literature on translation and recent work on translation ecosystems.
Patient Participation in Multidisciplinary Team Meetings in Residential Mental Health Services: An Explorative Study of Patients' Perception
Authors: Berben Kevin , Van Hecke Ann , Verhaeghe Sofie , Dierckx Eva
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The lack of evidence of mental health patients' perception on patient participation in multidisciplinary team meetings (MTMs) is a potential threat to the person‐centeredness of care.

Aim

To explore the perceptions of mental health patients regarding patient participation in MTMs and to identify factors associated with these perceptions.

Method

In a cross‐sectional study, 127 former and 109 currently admitted mental health patients completed the Patient Participation during Team Meetings Questionnaire (PaPaT‐Q). The STROBE‐checklist was used for reporting the study.

Results

Overall, patients' perceptions were positive. Former patients expressed greater willingness to participate in MTMs, considered participation as more important, and felt more competent. These patients also exhibited a stronger preference for an autonomous role in medical decision making when participating in MTMs. The perception varied across factors such as gender, educational level, nature of psychological complaints and prior experience(s) with participation in MTMs.

Discussion

These findings may help mental healthcare professionals to become more aware to factors associated with mental health patients' perception of patient participation in MTMs.

Implications

The results can be used by mental healthcare professionals to motivate mental health patients in an even more tailor‐made basis to participate in MTMs when admitted in a hospital.
The effects of daylight saving time clock changes on accelerometer‐measured sleep duration in the UK Biobank
Authors: de Lange Melanie A. , Richmond Rebecca C. , Birnie Kate , Shapland Chin Yang , Tilling Kate , Davies Neil M.
Published: October 2024

We explored the effects of daylight saving time clock changes on sleep duration in a large accelerometer dataset. Our sample included UK Biobank participants (n = 11,780; aged 43–78 years) with accelerometer data for one or more days during the 2 weeks surrounding the Spring and Autumn daylight saving time transitions from October 2013 and November 2015. Between‐individual t‐tests compared sleep duration on the Sunday (midnight to midnight) of the clock changes with the Sunday before and the Sunday after. We also compared sleep duration on all other days (Monday–Saturday) before and after the clock changes. In Spring, mean sleep duration was 65 min lower on the Sunday of the clock changes than the Sunday before (95% confidence interval −72 to −58 min), and 61 min lower than the Sunday after (95% confidence interval −69 to −53). In Autumn, the mean sleep duration on the Sunday of the clock changes was 33 min higher than the Sunday before (95% confidence interval 27–39 min), and 38 min higher than the Sunday after (95% confidence interval 32–43 min). There was some evidence of catch‐up sleep after both transitions, with sleep duration a little higher on the Monday–Friday than before, although this was less pronounced in Autumn. Future research should use large datasets with longer periods of accelerometer wear to capture sleep duration before and after the transition in the same individuals, and examine other aspects of sleep such as circadian misalignment, sleep fragmentation or daytime napping.
Complementary feeding practices and nutritional status in infants living in Turkey: Iowa infant feeding attitude scale and complementary feeding index
Authors: Meral Koc Bilge , Ozlu Karahan Tugce , Arslan Yuksel Ezgi , Garipoglu Gokcen
Published: October 2024

Although complementary feeding (CF) and maternal attitudes towards infant feeding are known to affect the nutritional status of infants during the neonatal period, studies in this field remain limited. The present study aimed to determine CF practices for infants aged 6–12 months who live in Turkey and maternal attitudes towards infant feeding. In addition, the effects of CF practices and maternal attitudes on the nutritional status of infants were examined. This study included 720 infants, of whom 289 were aged 6–8 months and 431 were aged 9–12 months. CF status was assessed using the CF index (CFI), and maternal attitudes towards infant feeding were measured using the Iowa infant feeding attitude scale (IIFAS). The weight and length measurements of infants were categorized using z‐scores. Infants with weight‐for‐age z‐score (WAZ) and weight‐for‐length z‐score (WLZ) of less than −2 standard deviation were categorized as malnourished. Mothers of malnourished infants were found to have lower CFI and IIFAS scores (p < 0.05). Consistency of fruit feeding and complementary foods in the first 3 days of CF was associated with WAZ. The mothers' level of knowledge about CF and appropriate CF practices significantly affects the nutritional status of infants. The tools used in the present study to monitor CF practices should be incorporated into public health programmes.
Strengthening implementation of integrated care for small and nutritionally at‐risk infants under six months and their mothers: Pre‐trial feasibility study
Authors: McGrath Marie , Girma Shimelis , Berhane Melkamu , Abera Mubarek , Hailu Endashaw , Bathorp Hatty , Grijalva‐Eternod Carlos , Woldie Mirkuzie , Abdissa Alemseged , Girma Tsinuel , Kerac Marko , Smythe Tracey
Published: October 2024

