bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burden of impaired sleep and its improvement through topical treatment in psoriasis and atopic dermatitis
Authors: Mann Caroline , Dreher Matthias , Rothschmidt Jan‐Niklas , Staubach Petra
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Patients with chronic inflammatory skin diseases often suffer from sleep disturbances. However, objective data on sleep architecture, especially to evaluate potential overall influences under therapy, are lacking.

Patients and methods

Pilot study on sleep quality changes including psoriasis and atopic dermatitis patients before and 2 weeks after intensive topical treatment. In addition to disease activity rating, patient‐rated outcomes for itch severity and sleep quality and polygraphy was performed before and after topical therapy.

Results

14 psoriasis, eleven atopic dermatitis patients (10 female, 15 male) with a mean age of 49 years were included. Disease activity scores (EASI and PASI) were significantly reduced with topical therapy after 2 weeks (p < 0.001). Pruritus intensity (NRS) showed a significant influence on deep sleep, which resolved after therapy. Insomnia severity significantly decreased (r > 0.50, p < 0.05) and daytime sleepiness showed a significant reduction in 40% of patients. N3 (deep sleep) and REM sleep significantly improved, showing a strong effect (r > 0.50). The apnea‐hypopnea index decreased in one of four patients independent of the individual BMI.

Conclusions

Through polygraphy, we demonstrated impaired sleep patterns in psoriasis and atopic dermatitis patients with itch as a relevant factor and beyond that, rapid sleep improvement under 2 weeks of topical treatment.
Development of microsatellite markers for the endangered butterfly Luehdorfia japonica Leech, 1889 (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae)
Authors: Ueda Shouhei , Nakasuji Chiaki , Nakahama Naoyuki , Hirai Norio , Ishii Minoru
Published: April 2024

The endangered butterfly species Luehdorfia japonica Leech, 1889 (Lepidoptera, Papilionidae) is endemic to the central and western parts of Honshu, Japan. This species inhabits deciduous forests and coppices, but areas of optimal habitats are decreasing due to the development of land and the abandonment of regular coppice management. We developed 17 microsatellite loci for L. japonica based on de novo genome sequence data and found that 16 of these loci exhibited polymorphisms in 34 individuals of L. japonica. In addition, polymorphisms of 15 of these microsatellite loci were observed in two individuals of L. puziloi. The number of alleles and the expected heterozygosity per locus in L. japonica were 2–11 and 0.11–0.83, respectively. A principal coordinate analysis based on this genetic information revealed genetic differentiation both within and among geographic populations of L. japonica. Thus, these microsatellite loci could potentially be useful for future conservation genetic studies, including monitoring the genetic diversity and population structure of this endangered butterfly species.
Venture capital and stock price informativeness: Evidence from China
Authors: Feng Huiqun , Wang Qingwei , Xiao Jason Zezhong
Published: April 2024

This study shows that, unlike the positive role played by other institutional investors documented in the literature, venture capital (VC) in pursuit of short‐term gains through exit strategies reduces the stock price informativeness of portfolio companies, especially when VC is associated with a higher level of the ability (longer‐term VC directors, large VC syndicate), incentive (private VC sponsors), and willingness (less reputable VCs) to manipulate information. Furthermore, internal and external monitoring helps mitigate the negative impact of VC on stock price informativeness. Finally, earnings management and reduced information disclosure mediate the relationship between VC involvement and stock price informativeness.
Cross‐border university choice in China's Greater Bay Area
Authors: Xie Xiujuan , Li Danling , Jung Jisun
Published: April 2024

This study explored Chinese students' motivations for selecting a cross‐border university in China's Guangdong‐Hong Kong‐Macau Greater Bay Area (GBA) and how they perceive their undergraduate experiences. The GBA was developed as an international economic cluster in China. Despite the vitality of the GBA's international education sector, few studies have focused on individual students' perspectives on cross‐border higher education choices and experiences. We interviewed twenty students and two academics in charge of university admissions about their opinions and reflections concerning a GBA cross‐border university. Students' university choices were linked to different admission profiles, parental influences, institutional features and interactions between students and the institutions. Our study has significant implications for leaders and policymakers in higher education seeking to attract talented university students, improve enrolment and promote students' learning experiences in cross‐border higher education institutions.
Risk of respiratory diseases among hospitalized patients with hidradenitis suppurativa
Authors: Almuhanna Nouf , Aljughayman Mohammed , Fidler Lee , Alhusayen Raed
Published: April 2024

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a systemic disorder associated with various metabolic and inflammatory comorbidities. Although HS shares risk factors and pathogenic pathways with various respiratory conditions, few studies have explored the relationship between HS and respiratory disease.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional, case‐control, population‐based study that examined the United States National Inpatient Sample database from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2012. HS was identified using ICD‐9‐CM codes during hospital admissions. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate for adjusted associations between HS and respiratory diagnoses as compared to matched controls.

