bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing 3D, 2.5D, and 2D Approaches to Brain Image Segmentation
Authors: Avesta Arman , Hossain Sajid , Lin MingDe , Aboian Mariam , Krumholz Harlan M. , Aneja Sanjay
Published: November 2022

Deep-learning methods for auto-segmenting brain images either segment one slice of the image (2D), five consecutive slices of the image (2.5D), or an entire volume of the image (3D). Whether one approach is superior for auto-segmenting brain images is not known.

We compared these three approaches (3D, 2.5D, and 2D) across three auto-segmentation models (capsule networks, UNets, and nnUNets) to segment brain structures. We used 3430 brain MRIs, acquired in a multi-institutional study, to train and test our models. We used the following performance metrics: segmentation accuracy, performance with limited training data, required computational memory, and computational speed during training and deployment.

3D, 2.5D, and 2D approaches respectively gave the highest to lowest Dice scores across all models. 3D models maintained higher Dice scores when the training set size was decreased from 3199 MRIs down to 60 MRIs. 3D models converged 20% to 40% faster during training and were 30% to 50% faster during deployment. However, 3D models require 20 times more computational memory compared to 2.5D or 2D models.

This study showed that 3D models are more accurate, maintain better performance with limited training data, and are faster to train and deploy. However, 3D models require more computational memory compared to 2.5D or 2D models.
A permissive role for dopamine in the production of vigorous movements
Authors: Liu Haixin , Melani Riccardo , Sankaramanchi Akhila , Zeng Ruoheng , Maltese Marta , Martin Jenna R. , Tritsch Nicolas X.
Published: November 2022

Dopamine is essential for the production of vigorous movements, but how dopamine modifies the gain of motor commands remains unclear. Here, we developed a dexterous motor task in which head-restrained mice self-initiate fast and large-amplitude lever pushes with their left forelimb to earn rewards. We show that this task is goal-directed and depends on cortico-striatal circuits in the hemisphere contralateral to the limb used to push the lever. We find that unilateral loss of midbrain dopamine neurons reduces the speed and amplitude of lever pushes, and that levodopa treatment rapidly restores motor vigor, consistent with parkinsonian bradykinesia. Photometry recordings of striatal dopamine levels indicate that the therapeutic efficacy of levodopa does not require phasic dopamine release. In dopamine-intact mice, optogenetic stimulation of midbrain dopamine neurons calibrated to mimic transients evoked by rewards is also insufficient to increase the speed and amplitude of forelimb movements. Together, our data show that phasic dopamine transients are unlikely to specify the vigor of forelimb movements online as they are being executed, and suggest instead that dopamine plays a permissive role in the selection and production of vigorous movements. Our findings have important implications for our understanding of how the basal ganglia contribute to motor control under physiological conditions and in Parkinson’s disease.
Contrast detection is enhanced by non-stochastic, high-frequency transcranial alternating current stimulation with triangle and sine waveform
Authors: Potok Weronika , van der Groen Onno , Sivachelvam Sahana , Bächinger Marc , Fröhlich Flavio , Kish Laszlo B. , Wenderoth Nicole
Published: November 2022

Stochastic Resonance (SR) describes a phenomenon where an additive noise (stochastic carrier-wave) enhances the signal transmission in a nonlinear system. In the nervous system, nonlinear properties are present from the level of single ion channels all the way to perception and appear to support the emergence of SR. For example, SR has been repeatedly demonstrated for visual detection tasks, also by adding noise directly to cortical areas via transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS). We mathematically show that high-frequency, non-stochastic, periodic signals can yield resonance-like effects with linear transfer and infinite signal-to-noise ratio at the output. Here we tested this prediction empirically and investigated whether non-random, high-frequency, transcranial alternating current stimulation (hf-tACS) applied to visual cortex could induce resonance-like effects and enhance performance on a visual detection task. We demonstrated in 28 participants that applying 80 Hz triangular-waves or sine-waves with hf-tACS reduced visual contrast detection threshold for optimal brain stimulation intensities. The influence of hf-tACS on contrast sensitivity was equally effective to tRNS-induced modulation, demonstrating that both hf-tACS and tRNS can reduce contrast detection thresholds. Our findings suggest that a resonance-like mechanism can also emerge when non-stochastic electrical waveforms are applied via hf-tACS.

New & Noteworthy

Our findings extend our understanding of neuromodulation induced by noninvasive electrical stimulation. We provide first evidence showing acute online benefits of hf-tACStriangleand hf-tACSsinetargeting the primary visual cortex (V1) on visual contrast detection in accordance with the resonance-like phenomenon. The ‘non-stochastic’ hf-tACS and ‘stochastic’ hf-tRNS are equally effective in enhancing visual contrast detection.
Optimistic ants: Positive cognitive judgement bias but no emotional contagion in the antLasius niger
Authors: Wenig K. , Kapfinger H. , Koch A. , Czaczkes T.J.
Published: November 2022