An integrated care pathway to manage small and nutritionally at‐risk infants under 6 months (u6m) and their mothers (MAMI Care Pathway) is consistent with 2023 WHO malnutrition guidelines and is being tested in a randomised controlled trial (RCT) in Ethiopia. To optimise trial implementation, we investigated contextual fit with key local stakeholders. We used scenario‐based interviews with 17 health workers and four district managers to explore perceived feasibility. Eighteen policymakers were also surveyed to explore policy coherence, demand, acceptability, evidence needs, opportunities and risks. The Bowen feasibility framework and an access to health care framework were adapted and applied. Health workers perceived the MAMI Care Pathway as feasible to implement with support to access services and provide care. The approach is acceptable, given consistency with national policies, local protocols and potential to improve routine care quality. Demand for more comprehensive, preventive and person‐centred outpatient care was driven by concerns about unmet, hidden and costly care burden for health services and families. Inpatient care only for severe wasting treatment is inaccessible and unacceptable. Support for routine and expanded components, especially maternal mental health, is needed for successful implementation. Wider contextual factors may affect implementation fidelity and strength. Policymakers cautiously welcomed the approach, which resonates with national commitments, policies and plans but need evidence on how it can work within varied, complex contexts without further system overstretch. A responsive, pragmatic randomised controlled trial will generate the most useful evidence for policymakers. Findings have informed trial preparation and implementation, including a realist evaluation to contextualise outcomes.
The costs and the potential allocation of costs of bouillon fortification: The cases of Nigeria, Senegal, and Burkina Faso
Authors: Vosti Stephen A. , Jarvis Michael , Anjorin Olufolakemi Mercy , Engle‐Stone Reina , Beye Maguette , Ishaya Faith , Koudougou Karim , Oni Blessing , Somda Hervé , Adams Katherine P.
Published: October 2024

Food and condiment fortification programs are needed to address micronutrient deficiencies and their health, developmental, and mortality consequences; but these programs are never free. Knowing program costs and their allocation across stakeholders is essential to design and manage effective, efficient, and sustainable programs. We developed 10‐year hypothetical bouillon fortification program cost models for Nigeria, Senegal, and Burkina Faso that included start‐up and operational costs for government and industry, as well as premix costs generated by an embedded premix cost calculator to allow for alternative premix formulas in cost calculations. The main drivers of total costs were total bouillon consumption and the types and amounts of fortificants in the micronutrient premix. For a premix that meets 30% of Codex Nutrient Reference Values in 2.5 g of bouillon for vitamin A, folate, vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, the cost per metric ton of fortified bouillon was ∼$325 for all countries (∼$0.01 per 2.5 g serving). Annual start‐up costs ranged from ∼$324k (Burkina Faso) to ∼$455k (Nigeria); nonpremix annual operating costs ranged from ∼$108k (Burkina Faso) to ∼$3.9m (Nigeria); and annual premix costs varied from ∼$2.4m (Burkina Faso) to ∼$76m (Nigeria). In policy discussions, program costs should be set alongside nutritional benefits.
Graft Loss in Pediatric and Young Adult Kidney Transplantation in New Zealand: Who Is at Greatest Risk and When?
Authors: Selvathesan N. , Han D. Y. , Palmer S. C. , Dickens A. , Manley P. , Prestidge C.
Published: October 2024

Background

Much is reported regarding the detrimental effect of transfer to adult services for adolescent and young adult (AYA) kidney transplant (KT) recipients. However, AYA recipient age independent of time post‐KT, and not relating to transfer of care, is also a strong predictor of graft loss. We assessed KT graft survival if experiencing solely pediatric (PO) or adult services (AO) versus transfer from pediatric to adult services (PTA).

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis of all first kidney transplant recipients between birth—24 years of age, from 2000 to 2019 in New Zealand. Participant identification and data were obtained via the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplantation registry. Primary outcome was graft survival stratified by service type. Cox proportional hazard modeling assessed independent risk factors of graft loss.

Results

Two hundred forty‐four children and AYA with a median follow‐up of 7.3 years were included. Graft survival stratified by service provision group was not different. The incidence rate of graft loss was 37, 34, and 45 per 1000 persons per year for PO, PTA, and AO respectively. Crude age‐specific graft failure rates were highest for 22–24‐year‐olds with inferior outcomes starting from age 16, peaking at 24 years.