Results

Twenty‐three thousand seven hundred and sixty‐seven hospital admissions for HS were compared with 95,068 age‐ and sex‐matched controls. HS patients had significantly higher adjusted odds of asthma (OR: 1.233; 95% CI: [1.170–1.299]; P < 0.001), chronic airway obstruction (OR: 1.532; 95% CI: [1.419–1.651]; P < 0.001), sarcoidosis (OR: 1.601; 95% CI: [1.157–2.214]; P < 0.001), and sleep apnea (OR: 1.274; 95% CI: [1.182–1.374]; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

HS is associated with several common forms of respiratory disease. Knowledge of these associations may allow for better recognition of respiratory disease in HS patients.
Reappraisal of psoriasis pathogenesis: the role of TEAD4 expression in keratinocytes
Authors: Shehata Wafaa A. , Hammam Mostafa A. , Elbakly Amani R. , Elkady Noha
Published: April 2024

Background

Psoriasis is an immune‐mediated inflammatory skin disorder with a multifaceted pathogenesis. Immune dysregulation and immune cell dysfunction are among the mechanisms involved. TEA domain family member 4 (TEAD4) is suggested to play a role in psoriasis development. TEAD4 expression in keratinocytes may have a chemotactic effect and could disturb the function of FOXP3‐positive T lymphocytes. This study aimed to evaluate the expressions of TEAD4 and FOXP3 in lesional, nonlesional psoriatic, and healthy skin and assess the clinical impact of their expression.

Methods

This case–control study included 32 cases with psoriasis vulgaris and 32 control groups. Hematoxylin and eosin‐stained slides were examined to evaluate the histopathological findings. Moreover, other sections were immunohistochemically stained with FOXP3 and TEAD4.

Results

FOXP3 was expressed in inflammatory cells in 56.5, 37.5, and 12.5% of lesional, nonlesional, and healthy skin, whereas it was entirely negative in the keratinocytes. TEAD4 was expressed in keratinocytes in 93.7 and 46.9% of lesional and nonlesional skin, while negative in healthy skin. Significant differences were observed between their lesional, nonlesional, and healthy skin expressions. Furthermore, FOXP3 expression in lesional skin was significantly associated with early onset (P = 0.016), low PASI score (P = 0.002), mild psoriasis (P = 0.007), and axial affection (P = 0.022), while TEAD4 expression was associated with progressive course (P = 0.032), high PASI score (P = 0.002), severe psoriasis (P = 0.001), severe inflammation (P = 0.001), and progressive course (P = 0.017).

Conclusion

TEAD4 expression was higher in lesional than nonlesional skin and absent in healthy skin, suggesting a role in psoriasis development. TEAD4 expression was also associated with severe and progressive psoriasis. This may be mediated by the downregulation of FOXP3 and dysfunction of Treg cells. TEAD4 could serve as a promising therapeutic target in psoriasis.
A 31‐year follow‐up of those with occult spinal dysraphism, who underwent spinal cord untethering: Lower urinary tract function, skin stigmata, fertility, and work participation
Authors: Kondo Atsuo , Kamihira Osamu , Itoh Tomonori , Gotoh Momokazu , Kato Kumiko
Published: April 2024

Objectives

This study evaluated patients with occult spinal dysraphism who underwent spinal cord untethering.

Methods

Twenty‐four patients who visited us between 1983 and 2000 were followed‐up for a mean duration of 31 years. We studied their lower urinary tract function, skin stigmata, fertility, and work participation.

Results

Questionnaires sent in 2022 revealed that 5 patients had normal voiding (Group A) and 19 patients had abnormal voiding (Group B). Groups A and B underwent spinal cord untethering at a mean age of 5.7 and 13.0 years, respectively, showing a significant statistical difference (p = 0.036). After spinal cord untethering, the number of patients with detrusor normoactivity increased from 0 to 5, i.e., 3 of 6 with detrusor overactivity (50%), 1 of 2 not examined, and 1 of 5 not known. Patients with detrusor underactivity also increased from 11 to 19. Severity of incontinence in the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Short Form resulted in a mean value of 2.4 in Group A, which was significantly superior to the mean value of 9.1 in Group B (p = 0.004). Fourteen patients (58.3%) were married and had 21 healthy children. A majority of patients have had full‐time jobs. A variety of skin stigmata were present in the lumbosacral region, and changes in vesico‐urethral configurations were observed during a video‐urodynamic study.

Conclusions

Our study identified that the early timing of spinal cord untethering performed in neonates or infants and detrusor overactivity prior to untethering surgery are important factors in achieving normal bladder function.
A robust computational quest: Discovering potential hits to improve the treatment of pyrazinamide‐resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Shahab Muhammad , de Farias Morais Gabriel Christian , Akash Shopnil , Fulco Umberto Laino , Oliveira Jonas Ivan Nobre , Zheng Guojun , Akter Shahina
Published: April 2024