Understanding the emotional states of animals is key for informing their ethical treatment, but very little attention has been directed towards the emotional lives of invertebrates. As emotions influence information processing, one way to assess emotional states is to look for an individual’s cognitive bias, i.e., their tendency to make optimistic or pessimistic judgements. Here we developed a free-running judgment bias task for the antLasius niger, and applied the judgement bias to assess ants’ reactions towards positive and negative stimuli. After an initial learning phase in which individuals were trained to associate two odour stimuli with positive or negative reinforcement, their reaction towards ambiguous stimuli, i.e., a mixture between both odours, was assessed. We also explored our study species’ capacity to socially transmit emotional states (‘emotional contagion’) by investigating whether social information could elicit emotional responses. We findL. nigerto be optimistic, showing a baseline positive judgement bias, with 65-68% of ants preferring an ambiguous 1:1 mix of positive and negative cues over no cues. Providing an unexpected food reward prior to the judgement bias task increases positive judgement bias (c. 75% positive). There was a non- significant tendency towards a negative judgement bias after experiencing a mild electric shock (c. 75% negative). Neither positive nor negative social information (trail and alarm pheromones, respectively) affected the ants’ judgement biases, thus providing no indication for emotional contagion. The development of a powerful, simple, and ecologically relevant cognitive judgement task, deployable in the lab and in the field, opens the door to systematic comparative studies of the evolutionary and ecological causes of judgement bias.
High-accuracy transmission and fluorescence XAFS of zinc at 10 K, 50 K, 100 K and 150 K using the hybrid technique
Authors: John Marcus W. , Sier Daniel , Ekanayake Ruwini S. K. , Schalken Martin J. , Tran Chanh Q. , Johannessen Bernt , de Jonge Martin D. , Kappen Peter , Chantler Christopher T.
Published: November 2022

The most accurate measurements of the mass attenuation coefficient for metals at low temperature for the zinc K-edge from 9.5 keV to 11.5 keV at temperatures of 10 K, 50 K, 100 K and 150 K using the hybrid technique are reported. This is the first time transition metal X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) has been studied using the hybrid technique and at low temperatures. This is also the first hybrid-like experiment at the Australian Synchrotron. The measured transmission and fluorescence XAFS spectra are compared and benchmarked against each other with detailed systematic analyses. A recent method for modelling self-absorption in fluorescence has been adapted and applied to a solid sample. The XAFS spectra are analysed using eFEFFIT to provide a robust measurement of the evolution of nanostructure, including such properties as net thermal expansion and mean-square relative displacement. This work investigates crystal dynamics, nanostructural evolution and the results of using the Debye and Einstein models to determine atomic positions. Accuracies achieved, when compared with the literature, exceed those achieved by both relative and differential XAFS, and represent a state-of-the-art for future structural investigations. Bond length uncertainties are of the order of 20–40 fm.
Engineering UPF and comfort parameters of knitted fabrics and validation using statistical techniques
Authors: Imrith Manoj Kumar , Rosunee Satyadev , Unmar Roshan
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The thermophysiological comfort of fabrics is prerequisite as customers covet adequate moisture, heat management-supported and UV protective clothing that measure up to their levels of activities and environmental conditions. Hitherto, scant tasks have been reported with the purpose of engineering both comfort and UV protection simultaneously. From that vantage point, the objective of this work is to develop a model for optimum UPF, air permeability, water-vapour resistance, thermal resistance, thermal absorptivity and areal density of knitted fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

Weft knitted fabrics of various compositions were investigated. UPF was tested using the Labsphere UV transmittance analyser. The FX 3300 (Textest instruments) air permeability tester was used to test air permeability. Thermal comfort and water-vapour resistance were evaluated using the Alambeta and Permetest instruments, respectively. Based on image processing, the porosity was measured. Fabrics thickness and areal density were measured according to standard methods. Furthermore, parametric and non-parametric statistical test methods were applied to the data for analysis.

Findings

Linear regression was substantiated by Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Then multiple linear regression of porosity and thickness together on UPF and comfort parameters were visually depicted by virtue of 3D linear plots. Residual analysis with quantile-quantile and probability plots, advocated the tests using the Shapiro-Wilk test. The result was validated by comparison with experimental data tested. The samples gave satisfactory relative errors and were supported by thez-test method. All tests indicated failure to reject the null hypothesis.

Originality/value

The predictive models were embedded into an interactive computer program. Fabric thickness and porosity are the inputs needed to run the program. It will predict the optimum UPF, areal density and thermophysiological comfort parameters. In a nutshell, knitters may use the program to determine optimum structural parameters for diverse permutations of UPF and thermophysiological comfort parameters; scilicet high UV protection together with low thermal insulation combined with low water-vapour resistance and high air permeability.
Community construals of CSR for happiness: a mixed-method study using natural language
Authors: Chia Austin , Doyle Kim , Kern Margaret L.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Drawing upon a contractarian lens of corporate social responsibility (CSR), this study aims to explore community construals of happiness and evaluates conceptual boundaries of CSR for happiness.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a mixed-methods design, natural language processing and thematic analysis techniques were used to analyse large volumes of textual survey data collected from over 1,000 research participants through an online survey.