Conclusions

Older adolescence and young adulthood reflect a high‐risk period for KT loss. Transfer to adult services was not associated with worse graft survival compared to those experiencing either AO or PO alone. Improved models of care are needed to improve graft survival in this vulnerable population within New Zealand.
Identification of autophagy gene family in potato and the role of StATG8a in salt and drought stress
Authors: Zhu Xi , Majeed Yasir , Zhang Ning , Li Wei , Duan Huimin , Dou Xuemei , Jin Hui , Chen Zhuo , Chen Shu , Zhou Jiannan , Wang Qihua , Tang Jinghua , Zhang Yu , Si Huaijun
Published: October 2024

Autophagy is a highly conserved method of recycling cytoplasm components in eukaryotes. It plays an important role in plant growth and development, as well as in response to biotic and abiotic stresses. Although autophagy‐related genes (ATGs) have been identified in several crop species, their particular role in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) remains unclear. Several transcription factors and signaling genes in the transgenic lines of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, such as AtTSPO, AtBES1, AtPIP2;7, AtCOST1 as well as AtATI1/2, ATG8f, GFP‐ATG8F‐HA, AtDSK2, AtNBR1, AtHKT1 play crucial functions under drought and salt stresses, respectively. In this study, a total of 29 putative StATGs from 15 different ATG subfamilies in the potato genome were identified. Their physicochemical properties, evolutionary connections, chromosomal distribution, gene duplication, protein–protein interaction network, conserved motifs, gene structure, interspecific collinearity relationship, and cis‐regulatory elements were analyzed. The results of qRT‐PCR detection of StATG expression showed that 29 StATGs were differentially expressed in potato's leaves, flowers, petiole, stem, stolon, tuber, and root. StATGs were dynamically modulated by salt and drought stresses and up‐regulated under salt and drought conditions. Our results showed that the StATG8a localized in the cytoplasm and the nucleus. Potato cultivar “Atlantic” overexpressing or downregulating StATG8a were constructed. Based on physiological, biochemical, and photosynthesis parameters, potato lines overexpressing StATG8a exhibited 9 times higher drought and salt tolerance compared to non‐transgenic plants. In contrast, the potato plants with knockdown expression showed a downtrend in drought and salt tolerance compared to non‐transgenic potato lines. These results could provide new insights into the function of StATG8a in salt and drought response and its possible mechanisms.
On extensions of the Jacobson–Morozov theorem to even characteristic
Authors: Stewart David I. , Thomas Adam R.
Published: October 2024

Let be a simple algebraic group over an algebraically closed field of characteristic 2. We consider analogues of the Jacobson–Morozov theorem in this setting. More precisely, we classify those nilpotent elements with a simple 3‐dimensional Lie overalgebra in and also those with overalgebras isomorphic to the algebras and . This leads us to calculate the dimension of the Lie automiser for all nilpotent orbits; in even characteristic this quantity is very sensitive to isogeny.
Impact of Fluid Rheology and Density Ratio in Droplet Collision: A Numerical Investigation
Authors: Kant Krishna , Rajesh Reddy S. , Banerjee R.
Published: October 2024

This research delves into the intricate interplay of fluid rheology, characterized by the power-law model, and density ratio ρr=ρl/ρg in the context of droplet collision dynamics. The power-law index (n) is systematically varied within the range of 0.5–1.5, while the density ratio spans 2 orders of magnitude, ranging from 101 to 103. Comprehensive investigations are conducted across various impact parameters (B = 0–0.75) and Weber numbers (We = 40–160). A noteworthy finding is the cessation of droplet coalescence at elevated Weber numbers (We = 160), revealing a critical threshold beyond which coalescence is no longer sustained. The impact of fluid rheology on internal fluid flow dynamics within the complex droplet structure is substantial. The variation in viscous dissipation with (n) contributes to observable changes in the critical wavelength of the complex droplet rim structure, consequently influencing the size of child droplets. Furthermore, the density ratio is a pivotal factor influencing the deformation rate during collision events. A decrease in density ratio correlates with a reduction in the deformation ratio, shedding light on the significant role of density ratio in shaping the dynamics of droplet collisions.
Effects of Absorption on the Tribological Properties of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polyamide-6 Composites Manufactured by Fused Deposition Modeling
Authors: Zhang Z. , Chang L.
Published: October 2024