The rise of pyrazinamide (PZA)‐resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) poses a major challenge to conventional tuberculosis (TB) treatments. PZA, a cornerstone of TB therapy, must be activated by the mycobacterial enzyme pyrazinamidase (PZase) to convert its active form, pyrazinoic acid, which targets the ribosomal protein S1. Resistance, often associated with mutations in the RpsA protein, complicates treatment and highlights a critical gap in the understanding of structural dynamics and mechanisms of resistance, particularly in the context of the G97D mutation. This study utilizes a novel integration of computational techniques, including multiscale biomolecular and molecular dynamics simulations, physicochemical and medicinal chemistry predictions, quantum computations and virtual screening from the ZINC and Chembridge databases, to elucidate the resistance mechanism and identify lead compounds that have the potential to improve treatment outcomes for PZA‐resistant MTB, namely ZINC15913786, ZINC20735155, Chem10269711, Chem10279789 and Chem10295790. These computational methods offer a cost‐effective, rapid alternative to traditional drug trials by bypassing the need for organic subjects while providing highly accurate insight into the binding sites and efficacy of new drug candidates. The need for rapid and appropriate drug development emphasizes the need for robust computational analysis to justify further validation through in vitro and in vivo experiments.
Frames and Issue Linkage: EU Trade Policy in the Geoeconomic Turn
Authors: Christou Andrea , Damro Chad
Published: April 2024

Trading actors like the European Union (EU) are increasingly seen as geopoliticising trade policy, but such assertions may not capture the extent to which the Directorate General for Trade (DG Trade) uses this policy to achieve security objectives. This article investigates changes over time in justifications for trade policy by differentiating between how the EU and DG Trade use frames – articulated in four EU trade strategies with two DG Trade strategic plans and 10 annual management plans – to propose solutions in response to the geoeconomic turn. This article finds that, whilst DG Trade's discourse continues to reflect the dominant market liberal frame, geopoliticising pressures are encouraging the emergence of an EU counter‐frame linking trade to non‐trade issues and a reframing of the counter‐frame that increasingly links trade and security policy. As a result, the EU's framing of trade policy resembles deep geopoliticisation, whilst DG Trade's framing resembles reluctant geopoliticisation.
Nondestructive detection of fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) infestation in Alphonso and Totapuri varieties of mango fruits by thermal imaging technique
Authors: Shoba S. , Pandiyarajan T. , Shashidhar K. C.
Published: April 2024

Thermal imaging is a noncontact and nondestructive sensing technique that provides thermal signatures of objects by detecting the infrared radiations emitted by them above 1 K. The nondestructive detection of internal defects and infestations has vast applications in the Food Industry. In the present experiment, a C3 thermal camera (FLIR systems) having a thermal sensitivity of <0.10°C was used for the detection of fruit fly infestation in mango fruits. The healthy mango fruits of both varieties had a uniform surface temperature with a variation of only ±0.1°C. The maximum temperature difference between the healthy and fruit fly infested regions in fruit fly infested Totapuri mango was found to be 4.56°C in the heated and dark conditions. The maximum difference in the surface temperature of 4.3°C was observed between the healthy and infested regions of the infested Alphonso mango under heated and dark conditions. The difference in temperature between the healthy and infested regions of mangoes can be attributed to the changes in the internal structure, thermal properties, and biochemical properties of the healthy and infested regions of the infested mango fruits. The statistical analysis showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) in surface temperature between the infested and healthy regions of fruit fly infested Alphonso and Totapuri mango fruits. This envisages that nondestructive fruit fly infestation in Alphonso and Totapuri varieties of mango fruits can be detected under active thermography.

Practical Applications

The quality of mango fruit can be described in terms of external and internal quality. The external quality parameters such as color, size, and weight are usually considered during the sorting of mangoes. The internal defects such as diseases, physiological disorders, and damage due to pests are also significant in mango processing. The visual inspection methods for detecting pest infestation in fruits are nonreliable, time‐consuming, and subjective. Therefore, there is a need for efficient, reliable, and accurate methods to detect fruit fly infestation in mango fruits. A nondestructive method for the detection of fruit fly infestation has the potential to increase fruit quality and acceptability, thereby benefiting processors, traders, and consumers. Thermal imaging has a distinct advantage over other nondestructive quality assessment techniques as it is noncontact, practically feasible, and economically viable.
Reproductive functions and pregnancy outcome in female patients with celiac disease
Authors: Prasad Shubham , Singh Priyanka , Singh Alka , Mehtab Wajiha , Rajput Simple , Dang Sana , Chauhan Ashish , Rajput Mahendra Singh , Kachhawa Garima , Jagannath Soumya , Ahuja Vineet , Makharia Govind K.
Published: April 2024

Background and Aim

Abnormalities in the reproductive functions are often ignored while evaluating a patient with celiac disease (CeD). We evaluated the entire reproductive functions in female patients with CeD.

Methods

In a case control study between 2020 and 2021 using detailed questionnaire, we evaluated reproductive functions (age at menarche, menstrual pattern, fertility, pregnancy outcome and menopause) in biopsy‐proven female patients with CeD of age >10 years. The questionnaire was administered either in person or telephonically. Age‐matched healthy female controls (twice the number) were also recruited.

Results

Of 1086 CeD patients, 470 were females and 288 were included. As compared with controls (n = 586), females with CeD had higher age at menarche (14.6 ± 2.0 vs 13.6 ± 1.5 years; P = 0.001), delayed menarche (30.8% vs 11.4%; P = 0.001), abnormal menstrual pattern (39.7% vs 25.8%; P < 0.001), involuntary delay in conception at > 1 year (33.8% vs 11.8%; P = 0.01), current infertility rate (10.5% vs 5.2%;P = 0.028), and poorer overall pregnancy outcomes (abortion [23.5% vs 12.8%; P = 0.001], pre‐term birth [16.3% vs 3.7%; P = 0.001]).