Findings

Results indicated that lay construals of happiness were primarily defined in terms of socioeconomic conditions and psychoemotional experiences. In explicating the boundary conditions, community perceptions regarding the extent of businesses’ social responsibilities for happiness were evidenced in five themes: that businesses have a responsibility not to harm happiness, a responsibility to enable conditions for happiness to occur, a responsibility to exercise awareness of happiness implications in decision-making, a responsibility for happiness that is limited by strategic purpose and resource capability and a responsibility for happiness that is limited by stakeholder proximity.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the theoretical and empirical foundation of CSR for happiness while simultaneously developing and applying a novel approach for processing and analysing large volumes of qualitative survey-based data.
Mobilising the Market: An Empirical Analysis of Crowdfunding for Judicial Review Litigation
Authors: Guy Sam
Published: November 2022

This article provides an analysis of 413 crowdfunding campaigns raising funds for judicial review cases. In doing so, it empirically captures the judicial review crowdfunding landscape for the first time, drawing attention to the divergent rates of funding and generating a profile of the actors using the resource based on their geographic scope and their litigation experience. Noting the proliferation of campaigns seeking social goals beyond the immediate litigation, it argues that crowdfunding reveals, and gives rise to, an important reality of legal mobilisation that has received insufficient recognition – the use of law for social change by groups that are inexperienced or locally‐oriented. It therefore constructs a typology for understanding these broader patterns of legal mobilisation, accounting for the dimensions of scale and litigation experience.
Poor prognosis after lower‐limb amputation irrespective of diabetes status in patients undergoing hemodialysis
Authors: Tamaki Akira , Kitamura Mineaki , Yamaguchi Kosei , Notomi Satoko , Tomura Hideyuki , Sawase Kenji , Hashiguchi Junichiroh , Harada Takashi , Funakoshi Satoshi , Takazono Takahiro , Mukae Hiroshi , Nishino Tomoya
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most important risk factors for lower‐limb amputation in patients undergoing hemodialysis. However, the influence of diabetes mellitus on survival after lower‐limb amputation is unknown.

Methods

Patients who underwent lower‐limb amputation since 1996 (amputation group) and those who underwent hemodialysis during 2011–2012 (control group) were included and were followed up until July 2022.

Results

There were 70 patients (age: 66.3 ± 8.2 years, 80% male, 77% diabetic) in the amputation group and 328 (age: 67.5 ± 13.5 years, 56% male, 33% diabetic) in the control group. The amputation group showed a poorer prognosis than the control group (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.41, p < 0.001). In the control group, patients with diabetes exhibited poorer survival than those without diabetes (HR: 1.86, p < 0.001). In the amputation group, patients with diabetes exhibited improved survival (HR: 0.47, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Patients undergoing hemodialysis who underwent lower‐limb amputation exhibited a poor prognosis, irrespective of diabetes status.
Does Smoking Keep You Slim? Evidence from Japan's Smoking Ban in the Workplace
Authors: Zhang Junchao
Published: November 2022

Long‐term time‐series data show a strong negative correlation between obesity and smoking prevalence, which may not reflect the causality. Many heavy smokers claim that smoking helps them maintain a slim body and keep smoking despite the health risks. Using the Japan Household Panel Survey, this study investigates the causal effect of smoking on body shapes by exogenous variations of Japan's smoking ban in the workplace. Contrary to previous studies, our instrumental variable estimates show that smoking has no effect on body mass index, obesity and underweightness. We also construct an overidentified model to test the robustness of our results.
Revised marine reservoir offset (ΔR) values for molluscs and marine mammals from Arctic North America
Authors: Pieńkowski Anna J. , Coulthard Roy D. , Furze Mark F. A.
Published: November 2022

Appropriate marine–terrestrial reservoir offset (ΔR) values are essential for accurate calibration of marine radiocarbon dates. However, ΔR values are only valid for the specific calibration curve that their calculation is based on. Here, we present revised ΔR values for the Marine20 calibration curve from Arctic North America, based on previously published 14C dates on pre‐bomb live‐collected marine molluscs (n = 124) and cetaceans (beluga whales; tooth dentine; n = 12), and bowhead whale–driftwood age comparisons from the same glacio‐isostatically uplifted shorelines (n = 18). Molluscan‐based ΔR are: Chukchi/Beaufort sea coasts, 265±116 14C years; NW Canadian Arctic Archipelago, 188±91 14C years; NE Baffin Island, 81±18 14C years; SE Baffin Island, 14±58 14C years; Hudson Strait, −73±64 14C years; Ungava Bay, 0±86 14C years; Foxe Basin, 175±89 14C years; Hudson Bay, −21±72 14C years; James Bay, 209±114 14C years; West Greenland, −93±111 14C years. Species‐specific marine mammal ΔR terms are 107±59 14C years for beluga and 24±58 14C years for bowheads. Our revised ΔR values are applicable for as long as the same broad oceanographic conditions (circulation, ventilation) have persisted, i.e. through the Holocene. While molluscan values are applicable to other marine carbonate (e.g. foraminifera), cetacean ΔR are valid only for the species they were calculated for and should not be applied to other marine mammals. Importantly, the ΔR terms calculated here are only valid for Marine20 and should not be used with earlier or later calibration curves.
SETDB1 regulates microtubule dynamics
Authors: Hernandez‐Vicens Rosari , Singh Jagreeti , Pernicone Nomi , Listovsky Tamar , Gerlitz Gabi
Published: November 2022

