bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Instantaneous lift-off distance estimation in magnetic flux leakage testing of steel wire ropes
Authors: Zhou Jianguo , Ren Liyuan , Liu Zhiliang
Published: May 2022

Steel wire rope (SWR) defects plagued its application in many important fields, such as cranes, ports, etc. However, the accuracy of SWRs’ local flaws detection based on magnetic flux leakage (MFL) method is susceptible to the lift-off distance. This paper proposes an instantaneous lift-off distance estimation method to study the effect of lift-off distance on MFL detection for SWR. We firstly derive the relation between the lift-off distance and the MFL field strength based on the magnetic dipole model. After obtaining the time-frequency representation of the MFL signal by using multi-synchrosqueezing transform, we extract the instantaneous amplitude (IA) of the strand signal without other noise interference. Finally, the nonlinear least-squares method is used to fit the relation between the IAs of the strand signals and the lift-off distances to achieve the estimation of the instantaneous lift-off distance. A SWR with three local flaws is tested to validate the proposed method. This work provides instantaneous monitoring of lift-off distances, and it can be used in future noise suppressing methods development or quantitative analysis of local flaws.
Modal analysis of full-scale wind turbine blade structural fatigue tests based on particle swarm optimization
Authors: Han M Q , Ma Q , Zhang Y , An Z W
Published: May 2022

Modal analysis is the vital prerequisite of the full-scale fatigue test of the wind turbine blade. In order to resolve the difficulty in solving the characteristic equation of the transfer matrix method in modal analysis, a method of solving the characteristic equation based on particle swarm optimization is proposed. Firstly, the beam model is used to simplify and discrete the blade along the spanwise of the blade. A concept of average bending stiffness is used for the elasticity assignment with beam segment, and the blade kinematics model is established. Subsequently, a designed particle swarm optimization is used to solve the characteristic equation. Finally, the proposed method is verified by modal analysis of an MW-scale blade. On this basis, the effect of the mass and position of the counterweight on the mode shape is investigated. The results indicate that the proposed method can provide a theoretical reference for the fatigue test technology of wind turbine blades.
Validation of Fatigue Model of a Hydraulic Shock Absorber Equipped with Shim Stack Valves
Authors: Czop Piotr , Slawik Damian
Published: May 2022

The aim of the paper is to formulate and validate the fatigue model of a shock absorber equipped with shim-based clamped valves. The fatigue model has application potential in a virtual valve system pre-selection process during the shock absorber design and configuration stage. It allows the required testing capacity at shock absorber manufacturers to be significantly reduced, i.e. the number of long-term and expensive fatigue tests performed on servo-hydraulic load frame testers. The shock absorber fatigue model is a combination of the previously developed finite element model [1] and analytical routines using the experimentally derived Wöhler characteristics of shim materials [2]. The fatigue model validation process was conducted with a high-performance servo-hydraulic load frame tester. Six shock absorbers were subjected to the same long-cycle kinematic sine-load and tested until initial valve damage symptoms appeared. The paper reports the fatigue calculation process and validation results. The obtained model accuracy in the range of ±30% error of shock absorber life-time prediction. This result is accurate enough for the model to be recommended as a quick-and-dirty engineering tool saving shock absorber development costs.
Dynamic evaluation of a shock absorberwith the use of additional noncontact in-fluid laser measurementsof the intake base valve
Authors: Czop Piotr
Published: May 2022

The aim of this paper is to evaluate vibrations of a semi-active shock absorber take-apart unit assembled with a base valves replaced during conducted evaluation test with the same valve component. Intake valves significantly contribute to the overall vibration level of the shock absorber. The valves are further recalled in the paper as "OK" and "NOK" corresponding to audible noise perception criteria. These criteria are frequently subjective and difficult to be expressed by a technical specification. The take-a-part unit was evaluated by means of piston- rod acceleration in the time-frequency domain. The analysis was completed by other measurements (i.e. load, compression and rebound pressures, and intake valve opening displacement) in order to correlate their waveforms with spectrogram maps. The intake valve opening value (i.e. displacement of the shim supported by the coil spring) was measured using three laser sensors which were capable to conduct measurements directly in fluid. The wavelet time-frequency analysis based on the synchrosqueezing transform (SST) was applied in order to identify the fingerprint OK and NOK valve. A servo-hydraulic tester was used in order to apply a sine-wave excitation to the shock absorber. The experiments involved the soft and hard settings of the semi-active shock absorber corresponding to low (I=0.29 A) and high (I=1.6A) value of the current applied to the internal servo-valve.
Design theory and method of damping rings attached to aviation gears with high speed
Authors: Xu Ziyang , Wei Jing , Wei Haibo , Liu Zhirou , Chen Xiangqian
Published: May 2022

