bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental and Analytical Investigations of Crack Removal Phenomenon in Highly Deformable Rubbers Weakened by a Crack and Loaded in Mode‐I Conditions
Authors: Enteshari Mehrdad , Heydari‐Meybodi Mahdi , Choupani Naghdali , Ayatollahi Majid R.
Published: November 2024

A physical phenomenon called “crack removal” is investigated for highly deformable rubbery materials containing a pre‐existing crack under uniaxial pure mode‐I loading. In this case, the stress concentration significantly diminishes and in a specific stage of loading, the specimen behaves as a sample which has no apparent effect from the initial sharp crack and thus nearly undergoes uniaxial state of stress until its final rupture. To explore this phenomenon that has not been previously explored, theoretical and experimental investigations were carried out in the current study. In the experimental part, due to the lack of pertinent experimental data for crack removal phenomenon, a series of mode‐I fracture tests were carried out on nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) containing 15 phr carbon black. In the theoretical part, an energy‐based criterion was proposed for detecting the crack removal load and subsequently, for predicting the final rupture load in such materials. For implementation of this criterion, non‐linear finite element analyses were performed. The results confirm very good ability of the proposed criterion for predicting the crack removal and final rupture phases in rubber‐like materials having high deformability.
Financialisation, Underemployment and the Disconnected Greek Capitalism
Authors: Gouzoulis Giorgos , Iliopoulos Panagiotis (Takis) , Galanis Giorgos
Published: November 2024

Recent contributions within the disconnected capitalism literature argue that personal financial insecurity related to household indebtedness and pension fund financialisation is positively associated with time‐related underemployment. This is because financially insecure workers are more likely to accept worsening working conditions on the fear of losing their job and defaulting on their debts. Using quarterly data from the Eurostat for the period 2008Q3–2020Q4, this paper shows that the persistent rise of time‐related underemployment rates in postcrisis Greece is robustly associated with the household debt ratio and pension fund investments in financial derivatives. We also demonstrate that while the effects of financialisation are similar for men and women, the employment‐tied and gendered nature of social benefits in the country has disproportionately affected women in the context of austerity. The paper concludes that personal financial insecurity is a key missing factor behind rising time‐related underemployment in Greece since 2008.
Risk of biliary diseases in patients with type 2 diabetes or obesity treated with tirzepatide: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Gong Jie , Gao Fengwei , Jiang Kangyi , Xie Qingyun , Zhao Xin , Lei Zehua
Published: November 2024

Objective

To investigate the risk of biliary diseases in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) or obesity treated with tirzepatide.

Methods

Literature searches were performed using the PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and CNKI databases until 20 May 2024. Randomized controlled studies (RCTs) investigating the safety of tirzepatide vs placebo/other hypoglycemic drugs in patients with T2DM or obesity were included. The safety outcomes mainly included the incidence of cholelithiasis, pancreatitis, cholecystitis, and gallbladder/biliary diseases. Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias was used to assess the quality of literature. Heterogeneity was evaluated using I2 statistics.

Results

A total of 12 high‐quality RCTs (involving 12,351 patients) were included. The results of meta‐analysis showed that tirzepatide was associated with gallbladder/biliary diseases (RR = 1.52; 95%CI: 1.17–1.98; I2 = 0%, P = 0.76) and cholelithiasis (RR = 1.67; 95%CI: 1.14–2.44; I2 = 0%, P = 0.95). Subgroup analysis based on the dose of tirzepatide found no dose–response relationship between different doses of tirzepatide and the risk of gallbladder/biliary diseases and cholelithiasis.

Conclusions

Based on the data currently available, tirzepatide is associated with the development of cholelithiasis in patients. However, the findings from RCTs still need to be further investigated in many post‐marketing safety surveillance programs.
Effects of Egg on Cake Batter Rheology and Sponge Cake Texture
Authors: Inanlar Batuhan , Altay Filiz
Published: November 2024

The physical, rheological, and textural properties of cake batters and cakes made from three different eggs were studied. The compositions of the egg samples are significantly different (p < 0.05), except for their fat contents. The flow characteristics of the cake batters showed pseudoplastic behavior with time dependency. In the frequency sweep test, the G" values were lower than the G' values at low frequencies and vice versa at high frequencies. The G" values of the samples decreased with the water content of the egg samples. While the sample with the highest amount of water showed less viscous batter properties, it yielded a cake structure with more moisture and less hardness, chewiness, adhesiveness, cohesiveness, and springiness properties. The G' and G" moduli decreased for all cake batters in the temperature sweep tests. Eggs with high protein and low water contents should be preferred for consumer acceptance.
Cardiometabolic risk factors and coronary atherosclerosis progression in patients with metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease: the influential role of quantity over type
Authors: Kim Aryoung , Kang Danbee , Choi Sung Chul , Sinn Dong Hyun , Gwak Geum‐Youn
Published: November 2024

Background and Aim

Individuals with metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) who are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) are critical to identify and manage. We aimed to assess whether the risk of CVD in patients with MASLD differed according to the type or number of cardiometabolic risk factors.