Conclusions

Either one or more aspect of reproductive functions and pregnancy outcome is affected adversely in three‐fourth female patients with CeD.
Using 3D Printing Technology to Design Split‐Piece Sleeve Prosthesis in the Revision Surgery of Tumor‐Type Total Elbow Prosthetic Fractures: A Case Report
Authors: Zhai Kai , Zheng Kai , Xu Ming , Bao Zhe‐ming , Hou Zi‐wei , Yu Xiu‐chun
Published: April 2024

Background

Revision of tumor‐type prosthetic fractures is very challenging in clinical work. Traditional repair methods may not be able to meet the needs of complex cases or cause greater bone damage. Therefore, more effective and reliable solutions need to be found.

Case Presentation

This study presents a novel revision technique for managing fractures of tumor‐type total elbow prostheses. A 57‐year‐old female patient was diagnosed with a left distal humeral bone tumor accompanied by pathological fracture and underwent customized tumor‐type total elbow prosthesis arthroplasty. After 5 years, she experienced pain and encountered difficulty in flexing the left elbow while lifting heavy objects. The X‐ray examination revealed a fracture of the distal humeral prosthesis. As a response, the elbow joint was initially explored, and the damaged component of the prosthesis was extracted. Subsequently, we utilized 3D printing technology to design a split‐piece sleeve prosthesis and effectively restored the fractured left distal humerus implant. During the 2‐year follow‐up, The X‐ray demonstrated satisfactory positioning of the prosthesis, which remained securely affixed without any indications of loosening. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) reached 80 points, the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) attained a score of 28 points, and the range of motion of the elbow was measured between 25° and 110°, revealing favorable functional outcomes.

Conclusion

The utilization of a 3D printed split‐piece sleeve prosthesis presents a viable clinical treatment strategy for addressing fractures in tumor‐type elbow prostheses.
Electrophysiological correlates of (mis)judging social information
Authors: Wischnewski Miles , Hörberg Michael O. Y. , Schutter Dennis J. L. G.
Published: April 2024

Social information can be used to optimize decision‐making. However, the simultaneous presentation of multiple sources of advice can lead to a distinction bias in judging the validity of the information. While the involvement of event‐related potential (ERP) components in social information processing has been studied, how they are modulated by (mis)judging an advisor's information validity remains unknown. In two experiments participants performed a decision‐making task with highly accurate or inaccurate cues. Each experiment consisted of an initial, learning, and test phase. During the learning phase, three advice cues were simultaneously presented and the validity of them had to be assessed. The effect of different cue constellations on ERPs was investigated. In the subsequent test phase, the willingness to follow or oppose an advice cue was tested. Results demonstrated the distinction bias with participants over or underestimating the accuracy of the most uncertain cues. The P2 amplitude was significantly increased during cue presentation when advisors were in disagreement as compared to when all were in agreement, regardless of cue validity. Further, a larger P3 amplitude during outcome presentation was found when advisors were in disagreement and increased with more informative cues. As such, the most uncertain cues were related to the smallest P3 amplitude. The findings hint at the possible role of P3 in judging and learning the predictability of social cues. This study provides novel insights into the role of P2 and P3 components during the judgment of social information validity.
The Board of Trade and the regulatory state in the long 19th century, 1815–1914
Authors: 6 Perri , Heims Eva
Published: April 2024

How does regulatory statehood develop from the regulatory work which governments have always done? This article challenges conventional views that regulatory statehood is achieved by transition to arm's length agencies and that it replaces court‐based enforcement or displaces legislatures in favor of less accountable executive power. To do so, we examine the major 19th‐century surge in development of micro‐economic regulatory statehood in Britain, which had followed more gradual development in early modern times. We show that when the transformation of the Board of Trade is understood properly, a richer appreciation emerges of how regulatory statehood is institutionalized generally and of British state‐making in particular. To demonstrate this, we introduce a novel conceptual framework for analyzing and assessing change on multiple dimensions of regulatory statehood, distinguishing depth of regulatory capacity and regulatory capability along six dimensions.
Risk factors of sexual violence perpetration and victimization among adolescents: A study of Norwegian high school students
Authors: Bendixen Mons , Kennair Leif Edward Ottesen
Published: April 2024

Sexual violence among adolescents represents a significant problem in society. In this study, we aimed to examine risk factors for sexual violence perpetration in adolescent men and victimization in adolescent women among a community sample of Norwegian high school students. The participants (560 men and 751 women, aged between 16 and 21 years) responded to online questionnaires covering physical and non‐physical forms of sexual harassment and possible risk factors identified in the literature. Last year's prevalence rate of physical sexual perpetration reported by adolescent men was 7%. Comparably, the prevalence of physical sexual victimization reported by adolescent women was 30%. Path analyses suggest that sociosexuality was associated with adolescent men's sexual perpetration indirectly through sexual risk taking, alcohol intoxication, porn exposure, and sexual underperception that in turn was positively associated with undesirable non‐physical solicitation from and toward women. In addition, rape stereotypes were associated with perpetration behavior in adolescent men. For adolescent women, sociosexuality was associated with being sexually victimized primarily through sexual risk behavior, alcohol intoxication, and sexual overperception. These factors were again positively associated with sexual derogation from adolescent women and solicitation from adolescent men. Prior sexual abuse victimization was only indirectly associated with victimization. The factors associated with adolescent men's perpetration and adolescent women's victimization were highly similar. Future work aimed at reducing sexual violence in adolescence within the educational context might find it more effective to specifically target non‐physical forms of sexual harassment.
Active representation and equal treatment: The influence of bureaucrats' social background on discrimination
Authors: Raaphorst Nadine , Ashikali Tanachia , Groeneveld Sandra
Published: April 2024