Gears, having thin rim and disk, are widely used in aviation transmission systems, while the traveling wave resonance is easily induced due to the high speed and wide working range. Although attaching damping rings to these gears is an effective solution, the current research lacks the in-depth comparison and specific design methods of various damping rings. Thus, this paper systematically analyses the design theory and method of attaching damping rings to the aviation gear. A system is established to determine the design operating points of the additional damping ring. Various damping ring design schemes are compared from multiple aspects and the friction energy dissipation mechanism is analysed. The design method for the damping ring structure parameters is put forward.
Digitalization Workflow for Automated Structuring and Standardization of Maintenance Information of Wind Turbines into Domain Standard as a Basis for Reliability KPI Calculation
Authors: Lutz Marc-Alexander , Walgern Julia , Beckh Katharina , Schneider Juliane , Faulstich Stefan , Pfaffel Sebastian
Published: May 2022

Maintenance data of wind turbines is an important information source for calculating key performance indicators. Also, it can be used for developing models for early fault detection. Both activities aim for supporting informed decisions in operation and maintenance. However, such data is rarely available in a structured and standardized format which hinders the interoperability of different enterprises. Consequently, maintenance information is often unused or only usable with considerable personnel effort. To digitalize wind farm maintenance, a digitalization workflow is developed and presented in this paper. The workflow consists of the steps optical character recognition, information extraction and text classification. The workflow is applied on real-world wind turbine service reports and invoices. First results for each step show good performance metrics and potential for further real-world application of the proposed method.
Investigation and standardisation of electrolysers for green hydrogen production using the test infrastructure in Bremerhaven, Germany
Authors: Beck Lorenz , Barthel Jannik , Quistorf Gesa , Schalk Kevin , Denecke Nora
Published: May 2022

To realise the installation targets of 10 GW electrolysis capacity in Germany and 40 GW in the EU until 2030, extensive standardisation and testing is required. The electrical characteristics of electrolysers need to be fully understood and mastered for a reliable operation within distribution grids and decoupled grids of systems to produce green hydrogen, e.g. off-shore. Using a modular test infrastructure and multi-functional test pads, electrolysers, but also fuel cells and CHP units, can be tested in emulated grid conditions. To emphasize the range of feasibility regarding testing, three different scenarios were developed, covering the challenges between single unit grid connection and offshore hydrogen production. The test results serve as input for standardisation committees to expand existing and develop new guidelines.
FLOTANT concept: floater design, integrated modelling & global performance
Authors: Serret Jordi , Kahn Bernardo , Cavanagh Bruce , Lorente Patricia , Pascal Remy , Girandier Clementine , McEvoy Paul , Cortés Carlos , Duran Rubén , Romero Alejandro
Published: May 2022

This paper presents the final design of the FLOTANT concept developed within the framework of a Cooperation Research Project funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme. The FLOTANT concept is a hybrid concrete-plastic barge-type floating offshore substructure holding a 12MW wind turbine; buoyancy is achieved using plastic material (foam) fitted within the floater substructure. The paper describes the FLOTANT project innovations and presents the principal dimensions of the floating wind turbine system. The floating system has been developed to fulfil strict requirements at two different locations: Gran Canarias (GC) and West of Barra (WoB) sites. Therefore, two different mooring solutions including innovative elastomers to reduce peak loads are presented. The floating system’s intact and damaged static stability is checked along with the hydrostatic and hydrodynamic properties, showing the low-cost barge-type system’s feasibility.

To ensure the desired behaviour of the floating system, a relevant subset of design load cases (DLCs) based on international standard requirements have been simulated checking the global performance of floater and moorings. Fully coupled hydro-servo-aero-elastic simulations have been performed to consider the wind and wave loading, the aerodynamic response of the rotor, the hydrodynamic response and structural dynamics of the turbine-floater-mooring assembly, and the control system actions. A summary of the results of the last design loop within the FLOTANT project is presented.
Predictive Maintenance of Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Mooring Lines using Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Gorostidi N , Nava V , Aristondo A , Pardo D
Published: May 2022

The recent massive deployment of onshore wind farms has caused controversy to arise mainly around the issues of land occupation, noise and visual pollution and impact on wildlife. Fixed offshore turbines, albeit beneficial in those aspects, become economically unfeasible when installed far away from coastlines. The possibility of installing floating offshore wind turbines is currently hindered by their excessive operation and maintenance costs. We have developed a comprehensive model to help companies plan their operations in advance by detecting failure in mooring lines in almost real time using supervised deep learning techniques. Given the lack of real data, we have coupled numerical methods and OpenFAST simulations to build a dataset containing the displacements and rotations of a turbine’s floating platform across all directions. These time series and their corresponding frequency spectra are used to obtain a set of key statistical parameters, including means and standard deviations, peak frequencies, and several relevant momenta. We have designed and trained a Deep Neural Network to understand and distinguish amongst a series of common failure modes for mooring lines considering a range of metocean and structural conditions. We have obtained promising results when monitoring severe changes in the line’s mass and damping using short time spans, achieving a 95.7% validation accuracy when detecting severe biofouling failure.
Time domain hydrodynamics at panel level: an application to the structural analysis of Telwind
Authors: Rodriguez-Lôpez E , Moreno-Narrillos C , Rueda-Guglieri F , Yáñez-González Á
Published: May 2022