Methods

This longitudinal cohort study involved 5674 adults who underwent at least two health checkups between 2004 and 2021. Steatotic liver disease (SLD) was assessed using ultrasonography and participants with SLD were classified as having either non‐MASLD or MASLD. CVD risk was evaluated using coronary artery calcium (CAC) progression as measured using multidetector computed tomography scans.

Results

Over an average 5.8‐year follow‐up period, patients with MASLD exhibited faster CAC progression than those with non‐MASLD (18% vs 11%, P < 0.01). MASLD with any cardiometabolic risk factor exacerbated CAC progression; however, the degree of CAC progression was similar among the different risk components. The adjusted ratios (95% CI) of CAC progression rates comparing non‐MASLD with MASLD with one, two, three, four, and five cardiometabolic risk factors were 1.02 (0.99, 1.06), 1.04 (1.01, 1.08), 1.07 (1.03, 1.10), 1.08 (1.05, 1.11), and 1.11 (1.07, 1.15), respectively.

Conclusions

In individuals with MASLD, all cardiometabolic risk factors contributed to the deterioration of coronary atherosclerosis, with no specific factor exerting a dominant influence. Coronary atherosclerosis progression is directly associated with the cumulative number of cardiometabolic risk factors. Therefore, identifying and managing an increasing number of these factors is imperative in clinical practice, even when MASLD is diagnosed based on only one risk factor.
Incidence of Cholecystitis After Endoscopic Biliary Drainage Using a Low Axial Force Covered Self‐Expandable Metallic Stent in Patients With Malignant Distal Biliary Obstruction: A Multicenter Prospective Study
Authors: Minato Naoki , Okuwaki Kosuke , Watanabe Masafumi , Woo Jun , Matsumoto Takaaki , Tadehara Masayoshi , Kaneko Toru , Ishizaki Junro , Iwai Tomohisa , Imaizumi Hiroshi , Kida Mitsuhiro , Haradome Hiroki , Kusano Chika
Published: November 2024

Background and Aim

No prospective studies have verified the incidence of cholecystitis in patients using the covered self‐expandable metallic stent. In this study, we aimed to investigate the incidence of cholecystitis and its risk factors after low axial force covered self‐expandable metallic stent placement for malignant distal biliary obstruction.

Methods

This multicenter prospective study included patients diagnosed with unresectable distal biliary obstruction between November 2019 and October 2022 who underwent low axial force covered self‐expandable metallic stent placement.

Results

The technical success in the 93 analyzed patients was 100% and clinical success was 98.9%. The 70‐mm covered self‐expandable metallic stent was the most used in 53 patients (57.0%), followed by the 80‐mm type in 27 patients (29.0%), 60‐mm type in 12 patients (12.9%), and 50‐mm type in 1 patient (1.1%). Cholecystitis after covered self‐expandable metallic stent placement occurred in six patients (6.5%). The median time to onset was 46 days (range, 16–315 days), with 1 case in the early stage and five cases in the late stage. There was one mild case, one moderate case, and four severe cases. The presence of tumor involvement at the orifice of the cystic duct was identified as an independent risk factor (odds ratio, 17.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.5–195.1; p = 0.023).

Conclusions

The presence of tumor involvement at the orifice of the cystic duct was an independent risk factor for the development of cholecystitis after low axial covered self‐expandable metallic stent placement.

Trial registration: University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) (http://www.umin.ac.jp, registration number: UMIN 000038209)
Adaptation, calibration, and validation of a cognitive assessment battery for telephone and video administration
Authors: Joffe Yonah , Liu Julianna , Arias Franchesca , Tommet Douglas , Fong Tamara G. , Schmitt Eva M. , Travison Thomas , Kunicki Zachary J. , Inouye Sharon K. , Jones Richard N.
Published: November 2024

Background

Events such as global pandemics can force rapid adoption of new modes of assessment. We describe the evaluation of a modified neuropsychological assessment for web and telephone administration.

Methods

Telephone and video conferencing‐based neuropsychological assessment procedures were developed and implemented within an ongoing observational study, the Successful Aging following Elective Surgery II (SAGES) study (N = 420 persons). Repeated cognitive assessments were used (N = 2008 observations). Analyses using latent variable psychometric methods were used to compare the measurement modes, and a nested validation sub‐study (N = 100 persons) was used to test for measurement equivalence. We used item response theory methods to calibrate data collected by different assessment modes. Measurement equivalence was assessed with Bland–Altman plots and regression analysis.