Drawing on street‐level discrimination literature and representative bureaucracy literature, we theorise that bureaucrats from social groups that have a lower status in society are less inclined to discriminate in evaluating citizen‐clients than bureaucrats from higher status groups. We conducted a 2 × 2 vignette survey experiment among bureaucrats in Dutch street‐level organisations (N = 3109) in various organisational domains. The study shows mixed findings. We found evidence for discrimination and so‐called reverse discrimination, revealing that bureaucrats ascribe more competence to higher status citizens, but lower trust at the same time. We did not find bureaucrats' own status background to matter in their biased evaluations.
Effect of minoxidil combined with triamcinolone acetonide on alopecia areata by microneedle injection
Authors: Wei Fanglin , Cheng jun Cui , Cheng Shasha , Fang Ling
Published: April 2024

Objective

Alopecia areata (AA) is often characterized by sudden onset of patchy hair loss. Topical corticosteroid injection is the most common treatment. This study retrospectively observed the clinical efficacy of microneedle minoxidil combined with triamcinolone acetonide in the treatment of AA.

Methods

A total of 230 patients with AA were selected. The experimental group (n = 120) received physician training and home microneedle treatment with minoxidil combined with triamcinolone acetonide once a week. Topical minoxidil and triamcinolone acetonide were used twice daily at other times. The control group (n = 110) was treated with minoxidil combined with triamcinolone acetonide, twice a day. Cure rate, response rate, SALT, dermatological Quality of Life Index (DLQI), visual analogue (VAS), and cost were assessed at weeks 4 and 12.

Results

Treated group SALT score(Severity of Alopecia Tool) remarkable lower than control group after treated 4 and 12 weeks. After 12 weeks treatment, DLQI score of the treated group (1.8 ± 1.67) were significantly lower than those of the control group (2.45 ± 1.88) (p < 0.05). VAS score and adverse reaction between two group showed no significant different (p = 0.823, p = 0.484 respectively). The total cost was 53.93 ± 15.85 in the treatment group and 53.26 ± 11.51 in the control group. There was no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.72). In the treated group, the complete response rate (CR: 78.33%) and total effective rate (CR+PR: 95%) were significantly higher than those in the control group (CR: 40.91% and CR+PR: 51.82%), with statistically significant differences (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Microneedle introduction of minoxidil and triamcinolone acetonide in the treatment of AA is a safe, effective, economical, and convenient method, with few adverse reactions, and has a good application prospect.
Numerical Analysis of High Frequency Transverse Instabilities in a Can-Type Combustor
Authors: Jella Sandeep , Füri Marc , Katsapis Vasilis
Published: April 2024

Dry low emissions (DLE) systems are well-known to be susceptible to thermoacoustic instabilities. In particular, transverse, spinning modes of high frequency may appear, and lead to severe damage in a matter of seconds. The thermoacoustic response of an engine is usually specific to the combustor geometry, operating conditions and difficult to reproduce at the lab-scale. In this work, details of high frequency dynamics (HFD) observed during the early development phase of a new DLE system are provided, where a multipeaked spectrum was noticed during testing. Beginning with an analysis of the measured pressure spectra from three different concepts, an analytical model of the clockwise and anticlockwise transverse waves was fitted to the experimental data using a nonlinear curve fitting approach to produce a simple yet useful understanding of the phenomena. A flamelet-based large eddy simulation (LES) of the entire combustion system was used to complement this analysis and confirm the mode shapes using dynamic mode decomposition (DMD). Both approaches independently identified a spinning second-order mode as the dominant one in the high frequency regime. The LES indicates the coupling of a distortion of swirl profile with a precessing vortex core as a possible cause for the onset of instability. With regard to modeling sensitivities, it is shown that subgrid scale combustion modeling has a strong impact on predicted amplitudes. Ultimately, a thickened-flame model with a modified efficiency function provided consistent results.
Effects of Leading Edge Shape on Effusion Film Cooling
Authors: Chang Yu-Chuan , Huang Szu-Chi , Huang Chih-Yung , Liu Yao-Hsien
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the effusion film cooling on a turbine leading edge model. The pressure-sensitive paint (PSP) technique was employed to analyze the film cooling effectiveness. Three different leading edge profiles were tested, including a semicylinder and two elliptical models. Effusion cooling was achieved by employing closely spaced small holes, and stereolithography was utilized to create the perforated region. The study examined the impact of different blowing ratios (0.4, 0.8, and 1.2) while maintaining a unity density ratio. For benchmark testing purposes, three rows of film cooling holes on these leading edge models were also studied for traditional film cooling scenarios. The film cooling rows consisted of 15 holes positioned at the stagnation line (0 deg) and ±30 deg away from it. All test models were placed in a low-speed wind tunnel for experimentation at a Reynolds number of 100,000. Two different streamwise spacings of the effusion holes were examined in this study. The results indicate that effusion cooling was more effective in cooling compared to traditional film cooling methods. When considering the same leading edge shape, the adiabatic cooling effectiveness of effusion cooling was 30–100% higher than that of traditional film cooling. It was observed that increasing the streamwise spacing had a negative impact on the cooling effectiveness, regardless of the leading edge profile being used. Furthermore, variations in blowing ratio did not significantly affect the effectiveness of effusion cooling, and no noticeable blow-off of coolant was observed.
Experimental Study on Melting and Solidification Cycle of a Hybrid Pin Fin/Metal Foam Energy Storage Tank
Authors: Du Zhao , Huang Xinyu , Li Yuanji , Liu Gang , Yang Xiaohu , Sundén Bengt
Published: April 2024