The current modelling approaches for Floating Offshore Wind Turbines (FOWT) present some limitations in the representation of the fluid-solid interaction. Mainly, they do not consider full flexibility of the floating body, so internal forces on the platform cannot be resolved. ESTEYCO has developed a novel methodology to couple all the actions (hydrodynamics, structural, aerodynamics, control, etc.) that are applied over a FOWT concept. The main novelty of this approach resides in selecting Abaqus (well stablished Finite Element –FE– tool) as the central solver of the motion equations, naturally enabling inclusion of full platform flexibility (and not only rigid bodies linked by flexible members). The inclusion of the coupled hydrodynamic actions (highly dependent on platform movement) is performed through a novel tool: EST-PANEL which provides the time domain hydrodynamic pressure at panel level. This approach is thoroughly validated against other well established modelling techniques showing outstanding agreement both in platform movement and internal tension of cables. This methodology has been developed to support the design and development of ESTEYCO’s own technology: Telwind. The current approach thus provides a unique fully coupled FE tool to perform a detailed structural assessment of the floating platform even from the earliest conceptual stages of the design. In addition, the current approach can be easily extended to simulation of some loading scenarios (cable breaking, transient deployment, non-linearities) that are not easy to model with other simulation tools.
Influence of blade deflections on wind turbine noise directivity
Authors: Bresciani A P C , Boatto U , Le Bras S , Bonnet P , de Santana L D
Published: May 2022

This paper establishes the effect of blade deflections on wind turbine noise directivity. Fast turn-around methods are used in a framework of integrated aeroelastic and aeroacoustic simulations: the blade element momentum theory is coupled with a RANS-informed Amiet’s model for the aeroacoustic modelling of trailing- and leading-edge noise. This approach is applied to the NREL 5 MW wind turbine and the results of rigid and flexible blades are compared. The overall sound pressure level computed with flexible blades increases up to 13 dBA for listeners close to the rotor plane. This effect is attributed to the flapwise angular deflection of the wind turbine blade. Furthermore, the symmetry of the results with respect to the rotor plane is lost when the flapwise deflection is considered, indicating that the modelling of this rotation is of fundamental importance for the acoustic simulation.
Investigation of a converter fault for a DFIG wind turbine and analysis of the resulting gearbox component loads
Authors: Röder Julian , Jacobs Georg , Bosse Dennis , Herzog Fabian , Graf Lukas
Published: May 2022

Doubly fed induction generators are widely used in wind turbines in the field. The main advantage is the significantly lower cost of the partial scale power converter compared to the full scale power converter. Converter faults in wind turbines lead to significant generator torque excitations that lead to dynamic loads in the drivetrain. Dynamic loads and changing rotational speeds can lead to gearbox damages. The generator torque excitations have the highest influence on the high speed shaft torque due to the coupling to the generator. Gearbox damages occur mainly on the components of the high speed shaft. Thus, in this paper the influence of a converter fault in a wind turbine with doubly fed induction generator on the high speed shaft component damages is investigated. It is shown that the converter fault can induce dynamic torque excitations with a maximum increase to around 2.5 times rated torque. Due to the resulting dynamic gearbox loading the safety against scuffing in the high speed gear stage decreases by maximum 19 percent. The smearing risk in the high speed shaft bearings increases to around 2 times the value during rated power production.
Machine learning based met data anomaly labelling
Authors: Talayero Ana P. , Yürüşen Nurseda Y. , Ramos Francisco José Sánchez , Gastón Roberto Lázaro
Published: May 2022

Data preprocessing is the initial and utmost critical phase of wind resource assessment and wind power curve performance analysis. Without ensuring high quality and site representative data availability, an evaluation for the wind resource potential of a wind farm site means investment decision making involving a great deal of uncertainty. The current practice in the field is to use fix rules and via data scanning by manual labouring of data field experts. Although rule-based (if-else, interval-based) prefiltering applications can be found in some commercial software, and these rules are also limited for addressing the needed preprocessing requirements fully. Therefore, this process is time consuming and causes inefficient resource allocation considering the manual scanning process performed by data scientists & experts. In this study, reviewed data by experts are used as data with correct labels, and then efficient classifiers are generated by applying machine learning algorithms to unfiltered and filtered data. It is reported that tree-based classifiers are performing better.
Identification of electromagnetic and hadronic EASs using neural network for TAIGA scintillation detector array
Authors: Astapov I. , Bezyazeekov P. , Blank M. , Bonvech E. , Borodin A. , Brueckner M. , Budnev N. , Bulan A. , Chernov D. , Chiavassa A. , Dyachok A. , Gafarov A. , Garmash A. , Grebenyuk V. , Gress E. , Gress O. , Gress T. , Grinyuk A. , Grishin O. , Horns D. , Igoshin A. , Ilyushin M. , Ivanova A.D. , Ivanova A.L. , Kalmykov N. , Kindin V. , Kiryuhin S. , Kokoulin R. , Kompaniets K. , Korosteleva E. , Kozhin V. , Kravchenko E. , Kryukov A. , Kuotb A. , Kuzmichev L. , Lagutin A. , Lavrova M. , Lemeshev Y. , Lubsandorzhiev B. , Lubsandorzhiev N. , Lukanov A. , Lukyantsev D. , Malakhov S. , Mirgazov R. , Mirzoyan R. , Monkhoev R. , Osipova E. , Pakhorukov A. , Pan A. , Pankov L. , Panov L. , Petrukhin A. , Poddubnyi I. , Podgrudkov D. , Poleschuk V. , Ponomareva V. , Popesku M. , Popova E. , Porelli A. , Postnikov E. , Prosin V. , Ptuskin V. , Pushnin A. , Raikin R. , Rubtsov G. , Ryabov E. , Sagan Y. , Samoliga V. , Satyshev I. , Silaev A. , Silaev(junior) A. , Sidorenkov A. , Sinegovsky S. , Skurikhin A. , Sokolov A. , Sulakov V. , Sveshnikova L. , Tabolenko V. , Tanaev A. , Tarashchansky B. , Ternovoy M. , Tkachev L. , Tluczykont M. , Togoo R. , Ushakov N. , Vaidyanathan A. , Volchugov P. , Volkov N. , Vorobyov V. , Voronin D. , Wischnewski R. , Zagorodnikov A. , Zhaglova A. , Zhurov D. , Yashin I.
Published: May 2022