Results

Only small differences were detected between in‐person and video modes of assessment. The largest difference among factor loadings was shared for the Boston Naming Test and Visual Search and attention test, but the effects were very small (Cohen's q = 0.06) and not statistically significant (95% confidence interval on q, −0.06, +0.18). In terms of item difficulty differences between in‐person and video, the Digit Span Backwards test was less difficult by video with a small‐to‐moderate effect size (Cohen's d of −0.28, 95% CI, −0.54, −0.01). The contrast of in‐person and telephone assessment was larger, with telephone assessment being less difficult than in‐person (largest shift in item difficulty for digit span backwards, d = −1.12 95% CI −1.35, −0.90). Calibrated scores from telephone and videoconference demonstrated good agreement (r = 0.72, 95% CI 0.61, 0.80), and the differences could be corrected with latent variable measurement models.

Conclusions

Videoconference based neuropsychological assessment can be as precise as in‐person. Calibration of ability estimates using latent variable measurement models can address measurement differences and generate scores without evidence of systematic bias.
Keloid Formation and Any Skin Complications in Patients Treated With Isotretinoin and Undergone Any Skin‐Related Procedures
Authors: Latifaltojar Raha , Pour Mohammad Arash , Goodarzi Azadeh
Published: November 2024

Background

Isotretinoin is widely used for moderate to severe acne vulgaris. Despite its broad application, isotretinoin carries a risk of permanent scarring and keloid formation following various skin procedures. As a result, a delay of at least 6–12 months after completing or discontinuing isotretinoin treatment is commonly recommended before undergoing skin procedures.

Aims

This study aims to evaluate the necessity of delaying skin procedures performed concurrently with or soon after isotretinoin treatment at different dosages in patients with acne vulgaris, based on the dermatological side effects associated with combination therapy.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases for original studies up until June 2023.

Results

A total of 34 eligible studies, including 1563 patients treated with isotretinoin, were reviewed to assess the timing of various skin procedures, safe dosages, and potential adverse effects, such as keloid formation and persistent hyperpigmentation which were reported in a few cases.

Conclusions

Based on our review, there is insufficient evidence to support delaying laser hair removal, ablative fractional lasers, nonablative fractional lasers, superficial to medium‐depth chemical peels, manual dermabrasion, cutaneous surgeries, fractional microneedling radiofrequency, microdermabrasion, and dermaroller treatments. However, fully ablative lasers, mechanical dermabrasion, and ablative radiofrequency procedures are not recommended during isotretinoin use. Further studies are needed to establish the safety and optimal interval for these procedures. For all skin procedures, especially more aggressive and deeper ones, a lower dose of isotretinoin is recommended.
Why and when servant leadership spurs followers to speak up: A conservation of resources perspective
Authors: Lin Xiaoshuang , Wu Chia‐Huei , Hirst Giles , Chen (George) Zhen Xiong , Duan Jinyun
Published: November 2024

Servant leadership has been found to motivate followers to express constructive voice, but why is this the case? Studies so far have identified a ‘can do’ mechanism that enables followers to speak up and a ‘reason to’ mechanism that promote their willingness to do so. Nevertheless, these mechanisms have not considered the role of servant leadership in energizing both leaders and followers, which facilitates followers' constructive voice through an ‘energized to’ mechanism. This study aims to unpack the ‘energized to’ mechanism to understand how and when servant leadership can motivate followers' constructive voice. Drawing from conservation of resources theory, we propose that servant leadership can contribute to both leaders' and followers' energy, particularly among leaders with higher self‐regulation ability. In turn, elevated energy levels in leaders and followers will promote followers' constructive voice. To test these hypotheses, we conducted a time‐lagged supervisor–subordinate matched survey. Results show that servant leadership increases both leaders and followers' energy and then followers' constructive voice, but this effect is observed only among leaders with high self‐regulation ability. This research offers new insights into how and when servant leadership not only energizes followers but also benefits the leaders themselves.
Being a family supportive team leader: Implications for team emotional climate and performance
Authors: Russo Marcello , Montani Francesco , Morandin Gabriele , Grenier Simon
Published: November 2024

The impact of family‐supportive supervision at the team level has largely not been explored. Since teams are the cornerstone of organizational effectiveness, it is critical to understand how family‐supportive managers can lead teams to achieve higher performance. We develop and test a team‐level moderated mediation model that unpacks the team‐level impact of Family Supportive Supervisor Behaviours (FSSB) on team performance. Drawing on Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, we hypothesize that a team's other‐focused emotional climate mediates the positive effects of team FSSB on team performance and that managers' relational job characteristics attenuate the positive influence of team FSSB. Results from a two‐wave, multi‐source study of 435 employees and their managers across 56 electronic retail stores support our predictions. These findings advance current multi‐level theorizing on FSSB by shedding new light on how and when family‐supportive managers can drive team performance. The implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Hyperfibrinolysis in a dog with strongyloidiasis
Authors: Mace C. E. , Barker E. N.
Published: November 2024