Objectives

SETDB1 is a methyltransferase responsible for the methylation of histone H3‐lysine‐9, which is mainly related to heterochromatin formation. SETDB1 is overexpressed in various cancer types and is associated with an aggressive phenotype. In agreement with its activity, it mainly exhibits a nuclear localization; however, in several cell types a cytoplasmic localization was reported. Here we looked for cytoplasmic functions of SETDB1.

Methods

SETDB1 association with microtubules was detected by immunofluorescence and co‐sedimentation. Microtubule dynamics were analysed during recovery from nocodazole treatment and by tracking microtubule plus‐ends in live cells. Live cell imaging was used to study mitotic kinetics and protein–protein interaction was identified by co‐immunoprecipitation.

Results

SETDB1 co‐sedimented with microtubules and partially colocalized with microtubules. SETDB1 partial silencing led to faster polymerization and reduced rate of catastrophe events of microtubules in parallel to reduced proliferation rate and slower mitotic kinetics. Interestingly, over‐expression of either wild‐type or catalytic dead SETDB1 altered microtubule polymerization rate to the same extent, suggesting that SETDB1 may affect microtubule dynamics by a methylation‐independent mechanism. Moreover, SETDB1 co‐immunoprecipitated with HDAC6 and tubulin acetylation levels were increased upon silencing of SETDB1.

Conclusions

Taken together, our study suggests a model in which SETDB1 affects microtubule dynamics by interacting with both microtubules and HDAC6 to enhance tubulin deacetylation. Overall, our results suggest a novel cytoplasmic role for SETDB1 in the regulation of microtubule dynamics.
Successful treatment of an open incisive bone fracture using a locking compression plate combined with intraoral cerclage wiring
Authors: Leps Alexis , Haardt Hanna , Vanderperren Katrien , Vlaminck Lieven , Martens Ann
Published: November 2022

A 7‐year‐old Warmblood mare presented with bilateral epistaxis, facial swelling and deviation of the nose and upper lip. Upon clinical and computed tomographic examination a complete, oblique, open and displaced fracture of the nasal process of the incisive bone of the left and right maxilla was found. In order to maintain a good alignment and reduction in the fracture, a temporary retention with cerclage wire connecting the incisors of the mandible and maxilla was used. The fracture was then treated surgically with a 3.5‐mm narrow‐locking compression plate on the dorsolateral aspect of the incisive bone in combination with oral cerclage wiring. The intra‐oral cerclage wiring was removed 12 weeks post‐surgery, while the plate remained in situ. Minor post‐surgical complications consisted of transient facial nerve paralysis and swelling. Follow‐up radiographs taken 8 weeks after surgery documented good fracture healing. Nine months after surgery the mare has returned to her intended use and showed excellent cosmesis.
The dentist‐patient relationship and oral health–related quality of life among older adults: A cohort study
Authors: Åstrøm Anne Nordrehaug , Özkaya Ferda , Nasir Elwalid , Tsakos Georgios
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To assess the association between aspects of the dentist‐patient relationship at age 65 and Oral Impacts on Daily Performances (OIDP) at ages 65 and 70 and to examine whether dental avoidance behaviours play a role in explaining that association.

Background

Information about the quality of the dentist‐patient relationship is important for dental care provision and healthy ageing.

Method

Secondary data analysis of a cohort study of Norwegians born in 1942. The participation rate in 2007 (age 65) and 2012 (age 70) was, respectively, 58.0% (n = 4211) and 54.5% (n = 3733). A total of 70.0% (n = 2947) of the baseline participants responded in 2012. Dentist‐patient relationship aspects were assessed in terms of communication with the dentist, satisfaction with dental care, unpleasant experiences and changes of dentist. Generalised Estimating Equations (GEEs) were used to account for repeated measurements.

Results

Prevalence of oral impacts (OIDP) was 29.0% in 2007 and 28.4% in 2012. Participants who received communication on oral hygiene during dental visits had a higher likelihood, whereas participants who reported satisfaction with dental care, no unpleasant experience and did not change dentist had a lower likelihood of reporting oral impacts over these 5 years. Corresponding odds ratios were: 1.2 (95% CI 1.0–1.5), 0.4 (95% CI 0.3–0.5), 0.6 (95% CI 0.5–0.7) and 0.5 (95% CI 0.3–0.6). Associations between dentist‐patient relationship aspects and OIDP remained unchanged after adjustment for avoidance behaviours.