Phase change heat storage offers a practical solution to address the instability and intermittency of solar energy. However, the thermal conductivity of heat storage medium (phase change material) is low, which hinders its large-scale application. Metal foam and fins have proven effective in enhancing heat transfer performance. This study establishes a visual phase change heat storage experimental platform to compare the heat storage and release performances of four different structures: pure paraffin, fins, metal foam, and fin-metal foam, throughout the complete melting-solidification cycle. Experimental snapshots and real-time data acquisition are utilized to obtain phase interface changes and internal temperature variations at different time intervals, enabling a quantitative comparison of melting and solidification time and corresponding temperature responses. The findings reveal that both fins and metal foam effectively improve melting and solidification performance, with fins exhibiting more pronounced temperature responses, while metal foam demonstrates enhanced temperature uniformity. The comprehensive utilization of the fin-foam metal structure demonstrates the best heat storage/release performance. Compared to the pure phase change material (PCM) structure, heat storage and release time are reduced by 61.6% and 82%, respectively, while the average temperature response during the heat storage and release process improves by 122.4% and 429.8%.
Numerical Investigation on Overall Cooling Effectiveness of Narrow-Channel Double-Wall Cooling
Authors: Xu Guangyao , Du Qiang , Xu Qingzong , Li Hongye , Liu Haoyang
Published: April 2024

In the double-wall cooling of turbine blades, coolant migration can lead to uneven flow distribution, which, in severe cases, can cause hot gas intrusion into the film holes, affecting the lifespan of the blade. To mitigate the negative influence of coolant migration, this study proposes a novel double-wall system called the narrow-channel double-wall cooling (NCDW) system, where thin walls are arranged inside the internal channel of double-wall cooling to achieve a more balanced coolant distribution for film holes. However, the addition of thin walls alters the flow and heat transfer distributions within the double-wall structure, ultimately affecting the overall cooling effectiveness. Therefore, numerical methods are employed in this study to analyze the flow distribution characteristics, overall cooling effectiveness, and internal heat transfer characteristics of the narrow-channel double-wall cooling. The numerical results demonstrate that narrow-channel double-wall cooling, with or without pin fins, significantly improves the uneven mass flow distribution in the film holes while maintaining an overall cooling effectiveness that is comparable to that of the double-wall effusion cooling (DWEC) system. It is worth noting that although the overall cooling effectiveness difference is slight, there are significant differences in the internal-heat-transfer characteristics between the two double-wall cooling systems. Additionally, the study discusses the influence of narrow wall thickness on the overall cooling effectiveness and flow distributions, revealing that a thinner wall can lead to higher overall cooling effectiveness in narrow-channel double-wall cooling.
Extended Neumann's Solution Accounting for Rayleigh–Bénard Convection in the Melt Layer of a Phase Change Material
Authors: Sun Haochen , Atkins Michael David , Kang Kiju , Lu Tian Jian , Kim Tongbeum
Published: April 2024

Neumann's solution has been perceived to be inapplicable for the Stefan problem when Rayleigh–Bénard (R–B) convection exists. Yet, this article challenges this perception by demonstrating the applicability of Neumann's solution in the context of R–B convection. The temporal, countergravitational progression of a liquid–solid interface is distinctively attributed by R–B convection, sequentially transforming from diffusive to convective state as the melt phase thickens. We thus incorporate a lumped parameter, “convective conductivity” that accounts for the distinctive temporal thickening of the melt phase and replaces “stagnant thermal conductivity” in Neumann's solution. Thus, the extended Neumann's solution that includes R–B convection, enables the temporal progression of the liquid–solid interface to be precisely determined for quasi-steady phase transition.
Transient Heat Transfer to Rolling or Sliding Drops on Inclined Heated Superhydrophobic Surfaces
Authors: Furner Joseph , Maynes Daniel , Iverson Brian , Crockett Julie
Published: April 2024