A female entire dog with a history of travel from Eastern Europe, coprophagia, and absent prophylactic treatment against parasites, developed excessive haemorrhage during elective ovariohysterectomy, resulting in abandonment of the procedure. Physical examination and abdominal ultrasound were unremarkable. Routine blood analysis was unremarkable and there was no support for angiostrongylosis or the presence of common travel‐associated infectious agents. Viscoelastic testing demonstrated hyperfibrinolysis and Baermann's faecal analysis documented Strongyloides stercoralis infection. They were treated with ivermectin, with a resolution of hyperfibrinolysis. This is the first description of transient hyperfibrinolysis associated with strongyloidiasis in the dog, although hyperfibrinolysis has been described in association with other helminth infections in the dog and in other host species. Strongyloidiasis should be considered as an uncommon cause of acquired clinical hyperfibrinolysis, particularly in dogs where common differentials have been excluded.
Joint SPX & VIX calibration with Gaussian polynomial volatility models: Deep pricing with quantization hints
Authors: Abi Jaber Eduardo , Illand Camille , Li Shaun (Xiaoyuan)
Published: November 2024

We consider the joint SPX & VIX calibration within a general class of Gaussian polynomial volatility models in which the volatility of the SPX is assumed to be a polynomial function of a Gaussian Volterra process defined as a stochastic convolution between a kernel and a Brownian motion. By performing joint calibration to daily SPX & VIX implied volatility surface data between 2011 and 2022, we compare the empirical performance of different kernels and their associated Markovian and non‐Markovian models, such as rough and non‐rough path‐dependent volatility models. To ensure an efficient calibration and fair comparison between the models, we develop a generic unified method in our class of models for fast and accurate pricing of SPX & VIX derivatives based on functional quantization and neural networks. For the first time, we identify a conventional one‐factor Markovian continuous stochastic volatility model that can achieve remarkable fits of the implied volatility surfaces of the SPX & VIX together with the term structure of VIX Futures. What is even more remarkable is that our conventional one‐factor Markovian continuous stochastic volatility model outperforms, in all market conditions, its rough and non‐rough path‐dependent counterparts with the same number of parameters.
Dupilumab‐Associated Ocular Surface Disease in Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis: A Single‐Center Asian Experience
Authors: Yap Amanda Xin Yi , Tan Deborah , Koh Mark Jean‐Aan , Yang Lin Yi , Zhe Koh Yi , Wee Lynette Wei‐Yi
Published: November 2024

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common chronic inflammatory skin disorder presenting in childhood. Dupilumab is the first approved biologic agent for the treatment of moderate‐to‐severe AD in pediatric populations. While generally well‐tolerated, dupilumab‐associated ocular surface disease (DAOSD) is a known complication. In severe cases, this may necessitate discontinuation of treatment.

Objective

We aim to describe DAOSD in our cohort of Asian pediatric patients with moderate‐to‐severe AD on dupilumab.

Methods

We performed a single‐center retrospective review of children and adolescents on dupilumab for moderate‐to‐severe AD who developed ophthalmological complications from 2019 to 2024. Most patients had prophylactic lubricant eyedrops. Data collected and analyzed included demographics, ophthalmologic findings, treatment, and outcomes of eye condition.

Results

Of 216 patients treated with dupilumab, 16 (7.4%) developed ophthalmologist‐diagnosed DAOSD. All patients had co‐existing eyelid or head and neck eczema while 31.3% of these patients had pre‐existing eye conditions. Eye redness (87.5%) was the most common presenting symptom, followed by pruritus (43.8%) and eye discharge (25%). The most common eye finding was conjunctivitis (87.5%), followed by limbitis (62.5%) and papillary reaction (62.5%). Two patients required temporary interruption of dupilumab. No patients required discontinuation of dupilumab treatment. The median time to resolution of eye complications was 14 weeks.

Conclusion

In a real‐world setting, the incidence and severity of DAOSD in pediatric patients appears to be lower than that of adults. Prophylactic use of lubricant eye drops, close monitoring and early referral to pediatric ophthalmologists can help reduce the incidence of severe eye disease requiring discontinuation of dupilumab.
The evolving practice of UK Government ministers
Authors: Andrews Leighton , Gilmore Sarah
Published: November 2024

How can understanding the practice of government ministers help us to understand changes in public administration over time? Interviews with former UK ministers suggest that their practice has changed over the last 25 years. Their executive role has been accentuated as they have come to emphasize the importance of delivery and implementation to policy making. Reasons for that are examined, and consideration is given to how that shift in emphasis affects the ministers–civil servant relationship.
Radical surgical excision of extensive perianal melanomas on standing horses: Twenty cases
Authors: Robert Mickaël P. , Buyck Camille , Tricaud Cyril , Cousty Matthieu , Pujol Raymond
Published: November 2024

Objective

To report a radical surgical technique for perianal melanomas involving the anal margin in standing horses.

Study design

Observational retrospective study.

Sample population

Twenty client‐owned horses presented for surgical excision of extensive (≥4 cm) perianal melanomas.

Methods

Demographic data, surgical technique, intraoperative, immediate‐ and late‐postoperative complications were reviewed.