The present work studied the water absorption behavior of polymeric composite materials fabricated using 3D printing technology, as well as its effect on their tribological properties. Polyamide-6 was selected as the base matrix material. Short and continuous carbon fibers are used as the reinforced material. The results showed that the moisture absorption would impair the mechanical properties of polymer matrix and interface bonding between the fiber and the matrix. As a result, the tensile strength of the fiber reinforced polymer composites (FRPCs) decreases with water absorption. Nevertheless, the effects of moisture absorption on the wear properties of FRPCs are more complicated, which are depending on the fiber length and sliding conditions. With the short fiber reinforcements, moisture absorption deteriorated the wear resistance under all the testing conditions. With the increase of moisture level, more severe fiber damage/removal was observed, associated with the higher wear loss. With a relative high volume fracture of continuous carbon fiber (∼35 vol%), however, the wear resistance of the FRPC increased with moisture level, especially under a relatively low load. Based on microscopic observations, it was proposed that water inside FRPC specimens is able to provide the lubricating and cleaning effects, which contribute to a lower friction and smooth worn surfaces. The work provides new insights into designing and selecting printed polymer materials, subjected to different loading conditions.
Leakage Control Mechanisms and Strategies for Hydraulically Driven Controllable Rod Seals
Authors: Wang Bingqing , Li Xiaoxuan , Li Yuntang , Peng Xudong , Chen Yuan , Li Xiaolu
Published: October 2024

The primary function of rod seals in hydraulic systems is to prevent the leakage of the hydraulic medium, which would otherwise result in environmental pollution and the loss of energy. However, the leakage control performance of conventional rod seals is limited by the level of product design. As a result, the performance of these seals will gradually degrade during the service process. Furthermore, it is not possible to adaptively adjust the performance of these seals in response to changes in operating conditions. Hydraulically controllable rod seals (HCRS) can be driven hydraulically to adjust the internal stress distribution of the seal to regulate the sealing performance. This may be an effective solution, although the leakage control mechanism and strategy remain unclear. This paper employs a thermoelastohydrodynamic mixed lubrication model to comparatively analyze the behaviors and performances of the HCRS with or without a cavity structure. The leakage control mechanism of the HCRS is revealed, namely that it is achieved by increasing the interface contact pressure and reducing the fluid film thickness through external pressurization. Furthermore, the functional relationship between the sealing performance and the regulating variables under different operating conditions is obtained through multivariate regression analysis, thereby forming the quantitative leakage control strategy of the HCRS.
Methods for Remaining Useful Life Prognosis of Adhesively Bonded Composite Structures
Authors: Zhang Yang , Radzieński Maciej , Ostachowicz Wiesław
Published: October 2024

This paper introduces a novel approach for assessing damage and predicting the remaining useful life (RUL) of adhesively bonded fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) structures. It combines fracture mechanics (FM) and deep learning (DL) techniques grounded to emulate the fatigue and damage behaviors of the adhesively bonded composite material. Furthermore, the paper presents a crack growth simulation methodology that merges the extended finite element method (XFEM) and fracture mechanics to theoretically predict damage extent. It redefines the relationship between bonded area degradation and fatigue cycles by considering crack propagation direction. Lastly, the paper leverages a database of hybrid model samples to integrate Dropout and Monte Carlo methods, replacing traditional Bayesian dynamic network quantification of uncertainty. This enhancement allows the DL network to generate the RUL along with an associated confidence interval for uncertainty. The results underscore the advantages of this hybrid model in accurately predicting RUL and identifying damage in FRP structures.
Assessing Impact-Related Damage in Urban Air Mobility with Acoustic Emission Sensing
Authors: Ai Li , Mesaric Tanner , Flowers Sydney , Widawsky Joshua , Houck Sydney , Banerjee Sourav , Ziehl Paul
Published: October 2024

The integrity and reliability of composite components for Urban Air Mobility (UAM) is critical to operational safety and performance. A significant challenge to maintaining this integrity comes from airborne particulate impacts, which can lead to unforeseen damage and degradation. Timely and accurate monitoring and assessment of such impact damage is a critical requirement for safe operations. This paper introduces a novel in-flight impact assessment methodology employing acoustic emission sensing technology. The focus of the approach is to evaluate the extent of impact damage on a given UAM component by scrutinizing the acoustic emission signals generated under in-flight stress conditions. A sophisticated algorithm, based on the Gradient Boosting Decision Tree model, is proposed to estimate the probability that the damage sustained by a component belongs to different damage classes. A series of composite material panels were fabricated and exposed to impacts at various energy levels. Subsequently, C-scan imaging was conducted on the intermediate regions, followed by a series of Compression After Impact (CAI) tests. The entire CAI testing process was monitored using acoustic emission sensors. The acoustic emission signals collected from the CAI testing provided preliminary validation for the approach proposed in this paper, demonstrating its potential feasibility in assessing impact damage.
Eddy Current Probe Design for Graphite Pebble Inspection in Advanced Reactors
Authors: Elmer Thomas , Koehl Eugene , Gariazzo Claudio , Bakhtiari Sasan
Published: October 2024