The thermal transport to drops that roll or slide down heated superhydrophobic surfaces is explored. High-speed infrared imaging is performed to provide time-resolved measurement of the heat transfer to the drop. Data are obtained for drops moving along smooth hydrophobic and structured superhydrophobic surfaces. Both post and rib style structures with surface solid fractions ranging from 0.06 to 1.0 are considered. The inclination angle of the surfaces was varied from 10 deg to 25 deg, and the drop volume was varied from 12 to 40 μL. The measurements reveal that the drop speed is a strong function of both the inclination angle and the surface solid fraction. Further, the heat transfer is strongly affected by the surface solid fraction and the drop speed. Surfaces with low solid fraction result in a decrease in the initial heat transfer compared to the behavior observed for drops on a smooth surface. At the smallest solid fractions explored the reduction in heat transfer is nearly 80%. For rib structured surfaces, drop motion both along and perpendicular to the rib direction was considered and the heat transfer is larger for drops moving in the parallel rib configuration. This variation is likely caused by the increased rolling speed that prevails for the parallel rib case. Over 130 unique conditions were explored, and the results from all cases were used to develop correlations that enable prediction of the heat transfer to drops rolling or sliding down smooth hydrophobic and superhydrophobic surfaces.
Phage predation, disease severity, and pathogen genetic diversity in cholera patients
Authors: Madi Naïma , Cato Emilee T. , Abu Sayeed Md. , Creasy-Marrazzo Ashton , Cuénod Aline , Islam Kamrul , Khabir Md. Imam Ul , Bhuiyan Md. Taufiqur R. , Begum Yasmin A. , Freeman Emma , Vustepalli Anirudh , Brinkley Lindsey , Kamat Manasi , Bailey Laura S. , Basso Kari B. , Qadri Firdausi , Khan Ashraful I. , Shapiro B. Jesse , Nelson Eric J.
Published: April 2024

Despite an increasingly detailed picture of the molecular mechanisms of bacteriophage (phage)–bacterial interactions, we lack an understanding of how these interactions evolve and impact disease within patients. In this work, we report a year-long, nationwide study of diarrheal disease patients in Bangladesh. Among cholera patients, we quantified
Vibrio cholerae
(prey) and its virulent phages (predators) using metagenomics and quantitative polymerase chain reaction while accounting for antibiotic exposure using quantitative mass spectrometry. Virulent phage (ICP1) and antibiotics suppressed
V. cholerae
to varying degrees and were inversely associated with severe dehydration depending on resistance mechanisms. In the absence of antiphage defenses, predation was “effective,” with a high predator:prey ratio that correlated with increased genetic diversity among the prey. In the presence of antiphage defenses, predation was “ineffective,” with a lower predator:prey ratio that correlated with increased genetic diversity among the predators. Phage-bacteria coevolution within patients should therefore be considered in the deployment of phage-based therapies and diagnostics.
Interferon-
γ
and infectious diseases: Lessons and prospects
Authors: Casanova Jean-Laurent , MacMicking John D. , Nathan Carl F.
Published: April 2024

Infectious diseases continue to claim many lives. Prevention of morbidity and mortality from these diseases would benefit not just from new medicines and vaccines but also from a better understanding of what constitutes protective immunity. Among the major immune signals that mobilize host defense against infection is interferon-
γ
(IFN-
γ
), a protein secreted by lymphocytes. Forty years ago, IFN-
γ
was identified as a macrophage-activating factor, and, in recent years, there has been a resurgent interest in IFN-
γ
biology and its role in human defense. Here we assess the current understanding of IFN-
γ
, revisit its designation as an “interferon,” and weigh its prospects as a therapeutic against globally pervasive microbial pathogens.
Drilling on the edge
Authors: Elliott Christian
Published: April 2024

To understand the glaciers holding back meters of sea level rise, climate scientists swoop in to extract ice from Antarctica’s remote west coast
Is everything everywhere? A hands-on activity to engage undergraduates with key concepts in quantitative microbial biogeography
Authors: Vandepol Natalie S. , Shade Ashley
Published: April 2024

The ubiquity and ease with which microbial cells disperse over space is a key concept in microbiology, especially in microbial ecology. The phenomenon prompted Baas Becking’s famous “everything is everywhere” statement that now acts as the null hypothesis in studies that test the dispersal limitation of microbial taxa. Despite covering the content in lectures, exam performance indicated that the concepts of dispersal and biogeography challenged undergraduate students in an upper-level Microbial Ecology course. Therefore, we iteratively designed a hands-on classroom activity to supplement the lecture content and reinforce fundamental microbial dispersal and biogeography concepts while also building quantitative reasoning and teamwork skills. In a class period soon after the lecture, the students formed three-to-five-person teams to engage in the activity, which included a hands-on dispersal simulation and worksheet to guide discussion. The simulation involved stepwise neutral immigration or emigration and then environmental selection on a random community of microbial taxa represented by craft poms. The students recorded the results at each step as microbial community data. A field guide was provided to identify the taxonomy based on the pom phenotype and a reference to each taxon’s preferred environmental niches. The worksheet guided a reflection of student observations during the simulation. It also sharpened quantitative thinking by prompting the students to summarize and visualize their and other teams’ microbial community data and then to compare the observed community distributions to the idealized expectation given only selection without dispersal. We found that the activity improved student performance on exam questions and general student satisfaction and comfort with the biogeography concepts. Activity instructions and a list of needed materials are included for instructors to reproduce for their classrooms.
Early automated cerebral edema assessment following endovascular therapy: impact on stroke outcome
Authors: Guasch-Jiménez Marina , Dhar Rajat , Kumar Atul , Cifarelli Julien , Ezcurra-Díaz Garbiñe , Lambea-Gil Álvaro , Ramos-Pachón Anna , Martínez-Domeño Alejandro , Prats-Sánchez Luis , Guisado-Alonso Daniel , Fernández-Cadenas Israel , Aguilera-Simón Ana , Marín Rebeca , Martínez-González José Pablo , Ortega-Quintanilla Joaquin , Fernández-Pérez Isabel , Avellaneda-Gómez Carla , Rodríguez-Pardo Jorge , de Celis Elena , Moniche Francisco , Freijo María del Mar , Cortijo Elisa , Trillo Santiago , Camps-Renom Pol , Martí-Fábregas Joan
Published: April 2024