Results

All horses (median age 15, Q1–Q3 12 to 17.3 years) were operated under standing sedation and epidural anesthesia. Median hospitalization period was 6.5 days (Q1–Q3 5 to 8.3 days). The anal margin was fully resected in 14 cases. A deep perirectal dissection was performed in 16 cases. Eight cases required additional local anesthetics. One case bled profusely during and after the procedure. One case became recumbent during the procedure, showed intense postoperative pain, and was eventually euthanized 6 weeks later because of ataxia. During hospitalization, one horse displayed colic signs and 10 others required manual evacuation of the rectum because of decreased fecal output. Complications after hospital discharge included mild colic signs (n = 4), partial wound dehiscence (n = 1) and hypergranulation of the wound (n = 2). All other cases healed without complications in 6 to 12 weeks. Median follow‐up period was 11.8 months (Q1–Q3 6.3 to 27.2 months). Six horses developed new melanomas with only one in the perianal region.

Conclusion

This technique of surgical excision of extensive perianal melanomas was efficiently performed on standing horses with minimal local recurrence. This procedure led to high client satisfaction. Early postoperative pain was commonly encountered. Owners should be warned of the potentially large surgical wound that will be created.

Clinical significance

This technique allowed for removal of large perianal melanomas with limited recurrence during the long term follow up and may improve the quality of life of affected horses.
Referenced Information and Belief Update: Evidence from India
Authors: Hemsley Pedro , Pavao Lynda
Published: November 2024

When an individual receives a piece of information, he decides if and how to incorporate it into his set of beliefs. This is particularly important for referenced information, often used by policymakers as a tool to achieve some form of behavior. In this paper, we ask how individuals update their beliefs about Covid-19 mitigation measures when they receive referenced information about vaccine efficacy and the ineffectiveness of treatments like hydroxychloroquine. If individuals follow some form of Bayesian updating process, belief polarization should either decrease or remain unchanged after individuals are presented to the same piece of information. We test this prediction with an online experiment in which participants are randomly assigned to a treatment group that receives referenced information. Our results show that polarization increased in the treatment group, suggesting that belief update does not follow a pure Bayesian process. This finding calls into question the effectiveness of traditional information dissemination in polarized environments.
Model Parameter Extraction From Contact Geometry and Compliance in Tire–Soil Interaction
Authors: Sime Muluneh
Published: November 2024

A method for extracting traction model parameters from tire–soil interaction measurements and analysis to account for coupled tire–soil deformation is presented. The observable physical properties or conditions, measurable or explainable by principles of engineering mechanics, as factors affecting tire–soil contact surface geometry are identified. Tractive force and soil shear strength are dependent on the contact geometry. The rationale and methods to identify the confluence of parameters and their use to estimate an aggregate model parameter are discussed. The aggregate model parameter captures factors influencing the shape and scale of net tractive force and slip generated by driven tire, including in-situ soil water content and porosity, tire compliance, slip, and sinkage. One of the key aspirations of this paper is to show a method to estimate the soil strength parameter as a function of soil water content explicitly and incorporate in vehicle–ground interaction models.
Sound Mitigation by Metamaterials With Low-Transmission Flat Band
Authors: Zhang Ruojun , Zhang Lei , Hu Gengkai , Zhou Xiaoming
Published: November 2024

Space-coiling acoustic metamaterials dominated by the Fano resonance are being widely exploited for simultaneous control of sound isolation and air ventilation, and they usually achieve complete sound mitigation at multiple isolated frequencies. Here, we theoretically discover and experimentally demonstrate the low-transmission flat-band phenomenon in channeling-type acoustic metamaterials. The metamaterial is constructed with coupled coiling and straight channels, both working in acoustic resonant states. An analytic coupled-mode model is established to capture the coupling interaction between resonant states supported by two channels. A critical coupling condition is derived from the model, which can lead to sextremely low sound transmission in a finite band rather than at isolated frequencies, as validated by both numerical simulations and experiments. We then demonstrate the generality of the flat-band behavior of low transmission by a systematic survey of the coupling of different order resonant modes. Finally, the flat-band effect is also found to exist in the extended model with the side-loaded coiling channel as verified experimentally.
Generative AI-Enabled Conceptualization: Charting ChatGPT’s Impacts on Sustainable Service Design Thinking With Network-Based Cognitive Maps
Authors: Jiang Chenhan , Huang Rui , Shen Tao
Published: November 2024