The TAIGA experiment in Tunka valley is expanding the present scintillation detector array with new TAIGA-Muon detector stations. A simulation model was developed for optimization of the layout of the new stations and study of the identification performance of the array. The extensive air showers (EASs) were simulated with the CORSIKA simulation tool, and the detector response was simulated with the GEANT4 package. EASs induced by gamma quanta or protons in the energy range from 1 PeV to 10 PeV and the zenith angle range from 0° to 45°, are used for these studies. For the identification of high energy extensive air showers, a method based on a neural network was suggested. With this method, the proton identification efficiency is more than 90%, while the gamma identification efficiency not less than 50%.
A bio-inspired polarization navigation sensor based on artificial compound eyes
Authors: Liu Jianying , Zhang Ran , Li Yahong , Guan Chuanlong , Liu Rui , Fu Jiaxin , Chu Jinkui
Published: May 2022

Insect compound eyes are optical systems with small volume and a compact structure. The ommatidia in the dorsal rim area of some insects have polarized vision, which can perceive the polarization pattern of the sky and provide them with navigation information. In this paper, inspired by the polarization-sensitive compound eyes of insects, a bio-inspired polarization navigation sensor based on artificial compound eyes is designed. The sensor consists of an artificial compound eye, an integrated polarization detector and an integrated circuit. The optical path of the sensor uses the lens defocus method, which can ensure that the sensor obtains redundant polarization information. The integrated polarization detector is used to obtain the polarization information of the incident light, and the integrated circuit is responsible for the calculation. To extract effective information from images, we propose a multi-threshold segmentation method to filter and classify effective pixels. We use the least squares method to fit the inherent error of the sensor and then compensate it. The indoor calibration accuracy of the sensor is ±0.3°, and the outdoor calibration accuracy is ±0.5°. The sensor can provide accurate direction information for general smart mobile devices. The size of the sensor is 4 × 4 × 2 cm, and the weight is only 15 g. The key components of the sensor can be mass-produced, and it is a miniaturized and low-cost polarization navigation sensor.
Human influence increases the likelihood of extremely early cherry tree flowering in Kyoto
Authors: Christidis Nikolaos , Aono Yasuyuki , Stott Peter A
Published: May 2022

The full flowering of Kyoto’s cherry trees in 2021 was observed on the 26th of March, the earliest date recorded in over 1200 years. An early shift of the flowering season is consistent with Kyoto’s warming climate and could have serious repercussions for the local economy. It is therefore crucial to assess how human activity impacts flowering dates and alters the likelihood of extremely early flowering. To make this assessment, our study combines a risk-based attribution methodology with a phenological model that estimates full flowering dates from daily temperature data. We employ 14 state-of-the-art climate models that provide ensembles of simulations with and without the effect of anthropogenic forcings, and, using the simulated temperatures at Kyoto, we obtain representations of the cherry flowering season under different climatic conditions. An observationally-based correction is also applied to the simulated temperatures to introduce the effect of urban warming. We find a significant anthropogenic shift in the mean flowering season of over a week, about half of which is due to urban warming. By the end of the century and under medium emissions, the early shift is estimated to further increase by almost a week. Extremely early flowering dates, as in 2021, would be rare without human influence, but are now estimated to be 15 times more likely, and are expected to occur at least once a century. Such events are projected to occur every few years by 2100 when they would no longer be considered extreme.
Probability of committed warming exceeding 1.5 ∘C and 2.0 ∘C Paris targets
Authors: Sherwood Steven C , Sen Gupta Alex , Schwartz Stephen E
Published: May 2022