Background

Cerebral edema (CED) is associated with poorer outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). The aim of the study was to investigate the factors contributing to greater early CED formation in patients with AIS who underwent endovascular therapy (EVT) and its association with functional outcome.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter cohort study of patients with an anterior circulation AIS undergoing EVT. The volume of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was extracted from baseline and 24-hour follow-up CT using an automated algorithm. The severity of CED was quantified by the percentage reduction in CSF volume between CT scans (∆CSF). The primary endpoint was a shift towards an unfavorable outcome, assessed by modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 months. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression analyses were performed. The ∆CSF threshold that predicted unfavorable outcome was selected using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

We analyzed 201 patients (mean age 72.7 years, 47.8% women) in whom CED was assessable for 85.6%. Higher systolic blood pressure during EVT and failure to achieve modified Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) 3 were found to be independent predictors of greater CED. ∆CSF was independently associated with the probability of a one-point worsening in the mRS score (common odds ratio (cOR) 1.05, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.08) after adjusting for age, baseline mRS, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and number of passes. Displacement of more than 25% of CSF was associated with an unfavorable outcome (OR 6.09, 95% CI 3.01 to 12.33) and mortality (OR 6.72, 95% CI 2.94 to 15.32).

Conclusions

Early CED formation in patients undergoing EVT was affected by higher blood pressure and incomplete reperfusion. The extent of early CED, measured by automated ∆CSF, was associated with worse outcomes.
Theoretical study of low-lying electronic states spectra and transition properties of BeS molecule
Authors: Sun Shan , Gao Yufeng , Zhu Zunlue
Published: April 2024

There are only limited theoretical results published on the transition properties of the X1Σ+, A1Π, B1Σ+, C1Δ, D1Σ−, E1Δ, a3Π, b3Σ+, and c3Δ states of BeS, and even some of the states have no theoretical and experimental reports on the relevant aspects of these transitions. Therefore, we derived these transition properties in this study. The potential energy curves of X1Σ+, A1Π, B1Σ+, C1Δ, D1Σ−, E1Δ, a3Π, b3Σ+, c3Δ, d3Σ−, and e3Σ− states of the BeS molecule with their Ω states and the transition dipole moments between them were calculated by the complete active space self-consistent field method, followed by the internally contracted multireference configuration interaction method. For the accurate computation of the transition properties, scalar relativistic corrections and core–valence correlation were considered. The radiative lifetimes were approximately 10−6 s for the A1Π and b3Σ+ states, 10−7 s for the E1Δ state, 10−7–10−8 s for the C1Δ and D1Σ− states, and 10−8 s for the B1Σ+, c3Δ, and e3Σ− states. The transition properties of the seven Ω states generated by the X1Σ+, A1Π, B1Σ+, and a3Π electronic states, including several electric dipole-forbidden transitions were researched. In particular, the B1Σ+ 0+–X1Σ+ 0+, B1Σ+ 0+–A1Π1, and A1Π1–X1Σ+ 0+ systems have strong transitions. In this paper, the radiative lifetimes of A1Π1, B1Σ+ 0+, a3Π0−, a3Π0+, and a3Π1 electronic states were also computed. For the A1Π1, B1Σ+ 0+, and a3Π1 states, the distribution of the radiation lifetime with the rotational angular momentum quantum number J at 0 ≤ υ ≤ 15 and J ≤ 70 was evaluated. It is expected that the outcome of the calculations in this paper can contribute some meaningful guidelines for conducting further theoretical and experimental investigations.
An Intelligent Financial Investment Decision Model Based on Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Guo Qi , Li Bohan
Published: April 2024

Financial investigation decision is a complex affair that highly relies on expert knowledge. In the era of big data, it remains practical to make intelligent financial investigation decisions via computing technology. As a consequence, this work introduces reinforcement learning to search for effective decision schemes that are adaptive to the diverse financial environment. Therefore, an intelligent financial investment decision model based on multi-agent reinforcement learning is proposed in this paper. First, the long short-term memory (LSTM) model is utilized to strengthen financial investment data. Then, the hidden Markov model (HMM) is utilized to make a preliminary judgment on financial investment strategy. Next, a multi-agent deep deterministic policy gradient (MADDPG) is employed to set the goal of agent reinforcement and determine decision indicators based on the financial market environment. Multiple agents (investors) form a cooperative strategy through learning and interaction to achieve the optimal investment decision in the financial market. The experimental results on realistic data indicate that the proposal can play an important role in investment decision-making.