The rise of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) applications, epitomized by ChatGPT, has reshaped design processes by enhancing idea generation and conceptual depth for designers. However, the facilitating effects on novice designers' thinking remain uncertain, particularly in the context of sustainable service concept generation. This study examines these impacts of ChatGPT on design thinking process and outcomes through controlled experiments with 36 novice designers with ChatGPT, Tiangong AI, and no tools under a sustainable service design task. Through the protocol analysis, this study visualizes the design thinking by network-based cognitive maps, then evaluates design outcomes and systematically analyzes characteristics of design thinking development under different tool interventions. Findings indicate that ChatGPT enhances design concept novelty and systematicity but has limited impact on originality and sustainability. Furthermore, ChatGPT plays an active role in fostering thinking divergence and fluency, especially in providing relevant guides for developed ideas and accelerating the evaluation and creation process. The network-based cognitive maps reveal distinct shifts and styles influenced by ChatGPT, providing references for novice designers using such tools to enhance inspiration and design fluency, and also effectively employ diverse tools during specific concept generation stage. The study also provides insights for enhancing the relevance of educational curricula and enabling bottom-up sustainable service innovations.
Kinematic Analysis and Trajectory Planning of Multi-Segment Continuum Manipulator
Authors: Bai Zhengfeng , Niu Yuxin , Kong Qingfeng
Published: November 2024

The flexible or continuum manipulators present excellent dexterity in confined space, which is beneficial to wide application prospects in many fields. In this paper, we establish the kinematic model and propose a trajectory planning algorithm for multi-segment continuum manipulators. The multi-level mapping from the actuator variables to the manipulator tip is described. A novel modal kinematic method is proposed to overcome the singularity problem generated by the piecewise constant curvature kinematics modeling method. Then, the improved particle swarm optimization algorithm is proposed to solve the problem of redundant inverse kinematics and realize the trajectory tracking of the manipulator tip. In addition, the configuration parameters are restricted by the constraint functions, so that the precise shape of the multi-segment manipulator can be controlled. Finally, a series of numerical simulations are conducted to implement the investigation. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed modal kinematic method and the trajectory planning algorithm are effective for multi-segment continuum manipulator.
The Impact of Inflow Unsteadiness on Loss Prediction
Authors: Przytarski Pawel J. , Lengani Davide , Sandberg Richard
Published: November 2024

Stagnation pressure loss coefficient is still the most commonly used loss metric for performance evaluation and is routinely used to validate simulations. This is because it is easy to measure and readily available from the experiments. However, it was previously shown (TURBO-24-1006) that the stagnation pressure loss coefficient can become unreliable when high levels of inflow unsteadiness are present. As the current design trends are moving toward more compact machines and higher work coefficients, the levels of unsteadiness are likely to increase. It is therefore desirable to assess how higher inflow unsteadiness levels affect the performance of new blade designs and what loss metrics should be used to reliably estimate it. Motivated by the need to understand how performance prediction changes under highly unsteady inflow conditions, we perform a series of high-fidelity scale-resolving simulations. We use this data to construct energy budgets for a variety of mid-span compressor cases with varying Reynolds numbers and inflow turbulence intensities. This allows us to systematically assess the impact of inflow conditions on loss prediction when using stagnation pressure based loss metrics. Stagnation pressure loss coefficient was found to be least reliable for the high inflow turbulence intensities and at high Reynolds numbers.
Advanced Design of a Transition Duct for Supersonic Inlet Turbines in Rotating Detonation Engines
Authors: Mushtaq Noraiz , Pini Matteo , Gaetani Paolo
Published: November 2024

A supersonic inlet turbine can extract substantial energy from the highly fluctuating and transonic flow delivered by a rotating detonation combustor (RDC). However, a transition duct is necessary to achieve the supersonic inlet conditions required by the turbine. In this work, the supersonic transition duct is designed with the method of characteristics (MOC). A generalized implementation of the MOC is proposed for the generation of annular ducts with asymmetric and rotated hub and shroud walls. The model is extended to deal with ideal and non-ideal flows, namely flows characterized by non-ideal thermodynamic effects, and its accuracy has been verified through comparison with results obtained with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. In addition, boundary layer flow equations are combined with the MOC to predict viscous losses on the endwalls and to adjust duct geometry by accounting for the boundary layer thickness. Furthermore, it is essential to predict the effects of the large unsteadiness generated by the detonation combustor for an efficient operation of the turbine. The maximum incidence angle at the turbine inlet is predicted with a one-dimensional annular duct model. Supersonic duct flow behavior to unsteady inlet conditions is characterized through two-dimensional inviscid axisymmetric unsteady CFD simulations. The accuracy of the reduced order models is finally verified with a three-dimensional unsteady viscous simulation assuming inlet flow conditions representative of RDC operation.
Oxidation behavior of TiB2–SiC nanocomposite coatings deposited by magnetron sputtering
Authors: Wu Yuanxing , Li Qizhong , Tu Rong , Goto Takashi
Published: November 2024

TiB2 and TiB2-SiC coatings were deposited by magnetron sputtering using pure TiB2 targets and TiB2-20 mol. % SiC composite targets, and their high-temperature oxidation behavior in air was investigated. The addition of SiC transformed the TiB2 coating from a columnar microstructure to a densely nanocrystalline structure. After air annealing at 500 °C, a small amount of B2O3 oxide scales began to form on the surface of T20S. As the annealing temperature increased, the T0S coating developed loose B2O3 and TiO2 oxide layers and was completely oxidized at 1000 °C. In contrast, the dense B2O3 and amorphous borosilicate passivation layer in the T20S coating inhibited oxygen diffusion, delaying complete oxidation until annealing at 1100 °C.
Nature of metal-support interaction for metal catalysts on oxide supports
Authors: Wang Tairan , Hu Jianyu , Ouyang Runhai , Wang Yutao , Huang Yi , Hu Sulei , Li Wei-Xue
Published: November 2024