The feasibility of achieving the Paris 1.5 ∘C target continues to be a complex and hotly debated question. To help resolve this question we calculate probability distributions of the committed warming that would ensue if all anthropogenic emissions were stopped immediately, or at successive future times. We use a simple Earth system model together with a Bayesian approach that incorporates multiple lines of evidence and accounts for known model biases. This analysis reveals a wide range of possible outcomes, including no further warming, but also a 15% chance of overshooting the 1.5 ∘C target, and 1%–2% chance for 2 ∘C, even if all emissions had stopped in 2020. If emissions merely stabilize in 2020 and stop in 2040, these probabilities increase to 90% and 17%. The uncertainty arises mainly from that of present forcing by aerosols. Rather than there being a fixed date by which emissions must stop, the probability of reaching either target—which is already below 100%—gradually diminishes with delays in eliminating emissions, by 3%–4% per year for 1.5 ∘C.
Variational quantum eigensolver for SU(N) fermions
Authors: Consiglio Mirko , Chetcuti Wayne J , Bravo-Prieto Carlos , Ramos-Calderer Sergi , Minguzzi Anna , Latorre José I , Amico Luigi , Apollaro Tony J G
Published: May 2022

Variational quantum algorithms aim at harnessing the power of noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) computers, by using a classical optimizer to train a parameterized quantum circuit to solve tractable quantum problems. The variational quantum eigensolver (VQE) is one of the aforementioned algorithms designed to determine the ground-state of many-body Hamiltonians. Here, we apply the VQE to study the ground-state properties of N-component fermions. With such knowledge, we study the persistent current of interacting SU(N) fermions, which is employed to reliably map out the different quantum phases of the system. Our approach lays out the basis for a current-based quantum simulator of many-body systems that can be implemented on NISQ computers.
Diagonal unitary and orthogonal symmetries in quantum theory: II. Evolution operators
Authors: Singh Satvik , Nechita Ion
Published: May 2022

We study bipartite unitary operators which stay invariant under the local actions of diagonal unitary and orthogonal groups. We investigate structural properties of these operators, arguing that the diagonal symmetry makes them suitable for analytical study. As a first application, we construct large new families of dual unitary gates in arbitrary finite dimensions, which are important toy models for entanglement spreading in quantum circuits. We then analyze the non-local nature of these invariant operators, both in discrete (operator Schmidt rank) and continuous (entangling power) settings. Our scrutiny reveals that these operators can be used to simulate any bipartite unitary gate via stochastic local operations and classical communication. Furthermore, we establish a one-to-one connection between the set of local diagonal unitary invariant dual unitary operators with maximum entangling power and the set of complex Hadamard matrices. Finally, we discuss distinguishability of unitary operators in the setting of the stated diagonal symmetry.
Wilson loop in general representation and RG flow in 1D defect QFT
Authors: Beccaria M , Giombi S , Tseytlin A A
Published: May 2022

The generalized Wilson loop operator interpolating between the supersymmetric and the ordinary Wilson loop inN=4SYM theory provides an interesting example of renormalization group flow on a line defect: the scalar coupling parameterζhas a non-trivial beta function and may be viewed as a running coupling constant in a 1D defect QFT. In this paper we continue the study of this operator, generalizing previous results for the beta function and Wilson loop expectation value to the case of an arbitrary representation of the gauge group and beyond the planar limit. Focusing on the scalar ladder limit where the generalized Wilson loop reduces to a purely scalar line operator in a free adjoint theory, and specializing to the case of the rankksymmetric representation ofSU(N), we also consider a certain ‘semiclassical’ limit wherekis taken to infinity with the productkζ2fixed. This limit can be conveniently studied using a 1D defect QFT representation in terms ofNcommuting bosons. Using this representation, we compute the beta function and the circular loop expectation value in the largeklimit, and use it to derive constraints on the structure of the beta function for general representation. We discuss the corresponding 1D RG flow and comment on the consistency of the results with the 1D defect version of the F-theorem.
Supplementation of Facial Fat Grafting to Increase Volume Retention: A Systematic Review
Authors: Schipper Jan Aart M , Vriend Linda , Tuin Aartje J , Dijkstra Pieter U , Schepers Rutger H , van der Lei Berend , Jansma Johan , Harmsen Martin C
Published: May 2022

Background

For decades, facial fat grafting has been used in clinical practice for volume restoration. The main challenge of this technique is variable volume retention. The addition of supplements to augment fat grafts and increase volume retention has been reported in recent years.

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review was to investigate which supplements increase volume retention in facial fat grafting as assessed by volumetric outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Methods

Embase, Medline, Ovid, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar were searched up to November 30, 2020. Only studies assessing volume after facial fat grafting with supplementation in human subjects were included. Outcomes of interest were volume or patient satisfaction. The quality of the studies was assessed with the Effective Public Health Practice Project tool.

Results

After duplicates were removed 3724 studies were screened by title and abstract. After reading 95 full-text articles, 27 studies were eligible and included for comparison. Supplementation comprised of platelet-rich plasma, platelet-rich fibrin, adipose tissue–derived stromal cells or bone marrow–derived stromal cells, cellular or tissue stromal vascular fraction, or nanofat. In 13 out of 22 studies the supplemented group showed improved volumetric retention and 5 out of 16 studies showed greater satisfaction. The scientific quality of the studies was rated as weak for 20 of 27 studies, moderate for 6 of 27 studies, and strong for 1 study.

Conclusions

It remains unclear if additives contribute to facial fat graft retention and there is a need to standardize methodology.