This paper describes the exploration of eddy current (EC) inspection in its application to graphite pebbles. These pebbles are being used at Argonne National Laboratory (Argonne) as simulated fuel elements in high temperature reactor (HTR) design concepts. Eddy current inspection is a fast and economical non-destructive evaluation (NDE) technique that can detect flaws, impregnations, or manufactured discontinuities in the outer layer of graphite pebbles. Rapid testing for sorting pebbles is crucial when dealing with quantities of pebbles in the hundreds of thousands. In the existing paradigm, pebble batches can be sorted using their radioactivity levels, however, conventional radioactivity level sensors typically require lower operating temperatures, and therefore time for the pebbles to cool. With the current developments in high temperature EC probes, this NDE method could considerably reduce the downtime required for the sorting of marked pebbles under harsh environments. This paper describes the numerical electromagnetic modeling results and measurements on a sample pebble, which are used to optimize the EC probe design and frequency selection. We also present experimental data collected on a sample pebble with a thin film surface array probe, demonstrating the capability to detect flaws in the outer graphite layer of the pebble. We conclude that EC inspection is a promising technique for rapid and reliable testing of graphite pebbles for HTR applications.
3D Tomography of Hydrogen and Helium Plasma Produced in the Proto-Sphera Experiment
Authors: Pau Annamaria , Naghinajad Shayesteh , Alladio Franco , Micozzi Paolo , Boncagni Luca
Published: October 2024

We propose an approach to image reconstruction based on a formulation of the Fourier slice theorem in 3D, which relates a set of projections onto planes -or 3D Radon transform- to a 3D Fourier transform. After a suitable transformation of coordinates, by calculating the 3D inverse Fourier transform of projections, the 3D image of the scanned object is reconstructed. The formulation is applied to the reconstruction of the distribution of light emission density of magnetically confined plasma, employing data provided by ENEA (Italian National Agency for Technology, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development). Data include light emission by Hydrogen and Helium plasma, recorded within the framework of the PROTO-SPHERA experiment, where plasma is produced within a transparent vessel and monitored by six cameras. This experiment displayed the appearance and sustainment of a plasma torus around an internal plasma centerpost by self-organisation; an entirely unexplored phenomenon to date. The 3D image reconstruction enabled observation of the formation of the plasma torus at different time instants and of the emission spectrum of its cross-sections.
Lamb Wave Anomaly Detection by Ensembling Spatial and Wavenumber Domains
Authors: Eum Woohyun , Simon G. Austin , Tran Charlie , Harley Joel B.
Published: October 2024

Guided wave field anomaly detection has proven to be a feasible tool for nondestructive evaluation and structural health monitoring. These anomaly detection methods are often based on the fact that waves in damaged regions and undamaged regions propagate differently. Yet, most anomaly detection approaches are performed over a single domain, resulting in poor damage discrimination under certain conditions. By analyzing wave propagation in multiple domains, we should be able to achieve more robust detection. We present two methods for analyzing wave propagation in the spatial domain and wavenumber domain to detect and locate damaged regions. To validate our approach, we generate simulated guided wave fields and varied wave speed in two square-shaped regions, representing damage. In the spatial domain, we utilize pixel intensity change to detect anomalies. In the wavenumber domain, we cluster wave modes in polar coordinates using insights from solutions to the Helmholtz equation. By ensembling results from our detection methods in both domains, we can achieve more robust damage detection. We employ the intersection over union (IOU) score to quantitatively assess this approach. Our approach achieves an IoU score of 47% when utilizing only the spatial domain, with improvements to 78.5% upon model ensembling.
Smart Edge Computing Framework for In-Line Signal Detection and Classification
Authors: Gullapalli Anirudh , Aburakhis Taha , Featherston Carol , Pullin Rhys , Kundu Abhishek
Published: October 2024