The metal-support interaction is one of the most important pillars in heterogeneous catalysis, but developing a fundamental theory has been challenging because of the intricate interfaces. Based on experimental ‎data, interpretable machine learning, theoretical derivation, and first-principles simulations, we established a ‎general theory of metal-oxide interactions grounded in ‎metal-metal and metal-oxygen interactions. The theory applies to metal nanoparticles and atoms on oxide supports and oxide films on metal supports. We found that for late-transition metal catalysts, metal-metal interactions dominated the oxide support effects and suboxide encapsulation over metal nanoparticles. A principle of strong metal-metal interactions for encapsulation occurrence is formulated and substantiated by extensive ‎experiments including 10 metals and 16 ‎oxides. The valuable insights revealed on (strong) metal-support interaction advance the interfacial design of supported metal catalysts.
Surface restructuring and predictive design of heterogeneous catalysts
Authors: Tao Franklin , Salmeron Miquel
Published: November 2024

Heterogeneous catalysts, which often consist of metal nanoparticles loaded on supports such as metal oxides, can undergo several types of restructuring under reaction and catalytic conditions. Advanced characterizations now allow the surface structure of a catalyst in a gas phase to be determined to some extent. Metal nanoparticles may experience changes in shape, surface structure and composition, and atomic packing in response to the pressure of a reactant or product gas, temperature, and reaction between the catalyst surface and gas. Metal oxide supports can partially or fully encapsulate metal nanoparticles, altering their electronic structure and reactivity. Restructuring is a main approach to creating active catalytic sites. The rational design of catalysts must anticipate that such restructurings can occur under reaction or catalytic conditions and gain knowledge of how they occur. It is expected that computational studies can predict such restructurings and that advanced synthesis may be used to prepare pristine catalysts with enhanced resistance to restructurings.
An institution-level analysis of gender gaps in STEM over time
Authors: Cimpian Joseph R. , King Jo R.
Published: November 2024

Gender gaps in engineering and computer science narrow at math-selective schools and widen in others
Nature’s gift economies
The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World
Robin Wall Kimmerer
Scribner, 2024. 128 pp.
Authors: Hernandez Jessica
Published: November 2024

An Indigenous botanist finds lessons in gratitude in the serviceberry
Trust edges up—slightly
Authors: Thorp H. Holden
Published: November 2024

The Pew Research Center survey on trust in science and researchers is eagerly awaited every year by science policy experts and communicators. This year’s results, released last week, give a small, but meaningful, reason to be optimistic: Trust in scientists, which took a substantial hit during the pandemic, is starting to recover. The survey, conducted in October 2024 with 9593 adults across the United States, estimates that 76% of Americans now have a great deal or fair amount of confidence in scientists to act in the public’s best interests. That’s a modest uptick from 73% last year and a hopeful sign that the page may be turning on some of the pandemic-era skepticism. Although the increase is barely outside the margin of error, it may mark the end of a troubling 3-year decline. However, the data reveal a persistent problem—a considerable portion of the public continues to harbor negative views of scientists’ personal qualities, particularly their communication skills. This reality should be worrisome to the scientific community and drive a collective conversation about rebuilding public confidence.
Canada should curtail research ties with China, lawmakers say
Authors: Owens Brian
Published: November 2024

Canada should curtail research ties with China, lawmakers say
Olorofim demonstrates
in vitro
activity against
Coccidioides
species, including isolates against which fluconazole has reduced activity
Authors: Wiederhold Nathan P. , Patterson Hoja P. , Ferrer Dora , Garcia Victor , Thompson George R. , Patterson Thomas F.
Published: November 2024

We evaluated the
in vitro
activity of olorofim against
Coccidioides
species. Olorofim demonstrated potent
in vitro
activity against all isolates tested with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) range ≤0.008–0.06 µg/mL and geometric mean MIC of 0.010 µg/mL. This activity was also maintained against isolates with elevated fluconazole MICs (≥16 µg/mL), including strains with MICs ≥32 µg/mL (olorofim MIC range ≤0.008–0.06 µg/mL and geometric mean MICs of ≤0.009 and ≤0.013 µg/mL, respectively).
Chicken ANP32A-independent replication of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses potentially leads to mammalian adaptation-related amino acid substitutions in viral PB2 and PA proteins
Authors: Fujimoto Yoshikazu , Ozaki Kinuyo , Ono Etsuro
Published: November 2024