Conclusion

Training dentists in relationship skills might improve social interaction with patients and the oral health–related quality of life of older people in Norway.
Factor structure of the Mini‐Maternal Behavior Q‐Sort and associations with infant attachment: Informing precision in research and intervention
Authors: Booth Anna T. , Greenwood Christopher J. , Youssef George J. , McIntosh Jennifer E. , Nguyen Thy , Letcher Primrose , Edwards Ben , Hutchinson Delyse M. , Sanson Ann , Olsson Craig A. , Macdonald Jacqui A.
Published: November 2022

We examined the factor structure of parental sensitivity to infants as assessed by the Mini‐Maternal Behavior Q‐Sort (Mini‐MBQS), a 25‐item short‐form of the original 90‐item MBQS. We aimed to: (1) identify latent factors of the Mini‐MBQS; and (2) validate each factor by testing associations with infant attachment classifications. Data on parent‐infant dyads (n = 313; 222 mothers with 281 children, 29 fathers with 32 children) were drawn from a three‐generation Australian cohort study. Exploratory Factor Analysis and Exploratory Structural Equation Modelling examined the structure of the Mini‐MBQS. Two latent Mini‐MBQS factors were identified, requiring 8 of 25 original items: (1) Attention and Responsiveness and (2) Contingency in Interactions. Infants with insecure attachment classifications had parents with lower sensitivity across both factors relative to infants classified secure. In particular, infants with resistant attachment classifications had parents with notably low Contingency in Interactions scores. Infants with disorganised attachment classifications had parents with the lowest relative sensitivity across both factors, and in these dyads Attention and Responsiveness scores were especially low. Results provide an empirically derived factor structure for the Mini‐MBQS. Two subscales, each with significant infant attachment associations, may improve precision in clinical intervention and research translation.
Soft‐tissue dimensional change following guided bone regeneration on peri‐implant defects using soft‐type block or particulate bone substitutes: 1‐year outcomes of a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Song Young Woo , Bienz Stefan P. , Benic Goran I. , Cha Jae‐Kook , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Jung Ui‐Won , Jung Ronald E.
Published: November 2022

Aim

To compare the peri‐implant soft‐tissue dimensional changes following guided bone regeneration between particulate (particle group) and collagenated soft‐block‐type (block group) biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP).

Materials and Methods

This study investigated 35 subjects: 18 in the particle group and 17 in the block group. Cone‐beam computed tomography obtained at 6 months post surgery and optical impressions taken periodically (before surgery, 6 months post surgery, and 1 year post surgery) were superimposed. The ridge contour changes over time and the peri‐implant mucosal thicknesses were measured diagonally and horizontally, and analysed statistically.

Results

The increases in diagonal (1.12 ± 0.78 mm) and horizontal (2.79 ± 1.90 mm) ridge contour of the block group were significantly higher than those in the particle group during the first 6 months (p < .05); however, the contour hardly changed thereafter (diagonal: 0.07 ± 0.75 mm; horizontal: −0.34 ± 1.26 mm), resulting in the 1‐year contour changes similar between the two groups. Regardless of the type of BCP, the ridge contour increased significantly over 1 year when the dehiscence defect had a contained configuration (p < .05).

Conclusions

The increase in soft‐tissue dimensions for 1 year was similar between the two groups. The mucosal contour increase was larger when the surgery was conducted in a more contained defect, and this was not influenced by the type of BCP.
A longitudinal assessment of chronic periodontitis in Australian adults
Authors: Ju Xiangqun , Mejia Gloria , Chrisopoulos Sergio , Luzzi Liana , Jamieson Lisa M.
Published: November 2022

Aim

The study aimed to estimate the incidence/progression and reversal of chronic periodontitis and to identify factors associated with chronic periodontitis in Australian adults over a 12‐year period.

Materials and Methods

Data were obtained from the longitudinal component of the National Study of Adult Oral Health (NSAOH) in 2004–2006, and repeated data, among the same adults, in 2017–2018. NSAOH 2004–2006 was a population‐based study of Australian adults aged 15+ years. The American Academy of Periodontology/European Federation of Periodontology case definitions were used, and then compared with two other case definitions. Multivariable Poisson regression models were used to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and reversal rate ratio (RRRs) of periodontitis.

Results

A total of 775 dentate Australian adults had dental examinations at both times. The proportion of incidence/progression and reversal among Australian adults was 56.4% and 11.0%, respectively. Tobacco smokers presented with more than three times higher incidence (IRR: 3.32, 95% CI: 1.50–7.60) and lower reversals (RRR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.39–0.98) than those who had never smoked. Cessation of smoking was positively associated with periodontitis reversal. The total incidence/progression was 471.7/10,000 person‐years, with reversal being 107.5/10,000 person‐years. The average number of teeth lost due to periodontal disease was 1.9 in 2017–2018. Being male and not having periodontal treatment were significant risk markers for the incidence/progression of periodontitis.