Composite structures’ complex, anisotropic nature poses challenges for damage monitoring. Non-intrusive inspection methods are crucial for continuous monitoring, aiding the shift to predictive maintenance. Onboard monitoring systems must efficiently acquire and analyze signals, correlating them with damage metrics for automated assessment of structural integrity and optimal maintenance planning. Real-time monitoring faces hurdles in handling large data volumes due to computing constraints. This paper proposes a cyber-physical architecture for acquiring and classifying ultrasonic guided wave signals. It employs a sparse transducer array and an edge device for signal processing. Experiments involved exciting a 12-layer carbon fiber composite panel with tone-burst sinusoidal signals.The responses to these excitations were captured and subjected to soft-threshold-based wavelet denoising to extract the structural acoustic response in the ultrasonic frequency band. Subsequently, the conditioned signals were transformed into time-frequency scalograms, which were then employed to train a multi-class classification algorithm operating on the edge device for effective real-time signal classification in an in-service setting.
2M NaCl by XPS using monochromatic Al K
α x rays
Authors: Zahra Khadisha M. , Soomary Liam A. J. , Counsell Jonathan D. P.
Published: October 2024

Cryo-XPS enables the study of many substances that are unsuitable for standard XPS analysis, such as moderately volatile liquids, biological samples, porous materials, and polymeric materials that may outgas significantly under ultrahigh vacuum conditions. In this article, XPS spectra of a 50 μl frozen droplet of 2M sodium chloride solution (NaCl) in Millipore water purified to 18.2 MΩ cm at 25 °C were obtained using an Al Kα (1486.6 eV) source with a quartz (1010) crystal monochromator through first order diffraction and irradiating the sample at 54.7° to the surface normal. The sample was sputter cleaned using a Gas Cluster Ion Source pre-acquisition to remove the minor layer of adventitious carbon contamination on the surface. Spectra of the principal lines include Na 1s, O 1s, and Cl 2p. Spectra of O KLL, Na KLL, Cl 2s, Na 2s, Na 2p, O 2s, and valence band were also acquired.
What’s in a Message? Effects of Mental Fatigue and Message Framing on Motivation for Physical Activity
Authors: Harris Sheereen , Mardlin Jade , Basset-Gunter Rebecca , Bray Steven R.
Published: October 2024

Many adults worldwide do not meet current physical activity (PA) guidelines. Mental fatigue decreases the likelihood of choosing to engage in PA. Message framing may enhance PA motivation when fatigued. We examined the effects of mental fatigue and message framing on PA motivation with additional focus on the messaging “congruency effect.” Three hundred and twenty undergraduates completed measures of dispositional motivational orientation and were exposed to either gain-framed or loss-framed messages before completing an effort discounting questionnaire. Results showed lower motivation to engage in PA of higher intensities and longer durations. Direct effects of message framing on PA motivation were not significant. Interaction effects revealed that participants receiving messages congruent with their dominant motivational orientation showed increased motivation for light-intensity PA and decreased motivation for vigorous-intensity PA as mental fatigue increased. Findings suggest that providing messages congruent with one’s dominant motivational orientation may increase motivation for engaging in light-intensity PA when fatigued.
Clinical pilot of bacterial transcriptional profiling as a combined genotypic and phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility test
Authors: Young E. L. , Roach D. J. , Martinsen M. A. , McGrath G. E. G. , Holbrook N. R. , Cho H. E. , Seyoum E. Y. , Pierce V. M. , Bhattacharyya R. P.
Published: October 2024

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing health threat, but standard methods for determining antibiotic susceptibility are slow and can delay optimal treatment, which is especially consequential in severe infections such as bacteremia. Novel approaches for rapid susceptibility profiling have emerged that characterize either bacterial response to antibiotics (phenotype) or detect specific resistance genes (genotype).
G
en
o
typic and
Ph
enotypic
AST
through
R
NA detection (GoPhAST-R) is a novel assay, performed directly on positive blood cultures, that integrates rapid transcriptional response profiling with the detection of key resistance gene transcripts, thereby providing simultaneous data on both phenotype and genotype. Here, we performed the first clinical pilot of GoPhAST-R on 42 positive blood cultures: 26 growing
Escherichia coli
, 15 growing
Klebsiella pneumoniae
, and 1 with both. An aliquot of each positive blood culture was exposed to nine different antibiotics, lysed, and underwent rapid transcriptional profiling on the NanoString platform; results were analyzed using an in-house susceptibility classification algorithm. GoPhAST-R achieved 95% overall agreement with standard antimicrobial susceptibility testing methods, with the highest agreement for beta-lactams (98%) and the lowest for fluoroquinolones (88%). Epidemic resistance genes including the extended spectrum beta-lactamase
bla
CTX-M-15
and the carbapenemase
bla
KPC
were also detected within the population. This study demonstrates the clinical feasibility of using transcriptional response profiling for rapid resistance determination, although further validation with larger and more diverse bacterial populations will be essential in future work. GoPhAST-R represents a promising new approach for rapid and comprehensive antibiotic susceptibility testing in clinical settings.