Acidic nuclear phosphoprotein 32 family member A (ANP32A) is an important host factor that supports the efficient replication of avian influenza viruses (AIVs). To develop an antiviral strategy against Gs/Gd-lineage H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses in chickens, we established chicken ANP32-knockout (chANP32A-KO) DF-1 cells and evaluated their antiviral efficacy through
in vitro
validation. The replication of all HPAI viruses tested in chANP32A-KO cells was significantly lower compared to that of wild-type DF-1 cells. However, when HPAI strains A/mountain hawk-eagle/Kumamoto/1/2007 (H5N1; MHE) and A/chicken/Aichi/2/2011 (H5N1; H5Aichi) were passed in chANP32A-KO cells, mutant viruses were generated, which exhibited comparable replication levels in both chANP32A-KO and wild-type DF-1 cells. Sequence analysis revealed that mammalian-adaptive amino acid mutations PB2_D256G and PA_T97I were present in the MHE mutant virus, and the PB2_E627K mutation was identified in the H5Aichi mutant virus. These mutations have also been reported to enhance the polymerase activity of AIVs in mammalian cells; however, the minigenome assay in the present study showed that the polymerase activity of mutant viruses in chANP32A-KO cells was not restored to levels comparable to those in wild-type DF-1 cells. These findings suggest that ANP32A-independent viral replication may induce amino acid substitutions associated with mammalian adaptation in AIVs. They also imply that the high efficiency of viral replication mediated by these amino acid mutations may not result from enhanced polymerase activity but rather involve other undefined mechanisms.

IMPORTANCE

During the host-switching of avian influenza viruses (AIVs) to mammalian hosts, introducing adaptive mutations into viral proteins is essential to ensure optimal functionality through virus-host protein interactions in mammalian cells. However, the mechanisms leading to adaptive mutations in viral proteins remain unclear. Among several host proteins that promote viral growth, acidic nuclear phosphoprotein 32 family member A (ANP32A) is known to be an important factor for efficient viral replication. Here, we generated mutant highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses capable of ANP32A-independent replication in a chicken-derived cell line. We demonstrated that several amino acid mutations found in the mutant viruses correspond to those associated with the mammalian adaptation of AIVs. These results suggest that ANP32A-independent viral replication is one of the mechanisms for introducing amino acid mutations that are reportedly involved in the mammalian adaptation of AIVs.
Augmented epigenetic repression of hepatitis B virus covalently closed circular DNA by interferon-α and small-interfering RNA synergy
Authors: Hu Kongying , Zai Wenjing , Xu Mingzhu , Wang Haiyu , Song Xinluo , Huang Chao , Liu Jiangxia , Chen Juan , Deng Qiang , Yuan Zhenghong , Chen Jieliang
Published: November 2024

The persistence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) is a key obstacle for HBV cure. This study aims to comprehensively assess the effect of interferon (IFN) and small-interfering RNA (siRNA) combination on the cccDNA minichromosome. Utilizing both cell and mouse cccDNA models, we compared the inhibitory effects of IFNα, siRNA, and their combination on cccDNA activity and assessed its epigenetic state. IFNα2 treatment alone reduced HBV RNAs, HBeAg, and HBsAg levels by approximately 50%, accompanied by a low-level reconstitution of SMC5/6—a chromatin modulator that restricts cccDNA transcription. HBx-targeting siRNA (siHBx) achieved significant suppression of viral antigens and reconstitution of SMC5/6, but this effect could be reversed by the deacetylase inhibitor Belinostat. The combination of IFN with siHBx resulted in over 95% suppression of virological markers, reduction in epigenetic activation modifications (H3Ac and H4Ac) on cccDNA, and further reduced cccDNA accessibility, with the effect not reversible by Belinostat. In an extracellular humanized IFNAR C57BL/6 mouse model harboring recombinant cccDNA, the effect of combination of clinically used pegylated IFNα2 and GalNac-siHBx was further clarified, indicating a higher and more durable suppression of cccDNA activity compared to either therapy alone. In conclusion, the combination of IFNα and siRNA achieves a more potent and durable epigenetic inhibition of cccDNA activity in cell and mouse models, compared to monotherapy. These findings deepen the understanding of cccDNA modulation and strengthen the scientific basis for the potential of combination therapy.

IMPORTANCE

Since there are currently no approved drugs targeting and silencing covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), achieving a “functional cure” remains difficult. This study aims to comprehensively compare the effects of IFNα, small-interfering RNA targeting hepatitis B virus (HBV), and their combination on the activity, accessibility, and epigenetic modifications of cccDNA minichromosomes in cell models. A more durable and stable inhibition of HBV RNAs and antigens expression by IFNα and HBx-targeting siRNA (siHBx) synergy was observed, associated with augmented epigenetic repression of the cccDNA minichromosome. Besides, in an extracellular humanized IFNAR mouse model harboring recombinant cccDNA with an intact response to human IFNα, the synergistic effect of clinically used pegylated IFNα2 and in-house-developed GalNac-siHBx was further clarified.