Conclusion

Smoking is a risk factor for periodontitis. Cessation of smoking is an effective means of reducing the incidence and progression of chronic periodontitis, to reduce the risk of tooth loss, and to improve overall periodontal health.
The Phanerozoic climate
Authors: Shaviv Nir J. , Svensmark Henrik , Veizer Ján
Published: November 2022

We review the long‐term climate variations during the last 540 million years (Phanerozoic Eon). We begin with a short summary of the relevant geological and geochemical datasets available for the reconstruction of long‐term climate variations. We then explore the main drivers of climate that appear to explain a large fraction of these climatic oscillations. The first is the long‐term trend in atmospheric CO2 due to geological processes, while the second is the atmospheric ionization due to the changing galactic environment. Other drivers, such as albedo and geographic effects, are of secondary importance. In this review, we pay particular attention to problems that may affect the measurements of temperature obtained from oxygen isotopes, such as the long‐term changes in the concentration of δ18O seawater.
Personal beginnings and institutional endings in spiritualism
Authors: Tomlinson Matt
Published: November 2022

In the religious movement known as Spiritualism, a medium's task is to provide evidence that there is no such thing as death. Human existence is defined by Spiritualists in terms of continual spiritual progress rather than stark beginnings and endings, although converts do tell vivid stories of the moment they realised Spiritualism's truth. The movement changed over decades as mediums turned their attention from physical to mental manifestations of spiritual presence. Mediumship has remained popular in public culture, but as an institution Spiritualism has declined in prominence to the point where many members of the movement now join it as converts and worry about the closure of churches. In this article, I juxtapose personal and institutional beginnings and endings to show their interrelation, with people's senses of radical newness and progress cultivated in the context of perceived institutional decline.
El rol de la Misión política de Verificación de la ONU en Colombia en apoyo a la reintegración social de excombatientes de las FARC-EP en Meta y Nariño
Authors: Figueroa Arias Mónica
Published: November 2022

The social reintegration of former FARC-EP combatants is a vital process for post-conflict peace building. Taking into account the role of international organizations such as the UN, we examine how the UN Political Verification Mission in Colombia supported the social reintegration process of ex-combatants in the departments of Meta and Nariño from 2017 to 2019. It analyzes how the approaches of the Verification Mission contributed to this process and how its results had variations according to the security characteristics of the territories, subsidy delivery policies by the State and the ethnic characteristics of the host communities. For this study, a research model was designed to understand the relationships between this international organization and various actors at different levels, especially at the local level. The case study was used as a research method and semi-structured interviews, participant observation and documentary analysis were used as data collection instruments.
Review of the Causes of Wire Breakage and Its Mitigation During the Wire Electric Discharge Machining Process
Authors: Das Sanghamitra , Joshi Shrikrishna N.
Published: November 2022

Wire electric discharge machining (WEDM) is a widely used high-precision machining process. It has the capability of cutting high-strength alloys, namely, tool alloys, Hastelloy, and monel with very tight tolerance. Frequent wire breakage adversely affects the product geometric precision, surface integrity, and productivity of the manufacturing establishments. It is essential to understand the causes of wire breakage and to mitigate the frequency of its occurrence. This paper comprehensively reviews the experimental as well as theoretical research work reported on various aspects of wire electrode erosion such as the effect of heat generated in spark plasma, thermal stresses, wire rupture phenomena, and wire fatigue. It also presents important research findings on the causes of wire failure and advancements to reduce wire erosion and wire vibrations. The paper systematically and carefully examines the measures suggested to improve the wire life and depicts the development of various wire health monitoring and control systems. Overall, it presents useful insights and important guidelines for the efficient utilization of the wire EDM process by mitigating the causes of wire erosion and its failure. It will certainly help for the improvement of the precision machining capability of the WEDM process.
Can Inservice Inspections Be Eliminated for Passive Components in the U.S. Nuclear Fleet?
Authors: Rudland David L.
Published: November 2022

For the last 50 years, inservice inspection (ISI) of passive components, i.e., vessels, piping, etc., has played a pivotal role in maintaining the safety of the current nuclear fleet. The original inspection programs were designed on a sampling strategy, where a sampling of similar components is scheduled to provide a measure of assurance that all components are safe. Over the last several years, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission has approved plant-specific extensions to in-service inspection frequencies with a basis that includes operational experience and risk-informed arguments. In addition, risk assessment has been used to allow classification of components into risk categories with low-risk categories being exempt for certain inservice inspection requirements. From a risk-perspective, the impact of passive component failure on overall plant safety is typically small. However, these calculations are based on current state of knowledge and many times lack the ability to foresee potential degradation issues. The operational experience suggests that even though the discovery of new degradation mechanics has slowed over the years, continuing degradation and its impact on risk-insights should be considered when evaluating the need for periodic inspection of passive components. This paper presents some thoughts on the impacts of eliminating in-service inspection requirements for passive components and how monitoring performance is essential to plant safety.
Simplified Formulas for External Pressure Design
Authors: Kirkland William M. , Bett Christopher R.
Published: November 2022

Design of vessels for external pressure currently requires a chart-based solution or analytical approaches which are not necessarily intuitive. In this paper, we propose simple formulas for the external pressure evaluation of pipes and other cylindrical pressure vessels. We present a conceptual comparison between the elastic and elastic-plastic stability of structural columns and that of cylindrical vessels of long, intermediate, and short length. Their common features allow an accurate and straightforward approach for external pressure design. The approach is also extended to spherical caps, conical vessels, and formed heads.