IMPORTANCE

Exposure to antibiotics causes differential transcriptional signatures in susceptible vs resistant bacteria. These differences can be leveraged to rapidly predict resistance profiles of
Escherichia coli
and
Klebsiella pneumoniae
in clinically positive blood cultures.
Urinary tract infections and catheter-associated urinary tract infections caused by
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: El Husseini Nour , Carter Jared A. , Lee Vincent T.
Published: October 2024

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common infections in otherwise healthy individuals. UTI is also common in healthcare settings where patients often require urinary catheters to alleviate urinary retention. The placement of a urinary catheter often leads to catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) caused by a broad range of opportunistic pathogens, commonly referred to as ESKAPE (
Enterococcus
,
Staphylococcus
,
Klebsiella
,
Acinetobacter
,
Pseudomonas
, and
Enterobacter
) pathogens. Our understanding of CAUTI is complicated by the differences in pathogens, in initial microbial load, changes that occur due to the duration of catheterization, and the relationship between infection (colonization) and disease symptoms. To advance our understanding of CAUTI, we reviewed UTI and CAUTI caused by
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
which is unique in that it is not commonly found associated with human microbiomes. For this reason, the ability of
P. aeruginosa
to cause UTI and CAUTI requires the introduction of the bacteria to the bladder from catheterization. Once in the host, the virulence factors used by
P. aeruginosa
in these infections remain an area of ongoing research. In this review, we will discuss studies that focus on
P. aeruginosa
UTI and CAUTI to better understand the infection dynamics and outcome in clinical settings, virulence factors associated with
P. aeruginosa
isolated from the urinary tract, and animal studies to test which bacterial factors are required for this infection. Understanding how
P. aeruginosa
can cause UTI and CAUTI can provide an understanding of how these infections initiate and progress and may provide possible strategies to limit these infections.
Complete genome sequence of Wildflower, an O cluster mycobacteriophage
Authors: Sungu Nday Lucie , Machowski Edith Erika , Ealand Christopher Shawn , Kana Bavesh Davandra
Published: October 2024

Wildflower is a cluster O mycobacteriophage with a siphoviral morphotype that displays lytic activity in
Mycobacterium smegmatis
. It was isolated from soil in Johannesburg, South Africa. The double-stranded genome consists of 69,364 base pairs with a GC content of 65.5% encoding 121 predicted open reading frames.
Complete genome sequence of
Algimonas porphyrae
type strain LMG 26424, a prosthecate bacterium isolated from the red alga
Porphyra yezoensis
Authors: LaSarre Breah , Kierstead Eva M. , Corby Emma M. , Randich Amelia M.
Published: October 2024

Algimonas porphyrae
is a dimorphic, prosthecate member of the family
Robigintomaculaceae
, order Caulobacterales, in the class Alphaproteobacteria, originally isolated from the red alga
Porphyra yezoensis
. Here we report the complete genome of type strain LMG 26424
T
(0 C-2-2
T
) obtained by sequencing with Oxford Nanopore technology.
The choice of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis impacted characterization of highly variable surface microbiota in dairy processing environments
Authors: Daly Sarah E. , Feng Jingzhang , Daeschel Devin , Kovac Jasna , Snyder Abigail B.
Published: October 2024

Accurate knowledge of the microbiota collected from surfaces in food processing environments is important for food quality and safety. This study assessed discrepancies in taxonomic composition and alpha and beta diversity values generated from eight different bioinformatic workflows for the analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences extracted from the microbiota collected from surfaces in dairy processing environments. We found that the microbiota collected from environmental surfaces varied widely in density (0–9.09 log
10
CFU/cm
2
) and Shannon alpha diversity (0.01–3.40). Consequently, depending on the sequence analysis method used, characterization of low-abundance genera (i.e., below 1% relative abundance) and the number of genera identified (114–173 genera) varied considerably. Some low-abundance genera, including
Listeria
, varied between the amplicon sequence variant (ASV) and operational taxonomic unit (OTU) methods. Centered log-ratio transformation inflated alpha and beta diversity values compared to rarefaction. Furthermore, the ASV method also inflated alpha and beta diversity values compared to the OTU method (
P
< 0.05). Therefore, for sparse, uneven, low-density data sets, the OTU method and rarefaction are better for taxonomic and ecological characterization of surface microbiota.