Level of Evidence: 4
The unknown origins of solar energetic particles
Authors: Yardley Stephanie
Published: May 2022

Stephanie Yardley explores the dangers that solar energetic particles cause to modern technology and describes the efforts to understand and predict their origin using plasma composition diagnostics.
Adenylate cyclase type 9 antagonizes cAMP accumulation and regulates endothelial signalling involved in atheroprotection
Authors: Rautureau Yohann , Berlatie Marianne , Rivas Daniel , Uy Kurunradeth , Blanchette Alexandre , Miquel Géraldine , Higgins Marie-Ève , Mecteau Mélanie , Nault Audrey , Villeneuve Louis , Lavoie Véronique , Théberge-Julien Gabriel , Brand Geneviève , Lapointe Line , Denis Maxime , Rosa Camille , Fortier Annik , Blondeau Lucie , Guertin Marie-Claude , Dubé Marie-Pierre , Thorin Éric , Ledoux Jonathan , Rhainds David , Rhéaume Éric , Tardif Jean-Claude
Published: May 2022

Aims

The adenylate cyclase type 9 (ADCY9) gene appears to determine atherosclerotic outcomes in patients treated with dalcetrapib. In mice, we recently demonstrated that Adcy9 inactivation potentiates endothelial function and inhibits atherogenesis. The objective of this study was to characterize the contribution of ADCY9 to the regulation of endothelial signalling pathways involved in atherosclerosis.

Methods and results

We show that ADCY9 is expressed in the endothelium of mouse aorta and femoral arteries. We demonstrate that ADCY9 inactivation in cultured endothelial cells paradoxically increases cAMP accumulation in response to the adenylate cyclase activators forskolin and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Reciprocally, ADCY9 overexpression decreases cAMP production. Using mouse femoral artery arteriography, we show that Adcy9 inactivation potentiates VIP-induced endothelial-dependent vasodilation. Moreover, Adcy9 inactivation reduces mouse atheroma endothelial permeability in different vascular beds. ADCY9 overexpression reduces forskolin-induced phosphorylation of Ser157-vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) and worsens thrombin-induced fall of RAP1 activity, both leading to increased endothelial permeability. ADCY9 inactivation in thrombin-stimulated human coronary artery endothelial cells results in cAMP accumulation, increases p-Ser157-VASP, and inhibits endothelial permeability. MLC2 phosphorylation and actin stress fibre increases in response to thrombin were reduced by ADCY9 inactivation, suggesting actin cytoskeleton regulation. Finally, using the Miles assay, we demonstrate that Adcy9 regulates thrombin-induced endothelial permeability in vivo in normal and atherosclerotic animals.

Conclusion

Adcy9 is expressed in endothelial cells and regulates local cAMP and endothelial functions including permeability relevant to atherogenesis.
Mitogenomics and mitochondrial gene phylogeny decipher the evolution ofSaccharomycotinayeasts
Authors: Christinaki Anastasia C. , Kanellopoulos Spyros G. , Kortsinoglou Alexandra M. , Andrikopoulos Marios Α. , Theelen Bart , Boekhout Teun , Kouvelis Vassili N.
Published: May 2022

Saccharomycotina yeasts belong to diverse clades within the kingdom of fungi and are important to human everyday life. This work investigates the evolutionary relationships among these yeasts from a mitochondrial (mt) genomic perspective. A comparative study of 155 yeast mt genomes representing all major phylogenetic lineages of Saccharomycotina was performed, including genome size and content variability, intron and intergenic regions’ diversity, genetic code alterations, and syntenic variation. Findings from this study suggest that mt genome size diversity is the result of a ceaseless random process, mainly based on genetic recombination and intron mobility. Gene order analysis revealed conserved syntenic units and many occurring rearrangements, which can be correlated with major evolutionary events as shown by the phylogenetic analysis of the concatenated mt protein matrix. For the first time, molecular dating indicated a slower mt genome divergence rate in the early stages of yeast evolution, in contrast with a faster rate in the late evolutionary stages, compared to their nuclear time divergence. Genetic code reassignments of mt genomes are a perpetual process happening in many different parallel evolutionary steps throughout the evolution of Saccharomycotina. Overall, this work shows that phylogenetic studies based on the mt genome of yeasts highlight major evolutionary events.
An ACTH-secreting tumour hidden in a congenitally hypoplastic left lung
Authors: Chen Xueyu , Zhang Yajie , Lin Jules , Li Hecheng
Published: May 2022

Ectopic adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) syndrome has historically been a therapeutic challenge because of the difficulty localizing occult ACTH-secreting tumours. Here, we report a case of a 67-year-old woman with ectopic ACTH syndrome and had an ACTH-secreting tumour hidden within a congenitally hypoplastic left lung. A satisfactory therapeutic outcome was obtained after left pneumonectomy was performed on patient in this case.
Real-World Evidence of the Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibody Sotrovimab for Preventing Hospitalization and Mortality in COVID-19 Outpatients
Authors: Aggarwal Neil R , Beaty Laurel E , Bennett Tellen D , Carlson Nichole E , Davis Christopher B , Kwan Bethany M , Mayer David A , Ong Toan C , Russell Seth , Steele Jeffrey , Wogu Adane F , Wynia Matthew K , Zane Richard D , Ginde Adit A
Published: May 2022

Background

It is not known whether sotrovimab, a neutralizing monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatment authorized for early symptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients, is also effective in preventing the progression of severe disease and mortality following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Delta variant infection.