We compare the method presented to the current acceptance criteria from various design codes, including the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII, Code Case 2286, and EN 13445-3, as well as codes for steel and aluminum structures. In further discussion, the simplified method is compared against the results of more than 500 experiments on the buckling of cylindrical and spherical vessels published over the past two centuries.

This simple but accurate approximation is conceptually intuitive, analytically straightforward, and shows potential utility in pressure vessel design codes, as well as piping design codes such as B31 that currently reference ASME VIII for external pressure design.1
Estimation of Bolt Creep Characteristics and Sealing Performance of Flanged Joints
Authors: Yamanaka Hiroshi
Published: November 2022

In the published standards, selection criteria for bolt materials for high temperature and high pressure environments (exceeding 540°C (1000°F) and 300 lb) has not been specified. In addition, it seems that there are few studies that summarize how the initial bolt load and the flange nominal diameter affect the change over time of the bolt load under a high temperature environment. This paper proposed formulas to calculate the changes over time in bolt stress and gasket stress easily due to bolt creep by applying the mechanical relationship of bolted flange joint. The changes over time in the bolt stress and the gasket stress calculated by the proposed formulas were fairly good agreement with the FEM and the experiments. By utilizing proposed formulas, it is possible to predict when retightening should be carried out for bolted flange joints operated continuously for a long period of time. Furthermore, in the present paper, the effects of initial bolt load, internal pressure, bolt materials, and flange nominal diameters on the sealing performance under high temperature environments are clarified by utilizing proposed formulas and FEM. As a result, this paper shows that the increasing initial bolt load against bolt creep under a high temperature environment can not be expected to be effective, and that the size of internal pressure and flange nominal diameter has small effects on the change over time of bolt load.
Mesh Morphing Based on Standard FEA Software Features and Application to Crack Propagation
Authors: Feulvarch Eric , Wasylyk Andrew , Benrabia Abdelhak , Jolly Divjot , Duranton Pascal
Published: November 2022

In the field of numerical simulation, mesh-morphing is a technique that can be used to modify an existing Finite Element Mesh by the means of applying a specific distortion. Most of mesh-morphing methods simply change the positions of the nodes, hence the initial mesh connectivity, as well as the material properties are retained, and the boundary conditions, loadings, contact settings, etc. can be applied without any change in the input file. In this way, a simulation model can be quickly adapted with regards to any changes in the geometry or a new geometry can be created without using a CAD model.

This article introduces the concept of mesh morphing using only standard Finite Element Analysis software features. The presented morphing method is used to modify a complicated mesh given a sample of displacements at known locations. Like standard morphing techniques based on the Radial Basis Functions, a weight function is calculated for each node by using steady state thermal calculation. Then, displacements at known locations are imposed to some nodes and a standard mechanical equation system is solved to calculate the displacements of all the nodes of the structure.

The presented method was applied to solve some industrial applications for Class 1 Nuclear components which are showed here in order to illustrate the method.
Evaluation of Pipe Flange Connection Assembly Efficiencies Using Common Tools and Patterns
Authors: Szemanek Shane , Hamilton Scott
Published: November 2022

ASME PCC-1 (2010) introduced 5 different alternative bolting patterns in contrast to the Legacy Pattern that is commonly known as the “Star Pattern”. For the past 15 years, research has shown that these Alternative Patterns issued by PCC-1 are more efficient than the Star Pattern.

However, the research has shown tool movement around the flange to show efficiency, but not actual assembly time and/or assembly time savings from each one of these alternative bolting patterns.

While all of these alternative bolting patterns are not appropriate for every gasket type and might not add efficiency for smaller diameter flanges, there are many mid-stream and downstream petrochemical applications that could benefit from further knowledge of these efficiencies.

The goal of this paper is to not only determine which one of these alternative patterns is the most efficient but to also compare different types of assembly tools with each pattern.

This analysis does not address the accuracy and repeatability of each method and tool type, but its function is to determine the optimum combination of tool and pattern selection to decrease downtime and Lost Profit Opportunity (LPO).

This paper will use both bolting patterns and assembly tools on an 18” 600 Class flange, that has (24) 1-1/4” studs to develop a method for determining further testing of bolting pattern and bolting tools.
Pseudo-Ratcheting and Shakedown in Impulsively Loaded Vessels
Authors: Duffey Thomas A. , Fehlmann Kevin R. , Gibson Joshem C.
Published: November 2022

Ratcheting and shakedown anomalies are investigated for impulsively loaded vessels. Calculated results for explosive containment vessels subjected to repeated dynamic loading are used to illustrate behaviors that differ markedly from classical ratcheting/shakedown (i.e., the phenomenon associated with purely static loading and elastic-perfectly plastic material) and from the shakedown assessment procedure in API 579-1/ASME FFS-1. Results are similar to ‘pseudo-shakedown’ reported for other dynamically loaded structures. In addition, a simplified analytical model subjected to repeated impulsive loading is shown to demonstrate related characteristics. Experimental data presented elsewhere for explosive containment vessels subjected to repeated loading are used to further demonstrate the differences between conventional ratcheting and that observed for repeated loading of impulsively loaded vessels. These differences are believed to be associated with energy-based response as opposed to load-based response of statically loaded vessels.
Frequency of Torque Tool Calibrations and Field Torque Verifications
Authors: Hamilton Scott
Published: November 2022

The past calibration papers have discussed the importance of accuracy, repeatability, and verification of calibration methods. Through these papers it has been seen that the method of calibration is critical to achieving the proper bolt load as there is no current standard followed for calibrating “powered equipment.”