IMPORTANCE

Culture-dependent environmental monitoring programs are used by the food industry to identify foodborne pathogens and spoilage biota on surfaces in food processing environments. The use of culture-independent 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to characterize this surface microbiota has been proposed as a tool to enhance environmental monitoring. However, there is no consensus on the most suitable bioinformatic analyses to accurately capture the diverse levels and types of bacteria on surfaces in food processing environments. Here, we quantify the impact of different bioinformatic analyses on the results and interpretation of 16S rRNA amplicon sequences collected from three cultured dairy facilities in New York State. This study provides guidance for the selection of appropriate 16S rRNA analysis procedures for studying environmental microbiota in dairy processing environments.
Supplemental Material: Subductability of continental lithosphere
Authors: Wang Yang , Li Zhong-Hai , al. et
Published: October 2024

Supplemental Texts S1–S2, Figures S1–S8, and Tables S1–S3, including the bulk-rock compositions of continental crust and lithospheric mantle used in the phase equilibrium modeling, the model setups and model results for the two-dimensional thermal-petrological models, and the model setups for the India-Asia collisional system.
Progressive myelination of the retinal nerve fibre layer associated with a lamina cribrosa cleft
Authors: Payne Pryce , Nel Greg , Gale Jesse
Published: October 2024

Myelination of the retinal nerve fibre layer (MNFL) is generally an incidental asymptomatic finding on fundus exam. While MNFL is thought to be a congenital and stationary finding, there have been cases of acquired and progressive MNFL reported. Here, we discuss a case where a girl in middle childhood presented with reading difficulties and was found to have normal vision and MNFL superior to the left optic disc. Over 5 years, the MNFL was observed to grow, and a new patch appeared inferior to the left disc. A Y-shaped cleft was detected in lamina cribrosa. The shape of the cleft suggested incomplete embryological closure of the optic cup and optic stalk. This case offers support for the concept that defects in lamina cribrosa allow oligodendrocyte precursor cells to enter the retina, where they may later proliferate and differentiate to form MNFL.
Grasping rehabilitation using motor imagery with or without neurofeedback after tetraplegia: a study protocol for a bicentric randomised controlled trial
Authors: Charbonnier Geoffroy , Reilly Karen T , Schwartz Denis , Daligault Sébastien , Luauté Jacques , Rossetti Yves , Collet Christian , Gelis Anthony , Rode Gilles , Mateo Sébastien
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Tetraplegia causes extensive sensorimotor deficits affecting activity, participation and quality of life. People with C6-C7 tetraplegia can learn to grasp objects by performing wrist extension movement (ie, tenodesis grasp), and motor imagery (MI) added to rehabilitation significantly improved tenodesis grasp. We hypothesise that this improvement can be further boosted by adding neurofeedback during MI. Thus, we design a randomised controlled trial investigating the effect of MI training on grasping ability in people with C6-C7 tetraplegia.

Methods and analysis

We will perform a bicentric, assessor-blinded, randomised controlled study. During rehabilitation, 21 inpatients with C6-C7 tetraplegia will be allocated to MI with neurofeedback (MI training with graphical display on a computer screen based on mu (8–13 Hz) and beta (18–25 Hz) frequency rhythms measured with 32-channel electroencephalography), MI alone (only MI training) and control (watching movies and visualisation of geometric shapes). All participants will receive three 45-min training sessions per week for 5 weeks.

The primary outcome measure will be wrist extension angle immediately after the intervention during tenodesis grasp measured with a 3D motion analysis system (VICON). Secondary outcomes will include a range of measures: kinematic, grip strength, upper limb range of motion, upper limb strength (manual muscle test and hand-held dynamometer measure), dexterity (box and block test, 9-hole peg test, Jebsen test, capabilities of upper extremity questionnaire), quality of life (WHOQOL-Bref), daily life autonomy (Quadriplegic Index of Function), MI capacity and brain reorganisation (magnetoencephalography only available in Lyon, n=15). We will measure all outcomes five times: during weeks 1, 3 and 5 (baseline), week 11 (immediately after the intervention end) and week 18 (8 weeks after the intervention end).

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was granted on 29 September 2017 (CPP Nord-Ouest-IV 17/25, N°2017-A00990-53). Dissemination will occur via presentation of results in scientific meetings and publication in peer-reviewed academic journals.

Trial registration number

NCT03190863(ClinicalTrials.gov).