Methods

In an observational cohort study of nonhospitalized adult patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, 1 October 2021–11 December 2021, using electronic health records from a statewide health system plus state-level vaccine and mortality data, we used propensity matching to select 3 patients not receiving mAbs for each patient who received outpatient sotrovimab treatment. The primary outcome was 28-day hospitalization; secondary outcomes included mortality and severity of hospitalization.

Results

Of 10 036 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, 522 receiving sotrovimab were matched to 1563 not receiving mAbs. Compared to mAb-untreated patients, sotrovimab treatment was associated with a 63% decrease in the odds of all-cause hospitalization (raw rate 2.1% vs 5.7%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], .19–.66) and an 89% decrease in the odds of all-cause 28-day mortality (raw rate 0% vs 1.0%; aOR, 0.11; 95% CI, .0–.79), and may reduce respiratory disease severity among those hospitalized.

Conclusions

Real-world evidence demonstrated sotrovimab effectiveness in reducing hospitalization and all-cause 28-day mortality among COVID-19 outpatients during the Delta variant phase.
Validation of the Soleris® Coliform Method for Detection of Coliform Bacteria in Dried Cannabis Flower: AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 010302
Authors: Le Quynh-Nhi , Mozola Mark , Tudor Alexandra , Horine Leo , Roman Brooke , Montei Carolyn , Zhang Lei , Biswas Preetha , Donofrio Robert
Published: May 2022

Background

The Soleris® Coliform Vial is a growth-based, automated method for detection of coliform bacteria in foods and other consumer products such as nutraceuticals and cosmetics. The method was granted AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM certification for select foods after successful completion of a validation study.

Objective

The objective of the current study was to validate the Soleris coliform method for use with dried cannabis flower (>0.3% delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol).

Methods

A comparative matrix study was performed in which naturally contaminated dried cannabis flower was tested with the Soleris coliform method and with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual solid medium method. Multiple lots of dried cannabis flower were obtained, pre-screened for coliforms, and blended to produce test materials at four different contamination levels ranging from 4.5 to 1600 CFU/g. Each material was tested at three different Soleris detection threshold levels determined by the dilution used to inoculate the Soleris vials. Probability of detection analysis was performed to determine if differences in the number of positive results obtained with the two methods were significant.

Results

For all four dried cannabis flower materials, at all three Soleris test thresholds, there were no significant differences in the number of positive results obtained with the Soleris and cultural plating methods as determined by probability of detection analysis at P < 0.05.

Conclusion

The Soleris coliform test is an accurate method for detection of coliform bacteria in dried cannabis flower.

Highlights

The Soleris coliform method provides cannabis industry QC personnel with an effective method for analysis of dried cannabis flower and produces results in 18–24 h.
A novel experimental design for boar sperm cryopreservation
Authors: Shepherd Myles J , Herickhoff Lisa A
Published: May 2022

Cryopreservation of sperm is a routine technology in many livestock species, but not in swine. Frozen sperm must result in acceptable conception rates and produce 11 to 12 piglets/litter to be competitive with traditional cooled semen. The development of an extender that results in high post-thaw sperm quality and acceptable litter size requires the identification of factors that markedly affect post-thaw semen quality. The present study aims to first identify factors in boar sperm cryopreservation that significantly affect post-thaw sperm quality using an efficient, cost-effective, and relatively rapid approach. The Plackett–Burman experimental design is ideal for the screening of factors at their extreme, greatly reducing the amount of time and resources needed for a follow-up, full factorial design. Using commercial semen, a 9-factor, 12-run Plackett–Burman design was used on 10 boars split between 12 treatments. Through this method, glycerol concentration, cooling rate, antioxidant supplementation with GameteGuard (Membrane Protective Technologies, Inc. Fort Collins, CO), and straw size were identified as highly influential factors that affect post-thaw sperm quality. Extender type, starting osmolality, sodium dodecyl sulfate addition, and stepwise addition of glycerol were also influential for some but not all post-thaw sperm parameters (P < 0.05). Equilibration time in the straws before freezing was determined to have no impact on post-thaw sperm quality parameters. Using the Plackett–Burman design, it can be concluded that four of the nine factors warrant detailed investigation in full factorial experiments in the development of boar sperm cryopreservation extenders.
Benefit of Biennial Fecal Occult Blood Screening on Colorectal Cancer in England: A Population-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Castanon Alejandra , Parmar Dharmishta , Massat Nathalie J , Sasieni Peter , Duffy Stephen W
Published: May 2022

Background

The English national bowel cancer screening program offering a guaiac fecal occult blood test began in July 2006. In randomized controlled trials of guaiac fecal occult blood test screening, reductions in mortality were accompanied by reductions in advanced stage colorectal cancer (CRC). We aimed to evaluate the effect of participation in the national bowel cancer screening program on stage-specific CRC incidence as a likely precursor of a mortality effect.