The frequency of calibration and the practice of field torque verification has not been previously addressed in either research or by the tool manufacturers. The only timeframe that is currently followed is based off ISO 6789-2 “Assembly tools for screws and nuts — Hand torque tools” [1] which states that manual torque wrenches shall be calibrated once every 12 months. There are also no manufacturers that have stated the frequency of calibration since there is no current information of how many times a wrench is used or correlation of the setting of the tool with the amount of use it has seen.

This paper will address the process of calibration & field verification of torque tools during an oil refinery turnaround. During this turnaround, the tools used were calibrated prior to first use and after they were used for the day. Through over 2700 data points, this paper will show three different types of tools, and their suggested rate of field verification. They include manual torque wrenches, hydraulic torque wrenches (both low profile and square drive), and pistol grip torque wrenches (both battery and pneumatic).
The Follow Up Development and on the Usage of the Profiled Wire Gasket
Authors: Sullivan Erik , Currie Anthony
Published: November 2022

The paper discusses the development of sealing technology within the organization with particular emphasis on the gasket manufactured by profiled winding wire. This will be referred to as a PWG.

The paper is a continuation of the paper presented in Paris PVP2013-97050 and follow up papers in PVP2014-28948 and in PVP2018-84067. It discusses further laboratory testing and briefly describes two related field service case studies.

The paper details tests which include: oxidation testing of graphite, compression and recovery testing, chemical resistance testing of fillers in Sulphuric Acid service. The two related studies are based around the use in a Western Canadian refinery on a hot vapour exchanger and on a Fluidised Catalytic Cracker problematic flange.
Strain-Life Performance in Hydrogen of a Dot Pressure Vessel Steel
Authors: Martin May L. , Bradley Peter E. , Lauria Damian , Amaro Robert L. , Connolly Matthew , Slifka Andrew J.
Published: November 2022

Strain-life testing of a 4130 pressure vessel steel was conducted in air and in a high-pressure gaseous-hydrogen environment. Hydrogen causes an order of magnitude decrease in lifetime compared to in-air performance at the same strain-amplitudes. This decrease in lifetime in hydrogen is accompanied by various effects, such as a shift in the cyclic stress-strain curve, different influences on the elastic and plastic components of the strain-life data, and a distinct difference in the evolution of the microstructural texture prior to failure. For comparison, preliminary data from testing of a higher strength pressure vessel steel is presented, showing a difference in elastic/plastic partitioning may be accompanied by a difference in reduction in lifetime due to hydrogen.
ASME Sec. III NB-3200-Based Environmental Fatigue Analysis of Safety Injection Piping for Determining Postulated Rupture Locations
Authors: Lee Bonghee , Nam Ilkwun , Yang Wooseok , Lee Chankyo , Lee Dongjae
Published: November 2022

Branch Technical Position (BTP) 3-4 provides a guideline to determine postulated rupture locations for ASME Class 1 piping. This guideline contains criteria related to the maximum cyclic stress ranges and cumulative usage factor (CUF) by using only NB-3600-based procedure which may have conservative analysis results for determining postulated rupture locations.

Recently issued BTP 3-4 Rev.3 provides two different CUF limits of 0.1 for air environments and 0.4 for Light Water Reactor (LWR) environments, respectively, for determining postulated rupture locations. To calculate CUFen considering the effects of the LWR environments, the fatigue usage factor determined in the air environments based on NB-3200 or NB-3600 of ASME B&PV Sec. III is multiplied by the environmental fatigue correction factor (Fen) based on Regulatory Guide 1.207 (RG 1.207). The Fen values may vary depending on the LWR environment conditions and the maximum Fen can be determined as a factor of approximately 14 for stainless steels. Also, RG 1.207 requires to use the new design fatigue curves (DFC), which have been developed recently by Argonne National Laboratory, to perform the environmental fatigue analysis. Since the new DFC predicts much shorter fatigue lives than the current DFC given in ASME B&PV Sec. III for stainless steels, the CUFen in the LWR environments could be significantly increased.

For these reasons, many points in piping systems could be determined to be postulated rupture locations due to exceeding the CUFen limit of 0.4 in the LWR environments.

In this paper, NB-3200- and NB-3600-based stress analyses and fatigue analyses considering both the air environments and the LWR environments for the safety injection (SI) piping have been performed to evaluate the conservatism of NB-3600-based stress analysis results and to review the effects of the LWR environments for determining postulated rupture locations.