Methods

In this population-based case-control study, cases were individuals diagnosed with CRC aged 60-79 years between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2013. Two controls per case were matched on geographic region, gender, date of birth, and year of first screening invitation. Screening histories were extracted from the screening database. Conditional logistic regression with correction for self-selection bias was used to estimate odds ratios (odds ratios corrected for self-selection bias [cOR]) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) by Duke stage, sex, and age.

Results

14 636 individuals with CRC and 29 036 without were eligible for analysis. The odds of CRC (any stage) were increased within 30 days of a screening test and decreased thereafter. No reduction in CRC (any stage) among screened individuals compared with those not screened was observed (cOR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.89 to 1.15). However, screened individuals had lower odds of Duke stage D CRC (cOR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.50 to 0.93). We estimate 435 fewer Duke D CRC by age 80 years in 100 000 people screened biennially between ages 60 and 74 years compared with an unscreened cohort.

Conclusion

The impact of colorectal screening on advanced CRC incidence suggests that the program will meet its aim of reducing mortality.
Introductory Information for Therapists
Authors: Craske Michelle G. , Barlow David H.
Published: May 2022

This chapter provides introductory information for therapists regarding the treatment for panic disorder and agoraphobia. Developments in the conceptualization of panic attacks and panic disorder in the 1980s and 1990s made possible significant improvements in the psychological treatment of panic disorder and the development of panic control treatment (PCT), a treatment for panic disorder. Since then a substantial body of evidence on the efficacy of this intervention and closely related variants containing very similar components has accumulated, and it is stipulated as a first-line treatment of choice in clinical practice guidelines. The chapter then looks at the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for agoraphobia. It also details the pharmacological treatments for panic disorder and agoraphobia, before outlining the treatment program presented in this therapist guide.
Negative Cycles of Panic and Agoraphobia
Authors: Craske Michelle G. , Barlow David H.
Published: May 2022

This chapter focuses on the importance of helping clients understand the negative cycles that contribute to panic attacks and agoraphobia. In addition to being informative, the therapist should give corrective feedback and facilitate the client’s discovery of the pattern of influences across thoughts, behaviors, and physiology, as well as the sequence of events that typify panic attacks and episodes of anxiety. A theme that the therapist will introduce here—and that is central to the entire treatment—is that anxiety and fear are not “all bad.” The purpose of fear and anxiety is to prepare the body and mind to deal with threat. By learning to differentiate between anxiety and fear (panic) on the basis of accurate descriptions of the response components that typically exemplify the respective states, clients acquire even more objective self-awareness and enhance their role as a behavioral scientist of their own reactions. The chapter then looks at the Step-by-Step Analysis of Panic Attack form. Step-by-step analysis is a method of identifying response components and the ways in which they cycle and influence each other.
Involving Others
Authors: Craske Michelle G. , Barlow David H.
Published: May 2022

This chapter examines the process of discussing and planning ways for clients to involve significant others in their treatment. Significant others frequently have a big impact on panic disorder and particularly agoraphobia. Indeed, these individuals can play both positive and negative roles in the development and maintenance of agoraphobia and also in its treatment. The behavior and attitudes of significant others also can have strong effects, both positive and negative, on the client’s anxiety and avoidance. For these and other reasons, involving significant others in treatment can be quite beneficial, a suggestion that has been supported by empirical research. The chapter then looks at several ways in which interpersonal relationships, particularly relationships with a spouse or partner, can be disrupted by panic and agoraphobia situations. It also considers the roles that significant others can take on in assisting with exposure practices.
Learning to Record Panic and Anxiety
Authors: Barlow David H. , Craske Michelle G.
Published: May 2022

This chapter discusses the importance and method of recordkeeping, looking at ways to objectively record panic, anxiety, and other moods. Learning to be an observer as opposed to a victim of one’s own anxiety is a first step toward gaining control. Through recordkeeping, one will learn to observe when, where, and under what circumstances one’s panic and anxiety occur. One will also learn to understand the way in which one experiences panic and anxiety, in terms of what one thinks, what one feels, and what one does. This understanding is important because this program is designed specifically to change anxious thinking, anxious feelings, and anxious behaviors. Finally, recording helps one to evaluate progress. The chapter then looks at the three forms of recording panic and anxiety: Your Panic Attack Record, Your Daily Mood Record, and Your Progress Record.
Learning Breathing Skills and Understanding Your Negative Thinking
Authors: Craske Michelle G. , Barlow David H. , Woodard Lauren S.
Published: May 2022

This chapter discusses the mistaken beliefs about panic as well as the importance of understanding one’s negative thoughts and learning breathing skills. Common myths and mistaken beliefs about the physical symptoms of fear include sensations of going insane, losing control, suffering a nervous collapse, suffering a heart attack, and fainting. Such mistaken beliefs can result in a vicious “fear of fear” cycle. The chapter then assesses where these mistaken beliefs come from. It also looks at the initial steps for challenging myths, mistaken beliefs, and negative thoughts. Finally, the chapter explains the mechanics of breathing and the symptoms of overbreathing/hyperventilation, before presenting a specific exercise to teach the skill of diaphragmatic breathing.